The world of horology has long been fascinated with luminescent materials ever since the discovery of radium by Marie and Pierre Curie in 1898. Over the years, watchmakers have experimented with various substances like radium, tritium, and Super-LumiNova to make watch dials glow in the dark. However, a fully luminous watch case remains a rarity, with only a few notable instances, such as those by Bell & Ross and Tockr, gracing the pages of our magazine. Now, IWC Schaffhausen is poised to redefine this niche with its latest innovation: Ceralume, a proprietary luminous ceramic technology that marks the first fully luminous ceramic watch.
IWC Schaffhausen’s engineering division, XPL, has developed a revolutionary luminous ceramic compound, setting itself apart from other brands that use materials closer to resin or hydro-dipped coatings. This breakthrough, a culmination of years of research, blends ceramic powders with high-grade Super-LumiNova pigments. The result is a watch that emits a bright bluish light for over 24 hours in dark conditions, a unique feature that showcases the innovative nature of IWC Schaffhausen’s Ceralume technology.
Ceralume’s innovation lies in its ability to absorb light, store it, and then emit it as visible light, a process that can be repeated indefinitely. This luminous ceramic was developed from a conventional white ceramic compound, utilizing zirconium oxide mixed with other metallic oxides. The concept watch, based on IWC Schaffhausen’s ‘Pilot’s Watch’ Chronograph 41, features not only a luminous ceramic case but also a matching white luminescent dial and rubber strap. The dial is crafted from a brass base sprayed with a Super-LumiNova solution, while the strap is enhanced with Super-LumiNova pigments through an injection molding process.
Despite its current status as a concept watch and not yet available for commercial purchase, the Ceralume has already caught the eye of many. In fact, it made a dazzling appearance at the 2024 Monaco Grand Prix on the wrist of none other than Lewis Hamilton. Known for his penchant for special and unique timepieces, Hamilton was spotted multiple times sporting the Ceralume, adding yet another striking watch to his impressive collection.
ALSO READ: KICKS & FAMOUS FACES: UNVEILING THE 8 ULTIMATE CELEBRITY SNEAKER AFICIONADOS.
