The J12 has been released with a blue case based on the concept of "blue close to black, or black close to blue." The solemn elegance expressed by blue reflects the worldview of Chanel.
(Right) J12 BLEU Caliber 12.1 (Ref. H10310)
Following the black and white models, the blue "J12" is now available. Arabic index models and models set with blue sapphires are available. It took approximately five years to develop the blue ceramic to achieve the "blue that's close to black, or black that's close to blue." Automatic movement (Cal. 12.1). (Left) 28 jewels, (Right) 27 jewels. 28,800 vph. Power reserve approximately 70 hours. Highly resistant ceramic and stainless steel case (38mm diameter). Water resistant to 200m. Both are limited edition. (Left) 1,782,000 yen (tax included). (Right) 4,136,000 yen (tax included).
Edited by Yuto Hosoda (Chronos-Japan)
[Article published in the July 2025 issue of Kronos Japan]
The new J12 BLEU Caliber 12.1 in blue
To celebrate the 25th anniversary of the birth of the Chanel "J12," the new blue "J12 BLEU Calibre 12.1" has been announced. The J12 is not only an iconic Chanel watch, but also an epoch-making model that elevated the status of ceramic in the watch industry with its approach and technical expertise, which brought out the color and texture of ceramic to create a unified look in the watch design. Symbolizing Chanel's monotone style, the lineup first came in black in 2000 and in white in 03, and the later addition of the "J12 Paradox," which combined the two.
To commemorate the 25th anniversary of the J12, the capsule collection "J12 BLEU" has been released, featuring the first use of matte blue ceramic. The color concept is "a blue close to black, or a black close to blue," and it expresses a solemn elegance. The color tone was specially adjusted for this collection. While the shade is different from the blue of the popular men's fragrance "BLEU de CHANEL," there are also some similarities. Under a shared worldview that places the emphasis on elegance rather than casualness or sportiness, the ability to enjoy a total coordination of fashion, fragrance, and watches is a typical CHANEL approach.
This time we will introduce two models: one with a basic Arabic numerals and a date display, and one with baguette-cut blue sapphires as the indexes and no date display. The subtle adjustments to the presence or absence of a date display depending on the design are characteristic of Chanel, and are also one of the reasons why the J12 is so popular.
