Atelier Wen Ancestra Launch EditionvsLinde Werdelin Oktopus Moon Gold Black Ink

The Atelier Wen Ancestra Launch Edition is widely praised for its unique hand-hammered grand feu enamel dial, featuring Chinese arts and crafts and micro-etched poetry on its custom French movement. Owners and reviewers highlight the dial's dramatic gradient and the flush-set baguette diamond hour markers, all housed in a compact 38mm steel case. The movement is noted as superior to standard ETA or Sellita options. Some owners feel a seconds hand would be a welcome addition, and the $5,850 price point is considered a significant step up, with one commenter finding the brand overpriced. Overall, owners and reviewers rate the Atelier Wen Ancestra Launch Edition highly for its exceptional dial artistry and unique movement at its price.

The Linde Werdelin Oktopus Moon Gold Black Ink is noted for its cohesive and impressive design, featuring a photorealistic moon phase display. Reviewers highlight the three-layer skeletonized dial with Côtes de Genève finishing on the lower dial, and the moon phase is visible in the dark. However, the rose gold accents on the dial and hands are considered suboptimal for low-light readability, and the crown guards are described as significantly sharp. The Oktopus II Moon Gold is priced at CHF 27,000 (ex VAT). On balance, reviewers praise the Oktopus Moon Gold Black Ink for its striking design and detailed dial work, tempered by concerns over low-light legibility and sharp crown guards.