Description
The Shanghai Watch Auspicious Steeds Limited Edition brings traditional Chinese symbolism into a contemporary mechanical watch format.
Its mother-of-pearl dial serves as both a decorative surface and a storytelling element, setting it apart from the brand’s more restrained models.
Inspiration & Cultural Design
The “Auspicious Steeds” theme draws from traditional Chinese cultural motifs, where horses symbolise strength, progress, and success.
This narrative is translated onto the dial through detailed artwork, creating a watch that leans more toward artistic expression than conventional dress watch minimalism.
Unlike the Pioneer or 1955 series, this piece is designed to be visually engaging first, with heritage references embedded into the design.
Dial & Case Details
The mother-of-pearl dial forms the foundation of the watch’s identity.
Its natural iridescence creates shifting tones under light, adding depth and variation that cannot be replicated through standard dial finishes.
The engraved or printed horse motif sits against this surface, giving the watch a layered, almost dimensional quality.
The 40mm case provides enough space for the dial artwork to be appreciated without feeling oversized on the wrist.
Movement & Mechanics
Powering the watch is the self-winding ST812 automatic movement, delivering dependable accuracy and approximately 42 hours of power reserve.
The transparent sapphire caseback reveals a decorated movement finished with traditional fish-scale engraving - a subtle mechanical detail that complements the artistry on the dial.
Reliable, refined, and built for everyday wear.
Strap & Wearability
Paired with a leather strap, the watch maintains a dress-oriented profile despite its more expressive dial.
At 40mm, it wears slightly more contemporary than traditional dress watches, making it easier to integrate into both formal and smart-casual settings.
Final Impression
This is not a conventional dress watch.
It sits closer to a wearable piece of design - where cultural symbolism and material choice take precedence over restraint.
For the right wearer, that distinction is exactly the appeal.
Technical Specifications
| Limited edition: |
Only 999 pieces available worldwide |
| Case size: |
40mm |
| Case material: |
316L stainless steel |
| Case back: |
Sapphire, exhibition caseback
|
| Movement type: |
Automatic |
| Movement no.: |
1812
|
| Power reserve: |
Approx 42hrs |
| Dial: |
Mother of Pearl dial with 18K white gold hand-sculpted Mahāsthāmaprāpta atop galloping horse, white gold hands |
| Glass: |
Sapphire crystal |
| Water resistance: |
5ATM |
| Strap type: |
Strap |
| Strap material: |
Black calf leather
|
| Buckle: |
Stainless steel
|
| Warranty: |
2 years |
