The Atelier Wen Inflection is a marriage of influences from China and Switzerland
Atelier Wen’s Chinese-meets-high-horology philosophy has reached a new height with the release of Inflection, touted as the world’s first tantalum watch in continuous production.
Why is this a big deal?
Although beloved for its durability and comfort, tantalum is notoriously difficult to machine. The Inflection watch not only features a case made from rare tantalum but also an integrated bracelet crafted from the same material. Additionally, it is meticulously finished, alternately brushed, frosted, and mirror-polished to give the deep bluish-grey surface a rich character.
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To complement tantalum, Atelier Wen stayed true to its roots and engaged top Chinese enameler Kong Lingjun to create the grand feu enamel dial. There are three options: green fumé (limited to 30 pieces), black, and blue. Acclaimed watch designer Lee Yuen-Rapati was responsible for the cursive design of the Arabic numerals.

Above The Atelier Wen Inflection’s dial is crafted by Chinese enameler Kong Lingjun, while the Arabic numerals are by Lee Yuen-Rapati
For the movement, Atelier Wen looked to Swiss manufacture Girard-Perregaux, specifically its GP03300 calibre. Working together with Atelier Wen’s designer Alfred Chan, they decorated the bridges with anglage and laser-ethced waved côtes for a pattern mimicking the wind in Chinese paintings. More striking is the rotor, constructed in two parts with the tungsten weight anchored by five seletonised brass spokes plated in rose gold. These spokes are similarly decorated with anglage and waved côtes.

Above Atelier Wen Inflection is powered by the GP03300 calibre, customised to its specifications
Apart from the green dial, the Inflection is not a limited edition. However, the complexity of working with tantalum makes consistent large-scale production difficult. As a result, annual output is limited, though Atelier Wen remains committed to keeping the Inflection as part of its regular collection.
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