Some watches impress with their technical specifications, leaving the rest to your discretion.
The new ArtyA Complexity doesn't seem to be one of those. Yes, the title is loud, and yes, it will undoubtedly attract attention at the Watches and Wonders exhibition next week. However, the first thing that stands out is the absence of the feeling that the watch is built around one bright idea with subsequent empty content. This is important because there is truly a lot of interesting features here. ArtyA opens Watches and Wonders 2026 with a watch featuring two inclined tourbillons linked by a differential, housed in a new sapphire case. The release is limited to just nine pieces.
On paper, these sound like watches that might seem overloaded. However, based on the provided images, the model looks much more restrained. The visual impact is certainly present, but there is a discipline in the composition. For such a watch, this is of great importance.
Two Inclined Tourbillons - More Than Just Numbers
Before delving into the design, it's worth understanding what ArtyA is implementing. The brand uses the term “cônillon” to describe its inclined tourbillon system, with one placed on each side of the dial in the Complexity. It's important to note that ArtyA didn't just install two inclined tourbillons in one watch and stop there. They are linked by a differential, which balances the energy distribution between the two regulators. This is what makes the watch more interesting to me. Many complex mechanisms seem to be just a demonstration of technical capabilities. But here, there is a clear mechanical idea. The appeal lies not only in the two inclined tourbillons but in the overall concept of the system. Whether such watches are bought for pure chronometry is another question, but the logic here is important. It gives the watch depth.
The manual caliber Complexity-01 operates at a frequency of 3 Hz, with a power reserve of 50 hours, and consists of 287 components, including 44 jewels. Each inclined tourbillon completes a full rotation in 30 seconds, providing active movement on the wrist that does not go unnoticed.
The Case Sets the Tone for Complexity
Despite the technical complexity of the mechanism, the case is perhaps the key element that makes the watch cohesive. ArtyA has developed a new sapphire form with a triple concave central segment and two domes - at the 12 and 6 o'clock positions, located directly above the inclined tourbillons. This could quickly turn into excess, but instead, the case provides the mechanical elements with the necessary space, making the model particularly appealing. The case doesn't look like just a transparent shell around a complex mechanism - a common design mistake if not handled with confidence, as ArtyA has done. Here, the case seems to have been created specifically for the mechanism from the start, which is necessary for a watch of this level. Otherwise, it remains just a spectacular show.
The curved sides, domed sapphire sections, and overall shape of the case work together to frame the mechanism correctly. There's plenty to see, but the design doesn't seem overloaded - a rare achievement for a watch with such complex mechanics. The case dimensions - 42 mm wide, 48 mm long, and 13 mm thick - appear quite restrained, considering the complexity of the design. The watch maintains its presence on the wrist but doesn't look bulky or awkward, which would be easy to expect.
The Dial Brings All Elements Together
The dial does more work than might initially appear. With such a mechanism, it would be easy to open up all the space and let the mechanics dominate the front panel. ArtyA did not do this. Instead, the dial gives the watch structure, and this is one of the main reasons for the model's visual success. Two dial options are offered: Griffe with a radiant engraved pattern and a matte one with uniform sandblasting. Both options feature polished applied indices and seem designed to emphasize the open windows of the inclined tourbillons, rather than compete with them. Personally, I have a slight preference for the Griffe dial - I usually prefer matte surfaces, but the Griffe has a special character that resonates more with me.
Overall, the dial design seems like the right solution. Without such architecture, the Complexity could easily have turned into a watch where the mechanics dominate without balance. Here, a clear visual center is maintained. For me, the purest version is the transparent sapphire case with a silver dial, as seen in the initial images. This allows the case shape and mechanics to speak for themselves. Nevertheless, the appeal of the “Pigeon’s Blood” ruby case is obvious for those who prefer more expressive watches.
Four Versions, Nine Unique Pieces
ArtyA offers the Complexity in two case options - clear sapphire or “Pigeon’s Blood” ruby, combined with Griffe or Matte dials. The sapphire models come with silver dials, and the ruby ones with anthracite. All four versions are equipped with rubber straps with curved ends and ArtyA clasps. Production is strictly limited to nine numbered pieces regardless of configuration. Prices start at 190,000 Swiss francs for the sapphire version and reach 220,000 francs for the ruby one. This is the expected price range for such complex, limited, and difficult-to-manufacture watches.
Final Impressions and Expectations
I will form my final opinion after seeing the Complexity in person, as watches with sapphire cases, unusual shapes, and constantly moving regulators often perceive differently in reality - often even better than in press photos. But at first glance, the model makes a strong impression. I particularly like that it doesn't rely on one striking element to carry the entire concept. The two inclined tourbillons are an obvious focal point, but the case, dial, and layout support this idea. It seems simple, but it never is. The Complexity still feels like an ArtyA watch - expressive, technical, and visually striking. Yet they appear thoughtful, and that’s what makes them memorable. I look forward to the chance to see them in person at Watches and Wonders next week!
