Discover the Vibrant Appeal of the Awake Sơn Mài Frosted Leaf Royal Red
Just when you thought Awake had unveiled all its secrets with the stunning Sơn Mài dials, the Frosted Leaf Royal Red comes along to exceed expectations. This new release builds on techniques refined in previous models while introducing a captivating multi-dimensional aesthetic. Let’s delve into the creative process and the final masterpiece.
As someone who was initially unfamiliar with the Sơn Mài technique, I’m continually fascinated by the endless possibilities of design, color, and texture. Awake expertly combines deliberate patterns with unique pieces, and the Frosted Leaf Royal Red belongs to the latter category of individual artistry. Ready to take a closer look?
Unveiling the Awake Sơn Mài Frosted Leaf Royal Red
The latest addition to the Sơn Mài collection dazzles with its vibrant red dial, accented by elegant gold highlights. Before diving into the details, let’s check out some key specifications. The watch features a 39mm by 45.6mm case crafted from fully recycled 316L stainless steel, topped with a sapphire crystal that has an anti-reflective coating for optimal clarity. With a total thickness of 11.8mm and a water resistance rating of 50 meters, it’s built for both style and durability. In collaboration with celebrated French brand Maison Bouveret, the watch comes on a 20mm red suede strap lined with rubberized calfskin, secured by a stainless steel pin buckle for a snug fit.
The Artistry of Vietnamese Lacquerware
We’ve previously explored how artisans create the beautiful Sơn Mài dials, but the Frosted Leaf Royal Red takes a unique approach by reversing the traditional process. Typically, silver leaf is the first layer, but here it crowns the design, showcasing more of the shimmering metal foil. This silver is infused with copper flecks that appear golden, creating a rich red and gold aesthetic inspired by traditional lacquerware.
In addition to its breathtaking handcrafted dial, this timepiece features an applied “floating logo,” polished indexes, and a polished metal handset. Super-LumiNova BGW9 lights up the hour markers and hands, ensuring readability while keeping the focus on the intricate surface design.
The La Joux-Perret G101 Movement
Powering the Frosted Leaf Royal Red is the La Joux-Perret G101 automatic caliber. This reliable movement is dateless and features an efficient tungsten rotor that winds the robust mainspring, providing an impressive 68-hour power reserve. With a quick 4Hz frequency (28,800 vibrations per hour), it ensures precision. The decorative touches include striping on the top plate and an elegantly laser-engraved movement holder showcasing the model name. Plus, each watch is individually numbered, adding a personal touch.
How to Order Your Frosted Leaf Royal Red
The Awake Frosted Leaf Royal Red is a striking yet sophisticated timepiece, flaunting its vibrant dial and matching strap. With its unique gold tones and textured foil, it stands out from previous iterations. At a price of €2,200 (excluding taxes), this limited edition of just 100 pieces is now available for pre-order through the Awake website. The first 50 pieces are ready for immediate shipping, while the remaining will be delivered in April. If you’re feeling the winter blues as the holiday season fades, this stunning watch could be the perfect pick-me-up or a thoughtful Valentine’s gift!
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Watch Specifications
Model
Sơn Mài Frosted Leaf Royal Red
Dial
Red frosted technique, combining polished lacquer and pure silver leaf gilding with natural pigments, applied and polished indexes with solid Super-LumiNova BGW9 underlay
Case Material
Recycled 316L stainless steel
Case Dimensions
39mm (diameter) × 45.6mm (lug-to-lug) × 11.8mm (thickness with crystal, 10.9mm without)
Crystal
Sapphire with anti-reflective coating
Case Back
Stainless steel with sapphire crystal, ring laser-decorated, screw-in
Movement
La Joux-Perret G101: automatic with manual winding and hacking, 28,800vph frequency, 68-hour power reserve, tungsten rotor
Water Resistance
5 atm (50 meters)
Strap
Red suede (20mm width) with rubberized calfskin lining, tone-on-tone stitching, and stainless steel pin buckle
Functions
Time only (hours, minutes, seconds)
Price
€2,200 (ex. taxes)
Special Note(s)
Limited to 100 pieces



