Nectere Eclipse Brings A Celestial Twist To Watch Design
Some watches take inspiration from racing, diving or aviation. Others look a little further afield. Hong Kong microbrand Nectere has turned its attention to one of nature's most captivating spectacles with the launch of The Eclipse, a limited edition mechanical watch inspired by the fleeting moment of a total solar eclipse.
Launching on 12 August 2026, the same day as the next total solar eclipse visible across parts of Europe, The Eclipse continues Nectere's philosophy of blending art, philosophy and unconventional watchmaking into wearable sculptures rather than simply functional timepieces.
Designed Around The Moment Of Totality
If you're familiar with Nectere's debut Order From Chaos collection, you'll immediately recognise the distinctive asymmetrical case. The Eclipse evolves that design language with a luxurious PVD gold finish while keeping the same compact proportions that made the original models stand out.
At 38mm wide, 40.5mm lug to lug and just 8.5mm thick, this is a surprisingly wearable watch despite its unconventional shape. The stepped architecture creates constantly changing reflections, while the polished gold finish gives the watch an altogether more premium appearance than its steel predecessors.
The real talking point, however, is the dial.
Nectere describes it as capturing the exact moment when light disappears behind the moon during a total eclipse. A rich black sunburst centre radiates beneath the domed sapphire crystal before being interrupted by an offset sub dial with concentric machining. Surrounding this is a sharply grooved outer section that adds another layer of texture and depth.
The result is a dial that changes dramatically depending on the light, rewarding close inspection without becoming overly busy.
Manual Wind Simplicity
Powering The Eclipse is the ultra thin Seagull ST17 manual wind movement, a calibre that helps keep the case exceptionally slim while offering the tactile pleasure of winding the watch each morning.
Rather than opting for a full exhibition back, Nectere has fitted a semi open case back that offers a glimpse of the movement while maintaining the watch's distinctive asymmetrical design. It's a thoughtful compromise that keeps the focus on the architecture rather than simply exposing every component.
Limited To Just 100 Pieces
Exclusivity is very much part of the appeal.
The Eclipse will be limited to 100 individually numbered watches worldwide, making it considerably rarer than many limited edition microbrand releases. Each case back carries its individual production number, reinforcing the collectable nature of the piece.
The watch comes fitted to a finely woven PVD gold mesh bracelet with quick release spring bars, while an additional black leather strap is included in the box for a more understated look.
Price And Availability
The Eclipse officially launches on 12 August 2026 with a retail price of £650 before VAT and import duties.
For a limited edition mechanical watch offering genuinely original design rather than another homage, it represents an intriguing proposition for collectors looking for something different.
Specifications
Model: Nectere The Eclipse
Case: PVD Gold Stainless Steel
Dimensions: 38mm × 40.5mm
Thickness: 8.5mm
Crystal: Domed Sapphire Crystal
Case Back: Semi open K1 crystal display
Movement: Seagull ST17 Manual Wind
Water Resistance: 30 metres
Bracelet: PVD Gold Mesh Bracelet
Additional Strap: Black Leather with Quick Release
Limited Edition: 100 pieces
Price: Approximately £650 (excluding VAT and duties)
Launch Date: 12 August 2026
Winding Things Up
Microbrands have become increasingly confident in pushing beyond traditional watch design, and Nectere is one of the more interesting examples. Rather than borrowing cues from famous sports watches, The Eclipse leans heavily into artistic expression while remaining surprisingly practical thanks to its slim dimensions and wearable size.
It certainly won't appeal to those after conventional styling, but that's precisely the point. For collectors who appreciate independent design and enjoy wearing something guaranteed to spark conversation, The Eclipse offers an imaginative alternative to the increasingly crowded field of integrated bracelet sports watches. With only 100 pieces available worldwide, we wouldn't expect them to hang around for long.
