ReviewA New Star Is Born: The Arnold & Son Nebula Skeleton Watch

Arnold & Son’s Nebula collection was introduced only in 2016, but in this short span, these timepieces have become a staple for watch enthusiasts. The latest addition to the family is the 41.5mm stainless steel version, with a captivating blue finish. The high-end, creative watch showcases the brand’s expertise in watchmaking. Known for their impressive watches, such as the Double Tourbillon and Constant Force, the Nebula has been a standout piece for the brand, with its impressive craftsmanship and symmetry. The new version, released ahead of the 2022 edition of Watches and Wonders Geneva, features a sporty design, making it perfect for those who want a watch that is both elegant and different.

Cosmic Inspiration

Following the success of the original 41.5mm red gold and stainless steel models, the brand introduced a 38mm version in red gold. And just last year, a stainless steel version of the 38 mm was released. Now, the 41.5mm stainless steel Nebula returns, showcasing a mesmerising blue finish and another equally stunning one in gold. This latest iteration is sure to impress with its stunning design and intricate skeletonised movement. 

The name ‘Nebula’ was inspired by the cosmic clouds of dust and gas found in space. Some nebulas are created by dying stars, while others are the birthplace of new stars. The seven bridges on the dial of this timepiece are arranged to radiate outward, creating the illusion of a cosmic explosion. The A&S5201 calibre is a unique creation, showcasing its skeletonised design and almost perfect symmetry. The bridges are designed in a traditional shape, reminiscent of John Arnold’s chronometers, and their open-worked structure adds a sense of lightness to the mechanical design.

Designed as a skeleton

Unlike skeleton watches that were simply hollowed out after creation, the A&S5201 manual-winding movement in the Nebula 41.5 Steel was designed to be a skeletonised movement from the start. This allows for an optimised display of the movement’s components, resulting in a symmetrical and balanced layout. The twin barrels above the 9–3 axis are mirrored by the seconds ring and balance wheel below, all held in place by the seven bridges. The result is a beautifully organised mechanical masterpiece on display for all to admire. 

The bridges are designed in a traditional shape, reminiscent of John Arnold’s chronometers, and their open-worked structure adds a sense of lightness to the mechanical design

The main plate, barrel covers, and flange around the dial have been coated with blue PVD, providing a striking contrast against the palladium-treated bridges of the movement

The main plate, barrel covers, and flange around the dial have been coated with blue PVD, providing a striking contrast against the palladium-treated bridges of the movement. The movement is incredibly slim at just four millimetres, yet it still manages to hold a 90-hour power reserve. This allows the overall watch to be just 8.73mm thick. A beautiful ‘Rayons de la Gloire’ brushing has been added to the back of the movement plate, and the balance wheel has been coated in rhodium to perfectly match the other components.

Unlike skeletonised watches that are often hollowed out after creation, the A&S5201 manual-winding movement in the Nebula 41.5 Steel was designed to be a skeletonised movement from the start

The movement is incredibly slim at just 4mm, yet it still manages to hold a 90-hour power reserve

Two-Toned Beauty

The watch is encased in stainless steel, and comes with either a polished three-link stainless steel bracelet or a rugged ballistic-type rubber strap with a unique woven-look surface. The two-tone design is not only found on the exterior but also on the inner workings and details of the watch, giving it a cohesive look.

The watch is encased in stainless steel, and comes with either a rugged ballistic-type rubber strap or a polished three-link stainless steel bracelet, as seen here

Crafted from 18-carat red gold, there’s another rendition of this timepiece that beautifully blends shades of gold and anthracite grey. The mesmerizing grey is achieved through a NAC treatment, utilizing a galvanic bath infused with platinum-like metals. The stunning skeletonized main plate, barrels, and flange are embellished with Nebula, accentuating the A&S5201 movement’s intricate contours. The architecture is easily discernable on multiple tiers, with the bridges front and center, the gear train and barrels on the next level, and the main plate in the background.

Skeletonised watches may be a niche market, but the Arnold & Son Nebula is a standout among its peers. Its unique, symmetrical design sets it apart, and the new versions are sure to be a hit with collectors. Besides, at this price point, it’s hard to find a movement that was specifically designed to be skeletonised, making the Nebula a true star.