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With David Attenborough at his side, CIGA Design has finally released the sequel to one of the world’s most admired microbrand watches. The original inspiration for Blue Planet was a RedDot award winner in 2013, six years before the Planet dial was replaced by a one-handed display. Earning multiple recognitions at the GPHG Awards is no small feat. In 2022, Blue Planet also entered the collection of the Geneva Museum of Art and History. This is a huge achievement for the young Chinese brand. The CIGA Design Blue Planet II makes significant adjustments to the formula and proves that the brand isn’t just resting on its laurels.
case
At first glance, the case is one that remains fairly consistent across models. But when viewed side by side, the differences between 2019’s first official CIGA Design Blue Planet and Blue Planet II become clear. This time it’s exactly the shape of a pebble, with its curvature intentionally smooth and uniform across the entire case, like a river stone. The sapphire crystal is also specially double-domed to match the compound radius of the case. The only exception to the sleekness of the case is the hooded lug that houses the strap. The change that makes the most difference visually is the choice of a high-polished finish rather than a brushed one.
46mm is a fairly large diameter, but since there are no lugs, there is no need to separately consider the length between the lugs. It’s certainly a large watch, at 17.05mm thicker than the older Blue Planet, but the shape of the case keeps it comfortable to wear. It’s also not the type of watch that can be handled delicately, so slipping it into a cuff isn’t the most important consideration. In terms of materials, CIGA Design uses recycled titanium. This contributes to environmental friendliness while keeping the watch lightweight and corrosion-resistant. However, there is also a stainless steel version available for a slightly lower price, as well as a ceramic gold-plated version with a matching black ceramic bracelet.
dial
The instant impact of the Blue Planet II dial is incredible. Sure, the original was gorgeous enough to win multiple awards, but the new version is given incredible detail thanks to a new CNC process. The terrain is more exaggerated, and the curvature of the Earth has been increased by 36% (and the curvature of the crystal has also been increased by 25%), creating a sense of depth and scale as if you were actually looking down on the planet. It follows the original 2023 CIGA Design Blue Planet Gilding Version, but without the 24K gold plating. The map itself focuses primarily on the lower parts of Eurasia and Africa surrounding the Indian Ocean, and is a reminder of the ancient Silk Road trade route, which has been crucial to human history for almost 2000 years.
Blue Planet II is not a world timer, so don’t be fooled by its globe appearance. It may be mere decoration, but there is a deeper genius at work. The compass rose on the dial acts as a time pointer that can be read on two concentric rings. When you fix the time on the outer ring, the minute scale rotates accordingly, ensuring that south of the compass always points to the correct time. It may take some getting used to, but it makes reading the time particularly easy as all the relevant information is grouped together in one place. Compared to the previous model, the indexes are slightly larger, and the hour and minute numerals are now luminescent, further improving visibility.
movement
CIGA Design seems reluctant to reveal too much about the Blue Planet II’s new movement, which feels a little strange considering a brand new movement is such a big deal. However, it’s not that difficult to understand what has changed and why. Previous versions of the Blue Planet used the Seagull movement, a clone of the ETA caliber. CIGA Design claims to have tried over 100 movements over three years to find a new supplier and determine the best ebauche for its unique asynchronous follow complication. The movement’s appearance and technical specifications, visible through the sapphire display caseback, reveal that the Blue Planet II uses Miyota’s 8000 series movement as its base.
There is nothing wrong with the Miyota movement. In fact, Miyota is a staple in the world of Japanese flagship movements. However, CIGA Design’s reluctance to make this exchange is understandable, justifying the price hike from 2022 onwards. As far as performance and practicality are concerned, with 21,600vph of vibration, there shouldn’t be any major changes to your wearing experience. There is no second hand, and the watch is self-winding with a 40-hour power reserve. CIGA Design states that the average accuracy range is -15/+30 seconds per day with strict quality control methods in place.
strap
CIGA Design’s fluororubber is essentially another type of FKM rubber that is more resistant to extreme heat, degrading oils, and harsh chemicals than standard silicone or natural rubber straps. It’s not too thick, not too thin, and has a soft texture. The butterfly double push clasp is adjustable and convenient for quick donning, giving it a more premium feel than typical pin buckle straps. The ridges on the front of the navy blue strap also give it a little extra personality. The quick-release spring bar also gives you plenty of opportunity to experiment with straight-ended 22mm straps.
While some may consider movement changes to be a downgrade, I trust CIGA Design to ensure that their flagship models are equipped with the best caliber available, regardless of supplier. Blue Planet II is a visual masterpiece and a great example of how improvements can always be made, even if the older version was already widely loved. With annual price increases expected in the current climate, the price still feels like a solid deal considering the additional R&D required to adapt dial depth and new movements. You can
CIGA Design Blue Planet II Pricing and Availability
CIGA Design Blue Planet II is now available directly from CIGA Design. Price: $1,199 (steel), $1,399 (titanium), $1,999 (gold-plated version)
Brand CIGA Design Model Blue Planet II Case Dimensions 46mm (D) x 17.05mm (T) Case Material Stainless Steel
titanium
Ceramic (gold plated version) Water resistance 30 meters Crystal Sapphire front and back Dial Blue planet strap Blue fluoro rubber, double clasp Movement Miyota 8000, CIGA Design Exclusive asynchronous follow technology, automatic power reserve 40 hours Functions Planet hand as time , Rotational Minute Track Availability On Sale Now Price $1,199 (Steel)
USD 1,399 (titanium)
US$1,999 (gold plated version)
Produced in partnership with CIGA Design. However, the opinions expressed in this article are our own based on our editorial policy.
