CIGA Design Mechanical Automatic Watch Blue Planet U Series

When it comes to luxury timepieces, the CIGA Design Blue Planet Gilded Age stands out as both a technical marvel and an aesthetic masterpiece. CIGA Design, a brand known for its unique approach to horology, continues to push the boundaries of design, blending contemporary minimalism with mechanical aesthetics. With its debut of pure 24K gold and an intricate, innovative design, the Blue Planet Gilded Age is more than just a watch – it’s a conversation starter, a symbol of wealth, and a celebration of craftsmanship.

A Watch That Tells Time in a New Way

One of the standout features of this watch is its innovative time-telling mechanism. Using a single pointer, the hour hand rotates 30°, while the minute hand rotates 390°. This ingenious alteration in the gear ratio transforms the way we read time. While reading the time is relatively easy at a glance, the numbers on the inner ring may be difficult to read, especially for those without perfect eyesight. A glow-in-the-dark feature would enhance legibility, particularly in low light conditions. However, the novelty and uniqueness of the time-keeping mechanism more than make up for this minor inconvenience.

An Elegant Design with Impressive Materials

The Blue Planet Gilded Age is a true testament to CIGA Design’s dedication to quality. The watch's dial is a marvel, intricately detailing oceans, mountains, and landmasses, which are micro-craved and gilded in layers. The design mimics the Earth’s true topography, capturing the ratio of continents to oceans and even showcasing the altitude of the terrain. As the first CIGA Design watch to feature 24K gold, the Blue Planet Gilded Age exudes an elegance and sophistication that makes it more of a jewelry piece than just a functional watch.

The watch's ceramic case is a masterstroke of design – lightweight, resistant, and smooth to the touch. It feels luxurious on the wrist, offering a perfect balance of comfort and style. The polished bevels of the markers and numbers add an additional jewel-like effect that sparkles with the movement of the wrist, creating a dynamic interplay of light and shadow.

Comfort and Wearability

While the aesthetics of this watch are undoubtedly captivating, the CIGA Design Blue Planet Gilded Age also excels in comfort. Its smooth rounded contours help it wear smaller despite its size, making it feel like a natural extension of the wrist. The stainless steel option is a fantastic choice for those who prefer a little heft with their watch. It's not top-heavy, which makes it incredibly comfortable for all-day wear, even for those with sensitive skin. The silicone strap, in particular, does not cause irritation or pull on wrist hairs, which is a common issue with other watches.

A Pricier Option, But Worth It

Though the CIGA Design Blue Planet Gilded Age is undeniably a luxurious piece, it comes at a premium price. For some, this may be seen as overpriced, but for watch enthusiasts and collectors, it’s a must-have. The craftsmanship, the use of pure gold, and the unique mechanical movement make it well worth the investment. The only downside is that the watch box does not include tools for adjusting the ceramic strap, meaning that resizing it would require a visit to a watchmaker – a minor inconvenience for some.

Precision and Performance

For those concerned about the watch’s performance, the CIGA Design Blue Planet Gilded Age delivers exceptional accuracy. After testing it on a timeographer, it was found to run at 28,800 vibrations per hour, with almost zero beat error (ranging between 0 and 0.1 depending on the position). The watch is accurate to within 10 seconds per day, making it a reliable timepiece that can be worn daily.

A Legacy of Gold

Gold has been a symbol of wealth, power, and eternal beauty for millennia, and the Blue Planet Gilded Age continues that legacy. From the ancient Greek myth of King Midas to the wealth generated by the California Gold Rush, gold is a metal that has captivated humanity for centuries. The Blue Planet Gilded Age incorporates this rich history by introducing 24K gold into its design, offering a watch that is as much a tribute to the past as it is a marvel of modern craftsmanship.

A Timeless Masterpiece

CIGA Design has successfully created a watch that blends artistic elegance with technical innovation. The Blue Planet Gilded Age is not just a timepiece but a statement of style, sophistication, and craftsmanship. While the price may be steep for some, the quality, precision, and unique design make it a worthy investment for those who appreciate both the art and science of watchmaking. Whether you’re a watch enthusiast or simply someone who enjoys owning beautifully crafted items, the Blue Planet Gilded Age is sure to impress and will undoubtedly be a conversation starter wherever you go.

Brian A.