Awake's latest release, the Sơn Mài Frosted Leaf Royal Blue, is a stunning example of the brand's unique craftsmanship and attention to detail. This limited edition timepiece is a testament to the brand's ability to push boundaries and innovate in the world of watchmaking. With its stunning Royal Blue dial, 24-karat gold leaf, and handcrafted Sơn Mài lacquer, this watch is a true work of art. But what makes it even more fascinating is the brand's use of a unique technique that combines traditional Vietnamese craftsmanship with Swiss precision. In my opinion, this is a must-have for any watch enthusiast who appreciates the finer details and the art of horology.
One of the most intriguing aspects of this watch is the use of 24-karat gold leaf in the dial's layering process. This is a first for the brand and for Swiss watchmaking, and it adds a level of luxury and sophistication that is simply unparalleled. The gold leaf is applied in a way that creates a depth of color and texture that is truly breathtaking. The result is a dial that is both beautiful and functional, with a unique look that sets it apart from any other watch on the market.
What makes this particular fascinating is the combination of traditional Vietnamese craftsmanship with Swiss precision. The Sơn Mài technique, which uses sap from the Rhus verniciflua tree, is a centuries-old process that has been passed down through generations. By incorporating this technique into their watches, Awake is not only paying homage to a rich cultural heritage but also ensuring that their products are of the highest quality. This is a perfect example of how a brand can blend tradition with innovation to create something truly special.
The attention to detail is evident in every aspect of this watch. The dial features hands and indices with BGW9 Super-LumiNova, polished steel, and bevelled caps, creating a prominent luminescence that is a signature of Awake's design. The new handwritten script logo, a tribute to the artisans who make it, adds a touch of elegance and sophistication to the dial. The case, measuring 38mm in width, 44.75mm lug-to-lug, and 11.5mm thick, features a stepped profile and more pronounced lugs, giving it a mid-20th-century feel while retaining a modern flair.
Powering the watch is a La Joux-Perret G101 automatic movement, which has a 68-hour power reserve, operates at 28,800 bph, and has 24 jewels. The movement is surrounded by a custom-designed rotor machined from a solid block of tungsten, with brushed, polished, and micro-blasted finishes. The rehaut, engraved with Awake's mission and signature, adds a touch of elegance and sophistication to the watch. The strap, a 20mm blue Alcantara strap from Jean Rousseau, features a micro-adjustable FitWell pin-buckle, offering a precise fit.
In my opinion, the price of €3,000/£2,500/US$3,350/A$4,690 is a fair reflection of the craftsmanship and attention to detail that has gone into this watch. The limited edition of 200 pieces will undoubtedly sell out quickly, but for those who appreciate the finer details and the art of horology, this is a must-have addition to their collection.
In conclusion, the Awake Sơn Mài Frosted Leaf Royal Blue is a stunning example of the brand's unique craftsmanship and attention to detail. With its stunning Royal Blue dial, 24-karat gold leaf, and handcrafted Sơn Mài lacquer, this watch is a true work of art. The combination of traditional Vietnamese craftsmanship with Swiss precision makes it a must-have for any watch enthusiast who appreciates the finer details and the art of horology.
