Nectere Eclipse Watch: Capturing a Celestial Moment in Gold

Nectere Eclipse: A Celestial Celebration in Watch Design

While many watch brands draw inspiration from motorsport, diving, or aviation, Hong Kong-based microbrand Nectere looks to the skies. With the launch of The Eclipse, Nectere captures the awe-inspiring moment of a total solar eclipse in a limited edition mechanical timepiece. The watch debuts on 12 August 2026, coinciding with the next total solar eclipse visible over parts of Europe.

Design Language: Asymmetry Meets Elegance

Fans of Nectere's first collection, Order From Chaos, will instantly recognize the distinctive asymmetrical case. The Eclipse refines this design with a luxurious PVD gold finish while retaining the compact proportions that made the original models stand out. At 38mm in diameter, 40.5mm lug-to-lug, and just 8.5mm thick, this watch offers surprising wearability despite its unconventional shape. The stepped case architecture creates ever-changing reflections, and the polished gold finish gives it a more premium presence than its steel predecessors.

The Dial: A Study in Light and Shadow

The dial is the true centerpiece. Nectere describes it as depicting the exact moment when light vanishes behind the moon during an eclipse. A deep black sunburst center radiates beneath a domed sapphire crystal, interrupted by an offset sub-dial with concentric machining. Surrounding this is a sharply grooved outer ring that adds texture and depth. The result is a dial that transforms with the light, rewarding close inspection without feeling cluttered.

Movement: Manual Wind Simplicity

Powering The Eclipse is the ultra-thin Seagull ST17 manual wind movement. This calibre keeps the case exceptionally slim while offering the tactile pleasure of winding the watch each morning. Instead of a full exhibition case back, Nectere opts for a semi-open design that offers a glimpse of the movement while preserving the watch's asymmetrical aesthetic—a thoughtful compromise that highlights the architecture rather than exposing every component.

Limited Edition: Just 100 Pieces Worldwide

Exclusivity is key. The Eclipse is limited to 100 individually numbered watches globally, making it rarer than many microbrand limited editions. Each case back carries its unique production number, reinforcing the watch's collectability. The watch comes on a finely woven PVD gold mesh bracelet with quick-release spring bars, and an additional black leather strap is included for a more understated look.

Pricing and Availability

The Eclipse launches on 12 August 2026 with a retail price of £650 (excluding VAT and duties). For a limited edition mechanical watch offering original design rather than another homage, it's an intriguing proposition for collectors seeking something different.

Specifications at a Glance

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

Final Thoughts

Microbrands are increasingly confident in pushing beyond traditional watch design, and Nectere stands out as 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 won't appeal to those seeking conventional styling, but that's exactly the point. For collectors who appreciate independent design and enjoy wearing something that sparks conversation, The Eclipse offers an imaginative alternative to the crowded field of integrated bracelet sports watches. With only 100 pieces available worldwide, they are unlikely to linger long.