For decades, Shanghai Watch was known as the "Rolex of China," a title earned not by price, but by sheer ubiquity and middle-class aspiration during the mid-20th century. The 1955 Series marks the 70th anniversary of the brand's first successful trial of a "slim" mechanical watch—a breakthrough that occurred on September 26, 1955.
Holding this limited edition, which is restricted to just 70 pieces globally, you feel a tension between the utilitarian past and a luxury-driven future. The dial pays homage to that 1955 prototype with meticulous engravings: "First Trial Sample" at 12 o'clock and the date "1955.10.1" above 6 o'clock.
A Dial that Dances: The Architecture of Light
The luminous sunray gold dial is the watch's defining feature. It is accented by six concentric rings, a geometric nod to the original 1955 design which symbolized the sixth year of the People’s Republic. These rings create a sophisticated depth, causing light to break and ripple across the surface as you rotate your wrist.
Crowning the dial at 12 o'clock is a solid 18K gold logo shaped like the Chinese characters for "Shanghai" (上海). It acts as a "golden hallmark," elevating the piece from a mere reissue to a legitimate collectible heirloom. The distinctive red-dotted seconds hand provides a sharp, rhythmic contrast to the golden landscape, echoing the spirit of the National Day celebration.
Technical Refinement: The STS Heart
Under the hood, Shanghai has opted for the Caliber 2130, a high-beat automatic movement operating at 28,800 vph. While some purists may clamor for a completely in-house manufacture movement, the 2130 is a proven workhorse with 28 jewels and a 42-hour power reserve, offering a level of reliability that matches the watch's "daily driver" potential.
The 39mm case is executed in 316L stainless steel with a svelte thickness of 10.95mm, allowing it to slide effortlessly under a bespoke shirt cuff. The inclusion of a moonphase complication at 6 o'clock—featuring a luminous 18K gold moon—adds a poetic, "Quiet Luxury" layer to the otherwise tactical history of the brand.
The Integrated Dilemma: Form vs. Versatility
One of the most modern touches is the integrated gold-tone bracelet, which creates a seamless, fluid profile from lug to clasp. In a brilliant move for the modern collector, Shanghai includes a quick-release system and additional black leather/canvas straps.
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