A touch of gold for the ceramic Chanel J12
Fergus Nash- The Chanel J12 is once more available with an 18K gold bezel and accents
- The gold details help the unisex watch lean into its feminine aspects
- It’s still a fully-specced dive watch with 200m of water resistance
Since the reintroduction of the Chanel J12 in 2019, there’s been a lot of focus given to the movement inside it. While the previous generations had used a lot of ETA movements, the modern version is powered by the Chanel Calibre 12.1 — a movement produced by the Kenissi Manufacture which is jointly owned by the Parisian brand alongside with Breitling and Tudor. Once a spotlight was shone upon Chanel movements though, a hunt began for a rare reference of J12 that was powered by an Audemars Piguet calibre. While we’re unlikely to see a return to such collaborations with Kenissi in the picture, the new Chanel J12 Calibre 12.1 is finally available again with yellow gold details.
The Chanel J12 doesn’t need much help coming across as a luxury timepiece, with the polished ceramic case having an almost liquid-gloss finish unlike any other material, however there’s something about 18K yellow gold which encapsulates a heart-warming and exciting quality. When paired with the black version, the gold induces a sense of sumptuous mystery and refined style, while the white watch feels a touch more sophisticated and dainty. With ceramic being highly scratch-resistant and the J12 bearing a dive watch silhouette, the gold accents help it play more into its feminine influences without losing any of its rugged charm.
The 38mm case is a great gender neutral option, with a 46.6mm lug-to-lug length and a reassuring weight from the ceramic. The 200m water resistance backs up its credentials as a genuine sports watch, no matter how dressy it appears. The Calibre 12.1 movement has a 4Hz beat rate for a smooth seconds sweep, and boasts a power reserve of 70 hours with automatic winding. It’s also COSC certified for chronometer accuracy, and visible through a sapphire display caseback with a golden winding rotor.
The Chanel J12 with yellow gold pricing and availability:
The new Chanel J12 with 18K yellow gold accents was announced at Watches & Wonders 2023, and will be available from Chanel’s website and authorised retailers. Price: TBA
| Brand | Chanel |
| Model | J12 Calibre 12.1 |
| Case Dimensions | 38mm x 46.6mm |
| Case Material | Ceramic and 18k gold |
| Water Resistance | 200m |
| Crystal(s) | Sapphire |
| Dial | Black or white |
| Strap | Ceramic bracelet |
| Movement | Calibre 12.1 |
| Power Reserve | 70 hours |
| Availability | Will be available from Chanel’s website and authorised retailers. |
| Price | TBA |