Description
The Shanghai Watch Originate Fangyu Grey 38mm draws inspiration from Shanghai's architectural heritage, translating historic design elements into a contemporary square-case automatic watch.
Its 316L stainless-steel case combines defined geometry with softly rounded chamfers, while a grey spark-pattern dial introduces visual depth through six concentric circular rings. A matching grey suede leather strap reinforces the watch's restrained, tonal aesthetic.
Powered by the Calibre 2130 automatic movement, the Fangyu balances distinctive design with the practicality of everyday mechanical watchmaking.
Inspiration & Design
The Fangyu takes its inspiration from The Bund City Hall Plaza, formerly known as the Old Municipal Government Building, a historic Shanghai landmark dating to 1914.
The building holds significance in Shanghai's architectural and civic history, including its association with the raising of the city's first Five-Star Red Flag.
Shanghai Watch translates this architectural language into the Fangyu's square case, where precisely defined edges are softened by rounded chamfers that echo the building's distinctive fan-shaped porticos.
The design also draws on a philosophical idea from Chapter 41 of the Tao Te Ching:
“The great square has no corners.”
This principle informs the Fangyu's balance between angular structure and softened contours, creating a silhouette that feels architectural without appearing rigid.
Dial & Case
The grey spark-pattern dial features six concentric circular rings, introducing texture and depth within the square case.
The monochromatic palette allows the dial's decorative detailing to remain subtle, while Super-LumiNova-coated hour, minute and seconds hands provide visibility in low-light conditions. A date display adds practical functionality.
The 38 × 38mm case is crafted from 316L stainless steel, with softly rounded chamfers that complement its architectural silhouette. Measuring 10mm thick, it maintains balanced proportions.
A flat sapphire crystal protects the dial, while a transparent sapphire exhibition caseback reveals the automatic movement.
Water resistance is rated at 5 bar (50 metres).
Movement
The Fangyu is powered by the Calibre 2130 automatic mechanical movement.
Operating at 28,800 vibrations per hour (4Hz), it features 28 jewels and delivers approximately 42 hours of power reserve.
Functions include hours, minutes, central seconds and a date display. The movement is visible through the transparent sapphire exhibition caseback.
Bracelet / Strap
The grey Fangyu is paired with a matching grey suede leather strap.
Its soft, matte texture complements the dial's understated colour palette while providing a tactile contrast to the stainless-steel case.
A quick-release mechanism allows for convenient strap changes.
Final Thoughts
The Shanghai Watch Originate Fangyu Grey offers a restrained interpretation of the collection's architectural design language.
Its softened square case, concentric dial detailing and monochromatic colourway create a distinctive yet versatile appearance.
Combined with the Calibre 2130 automatic movement, the Fangyu is a considered choice for collectors who appreciate contemporary Chinese watchmaking and unconventional case design.
Technical Specifications
| Case size: |
38x38mm |
| Case material: |
Stainless steel |
| Case back: |
Exhibition case back with sapphire crystal
|
| Movement type: |
Automatic |
| Movement no.: |
Calibre 2130
|
| Power reserve: |
Approx 42hrs |
| Dial: |
Grey spark-pattern with six concentric circular rings; SuperLuminova on hour, minute and second hands
|
| Glass: |
Flat sapphire crystal |
| Water resistance: |
5ATM |
| Strap type: |
Strap |
| Strap material: |
Grey suede leather
|
| Buckle: |
Stainless steel tang buckle
|
| Warranty: |
2 years |
