January 22nd marks the beginning of the Chinese New Year and thus will kick off the Year of the Rabbit. The twelve animals of the Chinese zodiac are representative symbols of Chinese history, mythology, and customs. More than any other of the animals in the zodiac, the rabbit is closely associated with luck and bringing good fortune. Today, to mark the occasion, we are taking a look at seven brands paying homage to the Year of the Rabbit through new celebratory designs.
Blancpain Villeret Calendrier Chinois Traditionnel
Blancpain is introducing an updated version of its Traditional Chinese Calendar model, this time aptly honoring the Rabbit. The Villeret Calendrier Chinois Traditionnel combines the principles of the traditional Chinese lunisolar calendar with the Gregorian calendar date. As an expression of these two intervals of time, the dial layout utilizes numbers and symbols across three subdials, a moonphase aperture, and a window at 12 o’clock that depicts an image of a rabbit. On the reverse, the crystal case back reveals an oscillating weight that is engraved with two rabbits.
The Blancpain Villeret Calendrier Chinois Traditionnel is limited to production of 50 pieces, each retailing for approximately $94,000 when converted to USD.
Piaget Altiplano Rabbit
Taking a straightforward and sophisticated approach to this year’s zodiac symbol is Piaget with its Altiplano Zodiac. The dial of the model depicts two rabbits, achieved by a delicate Grand-Feu cloisonné enamel technique. The small-scale artwork was created in partnership with master enameler Anita Porchet to create the soft detailing of the two rabbits. Measuring 38mm in diameter with a svelte height of 6.6mm, the white gold case is finished with a diamond-studded bezel that furthers its elegance.
The Piaget Altiplano Zodiac Rabbit is limited to 38 individually numbered pieces that are available in the brand’s boutiques with the price available upon request.