In the realm of innovative horology,
CIGA Design has consistently pushed the boundaries of traditional watchmaking, captivating enthusiasts and collectors alike with their unique approach to design and mechanics. The brand's commitment to blending artistic expression with cutting-edge technology is vividly exemplified in their latest creation, the Series U Blue Planet II. This timepiece is a visual spectacle and a testament to CIGA Design's dedication to environmental consciousness, technical ingenuity, and historical reverence. The Series U Blue Planet II, a successor to the acclaimed Blue Planet that garnered international recognition, continues to build on this legacy with enhanced features and a profound message.
Courtesy of CIGA Design
CIGA Design, founded in 2013, quickly established itself as a brand that dared to be different. The founder, a renowned industrial designer, envisioned a watch brand that would not only tell time but also tell a story. This vision led to the development of watches that are both functional and aesthetically captivating. The Blue Planet collection is a prime example of this philosophy. The original Blue Planet was inspired by the concept of Earth as the foundation of time perception, and it won the Challenge Watch Prize at the 2021 Grand Prix d’Horlogerie de Genève (GPHG), often referred to as the "Oscars of Watchmaking." This prestigious award marked a significant milestone for CIGA Design, placing it alongside industry giants like
Patek Philippe and Piaget.
The Blue Planet II carries forward this spirit of innovation and environmental stewardship. The watch is a tribute to our planet, inspired by the urgent need to protect our environment. This message is not just a marketing gimmick but a deeply ingrained aspect of the watch's design and construction. The Blue Planet II is more than just a timepiece; it is a statement of the brand's commitment to raising awareness about environmental issues and promoting a sustainable future. This timepiece represents the beauty of our natural world and serves as a reminder of humanity’s connection to Earth. It was inspired by the ancient Silk Road’s cultural heritage. The watch’s most striking feature is its intricately designed CNC-carved globe dial, which represents the Earth in stunning detail. The craftsmanship involved in creating this miniature globe is remarkable, capturing the essence of our planet and bringing it to the wrist of the wearer.
Courtesy of CIGA Design
Visually, the Blue Planet II is a marvel. The central focus of the dial is a three-dimensional representation of Earth, which appears to float within the watch case. The globe is meticulously detailed, showcasing continents, oceans, and even subtle topographical variations. The blue hues of the oceans contrast beautifully with the silvery landmasses, creating a dynamic and lifelike depiction of our planet. The globe is encased under a dramatically curved synthetic sapphire crystal, which enhances the three-dimensional effect and gives the watch a distinctive profile. This crystal curvature has been increased by 25% compared to the previous model, making the Earth appear even more prominent and immersive. The curvature of the earth has been increased by 36%.
The case of the Blue Planet II is crafted from recycled titanium, a material choice that underscores CIGA Design's commitment to sustainability. Titanium is known for its strength, lightness, and corrosion resistance, making it an excellent choice for a watch case. The high-gloss polishing of the titanium case adds a touch of sophistication, while the deep-groove textured crown enhances the watch's tactile appeal. The 46.0mm case diameter (excluding the crown) ensures that the watch makes a bold statement on the wrist, yet it remains comfortable to wear thanks to the lightweight properties of titanium. There is also a stainless steel case option that is slightly cheaper, but not as durable as the titanium model.
Courtesy of CIGA Design
One of the most innovative aspects of the Blue Planet II is its unique time display mechanism. CIGA Design has re-imagined the traditional hands-free design, drawing inspiration from ancient sundials and the interplay between day and night. The watch features an asynchronous-follow movement technology, a proprietary development that replaces traditional gears to simulate Earth's self-rotation. In this system, a single point displays both the hours and minutes, providing a unique experience of time's passage. The hour dial remains stationary, while the dynamic minute dial rotates around it. This configuration means that the hour hand moves through a 30-degree arc while the minute hand completes a full 390-degree rotation. This innovative mechanism is not only a technical achievement but also a visual delight, as it mimics the natural movement of celestial bodies. The luminescent elements on the watch, particularly the hour and minute markers, have been enlarged by 105% compared to the previous model, enhancing nighttime visibility and adding to the watch's overall aesthetic appeal. These markers glow softly in the dark, ensuring that the time can be easily read even in low-light conditions.
The automatic mechanical movement developed by CIGA Design powers the Blue Planet II. This movement boasts a power reserve of about 40 hours, a movement frequency of 21,600 vibrations per hour, and an accuracy margin of -15 to +30 seconds per 24 hours. The movement is housed within a case that is water-resistant up to 3 ATM, making it suitable for everyday wear but not for diving or other water-intensive activities. The commemorative GPHG case back adds a special touch to the watch, celebrating CIGA Design's achievement at the prestigious watchmaking awards.
Courtesy of CIGA Design
The Blue Planet II is paired with a blue fluororubber strap, which complements the blue hues of the dial and enhances the overall thematic coherence of the watch. The strap is 22mm wide and features a butterfly double-push clasp for added security and ease of use. Fluororubber is known for its durability and comfort, making it an ideal choice for a watch that is meant to be worn daily. The watch's total length, including the strap, is 220mm.
In addition to its technical and aesthetic merits, the Blue Planet II comes in a specially designed gift box that further enhances the ownership experience. The Blue Planet Gift Box invites the wearer to immerse themselves in a decade-long journey of the Blue Planet, experiencing the vitality of time through textured topography and understanding the message of "Only One Earth" in 100 languages. This thoughtful packaging underscores CIGA Design's commitment to creating a holistic and meaningful experience for its customers.
Courtesy of CIGA Design
The pricing and availability of the Blue Planet II reflect its premium status and the craftsmanship involved in its creation. The titanium version, priced at $1,399.00 USD, and the stainless steel version, priced at $1,199.00 USD, are available through CIGA Design's official channels and authorized retailers. This pricing ensures that the watch remains exclusive and desirable, appealing to those who appreciate high-quality timepieces and the values they represent. With its exceptional design, innovative movement, and commitment to sustainability, the Blue Planet II is a watch that truly stands out. It is a testament to CIGA Design's vision and its ability to create timepieces that are both beautiful and meaningful. Whether you are a collector, an enthusiast, or simply someone who appreciates fine craftsmanship, the Blue Planet II is a watch that deserves your attention. It is a timepiece that not only tells time but also tells a story—a story of innovation, artistry, and a deep respect for our planet.
Case: 46.0mm diameter (excluding crown), 17.05mm thickness, 6.0mm diameter CNC grooved crown. Recycled titanium with high-gloss polishing or stainless steel. Synthetic sapphire crystal, curvature increased by 25%. 3ATM water resistance. Commemorative GPHG caseback. 220 mm watch length.
Movement: Automatic mechanical movement developed by CIGA Design. Asynchronous-follow movement technology. Stationary hour dial, dynamic minute dial. Hour hand moves 30°, minute hand rotates 390°. 40-hour power reserve. 21,600 vph frequency. -15/+30 seconds per 24 hours accuracy.
Dial: 3D CNC-carved globe design. Represents Earth with continents and oceans. Indices enlarged by 105%. Luminescent elements for enhanced nighttime visibility. Inspired by ancient sundials.
Strap: 22mm width. Blue fluororubber material. Butterfly double-push clasp.
Price: $1,399.00 USD (Titanium), $1,199.00 USD (Stainless Steel)
Reference Number: 46119598751966 (Titanium), 46119598817502 (Stainless Steel)
Notes: Won the Challenge Watch Prize at the 2021 GPHG. Inspired by the need to protect the Earth. Features unique time display simulating Earth's rotation.