Arnold & Son Nebula: Movement & Design Overview

amanico · 2023-12-19T16:40:22Z

Explore the Arnold & Son Nebula, an underrated masterpiece. Discover its unique movement-as-dial design, case variations, and collector insights.

amanico

WPS member · Independents forum

57 replies11085 views6 photos

Amanico's insightful review of the Arnold & Son Nebula highlights a timepiece he considers an 'under the radar and underrated masterpiece.' His detailed examination of its design evolution, movement architecture, and finishing underscores why this watch, where the movement itself serves as the dial, stands out in haute horology. This article delves into the community's shared appreciation and diverse perspectives on this unique reference.

Warning: The Nebula is a totally under the radar and underrated masterpiece.

Unveiled in 2016 first in gold with a 41, 5 mm case, it became available in 2018 with the choice between two cases, in steel or in gold. And in 2020, if my memory serves me well, the Nebula also comes in 38 mm, with a blue dial in 2022.

The 38 and the 41, 5 mm have the same case height: 8, 73 mm, which gives a super harmony to the watch.

But the true raison d'être of this watch is the movement. Here, this is one of these very rare watches whose movement IS the dial, or used as a dial, which is an ode to Symmetry and Beauty.

Indeed, on the dial side, you have 7 bridges 6 + 1 at three o' clock which is " open ", triangle shaped, and skeletonized . Between 1 and 2 o' clock and 10 and 11 o' clock, you have the two barrels, echoing with the small seconds at 7 o' clock and the balance wheel at 5 o' clock. All these elements and parts are radiating from the center. Astonishing.

And here again, as with all Arnold and Son watches, the level of finishings is outstanding, with all the classic techniques of fine Horology, such as beveling ( bridges and wheels ), sunray decorated barrel covers and golden chatons with beveled and mirror-polished heads. Remarkable, both front and back sides.

The AS 5201 movement, from Lajoux-Perret, is manual winding, as you can see, beats at 21, 600 alternances per hour, and, cherry on the cake, it offers a power reserve of 90 hours. It is 31, 10 mm big and only 4, 18 mm high, which is enough to fit into a 38 or a 41, 5 mm case.

So, steel or gold, anthracite ( good or steel ) or blue ( steel ), 38 mm or 41, 5 mm? While, usually, I would favor a 38 mm case, here I would go for the 41, 5 mm one, because of its remarkable skeleton dial which you can enjoy even more with a bigger case. And most probably in steel, with the blue dial which adds some real cool factor.

I must say that it is one of my biggest coups I could discover in real life only this year.

What are your thoughts on this one?

Best,

Nicolas

Key Points from the Discussion

The 41.5mm case size, despite having the same movement as the 38mm, is often preferred because its wider minute track allows the intricate dial design more room to breathe, enhancing visual appeal.
The seven bridges perfectly aligned with the dial create an architectural tour de force, complemented by the supremely elegant case with its stepped lugs, contributing to the watch's overall symmetry.
While the Nebula's mechanical beauty is undeniable, some collectors find legibility challenging when the hands are in certain positions, suggesting that black hands might improve readability.
The watch's value proposition is considered strong, especially given its intricate dial and high level of finishing, though some regret not acquiring it when prices were lower.
The brand's reputation for larger watches makes the introduction of a smaller 38mm Nebula a welcome development, aligning with a broader trend towards more modest case sizes.
The blue dial in steel or titanium is particularly appealing for its 'cool factor' and subtlety, making it a winning combination for many collectors.

The Discussion

MichaelC

Dec 19, 2023

Legibility, IMO, is poor when the hands are in certain positions. Maybe black hands would help on both models. But maybe this is not a watch for reading the time as much as admiring the mechanics. It is a beauty.

mdg

Dec 19, 2023

...would be uneasy with the misalignment of the bridges...does that make sense?

patrick_y

Dec 19, 2023

The 7 bridges that line up perfectly with the dial is an architecture tour de force! The case with its stepped lugs is also supremely elegant. The symmetry is wonderful. I'd go for the rose gold one here, and since you're leaning on the larger size, that's likely where I'd lean too.

Jtl

Dec 19, 2023

Agreed. The case size of 41.5mm with its overt display of the movement is so charming. The blue dial in steel or even titanium would be a winner IMO for both of its cool factor and subtlety.

aWtchslvr

Dec 19, 2023

and, as you know, since then I’m seriously considering it. The dial is a feast for the eyes. The bracelet not so much my taste. I suppose there was no place for a PR indicator, which I think is a good thing in a handwound. I wish I’ve had the opportunity to see it a couple of years ago when it was cheaper. Anyway I think it’s a good value for money. Thanks for the review.

TeutonicCarFan

Dec 19, 2023

I just need to learn more about the brand, longevity, dealers, etc. They had typically run on the large side, so it is nice to see the smaller model here. Their moonphase and Luna magna models are definitely eye catchers.

Continue the conversation

This thread is active on the Independents forum with 57 replies. Share your knowledge with fellow collectors.

Join the Discussion →

Arnold & Son Nebula: Movement & Design Overview

Key Points from the Discussion

Continue the conversation

More from this Forum