Myths and legends, passed down through generations, have long shaped cultural identities worldwide. Drawing from this rich heritage, Polish watch brand Hvilina collaborated with journalist and publicist Irina Klimkovich, co-author of Belarusian Mythology, to create the Star Chronicle—a watch that weaves ancient folklore into its design.
Central to the watch’s aesthetic are the sun and moon, intricately rendered on the dial in a style reminiscent of Francysk Skaryna’s coat of arms. Skaryna, born in 1486, was a pioneering book printer in the Grand Duchy of Lithuania, instrumental in preserving historical narratives.
A Dial That Tells More Than Time
Translating mythology into watch design is no easy feat, yet Hvilina succeeded with a captivating dial that plays with depth. Instead of printing flat motifs, the brand recessed the sun and moon into sub-dials for the month and day indicators. The blue sunburst center serves as a celestial backdrop for scattered stars, while a silver ring frames the hour and minute markers.
The hands follow the thematic design, though legibility is slightly compromised—a deliberate choice that invites wearers to linger on the dial’s artistry. While some may find this impractical, others will appreciate the thoughtful craftsmanship.
Hidden Mechanics and Historical Touches
Powered by the Miyota 9122 automatic movement, the Star Chronicle displays the day, date, and month—an uncommon feature in this price range. Hvilina enhanced the movement with a custom rotor depicting the “cosmic theatre,” inspired by 16th-century Belarusian puppet shows. The watch even arrives in an elaborately crafted box shaped like a traditional puppet theater, a rare detail for its category.
Unexpected Practicality
Despite its ornate design, the Star Chronicle boasts 100 meters of water resistance, thanks to a screw-down crown—unusual for a non-sports watch. This underscores Hvilina’s commitment to quality in every aspect.
A Statement on the Wrist
The 43mm case wears comfortably, with a well-proportioned crown that avoids wrist irritation. Paired with a smooth blue leather strap and butterfly clasp, the watch makes a bold yet refined statement. Limited to 500 pieces per colorway, each watch is individually numbered, adding exclusivity.
Priced at €493, the Star Chronicle offers exceptional value—a timepiece that blends storytelling, artistry, and mechanical ingenuity into one striking package.
