Artisans de Genève Gives a Rolex Daytona a “Warm Burgundy” Makeover

After reimagining a Patek Philippe Nautilus in an icy palette, Artisans de Genève now unveils a warmer-tone customized timepiece.

Aptly named “Warm Burgundy,” the latest project instills a regal mood to a Rolex Daytona while breathing new life into the watch with a new material: tantalum. While tantalum is known for its high-density structure and impressive resistance against corrosion, it’s also renowned for being incredibly different to work. Upon the client’s request, the independent watchmaking workshop accepted the challenge. The resulting wristwatch serves as a testament to Artisans de Genève’s artisanal craftsmanship and adaptability.

The dial and bezel have been completely redesigned in a smoked burgundy hue — a color so specific that the workshop underwent 52 revisions before it was finalized. Offering a striking yet mesmerizing contrast with the dial plate, the subdials are lacquered and varnished in a sky blue color, accompanied by white gold indices and a handset. The lume on the hands also comes in the same sky blue hue to tie in with the overall color scheme.

Synonymous with Artisans de Genève’s previous projects, the watch’s original movement has also been reworked. The caliber now features a half-openworked design to better showcase its alluring decorations and inner workings. In line with the watch’s palette, the bridges have been beveled, decorated and circled by hand prior to undergoing a tantalum-coloured anthracite treatment.

Take a closer look at “Warm Burgundy” in the gallery above. To read more about the project’s process and story, head over to Artisans de Genève’s website.