Atelier Wen and Andrew rendezvous in Paris with a special Perception watch
Zach BlassAtelier Wen proudly makes its watches in China, but Andrew takes a look at a special one-of-three piece that was technically made, in part, in Geneva – specifically the Beau Rivage Hotel. Atelier Wen is known for outfitting its watches with true guilloché dials, fabricated by Chinese artisan Master Cheng Yu Can, in his countryside workshop. But Master Cheng was flown out during Geneva Watch Week, and during his time in Geneva demonstrated his guilloché prowess on three precious silver discs later assembled during the week in Switzerland within three Perception watches. Thus, “Fake Made in China.”
Andrew and Atelier Wen founder Robin Tallendier also discuss the inspiration and ethos behind the general collection’s design: its 70s aesthetic, its engraved dragon caseback inspired by Chinese temples, the quirk of a smiling movement exhibition window, and more.
The notion of a ‘Made in China’ watch may scare watch snobs, but Atelier Wen and its Perception watch is a prime example of how proper watches can be crafted in the region. It utilises a 904L stainless steel case and bracelet. Its dial is crafted by the only guilloché master artisan in the whole of China and Asia, Master Cheng – who requires 8 hours to create each dial. And, yet, the 100-metre water-resistant watch can be had for US$3,288. You will not be able to purchase the special model presented to Andrew, but it is clear amongst the standard Perception offering, in its current second version, quite a ton of value stands to be had.
Atelier Wen Perception pricing and availability
The Atelier Wen Perception is available now for order via the Atelier Wen website. Price: US$3,288.
| Brand | Atelier Wen |
| Model | Perception |
| Reference | 46570588832064 (Piao, blue) 46570589061440 (Xia, salmon) 46570589094208 (Ying, grey-brown) |
| Case Dimensions | 40mm (D) x 9.4mm (T) x 47mm (LTL) |
| Case Material | Stainless steel |
| Water Resistance | 100 metres |
| Crystal(s) | Sapphire |
| Dial | Piao, blue Xia, salmon Ying, grey-brown |
| Bracelet | Integrated stainless steel |
| Movement | Dandong SL1588 |
| Power Reserve | 41 hours |
| Functions | Hours, minutes, seconds |
| Availability | Now |
| Price | US$3,288 |