Horology Planet Exhibition Series — 03
In October 2026, Beijing becomes a meeting point for Chinese imperial aesthetics, traditional craftsmanship, and contemporary design. Held at the National Foreign Cultural Trade Base (Beijing), the “Forbidden City Divine Craft” Chinese Imperial Aesthetics & Contemporary Creation Exhibition and the “Horology Planet” International Creative Exhibition bring together a range of creative works that explore the connections between Eastern cultural heritage and modern craftsmanship.
The exhibition is about more than the objects on display. It also asks how traditional art forms can continue to evolve, finding new relevance through modern materials, innovative design, and precision engineering. From decorative techniques rooted in imperial workshops to the intricacies of independent watchmaking, the works on show offer different perspectives on how the past can inform the present.
As part of this exhibition series, Horology Planet takes a closer look at the participating watch brands and the ideas behind their creations. We begin with DALKOMM, a brand that draws on Chinese cultural traditions while exploring new possibilities in mechanical watch design.
FARASUTE: Independent Design, Rooted in Watchmaking Tradition
FARASUTE was founded on a simple belief: a great watch does more than tell time. It expresses the character, values, and individuality of the person who wears it.
In a market increasingly shaped by mass production and familiar design formulas, FARASUTE takes an independent approach to watch creation. Each timepiece begins with an original concept, with attention extending from the architecture of the case and movement to the smallest details of the dial. The brand combines traditional watchmaking principles with a contemporary design sensibility, seeking to create watches that stand apart without losing sight of their mechanical foundations.
Three principles guide this philosophy: independent design, precision engineering, and accessible excellence. FARASUTE develops its own design concepts, works with specialized manufacturers to achieve precise component tolerances, and tests and regulates movements before assembly. By selling directly to customers, the brand also seeks to reduce traditional retail markups and offer carefully finished timepieces at more accessible prices.
This combination of technical ambition and thoughtful design finds a clear expression in the FARASUTE 5318K Monopusher Chronograph. With its manually wound movement, silver-toned dial, blued hands, and single-button chronograph mechanism, the watch looks to the traditions of mechanical horology while establishing an identity of its own.
FARASUTE 5318K Monopusher Chronograph
The chronograph occupies a special place in mechanical watchmaking. More than a way to display the time, it allows the wearer to measure elapsed intervals through a mechanism that transforms precision engineering into something tangible and engaging. The FARASUTE 5318K explores this tradition through one of the most distinctive chronograph configurations: the monopusher.
Unlike conventional chronographs that use separate pushers for different timing operations, a monopusher chronograph integrates the start, stop, and reset functions into a single control, operating in a defined sequence. This approach has deep roots in the history of chronograph development, offering a streamlined alternative to multi-pusher designs while preserving the mechanical character of traditional timing instruments.
The 5318K brings this mechanism into a classically styled wristwatch. FARASUTE presents it as China's first monopusher chronograph, positioning the model as a distinctive contribution to Chinese mechanical watchmaking. Its appeal lies not only in the complication itself, but also in the way the mechanism is paired with restrained proportions and familiar horological details.
At its heart is the SW510M hand-wound mechanical movement. Manual winding adds a personal dimension to ownership, inviting the wearer to engage directly with the watch's mechanical life rather than treating it as a purely functional accessory. Each winding becomes part of the daily ritual, reinforcing the connection between the wearer and the movement.
The 40 mm case is crafted from 316L stainless steel, offering a versatile size and a timeless rounded silhouette. Measuring 47.5 mm from lug to lug, the watch maintains balanced proportions, while its sapphire crystal provides scratch resistance for everyday use. The case measures 13.1 mm thick, or 11.7 mm excluding the crystal.
The silver dial brings together several elements of classical watch design. Fine texturing creates a subtle play of light across the surface, while black Roman numerals establish a clear, traditional visual language. Blued steel hands introduce a vivid accent against the silver background, adding color without disturbing the overall restraint of the composition.
Two recessed subdials create depth and visual balance, complemented by an outer timing scale that reinforces the watch's chronograph identity. A brown leather strap completes the design, introducing warmth and a tactile contrast to the cool finish of the steel case.
Limited production further distinguishes the model. The 5318K is presented as a handcrafted collectible, with the first batch comprising just 10 pieces and a stated overall edition of 50 pieces. For collectors drawn to uncommon mechanical configurations, its single-button operation and traditional hand-wound movement offer a compelling alternative to more familiar chronograph designs.
The FARASUTE 5318K is ultimately a study in balance: historical inspiration and modern engineering, technical complexity and visual restraint, mechanical engagement and everyday wearability. Through this combination, the watch reflects the enduring appeal of traditional watchmaking while contributing to a broader conversation about the future of Chinese independent design.
Key Specifications
- Model: FARASUTE 5318K Monopusher Chronograph
- Watch Type: Manual-winding mechanical chronograph
- Movement: SW510M hand-wound mechanical movement
- Case Material: 316L stainless steel
- Case Diameter: 40 mm
- Case Thickness: 13.1 mm (11.7 mm excluding the crystal)
- Lug-to-Lug: 47.5 mm
- Crystal: Sapphire crystal
- Strap Material: Brown leather
- Strap Width: 20 mm
- Water Resistance: 3 ATM / 30 metres
- Functions: Hours, minutes, small seconds, and monopusher chronograph
- Limited Edition: 50 pieces
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Exhibition Guide
- Exhibition Name: “Forbidden City Divine Craft” Chinese Imperial Aesthetics & Contemporary Creation Exhibition, and the “Horology Planet” International Creative Exhibition
- Opening Date: October 23, 2026
- Exhibition Dates: October 23, 2026 – December 16, 2026
- Venue: 3rd Floor Art Space, Building D7, National Foreign Cultural Trade Base (Beijing), No. 3 Jinhang East Road, Shunyi District, Beijing
- Organizer: National Foreign Cultural Trade Base (Beijing)
- Academic Support: Research Group on Qing Dynasty Court Craftsmanship Inheritance Examples, The Palace Museum; Watchina
- Executive Curator: Horology Planet
