BY DHANANJAY PATHAK
Chanel is a brand that is known primarily for its fashion accessories. However, in the recent past, the brand has proved that they are not just a fashion brand but can produce some high-end timepieces. For 2022, Chanel has pushed the envelope and has released the new J12 Diamond Tourbillon, a watch fully dressed in black, studded with diamonds, and powered a Tourbillon, seamlessly blending the world of high horology and fine jewelry.
Right off the bat, the deep black dial on the J13 Diamond warrants attention. The dial comprises two overlapping circular displays. The upper and larger display features a chapter ring with a printed railroad-style hour/minute track that can be read, using the diamond-studded block-style hands. To further heighten visual interest, this section has also been thoughtfully open-worked to reveal the inner workings of the mechanical powerhouse behind this watch. The lower display houses the flying Tourbillon that features a beautiful solitaire Diamond at the center surrounded by multiple diamonds fitted on the cage outside. In all, the dial on the J12 is a work of art that offers a lot to enjoy without compromising on legibility.
The case on the J12 Diamond Tourbillon watches measures a very wearable 38mm in diameter and has been crafted using Ceramic, white gold, and diamonds. The main body of the case is made of black ceramic or matte black ceramic, the crown at 3 is made of 18kt white gold, and finally, the bezel on top of the case is either set with 34 baguette-cut diamonds or is presented with Matt black rectangular cutouts. The case is water-resistant to 50 meters which is acceptable for a watch like this.
Powering the watch is Chanel’s in-house Calibre 5. A manually wound movement, the Calibre 5 comprises 29 jewels, a flying Tourbillon, and offers a power reserve of around 55 hours when fully wound. To complement the face of the watch, the movement has been completely blacked out, and the architecture of the movement can be enjoyed through the sapphire case back.
The new Chanel J12 Diamond Tourbillon watches comes attached to a black ceramic and on a matte black ceramic bracelet. The two watches is limited to just 55 pieces, and the price is only available on request. Visit Chanel here.
