The Jaquet Droz Luo River Automaton is a unique timepiece inspired by an ancient scroll from 222 AD. This watch blends tradition with innovation, featuring a remarkable automaton and exquisite craftsmanship.
Collaboration and Inspiration
Jaquet Droz collaborated with Chinese artist Wang Limin, a master of traditional gold thread embroidery. Known as a living national treasure of China, Wang Limin inspired the Luo River Automaton with themes of time's fluidity, eternal love, and the human quest for immortality. The watch draws inspiration from an ancient scroll with a poem dated 222 AD.
Design and Dial Features
The centerpiece of the Luo River Automaton is its mother-of-pearl dial, which completes a full rotation every 30 seconds, mimicking the flow of water. It is adorned with hand-carved gold water lilies, one of which features a stone that changes color from purple sapphire to emerald. Animated elements move subtly every 10 seconds.
Automaton Mechanism
Opposite the inlaid water lily swims the mythical Kun fish, completing a full rotation in 30 seconds. The automaton's animated elements can operate continuously for up to 4 minutes powered by two mainspring barrels. Owners can pause the automaton by pressing a button at the 3 o'clock position to conserve energy.
Additional Design Elements
The dial composition includes a stationary sub-dial made from imperial jade, featuring red gold hands. Above it, a complex structure of red gold depicts water dragons pulling a winged chariot. This assembly is stabilized and appears to float, with reins and bridles detailed to a tenth of a millimeter and hand-painted.
Case and Strap Details
The Luo River Automaton comes with four handmade fabric strap options and a custom case. Housed in a 43 mm 750 red gold case, it features an automatic movement with a 68-hour power reserve and a silicon balance spring.
Exclusivity
The engraving on the case back indicates that the Jaquet Droz Luo River Automaton is a unique piece.
Jaquet Droz Luo River Automaton Specifications
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Case Diameter | 43 mm |
| Material | 750 Red Gold |
| Power Reserve | 68 hours |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Jaquet Droz Luo River Automaton?
The Jaquet Droz Luo River Automaton is a unique watch inspired by an ancient scroll from 222 AD, featuring intricate automaton elements and artistry.
How does the automaton in the Luo River Automaton work?
The automaton includes animated elements powered by two mainspring barrels, completing cycles in 30 seconds and operating for up to 4 minutes.
What materials are used in the Jaquet Droz Luo River Automaton?
The watch features a 43 mm 750 red gold case and a mother-of-pearl dial, with handcrafted gold elements and a silicon balance spring.