Introducing The New Qian GuoBiao Split-Seconds Chronograph

Chinese indie watchmaker Qian GuoBiao has built his work around a clear conviction: mechanical value should be visible, understandable, and meant to be experienced. Rather than hiding complexity behind refinement, his watches place function at the forefront, inviting interaction instead of distant admiration. This year, the watchmaker introduces the Split-Seconds Chronograph, a timepiece that approaches one of high watchmaking’s most demanding complications as a means of expressing China’s growing independent watchmaking identity.

The watch is housed in a stainless steel case with inverted pump pushers flanking the crown, including a dedicated pusher at 8 o’clock for split-seconds control. The case measures 40mm in diameter and 14.5mm in thickness. Turning the watch over reveals a closed metal caseback, with water resistance rated at 50 metres.

The dial is finished in a saturated purple tone, paired with pale yellow scales. Two centrally mounted split-seconds chronograph hands dominate the display, intersecting above the exposed clutch system. Their separation and reunion during operation transform the chronograph into a compelling visual experience. Applied indices and scales are used with restraint, maintaining clarity while supporting the unconventional layout. Timekeeping functions and the 30-minute counter are relocated to a subdial at 12 o’clock, freeing the lower half of the dial and allowing the split-seconds mechanism to remain the focal point.

Powering the watch is the calibre AB-04, an automatic movement based on ETA 7750 architecture that has been extensively reworked in-house. The rattrapante system, bridge layout, and main plate have all been redesigned to support the exposed mechanism and revised display. Operating at a frequency of 28,800 vph (4Hz), the movement delivers a power reserve of 42 hours.

The watch is fitted with a custom calf leather strap crafted by JeaYou. Production is limited to five pieces, each assembled, finished, and tested by GuoBiao and his atelier team. The watch is priced at CHF 29,000, approximately AED 137,800.

For more information, visit Qian GuoBiao’s official website.