Ball Engineer III Invigorating Serpent

Ball Watch Company continues its legacy of crafting exceptional timepieces with the introduction of the Engineer III Invigorating Serpent. This watch stands as the second installment in Ball's Chinese Zodiac commemorative series, a collection that masterfully blends traditional symbolism with modern watchmaking techniques. Celebrating the Year of the Snake, this timepiece pays homage to ancient myths and folklore from both Eastern and Western cultures, making it a unique addition to any watch collection. The Invigorating Serpent is a testament to Ball's commitment to precision, durability, and distinctive design, embodying a fusion of historical reverence and contemporary engineering.



The Engineer III Invigorating Serpent draws its inspiration from the rich tapestry of ancient myths. In Chinese prehistoric folklore, the snake is revered as a symbol of beauty and holds a place as one of the earliest totems of the Chinese people. The legendary figures Fuxi and Nuwa, considered divine ancestors of humanity, were depicted as half-human, half-snake, highlighting the snake's significance in the origins of Chinese civilization. Similarly, in Greek mythology, the snake is a symbol of healing and rebirth, a concept derived from its natural ability to shed its skin. This dual symbolism of the snake as a figure of both creation and rejuvenation is thoughtfully encapsulated in the design of the Invigorating Serpent, bridging two distinct cultural narratives in a single timepiece.



The choice of malachite for the dial of the Engineer III Invigorating Serpent is a bold and innovative move by Ball's design team. Malachite, a natural material with a name derived from the Greek word "Moloche," meaning mallow plant, is known for its deep green hue reminiscent of the plant's leaves. This gemstone has been used by humans for over six thousand years and was considered a symbol of luck in various ancient civilizations. It was believed to possess mystical powers, offering protection to children and travelers, while its green color symbolized rebirth and hope. The use of malachite not only adds a touch of historical significance but also ensures that each dial is a unique piece of art, as the texture and color of the stone are naturally formed. The uniqueness of each dial underscores the watch's exclusivity and appeal to collectors who appreciate one-of-a-kind pieces.



The process of crafting the malachite dial is a meticulous and delicate one. Ball carefully selects raw gemstones with uniform veins and saturated colors, transforming them into watch dials with extreme precision. Given malachite's soft and fragile texture, every step of the production process requires immense care and attention to detail. This dedication to craftsmanship is evident in the final product, where the natural beauty of the malachite is showcased in a stunning display. The dial's deep green hue, combined with the unique patterns of each stone, creates a captivating visual experience. The inherent variations in the malachite ensure that no two watches are exactly alike, making each piece a singular masterpiece, the green color is incredibly unique and stands out in the sunlight.



The design of the Engineer III Invigorating Serpent is minimalist yet impactful, allowing the natural beauty of the malachite to take center stage. In addition to the malachite dial, the watch features self-powered micro gas tubes embedded in the hour markers and hands, a hallmark of Ball's commitment to visibility and functionality. At the 6 o'clock position, the Chinese character for "snake" is painted in Super LumiNova coating in a calligraphy font, further emphasizing the watch's thematic inspiration. This combination of traditional symbolism and modern luminous technology results in a timepiece that is both visually striking and practical for everyday use. The character adds a unique touch to the watch.



Functionality is a key aspect of the Engineer III Invigorating Serpent, living up to Ball's reputation for creating reliable and robust timepieces. The watch is housed in a 40mm case made from 904L stainless steel, a material chosen for its superior resistance to corrosion, rust, and acids. This type of stainless steel is a step above the standard used in many other watches, offering a unique, glossy luster that endures over time. The case size is versatile, suitable for both formal and casual occasions, making the watch a practical choice for a variety of settings. The polished finish of the case complements the vibrant malachite dial, creating a cohesive and refined aesthetic. The watch feels amazing on the wrist.



Powering the Engineer III Invigorating Serpent is a Swiss automatic mechanical movement, specifically the automatic caliber BALL RR1103. This movement ensures precise timekeeping and features a practical 3-hand function along with a magnified date display. The inclusion of a magnified date window enhances the watch's usability, making it easier to read the date at a glance. The movement's reliability and accuracy are further safeguarded by the watch's impressive 100-meter water resistance and enhanced anti-magnetic properties, capable of withstanding up to 80,000 A/m (1,000 Gauss). These features protect the watch's precision against the rigors of daily wear and exposure to magnetic fields.



The case back of the Engineer III Invigorating Serpent features the Caduceus symbol, drawn from Greek mythology. Initially a representation of prosperity and peace, the Caduceus has become a widely recognized symbol in modern times, often associated with medical organizations. The inclusion of this symbol on the case back is a nod to the watch's themes of healing and rebirth, as well as a representation of Ball's wishes for peace, happiness, and good health for its wearers. This thoughtful detail adds another layer of meaning to the watch, connecting it to broader themes of well-being and prosperity. The symbol is beautifully etched and looks amazing on the wrist.



Ball Watch Company has a storied history dating back to 1891, making it a pioneer in the field of timekeeping. The company was founded under extraordinary circumstances, following a tragic train collision in Kipton, Ohio. This event led to the appointment of Webster Clay Ball as "Chief Time Inspector" to oversee the synchronization of timing protocols for American railroad companies. This initiative standardized "railroad time," improving efficiency and safety, and even inspired the future Swiss Society of Chronometry (COSC), which sets the highest standards for watch timing certification today. Ball's legacy is one of innovation and precision, values that continue to drive the company's creations.



In its ongoing quest for innovation, Ball Watch Company established Patrick's Labs, a Research and Development Center dedicated to pushing the boundaries of watchmaking technology. This spin-off company focuses on gathering a wide range of expertise to develop groundbreaking products and solutions. Patrick's Labs enables Ball to remain at the forefront of research and innovation, ensuring that each new timepiece incorporates the latest advancements in materials and engineering. The Engineer III Invigorating Serpent is a product of this commitment to innovation, featuring cutting-edge technology alongside traditional craftsmanship.



The technical specifications of the Engineer III Invigorating Serpent are impressive. The watch boasts 14 micro gas tubes on the hour, minute, and second hands, as well as on the dial, providing exceptional night reading capability. These micro gas tubes are a signature feature of Ball watches, offering superior luminosity without the need for external light sources. Additionally, the minute track and the Chinese character for "Snake" are coated with Super LumiNova luminous paint, ensuring visibility in low-light conditions. The watch is shock-resistant up to 5,000Gs and anti-magnetic up to 1,000 Gauss (80,000 A/m), making it a durable and reliable timepiece for everyday wear.



The case of the Engineer III Invigorating Serpent is constructed from 904L stainless steel, measuring 40mm in diameter and 13.15mm in height. This robust case houses the Amortiser® patented anti-shock system and a mu-metal shield, further enhancing the watch's durability. The anti-reflective sapphire crystal protects the dial, providing a clear and scratch-resistant view of the stunning malachite. The screwed-in crown contributes to the watch's water resistance, rated at 100 meters (330 feet), making it suitable for swimming and other water-related activities. The 904L stainless steel bracelet with a folding buckle complements the case, offering both style and comfort.



The dial of the Engineer III Invigorating Serpent is its most distinctive feature. The vibrant green malachite, with its naturally formed patterns and textures, creates a visually captivating display. Each dial is unique, showcasing the inherent beauty of the gemstone. The minimalist design, with its simple hour markers and hands, allows the malachite to take center stage. The Chinese character for "snake" at the 6 o'clock position, rendered in Super LumiNova, adds a thematic touch without detracting from the overall aesthetic. The result is a dial that is both elegant and intriguing, a true testament to Ball's design philosophy.



The Engineer III Invigorating Serpent is priced at US$ 2,099, reflecting its exceptional craftsmanship, unique materials, and innovative design. This price point positions the watch as an accessible luxury item, appealing to both seasoned collectors and those new to the world of high-end timepieces. Availability may vary, so interested buyers should check with authorized Ball retailers or the official Ball Watch Company website for the most up-to-date information on purchasing this extraordinary watch.



Case: 904L stainless steel, Ø 40mm, height 13.15mm, Amortiser® patented anti-shock system, Mu-metal shield, Anti-reflective sapphire crystal, Screwed-in crown, Water resistant to 100m/330ft.

Movement: Automatic caliber BALL RR1103, Shock resistant to 5,000Gs, Anti-magnetic to 1,000 Gauss / 80,000 A/m, Hours, minutes, sweep seconds and magnified date.

Dial: Green Malachite, 14 micro gas tubes on hour, minute and second hands and dial for night reading capability, Super LumiNova luminous paint on minute track and Chinese character for "Snake".

Strap: 904L stainless steel bracelet with folding buckle.

Price: US$ 2,099

Reference Number: NM9026C-S47-MAL

Notes: Second model in the Chinese Zodiac commemorative series, for the Year of the Snake. The dial is made from natural malachite stone, each dial is a unique piece of art.