2021 marks the 50th anniversary of the United Arab Emirates, a nation whose culture is inexorably rooted in heritage and tradition, and whose vision for the future is bold, ambitious and at the cutting edge of technology – just like some of our favourite watch brands.
August 23, 2021
50 years of crafting the future with the UAE
by AHMED SEDDIQI & SONS
As Curators of Time since 1950, Ahmed Seddiqi & Sons has been instrumental in establishing the UAE as a regional hub for horology, advancing the understanding and knowledge of fine watchmaking and bringing the world’s finest watchmaking marques to the region.
The histories of the UAE and Ahmed Seddiqi & Sons are beautifully interwoven.
(1) Having recently celebrated its own 70th anniversary with a collection of limited-edition timepieces, Ahmed Seddiqi & Sons is honoured to be commemorating the Year of the 50th in a similar vein – by celebrating the finest high-end watchmaking talent in the world courtesy of more than 35 instantly covetable limited-edition releases.
(2) A special think-tank led by Mohammed Abdulmagied Seddiqi has worked hand in hand with leading watch brands to create limited-edition timepieces to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the United Arab Emirates. The limited-edition collection of more than 35 pieces draws on technical mastery and the superlative savoir faire of skilled watchmakers to craft the next chapter in the ever-evolving story of the UAE and Ahmed Seddiqi & Sons.
Here are the limited-edition timepieces that celebrate 50 years of crafting the future with the UAE
Moritz-Grossmann "The Fifty"
Bearing the name of the country proudly on its mirror-polished black dial, the commemorative timepiece created by Moritz-Grossmann celebrates the United Arab Emirates and the longstanding connection with Ahmed Seddiqi & Sons. This horological homage comes all the way from the independent manufacture in the heart of Glashütte in a limited release of just ten pieces, each of which has its number engraved on the case-back. An elegant 41mm in diameter and featuring a hand-wound movement, the stainless steel timepiece epitomises exceptional German craftsmanship. The special edition is exclusively available via Ahmed Seddiqi & Sons.
“The Fifty is a watch that represents a milestone and its bold design symbolizes modernity and looking towards a bright future,” says Moritz Grossmann founder and CEO Christine Hutter. "The entire team at Moritz Grossmann congratulates the UAE and our partners Ahmed Seddiqi & Sons. We look forward to the next 50 years!“
Sarpaneva "Unity" and "Freedom"
Two eye-catching editions pay tribute to the colours of the United Arab Emirates. A red dial-coloured ‘Unity’ edition and a green ‘Freedom’ version celebrate the 50-year legacy of the country while nodding to its future courtesy of independent watchmaker Stephan Sarpaneva, a Finnish watchmaker specializing in individually hand-crafted, complicated timepieces with the motto ‘not for everyone’. Each of these watches, which are 42mm in diameter courtesy of a DLC-stainless steel case forged from Finland’s renowned steel giant Outokumpu, has been crafted to pay homage to the UAE and to celebrate its position as a cultural hub for craftsmanship and horology. Uniting the traditions of watchmaking with an avant-garde approach to design, Sarpaneva’s two timepieces are destined to be covetable conversation starters for the fortunate collectors who acquire one.
Louis Moinet "Al Sarraj Astrolabe UAE Celebration"
Inspired by one of the most advanced astronomic creations from the Islamic world, this incredible watch draws on the 14th-century invention of Ahmad Ibn Al Sarraj.
“This rare limited edition is inspired by one of the oldest instruments in human history: the astrolabe, which makes it possible to make astronomical observations and tell the time during the day by observing the sun, and at night by observing the stars,” notes Louis Moinet CEO, Jean-Marie Schaller. “Louis Moinet presents a new setting of the sleek design with a logo for the 50th anniversary of the UAE.
H. Moser et Cie Endeavour Centre Seconds Concept Erythro
Drawing inspiration from one of the colours of the United Arab Emirates flag, H. Moser & Cie. Presents a limited-edition timepiece that brings ruby to its celebrated dials for the very first time.
Joining hands with Ahmed Seddiqi & Sons, H. Moser & Cie. unveils a timepiece sure to captivate collectors thanks to its distinctive aesthetic language that makes it instantly identifiable as the work of this independent watchmaker. A Moser watch is the ideal companion for the collector who likes to whisper, rather than shout, and this particular creation is from H. Moser & Cie.’s Concept series, with neither logo nor indices, an especially minimalist reimagining of the brand’s values that does away with mention of the brand name and distils the design down to the absolutely, gloriously minimalist. Pared back and stripped of superfluous elements, its perfectly balanced purity comes to the fore.
The watch pays tribute to the long-standing partnership between the Seddiqi and Meylan families. Mohammed Abdulmagied Seddiqi, CCO of Ahmed Seddiqi & Sons commented: “We are especially thrilled to have worked on this exceptional model, the first ever H. Moser showcasing a dial made of ruby”.
Moser is known for its impeccable fumé dials – a striking visual pillar, and ruby, a symbol of loyalty, charity and passion, underscores the uncluttered purity of the design, a true expression of ‘less is more’ luxury. Housed inside its 40 mm steel case, the HMC 200 in-house movement is equipped with a regulating organ manufactured by Precision Engineering AG, H. Moser & Cie.'s sister company. Decorated with the famous Moser double stripes, the calibre HMC 200 houses a large engraved gold oscillating weight.
The Endeavour Centre Seconds Concept Erythro is issued in just 20 pieces.
Bovet 19thirty Fleurier Limited Edition
An homage to the UAE’s Year of the Fiftieth, the limited edition Bovet 19Thirty Fleurier stands out and gleams as it encapsulates the sophistication and excellence of the nation. Featuring a hand decorated dial, ergonomic 42mm case, exhibition caseback and hand-wound movement, the timepiece is the definition of watchmaking excellence. The sapphire cabochon that ornaments the crown highlights its exceptional elegance, while the strap with its contrast thread makes for an exclusive masterpiece like no other.
WestEnd "The Formation"
The foundation of Ahmed Seddiqi & Sons is closely linked with West End Watch Co. of Switzerland. It started in late 1940s with the purchase of 12 West End watches by the late Ahmed Qasim Seddiqi. Everyone remembers him affectionately speaking of West End as “The Mother of Swiss Watches". This was followed by the sale of hundreds of thousands of West End watches, over the decades, making it one of the greatest success stories for Swiss watches in the Middle East. Nicknamed “The Formation”, this special edition watch was recently made to celebrate the UAE’s Golden Jubilee. The timepiece features Indian-Arabic numerals and a caseback with the year of the fiftieth engraved. Each watch comes numbered individually. Limited edition to 100 pieces only.
Chopard "My Soul Loves You"
Introducing the “My Soul Loves You” bracelet by Chopard, a recreation of the 1997 model in occasion of the UAE 50th Anniversary. Its design and beauty truly lie in the Arabic calligraphy meticulously formed in two variations of 100% ethical gold – white gold and rose gold. The white gold bracelet has a moving white diamond inside a heart, while the rose gold bracelet has a moving ruby inside a heart, representing our adoration for this great nation. This message of love shines boldly with pave-encrusted letters.
Anonimo "Epurato UAE 50"
An understated yet elegant epitome of the resounding joy of the Year of the Fiftieth, Anonimo’s limited edition Epurato UAE 50 is Swiss minimalism at its best. Leaning towards the UAE colour palette with its burgundy varnished dial, white hands with Super-LumiNova, and a green strap, the timepiece is simply an invitation to embrace the historic moment. The cushion-shaped case comes in a satin bronze finish and is encrusted with a sapphire crystal and anti-reflective coating, and embellished with 26 jewels. The signature engraving on the case back with the Year of the Fiftieth logo makes the piece a timeless memento.
De Bethune "UAE HAWK"
A true representation of the UAE, the De Bethune anniversary edition for the Year of the Fiftieth collection is an endearing tribute to the nation’s heritage. Known as the “UAE Hawk”, the colour is directly inspired by national shades while the iconic lugs glide towards the future and across italicized numerals including a distinctive “50”. The timepiece is completed with an engraved “Year of the Fiftieth” logo in the case back a tribute to the Spirit of the Union.
Concord Mariner Slim Gent
Technical precision. Modern design. UAE in a timepiece. This is the Year of the 50th limited edition, Concord Mariner Slim Gent. Designed with its signature 40mm and 12-sided bevel case, and secured by a stylish, slimline bracelet with a stainless steel deployment buckle, the Mariner Slim Gent is a subtle tribute to the successes and evolution of the nation. The sophisticated onyx hue upon stainless steel reflects the resilience and poise that the UAE exemplifies. The case back comes engraved with the Year of the Fiftieth logo, making for a timeless keepsake dedicated to this momentous occasion.
Bulgari Sakura
An enduring design. An iconic reincarnation inspired by the women of the UAE. The limited edition Bvlgari Sakura was created to mark the Year of the 50th, in collaboration with Mahra Seddiqi, the first female member of Ahmed Seddiqi & Sons to join the family workforce. A symbol of women’s achievements that takes inspiration from the Roman jewellery house’s heritage piece from the 50s, the Bvlgari Sakura features an exclusive pink Mother of Pearl dial, a bracelet strap with a brushed finish, and a high-precision quartz movement adjusted by a cabochon-cut pink rubellite stone in the crown.
Garrick S4
A fine British-made watch that celebrates the UAE’s coming of age, the Garrick S4 Year of the 50th limited edition exemplifies an unwavering pursuit of excellence in tribute of the nation itself. While it’s designed with a 42mm stainless steel case with a sapphire crystal and an exhibition case back, it also comes with a Swiss hand-wound calibre and handmade straps. The metal plate on the dial features an Arabic inscription of Garrick England, written by a Seddiqi family member which lends this timepiece even more exclusivity
Louis Erard x Alain Silberstein 50th Edition
The epitome of watchmaking that celebrates the UAE's 50th Anniversary is here, The Louis Erard x Alain Silberstein 50th Edition goes against the grain synergetic to Dubai's spirit of adventure & pioneering. This edition comes with a regulator, a sandblasted and polished titanium case with a 40mm black carbon dial. This watch also comes in a black or orange nylon strap. Get in touch with us now to register your interest!
Gerald Charles 50th Anniversary
The Gerald Charles 50th Anniversary watch pays homage to the visionaries who craft the future and embodies a legacy that is causing timeless ripples much like our late founding father Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan Al Nahyan. This brand commandeered the industry in the 70’s and still is to this day. The design features a 39x41mm stainless steel case with an asymmetric polygon design and smooth edges, which is an original design by Mr. Gerald Charles. The case back comes engraved with the Year of the Fiftieth logo to commemorate the UAE’s 50th Anniversary.
Laurent Ferrier Classic VII
An exclusive timepiece that shines in the light of the nation celebrating it’s Year of the 50th.
The Laurent Classic VII limited edition is designed as a tribute to the UAE with great precision and minimalism. Housed in a 40mm classic case made of Grade 5 titanium, the gradient dial portrays the journey towards the triumphs of the nation. The hand wound Calibre LF 1 1 6.01, visible via the exhibition case back, is refined to the highest order, while still encompassing the high-end finishing found on every Laurent Ferrier creation.
Messika Lucky Move Color
Behold the sparkling radiance of Messika’s Lucky Move Color. Four new medals created in exclusive variations with rare coloured stones to mark the Year of the 50th. Reflecting different mantras – vibrancy, intuition, adventuresome, and mindfulness – the four necklaces come in different gold finishes. A groove in the centre holds the diamonds in place which symbolises freedom. The medallion turns on itself and is accentuated by a circle
Konstantin Chaykin‘s Joker
Konstantin Chaykin‘s Joker watch is one of the most whimsical timepieces which pays an homage to one of the most famous characters we all know. The UAE's 50th Anniversary version has a green and red painted dial with Hindi/Arabic numerals and an engraving of the Year of the Fitieth on the backcase.
Norqain Independence UAE Edition
Presenting the Independence UAE Edition by NORQAIN; a watch that celebrates adventure, freedom & independence as its core values. This Year of the 50th limited edition is designed with a 42mm stainless steel case and a dial that stands for MAMS or “Make All Moments Significant” and that coincides with the initials of Mohammed Abdulmagied Seddiqi. Featuring 2 numerical systems which are half English and Half Hindi/Arabic along with a caseback that has the Year of The Fiftieth engraving. Limited to 25 pieces only.
Hublot Classic Fusion Chronograph Concrete Sand
As the UAE contemplates its significant journey over the past 50 years and begins preparing for the next 50, Hublot and Ahmed Seddiqi & Sons celebrate the UAE's golden jubilee launching a new embodiment of the Art of Fusion: the Classic Fusion Chronograph Concrete Sand, realized with the use of UAE's sand in the dial, concrete for the case and camel leather for the strap.
Furlan Marri UAE 50th Anniversary Edition
A timepiece encapsulating the artistry and ambition of a nation, the Furlan Marri UAE 50th Anniversary Edition is crafted with care and designed for details. Featuring a 38mm case made of highly polished stainless steel and made in the hues of the nation, the Furlan Marri also exhibits a Mechaquartz movement and Hindu-Arabic high polished indexes. The timepiece is rendered even more special by the decagonal caseback with a circular brushed finish, which comes engraved with the Year of the Fiftieth logo.
Ressence Type 1 DX2
Ressence and Ahmed Seddiqi & Sons celebrate the UAE's Year of the Fifty with the release of the Type 1 DX2 - a limited edition of the Type 1 Slim with enlightening facets. Limited to 25 pieces and following in the footsteps of the Type 1 DXB, the Type 1 DX2 draws inspiration from Arabic geometric patterns creating unique light reflections and depths.
Vyntage x Undone UAE 50th Edition
A newly launched brand led by Mohammed Abdulmagied Seddiqi and his team, Vyntage depicts the accumulated and timeless wisdom from the past that laid the foundations for the future. Presenting Vyntage x Undone, a collaboration celebrating the UAE’s golden jubilee. Limited to 100 pieces, the 40mm mechanical-quartz hybrid flyback chronograph features a handsome vintage aesthetic sought after by watch collectors.
Oris Big Crown ProPilot Oasis
A symbol created to celebrate the UAE’s soaring achievements, the Big Crown ProPilot Oasis by Oris is function-based design at its best. Aimed at pilots who value the ProPilot’s cockpit-ready functionality and aesthetic, the Swiss-made Big Crown ProPilot Oasis features the Oris Calibre 115, a manual-wind mechanical watch movement with a 10-day power reserve. This luxurious mechanical masterpiece comes with a titanium case and bracelet, and also comes with an additional leather strap. To commemorate and celebrate the UAE on this historic occasion, the case back comes engraved with the Year of the Fiftieth logo.
Frederique Constant UAE 50th Edition
A symbol of passion, luxury and design as an homage to the UAE on its Year of the 50th, the limited edition Frederique Constant is exquisite and unparalleled in its essence. Featuring a highly polished 41mm titanium case, and bold numerals, this comes with an automatic movement and a rubber strap. The open caseback comes engraved with the Year of the Fiftieth logo to commemorate this significant time in history.
Aramedes UAE 50th Edition
The premiere of a new brand, ARAMEDES was founded to bring the subtle magic of classic timepieces into the digital age.
Celebrating the UAE Golden Jubilee with Ahmed Seddiqi & Sons, their watches are crafted with the first-ever Islamic complications. These classically designed timepieces feature three very special functions, made possible only through their unique combination of traditional mechanical watchmaking and advanced technology in an unprecedented way
Bell & Ross BR03-92 UAE 5OTH ANNIVERSARY
From the cockpit to the wrist, this limited edition timepiece – BR03-92 UAE 5OTH ANNIVERSARY – from Bell & Ross is witness to the myriad sky-high aspirations and accomplishments of the nation. Exhibiting the colours of the UAE flag, the black dial and the matte black, 42mm ceramic case symbolise the strength of mind. An anti-reflective sapphire crystal is embedded within the black-gold sunray dial with dark ruthenium satin-finished appliques. The 10 o’clock position is marked by the golden jubilee number of 50 to reinstate the milestone. To serve as further testament to this historic moment, the case back also comes engraved with the Year of the Fiftieth.
MB&F Year of the 50th
To celebrate a nation where the traditional meets the futuristic, MB&F, makers of beautifully sculptural watches, created a limited edition timepiece in honour of the Year of the 50th. Designed with intricate details, this pre-sold watch features a movement developed especially for MB&F by Stephen McDonnell, and the bespoke 14mm balance wheel comes with traditional regulating screws visible on top of the movement. The superlative hand finish lends it a 19th century aesthetic, while the internal angles, polished bevels, Geneva waves, and hand-engraving imparts a uniqueness and authenticity to the timepiece. The titanium case back also comes with a custom Year of the Fiftieth engraving.
Hublot UAE 50th Edition
Introducing the all new Hublot watch; an exceptional 33 mm timepiece stemming from meticulous workmanship that meets the aspirations of the modern day woman. The black MOP dial is complemented by the delicacy of its little details and dazzles in the elegance of a Diamond bezel. Powered by Quartz movement, and enclosed in a stunning Titanium case, this commemorative masterpiece with a unique Green Alligator strap. Limited to 50 pieces.