SIGNATURE ORNAMENT LAB Series 1.24 – Dial in Collaboration with The Dial Artist

Holthinrichs Watches introduces the SIGNATURE ORNAMENT – LAB Series 1.24 in collaboration with The Dial Artist.

The SIGNATURE ORNAMENT series embodies Holthinrichs’ expressive and instinctively recognizable sculptural design language, inspired by Art Nouveau architecture and classic car design. The LAB Series is a special branch within the model line that represents the brand’s laboratory of innovation and far-reaching experimental extravagance.

Following a successful first series (LAB Series 1, introduced in May 2024), Holthinrichs now introduces a second iteration, connecting its experimental mindset to its new and inspiring atelier location: the former national armoury building of the Netherlands, situated in the historical city centre of Delft.

The Dial Artist

After graduating with a Master’s in Design from Gray’s School of Art in Scotland, Chris Alexander founded The Dial Artist in 2017. With over 20 years of experience in the creative industries, Chris spent years experimenting with paints, lacquers, and techniques, perfecting his skills. He has established himself in the global watch community with abstract dials that feature bursts of colour. Using the dial as a canvas, his highly sought-after work blurs the line between contemporary art and horology—creating art that moves you, and moves with you.

LAB Series – 3D-Printed Case

The LAB Series features a titanium case with the thinnest possible lug structures, defying conventional design logic. This is made possible by pushing the limits of 3D metal printing technology. The design focuses on ergonomics: reduced weight for greater comfort, a curved caseback to improve wrist position and stability, and pronounced curved lugs to embrace the wrist more comfortably.

The case is crafted using high-end selective laser melting, followed by precise milling and extensive hand-finishing. Each print run is limited to 45 cases per build plate, taking up to 48 hours to complete. Each case is individually aligned for machining and undergoes many hours of manual finishing. This process enables structurally bold designs and contrasting surface finishes—combining raw 3D-printed textures with hand-refined details.

Movement

For the LAB Series 1.24, a unique patinated rotor was developed to mirror the spirit of the dial within the movement. The rotor is produced in-house and features a solid patina layer derived from a proprietary acid heat treatment process—safely implemented within the delicate movement. The tungsten weight is scraped and heat-treated to achieve beautifully subtle blue and purple tones.

Specifications: SIGNATURE LAB Series 1.24

Case: 3D-printed Grade 5 titanium

Case diameter: 38.5 mm

Case thickness: 7.8 mm (excluding crystal), 9.85 mm (including domed sapphire crystal)

Lug-to-lug: 46 mm

Weight: 37.7 grams (without strap)

Dial: Handmade domed copper patina dial (by Holthinrichs) with hand-applied 24-carat gold leaf

(by The Dial Artist) and white pad-printed logo

Movement: Modified Sellita SW-300 with handmade and carved patina rotor

Strap: Cognac Rooster Leg leather, with titanium buckle and pin (20/16 mm)

Availability: Limited to 79 pieces; first deliveries expected before the end of 2025