Exciting news for watch enthusiasts and collectors! Chinese watchmaker Atelier Wen, led by two esteemed French horologists, has just unveiled its latest creation: the Perception Millésime x Purple Dial. This watch marks the inaugural release in Atelier Wen’s annual “Millésime” series, specifically crafted to give avid fans another chance at a limited edition timepiece that they might have missed out on due to previous restrictions.

Unlike earlier collaborations that adhered to fixed production limits, the Millésime series is a community-driven initiative where the wishes and preferences of Atelier Wen's loyal supporters take center stage. The brand previously discontinued its Porcelain Odyssey series, so the baton now passes to a sporty model within the popular Perception line. This release boldly pioneers Atelier Wen’s first non-collaborative limited edition – a more democratized access for the brand's devotees!

Unveiling the Perception Millésime Mù

Named “Mù,” symbolizing "amity" or "kinship," this striking watch features a robust grade 5 titanium case, ensuring a water resistance of up to 100m. Measuring a sleek 40mm wide and only 9.4mm thick (including the double-domed sapphire crystal), the design remains consistent with the brand's aesthetic of refined brushed and polished finishes. Notably, the screw-down crown prominently showcases the brand's logo, while the distinctive case back reveals a semi-display window showcasing the intricate movement, embellished with a raised stone lion and hammered detail.

What truly sets the Millésime apart is its stunning guilloché dial, handcrafted by Cheng Yucai, China’s sole guilloché master. The vivid purple finish features a unique *écaille de poisson* (fish scales) motif that changes in tone depending on the light. The intricate details are complemented by Super-LumiNova X1 grade elements for enhanced visibility, with subtle rhodium-plated hour indices and luminous hands for easy readability. Atelier Wen's precision in watchmaking is evident in every detail, particularly in the hand-bent minute and seconds hands.

A Movement to Admire

The heart of this unique timepiece lies in its customized Dandong SL1588A automatic movement, which operates at a frequency of 28,800 vibrations per hour. It boasts a power reserve of 41 hours, adorned with exquisite Geneva stripes and perlage decorations, polished jewel and screw sinks, and stunning heat-blued screws. The caseback offers a limited view of this beautifully crafted movement, featuring a delightful purple lacquered logo distinguishing this exclusive edition.

Comfort Meets Style

Attuned for wearability, the Perception’s titanium bracelet tapers from 22mm at the lugs to 18mm at the clasp. Each link features elegant chamfered edges, coordinating seamlessly with the watch's polished surfaces. The deployant clasp integrates a micro-adjustment system and quick-exchange mechanism, permitting effortless swaps for a complementary rubber strap that also comes with a folding clasp.

Pre-Order and Special Surprises Await!

Mark your calendars! The Atelier Wen Perception Millésime will be available for pre-order starting October 7, 2024, for an exclusive two-week window, priced at $3,588 (excluding VAT). As a delightful incentive, the first 88 online customers and those reserving units at international exhibitions will receive a luxurious full-grain leather strap tailored explicitly for this watch.

But wait, there's more! To amplify the excitement as deliveries anticipate for May 2025, Atelier Wen plans to randomly select three lucky customers to receive an extraordinary full-tantalum prototype of the Perception Millésime, inspired by the magic of Willy Wonka’s golden ticket. While the official watch will be titanium, this rare version in tantalum is a considerable feat given the material’s challenging machining properties.

Conclusion

The Atelier Wen Perception Millésime Titanium x Purple Dial is not just a timepiece; it’s an embodiment of community wishes and modern horological art. With its perfect fusion of aesthetic brilliance and technical craftsmanship, it beckons watch enthusiasts to partake in the unique experience it promises. Don’t miss your chance to own a piece of Atelier Wen’s remarkable journey!