In the long journey of human history, culture has always been a powerful thread that weaves through time. The white ceramic dial, with its centuries of accumulated craftsmanship, now shines with renewed brilliance. On January 10, 2015, the renowned Chinese avant-garde watch brand Zhang Dao held a press conference in Beijing to unveil the final collection before its 2015 Baselworld trip — the "Oracle - Silk Road" series. This collection was inspired by the ancient Chinese inscriptions "Oracle" and the legendary Silk Road, blending traditional Chinese artistry with modern design. Zhang Dao collaborated with master artisans from Luoyang San Cai, combining heritage techniques with contemporary aesthetics to create a unique fusion of East and West. This groundbreaking collection made its global debut at Baselworld, the world's most prestigious watch fair, marking a significant milestone for Chinese watchmaking on the international stage.
The Oracle script, first unearthed in Xiaotun Village, Anyang, Henan Province, represents the earliest known form of Chinese writing. It is not only a treasure of linguistic history but also a symbol of China’s cultural depth. During the Shang Dynasty, the Oracle was not just a means of communication but also played a role in timekeeping. According to historical records, the Yin Dynasty used a system of branch-based time measurement, a method still used today. The division of the day into segments such as "Ming," "Da Yin," and "Xiao Yin" reflects an advanced understanding of time, demonstrating how deeply rooted timekeeping was in ancient Chinese civilization.
Zhang Dao's "Oracle - Silk Road" series reinterprets this rich heritage by incorporating Oracle characters into the watch face. This marks the first time the Oracle script has been used as a clock scale, bridging ancient traditions with modern horology. At Baselworld 2015, the event drew global attention, showcasing not only the technical excellence of Chinese watchmakers but also the deep cultural significance behind each piece. The brand invited experts from the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences, including Zhao Yiman and Cao Dingyun, to help translate and interpret Oracle inscriptions, ensuring historical accuracy while bringing new life to ancient symbols.
In addition to the Oracle theme, Zhang Dao also introduced the zodiac as a hand-painted dial design, drawing on the traditional Chinese concept of the twelve branches. This connection between time and destiny is deeply embedded in Chinese culture, reflecting a long-standing relationship between astronomy and timekeeping. Ancient Chinese astronomers made remarkable achievements during the Spring and Autumn and Warring States periods, developing early coordinate systems that predated similar European advancements by centuries. These innovations laid the foundation for modern timekeeping and continue to influence the way we measure time today.
The "Silk Road" series also highlights the art of Luoyang San Cai, a traditional Chinese ceramic technique with roots dating back to the Northern and Southern Dynasties. Master Guo Ai, a leading figure in the preservation of this art, worked alongside Zhang Dao to bring the vibrant glazes and intricate patterns of San Cai to the ceramic dials. This collaboration not only honored the past but also pushed the boundaries of contemporary watch design, creating pieces that are both historically significant and visually stunning.
At the press conference, Zhang Dao was joined by representatives from the China Watch Association, industry experts, and cultural figures who shared their insights on the importance of integrating Chinese elements into modern watchmaking. The event emphasized the brand's mission to preserve and promote Chinese heritage while pushing the boundaries of innovation. With its unique blend of tradition and technology, Zhang Dao is setting a new standard for Chinese luxury watches on the global stage.
This collection is more than just a tribute to the past — it is a bold statement about the future of Chinese craftsmanship. By bringing the Oracle, the Silk Road, and San Cai together, Zhang Dao is not only celebrating Chinese culture but also inspiring a new generation of watchmakers and enthusiasts around the world. As the brand prepares to showcase its creations at Baselworld, the world is watching — ready to witness the next chapter in the story of Chinese timekeeping.
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