Get ready for a watch that will leave you speechless! Artya, the innovative brand founded by Yvan Arpa, is about to shake things up once again with their latest creation. A true masterpiece, this watch is a bold statement and a testament to the brand's creativity and craftsmanship.
Artya has always been known for pushing boundaries and crafting timepieces with unique personalities. While their recent designs have been more subtle, the family-run business continues to embrace innovation. And now, in collaboration with retailer Ahmed Seddiqi, they've unveiled two extraordinary sapphire watches as part of Dubai Watch Week 2025.
One of these watches, based on the brand's AquaSaphir model, is a true game-changer. With a quadricoloured sapphire bezel representing the national colours of the United Arab Emirates, it's a sight to behold. At first glance, it may appear to be a typical dive watch with its notched bezel and 60-minute scale. But dig a little deeper, and you'll discover a whole new world of design and craftsmanship.
But here's where it gets controversial... While the AquaSaphir certainly has a sporty vibe, it's not your typical dive watch. It's more of a statement piece, a true work of art. And this is the part most people miss: it's not about diving deep; it's about making a bold fashion statement and showcasing the beauty of sapphire crystal.
Technically speaking, these UAE editions are similar to previous AquaSaphir models we've reviewed. The 41mm watch boasts a fixed sapphire bezel with a 60-minute scale and is crafted entirely from sapphire crystal, from the case middle to the crown. Powered by a reliable La Joux-Perret G100 automatic movement with a 68-hour power reserve, it features a customized gold-toned rotor and a dark theme.
What sets these editions apart is the case, bezel, and dial. The dial, made from aventurine glass, sparkles with applied markers and hands filled with SLN, and proudly displays the UAE flag and an Arabic inscription meaning "Limited Edition, Dubai Edition." The limited edition model is crafted from emerald green sapphire, a material that is extremely hard yet polished to perfection for maximum transparency.
But the real showstopper is the second version - a bold, unique piece. Five years after introducing the first Bicolour NanoSapphire case middle, Artya has taken it up a notch with a single-block bezel featuring four different colours. As a tribute to the host country of Dubai Watch Week, the colours on the bezel recreate the UAE flag. This was achieved through a NanoSapphire treatment, which altered the material at a molecular level. To enhance the effect, this version features a black sapphire crystal case middle, creating a stunning contrast with the bezel.
Worn on a sleek black rubber strap, these Artya AquaSaphir Dubai Editions are available from the brand or retailer Ahmed Seddiqi. The limited green model retails for CHF 49,900, while the one-of-a-kind quadri-colour piece is priced at CHF 79,900.
So, what do you think? Is this watch a masterpiece or a miss? We'd love to hear your thoughts in the comments! Is it the ultimate fusion of fashion and functionality, or does it miss the mark? Let's discuss!
