CIGA Design, a brand renowned for its imaginative watch creations, has once again pushed the boundaries of horology with its latest offering: the Everest China 65th Anniversary timepiece. This remarkable watch not only showcases the brand's pioneering spirit but also pays homage to a pivotal moment in the history of Chinese mountaineering. By integrating its inaugural automaton feature, CIGA Design transforms a historical narrative into a dynamic and interactive display on the wrist, solidifying its reputation for unique and award-winning designs.
The new Everest China 65th Anniversary watch draws its inspiration from the historic 1960 Chinese expedition to Mount Everest. During this challenging ascent, mountaineer Liu Lianman demonstrated an extraordinary act of selflessness, forming a 'human ladder' to enable his teammates to overcome the formidable Second Step on the North Ridge. This heroic deed, crucial to the expedition's success, is meticulously reenacted by the watch's automaton mechanism. Each timepiece thus becomes a miniature theater, playing out a significant chapter in human endeavor and perseverance.
Beyond its storytelling capabilities, the watch boasts impressive specifications. It is housed in a robust 45mm Grade 5 titanium case, sharing its core dimensions with previous Everest editions, though slightly thicker at 13.6mm to accommodate the intricate automaton. A 6mm crown and 50-meter water resistance ensure its durability and functionality. The dial itself is a work of art, meticulously carved from genuine Mount Everest bedrock. This natural material undergoes a rigorous process of cutting, laser shaping, and CNC engraving, taking 30 days to perfect. The result is a unique dial for each watch, with its natural grain highlighted, ensuring no two pieces are exactly alike. The time is indicated by distinctive ice-axe-shaped hands, with the minute hand featuring a red tip, both treated with Super-LumiNova for visibility in low-light conditions, complementing the illuminated Everest logo.
The heart of this commemorative watch is the in-house developed CD-10 caliber, which powers both the timekeeping functions and the captivating automaton. Operating at 21,600 vibrations per hour and offering a 42-hour power reserve, this movement is a testament to CIGA Design's technical prowess. A sapphire display on the case back allows owners to admire the intricate mechanics of the caliber. Furthermore, the case back features an engraved quote from Liu Lianman himself: 'No matter how hard it is, keep going! Step on my shoulders!' — a powerful reminder of the sacrifice and determination that defined the 1960 ascent.
The narrative continues with the watch's fluororubber strap, which is more than just a functional component. The underside is embossed with the historic climbing route, subtly incorporating another layer of the Everest story. The outer surface proudly displays the 65th-anniversary emblem, marking the significance of this special edition. This thoughtful integration of design elements ensures that every aspect of the watch contributes to its compelling story. The timepiece's journey came full circle when, 65 years after the original event, a mountaineer and long-time associate of CIGA Design wore the Everest China 65th Anniversary watch to the summit of Mount Everest via the North Ridge, symbolizing the enduring spirit of exploration and achievement.
The CIGA Design Everest China 65th Anniversary watch, priced at US$1,699 and presented in the brand's characteristic booklet-style packaging, stands as a profound celebration of human courage and horological artistry. Its intricate design, historical narrative, and pioneering automaton movement make it a significant addition to the Everest series, continuing CIGA Design's tradition of innovation and exceptional storytelling.
