www.blajournal.com

Awake Expands Son Mai Frosted Leaf Collection with New Vibrant Models

August 27

Awake is expanding its Son Mai Frosted Leaf series by introducing three new variations: Storm, Blood Moon, and Lagoon. These latest additions further the brand's exploration of traditional Asian artistry, combining Vietnamese Son Mai lacquer techniques with delicate silver leaf embellishments for their dials. The new timepieces are housed in a more refined 38mm case, a subtle reduction from the original 39mm, reflecting a commitment to both aesthetics and wearer comfort. Each model is a testament to meticulous craftsmanship, showcasing vibrant color palettes and a bespoke handwritten logo that underscores their handmade character.

These watches are not merely aesthetic marvels; they are also engineered with precision. They feature the reliable La Joux-Perret G101 automatic movement, visible through a sapphire caseback, which boasts a custom-made tungsten rotor with exquisite finishes. The dials, with their intricate layers of lacquer and natural pigments, are illuminated by Super-LumiNova BGW9, ensuring legibility while adding a subtle glow. Paired with handmade nubuck calfskin straps that match the dial colors, these new Frosted Leaf models are a significant offering in Awake's permanent collection, representing a fusion of traditional art and contemporary horology.

The Refined Aesthetics and Craftsmanship of New Frosted Leaf Models

Awake's latest expansion of the Son Mai Frosted Leaf series introduces three captivating models: Storm, Blood Moon, and Lagoon, each distinguished by its unique color palette and meticulous artisanal details. The Storm variant merges black and orange, the Blood Moon features a deep red and black combination, and the Lagoon model captivates with layers of blue and green. These vibrant hues are achieved through the brand's signature Vietnamese Son Mai lacquerwork, a process that involves multiple layers of lacquer, natural pigments, and pure silver leaf, requiring approximately 15 hours of dedicated craftsmanship for each dial. This intricate technique, inherited from Asian métiers d’art traditions, imbues each watch face with a depth and luminosity that is truly unique.

Beyond the striking dials, the new Frosted Leaf watches are also notable for their thoughtfully redesigned case. Now presented in a 38mm steel case with a 44.75mm lug-to-lug distance and an 11.5mm thickness, these models offer a more compact and elegant profile than their predecessors. The case features a blend of polished and satin-finished surfaces, complemented by a slightly curved sapphire crystal and a screw-down crown and caseback, ensuring a water resistance of 100m. A distinctive new handwritten logo adorns these watches, further emphasizing the artisanal nature of their creation and enhancing their unique handmade appeal. The hands and indexes are crafted from polished, brushed, and faceted steel, integrating Super-LumiNova BGW9 that glows from underneath, providing enhanced legibility without compromising the dial's intricate beauty. Each element, from the delicate 'millefeuille' construction of the dial to the luminous 'coiffe' for diffused light, contributes to a cohesive design that celebrates both artistic heritage and functional elegance.

Precision Engineering and Exclusive Details in the Son Mai Collection

Underpinning the artistic facade of the new Son Mai Frosted Leaf collection lies a foundation of robust and precise engineering. All three models—Storm, Blood Moon, and Lagoon—are powered by the automatic La Joux-Perret G101 movement. This high-performance caliber operates at 28,800 vibrations per hour (4Hz) and provides a substantial 68-hour power reserve, ensuring reliable and accurate timekeeping. The movement's sophisticated architecture is made visible through a sapphire caseback, allowing enthusiasts to appreciate the intricate mechanics within. Awake has further enhanced this view by incorporating a custom-made tungsten rotor, distinguished by its polished, brushed, and bead-blasted finishes, alongside an engraved and decorated rehaut, adding an extra layer of refinement to the watch’s internal aesthetics. This commitment to both outward beauty and internal excellence highlights Awake’s dedication to producing timepieces that are as functionally impressive as they are visually stunning.

Each watch in this collection is paired with a luxurious, handmade Maison Bouveret nubuck calfskin strap, meticulously matched to the specific dial color of each variant—orange for Storm, red for Blood Moon, and blue for Lagoon. These straps are designed for both comfort and durability, featuring a rubberized calfskin lining and tone-on-tone stitching. Practicality is also a key consideration, with curved quick-release spring bars facilitating easy strap changes and a new Fitwell M1 micro-adjustment ardillon buckle offering a secure and customizable fit. As a permanent fixture in Awake’s collection, approximately 100 pieces of each version are produced annually, making them a coveted item for collectors. Priced at EUR 2,820, inclusive of taxes and shipping, these exquisite timepieces are scheduled for delivery in the final week of September 2026, offering a unique opportunity to own a piece that beautifully marries traditional craftsmanship with modern horological advancements.

latest news

Maison Alcée & MB&F Unveil the Nostromo Clock Kit
August 26

Maison Alcée & MB&F Unveil the Nostromo Clock Kit

Maison Alcée and MB&F have collaborated to create the Nostromo, a unique DIY high-horology clock kit designed by Maximilian Maertens. Inspired by the extraterrestrial aesthetic of the Alien film, this limited-edition kit allows enthusiasts to build their own intricate clock, featuring a 14-day power reserve, angled time display, and hour chime, while immersing themselves in the art of watchmaking.

F.P. Journe Shines Brightest at Inaugural Wynn Las Vegas Watch Summit
August 26

F.P. Journe Shines Brightest at Inaugural Wynn Las Vegas Watch Summit

The first-ever 'Time at Wynn' event in Las Vegas successfully brought together 150 elite watch collectors and eight luxury brands for an intimate gathering. This exclusive summit featured panel discussions, previews of new timepieces, and networking opportunities. Independent watchmaking, particularly F.P. Journe, dominated conversations, highlighting a growing trend in the luxury watch market. The event underscored the shift from traditional dealership practices to a passion-driven collecting culture.

Force Blue and Luminox Partner for Miami Reef Restoration
August 26

Force Blue and Luminox Partner for Miami Reef Restoration

Luminox collaborates with Force Blue to support marine conservation, specifically coral reef restoration in Miami. The partnership also aids veterans by engaging them in meaningful environmental work. This article details a dive experience with the team and highlights the new Pacific Diver watch, symbolizing their shared commitment.

The Business of Watches Podcast: Geneva Watch Days with Jean-Christophe Babin
August 26

The Business of Watches Podcast: Geneva Watch Days with Jean-Christophe Babin

In this episode of The Business of Watches podcast, Jean-Christophe Babin, former CEO of Bulgari and President of Geneva Watch Days, discusses the origins and unique appeal of Geneva Watch Days. He highlights its accessible, community-focused approach, contrasting it with more exclusive industry events. With 71 participating brands, GWD offers a platform for both established and boutique watchmakers.

Bell & Ross Unveils the BR-X5 Meteorite Edition
August 26

Bell & Ross Unveils the BR-X5 Meteorite Edition

Bell & Ross introduces a striking new version of its BR-X5, featuring a unique grey meteorite dial. This limited-edition timepiece, powered by a Kenissi manufacture movement, combines robust construction with celestial aesthetics. The 41mm stainless steel case maintains the BR-X5's signature multi-part design, offering a blend of sporty elegance and aviation-inspired precision. With a 70-hour power reserve and COSC certification, this watch is a testament to both design innovation and horological excellence, appealing to collectors and enthusiasts alike with its distinct visual appeal and technical prowess.

Ming's New 57.05 'Comet' Worldtime: A Breakthrough in Global Timekeeping
August 26

Ming's New 57.05 'Comet' Worldtime: A Breakthrough in Global Timekeeping

Ming introduces the 57.05 'Comet' Worldtime, a groundbreaking timepiece featuring a patent-pending Daylight Saving Time (DST) adjustment bezel. This innovative watch combines a stylish design with a unique world time complication, allowing users to easily adjust for DST changes. With its intricate dial, luminous elements, and robust movement, the 'Comet' represents a fusion of aesthetic appeal and advanced functionality, reinforcing Ming's reputation for innovation in horology.