Two new references showcase the independent watchmaker’s evolving visual language through a more open dial architecture
China April 8, 2026
Qian GuoBiao presents the Skylight, a new model that marks an important step in the continued evolution of his work as an independent watchmaker. Offered in two distinct executions, the AB-05 Skylight Original and AB-05S Skylight Sun, the Skylight is Qian GuoBiao’s first partially skeletonized wristwatch, opening up the dial side to reveal more of the movement while preserving the calm balance and visual clarity that define his approach.
While more open in execution than earlier models, the Skylight remains firmly rooted in the visual language Qian GuoBiao has been steadily refining. From the visible balance wheel on the dial side to the measured use of depth, texture, and proportion, the watch introduces a more expressive architecture without losing the restraint and coherence that have become central to his work.
An Openworked Expression of Qian GuoBiao’s Watchmaking
At once mechanical and restrained, the Skylight gives collectors a more direct view into Qian GuoBiao’s design language. The watch brings several of his signature elements into sharper focus, including a visible balance wheel on the dial side, an open display of the gear train, and the refined stainless steel case with a stepped bezel that adds subtle depth without unnecessary excess. The result is a piece that feels more architectural than decorative, with each visible element serving both a visual and mechanical purpose.
The Skylight is powered by the in-house, hand-wound AB-05 caliber, developed and hand-finished by Qian GuoBiao. Beating at 18,000 vibrations per hour and offering a 40-hour power reserve, the movement continues Qian GuoBiao’s preference for slower-beat traditional mechanics, while the partially skeletonized layout allows the wearer to engage more directly with the watch's motion in daily use. With the balance wheel, wheels, bridges, and key functional components all given room to breathe on the dial side, the Skylight carries a stronger sense of depth and animation than previous models, while still remaining recognizably a Qian GuoBiao creation.
Two Distinct Executions
Two versions of the Skylight will be offered. The AB-05 Skylight Original features a silver industrial dial, giving the watch a more understated and monochromatic appearance. The AB-05S Skylight Sun takes a warmer, more expressive approach, pairing the open movement architecture with a hand-engraved, gold-coloured tremblage dial that creates a richly textured surface alongside the exposed mechanics. While the two references share the same case, caliber, and overall layout, each offers a distinctly different character on the wrist.
Despite the more open design, the Skylight remains compact and wearable. The 316L stainless steel case measures 39mm in diameter, 10mm thick, and 46mm lug-to-lug, giving the watch a balanced modern profile that still feels restrained on the wrist. Sapphire crystals front and back allow full appreciation of the watch from both sides, while 50 meters of water resistance adds a level of practicality suited to daily wear. Each watch is paired with a custom JeaYou strap chosen to complement its respective dial color.
Presentation at Time to Watches 2026
The Skylight also reflects Qian GuoBiao’s continuing interest in revealing craft through structure rather than excess. Rather than skeletonization used for spectacle alone, the watch opens only what needs to be opened, preserving strong visual anchors across the dial while letting the mechanical life of the piece come forward naturally. It is a more expressive watch than some of his earlier models, but still one grounded in proportion, legibility, and quiet technical confidence.
Qian GuoBiao will exhibit the Skylight alongside his other timepieces at Time to Watches 2026 in Geneva this April, where collectors, media, and industry visitors will be able to experience the watch in person as part of the brand’s growing international presence.
Availability & Ordering
The Qian GuoBiao Skylight is available to order now, priced at CHF 29,000 / USD 37,000. Production is limited to 12 pieces of the AB-05 Skylight Original and 18 pieces of the AB-05S Skylight Sun, reflecting the small-scale and highly personal nature of Qian GuoBiao’s watchmaking.
As with all of his timepieces, orders are handled through direct inquiry, giving collectors the opportunity to engage more closely with the maker and the philosophy behind each piece.
Key Specifications
Model: Skylight
References: AB-05 Skylight Original / AB-05S Skylight Sun
Case: 316L stainless steel, 39mm diameter, 10mm thickness, 46mm lug-to-lug
Movement: In-house caliber AB-05, hand-wound, 18,000 vph, 40-hour power reserve,
17 jewels
Water Resistance: 50 meters
Strap: 20mm JeaYou custom strap
Edition: AB-05 Skylight Original: 12 pieces / AB-05S Skylight Sun: 18 pieces
Price: CHF 29,000 / USD 37,000 / HKD 290,000 / EUR 32,000