he ‘Concrete Jungle’ draws inspiration from the popularity of stone dial watches, where natural stones are used as dials. While concrete is not a natural stone, its stone-like characteristics and industrial aesthetic make it a fascinating alternative. The result is a unique “stone-adjacent” dial that stands out in the world of contemporary watchmaking.
Hong Kong, home to The Horology Club and famously known as the “concrete jungle”, served as the muse for this design. The city’s iconic skyline and urban energy are reflected in the dial, which incorporates lume-infused concrete, making it the first luminous concrete dial ever created. This feature ensures legibility in the dark, paying homage to Hong Kong’s reputation as a city that never sleeps.
The use of concrete aligns with Holthinrichs’ modernist design concept, “Horlogerie Brut”, inspired by Le Corbusier’s Béton Brut. The concept embraces heavy textural contrasts, material honesty, natural patinas, and raw aesthetics directly derived from manufacturing processes, contrasted with selectively applied manual finishing. The concept reflects Holthinrichs’ commitment to forward-thinking technology and a deep dedication to craftsmanship, and the belief that only pure materials offer true sustainability and durability.
Further enhancing the dial are numeric indices in oracle bone script, the oldest form of Chinese writing. These indices appear carved into the concrete, but are in fact created using a meticulous moulding process.
Combined with Holthinrichs’ signature RAW finishing on the case, the watch exudes an ancient yet modern aesthetic.
Case Options
Owners of the Signature Ornament ‘Concrete Jungle’ can choose between two distinct case options:
1. Signature Ornament Case
- CNC-machined with polished, brushed, and grained surfaces for maximum visual interest.
- Features a satin brushed bezel and a polished titanium ring surrounding the dial, offering a striking contrast to the concrete texture.
2. Signature LAB Case
- Crafted using advanced 3D printing technology.
- Allows for intricate details, such as the skeleton lugs unique to the LAB series.
- Both options are crafted from Grade 5 titanium, ensuring durability, lightweight wear, and a refined finish.
TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS
- Case Diameter: 38.5mm
- Case Material: Grade 5 Titanium
- Case Thickness: 9.85mm
- Lug-to-Lug Distance: 46mm
- Dial: Luminova-infused concrete with a metal base
- Caliber: Modified Sellita SW-300
- Limited Edition: 50 pieces (LAB series case), time limited release (Ornament case)
- THC Reference: THC05T (LAB series case), THC06H (Ornament case)
- Availability: The Signature Ornament ‘Concrete Jungle’ in LAB series case is available as a limited edition of just 50 pieces, and the Ornament case will be available as a time limited release. For more information, visit The Horology Club.