Arnold & Son continues its tradition of merging exquisite artistry with horological mastery, unveiling the Perpetual Moon 41.5 “Year of the Snake” to mark the Chinese zodiac’s Year of the Wooden Snake in 2025. This limited-edition timepiece, with only eight pieces crafted, showcases the brand’s commitment to storytelling through intricate craftsmanship and technical excellence.
The Perpetual Moon 41.5 captures the essence of the Wooden Snake’s attributes—perspicacity, intelligence, and prudence—through a stunning design that blends symbolic elements with functional precision. Its dial, a masterpiece in itself, features an 18-carat red gold snake, hand-engraved in mesmerizing detail, coiled around a Ginkgo biloba branch. The serene setting is framed by a deep blue aventurine glass dial, evoking the mysteries of a starry night. This serene yet powerful imagery resonates with the transformative energy and introspection symbolized by the snake in Chinese astrology.
At the heart of this celestial display is Arnold & Son’s signature astronomical moonphase complication. A luminous mother-of-pearl moon dominates the dial, its shadows rendered with artistic precision and overlaid with Super-LumiNova for a captivating glow. Surrounding it are luminescent constellations—Ursa Major and Cassiopeia—paying homage to the brand’s founder, John Arnold, and his legacy as a pioneer of marine chronometers. These guiding stars not only evoke the navigational history of horology but also tie seamlessly into the zodiac’s celestial symbolism.
On the reverse, the case back reveals a secondary moonphase indicator for quick and precise adjustments. Driving this horological marvel is the A&S1512 calibre, a manually-wound movement developed and manufactured entirely in-house at La Chaux-de-Fonds. Boasting an extraordinary moonphase accuracy—requiring 122 years of constant operation to deviate by a single day—the movement also offers a robust 90-hour power reserve, courtesy of its dual barrels. The calibre operates at a frequency of 3 Hz, ensuring reliability and precision.
With its impeccable blend of artistry and engineering, the Perpetual Moon 41.5 “Year of the Snake” is not just a watch but a cultural celebration and a collector’s dream. Its intricate detailing, symbolic depth, and technical prowess reflect Arnold & Son’s unwavering dedication to creating timepieces that transcend mere functionality.
For enthusiasts and collectors alike, this limited-edition timepiece serves as both a tribute to Chinese traditions and a testament to Arnold & Son’s ability to weave heritage and innovation into a singular, breathtaking creation.