Atelier Wen Perception Salmon XIA Watch

The Atelier Wen Perception Salmon XIA 40mm represents pinnacle of Chinese horological artistry through authentic écailles de poisson guilloché dial hand-turned by Master Cheng Yu Cai, China’s first guilloché craftsman, requiring 8 hours per dial on his own rose engine design. The complex 4-part dial construction follows ancient Chinese 榫卯 (sǔn mǎo) joinery principles using friction-based assembly without nails or glue, whilst the case architecture draws inspiration from pagoda curves and traditional roof structures.

At 40mm with 9.4mm thickness through diagonal measurement creating 37mm effective diameter, this provides elegant proportions whilst housing the custom SL1588A hi-beat movement with 41-hour power reserve. The 904L steel construction offers superior lustre through horizontal and vertical brushing contrasts with mirror-polished chamfers, whilst the semi-display caseback features embossed stone guardian lion (石狮子) with rotor creating animated mouth effect.

The custom SL1588A movement from Dandong/Peacock delivers enhanced 41-hour power reserve through extensive modification including date removal and slimmer profile. Regulated in 5 positions and tested by China’s Horological Research Institute, this features circular Côtes de Genève decoration with flame-blued screws and polished jewel sinks demonstrating exceptional finishing standards.

The 904L bracelet with asymmetrical hexagonal links references traditional Chinese architecture whilst the 32-part custom clasp provides on-the-fly micro-adjustment and telescopic blade system for optimal comfort. The 回纹 (huí wén) chapter ring pattern in Super-LumiNova X1 creates functional minute track.

This Perception Salmon XIA suits collectors seeking authentic Chinese horological artistry with hand-crafted guilloché and meaningful cultural references. The Master Cheng Yu Cai collaboration and ancient joinery principles create unique character whilst the custom movement and exceptional finishing demonstrate Atelier Wen’s commitment to preserving traditional crafts.