Fashion Fantasy: The All-New Chanel J12

Twenty years ago the J12 was introduced by Chanel, and it proved to be a trailblazing concept, uniting a sense for timeless fashion with the world of high-tech ceramic. The power of this creation is that it provides you with an upscale, modern and sportive look, without overdoing it in any of these departments. A J12 is always instantly recognizable, while its owners also enjoy the benefits of its ceramic case and bracelet, as it is very light, scratch resistant and heats up to body temperature fast.

For 2019 Chanel completely reworked the J12, although at first glance it doesn’t look that way. While its character remained the same, nearly every part was examined and redesigned. When you hold the new J12, it feels and looks like a better watch, without that you can immediately pinpoint why. It is a revolution disguised as an evolution.

While the J12 may look good, it is also a solid performer. It comes, of course, with its case and bracelet in either black or white ceramic and a diving style turning-bezel. This is not for show, as the J12 is water resistant up to 200 meters. While the previous generation was fitted with an ETA 2892, the new one is powered by Chanel caliber 12.1. This movement is made by Kenissi, a movement manufacture of which Chanel is part owner. Next to looking good does this caliber also offer a power reserve of over 70 hours, hacking seconds and a date function, and is it Chronometer certified as well.

All these upgrades, especially that of the movement, have made a J12 even more of a contender then it was ever before. Despite being twenty years old, the design is proving its staying power as it looks as contemporary today as it did when it was introduced, and that is something very little other watches can lay a claim to.