As the Year of the Snake approaches, renowned watchmakers have unveiled exquisite timepieces that capture the serpent’s elegance and symbolism. These limited-edition creations blend traditional craftsmanship with innovative design, making them standout tributes to the Chinese zodiac.
Breguet Classique 7145
Breguet’s tribute to the Year of the Snake showcases the brand’s mastery of guillochage, a decorative technique pioneered by founder Abraham-Louis Breguet in the 18th century. The 40mm rose gold case features a hand-engraved serpent entwined in foliage, with intricate guilloché patterns filling the spaces. A vibrant green lacquer enhances the foliage, adding a striking contrast to the gold.
Blancpain Villeret Calendrier Chinois Traditionnel 2025
Blancpain continues its zodiac series with a platinum-cased timepiece featuring a green Grand Feu enamel dial. The 45.2mm watch includes a Chinese calendar complication, with an aperture at 12 o’clock displaying the zodiac animal. The sapphire caseback reveals a rotor engraved with a snake motif, blending horological complexity with thematic artistry.
IWC Portofino Automatic Moon Phase 37 “Year of the Snake”
IWC opts for subtle sophistication with a burgundy dial, complementing the golden moon phase display. The 37mm steel case houses the self-winding Calibre 32800, featuring a gold-plated rotor shaped like a serpent. The restrained yet auspicious design makes it a versatile Lunar New Year offering.
Franck Muller Silhouette CX Snake
Franck Muller’s limited-edition Silhouette CX Snake dazzles with a snow-set emerald serpent on the dial. The rose gold case features asymmetrical edges, evolving the brand’s signature Cintrée Curvex design. A green calf-leather strap embossed with snakeskin texture completes the striking aesthetic. Only 28 pieces have been made for the Asia-Pacific market.
Hublot Spirit of Big Bang “Year of the Snake”
Hublot’s bold interpretation features a gold-plated, laser-engraved serpent winding around the chronograph subdials. The 42mm black ceramic case is engraved with scale patterns, while the rubber strap mimics snakeskin with a velvety shimmer. The design is a testament to Hublot’s fusion of high-tech materials and artistic detail.
Jaeger-LeCoultre Reverso Tribute Enamel “Snake”
Jaeger-LeCoultre’s Reverso showcases a meticulously engraved snake and clouds on a Grand Feu enamel surface—a process requiring 80 hours of precision work. The glossy black enamel contrasts elegantly with gold hands and hour markers, while the caseback mirrors the dial’s artistry.
Longines Conquest Heritage “Year of the Snake”
Longines collaborates with Chinese artist Wu Jian’an for its serpent-themed timepiece. The caseback engraving, “Divine Snake Presents Treasure,” draws inspiration from The Legend of the White Snake. The 40mm steel watch features a bold red gradient dial, embodying festive Lunar New Year spirit.
Vacheron Constantin Métiers d’Art The Legend of the Chinese Zodiac
Vacheron Constantin’s tribute unites engraving, miniature painting, and enameling to depict a cobra resting on a rock. Available in pink gold or platinum, the 40mm timepiece uses Grand Feu enamel for the sky and flux-coated enamel for the foliage. Each layer is fired at high temperatures to achieve nuanced color gradients.
These exceptional timepieces not only honor the Year of the Snake but also celebrate the intersection of horological innovation and cultural heritage. Collectors and enthusiasts alike will find these watches to be enduring symbols of artistry and precision.
