Design Soul — The Art of Time: A Fusion of East and West
Hong Kong is a distinctive locale where Eastern traditions and Western cultures have not merely coexisted but have evolved into a profound and captivating fusion aesthetic. The Louche Watches Model V-HK encapsulates this unique cultural synthesis. We have meticulously engraved the forgotten “Suzhou numerals"—a counting method once prevalent in traditional Hong Kong teahouses, pawnshops, minibuses, and piers, embodying the collective memories of generations of Hong Kong residents—onto the dial. This element serves not merely as a scale but as a poignant reminder of heritage.
A Modern Rebirth of a Classic Movement
Base on ST3600 Manual Winding Movement modified
Pocket Watch Lineage, Wristwatch Spirit:
The ST3600 movement originates from the distinguished Unitas 6497 pocket watch movement of the mid-20th century. Its substantial 37.2mm diameter inherently contributes to its aesthetic appeal. The expansive bridges provide an ideal platform for watchmakers to showcase their expertise.
A Modern Interpretation of the Classic:
We have invested significantly in the design and production of multiple new, high-quality bridges. The form and arrangement of these bridges draw inspiration from premium Swiss pocket watches of a century past, immediately evoking the vintage allure of mechanical timekeeping's golden era.
High-End Watchmaking Finishing:
Modern Sandblasted Base:
The primary structure of the bridges undergoes meticulous hand-sandblasting, resulting in a subtle yet profound matte gray texture.
Chamfering Polishing:
All edges of the bridges are precisely hand-polished using chamfering polishing techniques. This exceptionally time-intensive process enables light to gracefully traverse the movement, creating distinct yet warm lines of brilliance.
The center wheel jewels are secured with gold chaton encircling the ruby bearings. This design element is predominantly found in German horology but is also a characteristic of high-end Swiss timepieces.
Each movement bridge is individually engraved with a unique serial number.
The Essence of the Casing: A Unique Design
Independent watchmaking
is defined by an unwavering commitment to uncompromising quality. To achieve perfect internal and external unity for the Model V-HK, we eschewed readily available universal cases and instead opted for a more challenging approach: designing from the ground up, a decision that incurred costs twenty times greater than utilizing existing case options.
Material Selection:
We have chosen 904L stainless steel, a material typically reserved for high-end timepieces. In contrast to the more prevalent 316L steel, 904L boasts a higher concentration of nickel and molybdenum. This not only provides superior corrosion resistance but also yields a brighter, whiter luster after polishing, closely resembling platinum, and offering an unparalleled tactile experience.
Optimal Dimensions:
The 40mm diameter represents a meticulously engineered "golden size." This dimension perfectly accommodates the large movement while simultaneously addressing the contemporary collector's preference for a moderate and comfortable fit. It preserves the aesthetic appeal of a pocket watch movement without the excessive size often associated with wristwatches that can compromise wearer comfort.
Unique Lug Design:
The V-HK features uniquely designed, multifaceted, machined lugs. These lugs present clean, powerful lines that sharply contrast with the case's curved sides. Their delicate curvature and length are engineered to gently yet firmly secure the timepiece on a variety of wrist sizes, ensuring optimal wearing comfort.
Unobstructed Visibility:
Double-Sided Anti-Reflective Sapphire Crystal. The case incorporates high-transparency sapphire crystal glass on both its front and back, with an anti-reflective coating applied to the inner surface. This design ensures that both the retro-styled dial and the intricate movement are viewed with exceptional clarity and without obstruction, as if no barrier were present.
Technical Details:
Reference: VHK01
Case:
Diameter (excluding crown): 40mm, featuring an exclusive in-house design.
Case thickness (including crystal): ~9mm
Lug-to-lug measurement: 46mm
Material: Constructed from 904L stainless steel.
Crystal: Equipped with a double-sided anti-reflective sapphire crystal.
Water Resistance: 3ATM
Dial:
Crafted from German silver, presenting 3D three-dimensional engraved Suzhou numerals and a distinctive Chinese cinnabar stamp brand signature.
Hands:
Precision-engineered from mirror-polished steel.
Movement:
Based on the modified Seagull ST3600 Manual Winding movement. Changed the screw balance wheel.
Features in-house designed "Vallée de Joux style" bridges, hand finished with chamfering, sandblasting, and mirror polishing. The ratchet and crown wheels exhibit exquisite Snailing polishing.
Power reserve: 46 hours
Frequency: 21600vph (3Hz)
Number of jewels: 17
Manufacturer's warranty: 2 years
To confirm your pre-order for the Louche watch, a 50% deposit via PayPal is required. The estimated production lead time is 4 months, with the balance due upon completion. Your watch will be shipped fully insured via express courier (DHL, UPS, or FedEx), and shipping costs are included in the purchase price.