Since its release in 1957, the Hamilton Ventura has been a model of design and watchmaking, demonstrating the extraordinary power of innovation and futurism. As the Year of the Dragon approaches, Hamilton Ventura opens a new chapter in its legend, featuring an unconventional and bold skeleton dragon dial design that celebrates the prestige and strength symbolized by the legendary creature.
The Dragon has many beautiful meanings in Eastern culture, in addition to strength and luck; it also represents a strong enterprising spirit, so it is often a symbol of opportunities and success. As an icon of futuristic invention for more than a half-century, the Hamilton Ventura is the perfect combination of esthetic and technical ingenuity.
Today, as the Year of the Dragon approaches, our new Ventura Dragon Skeleton starts a new chapter of the revolutionary story, with an unconventional and bold skeleton dragon face design on the dial, paying tribute to the dragon’s spirit and celebrating good fortune for everyone.
The striking cutaways on the dial reveal a dragon’s face full of power and courage. The dragon’s face is 90° clockwise on the dial, which perfectly fits the Ventura’s iconic and avant-garde, geometric shield shape.
The Ventura Dragon Skeleton is available in two impressive versions. The first features a rose gold PVD coated case and black skeleton dial, framing the dragon’s piercing green eyes. The second model highlights the dragon in black PVD with flaming red eyes. A dramatic red second hand sweeps across the all-black dragon’s face, as if its gathered energy is about to be released.
Under the dial beats the H-10-S movement with an 80-hour power reserve, an equally uncompromising piece of engineering, with a Nivachron™ balance spring for better resistance against magnetic fields, temperature variation and shocks.
The sapphire glass with anti-reflective coating and the white Super-LumiNova® coated hour and minute hands makes the watch fit to wear from day to night, while the black rubber strap with a 3D dragon scale pattern adds the finishing touch to this bold watch.
As a symbol of luck and strength, the Ventura Dragon Skeleton will help you push the boundaries of every opportunity.
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Hamilton Ventura opens a new chapter in its legend featuring an unconventional and bold skeleton dragon face design that celebrates the prestige and strength symbolized by the dragon #hamiltonwatch
ABOUT HAMILTON
Founded in Lancaster, Pennsylvania, in 1892, Hamilton creates watches with a unique balance of authenticity and innovation. Its timepieces synchronized the first railroads and kept time for aviation pioneers and U.S. soldiers. The watchmaker of filmmakers, Hamilton watches have appeared in more than 500 movies and TV shows, with custom pieces playing a pivotal role in several Hollywood blockbusters. Striving to shape authentic characters and storylines through its timepieces, Hamilton designed the first branded watch to be featured in a video game. With a continued commitment to craftsmanship and accuracy, Hamilton launched the world’s first electric watch in 1957 and the first LED digital watch in 1970. A member of the Swatch Group, the global leader in watch manufacturing and distribution, Hamilton’s current collections combine its American spirit with true Swiss precision.
An unexplained watchmaking phenomenon has entered our atmosphere. ZENITH unveils an unprecedented and conceptual take on its staple 1/100th of a second chronograph, reimagined as a mirroring camouflage: Meet the DEFY Extreme Mirror.
The ultimate ultramodern camouflage watch has arrived. A monolithic object that reflects all light and colours – yet has no colours of its own. A form so geometrically outstanding but finished in such a way that it blends right in with its surroundings. An engine that operates at such a high-frequency rate, it’s nothing short of astounding. The DEFY Extreme line is not only inspired by the elements but also built to adapt and blend into them. With the DEFY Extreme Mirror, ZENITH is exploring a totally new expression of its most rugged chronograph to date that seemingly blends reality and our perception of our surroundings.
Shrouded in mystery and intrigue, the DEFY Extreme Mirror evokes some kind of UFO that has masked its arrival on our planet. With its fully mirror-polished metal exterior, the earth, the sky and the entire horizon are reflected without distortion. Paradoxically, the DEFY Extreme Mirror is at once eye-catching and stealthy. It doesn’t attempt to hide in its surroundings but blends in completely by reflecting it entirely from its gleaming surface. The highly angular case, as well as its integrated bracelet, are crafted in stainless steel, which are then immaculately mirror-polished all over for a chrome-like appearance.
And it’s not just the case that’s mirrored. The open multi-layered dial features a central element in sapphire crystal with a metallic mirrored finish that’s translucent yet reflective. The 1/100th of a second chronograph scale features satin-brushed metallic elements, keeping the dial easy to read while maintaining the fluid, all-metal theme.
Partially visible through the open dial as well as the sapphire case back is the world’s fastest automatic high-frequency chronograph calibre in production, offering 1/100th of a second time measurements by means of two independent escapements beating at the rates of 5Hz (36’000 VpH) for the timekeeping part and 50Hz (360’000 VpH) for the chronograph function. For the DEFY Extreme Mirror, the star-shaped winding rotor is finished in a silvery-grey metallic tone to match the case and dial elements.
Completing the look of this intriguing piece are the supplied durable black Velcro strap and rubber strap, which can be easily swapped with the steel bracelet using the quick strap-change mechanism on the back of the case.
The DEFY Extreme Mirror is available at ZENITH physical and online boutiques as well as authorized retailers around the world.
ZENITH: TIME TO REACH YOUR STAR.
ZENITH exists to inspire individuals to pursue their dreams and make them come true – against all odds. Since its establishment in 1865, ZENITH became the first vertically integrated Swiss watch manufacture, and its watches have accompanied extraordinary figures that dreamt big and strived to achieve the impossible – from Louis Blériot’s history-making flight across the English Channel to Felix Baumgartner’s record-setting stratospheric free-fall jump. Zenith is also highlighting visionary and trailblazing women by celebrating their accomplishments and creating the DREAMHERS platform where women share their experiences and inspire others to fulfil their dreams.
With innovation as its guiding star, ZENITH exclusively features in-house developed and manufactured movements in all its watches. Since the creation of the El Primero in 1969, the world’s first automatic chronograph calibre, ZENITH has gone on to master high-frequency precision and offers time measurements in fractions of a second, including 1/10th of a second in the Chronomaster collection and 1/100th of a second in the DEFY collection. Because innovation is synonymous with responsibility, the ZENITH HORIZ-ON initiative affirms the brand’s commitments to inclusion & diversity, sustainability and employee wellbeing. ZENITH has been shaping the future of Swiss watchmaking since 1865, accompanying those who dare to challenge themselves and reach new heights. The time to reach your star is now.
HUBLOT AND AHMED SEDDIQI & SONS UNVEIL TWO EXCLUSIVE SPECIAL EDITION TIMEPIECES IN COLLABORATION WITH CALLIGRAPHY ARTIST WISSAM SHAWKAT
In honour of the 6th biannual Dubai Watch Week exhibition, Hublot and partner Ahmed Seddiqi & Sons were thrilled to announce the release of two special edition Classic Fusion Black Magic Dubai Watch Week pieces, designed in collaboration with award-winning calligraphy artist Wissam Shawkat. Shawkat’s expertise in creating art that transcends boundaries and resonates with diverse audiences aligns perfectly with Hublot’s commitment to innovation and artistic expression.
We are excited to be a part of Dubai Watch Week, together with our partner Ahmed Seddiqi & Sons and releasing two exceptional special-edition timepieces. Following Hublot’s love for the world of art, we are pleased to reveal a special collaboration to resonate Hublot’s interpretation of Arabic heritage & culture – adding a great touch to the Art of Fusion. – RICARDO GUADALUPE HUBLOT CEO
The Hublot Classic Fusion collection is very well-liked among our Emirati clients, and we are very pleased to dedicate two special edition timepieces for them. We promised to provide excellent and culturally-relevant luxury alongside unique creativity; we are confident that these timepieces – perfect for men & women – will be enjoyed and sought after. – DAVID TEDESCHI HUBLOT REGIONAL DIRECTOR LATIN AMERICA, MIDDLE EAST & AFRICA
We are excited to commemorate these two extraordinary timepieces with Hublot, a symbol of our dedication to our clients, Hublot, and Dubai Watch Week. This collaboration is a tribute to our rich heritage and culture, representing unique artistic techniques in partnership with the incredibly talented artist, Wissam Shawkat. – MOHAMMED ABDULMAGIED SEDDIQI AHMED SEDDIQI & SONS, CHIEF COMMERCIAL OFFICER
It is an honour to be collaborating with Hublot and to get the opportunity to showcase my take on Arabian heritage infused into luxury watchmaking. Inspired by my deeply rooted appreciation for our language and culture, it is a joyous experience to draw inspiration from various words & phrases and to design two exquisite timepieces. – WISSAM SHAWKAT
Paying homage to Arabian heritage, the two timepieces have been designed with sourced inspiration from deeply rooted passion for heritage and culture – drawing inspiration from various phrases and words from the Arabic language. Both timepieces feature exquisite calligraphy inside their dials, a true testament to the fusion of art with exceptional watchmaking. The calligraphy, meticulously created by the celebrated artist Wissam Shawkat, introduces vibrant and contrasting colors that beautifully complement the sleek black cases and dials. The calligraphy reads “Al Zaman” and “Al Waqt” – both words meaning time in Arabic – to symbolize the fusion between the watch brand, Arabian culture, and calligraphy. The rich, bright colours set against the black background create an eye-catching and distinctive aesthetic that embodies the spirit of Dubai.
The Classic Fusion Black Magic Dubai Watch Week sits in a 42-mm case with a matching Hublot black ceramic bezel featuring a unique twist in the dial. Highlighting Arabic calligraphy in rich bright orange, blue, green, and red, the mechanics of the HUB1110 self-winding movement and its 42-hour power reserve mark the time. The alligator strap with a black steel deployant buckle extenuates further the robust contrast between the flushed calligraphy and black ceramic. Encased is Wissam Shawkat’s stunning calligraphy, which weaves its way around the dial, reminiscent of the mesmerizing landscapes of Dubai’s dunes and urban skyline.
For those seeking a touch of opulence, the Classic Fusion Black Magic Diamonds Dubai Watch Week 38-mm elevates the experience with the addition of 36 black brilliant-cut diamonds set on the polished black anodized aluminium bezel. Wissam Shawkat’s calligraphy in this timepiece is a true work of art, with the sparkling diamonds accentuating every curve and stroke, showcasing the perfect synergy between horology and artistic expression.
These calligraphic timepieces are sure to strike their mark on Dubai Watch Week and on the wrist!
AHMED SEDDIQI & SONS
Ahmed Seddiqi & Sons, established in 1950, is the leading luxury watch and jewellery retailer in the UAE. With a customer centric approach at its core, the company offers an unmatched luxury retail experience with a curated collection of over 80 brands across over 50 locations. Ahmed Seddiqi & Sons is recognised as a pioneer amongst retailers in the region, led by its commitment to service excellence, horology expertise, portfolio curation, and creating unique experiences.
WISSAM SHAWKAT – BIOGRAPHY
Wissam Shawkat is an Award-Winning Calligraphy artist and designer, specialized in letter forms, Born in 1974 in Basra (Iraq), he was first introduced to Arabic calligraphy at the age of 10, it was the form of four letters from the Arabic alphabet written across a school blackboard that started him on a journey that has shaped him both in early years and adulthood. Spurred on by supportive parents, he became his own tutor.
His teen summers were spent lettering for a local sign shop before he began studying for a degree in Civil Engineering at Basra University, graduating in 1996. The life as a Civil Engineer, though, was not Shawkat’s destiny and the point where his affinity for letterforms would wait no longer quickly came. In recent years, Shawkat has become known for a new calligraphic style, Al Wissam, which references several traditional scripts bringing them together with modern design.
He has received numerous prizes for his calligraphy and has participated as both an artist and committee member at multiple editions of the local and International Calligraphy Exhibitions.
He is based in Dubai, where he is engaged full-time as an artist, designer and Arabic typographer. His work is regularly featured in books on Arabic calligraphy and typography, His work is found in private collections, as well as museum collections around the world.
HUBLOT
Hublot is a Swiss watch manufacturer founded in 1980 and based in Nyon. For its first ever timepiece, this fundamentally disruptive company combined gold with a rubber strap in a case with a design inspired by a ship’s porthole (hublot in French). Thus, the Art of Fusion was born, blending tradition, innovation, craftsmanship, worlds and talents. It became the brand’s aesthetic and technical signature.
This identity was strengthened in 2005 with the Big Bang, which attested to an unrivalled know-how in terms of complications, manufacture movements and state-of-the-art materials. Carbon, titanium, ceramic and sapphire have been developed on this model to technical extremes.
This ground-breaking, high-quality approach to watchmaking is summed up in its philosophy ‘Be First, Unique and Different.’ It gradually led to other collections with innovative designs: Classic Fusion, Spirit of Big Bang, Square Bang and Manufacture Pieces. These draw on high levels of craftsmanship, both in terms of the materials so dear to Hublot (such as Magic Gold, brightly-coloured ceramics and sapphires) and its manufacture movements (Unico chronograph, Meca-10 and large complications such as the Tourbillon, the Cathedral Minute Repeater and the specific Manufacture Pieces movements).
Hublot’s world extends to powerful partnerships including football. ‘Hublot Loves Football’ has become the slogan at the world’s biggest sporting events (such as the FIFA World CupTM, Premier League, UEFA Champions League, UEFA EUROTM) and through its ambassadors. This love of football continues in art, design, music, sport, fine dining and sailing. Lastly, Hublot’s implication in joint environmental projects with SORAI and Polar Pod reflects its concern for the issues of the day.
Almost 130 boutiques around the world share Hublot’s fervour and values, alongside the Hublot.com ecommerce site.
Available in a limited edition of 25 pieces, this exceptional timepiece features a sapphire case with a unique faceted design – a technical feat showcasing modern Haute Horlogerie expertise.
TRANSPARENCY: A FEAT OF EXPERTISE
The completely transparent 45-mm case is made from sapphire, a composite which is as hard and durable as diamond. The architecture of the watch makes the skull appear to float weightlessly inside the case. The see-through effect continues on the wrist with a transparent silicone strap.
HAUTE HORLOGERIE AUTOMATON ANIMATION
Bell & Ross has equipped the BR 01 CYBER SKULL SAPPHIRE with a hand-wound movement designed entirely by the manufacture: the calibre BR-CAL.209. The automaton movement activates the jaw which opens and appears to snigger when the spring is being wound. Behind the jaw lies the barrel, which is revealed when the skull grins. Making up the brain of this skull – which has finally come to life – the anthracite balance wheel reveals its oscillations. As it beats, it serves to echo the mechanical heart of the watch.
ICE BLUE
A bold colour not often seen in Haute Horlogerie, the steel blue here is made from galvanised brass and blue PVD. “”Like a faceted iceberg, the transparency of the sapphire case pairs perfectly with the icy tone of the sky-blue colour””, explains Bruno Belamich, Bell & Ross co-founder and Creative Director.
TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS
MOVEMENT
Calibre BR-CAL.209. Manufacture. Hand-wound mechanical . Skeletonised, rhodium-plated main plate and bridges. 21 jewels. 28,800 vph. Incabloc shock protection system. 48-hour power reserve.
FUNCTIONS
Hours and minutes. Moving skull when wound by hand.
CASE
Length 43.50 mm, width 45 mm. Sapphire. Faceted polished steel crown. Sapphire case back.
DIAL
Skeletonised faceted sapphire. Blue anodized steel skull. Balance at 12 o’clock.
