On January 29, 2025, the world will celebrate the Chinese New Year and welcome the Year of the Wood Snake. This year’s zodiac animal symbolises growth, creativity, and flexibility, bringing the promise of fresh beginnings and transformative experiences. Whether you’re a watch enthusiast or looking for a truly special gift for the occasion, luxury watch brands have released a series of exquisite limited-edition timepieces in honour of this celestial event. These watches blend the rich tradition of Chinese symbolism with cutting-edge watchmaking, creating pieces that are as beautiful as they are meaningful. If you're searching for the perfect Chinese New Year gift or simply want to treat yourself to something unique, our handpicked selection of these exceptional watches is sure to impress. Let’s explore some of the most spectacular limited-edition timepieces celebrating the Year of the Snake.
Vacheron Constantin Métiers d’Art: The Legend of the Chinese Zodiac – Year of the Snake
Vacheron Constantin, a name that embodies timeless craftsmanship, is celebrating the Year of the Snake with a truly exceptional release from its Métiers d’Art collection: The Legend of the Chinese Zodiac. With only 25 pieces available in each colourway, these watches are as rare as they are breathtaking—making them a must-have for collectors and watch enthusiasts alike.
Each timepiece in this limited-edition collection measures 40mm and is offered in two luxurious metals: pink gold or platinum. Both versions feature an exquisite hand-engraved snake motif against a striking Grand Feu enamel dial. The platinum model showcases a deep blue dial, while the pink gold version has a warm, rich brown backdrop, making the intricate engraving truly pop. The snake is a symbol of grace, strength, and wisdom, perfectly captured through the brand’s exceptional artistry.
But what truly sets these watches apart is their unique way of telling time. Instead of traditional hands, these models use four apertures around the dial to display the hours, minutes, day, and date—powered by Vacheron Constantin’s in-house Caliber 2460 G4. This clever design ensures that the beauty of the dial remains the star of the show, while still offering precision and reliability. The dial’s fine details are brought to life using the ancient art of champlevé engraving and enamelwork, making each watch a miniature masterpiece.
Starting at $112,000 for the pink gold version, the Métiers d’Art watches are more than just timepieces—they’re investments in art and horology.
Jaeger-LeCoultre Reverso Tribute Enamel Snake Watch
For those who appreciate the perfect blend of tradition and innovation, the Jaeger-LeCoultre Reverso Tribute Enamel Snake watch is nothing short of breathtaking. Known for its mastery in horology, Jaeger-LeCoultre has once again raised the bar with this stunning timepiece, showcasing the brand’s dedication to exceptional craftsmanship.
The Reverso Tribute Enamel "Snake" is a made-to-order creation, designed to honor the Year of the Snake with intricate hand engraving and mesmerizing enamel work. Housed in a 45.5mm x 27.4mm pink gold case, the watch features Jaeger-LeCoultre's signature swiveling case design, allowing you to flip the watch to reveal two sides of artistry. On one side, a black enamel backdrop sets the stage for a snake emerging from golden clouds—a symbol of strength and transformation. It took over 80 hours of engraving to bring this snake to life, with every detail meticulously crafted to perfection.
On the reverse side (the “recto”), you'll find a classic black enamel dial with Dauphine hands and applied indexes, giving the watch a timeless, refined look. Powered by the manually wound Caliber 822, the watch offers a 42-hour power reserve, ensuring that it combines both beauty and functionality. Whether you're drawn to the snake motif or simply admire the craftsmanship, this watch is a true statement piece that merges tradition with artistic flair.
The Iconic Bulgari Serpenti: The Most Famous Snake Watch
When it comes to snake-inspired watches, Bulgari’s Serpenti collection reigns supreme as the ultimate icon. The Serpenti is more than just a timepiece—it’s a statement of style and luxury. First introduced in the 1940s, this collection has evolved through the years to remain both timeless and trendsetting, blending classic elegance with modern sophistication.
The Serpenti watch is designed to wrap gracefully around the wrist, mimicking the flowing curves of a snake. Available in a variety of styles, from sleek and contemporary to dazzling versions encrusted with gemstones, the Serpenti caters to all tastes. Its signature coiled bracelet comes in a range of materials, including gold, steel, and diamond-paved designs, making it a favourite among women who want a piece that combines artistry, fashion, and horology.
Among the standout models in this collection are the Serpenti Viper and Serpenti Tubogas. With their winding bracelets and iconic snake-head design, these watches exude a sense of mystery and opulence, perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re celebrating the Year of the Snake or simply drawn to the serpent's powerful symbolism, the Bulgari Serpenti remains a timeless piece that never goes out of style.
Blancpain Villeret Calendrier Chinois Traditionnel 2025: A Tribute to the Year of the Snake
Blancpain, renowned for its exquisite complications and refined design, honors the Year of the Snake with the Villeret Calendrier Chinois Traditionnel 2025. This stunning timepiece elevates the fusion of Chinese tradition and Swiss watchmaking to an entirely new level.
Limited to just 50 pieces, the Villeret 2025 features a striking 45.2mm platinum case that frames a rich green Grand Feu enamel dial. What truly sets this watch apart is its ability to display not only the traditional Gregorian calendar but also the Chinese lunar calendar, making it a perfect tribute to the zodiac. At 9 and 12 o’clock, two apertures showcase the Chinese leap month and the zodiac sign for the year, aligning seamlessly with the astrological cycle.
The serpentine motif is woven throughout the design. Inside, the watch is powered by the Caliber 3638 movement, a technical marvel with 464 components and an impressive seven-day power reserve. On the back of the case, a 22k white gold rotor is engraved with a delicate snake motif, adding an extra layer of symbolism and artistry to the piece.
With a retail price of CHF 81,000, the Blancpain Villeret Calendrier Chinois Traditionnel 2025 is a true masterpiece that combines cutting-edge craftsmanship with timeless design—a perfect fusion of horology and tradition.
IWC Portofino Automatic Moon Phase Year of the Snake Watch
For those who appreciate a more subtle yet elegant tribute to the Year of the Snake, the IWC Portofino Automatic Moon Phase 37 Year of the Snake offers a refined design with a touch of luxury. Crafted in stainless steel, this 37mm timepiece features a striking burgundy dial, beautifully complemented by gold-plated hands and appliqués.
What makes this watch truly special is the moon phase complication at 12 o’clock. The golden moon and stars sit gracefully against the deep red dial, evoking the vibrant colors of Chinese New Year celebrations. On the case back, a gold-plated oscillating mass is shaped like a snake, offering a quiet yet meaningful nod to the zodiac.
Limited to just 500 pieces, the Portofino Automatic Moon Phase delivers both aesthetic beauty and reliable performance. Powered by IWC’s in-house Caliber 32800 automatic movement, it boasts a five-day power reserve, ensuring it’s as functional as it is stylish. With a price tag of $9,700, this watch is an excellent choice for anyone looking for a luxurious yet understated tribute to the Lunar New Year.
Dior Grand Soir Year of the Snake
Dior’s Grand Soir collection is always a visual masterpiece, and this year’s Dior Grand Soir Year of the Snake watch is no exception. Limited to just 38 pieces, this timepiece celebrates the serpent with an explosion of creativity and exquisite craftsmanship. The dial features a stunning rose gold snake winding its way through a dreamy landscape of mother-of-pearl and golden leaves, while delicate rose gold butterflies dance around, capturing the graceful movement of the serpent.
But it’s not just about the stunning visuals—every detail of this watch has been thoughtfully crafted to embody the spirit of the snake in the world of high fashion. If you’re looking for a watch that blends luxury watchmaking with couture artistry, the Dior Grand Soir Year of the Snake is a true showstopper.
Breguet Classique 7145 Lunar New Year 2025 Watch
Last but certainly not least, the Breguet Classique 7145 Lunar New Year 2025 watch is a true work of art. Limited to just eight pieces, this 18k rose gold timepiece features a hand-decorated dial that masterfully combines guilloché patterns with delicate painting. The dial showcases a snake slithering through vibrant green foliage, and the lush greens and intricate details make it a stunning visual masterpiece.
Inside, the watch is powered by the ultra-thin Caliber 502.3 automatic movement, a marvel of precision and durability. Through the sapphire crystal caseback, you can admire the 22k gold oscillating weight, which is hand-engraved with a barleycorn guilloché pattern—further highlighting Breguet’s renowned expertise in decorative craftsmanship.
Priced at CHF 69,000, the Breguet Classique 7145 is for those who truly appreciate the finer things in life. It blends elegance, artistry, and technical excellence into one exceptional timepiece.
Conclusion: A Year of Growth, Creativity, and Flexibility
As we step into the Year of the Snake in 2025, these extraordinary timepieces offer more than just a way to mark the passage of time—they are artistic tributes to an animal admired for its wisdom, grace, and transformative power. From intricate engravings to vibrant enamel dials and sophisticated designs, each watch tells a unique story, blending expert craftsmanship with cultural significance. Whether you’re celebrating the Lunar New Year or simply drawn to the symbolism of the snake, these watches are the perfect way to honour a year of growth and creativity.