The Arsenal of Venice, founded in 1104, was a symbol of power and ingenuity, transforming the city into one of the most influential maritime centers of the medieval world. In an era when Italian city-states competed for dominance over the seas, Venice stood out not only for its fleet but also for its innovative industrial organization applied to shipbuilding. The Arsenal was the first example of near-industrial production, employing advanced techniques for its time that allowed ships to be built in series, speeding up production while improving quality.
The Precursor of the Modern Factory
This shipyard was not only the heart of Venice's maritime power but also a precursor of the modern factory concept. Ships were constructed following an early form of assembly line: different phases of the process were carried out simultaneously, thanks to the specialization of workers and the use of advanced technologies such as standardized parts production. This unique approach allowed Venice to quickly renew its fleet, maintaining naval supremacy for centuries.
Arsenale: A Bridge Between Past and Future
When we designed our Arsenale model, we were inspired by this innovative and visionary spirit. The watch embraces the concept of integrating tradition and modernity, much like how the Venetian Arsenal combined artisanal craftsmanship with cutting-edge techniques of its time. The 316L stainless steel case and Canova Concept™ bracelet offer both robustness and elegance, while the Côtes de Genève vertical finish on the dial evokes a classic workmanship, reinterpreted with a contemporary touch.
A Tribute to the Iconic Towers of the Arsenale
A special tribute to the Arsenal of Venice is found on the bezel of the Arsenale watch, where the texture echoes the iconic towers that define this historic complex. Once functional elements of defense and control, the towers of the Arsenal symbolized power and innovation. These structures stood guard over the main entrance to the shipyard, serving as watchtowers to protect one of the Serenissima’s most valuable assets: its naval fleet. Beyond their defensive role, the towers held great symbolic value. Built to convey the image of an invincible Venice, they represented the strength, engineering prowess, and capability of a city that dominated the seas.
Less Than 9mm in Thickness
With a thickness of just 8.95mm, we have created an extremely slim automatic watch. This achievement is the result of careful design aimed at optimizing every millimeter of internal space. The Miyota 9029 caliber, a 28,800 vibrations per hour movement, free of a date function and with only two hands, proved perfect for combining elegance and performance in such a reduced space. The Arsenale is water-resistant up to 50 meters and has been designed to be a functional and versatile watch, capable of blending aesthetics and performance with discretion and refinement.
History Engraved on the Caseback
The caseback of our watch celebrates one of the most iconic symbols of the Arsenal of Venice: the towers. Carefully depicted, these towers are not just a visual tribute to the past but also represent the deep connection between tradition and the drive for innovation that defines our work. Just as the Arsenal combined the technological advancements of its time with a solid artisanal tradition, our timepiece merges elements of classical watchmaking with a modern design, creating a unique piece that looks to the future while maintaining a strong bond with its origins.
For more information on the Arsenale collection, click on the link.
