BY JOVAN KRSTEVSKI
Chanel debuted the J12 Automaton Caliber 6 at Watches & Wonders 2024. This groundbreaking release marks a significant leap for the brand, not only for its technical complexity but also for its playful tribute to the house’s founder, Gabrielle “Coco” Chanel.
The J12 Automaton showcases a 38mm x 13.65mm black ceramic case in a unique matte finish, a first for Chanel’s J12 line. This modern touch is balanced by a classically elegant, polished and chamfered caseband. A black diamond-encrusted bezel (48 baguette cuts) frames the dial, upping the luxury factor.
Eschewing the traditional watch face, the Chanel J12 Automaton boasts a miniature stage. Here, amidst the iconic quilted pattern and tiny camellias, a mesmerizing scene unfolds: Coco Chanel herself, working on a garment in her atelier. A button press brings the magic to life, with a surprisingly lifelike animation of Coco and a mannequin in motion.
Chanel’s Caliber 6, the first in-house automaton movement, powers the watch. With 355 components (nearly double Chanel’s usual), it offers impressive 4Hz performance and a 72-hour power reserve, all within the compact 38mm case.
A matching black ceramic bracelet with chamfered links completes the J12 Automaton. This limited edition (only 100 pieces) boasts an undisclosed price.
