Blurring Boundaries of Design in Watchmaking: A Look at David Candaux's New DC7 Blue Hawk

Famed for his unconventional ideas and technical finesse, independent watchmaker David Candaux never shies away from breaking the conformities of timepiece design. The introduction of his latest creation, the DC7 Blue Hawk, serves as a testament to his philosophy of combining mechanical prowess, architectural depth, and visual fascination. Like its precursors - the DC1 from 2017 and the DC6 from 2019 - the Blue Hawk exudes an innovative language of asymmetry, light play, and multi-level architecture. Crafted from Grade 5 titanium, the Blue Hawk features a case that boasts a striking basin-shape silhouette. Its unique design offers a comfortable fit on the wrist, while its patented ‘Magic Crown’ feature redefines user interaction. The retractable system stays flush with the case when inactive and springs out upon pressing, facilitating effortless winding and setting of the timepiece. The new strain of Candaux’s creativity is also apparent in the dial design. Anodised titanium is used in its making, which hosts the skeletonised, hand-polished hour and minute hands. The dial presents a thrilling play of light and depth, created by the centric engraved minutes track and recessed baton hour indices. A delicate dance of colour is achieved by blue Super-LumiNova triangles that mirror the dial’s deep anodised hue. Further distinction is added by the aperture for the inclined tourbillon at 12 o’clock. The DC7 Blue Hawk is not just a timepiece; it’s a sheer work of art that challenges the status quo of watch design. It encapsulates Candaux’s vision of horological innovation - a vision where mechanical mastery, architectural depth, and visual intrigue collide.