More photos
In a unique homage to Leonardo da Vinci, known for his ability to write and draw backward, Swiss watchmaker Col&MacArthur has introduced the Leonardo 1519 watch, which defies the traditional concept of timekeeping...
With hands moving counterclockwise, this model symbolizes the innovative spirit of the Renaissance master, introducing users to a world of alternative perspectives.
The reverse movement of this watch is inspired by the natural movement of shadows on a sundial in the Northern Hemisphere, which shaped the direction of mechanical clocks. Col&MacArthur poses the intriguing question: What would clocks look like if they were first developed in the Southern Hemisphere, where shadows move in the opposite direction? This conceptual idea, combined with respect for Da Vinci's work, makes the Leonardo 1519 not just a timepiece but an artistic manifesto.
Every detail of the Leonardo 1519 watch pays tribute to the life and work of the great Renaissance artist. On the dial, elements such as the Vitruvian Man symbolize Da Vinci's studies on human body proportions, and details from his Battle of Anghiari sketch showcase his artistic virtuosity. Additionally, the Fibonacci sequence is incorporated, acknowledging his application of mathematical principles to natural patterns. These elements merge art, science, and mathematics—the fields in which Da Vinci excelled.
The Leonardo 1519 is available in multiple versions to satisfy different user preferences. The Codex Reversed uses a Ronda quartz mechanism and offers a true "backward" time reading, while the Codex Classic and Meccanica Classic combine conventional time reading with the same attention to detail.
All models are made from stainless steel, with sapphire crystal and a two-year warranty. Special attention is drawn to the Meccanica Classic, with an automatic Miyota movement visible through the transparent case. This model is limited to 1,519 pieces, symbolizing the year of Da Vinci's death, making it a true collector's treasure. The "elevato" design of the dial plays with light and shadow, evoking Da Vinci’s studies of nature.
Col&MacArthur is known for watches that link historical elements with modern design, including materials such as fragments of the Berlin Wall and moon dust. With the Leonardo 1519 model, the brand continues this tradition, creating a watch that is not just a timekeeping instrument but a reason to reflect on history, art, and innovation.
The Leonardo 1519 invites a different perspective on time—just as Da Vinci, through his work, invited a different perspective on the world. This watch is more than an accessory; it is wearable art, a tribute to a man whose curiosity changed the world and inspired generations.
