BAUSELE x The Dial Artist Golden Reef

A Miniature Masterpiece

Words by: Hourstriker Staff
November 26, 2024
BAUSELE, the Australian watchmaker renowned for its distinctive timepieces infused with the spirit of the land down under, has joined forces with Chris Alexander, the acclaimed Dial Artist, to create a remarkable watch that encapsulates the essence of Australia's coastal beauty. The Bausele x The Dial Artist Golden Reef watch is a testament to the harmonious fusion of horological craftsmanship and artistic expression, resulting in a timepiece that is as unique as the natural wonders that inspired it.



BAUSELE, founded by Christophe Hoppe, a visionary watchmaker with a deep passion for Australia, has carved a niche for itself by creating watches that embody the country's rugged landscapes and vibrant culture. Each BAUSELE watch is not merely a timekeeping instrument but a wearable piece of Australia, carrying within it the very essence of the land. The brand's signature element, the "Jewel in the Crown," features authentic Australian sand embedded in the crown, creating a tangible connection to the country's iconic shores. This commitment to incorporating elements of Australia's natural beauty into its watches has resonated with watch enthusiasts worldwide, establishing BAUSELE as a purveyor of timepieces that tell a story.

Courtesy of Bausele


Chris Alexander, better known as The Dial Artist, is a British artist whose transformative touch has breathed new life into the world of watch dials. With a Master's in Design and over two decades of experience, Alexander has honed his skills, creating mesmerizing works of art that adorn the wrists of discerning collectors. His unique approach involves using natural oxidation and 24-carat gold leaf to create captivating patterns and textures, each dial a testament to his artistic ingenuity. Alexander's ability to merge contemporary art with the precision of watchmaking has earned him a well-deserved reputation as a master of his craft.



The BAUSELE x The Dial Artist Golden Reef watch is a harmonious blend of these two creative forces, a timepiece that captures the essence of Australia's coastal splendor. Inspired by aerial views of the Great Barrier Reef, one of the world's most breathtaking natural wonders, the watch's dial is a microcosm of the reef's vibrant ecosystem. Through a meticulous process of natural oxidation and gold leaf application, Alexander has created a dial that evokes the reef's intricate coral formations and the shimmering interplay of sunlight on the water's surface. Each dial is unique, a miniature masterpiece that tells its own story of the ocean's depths and sun-kissed shores.

Courtesy of Bausele


The watch's design is a symphony of aesthetics and functionality. The 39.5mm case, crafted from surgical-grade stainless steel with a sleek black IP coating, strikes a perfect balance between presence and wearability. The sandblasted finish adds a subtle texture that complements the dial's artistry, while the domed sapphire crystal provides a clear view of the intricate details beneath. The watch's 200m water resistance ensures that it can withstand the rigors of underwater exploration, making it a suitable companion for both avid divers and those who appreciate the allure of the sea.



At the heart of the Golden Reef watch beats a Sellita SW200 automatic movement, a reliable and robust caliber known for its accuracy and durability. This workhorse movement provides a 38-hour power reserve, ensuring that the watch keeps ticking even after being set aside for a day or two. The SW200's hacking feature allows for precise time setting, a necessity for those who value punctuality.

Courtesy of Bausele


Encasing this mechanical marvel is a 39.5mm case crafted from 316L surgical-grade stainless steel. This material is chosen for its exceptional strength, corrosion resistance, and biocompatibility, making it an ideal choice for a watch that's designed to be worn every day. The case's sandblasted finish adds a subtle texture that's pleasing to the touch and complements the dial's artistry. The black IP coating provides an added layer of protection and enhances the watch's sleek aesthetic.



The Golden Reef watch's crown is not just a functional component; it's a symbolic representation of BAUSELE's connection to Australia. Embedded within the crown is authentic sand from Australia's Golden Coast, a tangible reminder of the country's stunning beaches. This unique feature, known as the "Jewel in the Crown," is a hallmark of BAUSELE watches, adding a touch of authenticity and sentimental value.



Protecting the dial is a domed sapphire crystal with five layers of anti-reflective coating. Sapphire crystal is renowned for its exceptional scratch resistance, ensuring that the watch's dial remains pristine even after years of wear. The anti-reflective coating minimizes glare, allowing for optimal readability in various lighting conditions.

Courtesy of Bausele


The dial itself is the undisputed star of the show. Crafted through a meticulous process of natural oxidation and 24-carat gold leaf application, each dial is a unique work of art. The oxidized metals create a mesmerizing tapestry of turquoise and gold, reminiscent of the Great Barrier Reef's vibrant coral gardens. The gold leaf accents shimmer like sunlight dancing on the ocean's surface, adding a touch of opulence to the dial's organic beauty.



The Golden Reef watch's hands and numerals are coated with Luminova, a phosphorescent material that glows in the dark, ensuring legibility even in low-light conditions. The bezel, also adorned with Luminova, adds a functional element to the watch's design, allowing for the tracking of elapsed time.



Completing the watch's ensemble is a sky-blue leather strap handmade in Sydney by artisan strap maker Jayson. The strap's vibrant hue perfectly complements the dial's turquoise and gold tones, creating a harmonious aesthetic. The strap's handcrafted nature ensures both comfort and durability, making it a fitting companion for this exceptional timepiece.

Courtesy of Bausele


The BAUSELE x The Dial Artist Golden Reef watch is not just a watch; it's an experience. It's a journey into the heart of Australia's coastal beauty, a celebration of artistry and craftsmanship, and a testament to the power of collaboration. With its unique dial, robust movement, and thoughtful design elements, the Golden Reef watch is a timepiece that will undoubtedly capture the hearts of watch enthusiasts and collectors alike.



This limited-edition timepiece is available for $1,450, exclusively through BAUSELE's Blue Friday event, which runs from November 29th to December 8th, 2024. Once this window closes, the Golden Reef collection will never be produced again, making it a truly rare and collectible piece.
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