It takes more than mere creativity to craft a visually appealing timepiece. In the case of the Nebula by Arnold & Son, it also takes science. It does not boast any high-tech gadgetry, if that’s what you’re thinking. Instead, the timepiece plays on the need of the human brain to notice symmetry to classify something as beautiful.

The intricate, openworked calibre A&S5101 movement is almost symmetrically perfect from both the front and the back of the case. The placement of each gear and wheel is the result of meticulous calculations and the result is a neat and visually appealing dial. The timepiece also boasts 10 movement bridges that support the intricate gears. The Nebula is in fact designed from the ground up and has two mainspring barrels at 11 o’clock and 1 o’clock to balance the symmetry in the timepiece. The small seconds indicator and balance wheel at 7 o’clock and 5 o’clock perform the same aesthetic function. It is all about symmetry, obviously.

The Nebula drives its names from the astronomical term used to describe a cloud of cosmic gas and dust. Like the nebula, the timepiece’s bridges span out from the center of the dial. Seven triangular skeletonized bridges whose polished edges sit around the perimeter of the dial and radiate inwards to the middle.

The Nebula’s A&S5101 calibre movement is just as impressive caseback-side, with the hand-finished movement and skeletonized, chamfered main plate. It also shows off the solid 18K gold chatons on the balance wheel and gears with polished chamfers. Arnold & Son’s Nebula is available in a stainless steel or red-gold case.

Specs

• Dimensions: 41.5mm
• Functions: Hours, minutes, small seconds
• Power Reserve: 90 hours
• Movement: Hand-wound Calibre A&S 5101
• Material: Stainless Steel or 18K Red Gold
• Water resistance: 30 meters
• Strap: Hand-stitched black alligator leather or hand-aged anthracite calf leather