Beijing Watch 'Impression Beijing' Review: A 2014 Limited Edition with Temple of Heaven and National Centre for the Performing Arts

The Allure of Beijing Watch's Logo

For many watch enthusiasts, the logo of Beijing Watch stands out as one of the most striking in the industry. The silhouette of Tiananmen Gate is not only a symbol of national pride but also a perfect emblem for a timepiece, exuding grandeur and elegance. It's a design that immediately captures attention and conveys a sense of heritage.

The 'Impression Beijing' Series: A 2014 Masterpiece

Released in 2014, the 'Impression Beijing' series is a set of four watches, each limited to 299 pieces. The collection showcases eight iconic buildings from Beijing—four ancient and four modern—paired in a harmonious blend of old and new. Designed by Dr. Ren Jin, an associate professor at the China University of Geosciences, these watches feature dials crafted using a unique inlaid enamel oil-pressure technique. This process creates a three-dimensional, layered effect with vibrant yet subtle colors. The seconds hand is cleverly color-matched to the enamel accents, adding a perfect finishing touch.

Why the Temple of Heaven and National Centre for the Performing Arts Dial?

Among the four dials, the combination of the Temple of Heaven and the National Centre for the Performing Arts stands out for its symmetrical composition. For lovers of traditional Chinese aesthetics, this balance is particularly appealing. The pairing of an ancient architectural marvel with a modern cultural venue creates a visual dialogue that is both thought-provoking and beautiful.

Strap and Wearability

The watch originally comes with a bright green leather strap, which might feel a bit bold for some tastes. Many owners, including myself, opt to replace it with a genuine brown alligator leather strap with a folding clasp, which complements the warm tones of the Temple of Heaven dial. The cost of this upgrade is minimal, especially when considering the overall value of the watch—a testament to the affordability of Chinese watch brands.

Movement and Performance

Powering the watch is the in-house Caliber B16ZR, offering a 42-hour power reserve and a 3Hz frequency. The movement features basic decorative finishing and a rose-gold plated rotor. It's a workhorse movement—reliable and sturdy, though not heavily decorated. For the price point, it delivers solid performance without unnecessary frills.

Design and Craftsmanship: The Good and the Not-So-Good

The dial design is undoubtedly creative, earning a 9 out of 10. However, the execution might not match the vision. The use of machine-engraved enamel and oil-pressure printing, while effective, could have been elevated with techniques like cloisonné or micro-painting. Even a mother-of-pearl inlay for the Temple of Heaven section would have added a luxurious touch. Interestingly, Beijing Watch had a full mother-of-pearl dial concept in the works, but it never materialized—a missed opportunity.

The movement finishing, while acceptable for the price, shows some inconsistency. The main plate features a pattern that is neither fully perlage nor Geneva stripes, which might disappoint purists. However, given the watch's artistic merits, these imperfections are forgivable.

Final Thoughts

Despite its minor flaws, the 'Impression Beijing' watch is a worthy addition to any collection. Its design creativity and cultural significance make it a standout piece. As a collector, you don't always need objectivity—sometimes, you just enjoy the thrill of owning something unique.