Independent Atelier, under the guidance of Benjamin Hui and Zhang YuXin, has launched an extraordinary project dedicated to perpetuating the celebrated legacy of Kiu Tai Yu, a luminary in Chinese independent watchmaking. This ambitious undertaking, named Project Tai Yu, meticulously recreates Tai Yu's original Millennium watch, a piece of horological history first introduced in 2000. Limited to just 25 meticulously crafted units, this series not only pays homage to a master but also reintroduces a significant design to contemporary collectors. The project ensures that Tai Yu's groundbreaking contributions, especially as the first Chinese member of the Acad\u00e9mie Horlog\u00e8re Des Cr\u00e9ateurs Ind\u00e9pendants (AHCI), continue to inspire and resonate within the global watchmaking community.
This initiative represents a profound commitment to preserving and celebrating the historical and artistic impact of Kiu Tai Yu, whose original works are exceedingly rare and highly sought after. By bringing his vision to a new generation, Independent Atelier reinforces the importance of heritage in watchmaking while showcasing the skill and dedication required to honor such a pivotal figure. The Project Tai Yu watches are more than mere reproductions; they are a continuation of a legacy, offering collectors an opportunity to own a piece of horological art that bridges past innovations with present-day craftsmanship.
The Craftsmanship and Design of Project Tai Yu
The Project Tai Yu watch is a testament to exquisite craftsmanship and a deep respect for Kiu Tai Yu's original vision. Its 18k yellow gold case, measuring 35mm in diameter, 46mm from lug to lug, and 11.2mm in height, is a compact yet intricate design that captures the essence of the original Millennium watch. The sculpted lugs are adorned with a unique spiraling pattern, filled with vibrant red lacquer, adding a distinctive touch. On one side, Tai Yu's name is subtly etched and filled with red cold enamel, a detail that speaks to the personal homage intended by the project. The opposing side features a knurled crown, also with a red-filled engraving, nestled between protective guards that extend from the caseband, marrying functionality with aesthetic elegance. These design elements collectively contribute to a watch that is both visually captivating and historically significant.
The dial of the Project Tai Yu watch is a masterpiece of duality and artistic expression. It is composed of two distinct sections: an upper part crafted from black porcelain enamel, meticulously finished to expose the intricate balance wheel, and a lower section dedicated to the hours and minutes subdial. The balance wheel, a focal point of the dial, is secured by a double-sided gold-colored bridge and enhanced by heat-blued screws, creating a striking contrast. Behind the balance wheel, a red lacquered section bears inscriptions in white that signify the year and the limitation of the series, further emphasizing the watch's exclusive nature. The lower subdial features sword-shaped hands that glide over a harmonious blend of Arabic, Roman, and Chinese numerals and symbols, all accented by a vibrant red center. An engraving on the left side of the dial elegantly displays Chinese symbols for 'Good Fortune & Harmony,' while on the right, 'Millennium' is inscribed, referencing the revered name of Kiu Tai Yu's original creation. This thoughtful integration of elements reflects a profound respect for cultural heritage and horological tradition.
The Reimagined Movement and Exclusive Availability
Central to the Project Tai Yu watch is its movement, a thoughtful reinterpretation of Kiu Tai Yu's original caliber, now designated as IATY-01. While specifics about the original movement were scarce, it was understood to be an adaptation of the robust ETA 2824 architecture. The Independent Atelier team has meticulously reverse-engineered and enhanced this design, focusing on critical improvements to ensure modern precision and reliability. Key upgrades include a refined escapement, an optimized balance shaft, the incorporation of Incabloc shock protection, and enhanced regulator and hairspring components. These technical advancements are particularly noteworthy given that Kiu Tai Yu famously handcrafted many of his original movement components, a rare feat in watchmaking. The IATY-01 automatic movement operates at a frequency of 28,800 vibrations per hour and offers a practical power reserve of 38 hours, embodying a blend of historical reverence and contemporary engineering excellence.
The exclusivity of the Project Tai Yu watch is further highlighted by its limited availability and unique presentation. Only 25 pieces of this exceptional timepiece will be produced, making each unit a highly coveted item for collectors and enthusiasts. Each watch is accompanied by two distinct straps, one in classic black and another in a bold red, both crafted from fine alligator leather. These straps are fitted with yellow gold pin buckles, which feature red-filled engravings that echo the watch's thematic elements. One of the straps uniquely incorporates a 'bow-tie' design in red at the lug side, elegantly bearing Tai Yu's name in yellow gold over red cold enamel, adding an additional layer of personalization and tribute. Priced at CHF 30,500 before VAT, these watches represent a significant investment in a piece of watchmaking history, meticulously re-envisioned and brought to life through the dedicated efforts of Independent Atelier.