Recognizably 17 – with a little extra

The MING 17.03 retains all of the design cues that define the 17 series unique: three-part textured and sapphire dials with ‘floating’ numerals; flared lugs; circular symmetry and a classically proportioned case. However, recognizing the desire for something a little sportier, the case is now machined from grade 2 titanium, with a matching grade 2 titanium bracelet.

A versatile companion

We challenged ourselves to define the essentials we sought in a travel companion, and narrowed it down to an easily adjustable second timezone; versatility of style to fit a wide variety of settings and match a range of attire, and grab-and-go ease. The 17.03 therefore adds a second 24-hour indicator integrated into the dial and marked by a luminous star, and the Sellita SW330-1 automatic movement. The second timezone can be adjusted independent of the main (local) time.

Machined entirely in grade 2 titanium, and At 38mm diameter it is a light, comfortable watch. The extends to our bracelet, where nearly every element is independently articulated for conformity with a wide variety of wrist shapes, and of a thickness that perfectly balances the weight of the watch head. On a properly adjusted bracelet, the 17.03 is one of the most comfortable watches we’ve ever worn. Additionally, we also include two nubuck straps with every MING 17.03. We have also retained the rigid case construction without spacer rings, and water resistance remains at 100m.

Reengineered to a higher level

Though the 17.03 appears to be a very close relative of the 17.01, we have in fact completely re-examined and re-engineered every single element of the watch and upgraded all components. The hands and dial markings now have a much thicker fill of Super-LumiNova C1; a five-layer antireflective coating is applied to both sides of the sapphire crystal and the lugs have been reprofiled and lengthened. This allows us to accommodate one of the features we’re very proud of: a quick release titanium bracelet – with straight pins – and also quick release straps, with curved pins.

We recognize that no matter how many straps we offer, every collector desires variety and individualization – and so, in addition to our signature curved end straps, the 17.03 can now accommodate standard 20mm straight end straps.

Even the packaging has not escaped our attention: we are now using smaller, more environmentally friendly external packaging and a handmade calf leather pouch lined with microfiber ultrasuede from Thirtyfour Bespoke in Kuala Lumpur. It can accommodate one watch on a bracelet or two watches on straps, together with spare straps, the included bracelet/ springbar tool, and warranty card.