The new Toledano & Chan B/1.2 adds a wedge-shaped crystal and a Tahitian mother of pearl dial
Zach BlassWith such a disruptive and celebrated inaugural effort – followed by one-off creations that had collectors chasing after them at auction – the watch community has been eagerly awaiting the true sequel to the Toledano & Chan B/1. Sure, the duo of geezer watch champion Phil Toledano and designer Alfred Chan set themselves up with an instant winner that could simply have its dial tweaked for infinite iterations – however, they have gone beyond just a pivot from lapis lazuli to mother of pearl, instead using coveted Tahitian mother of pearl and a wedged sapphire crystal to match its sloped brutalist case. Meet the new Toledano & Chan B/1 MOP.
In this video, Andrew and Phil explore the innovative design of the B/1 and the subtle evolutions introduced in the new MOP model. While many were quick to call the B/1 a derivation of the Rolex Cellini King Midas, the pair also deep dive into the brutalist and contemporary origins of the B/1 that allows it to hit both fresh and familiar notes. They also touch on the scarcity versus demand conundrum, and why limited production is a strategic choice to ensure both the quality and exclusivity that market dynamics and consumers desire.
Lastly, Andrew points out how the dominant “cosplay era” of watchmaking that heritage revivals have driven appears to be being met with an equal and opposite force from creative microbrands, leading Phil to speak about the importance of personal passion in the design process – suggesting that genuine enthusiasm can lead to groundbreaking designs that resonate with consumers.
Toledano & Chan B/1 MOP pricing and availability
The Toledano & Chan B/1.2 will be limited to a 200-piece production batch. Price: US$5,700 (excl. taxes)
Brand | Toledano & Chan |
Model | B/1.2 |
Case Dimensions | 33.5mm (W) x 11.2mm (T) (incl. crystal) |
Case Material | 904L stainless steel |
Water Resistance | 50 metres |
Crystal(s) | Sapphire |
Dial | Tahitian mother of pearl |
Bracelet | Integrated steel bracelet, folding clasp |
Movement | Sellita SW100, automatic |
Power Reserve | 42 hours |
Functions | Hours and minutes |
Availability | Limited production batch of 200 pieces |
Price | US$5,700 (excl. taxes) |