The original J12 in black ceramic (2000) and in white ceramic (2003)
Cover The original J12 in black ceramic (2000) and in white ceramic (2003)
When it was first launched in 2000, the J12 watch quickly caught the attention of connoisseurs for its beautiful black case crafted in ceramic, a material coveted for its extreme hardness (which is four times harder than steel) and scratch-proof quality. It was conceived by Chanel's artistic director, the late Jacques Helleu, who wanted a beautiful luxury watch but with a difference—suffice it to say, he got his wish.

Distinguished by pure lines and innovations, over the years the J12 has appeared in many forms, from haute horlogerie to haute joaillerie, each designed to showcase the maison's unique artisanal skills. For certain, the J12 has helped a Parisian fashion brand like Chanel to be considered a serious player in Swiss watchmaking.

See also: The New Chanel J12 Is Armed With A New In-House Movement

'gallery right' 'gallery right'
'gallery right' 'gallery right'
Photo 1 of 10 Also released this year is J12 Paradoxe that pairs black and white ceramic in a single watch
Photo 2 of 10 The original J12 in black ceramic (2000) and in white ceramic (2003)
Photo 3 of 10 J12 welcomed its first grand complication in the form of a tourbillon in 2005
Photo 4 of 10 The J12 GMT, endowed with a calibre from Audemars Piguet, was launched in 2007
Photo 5 of 10 In 2009, Chanel cut up a block of ceramic into baguette-shaped cubes and set them on the watch to create a new alluring aesthetic known as J12 Noir Intense
Photo 6 of 10 Chanel worked with watchmaker Giulio Papi of Renaud & Papi in 2010 to create J12 Rétrograde Mystérieuse that featured a retrograde minutes hand, a digital minute display and a retractable crown
Photo 7 of 10 Set fully in diamonds, the J12 appeared with a flying tourbillon in the form of a star in 2014
Photo 8 of 10 In 2019, the J12 was armed with a new movement, Caliber 12.1, developed by Swiss movement maker Kenissi, of which Chanel has a 20% stake
Photo 9 of 10 This year, J12 achieves a new level of transparency with the J12 X-Ray boldly eschewing ceramic for a sapphire crystal case
Photo 10 of 10 Celebrating its 20th anniversary is the J12-20 that decorates the dial with 20 iconic symbols and references of the maison including the Chanel No.5 bottle, the 2.55 bag, the camelia and, of course, the tweed jacket

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