Christiaan van der Klaauw Unveils the Planetarium “Julie” – Celestial Artistry and Personal Devotion
Christiaan van der Klaauw Astronomical Watches proudly presents its latest haute horlogerie masterpiece — the Planetarium “Julie.” This extraordinary timepiece represents the ultimate expression of personalization and craftsmanship. Plus, it was created in close collaboration with a passionate collector and long-time friend of the brand.
From the outset, the vision was clear. To craft a watch unlike any other, one that would serve as both a technical triumph and a heartfelt tribute to the collector’s young daughter, Julie. Under the creative direction of CEO and Master Watchmaker Pim Koeslag, this vision has been transformed into a singular creation. Hence, a bespoke work of art that exemplifies the essence of Christiaan van der Klaauw’s horological philosophy.
At its core, the Planetarium “Julie” houses the world’s smallest mechanical planetarium. A signature complication that displays the real-time orbits of Mercury, Venus, Earth, Mars, Jupiter, and Saturn around the Sun. This poetic interpretation of the cosmos celebrates the harmony between astronomy and mechanical precision. As a result, a hallmark of the Dutch maison since its founding in 1974.
For this unique commission, the Planetarium module has been entirely redesigned and skeletonized to reflect the chosen aesthetic. The bridges and main plate have been reimagined to echo the brand’s iconic sun emblem with twelve claws. Thus, requiring an extensive reengineering of the movement architecture.
Each bridge has been meticulously open worked by hand. For example, it features an exceptional 70 inward angles, an achievement that demonstrates the highest echelon of traditional hand-finishing. The Hindu-Arabic numerals, delicately applied on a transparent sapphire crystal dial. It reveals the mesmerizing depth of the skeletonized construction beneath.
Adding to its emotional resonance, the barrel is engraved by renowned Master Engraver Kees Engelbarts. He hand-sculpted the profile of Julie in a mirrored double portrait, ensuring her presence remains visible as the barrel rotates. Therefore, an intimate and poetic detail at the heart of the watch.
The CKM-01 movement has been entirely customized, with skeletonized bridges and hand-beveled edges encased in titanium. Its bezel, crafted from solid meteorite, connects this earthly creation to the vastness of the universe. Formed over 4.6 billion years ago, the meteorite material displays a naturally occurring Widmanstätten pattern. As a result, it’s structure found only in celestial iron, making every watch uniquely distinct. The case back is engraved “PIECE UNIQUE,” confirming its singular nature.
Inside, the Planetarium “Julie” is powered by a refined Swiss manufacture movement, featuring:
- Uni-directional automatic winding with a 60-hour power reserve
- Free-sprung hairspring with variable-inertia balance wheel
- 32 jewels, operating at 21,600 vibrations per hour (3Hz)
- Swiss lever escapement with jeweled bearings
- Hand-finished, star-shaped bridges — skeletonized, sandblasted, beveled, and rhodium-plated
- Skeletonized rose gold-plated brass rotor in the form of the CVDK sun logo, with rhodium-plated tungsten weight for enhanced efficiency
A Unique Piece
A one-of-one creation, the Planetarium “Julie” is not merely a watch. Tt is a convergence of astronomy, art, and emotion. Therefore, it embodies the spirit of collaboration between collector and creator. Plus, it stands as a testament to the boundless possibilities of bespoke haute horlogerie.
For over five decades, Christiaan van der Klaauw Astronomical Watches has redefined the art of astronomical timekeeping, blending innovation with timeless craftsmanship. The Planetarium “Julie” continues this legacy. Hence, it offers a rare glimpse into a universe where imagination and precision coexist in perfect harmony.
Skeletonized rose gold-plated brass rotor in the form of the CVDK sun logo, with rhodium-plated tungsten weight for enhanced efficiency.
About Christiaan van der Klaauw
For over five decades, Christiaan van der Klaauw Astronomical Watches has redefined the art of astronomical timekeeping, blending innovation with timeless craftsmanship. The Planetarium “Julie” continues this legacy, offering a rare glimpse into a universe where imagination and precision coexist in perfect harmony.
Photos: Christiaan van der Klaauw
