In a remarkable tribute to the pioneering spirit of Chinese horology, Benjamin Hui has unveiled Project Tai Yu through his Independent Atelier. This initiative honors Kiu Tai Yu, a trailblazer in the realm of independent watchmaking in China. Kiu Tai Yu made history in 1992 as the first individual from China to join the prestigious Académie Horlogère Des Créateurs Indépendants, commonly referred to as the AHCI. His notable contribution to the industry includes the original Millennium watch released in 2000, of which only 20 pieces were ever produced. Finding one of these rare timepieces is a daunting task; however, Hui's dedication paid off after over a decade of searching, resulting in him acquiring not one but two of these exceptional watches.
Now, through the efforts of his Independent Atelier, Hui is recreating this iconic watch in a limited edition run of just 25 pieces, ensuring that the legacy of the late Kiu Tai Yu remains vibrant for future generations. This endeavor is not just a nod to the past, but a means to keep the spirit of innovation alive in the world of independent watchmaking. The Independent Atelier itself comprises a collective of members from the Grand Prix d’Horlogerie de Genève (GPHG) academy and skilled independent watchmakers. For this particular project, Hui has collaborated with Zhang YuXin, a talented watchmaker and GPHG member from China, further enriching the project's authenticity and expertise.
The case design for Project Tai Yu, while modest in size, is rich in intricate details. Crafted from 18k yellow gold, it has a diameter of 35mm, measures 46mm from lug to lug, and stands 11.2mm tall. Its elegantly sculpted lugs feature a spiraling pattern filled with striking red lacquer. On the left side of the case, you will find a section filled with red cold enamel that bears Tai Yu's name, although it may not be easily visible in photographs. On the opposite side, a knurled crown adorned with red-filled engravings is flanked by two guards that rise from the caseband, adding to its distinctive look.
The dial of Project Tai Yu is divided into two distinct sections. The upper part showcases a black porcelain enamel finish with the balance wheel prominently displayed, while the lower section is dedicated to the hours and minutes subdial. The balance wheel is supported by a double-sided bridge finished in gold and secured with heat-blued screws, all set against a backdrop of red lacquer featuring white inscriptions indicating the year and the limited nature of the piece. The lower half of the dial features sword-shaped hour and minute hands that glide along a mix of Arabic, Roman, and Chinese numerals and symbols, highlighted by a vibrant red center. To the left, you will find an engraving in black that conveys the Chinese characters for "Good Fortune & Harmony," and to the right, the word "Millennium"—a tribute to the original timepiece created by Kiu Tai Yu.
While specific details about the movement are somewhat limited, it is important to note that it is a recreation of Kiu Tai Yu’s original mechanism, likely based on the architecture of the ETA 2824, albeit with some contemporary enhancements. Now designated as the IATY-01, this automatic movement boasts an improved escapement, balance shaft, Incabloc shock protection, regulator, and hairspring compared to its predecessor. During the reverse engineering phase, the team discovered that Kiu Tai Yu had handcrafted many of the components for his original movement, a feat that is increasingly rare in today’s manufacturing processes. Ultimately, this movement operates at a frequency of 28,800 vibrations per hour and offers a power reserve of 38 hours.
Project Tai Yu will include two straps, one in black and the other in red, both fitted with a yellow gold pin buckle featuring red-filled engravings. One strap is particularly noteworthy, as it showcases a half "bow-tie" design in red at each lug end and proudly displays Tai Yu’s name in yellow gold over red cold enamel. With only 25 pieces available, each priced at CHF 30,500 before VAT, this project promises exclusivity and craftsmanship of the highest order.
For those interested in learning more about this remarkable watch, additional information can be found on the Independent Atelier’s Instagram page or by contacting them directly.
Technical Specifications – Independent Atelier Project Tai Yu
- Case: 35mm diameter, 11.2mm height, 46mm lug-to-lug; crafted from brushed and polished 18k yellow gold; engraved lugs filled with red enamel; sapphire crystals on both front and back; yellow gold crown with red-filled engraving; water-resistant up to 30 meters.
- Dial: Black porcelain enamel dial; exposed balance wheel secured by dual-sided bridges with flame-blued screws and red backing; elevated lower section containing subdial for hours and minutes; features Roman, Arabic, and Chinese numerals; sword-shaped hands; cold enamel inscriptions on the left ("Good Fortune" in Chinese) and right ("Millennium" in Chinese, referencing Kiu Tai Yu's original watch).
- Movement: IATY-01, automatic; a homage to Kiu Tai Yu's original movement; likely based on ETA 2824 architecture; 28,800 vibrations per hour; 25 jewels; 38-hour power reserve; dial-side mounted balance wheel; offset hours and minutes display.
- Strap: Available in black and red JeaYou alligator leather; features a yellow gold pin buckle with engravings and cold enamel filling.
- Availability: Limited to 25 pieces.
- Price: CHF 30,500.
This exciting project not only celebrates a significant milestone in the history of watchmaking but also sparks a conversation about the evolving landscape of independent watchmaking in China. What do you think about the resurgence of interest in traditional craftsmanship? Do you believe such projects can inspire a new generation of artisans? Share your thoughts!
