Lebois & Co, a venerable name in watchmaking history that has been revitalized under the stewardship of Dutch entrepreneur Tom van Wijlick, is continuing its trajectory of crafting classically styled timepieces imbued with a distinct vintage character. Following the successful introduction of its Heritage Small Seconds collection last year, which offered a compact dress watch series drawing inspiration from the brand’s mid-century archives, Lebois & Co is now expanding this line with two compelling new references: the Heritage Atelier Small Seconds Clous de Paris and the Heritage Atelier Small Seconds Stroopwafel. These latest creations, developed in collaboration with the esteemed Swiss dial specialist GT Cadrans, showcase an exceptional fusion of traditional craftsmanship and innovative design, celebrating both established horological motifs and a uniquely Dutch culinary icon.
A Tale of Two Dials: Precision Craftsmanship Meets Culinary Inspiration
The Heritage Atelier collection is defined by its meticulous attention to dial aesthetics, with the two new models representing distinct yet equally captivating approaches to decorative watchmaking.
The Enduring Elegance of Clous de Paris
The Heritage Atelier Small Seconds Clous de Paris represents a more traditional expression of decorative artistry. The "Clous de Paris" pattern, a cornerstone of classical watchmaking, is characterized by its intricate, repeating field of tiny pyramids that expertly capture and refract light, creating a mesmerizing visual depth. For this particular iteration, GT Cadrans has employed a precision CNC diamond-cutting process to meticulously recreate a guilloché-like pattern. This advanced technique ensures unparalleled accuracy and intricacy, mimicking the organic beauty of traditional hand-engraved guilloché dials.
Following the precise mechanical engraving, the dial undergoes a galvanic finishing process. A solution of 24-carat gold is applied, imbuing the dial with a warm, inviting rose-gold hue. This combination of precise mechanical work and a rich galvanic finish results in a dial that is both visually stunning and technically sophisticated. The light plays across the textured surface, highlighting the geometric precision of the pattern and lending the watch an air of understated luxury and timeless appeal. This approach demonstrates Lebois & Co’s commitment to upholding the highest standards of traditional watchmaking, even when utilizing modern manufacturing techniques.
The Sweet Surprise of the Stroopwafel Dial
In stark contrast to the classic elegance of the Clous de Paris, the Heritage Atelier Small Seconds Stroopwafel draws its inspiration from a much more unconventional, yet equally iconic, source: the beloved Dutch caramel-filled waffle, the stroopwafel. This playful yet sophisticated concept originated during the 2024 New York watch fairs. During the event, a tin of stroopwafels, brought by the Lebois & Co team to share with fellow watch enthusiasts and industry professionals, sparked a conversation about translating the waffle’s distinctive woven texture into a watch dial.
The answer to this creative challenge, as realized by Lebois & Co and GT Cadrans, is as delightful as the confectionery itself. The collaboration resulted in a finely laser-engraved pattern that remarkably replicates the familiar, intricate weave of a stroopwafel. This intricate engraving is then finished with a galvanic treatment in a warm, caramel tone, immediately evoking the characteristic color and texture of the Dutch treat.
Under magnification, the level of detail in the engraved surface is truly impressive. The subtle variations in depth and the precise rendering of the woven pattern create a dynamic interplay of light and shadow, animating the dial with every shift in perspective. While the concept is undeniably whimsical and rooted in a beloved cultural icon, the execution is carried out with the same seriousness and technical rigor applied to any traditional decorative dial. This fusion of a playful, culturally resonant idea with meticulous horological craftsmanship sets the Stroopwafel dial apart as a unique and memorable achievement in contemporary watch design.
A Harmonious Design Language: Shared Elements of Excellence
Despite their divergent dial inspirations, both new Lebois & Co Heritage Atelier models share a common design language that emphasizes classic proportions and refined detailing. The watches feature elegantly applied Breguet-style numerals, a nod to historical watchmaking elegance, and sophisticated leaf-shaped hands that contribute to the overall vintage aesthetic.
A key feature of the Heritage Small Seconds collection, and carried forward into the Atelier series, is the recessed small seconds sub-dial located at the 6 o’clock position. This functional element is elegantly integrated, maintaining the dial’s overall balance. A contrasting silver railroad-style minutes track encircles the dial, providing clear legibility and a subtle visual accent.
The case design adheres to the well-received proportions established by the previous Heritage Small Seconds collection. Measuring a versatile 37.8mm in diameter and 10.5mm in thickness, the watch strikes a balance between contemporary wearability and historical fidelity. The lug-to-lug measurement of 45.5mm ensures a comfortable fit on a variety of wrist sizes. The case is expertly crafted from 316L stainless steel, featuring a sophisticated combination of brushed and polished finishes that highlight its form. A double-domed sapphire crystal, offering excellent scratch resistance and clarity, protects the dial, while a transparent exhibition caseback allows a view of the intricate movement within. The watches are rated for 50 meters of water resistance, making them suitable for everyday wear.
The Heart of the Timepiece: A Certified Chronometer Movement
Powering these exquisite timepieces is the calibre LC-350. This automatic movement is a COSC-certified chronometer, signifying its exceptional accuracy and reliability. The LC-350 is based on the robust Sellita SW360-1 movement, which is the small seconds variant of the widely respected Sellita SW300 – itself a popular and highly regarded alternative to the ETA 2892.
The calibre LC-350 operates at a frequency of 28,800 vibrations per hour (4Hz) and boasts a substantial power reserve of 56 hours. This extended power reserve ensures that the watch will continue to function for over two days without needing to be wound, offering convenience for the wearer. The COSC certification, awarded after rigorous testing by the Contrôle Officiel Suisse des Chronomètres, guarantees that the movement meets the highest standards for precision and performance in various positions and temperatures. The decorated movement, visible through the sapphire caseback, adds another layer of appreciation for the watch’s intricate mechanics.
A Strategic Release: Controlled Production and Limited Ordering Window
Lebois & Co has adopted a deliberate and strategic approach to the release of the Heritage Atelier collection. The watches are being introduced as non-limited editions, reflecting the brand’s commitment to making its creations accessible to a wider audience. However, production will be carefully controlled to maintain exclusivity and ensure the highest quality standards.
Orders for the initial production run will open on July 27, 2026. This will be a single, 14-day ordering window, creating a sense of urgency and exclusivity around the launch. Deliveries are scheduled to commence in early 2027, allowing ample time for manufacturing and quality control. This phased approach, with a defined ordering period, is a common strategy in the watch industry to manage demand and production effectively while building anticipation among collectors and enthusiasts.
Pricing and Availability
The Lebois & Co Heritage Atelier Small Seconds Clous de Paris and the Heritage Atelier Small Seconds Stroopwafel are both priced at EUR 5,500 (inclusive of VAT). This pricing positions the watches within the competitive luxury watch market, offering significant value considering the quality of materials, the complexity of the dial finishing, and the COSC-certified chronometer movement.
For those interested in acquiring one of these unique timepieces or seeking further details, the official Lebois & Co website, www.lebois.com, will serve as the primary source of information and the platform for placing orders during the designated window.
Technical Specifications
Case:
- Diameter: 38.7mm (with crystal) / 8mm (excluding crystal)
- Thickness: 10.5mm (with crystal)
- Lug-to-lug: 45.5mm
- Material: 316L stainless steel, brushed and polished
- Crystal: Double-domed sapphire with anti-reflective coating
- Caseback: Screwed transparent exhibition caseback
- Water Resistance: 50 meters
Dial:
- Clous de Paris: CNC diamond-cut pattern with rose-gold galvanic finish
- Stroopwafel: Laser-engraved texture with caramel galvanic finish
- Applied Breguet-style numerals
- Polished leaf-shaped hands
- Recessed small seconds sub-dial at 6 o’clock
- Silver railroad-style minutes track
Movement:
- Calibre: LC-350 (base Sellita SW360-1)
- Type: Automatic
- Jewels: 31
- Certification: COSC-certified chronometer
- Power Reserve: 56 hours
- Frequency: 28,800 vibrations/hour (4Hz)
- Functions: Hours, minutes, small seconds
Strap:
- Multiple leather strap options available
- Pin buckle
References:
- 641.548 (Clous de Paris)
- 641.550 (Stroopwafel)
Availability:
- Orders open: July 27, 2026 (14-day window)
- Deliveries expected: Early 2027
Price:
- EUR 5,500 (including VAT)
The introduction of the Lebois & Co Heritage Atelier collection, with its distinctive Clous de Paris and Stroopwafel dials, signifies a bold and creative step for the revived brand. By masterfully blending traditional horological artistry with innovative design concepts and reliable chronometer movements, Lebois & Co is solidifying its position as a purveyor of high-quality, vintage-inspired timepieces that resonate with both seasoned collectors and new enthusiasts alike. The careful curation of the release strategy further underscores the brand’s commitment to delivering exceptional watches with a unique story to tell.
