Let's dive into the world of Awake Watches and their latest masterpiece, the Sơn Mài collection. This brand has always been a master of dial craftsmanship, and their latest creation is a testament to that. The Sơn Mài collection is a subtle evolution, yet it packs a punch with its refined aesthetics and a trio of stunning guilloché dials.
The Evolution of a Classic
I've always admired the Sơn Mài's case design, and it's fascinating to see how Awake has managed to refine it further. The case, now in polished 316L stainless steel, has undergone a slight transformation, reducing its diameter by a mere millimeter. This small change, in my opinion, adds a touch of elegance and enhances the overall wearability of the watch. It's a perfect example of how sometimes less is more.
The Art of Guilloché
What makes this collection truly special is the collaboration with the Renzetti family, masters of the ancient guilloché machining process. Each dial is a work of art, featuring intricate engravings that evoke celestial phenomena. The 'Sunset' dial, with its drapé-moiré pattern and vibrant violet hues, is a masterpiece in itself. The 'Alba', inspired by sunrise, showcases a warm, helical guilloché pattern. And let's not forget the 'Borealis', which captures the magic of the Northern Lights with its radiant, star-shaped grooves.
A Journey of Craftsmanship
The process behind these dials is a journey across continents. From the Renzetti family's workshop in Italy, where the guilloché patterns are meticulously engraved, to Hanoi, Vietnam, where the Sơn Mài lacquering process takes place. This traditional technique, derived from the sap of the Rhus Verniciflua tree, adds depth and intensity to the colours, creating a truly unique and luxurious finish.
A Watch for the Connoisseur
Under the hood, the Sơn Mài collection continues to impress with the reliable La Joux-Perret G101 automatic movement, offering a generous 68-hour power reserve. And the attention to detail extends to the dial-matching Alcantara straps, featuring a new adjustable pin buckle for a perfect fit.
This collection is a testament to Awake's dedication to craftsmanship and their ability to create timepieces that are not just functional, but true works of art. It's a watch that will appeal to those who appreciate the finer details and the stories behind the creation process.
In my opinion, the Sơn Mài collection is a perfect blend of tradition and innovation, and I can't wait to see what Awake has in store for us next.
