An homage to China’s first AHCI watchmaker and a pioneering voice in Chinese independent watchmaking
Independent Atelier proudly presents Project Tai Yu, a tribute to the life and legacy of Kiu Tai Yu, China’s first AHCI member and a foundational figure in Chinese independent watchmaking. Kiu passed away in 2020, leaving behind a small but deeply influential body of work.
His Millennium watch, produced in the year 2000, was limited to just twenty pieces and has since become one of the most elusive examples of early Chinese independent horology. That watch now serves as the foundation for Project Tai Yu, providing both the mechanical reference and the philosophical starting point for this modern homage.
A Decade-Long Search
For more than a decade, Benjamin Hui, founder of Independent Atelier, searched for an original example. That search eventually led him to acquire two of Kiu Tai Yu’s watches, an experience that shaped both his understanding of the AHCI and his appreciation for the quiet technical confidence behind Kiu’s work.
“I have been a huge admirer of Master Kiu Tai Yu for more than thirteen years,” says Hui. “I spent over ten years tracking down two of his watches. He was the reason I first came to understand the AHCI, and his work as the first Chinese watchmaker to join the organization played a defining role in shaping my respect for independent watchmakers.”
From Research to Revival
Rather than keeping these discoveries private, Hui chose to turn research into revival. He partnered with Zhang YuXin, a talented young Chinese watchmaker and GPHG Academy member, to study Kiu Tai Yu’s original Millennium Watch movement in detail and learn about its design and construction. Working closely together, the pair focused on understanding the intent behind the movement, not just its layout, before bringing it back to life.
“I knew how difficult it was to find his watches, ” Hui explains. “I was also aware that there are collectors around the world who would love to own a piece of his work. That is why I decided to share that passion and bring the watch and its movement back to life.”
Project Tai Yu’s movement carries the designation IATY-01. While visually faithful to the original architecture, it has been carefully upgraded using modern techniques to improve reliability and long-term performance. The work reflects a shared effort between Hui, Zhang YuXin, and the wider Independent Atelier circle, blending research, bench work, and contemporary refinement.
Honoring the Original
The dial layout closely follows the structure of Kiu Tai Yu’s Millennium watch. The upper section is dominated by an exposed balance wheel, held in place by a dual-sided bridge secured with flame-blued screws. This open display brings the movement to the forefront, reflecting Kiu’s belief that mechanics should be visible, not hidden.
The lower section features a raised time subdial, now executed in upgraded materials and paired with flame-blued hands. At twelve o’clock, the year 2025 is printed as a quiet marker of the moment this homage is realized.
The time display uses a traditional Suzhou-style layout, combining Traditional and Simplified Chinese numerals with Roman and Western Arabic numerals. This mixture reflects both cultural heritage and personal identity, referencing Kiu Tai Yu’s roots in the Suzhou region.
Flanking the subdial are two inscriptions that appeared on the original watch. On the left, 吉祥如意 expresses a wish for good fortune and harmony. On the right, 千年之禧 celebrates the millennium, a subtle nod to the release of Kiu’s original creation.
A Movement Revisited
Project Tai Yu’s movement carries the designation IATY-01. While visually faithful to the original architecture, it has been carefully upgraded using modern techniques to improve reliability and long-term performance.
“While we were reverse engineering the movement, I truly understood how far ahead of his time Master Kiu was, ” Hui says.“He essentially used his own handmade components to compose the movement.”
The upgrades include refinements to the escapement, balance shaft, Incabloc shock protection, regulator, and hairspring. Every change was purposeful, designed to preserve the spirit and appearance of the original while ensuring the watch meets contemporary expectations for durability and precision.
Dial and Exterior Refinements
On the dial side, several upgrades further elevate the execution while maintaining visual continuity. The main black dial is now produced in porcelain enamel. The Tai Yu inscription on the left side of the case is rendered in cold enamel, as is the upgraded buckle.
Despite these refinements, the overall appearance remains intentionally close to the original watch. The intention was never to modernize the design, but rather to subtly enhance it without compromising its character.
Availability
Project Tai Yu will be produced in a strictly limited edition of twenty-five pieces. Each watch reflects a significant investment of time, research, and handwork. Ordering details and delivery timelines will be shared directly by Independent Atelier.
Technical Specifications
Brand: Independent Atelier
Model: Project 大羽 (Hommage to Master Kiu Tai Yu)
Case material: 18K yellow gold
Case dimensions: 35mm x 46mm x 11.2mm (including sapphire crystal)
Crystal: Sapphire crystal on front and back
Water resistance: 30 meters
Movement: IATY-01, 28,800 vph, 25 jewels, 60 hours of power reserve
Strap: JeaYou alligator leather
Availability: Limited to 25 pieces
Price: 30,500 CHF
About Independent Atelier
Independent Atelier was founded by Benjamin Hui together with a circle of fellow GPHG Academy members and independent watchmaking peers. Conceived as a collaborative platform, Independent Atelier exists to support and showcase independent watchmakers on an international stage. Through small-scale, research-driven work, Independent Atelier seeks to connect craftsmanship, experimentation, and cultural storytelling under one shared platform.
For established watchmakers, the atelier offers a space to explore ideas that may not comfortably fit within their own brand frameworks. For emerging or smaller-scale makers, it provides an opportunity to develop, experiment, and be incubated without the immediate pressure of launching a standalone brand.
For press inquiries, sales, or further information, please contact:
Benjamin Hui
📧contact@independentatelier.com
📞 +852 5396 2340