AWAKE Introduces the Sơn Mài – Guilloché Main Collection

A fusion of two ancestral crafts in modern watchmaking

The new AWAKE AWAKE Sơn Mài Guilloché Main collection introduces a completely new approach to métiers d’art watchmaking by combining traditional hand-guilloché and Vietnamese Sơn Mài lacquer for the first time in a modern 38 mm luxury watch collection.

Limited to three editions of 200 pieces each, the collection reflects AWAKE’s continued focus on craftsmanship, independent creativity, and contemporary design rooted in traditional techniques. Inspired by celestial phenomena, the “Alba,” “Sunset,” and “Borealis” models explore light, texture, and depth through highly complex handmade dials.

Two Métiers d’Art United for the First Time

At the heart of the collection is the meeting between two centuries-old artistic traditions. The guilloché work is produced in Italy by the Renzetti family using original 19th-century hand-operated machines, while the lacquer work is crafted in Vietnam using the ancestral Sơn Mài technique.

Using rose engines and straight-line machines entirely controlled by hand, artisans engrave intricate patterns directly into the dial surface before multiple layers of lacquer are carefully applied and polished in Hanoi. The result is a dial with remarkable depth, shifting reflections, and a constantly evolving appearance depending on the light.

According to the brand, each dial requires approximately 15 hours of work, highlighting the intense level of craftsmanship behind the project.

Three Editions Inspired by Celestial Phenomena

The new collection is divided into three distinct references, each inspired by atmospheric and celestial colors.

The “Sunset” edition features a rare drapé-moiré guilloché pattern inspired by ocean waves and enhanced with pink, violet, and blue lacquer tones that recreate the atmosphere of a sunset sky.

The “Alba” version uses a dynamic helical guilloché motif combined with warm lacquer gradients that evoke the energy and intensity of an incandescent sunrise.

Meanwhile, the “Borealis” model draws inspiration from the Northern Lights through radiant engraved patterns and vibrant green reflections created by the lacquer layers, producing a dramatic play of light across the dial surface.

A New 38 mm Case Design

AWAKE Sơn Mài Guilloché Main also introduces a completely new case architecture. Crafted in stainless steel and measuring 38 mm in diameter, the new case combines elegant vintage-inspired proportions with contemporary finishing. The polished concave bezel, softly curved lugs, and domed sapphire crystal place strong emphasis on the handcrafted dial while maintaining a refined wrist presence.

The case measures 44.75 mm lug-to-lug with a thickness of 11.5 mm and offers 100 meters of water resistance thanks to its redesigned screw-down crown.

A Refined Identity and New Luminous Signature

The collection also debuts a redesigned handwritten AWAKE logo with fluid, organic lines intended to reflect the gesture of craftsmanship itself.

Complementing the dials is a new luminous signature combining engraved steel-capped hands and indices with Super-LumiNova® BGW9. During daylight the lume remains discreet, while in darkness it softly illuminates the lacquer and guilloché textures beneath the surface.

This subtle interaction between shadow and light reinforces the artistic character of the collection without distracting from the dial craftsmanship.

Powered by the La Joux-Perret G101

All three references are powered by the Swiss-made G101 automatic calibre from La Joux-Perret.

The movement offers a 68-hour power reserve and features a newly developed tungsten rotor with brushed, polished, and micro-blasted finishing visible through the sapphire caseback.

For the straps, AWAKE partnered with Jean Rousseau, equipping the watches with handcrafted Alcantara straps paired with the new Fitwell M1 micro-adjustable buckle for improved comfort.

Technical Specifications

On the wrist

Pricing and Availability

Each version of the AWAKE Sơn Mài – Guilloché Main collection is limited to 200 numbered pieces and priced at €2,650 excluding taxes.

Considering the level of handcrafted work involved in both the guilloché engraving and Vietnamese lacquer application, the collection positions itself as one of the most compelling value propositions currently available within métiers d’art watchmaking.

The collection officially launches on May 20, 2026, with first deliveries expected at the end of June 2026.

For more information, please visit the official AWAKE website.

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