Horsepower, but make it horology. Let’s break down the 2026 Lunar New Year watch releases.
2026 ushers in the Lunar New Year of the Horse, a symbol long associated with speed, strength, and freedom. It’s a theme that naturally resonates with watchmaking, and this year, brands across the spectrum have embraced it with some of their most imaginative and finely crafted Lunar New Year releases to date.
IWC sets the stage with a refined and understated celebration. The Portugieser Automatic 42 Year of the Horse pairs a deep burgundy dial with a solid gold rotor shaped like a galloping horse, visible through the sapphire caseback. It’s a quiet nod and classic in execution, yet unmistakably festive for those who know just where to look.
TAG Heuer pivots to a more sporty direction with its Carrera Chronograph Year of the Horse. Limited to just 250 pieces, the watch blends the brand’s racing identity with humble Lunar New Year symbolism. Red accents bring a sense of energy, while the Chinese character for “horse” replaces the sub-dial at nine o’clock, creating a bold and modern interpretation of the theme.
Jaeger-LeCoultre leans into creative artistry and traditional craftsmanship. The Reverso Tribute Enamel Horse features a hand-engraved horse motif, finished in grand feu enamel. Each piece is exquisitely executed, transforming the Reverso’s iconic case into a dynamic canvas for Métiers d’Art.
Vacheron Constantin takes that watchmaking even further with its Métiers d’Art Year of the Horse editions. Produced in extremely limited numbers, these watches feature sculpted, relief-engraved horses set against richly detailed enamel backgrounds. They stand as a reminder of why Vacheron remains one of the true guardians of traditional watchmaking techniques.
Longines intertwines its history with equestrian sport and this year’s Zodiac animal through the Master Collection Year of the Horse. This collection is limited to 2,026 pieces. The watch features a gradient red sunray dial and a special horse-engraved rotor, offering a beautiful balance of heritage, symbolism, and everyday wearability.
Hublot brings bold modern energy to the celebration. The Spirit of Big Bang Year of the Horse combines frosted carbon, gold accents, and intricate marquetry to create a dynamic horse motif full of motion and depth. With just 88 pieces worldwide, it’s a statement piece and a new collector’s piece in every sense.
At the high-horology end of the spectrum, Blancpain’s Villeret Calendrier Chinois Traditionnel stands out for its technical ambition. By integrating the full Chinese calendar into a beautifully executed enamel dial, Blancpain delivers one of the most complex and intellectually impressive Lunar New Year watches ever produced.
Piaget approaches the theme from a more artistic angle with the Altiplano Zodiac Horse. Cloisonné enamel and gem-set detailing come together in an ultra-thin case, resulting in a watch that feels as much like a miniature sculpture as a timekeeper.
Finally, Dior offers a poetic and dreamlike interpretation with the Grand Soir Year of the Horse. Florals, gemstones, and mother-of-pearl combine to create a design that’s expressive, ornamental, and unmistakably Dior.
