Pearl of the Orient

Langle Yuan x Ricky Hong Collaboration Pièces Uniques. A series of individually unique watches showcasing the exceptional craftsmanship and artistic expression of two young and rising Chinese prodigies of independent watchmaking, the collaboration pieces of enamellist Langle Yuan and watchmaker Ricky Hong are breathtaking works of horological art, which reimagine the concept of personalisation with their stunning enamelled dials depicting scenes and landmarks from around the world. Measuring 40.5mm across and a slender 9.5mm in height the watches are presented in a round case in either all stainless steel or in bi-metal stainless steel with rose or yellow gold upper and lower bezels, and featuring Hong’s signature ‘bullet’ lugs which ensure a comfortable and ergonomic fit, whilst lending the piece a timeless, dress-style silhouette that elegantly frames the artistic dial within. Beneath a gently domed sapphire crystal, each dial is hand-crafted by Langle Yuan in a process which demands meticulous and exacting attention to detail, as layers of powdered glass are hand painted and fired repeatedly to create his lustrous, richly coloured scenes. Darkness reveals another extraordinary side to the young artist’s technique as luminous paint begins to glow, transforming the dial into a nighttime scenario.With no hours, minutes or seconds hands to detract from the enamel dial, the time is displayed by way of a disc which rotates beneath the dial in a twelve hour cycle. A curved aperture between the 11 and 1 o’clock positions reveals the passing hours, with each numeral separated by quarter hour markers, providing a relatively accurate indication of the time. Like the main body of the dial, the disc is coated with luminescent material and glows in low light environments.On the underside, a sapphire caseback reveals the modified Unitas 6498 manual winding movement which has been heavily modified by Ricky Hong. Featuring a new in-house two-thirds plate, bridges with curved anglage around the edges and snailing decoration on the wheels, as well as broad Côtes de Genève stripes and mirror polished balance cock and escapement bridge, it is a strikingly accomplished piece of work, and a testament to the young watchmaker’s skills and uncompromising standards of haute horlogerie watchmaking. Running at a leisurely 21,600 vib/h the manual winding movement boasts a power reserve of circa 45 hours. Each piece is individually crafted by the two artisans to create a tailor-made,bespoke creation to the client’s specific requirements, and furtherpersonalised with a handmade strap by specialist strapmaker Jeayou (JUStraps). Add to WishlistRemove from Wishlist Add to Wishlist