What better way to celebrate the Chinese lunar calendar than with a watch that glorifies the lunar complication? Arnold & Son has introduced two models with striking moonphase complications that are inspired by the mythical zodiac creature to commemorate this prosperous year ahead. The Luna Magna has a 3D lunar orb that comes in precious onyx or pietersite, half covered in gold, around which a micro sculpture of a five-clawed imperial dragon is positioned on the dial. Above the lunar orb lies the two-hand time display on a white Grand Feu enamel dial housed in a rose gold case.
Of course, the Perpetual Moon 41.5 is another watch that also highlights the moonphase complication, this time with an oversized moon that’s clad in luminous paint slowly traversing the upper half of the dial. On this model, Arnold & Son has placed an engraving of a five-clawed dragon as well, soaring in the sky below the glowing moon with a miniature painting of stone pines. The dial of this watch is in black or blue aventurine, a reference to the nighttime sky and the passage of the Moon over the ecliptic. Each of these watches is limited to just eight pieces; enquire at any Sincere Haute Horlogerie boutique to find out if they are still available.
Bell & Ross is celebrating the Year of the Dragon with an artistic interpretation of the theme that’s rather iconic. The BR 05 Artline Dragon has a big personality that rests on the time-and-date model of the urban collection, featuring a laser engraving that covers every inch of the watch’s surface, from the case and dial to the integrated bracelet. Rather than stick with the more traditional interpretations of the dragon, it’s inspired by tattoo art as well as classic Chinese engraving techniques in its design.
Using motifs that include the Sun and Moon, flora and the swallow, the watchmaker has created a visual design that encompasses the entire watch.
This design is done using laser engraving before assembly, yet the dragon’s features and body are perfectly aligned from the dial to the bezel, end links, and bracelet. Even the crown protectors of the BR 05 Artline Dragon are laser-engraved, while the chamfered surfaces are polished. The design is so precise that there is no distortion of the image, even when viewed from different angles.
The 40mm steel watch is limited to just 99 pieces and is powered by Bell & Ross’ BR-CAL.321 self-winding movement with a 54-hour power reserve. The three hand display features a unique design with sinuous hands that blend into the dragon motif; it’s clever, creative, and definitely stands out.
A dozen years ago, Blancpain introduced a non-Gregorian calendar that followed the Chinese lunar calendar system. This was a complex development that took
