The must-have Macro Loupe for all watch lovers

Iconic watch art prints. Made in Switzerland, lifetime guarantee

A recent acquisition and, contrary to my usual practice, a presentation almost immediately, as this is simply a given. There's no need to get bogged down in the traditional technical details—dimensions, power reserve, etc.—all of that is anecdotal with this creation, which doesn't really have a dial, certainly no hands, and an ergonomics that might seem questionable. Here, we need to shift our vocabulary.

Having passed fifty, I felt ready for a radically different watch, an object that tells the time, but for which this notion would be secondary, almost superfluous. I had already noticed SpaceOne for its early creations and its artistic universe focused on space. From our first encounter at Timefest 2025, the Worldtimer captivated me and wouldn't let me go. A futuristic spaceship that reconnected me to my childhood galactic fantasies of the 80s, somewhere where Captain Future would come to the aid of the Jedi from Star Wars.

This watch is a work of art, practically a manifesto for a different way of seeing the world. It's a breath of fresh air that puts a smile on everyone's face. As soon as it's spotted, it encourages even the shyest to take the first step and inquire about its nature. No one cares how to tell the time or how it works. What captures attention is the design and the jewelry-like quality; it sparks everyone's interest.

A few words are in order to highlight the complexity of this timepiece, from the exclusive titanium case—polished, brushed, and micro-blasted, chiseled and tapered according to Olivier Gamette's design—to the three sapphire crystal domes and the worldtimer complication with discs, developed in-house by Théo Auffret based on a Soprod movement.

One question remained: comfort and wearability. Those doubts were dispelled after an hour on my wrist.

A dream machine that quickly found its place. Better yet, it opened a new horizon in watchmaking.

To infinity and beyond

A year after acquiring it, I've finally decided to present this Cédric Bellon, which has become a regular on my wrist. 39mm in diameter (40mm at the bezel), 47mm lug to lug, and 12.2mm thick—dimensions perfectly in tune with current trends for this Skindiver-style watch, a style that was missing from my collection.

Made entirely of recycled grade 5 titanium, which retains its matte finish, the silky-smooth case boasts a rather dark hue that beautifully complements the dial. I can't decide if the highlight is the vertically brushed finish that creates a constant interplay of light, with the orange shifting from yellow to black, or the small seconds subdial, with its circular brushing and recessed position at 12 o'clock, inherent to the Dubois-Despraz movement, sourced from unused stock and chosen to power this beauty.

It features a bidirectional rotating bezel, allowing for the display of a second time zone, secured by an ingenious bezel-locking system on the crown. Originally fitted with a gray suede strap, I opted to "alter" it by replacing it with a more suitable and less fragile orange Tropic strap. I say "alter" it because, despite the presentation, which could have justified my purchase in itself, it was meeting the designer that ultimately convinced me. Cédric, a designer for several brands in the industry, is an engaging, approachable, and dedicated man; the more accurate term would be "passionate," but I avoid it as it's often misunderstood. He has a guiding principle that goes beyond simply wanting to make watches with a low environmental impact. He understands that watchmaking is evolving and that Swiss-made watches, to justify their premium status, must also reinvent themselves. For him, this means integrating "sustainable" into the label.

Whether you agree with it or not, the man is positive, and his message is far removed from green-bashing or punitive environmentalism. Consequently, this change of strap seems to contradict the ambition of the watch, produced in Ticino by Watch Angels, a kind of watchmaking startup incubator, using components produced, recovered, and/or recycled within an 80 km radius. Only the glass and gaskets come from further afield, from France and Spain, I believe.

This watch is different in its ambition, its presentation, and its execution. It's very comfortable, reliable, a conversation starter, and its dial is a constantly evolving stage. What more can I say to convince you? Perhaps simply that, despite the brand's very small production volumes (25 pieces for mine), this is already the 5th one featured on the platform. There's no mystery there.

A man's story

Spottable from a hundred miles away with its shimmering colors, it attracts more the attention of children and those who have remained children than of self-proclaimed connoisseurs. It makes you smile, you feel like you are carrying a circus with you. And then what comfort, with its Curvex case it is a real slipper.

Unforgettable and yet…

Perhaps the ideal watch. A direct descendant of an era when it officially shared most of its components with its cousin in the crown, it has been reborn by wonderfully marrying history and modernity. Its distinctive and magnificent blue also links it to the versions intended for the French Navy. It is also this color that made me fall in love, it made me forget the Snowflake that I have since learned to appreciate. For the rest, no surprises. Precision, robustness, comfort and elegance are there. The blue rubber suits it wonderfully and alternates with the original NATO because the steel did not convince me.

The Heiress

If I like chronographs, certainly for the feeling of being able to control the duration in the measurement of the duration, the balance of the dial is important to me. Also it seems to me that only the arrangement of 3 sub-counters positioned at 3/6/9 allows to preserve it and to bring an aestheticism to something that could seem too busy. Exception to the rule, this Baume&Mercier Capeland Chrono from the early 2000s with its sub-counters installed at 6/9/12 o'clock. I don't know if it's because they are as if recessed into the dial, if it's because of the slightly dated typography, the grace of its domed glass or the phi which harmoniously fills the space at 3 o'clock but I find it incredibly charming. It is for me the last trace of the high-end Baume&Mercier that I dreamed of when passing in front of the Arfan storefront in Paris.

It looks smaller than it is because with its 39mm diameter, its 45mm lug to lug and especially its 15mm thickness, it is anything but slender. Very comfortable, especially thanks to its 5-link bracelet which is reminiscent of a certain Breitling, its weight reminds you of its presence.

Even if we come across them regularly, I have long sought this combination of gray dial/black sub-dials on a steel bracelet, all in good condition, the most beautiful configuration in my opinion of this chic chronograph which is ultimately all in simplicity.

Unique in my collection

I think we are always looking for the different watch, the one that we will not see at the next table, the one that brings something more than what we already have. From time to time we find it. I stopped on this dial that I had never seen anywhere else. Two sizes of hour markers, two dial heights and a segment in two sides for each hour, a modern pan pie.
Without further ado, I rushed to the site and discovered perfect proportions for my wrist (38mm and lug to lug of 46), a Swiss engine (Sellita) and a Philippine origin, what could be more exotic? Ordered immediately, I waited a while for its arrival which allowed me to torture myself a little on the why of this impulsive purchase and its interest, coming to regret it. But all that evaporated when I put it on my wrist. A fairly classic design at first glance for a "sport-chic" but a magnificent and ultra comfortable integrated bracelet, a circular brushed bezel on the surface with a polished chamfer, a case that looks like it is embedded in the bracelet and of course this original dial in a captivating matte black that echoes the name of the model. The chamfer that starts from the base of the case and runs along the bracelet brings a touch of elegance and distinction. The downsides, we always find some, a crown that is a little small, but screwed which ensures water resistance to 10atm, an open case back that is not particularly useful because on a simple decorative movement and reduced readability when the light decreases. All this is ultimately not very important in view of the incredible look of the beauty.

And why not?

<p dir="ltr">Founded in <strong>1991</strong> in Geneva by the eponymous watchmaker <strong>Franck Muller</strong> and the case specialist Vartan Sirmakes, the brand Franck Muller quickly established itself in the world of fine watchmaking thanks to its innovative creations and sophisticated watchmaking complications. Combining traditional know-how and daring design, Franck Muller is today recognized for its exceptional watches which appeal to collectors and watch enthusiasts around the world.</p>
<h3 dir="ltr">The Origins of the Brand</h3>
<p dir="ltr">Born in July 1958 in La Chaux-de-Fonds, Franck Muller developed a passion for watchmaking very early on. After studying at the Geneva Watchmaking School, he devoted himself to restoring complicated watches for collectors and auction houses. This experience allows him <strong>to acquire in-depth expertise in complex watch mechanisms</strong>. In 1983, after months of research and dedication, he presented his first wristwatches, all with complicated movements that he designed himself. These creations, produced under the &ldquo;Franck Gen&egrave;ve&rdquo; brand, quickly attracted the attention of watch enthusiasts.</p>
<p dir="ltr">Vartan Sirmakes, born in 1956 in Constantinople into a family of Armenian jewelers, moved to Geneva at the age of 18. With his experience in the manufacture of watch cases, he met Franck Muller at the end of the 1980s. Sharing a common vision of watchmaking, they decided to combine their skills to found the brand <strong>Franck Muller Gen&egrave;ve</strong> in 1991.</p>
<h3 dir="ltr">World Firsts and Innovations</h3>
<p dir="ltr">From the outset, Franck Muller has distinguished itself by its ability to innovate and push the boundaries of traditional watchmaking. Every year, the brand presents <strong>&ldquo;World Premieres&rdquo;</strong>, watches with unique complications. Notable achievements include the first tourbillon visible on the dial side, an innovation that revolutionizes the design of complicated watches.</p>
<p dir="ltr">In 2004, after years of development, Franck Muller unveiled the <strong>"Revolution 3"</strong>, the world&rsquo;s first tri-axial tourbillon. This complication offers increased precision and a fascinating visual spectacle, testifying to the technical mastery of the manufacture.</p>
<p dir="ltr">One of the brand's most iconic creations is the <strong>Aeternitas Mega</strong>, presented in 2007. With 36 complications and 1,483 components, this watch is considered the most complicated ever made, embodying the pinnacle of Franck Muller's watchmaking expertise.</p>
<h3 dir="ltr">Design and Aesthetics</h3>
<p dir="ltr">The design of Franck Muller watches is immediately recognizable thanks to the distinctive shape of the case <strong>&ldquo;Cintr&eacute;e Curvex&rdquo;</strong>. This curved silhouette, combined with dials with stylized and often colorful numerals, gives the watches a unique identity. This bold and elegant aesthetic reflects the brand's desire to combine tradition and modernity.</p>
<h3 dir="ltr">Iconic Collections</h3>
<p dir="ltr">Among Franck Muller's flagship collections, we find:</p>
<p dir="ltr"><strong>Franck Muller Vanguard :</strong> This collection is characterized by a sporty and contemporary design, with clean lines and innovative materials. Vanguard models are available in various complications, including chronographs and tourbillons.</p>
<p dir="ltr"><strong>Franck Muller Master Square :</strong> Inspired by the Art Deco movement, this collection highlights geometric purity and symmetry of lines, offering a perfectly balanced design.</p>
<p dir="ltr"><strong>Franck Muller Crazy Hours : </strong>Launched in 2003, this collection offers unconventional time reading, with hour numerals arranged non-sequentially on the dial. The hour hand jumps from one position to another, providing a fun and surprising experience of time.</p>
<h3 dir="ltr">La Manufacture Watchland</h3>
<p dir="ltr">The headquarters of Franck Muller, <strong>known as "Watchland"</strong>, is located in Genthod, near Geneva. This watchmaking complex brings together all the trades necessary for the design and manufacture of watches, allowing total quality control and great responsiveness in the development of new creations.</p>
<h3 dir="ltr">International Expansion and Recognition</h3>
<p dir="ltr">Since its creation, Franck Muller has experienced rapid growth, establishing itself as a reference in the field of fine watchmaking. Franck Muller's creations are regularly praised for their originality and complexity, consolidating the brand's reputation as <strong>"Master of Complications"</strong>.</p>
<h3 dir="ltr">Commitment to Excellence</h3>
<p dir="ltr">Each Franck Muller watch is the result of meticulous artisanal work, combining traditional techniques and cutting-edge technologies. The brand attaches particular importance to manual finishing, movement decoration and the precision of complications,</p>
<p dir="ltr">Get inspired by <strong>Dialicious owners&rsquo; reviews</strong> to find the Franck Muller watch that suits you.</p>
<p dir="ltr">(Updated February 2025)</p>

<p><strong>Atelier Wen</strong> est une marque horlog&egrave;re ind&eacute;pendante qui s'est distingu&eacute;e par son approche novatrice, alliant le riche patrimoine culturel chinois &agrave; une horlogerie de haute qualit&eacute;. Fond&eacute;e par deux passionn&eacute;s de la culture chinoise, Thomas Gronenthal et Robin Tallendier, la marque vise &agrave; red&eacute;finir la perception des montres "Made in China" en mettant en avant l'excellence artisanale du pays.</p>
<h3><strong>Philosophie et Mission</strong></h3>
<p>L'objectif principal d'Atelier Wen est de c&eacute;l&eacute;brer l'artisanat chinois en cr&eacute;ant des montres qui refl&egrave;tent l'h&eacute;ritage culturel et l'expertise technique du pays. La marque cherche &agrave; offrir des garde-temps de luxe qui int&egrave;grent des &eacute;l&eacute;ments de design chinois authentiques, tout en maintenant des standards &eacute;lev&eacute;s de qualit&eacute; et de pr&eacute;cision.</p>
<h3><strong>Collections Principales</strong></h3>
<p><em>1. Porcelain Odyssey</em></p>
<p>La collection "Porcelain Odyssey" est la premi&egrave;re s&eacute;rie de montres lanc&eacute;e par Atelier Wen. Ces montres se distinguent par leurs <strong>cadrans en porcelaine v&eacute;ritable</strong>, fabriqu&eacute;s selon des techniques traditionnelles chinoises. Les mod&egrave;les "Ji" et "Hao" pr&eacute;sentent des motifs inspir&eacute;s de l'art chinois, offrant une esth&eacute;tique unique qui rend hommage &agrave; la riche histoire du pays.</p>
<p><em>2. Perception</em></p>
<p>La collection "Perception" incarne l'engagement d'Atelier Wen envers l'horlogerie de luxe. Ces montres arborent des cadrans guilloch&eacute;s r&eacute;alis&eacute;s &agrave; la main par le ma&icirc;tre artisan Cheng Yucai, <strong>le seul ma&icirc;tre guillocheur de Chine</strong>. Chaque cadran n&eacute;cessite environ huit heures de travail minutieux sur des machines &agrave; guillocher sp&eacute;cialement con&ccedil;ues. Les mod&egrave;les de cette collection sont disponibles en trois couleurs de cadran : bleu clair ("Piao"), saumon ("Xia") et gris ("Ying").</p>
<h3><strong>Caract&eacute;ristiques Techniques</strong></h3>
<p>Les montres Atelier Wen sont con&ccedil;ues avec une attention particuli&egrave;re aux d&eacute;tails et &agrave; la qualit&eacute;. Les bo&icirc;tiers, souvent en acier inoxydable 904L, offrent une r&eacute;sistance accrue &agrave; la corrosion et une finition polie exceptionnelle. Les dimensions typiques incluent <strong>un diam&egrave;tre de 40 mm, une &eacute;paisseur de 9,4 mm</strong> et une distance de corne &agrave; corne de 47 mm, assurant un port confortable sur une vari&eacute;t&eacute; de poignets. Les montres sont &eacute;galement &eacute;tanches jusqu'&agrave; 100 m&egrave;tres, ce qui les rend polyvalentes pour une utilisation quotidienne.</p>
<h3><strong>Mouvement</strong></h3>
<p>Les garde-temps de la collection "Perception" sont &eacute;quip&eacute;s du <strong>calibre automatique SL1588, fabriqu&eacute; par Dandong</strong>. Ce mouvement bat &agrave; une fr&eacute;quence de 28 800 alternances par heure et offre une r&eacute;serve de marche d'environ 41 heures. Bien que relativement nouveau sur le march&eacute;, ce calibre a &eacute;t&eacute; choisi pour sa fiabilit&eacute; et sa pr&eacute;cision, refl&eacute;tant l'engagement d'Atelier Wen envers l'innovation et la qualit&eacute;.</p>
<h3><strong>Bracelet et Confort</strong></h3>
<p>Les montres Atelier Wen sont dot&eacute;es de bracelets int&eacute;gr&eacute;s en acier inoxydable, con&ccedil;us pour assurer <strong>une transition fluide entre le bo&icirc;tier et le bracelet</strong>. Les maillons sont finement chanfrein&eacute;s et polis, offrant une esth&eacute;tique luxueuse et un confort optimal. La version 2.0 de la collection "Perception" a introduit des am&eacute;liorations notables, notamment des chanfreins faits main sur tous les maillons internes, renfor&ccedil;ant ainsi l'apparence haut de gamme du bracelet.</p>
<h3><strong>Collaborations et &Eacute;ditions Limit&eacute;es</strong></h3>
<p>Atelier Wen a &eacute;galement explor&eacute; des collaborations pour offrir <strong>des &eacute;ditions limit&eacute;es uniques</strong>. Par exemple, en partenariat avec Revolution, la marque a lanc&eacute; des mod&egrave;les en titane avec des cadrans jaunes et rouges vibrants, chacun limit&eacute; &agrave; 100 pi&egrave;ces. Une autre collaboration notable inclut une &eacute;dition sp&eacute;ciale avec Wristcheck et seconde/seconde/, pr&eacute;sentant un design ludique et innovant qui refl&egrave;te l'engagement de la marque envers la cr&eacute;ativit&eacute; et l'artisanat.</p>
<h3><strong>R&eacute;ception et Impact</strong></h3>
<p>Depuis son lancement, Atelier Wen a re&ccedil;u des &eacute;loges pour sa capacit&eacute; &agrave; fusionner l'esth&eacute;tique chinoise traditionnelle avec l'horlogerie moderne. La marque a r&eacute;ussi &agrave; <strong>changer la perception du "Made in China"</strong> en d&eacute;montrant que l'artisanat chinois peut rivaliser avec les standards internationaux les plus &eacute;lev&eacute;s. Les critiques ont salu&eacute; la qualit&eacute; de fabrication, le design distinctif et l'approche innovante de la marque.</p>
<h3><strong>Conclusion</strong></h3>
<p>Atelier Wen repr&eacute;sente une <strong>fusion r&eacute;ussie de la tradition culturelle chinoise et de l'horlogerie contemporaine</strong>. En mettant l'accent sur l'artisanat, la qualit&eacute; et le design, la marque a &eacute;tabli une identit&eacute; unique dans le monde de l'horlogerie de luxe. Que ce soit &agrave; travers des cadrans en porcelaine d&eacute;licatement fabriqu&eacute;s ou des motifs guilloch&eacute;s complexes, chaque montre raconte une histoire qui honore le riche h&eacute;ritage de la Chine tout en r&eacute;pondant aux attentes des passionn&eacute;s de montres modernes.</p>
<p>Inspirez-vous des <strong>avis clients Dialicious</strong> pour choisir la montre qui vous ressemble.</p>
<p>(Mise &agrave; jour Mars 2025)</p>

<p dir="ltr"><strong>Atelier Wen</strong> is an independent watch brand that has distinguished itself by its innovative approach, combining China's rich cultural heritage with high-quality watchmaking. Founded by <strong>two enthusiasts of Chinese culture</strong>, Thomas Gronenthal and Robin Tallendier, the brand aims to redefine the perception of "Made in China" watches by highlighting the country's artisanal excellence.</p>
<h3 dir="ltr">Philosophy and Mission</h3>
<p dir="ltr">Atelier Wen's main goal is to celebrate Chinese craftsmanship by creating watches that reflect the <strong>country's cultural heritage </strong>and technical expertise. The brand seeks to offer luxury timepieces that incorporate authentic Chinese design elements, while maintaining high standards of quality and precision.</p>
<h3 dir="ltr">Main Collections</h3>
<p dir="ltr">1. Porcelain Odyssey</p>
<p dir="ltr">The &ldquo;Porcelain Odyssey&rdquo; collection is the first series of watches launched by Atelier Wen. These watches are distinguished by their <strong>real porcelain dials</strong>, made using traditional Chinese techniques. The "Ji" and "Hao" models feature designs inspired by Chinese art, offering a unique aesthetic that pays homage to the country's rich history.</p>
<p dir="ltr">2. Perception</p>
<p dir="ltr">The &ldquo;Perception&rdquo; collection embodies Atelier Wen&rsquo;s commitment to luxury watchmaking. These watches feature guilloche dials handcrafted by master craftsman Cheng Yucai, <strong>the only master guilloche maker in China</strong>. Each dial requires approximately eight hours of painstaking work on specially designed guilloche machines. The models in this collection are available in three dial colors: light blue (&ldquo;Piao&rdquo;), salmon (&ldquo;Xia&rdquo;) and gray (&ldquo;Ying&rdquo;).</p>
<h3 dir="ltr">Technical Characteristics</h3>
<p dir="ltr">Atelier Wen watches are designed with attention to detail and quality. Housings, often made from 904L stainless steel, offer increased corrosion resistance and an exceptional polished finish. Typical dimensions include a diameter of <strong>40mm, a thickness of 9.4mm and a lug-to-lug distance</strong> of 47mm, ensuring comfortable wear on a variety of wrists. The watches are also water resistant up to 100 meters, making them versatile for everyday use.</p>
<h3 dir="ltr">Movement</h3>
<p dir="ltr">The timepieces from the &ldquo;Perception&rdquo; collection are equipped with the automatic <strong>caliber SL1588, manufactured by Dandong</strong>. This movement beats at a frequency of 28,800 vibrations per hour and offers a power reserve of approximately 41 hours. Although relatively new to the market, this caliber was chosen for its reliability and precision, reflecting Atelier Wen's commitment to innovation and quality.</p>
<h3 dir="ltr">Bracelet and Confort</h3>
<p dir="ltr">Atelier Wen watches feature integrated stainless steel bracelets, designed to provide <strong>a seamless transition between case and bracelet</strong>. The links are finely chamfered and polished, providing a luxurious aesthetic and optimal comfort. Version 2.0 of the "Perception" collection introduced notable improvements, including hand-crafted chamfers on all internal links, reinforcing the premium appearance of the bracelet.</p>
<h3 dir="ltr">Collaborations and Limited Editions</h3>
<p dir="ltr">Atelier Wen has also explored collaborations to offer <strong>unique limited editions</strong>. For example, in partnership with Revolution, the brand launched titanium models with vibrant yellow and red dials, each limited to 100 pieces. Another notable collaboration includes a special edition with Wristcheck and seconds /seconde/, featuring a playful and innovative design that reflects the brand's commitment to creativity and craftsmanship.</p>
<h3 dir="ltr">Reception and Impact</h3>
<p dir="ltr">Since its launch, Atelier Wen has received praise for its ability to fuse traditional Chinese aesthetics with modern watchmaking. The brand has succeeded in <strong>changing the perception of "Made in China"</strong> by demonstrating that Chinese craftsmanship can compete with the highest international standards. Reviewers praised the brand's build quality, distinctive design, and innovative approach.</p>
<h3 dir="ltr">Conclusion</h3>
<p dir="ltr">Atelier Wen represents a successful fusion of Chinese cultural tradition and contemporary watchmaking. With a focus on craftsmanship, quality and design, the brand has established <strong>a unique identity </strong>in the world of luxury watchmaking. Whether through delicately crafted porcelain dials or intricate guilloche patterns, each watch tells a story that honors China's rich heritage while meeting the expectations of modern watch enthusiasts.</p>
<p dir="ltr">Take inspiration from <strong>Dialicious customer reviews </strong>to choose the watch that suits you.</p>
<p dir="ltr">(Updated March 2025)</p>

Franck Muller Color Dreams Owner Review : Sparkling, elegant and unforgettable

Unforgettable and yet…

Where to buy your Franck Muller?

Chronopassion

YOU ARE :

Other reviews published by Bonaparte1973

SpaceOne
Worldtimer

Cedric Bellon
CB01

Tudor
Black Bay 58

Baume & Mercier
Capeland Chronographe

Makina
Mephisto III

Customize your Franck Muller with our selection of accessories:

Eagle Eye Watches

Iconic Switzerland

Franck Muller Color Dreams Owner Review : Sparkling, elegant and unforgettable

Unforgettable and yet…

Where to buy your Franck Muller?

Chronopassion

YOU ARE :

Other reviews published by Bonaparte1973

SpaceOneWorldtimer

Cedric BellonCB01

TudorBlack Bay 58

Baume & MercierCapeland Chronographe

MakinaMephisto III

Customize your Franck Muller with our selection of accessories:

Eagle Eye Watches

Iconic Switzerland

SpaceOne
Worldtimer

Cedric Bellon
CB01

Tudor
Black Bay 58

Baume & Mercier
Capeland Chronographe

Makina
Mephisto III