The Purple Pleaser
Hot off the press is the new Perception Millésime Mù from Atelier Wen. Their identity is rooted in its name, which translates to “culture workshop.” It combines the French word *Atelier*, meaning workshop, with the Chinese character 文 (*Wén*), symbolising culture. This project brings together French and Chinese creatives with a shared mission: to redefine modern Chinese style and present it in innovative ways that resonate with those who appreciate beauty and meaningful craftsmanship.
Something Special
This special edition of Perception, titled ‘睦 (Mù),’ represents the brand’s first non-collaborative limited release. As with previous editions, it features a full Grade 5 titanium case and bracelet, paired with a captivating purple dial.
This release marks the beginning of a new direction for the brand, with the introduction of the Millésime series—a yearly, limited-edition collection shaped by its community. The 2024 edition, named 睦 (Mù), symbolises amity and connection, reflecting the brand’s deep appreciation for the growing community that surrounds it.
Perception Millésime Mù has several long-awaited features from the community’s wish list. Its dial is crafted in a unique shade of purple, achieved after 3-4 rounds of refinement, which shifts dramatically between a rich, regal purple and vibrant ultraviolet depending on the lighting. This mesmerizing effect is created using physical vapour deposition (PVD). The dial also showcases Atelier Wen’s signature *écaille de poisson* (fish scale) guilloché pattern, maintaining a connection to previous Perception models like 缥 (Piāo), 影 (Yǐng), and 霞 (Xiá).
The purple dial is beautifully paired with the deeper tones of the Grade 5 titanium case and bracelet, creating a harmonious interplay between the components. While Grade 5 titanium has been reserved for limited-edition collaborations in the past, this release marks the first time Atelier Wen has introduced the material in a series that is entirely their own.
Proudly Made In China
The Easter Egg Tantalum Tickets
In addition to the standard offering, the release of 睦 (Mù) includes an exciting surprise for three fortunate collectors. While the official launch will feature the watch in titanium, three randomly selected individuals will receive a prototype crafted entirely in tantalum—one of the rarest and densest metals available.
To further distinguish these special pieces, each of the three boxes will contain a solid tantalum ticket, a playful nod to Willy Wonka’s golden ticket from Roald Dahl’s *Charlie and the Chocolate Factory*. This unique touch adds a gamified element, offering an unexpected reward for a few lucky members of the community.
The Perception Of Value
There’s a tendency to overlook achievements from China, often associating them with mass production and lower quality. Atelier Wen is working hard to change that perception, especially with the Perception model. They proudly display “Made in China” on the case back, and for good reason—the brand is a harmonious fusion of Chinese culture and philosophy with French expertise in fine watchmaking.
The integrated bracelet draws inspiration from the Genta era of the 1970s, a style that has become increasingly popular across many brands today. The case and bracelet complement each other seamlessly, but the true highlight is the dial. Each guilloché dial is meticulously handmade by Master Chen, who personally crafted the rose engine he uses for hand-turning each intricate design.
My Thoughts
Atelier Wen has been on my radar for a couple of years, ever since Andrew Morgan first introduced me to this emerging Chinese brand. I was excited about the seconde/seconde collaboration last year, though I unfortunately missed the chance to grab one. However, we’ll have one in soon for a full review. Until then, I can only base my impressions on what I’ve seen and heard.
The Perception has received glowing reviews, and those I’ve spoken to praise its finishing and value for money. There was some debate about the dials, but that seems to have been resolved. The Perception Millésime Mù will be a big hit, as this appears to be on point and is what their customers want. I’m eagerly awaiting a hands-on experience, though I have a feeling I might not want to give it back once I do.
Specifications
- Case: Grade 5 Titanium with contrasting surfaces
- Dimensions: 40mm x 47mm x 9.4mm
- Crown: Signed, crew-down crown.
- Water Resistance: 100m/10ATM
- Crystal: Double-domed sapphire
- Dial: Purple hand-crafted guilloché dial
- Caseback: Hammered texture – raised stone lion motif
- Clasp: 22mm at the lugs to 18mm at the clasp
- Movement: Custom Dandong SL1588A automatic
- Price: $3,588.00 excl VAT
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