The limited release Arsène Lippens Artigiano collection returns with dials cut from a different cloth
Tom Austin- The Artigiano from Arsène Lippens returns for the brand’s third 2026 release, available in a strictly limited run of just 50 pieces worldwide.
- The collection showcases textile dials crafted from authentic fabrics sourced from Italy’s Lake Como region, ensuring no two dials are exactly alike.
- The Artigiano collection maintains a refined profile with its 37.5mm-wide, 9.9mm-thick stainless steel case.
Watch dials have been made from just about everything over the years. Stone, wood, carbon fibre, and even the occasional slice of processed coffee have all found their way onto wrists. Textile remains a far less common choice; however, it’s a material that has become central to Arsène Lippens’ latest Artigiano collection. The Geneva-based independent brand is now reopening orders for the Artigiano, the watch that first introduced its distinctive blend of Swiss watchmaking and Italian textile craftsmanship with the Tessuti collection in 2025. While the Classico collection released earlier this year showed Arsène Lippens is capable of expanding beyond fabric-based designs, the Artigiano remains one of its most recognisable offerings, returning with the three references inspired by different regions of Italy: Como, Chianti and Portofino.
Using authentic textiles sourced from the Lake Como region, each watch places material and texture at the centre of the experience. The result is a collection that appears noticeably different from the painted, stamped, and textured dials that dominate much of the enthusiast market, while still retaining the humble proportions and straightforward, manually wound characteristics showcased in previous Arsène Lippens releases.
The Artigiano’s 316L stainless steel case measures 37.5mm in diameter, has a 45.5mm lug-to-lug, and sits at 9.9mm thick, including its box-domed sapphire crystal. Those dimensions place it firmly within dress-watch territory, though the broad dial opening and gently curved lugs help it maintain a contemporary look while on the wrist. A double-stepped bezel adds a little visual interest without becoming overly prominent, while the predominantly brushed finish gives the watch a relatively minimalist appearance while remaining suitable for everyday use. Water resistance is rated to 50 metres, and the simplistic closed caseback features a combination of circular satin, polished and sandblasted finishes.
The fabric dials are naturally the focal point of the collection, spread across three references. Firstly, the Como reference uses blue denim sourced from the Lake Como region, finished in a dark navy blue that is said to represent the water of Lake Como itself. The Chianti takes a more rustic approach, using a cotton-bamboo blend that combines burgundy, brown, grey and beige tones reminiscent of the Tuscan countryside. Completing the trio is the Portofino, whose turquoise-green dial draws inspiration from the waters of the Ligurian coastline. While each dial takes its cues from a different location, the underlying appeal remains the same: because the textiles themselves are real, every watch will show slight variations in weave, texture, and colour.
The minimalistic approach continues throughout the dials, lacking any hour markers or minute tracks, simply placing the brand name across the top, and Swiss Made sitting proudly at six. Considering there’s not much going on in terms of dial details, the dauphine hands are particularly eye-catching, featuring linear brushing on the top surface and highly polished bevels that show there’s still some attention to detail where it’s needed.
Powering the Artigiano is the hand-wound Sellita SW210-1. The Swiss calibre delivers a 48-hour power reserve when fully wound, beats at 28,800 Vph, and displays only the hours and minutes, keeping things simple and uncluttered. It’s a movement that has become a familiar sight among independent brands thanks to its reliability and relatively slim architecture, making it a sensible fit for a watch that prioritises compact dimensions and everyday wearability. The decision to use a manually wound movement also feels appropriate given the Artigiano’s more traditional, craft-focused character.
Each reference is paired with an Alcantara leather strap chosen to complement the tones of its respective dial. The Como receives a deep blue strap, the Chianti is matched with a rich brown option, while the Portofino comes fitted with a light grey alternative. Combined with the compact case dimensions and lightweight hand-wound movement, the package looks well judged for comfortable daily wear. Straight, quick-release spring bars and classic drilled lugs also make strap changes straightforward for those who want to experiment with different combinations.
There’s something slightly refreshing about a watch that doesn’t rely on the styles of a vintage reference, repetitive dive watch blueprint, or integrated-bracelet sports watch formula to make its case. The Artigiano’s appeal ultimately comes down to whether the idea of a textile dial resonates with you, but as watchmaking continues to explore ever more unusual materials, Arsène Lippens has found its own distinctive corner of that conversation. It’s a watch that represents genuine craftsmanship while remaining a strong value proposition, and it’s unlikely to be mistaken for anything else right now, which is becoming increasingly difficult in modern watchmaking.
Arsène Lippens Artigiano Ref 0599 Textile collection pricing and availability
The Arsène Lippens Artigiano Ref 0599 Textile collection is limited to 50 pieces worldwide, and is available from the Arsène Lippens online boutique between June 22nd and June 28th. Price: CHF1,095 + tax
| Brand | Arsène Lippens |
| Model | Artigiano Ref 0599 Textile Collection |
| Reference | Ref 0599-C – Como Ref 0599-CH – Chianti Ref 0599-P – Portofino |
| Case Dimensions | 37.5mm (D) x 9.9mm (T) x 45.5mm (LTL) |
| Case Material | 316L stainless steel |
| Water Resistance | 50 metres |
| Crystal(s) | Sapphire front |
| Dial | Italian textile, denim blue, tweed, turquoise green cotton and bamboo |
| Lug Width | 20mm |
| Strap | Alcantara leather, pin buckle |
| Movement | Sellita SW210-1b, manually wound |
| Power Reserve | 48 hours |
| Functions | Hours, minutes |
| Availability | Limited to 50 pieces worldwide |
| Price | CHF1,095 + tax |