Awake's latest creation, the Sơn Mài Frosted Leaf Royal Red, redefines expectations for dial detailing, building upon the brand's established expertise in the Sơn Mài craft. This new release introduces an unprecedented multi-dimensional visual experience, setting a new standard for artistic watch faces. The timepiece features a striking red dial, beautifully accented with golden elements, drawing inspiration from traditional lacquerware artistry. While the overall design principle remains consistent with previous collections, the Frosted Leaf Royal Red offers a distinctive aesthetic, highlighting more of the metallic foil with unique copper flecks that create the golden shimmer.
Crafted with meticulous attention to detail, the watch's construction combines aesthetic elegance with robust functionality. Encased in 39mm by 45.6mm recycled 316L stainless steel, it is protected by a sapphire crystal with an anti-reflective coating, ensuring clarity and durability. The case, measuring 11.8mm in total thickness, offers a water resistance of 50 meters. Complementing the vibrant dial is a 20mm red suede strap, thoughtfully designed in collaboration with Maison Bouveret, featuring a rubberized calfskin lining and a stainless steel pin buckle for a secure and comfortable fit. The dial also incorporates a 'floating logo' and polished indexes, with Super-LumiNova BGW9 beneath the hour markers and hands, enhancing readability without detracting from the intricate surface design.
Powering this exquisite timepiece is the La Joux-Perret G101 automatic caliber, a movement celebrated for its reliability and precision. This dateless mechanism boasts an impressive 68-hour power reserve, thanks to an efficient tungsten rotor that ensures consistent winding. Operating at a frequency of 4Hz, or 28,800 vibrations per hour, the G101 caliber is not only functionally superior but also visually appealing, featuring striping on the top plate and a laser-engraved movement holder. Each watch is individually numbered, emphasizing its exclusivity. Available for €2,200 (excluding taxes) and limited to just 100 pieces, with the first half ready for immediate shipment and the remainder in April, this timepiece offers a compelling blend of artisanal beauty and horological excellence, presenting a perfect opportunity to add a touch of sophistication and cheer to any collection.
This masterpiece from Awake stands as a testament to innovative design and refined craftsmanship, offering more than just a time-telling device—it offers a piece of wearable art. Its bold yet sophisticated presence is a celebration of intricate artistry and precise engineering, inspiring admiration for the dedication and skill involved in its creation. Owning such a watch not only signifies an appreciation for fine horology but also embraces the spirit of renewal and elegance.