Arnold & Son is ushering in the auspicious and tranquil year of 2024, according to the traditional Chinese calendar, with an exquisite blend of majestic dragon symbolism and artistic craftsmanship. The Luna Magna Red Gold “Year of the Dragon” showcases the convergence of fine watchmaking, miniature sculpture, and gemstone craftsmanship in two distinct versions. This limited edition, comprising only eight pieces, captures a captivating encounter between a dragon and the moon.
The Wooden Dragon, reigning from February 10, 2024, embodies calm determination and the natural ardor of the mighty reptile, tempered by the influence of wood. A year characterized by introspection, control, negotiation, and generosity, it is eagerly anticipated and duly celebrated by Arnold & Son through the Luna Magna Red Gold “Year of the Dragon.”
Harmony of Gemstones
In adherence to the cherished tradition of decorative horology, Arnold & Son dedicates this year to a “Chinese Zodiac” limited edition within the Luna Magna collection. With both versions limited to eight pieces each, these timepieces feature a prominent moon crafted from red gold (5N) and either pietersite or onyx, engaged in a face-to-face encounter with an imposing dragon in the same gold.
The expansive dial, upon which the dragon gracefully lands, is a wide disc composed of the same stone as the three-dimensional moon—pietersite or onyx. The former displays blue veining, while the latter boasts a smooth, glossy black surface. The off-center dial indicating hours and minutes is crafted from white opal, a signature Arnold & Son gemstone.
Curved Elegance of the Dragon
Sculpted from red gold (5N), mirroring the material of the enclosing case, the dragon is intricately hand-engraved, transforming the watch into a true objet d’art. The mythical creature’s powerful body coils around the dial, culminating in its head reflected in the grand moon.
With meticulously rendered scales, claws, whiskers, and horns, this oriental-style dragon directs its gaze toward the three-dimensional globe displaying the moon phases on the Luna Magna Red Gold “Year of the Dragon.” The sphere holds a dual significance, symbolizing both the moon, guiding the Chinese calendar’s cycles, and the elusive pearl of wisdom inseparable from the dragon’s ceaseless pursuit.
In a nod to the Middle Kingdom, the straps’ lining is meticulously crafted from red alligator leather.
Mechanical Mastery
The Luna Magna Red Gold “Year of the Dragon” is equipped with the A&S1021 caliber, a manually-wound movement entirely developed, produced, assembled, and adjusted at the Arnold & Son manufacture. Specifically designed around the lunar globe, this caliber provides a substantial 90-hour power reserve and features a regulating organ oscillating at a frequency of 3 Hz.
The case back hosts a secondary display showcasing the moon’s age, complete with legible graduations allowing for exceptionally precise adjustment of the lunar globe. The celestial mechanism’s sophistication is further underscored by its strict astronomical accuracy, aligning closely with the lunar cycle’s duration of 29 days, 12 hours, 44 minutes, and 2.8 seconds.
Arnold & Son’s meticulous craftsmanship ensures a remarkable level of precision, with a mere 24-hour discrepancy accumulating over 122 years. The moon function on the Luna Magna Red Gold “Year of the Dragon” is conveniently accessible through the crown, showcasing Arnold & Son’s absolute mastery of the watchmaking process.
For more information, please visit ArnoldAndSon.com.