The must-have Macro Loupe for all watch lovers

Iconic watch art prints. Made in Switzerland, lifetime guarantee

Here is a watch that fascinates me, Jumbo model from the 40s. Case of Ø36, dial opening of Ø33, i.e. a large dial format; Arabic numerals, blued hands, small seconds...... Zenith, €250. It doesn't take more (or less) to turn me away from a current model like the NOMOS Tangente, with similar characteristics, except for the sapphire crystal. But concerning the water resistance (3ATM for the NOMOS), I am not much more of a loser with this one. So a great & responsible watch (not new) that celebrated its 80th birthday with its seduction still intact.

The base

Well, as if the MoonSwatch ad campaign had a wide reach. Having ruled out the Moonwatch experience from my watchmaking projects, no need for the compax, nor a tachymeter bezel, ... in 2022 the word "speedmaster" was repeated endlessly in the watchmaking world.... Having saved €250 on a Moonswatch that I will never buy, I opened up the budget a little more for a Reduced model. The question arose of a less moonlike version, 6/9/15 o'clock dials; and then no, the black compax aesthetic imposed itself. Unlike the moonwatch (Speed' Pro), Arabic numerals animate the dial every 5 minutes (a bit like a flieger type B), directly evoking the OMEGA hand chronographs at many international sporting events. The choice was made. The format is surprising, the asymmetrical case of Ø40mm exposes a bezel reduced to Ø38mm. It's elegant, it's classic, it's sporty, it's timeless, a Speed' (but not a moonwatch, it's a detail for me). Perfect on a steel bracelet, I'm going to try it soon on perforated leather "British Racing Green", for a more automotive evocation, the origin of the Speedmaster model.

Don't ask him for the moon

Having been for a long time only attracted by mechanical watches without complications, 3 hands, no date; by dint of listening to the various influencers, I asked myself "and why not a chronograph" with an emblematic & very connoted finish, even caricatured, the PANDA. This type of watch not having a priority in my collection, I turned to an economical choice, the reissue of the Chinese chronograph from 1963, in a finish under contrasting dials, panda. The watch is nice, blued hands, red chrono second hand, we lose the great elegance, but the compromise is nice. A relatively endearing watch, mounted on a "racing green" strap to bring it back to the automotive world. I wear it little, the 30mn compax counter ultimately finds few concrete daily applications. It does have style, however, it could be replaced by an equivalent LONGINES or UNIVERSAL Genève, panda .... to be seen

Panda

The SKX .... there was a time when getting into watchmaking could be summed up as SKX or Mako? It was Mako for me 5 years ago, finding the SKX too "rustic" & "industrial". I was wrong. The SKX is one of those watches whose bezel Ø is 2mm smaller than the case Ø. This mid-size model with a 37/38mm case therefore has a Ø35 bezel & a Ø27 dial. Which is very small, very refined, perhaps too much for tool use. And so as the title indicates, with its faceted conical bezel, its contained Ø & its jubilee bracelet, this SKX is not so far removed in the broad outlines from a classic OysterDate construction (completely in its place between a 74033 & a 114270). In short, a watch also designed for bike rides, but which takes on so many roles that it can do everything with its SEIKO jubilee bracelet. It is the most complete in my watch box.

DayDate

Ouch Ouch, I can no longer enjoy this watch, but I sense that it is just temporary, the time to put other watches on my wrist, I will one day have to find in this Mako 2 everything that one can ask of a utilitarian watch .... and let's admit it, refined. Because yes, what currently bothers me about the very popular Mako 2 is its shiny, sun-kissed jewel side, with its polished surfaces ..... that's not what I ask of it. Originally, this watch was supposed to accompany me on mountain bikes & other cycling practices. Also a tool watch for tinkering. But in this register, it was too flashy. This watch has the "not expensive enough my son" syndrome. It has a degree of finish that you wouldn't expect at this price. This is the type of watch that raises the critical question "why would you want to spend more on a watch?" I still don't have the answer. Rarity? Exclusivity? Elitist image? "History"? Record? Prowess? Seen in the ad? Seen on a star? Seen on insta? I'm sulking about this watch without fundamentally understanding why; yet it has accompanied me on many outings & it works like the first day. In short, a watch for the long term, with alternating attraction / repulsion phases. What more does a BB58 bring compared to this Mako? I don't know. A small particularity of this watch, its format. Case Ø41.5 / 42, Bezel Ø40 with a large notched part polished steel. The result is a blue bezel with a narrowed diameter of Ø38mm, which contributes to making it elegant. This watch is a witchcraft in itself, bewitched without really wanting to be, it poses a real question on the perception of quality. So much the better.

Big blue

3rd YEMA Superman, Ø39, this time with GMT function. The evocative power of the famous Pepsi color combination (or rather the colors of Superman's underwear in my opinion) with the ideal case for Superman in my eyes. Always this problem of refraction of light from the double domed glass (see photos). It is a watch that I enjoy wearing as a "24h" watch. I follow the GMT pointer throughout the day, the indexing is very readable along the dark hours & light hours; accompanied by the minute hand for more precision if necessary (we could do without the hour & second hands). I wear it on the original steel bracelet or on yellow perlon, for a slightly more festive & less ceremonious/serious look, so the 3 primary colors yellow / blue / red.

Your Peps'

<p><strong>Sea-Gull</strong> is a watch brand founded in <strong>1955</strong> in Tianjin, China. Evolving from the Tianjin Watch Factory (now Tianjin Sea-Gull Watch Group), it manufactures mechanical watches and movements for audiences ranging from first-time buyers to collectors seeking more ambitious complications.</p>
<h3>From Tianjin Watch Factory to the ST families</h3>
<p>Born as a state-owned factory, the brand went through the quartz era before returning to all-mechanical production, building around caliber families (ST16, ST18, ST21/2130, ST36, ST19, etc.); <strong>a key milestone was acquiring the tooling and blueprints of the Venus 175 chronograph in the early 1960s, which spawned the ST19 lineage</strong>, while the mid-2000s brought in-house tourbillons (ST80 and derivatives) and a spectrum from standard workhorse movements to sophisticated complications.</p>
<h3>From &ldquo;Project 304&rdquo; to the 1963 chronograph, then a wider range</h3>
<p>Part of the brand&rsquo;s global recognition comes from a military-born piece turned cult classic: <strong>the &ldquo;1963&rdquo; derived from Project 304</strong>, a re-edition of a chronograph designed for the Chinese Air Force with a clean bi-compax layout and strong historic appeal; around it, Sea-Gull develops classic and sporty lines as well as tourbillons priced more accessibly than many Swiss counterparts.</p>
<ul>
<li><strong>Sea-Gull 1963</strong> &mdash; Hand-wound bi-compax chronograph, descendant of Project 304; a gateway icon to the brand.</li>
<li><strong>Sea-Gull Tourbillon (ST80)</strong> &mdash; Tourbillon series launched in the mid-2000s; a showcase of expertise and a &ldquo;value&rdquo; alternative to Swiss benchmarks.</li>
<li><strong>Sea-Gull Ocean Series</strong> &mdash; Sport and diving line (including &ldquo;Antarctic&rdquo; editions), aimed at daily wear.</li>
</ul>
<h3>Catalog movements and a global ecosystem</h3>
<p>Beyond its own watches, Sea-Gull broadly supplies movements: ST16 (a robust automatic with Japanese-inspired architecture), ST2130 (similar layout to ETA 2824-2), ST36 (hand-wound family akin to Unitas 6497/6498) and ST19 (column-wheel chronograph derived from the Venus heritage); <strong>this availability powers many micro-brands and international assemblers</strong>, supporting the company&rsquo;s reputation as a major industrial supplier in Asia.</p>
<h3>Positioning, pricing and distribution</h3>
<p>The positioning spans a wide range: entry-priced &ldquo;classic&rdquo; automatics, mid-range historic chronographs and higher-end complications (tourbillons, multi-axis); <strong>exact pricing varies by market and series (from a few hundred euros at entry level to several thousand for tourbillons)</strong>, while annual volumes are not disclosed. Distribution mixes direct online sales, retail partners in China and abroad, and a B2B network for movements.</p>
<h3>Conclusion</h3>
<p>Sea-Gull appeals to those discovering mechanical watchmaking at a measured cost, to enthusiasts of engaging horological stories (1963), and to the curious seeking &ldquo;de-dramatized&rdquo; access to complications. The brand is identifiable by its ST caliber ecosystem, supplier role, and collections ranging from utilitarian daily pieces to technical showcases. To choose between a historic <strong>Sea-Gull 1963</strong>, a daily-driver automatic or a more demonstrative tourbillon, compare specifications with real-world use: rely on <strong>Dialicious customer reviews</strong> to assess legibility, comfort and on-wrist behavior.</p>
<p>(Updated August 2025)</p>

You'll find countless articles and videos about this Seagull 1963, a reissue of the first watch for the Chinese Army. A reissue of the first watch for the Chinese Air Force after World War II.

An automatic chronograph, hand-wound, column-wheel movement, originally derived from the VENUS Cal175. Add a 40mm diameter, sapphire crystal, and a bit of lum... Find me one in Europe for €113 (purchase price in 2024)? The answer is simple: it doesn't exist, and no European watch can come close.

I don't have enough experience with its maintenance; we'll see then.

Also note that the watch comes on a brown leather strap with quick release and a black and khaki green NATO strap, but I put it on a sage green rubber strap for summer, which I think suits it well.

The chronograph's mechanism, with the minute hand jumping from minute to minute, is brilliant, and I never tire of turning it over to see the caliber. It's INCREDIBLE.

At this price! UNBEATABLE

HKED is a distributor based in Hong Kong. On the site, it is possible to buy "1963" models with increased quality control and TOP finishing. I gave this watch to my son for his 14th birthday. This HKED has a 40mm 1963 case, with an ST 1901 movement, derived from the Swiss Venus 175 mechanical chronograph movement, visible, thanks to the glass, which the case back is provided with. It has a "Swan Neck" setting. The emerald green sunray dial, with the two cream sub-counters is beautiful. The domed glass is made of plexiglass and gives a vintage look to this model. A good chronograph at a very low budget to start a collection!

HKED-Seagull 1963

Certainly one of the best value for money emotions. Its vintage look, its movement that flatters the eye and its history make it a must have. Of course it is a chinoiserie, you should not expect exceptional quality. But compared to the price there is nothing to complain about. I have had it for 5 years, it still works impeccably and I really enjoy putting it back on regularly. Its small diameter can be scary but on nato it has a beautiful presence and always arouses a look and questions from people who lay their eyes on it.

An interesting chinoiserie

Watching Ivan on Xavier’s couch finally convinced me to buy the Sea-Gull International Edition 1963. Beyond Ivan’s comments, it was the iconic design of this watch that really appealed to me, including its red star, blued hands, and bright red chronograph. Its excellent value for money and its status as a modern reissue of a legendary chronograph originally designed for the Chinese Air Force also played a key role in my decision.

Classic and elegant design: The champagne dial, with its subdials for the minute track and small seconds, evokes the military style of the 1960s. The blue hands and gold-tone indexes create a striking contrast, while the glass crystal adds a touch of luxury while preserving the watch’s vintage charm. The round 316L stainless steel case, with a diameter of 37.5 mm and a thickness of approximately 15.1 mm, offers a robust yet refined silhouette.

ST1901 Manual Movement: Equipped with a ST1901 manual mechanical movement with 22 jewels, this watch is renowned for its reliability and precision. Its movement operates at a frequency of 21,600 A/h and offers an adequate power reserve for everyday use.

Comfort and dimensions: With a net weight of only 60 g and a canvas strap with a length of approximately 28 cm and a width of 18 mm, this watch is comfortable to wear all day long. Personally, I am not a fan of the Nato strap supplied with the watch, so I opted for a green leather strap, whose stitching recalls the color of the dial. This allows me to admire the movement more easily while offering optimal comfort for everyday use.

Modern finishes: This edition is distinguished by the use of quality materials, such as resistant glass. The transparent case back allows you to observe the movement in action, a real asset for watch enthusiasts.

Military heritage and versatility: Elegant and functional, this watch can be worn in both formal and casual settings. Its water resistance of 3 bar (30 meters) makes it practical for everyday use.

Conclusion: My Sea-Gull 1963 International Edition fuses military heritage with a touch of modernity. For fans of vintage mechanical chronographs, this is an exceptional choice. Its fascinating history and technical performance make it both collectible and practical, while offering excellent value for money.

Sea-Gull 1963: An Iconic Chinese Chronograph

I was looking for a mechanical chronograph, and after some research and videos, I fell in love with the Seagull 1963. This iconic watch, powered by the ST19 movement inspired by the famous Swiss caliber Venus 175, offers exceptional value for money. The Seagull 1963 is a must-have model for enthusiasts and collectors, combining fascinating history, vintage design and mechanical engineering. In 1961, the Chinese government gave the Tianjin Watch Factory a prestigious mission: to design a chronograph to equip the Chinese air force, the PLA Air Force. After two years of development, in 1963, the legendary ST19 chronograph was born. This movement, based on the Venus 175 acquired by China after its production ceased in Switzerland, demonstrates a perfect fusion of Swiss watchmaking know-how and Chinese innovation. The Seagull 1963 seduces with its retro aesthetic: a refined dial, delicately colored hands and remarkable mechanical precision, thanks to its manual winding. More than a watch, it is a true piece of watchmaking history, a tribute to an era when watchmaking was at the crossroads between tradition and innovation.

My SEA-GULL 1963 mechanical chronograph watch

<p><strong>Atelier Jalaper</strong> est une marque horlog&egrave;re franco-belge fond&eacute;e en <strong>2019</strong> par Louis Jalaber et Simon Szleper. Elle se distingue par une approche unique qui fusionne l'horlogerie traditionnelle avec l'h&eacute;ritage automobile en int&eacute;grant des &eacute;l&eacute;ments authentiques de voitures l&eacute;gendaires dans ses montres.</p>
<h3><strong>Origines et Fondation</strong></h3>
<p>Louis Jalaber et Simon Szleper se sont rencontr&eacute;s lors de leurs &eacute;tudes &agrave; l'ESCP Europe, partageant <strong>une passion commune pour l'horlogerie et l'automobile</strong>. Leur ambition &eacute;tait de cr&eacute;er une montre qui ne se contenterait pas de s'inspirer du design automobile, mais qui int&eacute;grerait v&eacute;ritablement une partie de l'histoire automobile. Cette vision les a conduits &agrave; fonder Atelier Jalaper en 2019.</p>
<h3><strong>Concept et Philosophie</strong></h3>
<p>La philosophie d'Atelier Jalaper repose sur l'id&eacute;e de donner une nouvelle vie &agrave; des voitures embl&eacute;matiques en les int&eacute;grant dans des montres de haute qualit&eacute;. Chaque garde-temps est con&ccedil;u avec des cadrans fabriqu&eacute;s &agrave; partir de pi&egrave;ces authentiques de voitures l&eacute;gendaires, offrant ainsi aux passionn&eacute;s une connexion tangible avec l'histoire automobile.</p>
<h3><strong>Collections et Mod&egrave;les</strong></h3>
<p><em>Collection DB5</em></p>
<p>La premi&egrave;re collection d'Atelier Jalaper rend hommage &agrave; l'Aston Martin DB5, une ic&ocirc;ne des ann&eacute;es 1960. Les cadrans de ces montres sont d&eacute;coup&eacute;s dans le capot en aluminium d'une v&eacute;ritable DB5, conf&eacute;rant &agrave; chaque pi&egrave;ce une patine unique. La collection comprend quatre mod&egrave;les :</p>
<ul>
<li><strong>AJ001-S</strong> : Mod&egrave;le avec affichage de la date, bo&icirc;tier en acier inoxydable</li>
<li><strong>AJ001-B</strong> : Version avec bo&icirc;tier en PVD noir</li>
<li><strong>AJ002-S</strong> : Mod&egrave;le avec affichage du jour et de la date, bo&icirc;tier en acier inoxydable</li>
<li><strong>AJ002-B</strong> : Version avec bo&icirc;tier en PVD noir</li>
</ul>
<p>Ces montres sont &eacute;quip&eacute;es de <strong>mouvements automatiques Miyota</strong>, offrant une r&eacute;serve de marche de 42 heures.</p>
<p><em>Collection Miura</em></p>
<p>La deuxi&egrave;me collection s'inspire de la <strong>Lamborghini Miura</strong>, souvent consid&eacute;r&eacute;e comme la premi&egrave;re supercar au monde. Les cadrans sont fabriqu&eacute;s &agrave; partir de pi&egrave;ces authentiques de la Miura, et la collection propose plusieurs variantes :</p>
<ul>
<li><strong>AJ-P400-V</strong> : Version avec r&eacute;haut vert</li>
<li><strong>AJ-P400-N</strong> : Version avec r&eacute;haut noir</li>
<li><strong>AJ-P400-O</strong> : Version avec r&eacute;haut orange</li>
<li><strong>AJ-P400-B</strong> : Version avec r&eacute;haut bleu</li>
</ul>
<p>Ces mod&egrave;les sont anim&eacute;s par des <strong>mouvements &agrave; remontage manuel Sellita SW270-1 M</strong>, offrant une r&eacute;serve de marche d'environ 45 heures.</p>
<p><em>Collection Jaguar Type E</em></p>
<p>La troisi&egrave;me collection s'inspire de la <strong>Jaguar Type E</strong>, l'une des autos les plus reconnaissables entre toutes. Les cadrans sont fabriqu&eacute;s &agrave; partir de pi&egrave;ces authentiques d'une Jaguar Type E semi-lightweight de 1962, et la collection propose deux variantes :</p>
<ul>
<li><strong>AJ-003-B</strong> : Version au cadran stri&eacute;</li>
<li><strong>AJ-003-W</strong> : Version au cadran noir anodis&eacute;</li>
</ul>
<p>Ces mod&egrave;les sont anim&eacute;s par des <strong>mouvements &agrave; remontage automatique Sellita SW300-1</strong>, offrant une r&eacute;serve de marche d'environ 42 heures.</p>
<h3><strong>Processus de Fabrication et Savoir-Faire</strong></h3>
<p>Atelier Jalaper collabore avec des artisans et des experts horlogers bas&eacute;s &agrave; La Chaux-de-Fonds, en Suisse, pour assurer une qualit&eacute; exceptionnelle. Le processus de fabrication implique une d&eacute;coupe pr&eacute;cise <strong>des pi&egrave;ces automobiles pour cr&eacute;er des cadrans uniques,</strong> suivie d'un assemblage minutieux pour garantir la fiabilit&eacute; et l'esth&eacute;tique de chaque montre.</p>
<h3><strong>Engagement envers l'Authenticit&eacute; et l'Innovation</strong></h3>
<p>La marque s'engage &agrave; pr&eacute;server l'authenticit&eacute; des mat&eacute;riaux utilis&eacute;s tout en innovant dans le design et la fonctionnalit&eacute;. Chaque montre est num&eacute;rot&eacute;e et porte en elle l'&acirc;me de la voiture dont elle est issue, offrant aux collectionneurs et aux passionn&eacute;s une pi&egrave;ce de l'histoire automobile &agrave; leur poignet.</p>
<h3><strong>R&eacute;ception et Perspectives d'Avenir</strong></h3>
<p>Depuis son lancement, Atelier Jalaper a re&ccedil;u <strong>des retours positifs pour son concept novateur </strong>et la qualit&eacute; de ses montres. La marque continue d'explorer de nouvelles collaborations avec des voitures l&eacute;gendaires, &eacute;largissant ainsi sa collection et renfor&ccedil;ant sa position unique &agrave; l'intersection de l'horlogerie et de l'automobile.</p>
<p>En conclusion, Atelier Jalaper se distingue par sa capacit&eacute; &agrave; fusionner l'art horloger avec l'h&eacute;ritage automobile, cr&eacute;ant des montres qui racontent une histoire unique et offrent une exp&eacute;rience &eacute;motionnelle aux passionn&eacute;s des deux univers.</p>
<p>Inspirez-vous des <strong>avis clients Dialicious </strong>pour choisir la montre Atelier Jalaper qui vous convient le mieux. D&eacute;couvrez &eacute;galement le <a href="https://www.dialicious.com/top/les_meilleures_marques_de_montres_de_sports_mecaniques">classement des marques de montres inspir&eacute;es du sport automobile</a>.</p>
<p>(Mise &agrave; jour Mars 2025)</p>

<p dir="ltr"><strong>Atelier Jalaper</strong> is a Franco-Belgian watch brand founded in <strong>2019</strong> by Louis Jalaber and Simon Szleper. It is distinguished by a unique approach that merges traditional watchmaking with automotive heritage by integrating authentic elements of legendary cars into its watches.</p>
<h3 dir="ltr">Origins and Foundation</h3>
<p dir="ltr">Louis Jalaber and Simon Szleper met during their studies at ESCP Europe, sharing <strong>a common passion for watchmaking and automobiles</strong>. Their ambition was to create a watch that would not only be inspired by automotive design, but would truly incorporate a part of automotive history. This vision led them to found Atelier Jalaper in 2019.</p>
<h3 dir="ltr">Concept and Philosophy</h3>
<p dir="ltr">Atelier Jalaper's philosophy is based on the idea of ​​giving new life to iconic cars by integrating them into high-quality watches. Each timepiece is designed with dials made from authentic parts from legendary cars, providing enthusiasts with a tangible connection to automotive history.</p>
<h3 dir="ltr">Collections and Models</h3>
<p dir="ltr"><em>Collection DB5</em></p>
<p dir="ltr">Atelier Jalaper's first collection pays homage to the Aston Martin DB5, an icon of the 1960s. The dials of these watches are cut from the aluminum cover of a real DB5, giving each piece a unique patina. The collection includes four models:</p>
<ul>
<li dir="ltr" aria-level="1">
<p dir="ltr" role="presentation"><strong>AJ001-S:</strong> Model with date display, stainless steel case</p>
</li>
<li dir="ltr" aria-level="1">
<p dir="ltr" role="presentation"><strong>AJ001-B:&nbsp;</strong>Version with black PVD case</p>
</li>
<li dir="ltr" aria-level="1">
<p dir="ltr" role="presentation"><strong>AJ002-S:</strong> Model with day and date display, stainless steel case</p>
</li>
<li dir="ltr" aria-level="1">
<p dir="ltr" role="presentation"><strong>AJ002-B:</strong> Version with black PVD case</p>
</li>
</ul>
<p dir="ltr">These watches are equipped with <strong>Miyota automatic movements</strong>, offering a power reserve of 42 hours.</p>
<p dir="ltr"><em>Collection Miura</em></p>
<p dir="ltr">The second collection is inspired by the Lamborghini Miura, often considered the world's first supercar. The dials are made from authentic Miura parts, and the collection offers several variations:</p>
<ul>
<li dir="ltr" aria-level="1">
<p dir="ltr" role="presentation"><strong>AJ-P400-V:</strong> Version with green flange</p>
</li>
<li dir="ltr" aria-level="1">
<p dir="ltr" role="presentation"><strong>AJ-P400-N: </strong>Version with black flange</p>
</li>
<li dir="ltr" aria-level="1">
<p dir="ltr" role="presentation"><strong>AJ-P400-O:</strong> Version with orange flange</p>
</li>
<li dir="ltr" aria-level="1">
<p dir="ltr" role="presentation"><strong>AJ-P400-B:</strong> Version with blue flange</p>
</li>
</ul>
<p dir="ltr">These models are powered by <strong>Sellita SW270-1 M hand-wound movements</strong>, offering a power reserve of approximately 45 hours.</p>
<p dir="ltr"><em>Jaguar E-Type Collection</em></p>
<p dir="ltr">The third collection is inspired by the Jaguar E-Type, one of the most recognizable cars of all. The dials are made from genuine parts from <strong>a 1962&nbsp;Jaguar E-Type semi-lightweight</strong>, and the collection offers two variants:</p>
<ul>
<li dir="ltr" aria-level="1">
<p dir="ltr" role="presentation"><strong>AJ-003-B: </strong>Version with vertically brushed dial</p>
</li>
<li dir="ltr" aria-level="1">
<p dir="ltr" role="presentation"><strong>AJ-003-W:</strong> Version with black anodized dial</p>
</li>
</ul>
<p dir="ltr">These models are driven by <strong>Sellita SW300-1 self-winding movements</strong>, offering a power reserve of approximately 42 hours.</p>
<h3 dir="ltr">Manufacturing Process and Know-How</h3>
<p dir="ltr">Atelier Jalaper collaborates with artisans and watchmaking experts based in La Chaux-de-Fonds, Switzerland, to ensure exceptional quality. The manufacturing process involves precise cutting of automotive parts to create unique dials, followed by careful assembly to ensure the reliability and aesthetics of each watch.</p>
<h3 dir="ltr">Commitment to Authenticity and Innovation</h3>
<p dir="ltr">The brand is committed to preserving the authenticity of the materials used while innovating in design and functionality. Each watch is numbered and carries within it the soul of the car from which it comes, offering collectors and enthusiasts <strong>a piece of automotive history on their wrist</strong>.</p>
<h3 dir="ltr">Reception and Future Prospects</h3>
<p dir="ltr">Since its launch, Atelier Jalaper has received <strong>positive feedback for its innovative concept </strong>and the quality of its watches. The brand continues to explore new collaborations with legendary cars, expanding its collection and strengthening its unique position at the intersection of watchmaking and automobiles.&nbsp;In conclusion, Atelier Jalaper stands out for its ability to merge the art of watchmaking with automotive heritage, creating watches that tell a unique story and offer an emotional experience to enthusiasts of both worlds.</p>
<p dir="ltr">Take inspiration from <strong>Dialicious customer reviews</strong> to choose the Atelier Jalaper watch that suits you best. Also discover the <a href="https://www.dialicious.com/en/top/the_best_brands_of_motor_sports_watches">ranking of watch brands inspired by motorsport</a>.</p>
<p dir="ltr">(Updated March 2025)</p>

<p dir="ltr">The <strong>Sea-Gull 1963</strong> is an iconic watch that embodies Chinese watchmaking history and know-how. Initially designed for the Chinese Air Force, over the decades it has become a symbol of military watchmaking and a prized piece among collectors around the world, particularly for its historic design and affordable price.</p>
<h2 dir="ltr">Origins and Historical Context</h2>
<p dir="ltr">In the 1950s, <strong>China sought to develop its watch industry</strong> to reduce its dependence on foreign imports. In 1955, the Chinese government ordered four watch specialists to produce a national watch for the People's Liberation Army. This initiative led to the creation of the first Chinese watch, known as the WuXing, produced by the Tianjin Watch Factory, which later became Sea-Gull.</p>
<p dir="ltr">In 1961, the Chinese Air Force issued a specific order for a chronograph to equip its pilots. After several prototypes and rigorous testing, official production began in 1963, giving birth to the watch today known as the Sea-Gull 1963.</p>
<h2 dir="ltr">Technical Characteristics and Design</h2>
<p dir="ltr">The Sea-Gull 1963 stands out for its classic design and technical specifications:</p>
<h3 dir="ltr">Housing:</h3>
<p dir="ltr">Initially in stainless steel, with a diameter of 38 mm, adapted to the standards of the time.</p>
<h3 dir="ltr">Dial:</h3>
<p dir="ltr">Champagne color, decorated with gold indexes and hands, with a red star at 12 o'clock, symbolizing the People's Liberation Army.</p>
<h3 dir="ltr">Complications :</h3>
<p dir="ltr">Bicompax chronograph with a small seconds at 9 o'clock and a 30-minute counter at 3 o'clock.</p>
<h3 dir="ltr">Movement :</h3>
<p dir="ltr">Caliber ST19, a mechanical movement with manual winding, <strong>derived from the Swiss caliber Venus 175</strong>. Indeed, China acquired the rights and production machines for the Venus 175 movement, allowing local production and adaptation to military needs.</p>
<h3 dir="ltr">Glass :</h3>
<p dir="ltr">Domed acrylic, offering a vintage aesthetic.</p>
<h3 dir="ltr">Bracelet :</h3>
<p dir="ltr">Olive-colored NATO, reinforcing the military aspect of the watch.</p>
<h2 dir="ltr">Evolution and Reissues</h2>
<p dir="ltr">After its initial production for the army, the Sea-Gull 1963 went through several reissues intended for the general public:</p>
<p dir="ltr">2000s : Faced with collectors' enthusiasm for vintage military watches, Sea-Gull reissued the 1963, retaining its original design while improving certain technical aspects.</p>
<p dir="ltr">Modern Variants : Versions with 40mm and 42mm cases have been introduced to suit contemporary preferences. In addition, options with sapphire crystal and transparent back were offered, allowing you to admire the ST19 movement in action.</p>
<p dir="ltr">Limited Editions : Some reissues were produced in limited quantities, with engraved serial numbers, increasing their appeal to collectors.</p>
<h2 dir="ltr">Cultural Impact and International Recognition</h2>
<p dir="ltr"><strong>The 1963 Sea-Gull became an icon of Chinese watchmaking</strong>, symbolizing the industrial independence and technical know-how of the country. Its unique history and connection with the military make it a sought-after piece by military watch enthusiasts.</p>
<p dir="ltr">Internationally, the 1963 Sea-Gull has gained popularity thanks to its excellent value for money and timeless design. It is often recommended as a first mechanical watch for new collectors, providing an affordable introduction to traditional watchmaking.</p>
<h2 dir="ltr">Conclusion</h2>
<p dir="ltr">The Sea-Gull 1963 is much more than just a watch; she is the testimony to a time when China sought to assert its technological independence. Its elegant design, combined with a rich history, makes it a must-have piece for any watch enthusiast. Today, <strong>it continues to seduce with its vintage charm</strong> and reliable mechanics, perpetuating the heritage of Chinese watchmaking on the international scene.</p>
<p dir="ltr">(Updated November 2024)</p>

Sea-Gull 1963 Owner Review : Historical, racy and elegant

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