The pursuit of perfection - this is how the approach of Arion's founder, Eric Tillman, can be described.
Meet the Arion Delphinus - the debut model featuring a seven-day mechanical Chronode caliber housed in a titanium case measuring 37 × 8.5 mm, crafted by the Voutilainen & Cattin workshop. Tillman's goal is to create timeless, high-quality watches with an elegant and graceful touch. The Melian Pearl variant, with a natural mother-of-pearl dial and unique patterns, is the best example of this concept. At the same time, the Ichthyian Silver and Aeolian Blue versions showcase a confident individual style, combining mid-20th century nostalgia with modern features.
Design and Case Features of Arion Delphinus
With a case diameter of 37 mm and a thickness of 8.5 mm, all three Arion Delphinus variations fall into the dress watch category. The design is inspired by mid-20th century aesthetics, complemented by modern details. One such detail is the water resistance of 5 atmospheres (50 meters), but this is just one of the features.
Partnership with Voutilainen & Cattin, Chronode, and Delugs: Expertise in Every Element
Choosing grade 5 titanium for classic watches is a modern solution. To ensure the highest quality, Eric Tillman entrusted the case manufacturing to the specialists at Voutilainen & Cattin. In this workshop, the lightweight yet durable titanium receives a polished finish with exceptional attention to detail.
The aim is to achieve a deep and captivating shine reminiscent of platinum. Ordering the case from Voutilainen & Cattin was a sensible decision, allowing for the creation of a thin, elegant, and almost weightless case. However, this affects the watch's price - more on that in the pricing section. But first, let's consider the impressive movement installed in the three Delphinus versions.
Movement of Arion Delphinus Melian Pearl
The energy source of Delphinus is a specially developed version of the Chronode C101 movement with manual winding and a seven-day power reserve. This caliber, with a frequency of 3 Hz and 29 jewels, has a diameter of 31.1 mm and a thickness of just 3.98 mm. The movement not only powers the watch but also serves as a canvas for artisanal decoration.
Through the sapphire crystal case back, you can see the curved Côtes de Genève stripes, hand-applied anglage, and striking sandblasted finish on the gold plate. If these decorations remind you of antique pocket watches, you're right. However, Tillman did not aim to copy the past - he added a unique element. That's why the gears of the movement feature Arion dolphins inspired by the Pantheon fountain in Rome.
Prototype Movement Without Full Finishing
The Arion Delphinus strap by Delugs is made from premium alligator leather from the side of the animal. The color is a deep and glossy Lagoon Blue, harmonizing with all three dial variations. The lining is made from soft light gray Chèvre leather, ensuring comfort and durability.
Dial Variations: Melian Pearl, Ichthyian Silver, and Aeolian Blue
As mentioned, Delphinus is available in three variations:
- Melian Pearl - a soft, natural mother-of-pearl shade with a unique sheen;
- Ichthyian Silver - a silver dial transitioning from charcoal to bright silver hues;
- Aeolian Blue - dynamic shades from bright blue to deep navy, inspired by the Mediterranean.
On the dial, rhodium-plated hour markers are set, matching the signature dauphine hands and an elegant snake-shaped second hand. The unique typography is based on a 1776 poster dedicated to William Hamilton's antique collection. This historical touch gives the dial depth and character.
Production and Price of Arion Delphinus
The production of the three Delphinus variants will take about eight months due to the high level of customization and quality. The watch comes with a seven-year warranty from the date of purchase. As for the cost, the Ichthyian Silver and Aeolian Blue models will be priced at 24,000 USD, while the Melian Pearl variant will be 28,000 USD. Although the price is quite high, it is justified by quality and exclusivity. Those interested in purchasing one of the 30 pieces can contact through Arion's official website.
Eric Tillman has set a high bar with the three Arion Delphinus models, and judging by the photos and technical specifications, he has achieved it. The final judgment can only be made after a personal encounter with the watch. Hopefully, there will soon be an opportunity to conduct a hands-on test. What is your opinion? Share in the comments.
Technical Specifications of Arion Delphinus
| Parameter | Description |
|---|---|
| Dial | Mother-of-pearl (Melian Pearl), sunburst silver (Ichthyian Silver), glossy blue (Aeolian Blue) with additional small seconds, rhodium-plated numerals, and star-shaped indices |
| Case Material | Grade 5 titanium with polished finish |
| Case Dimensions | 37 mm (diameter) × 8.5 mm (thickness) |
| Case Back | Grade 5 titanium and sapphire crystal, secured with six screws |
| Movement | Special Chronode C101: manual winding, frequency 21,000 vph (3 Hz), 7-day power reserve, 29 jewels, diameter 31.1 mm, thickness 3.98 mm, sandblasted gold base, curved Côtes de Genève stripes, hand anglage on bridges, polished balance, engraving on gears |
| Water Resistance | 5 ATM (50 meters) |
| Strap | Lagoon Blue alligator leather by Delugs with light gray Chèvre leather lining, polished titanium clasp |
| Functions | Time only (hours, minutes, small seconds) |
| Price | 24,000 USD (Ichthyian Silver and Aeolian Blue) / 28,000 USD (Melian Pearl) |
| Warranty | 7 years from date of purchase |
| Features | Limited edition - 10 pieces per variant |