A Closer Look at the Jacob & Co. Astronomia Solar

The newest addition to the Jacob & Co. Astronomia line of watches, the Astronomia Solar, provides not only the time, but a beautiful (if not scientifically accurate) rendition of the movements of our local celestial bodies. Taken alongside other offerings from Jacob & Co., this newest watch holds its own as an enviable and impeccably-designed piece. In this article, we will examine the key features of the watch in detail. If you are looking to purchase a new luxury watch, especially one with a celestial theme, you should definitely read on.

The Case

The Astronomia Solar is encased in 18K Rose gold, interspersed with sapphire to ensure the best possible view of the planetary movements within. This watch is also the smallest in the Astronomia line, with a diameter of 44.5mm. However, the case is quite thick at 21mm – but this is necessary as it ensures proper accommodation of the three-dimensional movement within. The case is only water-resistant for up to 30 meters – so no swimming with it on your wrist! This relatively low resistance is not surprising when you take into account the considerable complexity of this watch. In fact, the Astronomia Solar has more parts than any other watch in the line with 447 parts. This number does not even include the numerous gemstones.

The Mechanics

This watch, which is set using two fold-out “bows” on the case, features eight planetary bodies, a counter-rotating night sky, a flying tourbillon, and a time dial. It is important to note that this watch is meant to provide a fantastical interpretation of the night sky – not an accurate depiction of celestial movements. The watch itself consists of three arms. One goes to the time dial, one to the biaxial tourbillon, and one to the model of Earth. One thing you will notice is that Jacob and Co. has created a more obvious visual experience with this iteration of the Astronomia line. Every 60 seconds, the Earth makes one rotation on its vertical axis. Every ten minutes, both the aventurine base and the Earth complete a full rotation around the watch. The base includes a depiction of the night sky, as well as the other seven planets.

The end result of this particular design is a striking visual experience that is powerfully reminiscent of a speedy Solar System. This watch, as with other watches in the Astronomia line, must be wound every 48 hours to maintain consistent operation.

The Décor

The Jacob and Co. Astronomia Solar is a gorgeous watch that has been carefully created to appeal to high-end watch collectors. Every inch of the watch is crafted to elicit a response of awe from any onlooker who sees you wearing this lovely piece of art. The miniature Earth is made of hand-engraved titanium, topped with 18K Rose Gold and blue lacquer to represent the continents and the oceans. This design tends to catch the eye, as the Earth is one of the focal points of this watch.

Another focal point is the 1.5 carat, 288-facet citrine that tops the center of the main movement. This gem represents the sun, and was cut in the patented Jacob cut method. This watch also includes seven more gemstones embedded in the aventurine base – one to represent each additional planet. The gemstones are as follows: white granite for Mercury, rhodonite for Venus, red jasper for Mars, pietersite for Jupiter, tiger eye for Saturn (with 18K Rose Gold representing the rings), blue alcite for Uranus and lapis lazuli for Neptune. Each of the gems was carefully chosen to provide the best artistic representation of the Solar System.

Another valuable feature that this watch has is an easily-readable time dial. The hands are a bright blue color that stands in stark contrast to the dark, night sky design of the base – facilitating quick and easy telling of time, which is an important feature for any watch.

The Verdict

The newest offering from Jacob and Co.’s Astronomia line does not disappoint. This artistic rendition of the Solar System is sure to turn heads, especially with the carefully-chosen gemstones and painstakingly-crafted parts. Though the watch is smaller than others from the Astronomia line, it is still a thick and durable watch that doubles as a work of art.

All in all, Jacob and Co. watches might be pricey. However, if you are looking for a unique watch or a conversation piece, the Astronomia Solar watch is a stellar choice. Quite literally, in fact.