MING, coveted for its clean aesthetics and quality craftsmanship, takes the name of one of its founders and key drivers, Ming Thein; a physicist by training, a world class photographer by choice and a watch collector by nature. Together with Massena LAB, an experimental laboratory run by the watch connoisseur and industry veteran, William Massena, who launched his creative playground to work with independent watchmakers, joint forces to create the MING X Massena LAB 17.09, an unusual timepiece beyond the offerings within this price range. The result of this collaboration is nothing short of astounding, a watch made by collectors, ticking all the boxes for collectors.

Launched in 2017, the 17 series set the tone for this model with its signature short-flared lugs and stylised numerals printed on the crystal dial. However, the numbers on the present model are laser etched on the reverse of the sapphire crystal and filled with Super-LumiNova to create a floating elusion which gives the dial an incredible visual dissonance. The most notable feature of this timepiece is its dial. Drawing from early Rolex honeycomb dials, Massena added a touch of flair to the present example with a three dimensional hexagonal pattern, while also adhering to the original 17 series’ design language. Not only beautiful on the outside, but the movement within is also the reliable Schwarz-Etienne 300.M1, which is a modified version of the Sellita SW330-2 and features an hour hand that can be independently set, a useful function for highflyers.

Released in 2021, the honeycomb 17.09 by the two creative houses is housed in a stainless steel case with either a black (150 pieces) or honey-coloured dial (50 pieces), totaling a limited edition of 200 pieces. Attractive, ultra-rare and superbly made, the present timepiece is of great character with developing value.