Blancpain Villeret Traditional Chinese Calendar “Year of the Snake”
Blancpain welcomes the Year of the Snake with a stunning new edition of its Villeret Traditional Chinese Calendar, a masterpiece that seamlessly blends Chinese and Gregorian calendar elements. Introduced in 2012, this collection is one of the most mechanically complex interpretations of traditional Chinese timekeeping in haute horlogerie. For 2025, Blancpain unveils its first-ever platinum model with a striking green Grand Feu enamel dial, adding a fresh and luxurious take to this highly coveted series.
The Blancpain Villeret Traditional Chinese Calendar 2025 is housed in a platinum case measuring 45.2mm in diameter and 15.1mm thick, showcasing the refined, polished surfaces characteristic of the Villeret collection. Its signature double-stepped bezel adds a touch of elegance while maintaining the harmonious proportions of the watch.
Flipping the watch over reveals a sapphire crystal caseback, offering a captivating view of the meticulously finished calibre 3638. The white gold rotor is frosted and hand-engraved with the Year of the Snake motif, featuring a detailed serpent coiled elegantly alongside a ruby-set embellishment, adding an extra layer of refinement.
To preserve the clean aesthetics of the case, five patented correctors are discreetly integrated beneath the lugs, allowing for easy adjustments of the calendar functions without disrupting the smooth case lines. This unique mechanism eliminates the need for traditional case-side pushers, maintaining Blancpain’s commitment to seamless design. Water-resistance can reach up to 30 meters (98 feet).
Time is exhibited on a stunning Grand Feu enamel dial in deep green, marking the first time this model pairs a platinum case with this rich, vibrant hue. This luxurious finish provides a striking backdrop for the intricate Chinese calendar displays while ensuring clarity and depth. Applied white gold Roman numerals and dot markers at 12, 3, and 9 o’clock add a touch of classical refinement, while the serpentine central date hand sweeps along a discreet outer track of small Arabic numerals, staying true to the traditional Villeret aesthetic.
At the top of the dial, a small aperture at 12 o’clock reveals the Chinese zodiac animal, which in 2025 is the Year of the Snake. Below it, three symmetrically arranged sub-dials display key elements of the Chinese calendar: the double-hour cycle, lunar months and days, and the presence of an intercalary (leap) month. The five elements of Wood, Fire, Earth, Metal, and Water are also indicated alongside a yin/yang symbol, completing the traditional Chinese timekeeping display.
Anchoring the lower half of the dial is Blancpain’s signature moon phase complication at 6 o’clock, featuring a smiling, hand-painted moon face set within a polished white gold frame. This poetic addition ties together the lunar themes of the Chinese calendar while maintaining the elegance that defines the Villeret collection. Super-LumiNova is absent, keeping the dial faithful to its traditional, high-complication heritage.
Blancpain Villeret Traditional Chinese Calendar “Year of the Snake”
The Blancpain Villeret Traditional Chinese Calendar “Year of the Snake” (Ref#: 0888 3432C 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. Power reserve can last up to 168 hours (7 days), when fully wound.
Mounted on the watch is a brown alligator scaled strap with tone-on-tone stitchings, secured to the wrist by a platinum folding clasp. This is a limited edition of only 50 numbered pieces. For more up to date information visit the official Blancpain website here.
MSRP: $87,800.00 USD
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