Hublot continues it’s tradition of celebrating the zodiac animals of the Chinese lunisolar calendar in creative and surprising ways with the Spirit of Big Bang Year of the Snake.
A symbol associated with wisdom, charm and transformation, the snake holds a special place in the Chinese zodiac system. Since 2016, Hublot has celebrated each Chinese new year with an artfully rendered special edition of the Spirit of Big Bang. Reinterpreting these symbolic animals in contemporary and unexpected ways, Hublot has crafted an ornate rendition of the snake that extends from the dial to the case and even the strap in the Spirit of Big Bang Year of the Snake, a limited edition of 88 pieces.
The Spirit of Big Bang’s signature open dial revealing the inner working of the chronograph movement is inhabited by a golden snake. Striking and three-dimensional, the gold-plated snake is crafted with lifelike details that have been engraved with astounding precision thanks to the latest advancements in laser technologies. Carefully positioned as if slithering around the chronograph’s three counters, the serpent immediately catches the eye and intrigues.
The black barrel-shaped ceramic case features Hublot’s patented One-Click strap changing mechanism, and is topped by a screwed ceramic bezel that is engraved to reveal a pattern of snake scales. This pattern extends to the black rubber strap, which has a uniquely velvet finish with a slight shimmer, even though it is entirely made of a single piece of rubber with an innovative embossing technique.
The Spirit of Big Bang Year of the Snake is powered by the Hublot automatic skeleton chronograph calibre HUB4700, which ia s modernized descendant of the historic and highly prized El Primero, considered the first Swiss high-frequency integrated chronograph calibre ever made. Visible from both the open dial and sapphire display back, the movement hosts a number of technical innovations and advancements compared to the original from 1969, including a low-friction silicon escape wheel.A limited edition of 88 pieces, the Spirit of Big Bang Year of the Snake is available at Hublot boutiques and authorized retailers around the world.
SPIRIT OF BIG BANG YEAR OF THE SNAKE
REFERENCE: 642.CI.0180.RX.CNY25
Limited to 88 pieces
CASE: Microblasted and Polished Black Ceramic
Diameter: 42 MM
Thickness: 14.1 MM
Water resistance: 10 ATM / 100 M
CASEBACK: Microblasted and Polished Black Ceramic
BEZEL: Microblasted and Polished Black ceramic
Engraved with Snake Skin Texture
DIAL: Sapphire Crystal with Gold-plated Snake Applique
MOVEMENT: HUB4700 Self-winding Skeleton Chronograph
Frequency (HZ): 5 (36’000 A/H)
Power reserve (hours): 50
Number of components : 278
Jewels : 31
STRAP AND CLASP:Black Rubber with Snake Skin Texture Black Ceramic and Black-plated
Titanium Deployant Buckle
New All Black release: black diamonds tattooed into monochrome geometry.
With the Spirit of Big Bang Sang Bleu All Black Pavé, Swiss tattoo artist Maxime Plescia-Buchi engraves Hublot’s distinctive codes in black ink, merging Hublot’s revolutionary All Black concept, debuted in 2006, with the signature barrel-shaped Spirit of Big Bang case.
This new All Black release marks the latest evolution of their joint creative journey since 2016. Hublot x Sang Bleu – since 2016 Hublot and Maxime Plescia-Buchi, founder of Sang Bleu, have brought tattoo artistry into the world of high horology, transforming tattoo art into wearable timepieces. Their partnership blends intricate geometric designs with Hublot’s technical craftsmanship and materials. Since their first collaboration in 2016, they
have released over a dozen designs, starting with the Big Bang Sang Bleu in 2016, followed by a second edition in 2019, and the Spirit of Big Bang Sang Bleu in 2023.
Spirit of Big Bang Sang Bleu All Black Pavé
Hublot’s monochromatic All Black “invisible visibility” concept has revolutionized watch design since 2006, introducing a new approach where aesthetics take precedence over immediate readability. By removing color contrasts and emphasizing varying shades of black through innovative materials, textures, and shapes, this black-on-black design has become a striking expression of understated luxury for nearly two decades. The latest All Black comes in the Spirit of Big Bang Sang Bleu All Black Pavé. Limited to just 200 pieces, this edition features a 42mm polished black-plated case adorned with 180 black diamonds, totaling approximately 2.4 carats. Maxime Plescia-Buchi’s iconic tattoo artistry, defined by sharp lines and intricate geometric patterns, gives the watch its distinctive three-dimensional design. The engraved geometry flows from the case to the bezel, adding depth and texture.
Powered by the HUB4700 Self-winding Skeleton
Chronograph movement, the watch boasts a 50-hour power reserve. Paired with a black rubber strap and a black ceramic and titanium folding clasp. The Spirit of Big Bang Sang Bleu All Black Pavé will make its debut in China, three months ahead of its global release.
“The Hublot x Sang Bleu creations are the ink of time, carving my artistic vision in a new dimension: time permanently engraved into the geometry of watches. My collaboration with Hublot is like an architectural project; the Spirit of Big Bang collection represents the third wall of our shared structure, blending geometric aesthetics with enhanced ergonomics for a unique design. The black-diamond tattoo adorning the Spirit of Big Bang Sang Bleu All Black Pavé add captivating depth to my sharp lines and intricate shapes, reinforcing the three-dimensional design of this tonneau-shaped watch and making it truly unique.” MAXIME PLESCIA-BUCHI-SANG BLEU FOUNDER, HUBLOT AMBASSADOR
“Enduring collaborations define us at Hublot. Our eight-year creative synergy with Maxime Plescia-Buchi has produced unique models fusing geometric design, artistic precision, and profound symbolism – inking the essence of time into watches. Together, we continually push the boundaries of design and craftsmanship, showcasing our innovative spirit and commitment to what makes Hublot unique. From the All Black to the Tonneau-Shape revolutions, our collaboration redefines identity, spatial design and architectural dimension through the distinct geometry and symmetry of Sang Bleu, ensuring our watch designs remain unique.” JULIEN TORNARE-HUBLOT CEO
SPIRIT OF BIG BANG SANG BLEU ALL BLACK PAVÉ
REFERENCE: 648.CX.0114.RX.1600.MXM24
CASE
Polished Black-plated set with 80
Black Diamonds
Diameter: 42 mm
Thickness: 15.7 mm
Water Resistant: 10 ATM / 100 M
CASE BACK
Polished Black Ceramic
BEZEL
Polished Black-plated set
with 100 black diamonds
DIAL
Sapphire Crystal
MOVEMENT
HUB4700 Self-winding Skeleton Chronograph
Frequency (Hz): 5 (36’000 A/H)
Power reserve: 50 hours
Number of components: 278
Jewels: 31
STRAP AND BUCKLE
Strap: Black Smooth Rubber
Clasp: Black Ceramic and Black-plated Titanium Deployant Buckle
Hublot introduces the Spirit of Big Bang SORAI, a 30-piece limited-edition created in support of SORAI, the conservation organisation founded by former international cricketer, conservationist and Hublot Ambassador Kevin Pietersen.
Hublot continues its partnership with SORAI – Save Our Rhinos Africa and India – the rhino conservation organisation founded by former international cricketer and Hublot ambassador Kevin Pietersen. Hublot is United for Change, believing that the impact of the collective is essential in bringing the change that will conserve and protect our planet for future generations. The rhino is still threatened with extinction, impacting the stability of the 5 keystone species that play a crucial role in the safekeeping of our ecosystem and environment. Hublot introduces the Spirit of Big Bang SORAI, a 30-piece limited-edition of the iconic tonneau-shaped hand-wound tourbillon created in support of SORAI’s mission. This is the fourth Hublot x SORAI watch and as before, part of the proceeds from sales of the watch will be donated to the organisation as it continues the fight to protect the rhino.
Even though the tireless activities of SORAI and its partners have significantly increased awareness of the threat to the rhino and made a powerful contribution to the preservation of the species, the crisis continues. According to the WWF, half a million rhinos roamed Africa and Asia at the beginning of the 20th century, a figure that has now dropped to just 27,000 as the dual problems of poaching and habitat loss continue to pose an existential threat to rhino and other keystone wildlife species. The black, Javan, and Sumatran rhino are all listed as critically endangered.
But by being United for Change, there is good news. Conservation programmes such as those supported by SORAI have helped increase the population of Indian rhinos from around 200 at the turn of the 20th century to around 4,000 today, while black rhinos have doubled in number over the past two decades. Hublot is proud to support SORAI as it empowers conservation agencies to continue this work and bring positive change.
Tackling the rhino crisis together
SORAI is a socially conscious enterprise founded in 2018 by former England cricket captain and conservationist Kevin Pietersen, who was born in South Africa and grew up with a passion for the natural world. SORAI’s mission is to unite complementary communities, businesses and actors to ensure that Africa and India’s keystone species survive and thrive in the world – forever.
Among the many organisations and projects funded by SORAI is Care for Wild in South Africa, a grassroots organisation that rescues and cares for abandoned, injured or orphaned endangered species, particularly rhino. Rhino are poached for the value of their horn, which in some countries is still believed to have medicinal or spiritual value, despite being made of keratin, a protein that also forms the basis of our hair and nails. Poaching is a highly complex problem fuelled by poverty and the international criminal network, and much of SORAI’s vision is to support pioneering anti-poaching education and enforcement programmes. These are problems for which there is no quick fix, but SORAI is in it for the long haul, enabled
by the support of businesses such as Hublot.
“First of all, I want to thank Hublot for continuing to support SORAI and our mission to conserve and protect the world’s rhino population. It really does make a difference. The challenge wildlife conservation teams face on the ground is sadly still hugely challenging and often incredibly dangerous. It’s a battle out there as conservationists and park rangers tackle poachers and combat the illegal trade of rhino horn. We have to go on working together to educate people about how important the rhino is to the environment and to make sure they know that rhino horn has no medicinal value – no more than fingernails. We’re doing everything we can to support those brave men and women at the front line, which wouldn’t be possible without Hublot’s backing. Donations from sales of these beautiful watches make a tangible difference to combating poaching, developing and implementing new technologies and raising awareness of the threat to this magnificent animal. I want everyone who buys this new watch to understand the power of their contribution and to know they did something to empower positive change. Thank you so much.” KEVIN PIETERSEN FOUNDER OF SORAI, HUBLOT AMBASSADOR FORMER INTERNATIONAL CRICKETER
Every minute counts: time for change
The Hublot Spirit of Big Bang SORAI is the fourth watch created in support of SORAI, and the first Spirit of Big Bang. Its 42mm case is cast in the same micro-blasted and polished “warm grey” ceramic created by Hublot for SORAI to capture the distinctive colour of a rhino’s skin and first seen in the Big Bang Unico SORAI 2023. The watch is set on a grey fabric strap and supplied with a second strap in black rubber with a striking grey and beige camouflage pattern. Powering the watch is the HUB6020 Manufacture calibre, a hand-wound, skeletonised tourbillon with a five-day power reserve. It provides the watch with an asymmetrical display that sits poised between two sapphire crystals and that delicately balances a time display at 3 o’clock and a power reserve indicator between 8 and 9 o’clock. The Spirit of Big Bang SORAI will be limited to 30 pieces.
Hublot’s ambition is to leverage its global reach and this new watch to ignite critical conversations around the rhino and environmental issues, and to inspire a new generation of conservationists. By being United for Change and harnessing the impact of the collective, Hublot believes that together we can forge a path to a better future.
SPIRIT OF BIG BANG TOURBILLON SORAI 645.FX.8020.NR.SOA24
LIMITED EDITION
Size 42 MM
Thickness 13.25 MM
Water Resistance 3 ATM / 30 M
CASE
Microblasted and Polished Grey ceramic
Screw: Black plated H-Shaped polished and microblasted Titanium
Crown: Polished and microblasted Black plated Titanium with black Overmolded with rubber
Case back: Microblasted and Polished Grey Ceramic
BEZEL
Microblasted and Polished Grey Ceramic
DIAL
Sapphire Crystal
HANDS
Grey varnished matt
MOVEMENT
HUB6020: Manufacture Manual winding Power Reserve Skeleton Tourbillon Movement
Thickness: 4 mm
Diameter: 31.65 x 33.30
Number of components 183
Jewels: 25
Frequency (HZ): 3 (21’600 A/H)
Power reserve (hours): 115
STRAP
First Bracelet: Grey Fabric with Velecro and Black Ceramic Sport Buckle Included
Additional Bracelet: Black Rubber with Camouflage Decor, Dark Grey, Light Grey and Beige
CLASP
Black ceramic and Black titane Deployant Buckle
Hublot’s continued dedication to crafting timepieces that transcend the ordinary embodies the brand’s ‘Be First, Unique, and Different philosophy.’ Let us delve into the realm of horological excellence and artistic innovation as Hublot unveils a tapestry of masterful timepieces and captivating collaborations.
MP-10 Tourbillon Weight Energy System
The Manufacture’s tenth MP revisits the fundamentals of watchmaking: no dial, hands or oscillating weight, instead a roller display, a circular power reserve and an inclined tourbillon automatic winding by two linear weights. The announcement of a new Manufacture Piece (MP) is always eagerly awaited at Hublot. This MP-10 Tourbillon Weight Energy System Titanium will be no exception. The piece is immediately arresting. With its rounded angles, sleek design and sapphire crystal of an unparalleled complexity, it houses a movement which is no less sophisticated. A fusion of form and substance. The mechanical and aesthetic power are inseparable – one of the key concepts guiding the MP collections. And at the point where they intersect, the Manufacture offers a bold reinvention of the classic watchmaking complications. These are avant-garde pieces which are resolutely disruptive in their movement, display and complications. But they are neither concepts nor exercises in style. Like all the other MPs, the MP-10 Tourbillon Weight Energy System Titanium is a complete, accomplished and practical watch that will soon adorn the wrists of a select few collectors.
Big Bang Unico Saxem Green
Hublot unveils the second shade of its revolutionary material, SAXEM. Closely allied to sapphire, SAXEM is equally resistant, yet offers even more luminosity. With cousins, you can tell they come from the same family but they do have distinctive differences. The same can be said for sapphire and SAXEM, their connection is clear as they come from the same Hublot lineage. The Manufacture in Nyon is credited with bringing them both into the 21st century, to the point of establishing them as hallmark materials. Even so, their profiles are quite distinct. Sapphire is made of aluminium oxide, to which metallic oxides are added to provide colour. In contrast, SAXEM is coloured with rare earth elements. Sapphire has a trigonal (three-sided) structure, while SAXEM has a cubic (four-sided) form. Chemical details? Maybe, but ever since Hublot established itself as an integrated Manufacture, R&D has been the key focus of its operations. This was true when the Nyon Manufacture was inaugurated in 2009, and, 15 years later, remains so today. The new Big Bang Unico Green SAXEM is further proof
Spirit of Big Bang 32mm Jewellery
Watchmaking and jewellery collide to create an enchanting match . Master gemsetters have worked their magic on these six 32-mm cases, enveloping them in light or transforming them into rainbows. These pieces are crafted in King Gold – the Manufacture’s 18K gold alloy, warmer than 5N gold – or stainless steel. Hublot has channelled its avant-garde and unconventional approach to create these stunning variations with a feminine touch. With these fully-set Spirit of Big Bang Jewellery pieces, draped in their precious finery, time becomes incandescent. The slim design embodies a feminine spirit which enhances the brilliance of its setting. The character of the Big Bang is fused with the sophistication of the gemstones, transforming the Spirit of Big Bang into a sparkling piece of jewellery. The Spirit of Big Bang combines the Big Bang design and the brand’s unique expertise in a tonneau-shaped watch. The piece features six H-shaped titanium screws, the self-winding proprietary movement, the unique “sandwich” case construction which enables an unlimited number of combinations and materials, and comfortable interchangeable straps featuring a deployant buckle. These endless possibilities truly celebrate the art of fusion.
Classic Fusion Tourbillon Orlinski Ceramic
Pop colours, an edgy design, outstanding mechanics, a skeleton tourbillon and a five-day power reserve: Hublot’s new collaboration with the artist is all about fusion, without compromise. From the Classic Fusion Tourbillon Orlinski to his sculptures, Orlinski’s pieces never go unnoticed. The watch emerges from a work of art. Or perhaps it’s the other way around? Hublot’s ‘Art of Fusion’ has never been more exquisitely expressed than through the brand’s collaboration with Richard Orlinski. The world’s best-selling French artist and the most innovative watchmaker of the last 20 years were destined for one another.The first is radiantly sunny, with its case, strap, bezel, hands and index all dressed in yellow. Its ‘beating heart’ is still the manually wound HUB6021. This movement is a favourite among brand connoisseurs. Its components, such as the crown and the six H-shaped screws around the bezel, appear suspended in space by black PVD skeleton bridges. Between 8 and 9 o’clock, the power reserve indicates the five-day capacity. At 6 o’clock, the tourbillon keeps the time ticking on. Plus, thanks to sapphire crystal faces on the front and back, the Classic Fusion Tourbillon Orlinski always catches the light.
Other Novelties
Big Bang Integrated Tourbillon Purple Sapphire
Square Bang Unico King Gold Blue Ceramic, Square Bang Unico Titanium Blue Ceramic,
Square Bang Unico Titanium Blue, Square Bang Unico King Gold Blue, Square Bang Unico Blue Ceramic
Big Bang Integrated Time Only Ceramic in Indigo Blue and Sky Blue
Hublot continues redefining watchmaking’s boundaries, seamlessly blending artistry, mechanics, and unparalleled craftsmanship, creating watches that tell time and stories of audacious creativity and boundless imagination.
In the Chinese zodiac, the Dragon symbolizes strength, luck, and prosperity. As the Year of the Dragon approaches in 2024, several renowned watchmakers have crafted exceptional timepieces to honour this auspicious occasion. Let’s explore nine dragon-themed watches that have captured our attention and earned a coveted spot on our lucky list.
1. IWC Schaffhausen – Portugieser Chronograph Year of the Dragon
The Portugieser Chronograph Year of the Dragon boasts a 41-millimeter stainless steel case, a captivating burgundy dial, and gold-plated hands and appliques. Burgundy, symbolizing the vibrant colour of fire, is a charming shade traditionally used to usher in the Lunar New Year in China, symbolizing longevity and luck. Powering the chronograph is the IWC-manufactured 69355 calibre, a robust and precise mechanical chronograph movement with a classic column-wheel design. A glimpse of the movement through the transparent sapphire case back reveals a standout feature: the gold-plated rotor of the automatic winding system fashioned in the form of a beautifully detailed dragon. Additionally, the case back ring is engraved with “2024 YEAR OF THE DRAGON.”
The Portugieser Chronograph Year of the Dragon comes with two straps: a black calfskin strap and a burgundy rubber strap, allowing the wearer to switch between two distinct looks. Wearing comfort is ensured with a butterfly clasp. Limited to 1000 units, this timepiece captivates with a rotor shaped like a regal dragon, showcased through the transparent sapphire glass case back.
2. Hublot – Spirit of Big Bang Titanium Dragon
Hublot takes on a Chinese trinity: a symbol (eastern Dragon), two ancient art forms (paper cutting and marquetry), and an artist (Chen Fenwan).This exceptional timepiece, limited to a rare 88 pieces, is a captivating embodiment of the ‘Art of Fusion’ and pays homage to the symbolic Year of the Dragon. Hublot, renowned for its innovation and avant-garde approach to watchmaking, collaborates with Chinese artist Chen Fenwan to create a masterpiece that seamlessly blends traditional craftsmanship with contemporary artistry. The dragon motif, expertly crafted by Chen Fenwan, unfolds across the watch’s components — hands, cogs, and screws — arranged in multi-dimensional layers, forming a striking dragon silhouette. Each element is meticulously positioned to create a paper-cut-out representation of this mythical creature. The Dragon’s head, comprised of five layers alternating between hands, wheels, and H-shaped screws, seamlessly extends into its body and scales, which intricately adorn the accompanying strap. Hublot introduces a groundbreaking element — a rubber strap featuring a marquetry design, a first in Hublot’s history.
The Spirit of Big Bang Titanium Dragon, presented in a limited edition of 88 pieces, houses the HUB1710 automatic movement with a power reserve of 50 hours. As an ode to the Chinese New Year, this timepiece not only captures the essence of Hublot’s philosophy — ‘Be First, Unique, and Different’ — but also stands as a testament to the brand’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of traditional watchmaking and embracing the fusion of art and innovation.
3. Bell & Ross – BR 05 Artline Dragon
This Dragon edition of the BR 05 is not just a watch; it is a celebration of the Year of the Dragon in Chinese astrology. A timepiece that epitomizes contemporary elegance with its fusion of sophisticated design and precision engineering. Powering this exceptional watch is the calibre BR.CAL-321, a mechanical movement with automatic winding, provides a substantial power reserve of 54 hours. The meticulous craftsmanship extends to the watch’s hands, adorned with black lacquer accentuating the Dragon’s distinctive whiskers. Deliberate design choices are evident, with the hour circle strategically positioned on the flange, ensuring that the intricate dragon motif takes centre stage.
A testament to the dedication to artistry and detail, the BR 05’s integrated bracelet and dial undergo a remarkable transformation through an extraordinary laser engraving technique. Each link of the bracelet is individually engraved before assembly, resulting in a seamless and captivating visual experience. The symbolism and craftsmanship embedded in every aspect of the timepiece make it a true collector’s item, blending the precision of watchmaking with the artful execution of design.
4. Ulysse Nardin – Blast Tourbillon Dragon
To mark the Lunar New Year, Ulysse Nardin introduces the Blast Tourbillon Dragon, an innovative creation entwined with the ancient magic of Chinese folklore. This avant-garde timepiece embodies in-house innovations, métiers d’art, and the magic of the Year of the Dragon. The majestic Dragon meets the alluring Pearl, creating a harmonious blend of tradition and innovation. Crafting a 3D dragon seemingly gliding beneath the plains of the gear train and the X structure posed considerable challenges. This intricate endeavour unfolded over a meticulous two-year development process, encompassing the design of a distinctive dial and tailor-made adjustments to the Blast Tourbillon case, bezel, and glass box crystal to accommodate this extraordinary creation seamlessly. Behind the audacious structure of the Dragon and the intricately skeletonized dial lies the Blast Tourbillon’s manufacture movement, Calibre UN-172, a marvel that is as unorthodox as it is ingeniously crafted.
Crafted for those who seek the extraordinary, the Blast Tourbillon Dragon is a limited edition piece that captivates with its unique design and symbolic significance.
5. Vacheron Constantin – Métiers d’Art The Legend of the Chinese Zodiac: Year of the Dragon
Métiers d’Art, The Legend of the Chinese zodiac – Year of the Dragon limited editions by Vacheron Constantin, stand as captivating tributes to the esteemed astrological symbol. Symbolizing strength, nobility, and success, these two 25-piece editions showcase the fusion of master enamelling and engraving craftsmanship. The painstaking two-year development process involved the intricate sculpting of the gold dial, creating an enchanting depiction of air flows and clouds inspired by traditional Chinese art. The Dragon, a central figure embodying power and luck, is then meticulously hand-engraved against this backdrop. The result is a mesmerizing creation featuring around 300 scales meticulously applied to the Dragon’s body. Adding a spiritual touch, a hand-engraved pearl representing knowledge, wisdom, and abundance completes the scene with finesse.
Each limited edition boasts a unique dial colour achieved through the artistry of the enamelling artisan. The 40 mm-diameter case is crafted in 950 platinum or 18K 5N pink gold, harmonizing with a corresponding Mississipiensis alligator leather strap. The deep blue Grand Feu enamel dial in platinum matches a blue strap, while the pink gold version features a brown Grand Feu enamel dial paired with a tone-on-tone strap.
Underlining Vacheron Constantin’s dedication to artistic expression, the Métiers d’Art collection showcases the self-winding Calibre 2460 G4. This movement, with a hands-free watch face, reveals hours, minutes, days, and dates through four apertures, offering a unique timekeeping experience. The sapphire crystal case-back in platinum or pink gold exposes the meticulous finishing of Calibre 2460 G4, including a 22K gold oscillating weight adorned with the iconic Maltese Cross emblem.
Each watch is a testament to Vacheron Constantin’s commitment to blending traditional craftsmanship with innovative watchmaking technology in the pursuit of artistic excellence.
6. Piaget – Chinese New Year Collection: Dragon and Phoenix
Piaget unveils a new collection to celebrate the Lunar New Year, marking the beginning of a new 12-year cycle in the Chinese Zodiac. Central to the collection are the Altiplano and Emperador models, crafted with great attention to detail and artistry. The Dragon and Phoenix, symbols of masculinity and femininity, strength and power, grace the dials in exquisite enamel and gold-engraved designs.
The artisan Anita Porchet, renowned for her mastery of enamelling, skillfully fashioned the two 38mm Altiplano Zodiac references. Limited to just 38 pieces each, these exquisite timepieces showcase either a dynamic blue Dragon or a resplendent Phoenix adorned with red, pink, and orange hues. Against a backdrop of white and grey mother of pearl, the mythical creatures come to life through the intricate techniques of cloisonné enamelling and gold engraving.
To celebrate Chinese New Year 2024, Jaquet Droz collaborates with the talented artistic director of “The Lord of the Rings” and “The Hobbit,” John Howe, who designed the Dragon for their new automaton. The Imperial Dragon Automaton Red Gold – Cuprite is a harmonious blend of tradition and innovation, reflecting the aesthetic and symbolic codes of Chinese culture. The Dragon’s shape, horns, whiskers, and even the number of fingers follow Chinese painting techniques.
A Dial Steeped in Symbolism: On the dial, clouds symbolize the forces of nature, and every detail adheres to the richness of Chinese artistry. A masterpiece that captures the essence of Chinese New Year celebrations.
8. Arnold & Son – Luna Magna Red Gold “Year of the Dragon”
Arnold & Son marks the Year of the Dragon with the Luna Magna Red Gold “Year of the Dragon,” a limited edition comprising eight pieces. Incorporating fine watchmaking, miniature sculpture, and gemstone craftsmanship, this timepiece features an encounter between a dragon and the moon. The Dragon, sculpted from red gold, coils around the dial with meticulous hand-engraving, creating a celestial spectacle.
Mechanical Excellence and Astronomical Precision:Powered by the A&S1021 calibre, the watch offers a 90-hour power reserve and a regulating organ oscillating at a frequency of 3 Hz. The moon function, accessible via the crown, showcases Arnold & Son’s mastery of astronomical accuracy.
9. Bovet –The Récital 26 Chapter Two Golden Dragon
China’s most significant cultural icon, the Dragon, takes centre stage in Bovet’s masterpiece, the Récital 26 Chapter Two. Far from Western fire-breathing monsters, the Chinese Dragon embodies benevolence and magical powers, symbolizing courage, confidence, and success. Born in the Year of the Dragon, individuals like John Lennon, Bruce Lee, and Martin Luther King Jr. are believed to inherit these remarkable traits. Integrating a solid 18K gold dragon into the award-winning timepiece presented unique challenges for BOVET. Amidst complications like the Hour and Minute domed Dial, World Time Hemispheric Dial, and the patented BOVET flying tourbillon, the Technical Office carefully delineated the Dragon’s space. A commissioned sculptor and in-house hand-engravers worked meticulously, taking 40-50 hours to craft intricate details, including eyes, scales, claws, and whiskers. A fiery-red ruby set into the eye adds a final touch to the hand-engraved sculpture.
Dragons, rooted in mythology and symbolizing unity, trace back over 5,000 years to China’s Neolithic Age. The Year of the Dragon in 2024, from February 10th to January 28th, 2025, is anticipated to bring luck and power. The Récital 26 Brainstorm® Chapter Two, featuring Bovet’s patented double-sided flying tourbillon, celebrates the Year of the Dragon with exquisite craftsmanship and mechanical excellence. Limited to 12 pieces worldwide, it reflects the 12 months of the Dragon Year, inviting enthusiasts to dance with the Dragon’s symbolic power.
Embrace the Power of the Dragon in 2024
As the Year of the Dragon unfolds, these exceptional timepieces pay homage to Chinese culture, artistry, and symbolism. From traditional craftsmanship to avant-garde designs, each watch on our lucky list stands as a testament to the fusion of horology and cultural celebration. Whether it’s the precision of IWC Schaffhausen, the boldness of Bell & Ross, or the artistic mastery of Vacheron Constantin, these watches invite you to embrace the power and symbolism of the Dragon in 2024. May the Year of the Dragon bring you prosperity, luck, and the timeless beauty of these remarkable timepieces.
