Blancpain Villeret Traditional Chinese Calendar 2026

Blancpain ushers in the Year of the Fire Horse with a remarkable 50-piece limited edition of its Villeret Traditional Chinese Calendar. First introduced in 2012 as a world-first integration of Gregorian and Chinese calendar systems, this year’s edition adds a captivating aesthetic twist: a Grand Feu enamel dial in a refined salmon hue. Framed by a classical Villeret platinum case, the piece retains its complex yet balanced display of lunisolar indications while introducing new visual warmth in time for the lunar new year. With deep cultural symbolism, intricate mechanics, and exceptional finishing, this exclusive timepiece embodies Blancpain’s ongoing dedication to tradition and innovation.

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Crafted from 950 platinum, the 45.2mm case of the Blancpain Villeret Traditional Chinese Calendar “Year of the Fire Horse” is both commanding and refined. Its signature double-stepped bezel, rounded contours, and fully polished finish contribute to a classical silhouette, while the substantial 15.1mm height and 52mm lug-to-lug measurement give it notable wrist presence. The contrast between the precious metal’s cool sheen and the dial’s warm salmon hue creates a sophisticated tension, underscoring the model’s balance between tradition and surprise.On the reverse, a sapphire crystal caseback reveals the meticulously finished automatic caliber 3638. The movement is framed by a slim, polished platinum rim with discreet engraving, while the white gold rotor captures the eye with a frosted surface, a raised engraving of a galloping horse over a swallow, and ruby accents flanking the Chinese characters for “horse” and “fire.” The transparency of the caseback offers a clear and immersive view of the movement’s traditional haute horlogerie decorations.At 3 o’clock, a fluted platinum crown allows for manual winding and basic setting, though the watch’s complex functions are adjusted via five patented correctors concealed under the lugs. A cambered sapphire crystal safeguards the front of the watch, offering distortion-free legibility of the densely arranged calendar display. Water-resistance can reach up to 30 meters (100 feet).
The most distinctive feature of this 2026 edition is its radiant salmon-colored Grand Feu enamel dial, a first for Blancpain’s Traditional Chinese Calendar collection. Executed entirely by hand, the warm, glossy surface provides a vibrant yet refined backdrop for the highly complex display. Despite the dense information presented, the dial remains surprisingly harmonious, structured with careful symmetry and thoughtfully positioned elements. Western indications such as the date and moon phase are aligned along a vertical axis, while Chinese calendar functions occupy three balanced sub-dials.White gold Roman numerals are applied around the dial’s central area to mark the hours, supported by small white gold dots at each minute. A blue serpentine hand arcs across the periphery to indicate the Gregorian date, while skeletonized sage-leaf hour and minute hands keep the layout airy and traditional. A small aperture beneath the 12 o’clock marker reveals the current zodiac animal which this year is the Horse, while the moon phase aperture at 6 o’clock adds an emotional counterweight with its signature Blancpain smiling moon face. The level of detail and craftsmanship becomes evident in the delicate relief, polished finishes, and carefully recessed sub-dials. There is no luminescence anywhere on the dial, in keeping with the classical dress watch character. Instead, legibility is ensured through contrasting elements and the rich depth effects of Grand Feu enamel, a technique known for its lasting brilliance and permanence.

The Blancpain Villeret Traditional Chinese Calendar “Year of the Fire Horse” (Ref#: 0888 3432E 55B) is powered by the in-house self-winding mechanical movement, caliber 3638 with 39 jewels, 464 components, and 28,800 vph. It comes equipped with a silicon balance spring and a triple-barrel architecture for enhanced torque stability. Power reserve can last up to 168 hours, when fully wound.
Mounted on this watch is a brown leather strap secured by a white gold pin buckle. The refined leather adds a warm, classic character that underscores the rich salmon tones of the Grand Feu enamel dial while harmonizing elegantly with the platinum case. Soft and supple on the wrist despite the watch’s impressive proportions, the strap enhances the overall wearing experience, lending a sense of stately presence without compromising comfort.The Blancpain Villeret Traditional Chinese Calendar “Year of the Fire Horse” is a limited edition of just 50 pieces. Each watch celebrates the Chinese zodiac’s 2026 cycle with rare craftsmanship and symbolic detailing, ensuring exclusivity for collectors and connoisseurs alike.
For more up to date information visit the official Blancpain website here.