Atelier Wen Awakens the Dragon with 蛟 (JIĀO)

The inaugural model in the Ancestra dress watch collection, 蛟 (JIĀO), is deeply rooted in myth and material mastery. Its sculptural 904L stainless steel case draws inspiration from the flowing forms of Hongshan jade dragon carvings (猪龙, zhū lóng)—the earliest known depictions of dragons—blending ancient symbolism with modern elegance. Measuring 38mm in diameter and 11.3mm in height, the case features sharply curved, screwed lugs for a comfortable fit across all wrists.

At its centre lies a fumé grand feu enamel dial that fades from pale silvery blue to deep cobalt. Beneath the enamel, a fine-silver base is hand-hammered to create a texture reminiscent of deep ocean waters, alluding to the dragon’s mythical return to its aquatic domain. The dial features alternating indices in two complementary styles: Chinese calligraphic numerals by Elaine Wong and Western-Arabic markers by Lee Yuen-Rapati—both inspired by bamboo leaf calligraphy. Baguette-cut diamonds mark alternate hours, framed by a distinctive 回纹 (huí wén) minute track. The tri-planed hour and minute hands add further depth with micro-hammered tops and polished, concave edges.

On the reverse, the customised Pequignet EPM003 movement is visible through an open caseback—a first for the brand. Surrounding the movement is a 446-character micro-etched verse, inspired by 天问 (tiān wèn or Heavenly Questions) by Qu Yuan. Laser-engraved in concentric rings, the poetic engraving explores ancient Chinese myth and cosmic thought, offering a philosophical counterpoint to 蛟 (JIĀO)’s design and craftsmanship.