Selten and Watch Ho & Co Collaborate on the Jui: A CNC-Engraved Tahitian Mother of Pearl Masterpiece for Collectors
Selten has once again demonstrated its distinct position within the independent watchmaking world earlier this year with the release of its Grand Feu Enamel series. This collection stands out for its deeply engraved and vividly colorful dials, created using the traditional enameling process. The series highlights Selten's ongoing commitment to artistry and craftsmanship, showcasing the brand’s ability to fuse technical precision with aesthetic vision.
Known for using unique materials and producing highly intricate dials, Selten is flourishing at a time when collectors are increasingly drawn to watches that offer something bold, distinctive, and visually captivating. For someone like me, a self-proclaimed Tahitian mother-of-pearl enthusiast (if anyone is seeking support groups, feel free to DM me), their latest collaboration with the Hong Kong-based watch collector community Watch Ho & Co immediately caught my attention.
The new model, named Jui , carries profound meaning in its name: "Jui" translates to “to meet” or “to gather” in Chinese. This concept is reflected not only in the watch’s design but also in the philosophy of fostering connections between the brand and its collector community. The watch’s standout feature is its Tahitian mother-of-pearl dial, intricately engraved via CNC machining to produce an elaborate geometric pattern. According to Selten, the design draws inspiration from ancient Chinese body armor. Historically, these motifs were used for both functional and symbolic purposes, representing protection, strength, and resilience. Over time, these patterns evolved into symbols of unity and security. In the context of the Jui watch, Selten repurposes these motifs as a metaphor for the close bonds that develop within watch collecting communities. The ethos of Watch Ho & Co is reinforced through the playful engraving on the caseback that reads “Good Vibes Only”, a whimsical yet meaningful nod to the positive energy that connects collectors and enthusiasts alike.
In the world of horology, it’s hardly unusual for brands to embed stories or cultural references within dial designs. Grand Seiko, for example, has become synonymous with expressing nature, micro-seasons, and subtle shifts in the environment through meticulously textured dials. While these narratives enrich the watch’s conceptual value, for most owners, the aesthetic appeal of the dial remains the primary driver of purchase decisions. Selten understands this principle intuitively. The Jui is strikingly attractive on its own merits, irrespective of its backstory. The CNC guilloché technique used here deserves special attention. While purists may initially balk at the idea of machine engraving over handcrafting, this approach is perfectly suited for Tahitian mother-of-pearl. CNC allows for near-perfect repetition of intricate designs, preserves the delicate material, and keeps the watch price accessible. At a retail price of $1,099, the Jui balances craftsmanship, uniqueness, and approachability in a way few contemporary independent watches can.
Tahitian mother-of-pearl itself adds immeasurable charm and depth to the watch. Each dial naturally varies in color, luster, and texture, ensuring that every Jui is genuinely one-of-a-kind. CNC engraving on such a fragile surface requires exceptional precision. Selten’s team spent countless hours refining the process to avoid any compromise to the material's integrity while achieving perfectly defined geometric motifs. The result is a stunning fusion of natural beauty and modern technological innovation. This marriage of traditional artisanal materials with contemporary precision engraving elevates the watch from a functional timepiece to a miniature work of art.
The design details are equally thoughtful. While the dial showcases a complex geometric pattern, the layout remains clear and legible. A minimalist minute track encircles the dial, and skeletonized hands enhance readability without obstructing the view of the guilloché. This approach demonstrates Selten’s commitment to both aesthetic and functional design: the dial can captivate as a piece of art, yet it still fulfills its primary purpose—telling time.
The watch’s case measures 39mm in diameter and 9.95mm in height, including the sapphire crystal. The modest dimensions make it versatile and comfortable for daily wear. The stainless steel case combines brushed and polished finishes, providing understated elegance without overwhelming the wrist. Inside, the Jui houses a Miyota 9039 automatic movement with a custom engraved rotor. Renowned for its reliability and robust performance, the Miyota 9039 offers smooth winding and accurate timekeeping. The exhibition caseback showcases the beautifully finished rotor, letting the wearer appreciate the artistry and engineering of the movement. Water resistance of 5 ATM ensures the watch can withstand everyday splashes and brief exposure to water, while the accompanying tan leather strap adds comfort and a warm visual contrast to the shimmering mother-of-pearl dial.
From a collector’s perspective, the Jui carries significant appeal. The watch is available as a limited-time edition, and once the ordering window closes, it will not be offered again. In the current market, collectors increasingly seek unique materials, limited editions, and watches with meaningful backstories. Selten’s approach—offering a CNC-engraved Tahitian mother-of-pearl dial at a competitive price—addresses this demand directly. It introduces younger enthusiasts and first-time collectors to the independent watchmaking world, lowering the barrier to entry while providing a watch that is genuinely distinctive and collectible.
The collaboration between Selten and Watch Ho & Co also reflects a broader trend in the watch industry: the convergence of brands with collector communities. In this model, watches transcend their role as mere timekeeping instruments, becoming vehicles for shared cultural experiences and social engagement. The armor-inspired geometric motifs and the “Good Vibes Only” engraving exemplify how small design details can embody community values. This strategy fosters emotional connections between the brand and its customers, strengthening loyalty and enhancing the watch’s significance beyond its material and functional qualities.
On a broader level, the Jui embodies several key trends in contemporary independent watchmaking. First, it emphasizes innovation in materials and techniques. CNC technology allows Selten to apply intricate guilloché patterns to delicate mother-of-pearl dials without compromising structural integrity. Second, the watch prioritizes distinctive visual design and recognizability. Third, through limited editions and community collaboration, Selten increases both the emotional and investment value of its watches. Unlike traditional high-end watches that often compete through complex mechanical complications, Selten focuses on aesthetics, material innovation, and storytelling. This strategy enables the brand to carve a niche in the competitive independent watchmaking sector.
Wearing the Jui is an experience in itself. The Tahitian mother-of-pearl dial shimmers and changes with every movement of the wrist, creating a dynamic play of light and color that makes the watch feel alive. The skeletonized hands float over the dial, preserving readability while enhancing the sense of depth. The combination of case and strap ensures a comfortable fit, and the understated elegance of the design allows the watch to stand out without drawing excessive attention. For collectors and enthusiasts alike, the Jui offers a perfect blend of aesthetics, technical achievement, and emotional resonance.
In summary, Selten’s Jui is more than just a visually captivating watch; it is a work of art that embodies culture, craftsmanship, and community spirit. By combining Tahitian mother-of-pearl with CNC guilloché, the watch merges ancient inspiration with modern technology. Through limited-edition availability and community collaboration, it fosters emotional and collectible value. With meticulous attention to detail, comfort, and functional reliability, the Jui succeeds in balancing artistry and practicality. It is a watch for those who appreciate beauty, storytelling, and the experience of owning something unique. For anyone looking to explore independent watchmaking through a piece that is as meaningful as it is beautiful, the Jui is an exceptional choice.
The Jui is currently available for pre-order, with expected delivery within one to three months. Once the ordering window closes, it will not be offered again. More information can be found on the Selten official website.