As we usher in the Year of the Snake—Gong Hei Fat Choy!—it’s the perfect time to explore an exciting array of watches crafted specifically for this festive occasion.
In recent weeks, numerous watch brands have unveiled captivating timepieces that celebrate the spirit of the Lunar New Year, showcasing their remarkable artistry and innovation.
While some designs target specific audiences, many incorporate themes that highlight the significance of this Zodiac cycle, allowing brands to express their creative vision annually.
Celebrating the Year of the Snake
This curated selection showcases a range of interpretations from different manufacturers as they honor the Year of the Snake.
Though it’s far from comprehensive, it aims to capture the various stylistic approaches employed within the watchmaking community for this celebratory event.
Let’s delve into this fascinating collection inspired by the serpent.
Featured Timepieces
Parmigiani Fleurier Tonda PF Xiali Chinese Calendar
Parmigiani Fleurier offers a standout interpretation of Chinese Calendar complications with the Tonda PF.
This watch features a robust case that beautifully complements its intricate dial, enhanced by a legible Chinese typeface that adds character.
While last year’s steel version attracted attention, the latest model shines with its warm rose gold casing and a vibrant red dial.
The 42mm diameter and 12.2mm thickness house the PF008 caliber, measuring 32.6mm, hinting at the possibility of a more compact version as the design team refines its complex aesthetic.
Marked at $104,300 on a bracelet, more information is available on Parmigiani’s official website.
Christopher Ward x seconde/seconde/ The Twelve Snake
In a playful and unexpected nod to the Year of the Snake, Christopher Ward joins forces with seconde/seconde/ to create a whimsical piece that harkens back to a beloved classic game.
With a diameter of 40mm and a thickness of 9.95mm, this watch boasts a Sellita SW200-1 movement.
Pre-orders are currently underway, with delivery anticipated this summer.
Price is set at $1,225 on a bracelet, with additional information available on Christopher Ward’s website.
Blancpain Villeret Calendrier Chinois Traditionnel 2025
Having mastered the art of Chinese Calendar complications for 14 years, Blancpain presents a delightful new model featuring a whimsical Zodiac animal representation.
This timepiece skillfully integrates elements of the Chinese Lunar calendar with Western timekeeping practices, showcasing both a moon phase indicator and Gregorian date display.
Housed in an impressive platinum case measuring 42.5mm by 15.1mm, it features a striking green Grand Feu enamel dial, while the back reveals a frosted white gold rotor etched with a wooden snake design.
This elegant watch retails for $87,800 on an alligator strap; find more details on Blancpain’s site.
Swatch Golden Red Bamboo
Swatch continues its tradition of joyful festive releases with its Golden Red Bamboo model, which offers an accessible yet delightful way to partake in Lunar New Year celebrations.
The watch features a radiant sunburst gold dial embellished with an abstract snake and bamboo design.
Part of the “Skin” collection, it is notably compact, measuring just 38mm in diameter and an ultra-slim 5.8mm in case thickness, making it the smallest timepiece in this selection.
This cheerful model is priced at $195 on a textile strap; for more details, visit Swatch’s website.
Baume & Mercier Riviera Chinese New Year ‘Snake Edition’
In a unique twist, Baume & Mercier revisits its integrated sports watch design with the Year of the Snake edition.
The striking dodecagonal steel case, measuring 39mm, features a sandblasted titanium bezel ringed with PVD gold, creating a bold look.
Showcasing geometric patterns on a smoked grey sapphire dial that evokes an abstract serpent, gilt accents add a touch of elegance.
Priced at $4,950 on a strap, it occupies a premium segment while offering a distinctive festive aesthetic.
Longines Conquest Heritage ‘Year of the Snake’
Among this impressive lineup, the Longines Conquest Heritage presents a more traditional option.
This straightforward watch features a gradient red dial adorned with gilt accents, set in a classic 40mm case with a modest thickness of 10.7mm.
Notably, the caseback discreetly alludes to the Lunar New Year, making it appealing to a wide audience.
Limited to just 2025 pieces, this model sells for $3,150 on a strap, making it a standout choice for everyday wear.
Breguet Classique 7145 Year of the Snake Edition
Rounding out this collection is the Breguet Classique 7145, a testament to exceptional watchmaking.
Encased in a 40mm rose gold shell with a slender 6.5mm profile, this piece showcases a hand-engraved dial depicting a snake in its natural habitat, beautifully complemented by delicate miniature paintings in green tones.
The watch features twelve applied hour markers and Breguet’s signature open-tipped hands.
This remarkable timepiece is priced at $74,600 on a strap; for further insights, visit Breguet’s official website.
Conclusion
As we welcome the Year of the Snake, the watchmaking community showcases its creativity, intriguing designs, and cultural appreciation through these unique timepieces.
Each of these watches, crafted with care and attention to detail, honors the spirit of the Lunar New Year and offers something special for collectors and enthusiasts alike.
Source: Hodinkee