Hands-On Review of Qian GuoBiao Facing The Sky 2.0

In the realm of independent watchmaking, where tradition and innovation converge, Qian GuoBiao emerges as a distinguished craftsman from China, renowned for his exceptional watch repair skills over the past decades. His latest creation, the Facing The Sky 2.0, exemplifies this ethos by harmoniously blending classical techniques with modern design, appealing to collectors and enthusiasts alike. This review explores the watch's design, movement, wearing experience, and its significance in the luxury watch market.

Background

Qian GuoBiao, often referred to as "Dr. Tourbillon" within the Chinese watch community, hails from Ninghai in the Zhejiang province, a region celebrated for its mechanical heritage. His fascination with mechanics began in childhood, as he disassembled various mechanical objects, including his father's Shanghai-brand wristwatch. This early curiosity laid the groundwork for his extensive career in watchmaking. By 2005, he dedicated himself fully to watch repair, during which time he developed his in-house movement and showcased his artistry and technical skill.

The Facing The Sky 2.0, designated with the reference number AB-02-2.0, is a testament to this legacy, closely linked to his renowned in-house AB-02 movement, recognized for its hand-finished details.

Design and Aesthetics

The Facing The Sky 2.0 features a 39mm case crafted from 316L stainless steel, chosen for its durability and resistance to corrosion. At 12.5mm thick, including the crystal, the watch maintains a slim profile that ensures comfort while housing its sophisticated movement. The silver dial is elegantly understated, providing a refined backdrop for the intricate details of the timepiece. A particularly striking feature is the visible balance wheel on the dial side—a rare and captivating element that offers wearers a glimpse into the heart of the movement. This design choice not only enhances the watch's aesthetic appeal but also reflects Qian's confidence in his craftsmanship.

The dial layout includes a sub-dial for hours and minutes, inspired by Qian's artistic vision, potentially drawing from his earlier works, such as the AB-02 "Facing the Sky," which was influenced by a bird's-eye view of the cityscape. The watch is complemented by a custom leather strap from Jea You, known for its superior quality, ensuring both comfort and harmony with the overall design. With a water resistance of 50 meters, the Facing The Sky 2.0 is suitable for everyday wear, although its true value lies in its role as a collector's piece.

At the heart of the Facing The Sky 2.0 is the in-house AB-02 caliber, a manually wound movement that exemplifies Qian's dedication to traditional watchmaking. With 16 jewels and a frequency of 18,000 vibrations per hour, this movement boasts a power reserve of 40 hours. The hand-finishing applied to the movement is a hallmark of independent watchmaking, with each component meticulously decorated to the highest standards. Signature features include Qian's distinctive bird click, blade-shaped escape wheel bridge, and arrow-shaped balance wheel bridge.

The visible balance wheel on the dial side adds a dynamic element, allowing wearers to appreciate the movement's inner workings—a nod to the transparency and honesty that Qian embodies in his craft. This feature, combined with the movement's 40-hour power reserve, establishes the Facing The Sky 2.0 as a timepiece that prioritizes craftsmanship over extended autonomy.

Wearing Experience and Dimensions

On the wrist, the Facing The Sky 2.0 strikes a harmonious balance between presence and wearability. Its 39mm case size is versatile, accommodating a wide range of wrist sizes, while the custom leather strap from JeaYou ensures comfort throughout the day. The watch's slim profile and lightweight construction, courtesy of the 316L stainless steel, make it a practical companion for daily wear. Although it boasts a water resistance of 50 meters, its true allure lies in its ability to inspire conversation and admiration among fellow enthusiasts, particularly due to the visibility of the balance wheel, a feature that distinguishes it from more conventional luxury watches.

Price, Availability, and Exclusivity

The Facing The Sky 2.0 is available exclusively through a subscription model, limited to just 12 pieces, priced at USD 30,000. This exclusivity ensures that each piece is crafted with meticulous care and attention to detail, making it a highly sought-after addition to any collection. The subscription model reflects Qian's commitment to maintaining a close relationship with his clients, ensuring each watch is appreciated by those who truly understand its value. This pricing is consistent with the high level of craftsmanship and limited production typical of independent watchmakers, positioning it as a rare opportunity for collectors.

Conclusion

The Qian GuoBiao Facing The Sky 2.0 transcends the conventional definition of a watch; it represents a celebration of independent watchmaking at its finest. With its integration of traditional craftsmanship and innovative design, it stands as a testament to what can be achieved when passion, precision, and artistry converge. The visible balance wheel, hand-finished movement, and exclusive subscription model make it a collector's dream, offering a unique insight into the world of one of China's premier watchmakers. For those fortunate enough to own one, it is not merely a timepiece but a statement of appreciation for the art of horology.

Summary