Dragon Watches iN 2024
In recent times, there has been a notable surge in watchmakers unveiling exceptional and truly exclusive timepieces in honor of the Lunar New Year. As the lunar calendar transitions on February 10 to the Year of the Wood Dragon, this event marks a significant period. The Dragon zodiac, celebrated every 12 years, gains a unique significance as its associated wood element completes its cycle every 60 years. Known for its boldness and charm, the Dragon's influence is further enhanced by its imaginative prowess when paired with the wood element. This year has seen a wide array of dragon-inspired watches, and we’ve handpicked six exceptional models that perfectly capture the essence of the upcoming Lunar New Year.
Chopard L.U.C XP Urushi Year of the Dragon
Chopard's tradition of releasing an L.U.C XP Urushi watch for each Lunar New Year continues in 2024, with their creations often being a highlight. However, the Year of the Dragon edition presents a notable design flaw: the Chopard logo positioned below 12 o'clock disrupts the depiction of the dragon, particularly affecting the visibility of its head and neck. This oversight is especially problematic as it involves the primary feature of the design, a fundamental aspect of thoughtful design.
Despite this issue, the watch remains a remarkable representation of the imperial dragon, crafted using the traditional Urushi lacquer technique by the renowned Japanese artisan Minori Koizumi. This edition is further enhanced by the inclusion of a mother-of-pearl disc, which the dragon appears to be clutching. Consistent with previous releases, the watch features a 39.5mm gold case and is powered by the L.U.C 96.17-L micro-rotor movement. For more information about this timepiece click here.
Bell & Ross BR 05 Artline Dragon
Bell & Ross have taken the art of engraving to new heights with their dragon-themed timepiece. The watch is adorned with intricate engravings across its entirety, featuring a dragon's head on the dial and its sinuous body extending along the integrated bracelet. True to the iconic Bell & Ross aesthetic, the BR 05 Artline is housed in a distinctive rounded square case.
Powering the watch is the brand's BR.CAL-321 movement, a Bell & Ross adaptation of the reliable Sellita SW-300 and ETA 2892-2 mechanisms. Crafted with a monochrome steel case and dial, protected by a sapphire crystal, and offering 100 meters of water resistance, the BR 05 Artline masterfully blends artistic excellence with everyday functionality and resilience.For more information about this timepiece click here.
Blancpain Villeret Traditional Chinese Calendar “Year of the Dragon”
This year, the Wood Dragon ushers in a fresh zodiac cycle for Blancpain, marking approximately 12 years since the brand unveiled its groundbreaking Villeret Traditional Chinese Calendar. This remarkable watch combined the Chinese lunar and Gregorian calendars, enhanced by a moon phase feature. In celebration of this anniversary, Blancpain has refreshed the model with new colors and design elements.
Previously, the watch was showcased in a platinum case with a pristine white Grand Feu enamel dial, crowned with a ruby cabochon. The latest iteration boasts a rich dark green dial set in an 18k polished red gold case, with the crown featuring distinctive embossed branding. The choice of dial color thoughtfully reflects the wood element of this year's zodiac, adding a layer of symbolism. This is a limited edition of only 50 exclusive pieces. For more information about this timepiece click here.
IWC Portugieser Chronograph Year of the Dragon
The IWC Portugieser Chronograph Year of the Dragon presents a subtle nod to 2024's zodiac sign, donning a color scheme rich with significance for the Lunar New Year. The traditional vibrant red and bright yellow gold often associated with joy, prosperity, and longevity are elegantly reimagined on the watch's face in shades of deep burgundy and warm honey gold.
To discover the dragon, one must look to the back of the watch. Here, set against the stainless steel case, the dragon is delicately hand-engraved on a gold-plated rotor, offering a glimpse of the 69355 caliber beneath. The timepiece is paired with a sleek black calfskin strap, and for those looking to embrace the festive mood fully, it also includes an option for a textured burgundy red rubber strap. For more information about this timepiece click here.
TAG Heuer Carrera Chronograph Year of the Dragon
Tag Heuer adopts a contrasting color palette for their Carrera Chronograph Year of the Dragon, compared to the special edition Portugieser, showcasing an 18k rose gold dial and case accented with wine-colored subdials and details.
The dial prominently displays the Chinese character for "dragon" at its center, and a dragon illustration adorns the sapphire display caseback. Additionally, a stainless steel variant is offered, featuring an attractive sunray dial. For more information about this timepiece click here.
MSRP: $22,550.00 USD - iN 18k Rose Gold
Jaeger-LeCoultre Reverso Tribute Enamel Dragon
In celebration of the Wood Dragon year, Jaeger-LeCoultre unveils its latest Reverso Tribute model, echoing the Lunar New Year's essence. Following the 2022 Year of the Tiger edition, this new version boasts a finely engraved Chinese dragon, now accompanied by golden clouds, highlighting the brand's commitment to exquisite craftsmanship. The intricate dragon engraving, a testament to the skill of the artisans at the Manufacturer's Métiers Rares workshop, demanded 80 hours of meticulous handwork.
Encased in the iconic Art Deco design of the Reverso, this edition is crafted in 18k pink gold, featuring the dragon engraving on a polished enamel background. The Jaeger-LeCoultre Reverso Tribute Enamel Dragon stands as a sophisticated tribute to the Lunar New Year, offered exclusively through a made-to-order service. For more information about this timepiece click here.
