The Blancpain Villeret Traditional Chinese Calendar enters its second 12-year cycle with a limited edition timepiece.
Blancpain, the Swiss luxury watchmaker, celebrates a new chapter of its Villeret Traditional Chinese Calendar, marking the milestone with a limited edition timepiece for the auspicious Year of the Dragon. Following their 2012 breakthrough, Blancpain combines the intricacies of a Chinese calendar, Gregorian date, and moonphase in a harmonious dance of craftsmanship. The dragon, an emblem of power and fortune in Chinese culture, is engraved on the red gold winding rotor, complemented by a green enamel dial in this 2024 edition.
Inspired by the legend of the Jade Emperor summoning twelve different animals to the gate of his palace, Blancpain’s annual limited editions celebrate the Chinese Zodiac. The dragon, as the reigning symbol, graces the red gold rotor against a frosted background adorned with a red ruby and a Chinese character representing “dragon” and “wood,” the element for 2024. The Zodiac’s symbolism unfolds on the dial through dedicated hands, a leap month window, and an indicator for Chinese hours, showcasing the 60-year cycle of elements and Yin/Yang.
This opulent creation is more than a visual spectacle; it is a technological marvel. A testament to horological mastery, the movement boasts 464 components across six layers, rivalling the complexity of a minute repeater. Developed over five years, the calendar mechanism operates on Blancpain’s three mainspring barrel movement, delivering a formidable seven-day power reserve. The full-fired grand feu enamel dial in a lush green hue harmonises with the 45mm red gold case, embodying elegance and precision.
Blancpain’s patented under lug correctors facilitate calendar adjustments, ensuring a seamless experience for wearers. The secure design mitigates the risk of damage during automatic changes, showcasing Blancpain’s commitment to functionality. Limited to just 50 pieces, the 2024 Traditional Chinese Calendar encapsulates the brand’s dedication to horological excellence, blending tradition and innovation in this opulent timekeeping masterpiece.
Images courtesy of Blancpain, artwork by Curatedition. All rights reserved.
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