Fine Art Of Watchmaking

Through the use of remarkable techniques, these brands demonstrate the fine art of watchmaking.

Asaph Low

SEIKO PRESAGE SBP171

Enshrined within Japan’s cultural identity is its deep respect for tradition and art. Seiko’s newest release combines two ancient practices in the limited edition Seiko Presage SBP 171. Suigetsu — whose Kanji characters signify water and the moon — was the enjoyment of the moon’s reflection on ponds and lakes during the late eighth to the early twelfth century known as the Heian period. Though the ephemeral and unattainable, Seiko captures the fleeting beauty of Suigetsu through the use of Arita porcelain.

Arita porcelain — famed for its purity and faint blue tinge — dates back to the 17th century when it was discovered in the town of Arita, Kyushu, Japan. It forms the dial of the Presage SBP 171, made by master craftsman Hiroyuki Hashiguchi and his team. A special formula of porcelain is concocted to ensure the dial is strong enough to be placed in a timepiece. Crafting each dial requires great skill and patience as the porcelain pieces are put through a multi-stage firing process to attain a rich sheen of white. Instead of finishing with the traditional blue sheen, a transparent glaze is applied to accentuate the whiteness of the dial. This white porcelain known as Hakuji captures the delicate beauty of Suigetsu and creates a sharp contrast with the shades of blue seen in the hands, roman numerals and sub-dials.

HERMÈS ARCEAU POCKET AAAAARGH!

Leather craftsmanship meets Haute Horlogerie as Hermès creates a unique pocket watch, featuring the T-Rex from the Aaaaargh! silk scarf designed by English artist Alice Shirley. After the success of the Slim d’Hermès Grrrrr! (gruff bear) and the Arceau Awooooo (howling wolf), Hermès adds the king of tyrant lizards to its bestiary. A motif of the prehistoric reptile set atop the pocket watch case, coming to life with its half-open jaws and menacing gaze.