Franck Muller Celebrates the Art of Damascus Steel with the Vanguard Damascus Collection

Inspired by the ancient craftsmanship behind Samurai swords, the Damascus collection showcases Franck Muller’s expertise in transforming a legendary material into contemporary watchmaking creations.

Damascus steel traces its origins to the ancient city of Damascus, where the first blades were forged and later recognised globally for their exceptional strength and distinctive patterns.

At the heart of the Vanguard Damascus collection is a sophisticated alloy developed to meet the demanding requirements of fine watchmaking. Crafted from austenitic, non-magnetic stainless steel, the material allows the movement to perform without interference while offering exceptional resistance to shocks. Produced through a patented process that combines two different steel powders layered together, the resulting Damascus steel is both highly durable and remarkably pure.

The material’s unique character is revealed through a specialised process mastered entirely in-house by Franck Muller. Once immersed in an acid bath (ten minutes for the case and five minutes for the dial), the distinctive layered patterns emerge naturally across the surface, creating intricate motifs that are unique to each individual timepiece.

The collection is available in a three-hand model, as well as a Vanguard Damascus Racing variation, which embodies the perfect balance between the technical innovation of Damascus steel and the refined aesthetics of the Vanguard Racing Skeleton.
Tantalisingly openworked, the Vanguard Damacus Racing is skeletonised to a refined depth, revealing elaborate architecture and complex inner workings, with numerals individually cut from Damascus steel. Within its sleek Damascus steel case lies an intricately skeletonised date disc, stripped down to bold angular outlines of single numerals, alongside a 60-second counter subdial at its centre.

Both models are completed with a black grosgrain leather strap chosen to complement the distinctive textures and visual depth of the Damascus steel. Every detail has been meticulously considered, including the buckle, also crafted from Damascus steel, ensuring a cohesive and uncompromising design throughout.

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