Atelier Wen Perception

Perception draws from the exquisite geometries found in traditional Chinese architecture. It features an exquisite hand-turned dial by China’s first master of the craft, Cheng Yu Cai, alongside a custom extra-thin automatic movement. These are elegantly encased within a 904L steel case, with accompanying bracelet, that have been finished with immense attention to detail. It bears a striking contrast between the slimness of its case and the depth of the guilloché dial which defies physical perceptions.

About the brand

Atelier Wen is a distinctive micro‑watch brand founded in 2018 by French friends Robin Tallendier and Wilfried Buiron, united by their deep passion for Chinese culture and horology. Inspired by their time studying and working in China, they set out to challenge perceptions of Chinese craftsmanship by creating elegant mechanical watches that celebrate China’s artistic legacy with modern flair.

Their first release, the Porcelain Odyssey, featured 39 mm steel cases with porcelain dials adorned by subtle Chinese motifs like the hui wen pattern and Eight Trigrams, powered by a customized Dandong SL‑3006 automatic movement.

 

The brand’s breakthrough came with the Perception series—40 mm integrated‑bracelet sports watches with ultra‑thin 9.4 mm cases made of 904L steel and equipped with a slim Dandong SL1588 movement. The signature element is the guilloché dial, hand‑engineered by self‑taught Master Cheng, whose rose‑engine work can take eight hours per dial and features intricate “Sunmao” patterns.

Check them out at https://atelierwen.com/