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'Γͺtre 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
