he 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.

A standout feature in the LAB Series 1.24 is again the ultra-thin structural design of the 3D-printed case. This time, however, the Holthinrichs specialty patina dial is embellished with 24-carat leaf gold, applied by Chris Alexander, a.k.a. The Dial Artist.

A spontaneous encounter between Holthinrichs and Chris Alexander sparked this fruitful collaboration between creative minds. Chris’ background in the arts and the world of theatre aligns seamlessly with Holthinrichs’ vision of artistry in horology. His craftsmanship brought an added refinement to the watch, elegantly capturing the history and romance of Holthinrichs’ heritage.

The creation of this dial follows a complex artistic process: it begins in Delft, travels to Scotland, and finishes back in Delft. The double-domed dial is first milled from a solid slice of brass. The blank is then carved to achieve its strong texture and brought to its distinctive aesthetic through a multi-stage forced patina process using electrolysis and heat treatment. This forms a robust copper oxide layer that results in a unique, deep, natural colour effect.

After this, the dial is shipped to Chris’ atelier in Scotland, where he hand-applies the leaf gold using a refined adhesion process. Each gold layer is unique—just like the patina—making every dial one of a kind.

Finally, the dial is returned to Delft for assembly into the designated timepiece.

The LAB Series 1.24 dial is a striking example of Holthinrichs’ concept of Horlogerie Brut, where natural materials and textures—directly derived from their processing—are used in the design for their intrinsic beauty. The combination of green copper oxide and gold leaf directly references the armoury building, where similar colours were used in the interior woodwork and coats of arms of the States of Holland.

LAB Series 1.24 launches on the 24th of August at 14:00 (CEST), limited to 79 pieces — a nod to gold (Au), atomic number 79 on the periodic table.

TECHNICAL 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 ● Price: €5,900 (ex. VAT, including international shipping)