Astronomer: A Watch That Connects Time and Space

Fuqing Ye and Liyue Lai's Award-Winning Design Combines Tradition, Innovation, and Aesthetics

The Astronomer, produced by Agelocer, stands out from other watches due to its panoramic moon-phase dial. This feature enlarges the view of the moon's phases to the entire dial plate, allowing users to intuitively feel the changes of moon phases. The design was inspired by the folding and pulling of ties, leading to the creation of an infinitely adjustable clasp. This innovative feature eliminates the need for punching holes in the strap, greatly simplifying the manufacturing process.

The design of the Astronomer was realized using 3D printing technology to simulate and restore the surface of the moon. The moon-phase dial was enlarged to a diameter of 28mm, providing a striking view of the lunar phases. The strap can be disassembled and replaced without any tools, offering convenience and ease to the user. The infinitely adjustable clasp changes the way traditional mechanical watches are worn, fitting most wrists without the need for perforations.

The Astronomer was conceived and designed at the Purple Mountain Observatory in Nanjing, China. The design process began in December 2017 and was finalized in March 2018. After the production and confirmation of samples, the watch was launched in China in February 2019. The design project was a result of extensive research into the relationship between astronomical phenomena and the concept of time, with the goal of integrating the moon, stars, and watches.

Designing the Astronomer was not without its challenges. The designers had to redesign the drive mechanism to enable the watch to drive the moon-phase dial and prevent it from rotating when worn. They also had to control the size of the moon-phase dial and keep the display error within a reasonable range. After repeated testing, they were able to make the moon-phase window large enough and enlarge the moon-phase dial to the desired size.

The Astronomer's unique design and innovative features have earned it the Silver A' Jewelry, Eyewear, and Watch Design Award in 2021. This prestigious award is given to top-of-the-line, creative, and professionally remarkable designs that demonstrate outstanding expertise and innovation. The Astronomer, with its integration of astronomical phenomena, time, and mechanical movements, truly embodies these qualities.