First Look at the Arcanaut Arc II D'arc Roast
Yes, a Dial Made from Coffee
At Collective, we focus on independent brands that with strong points of view and a willingness to take risks. The Arc II D’Arc Roast Limited Edition from Arcanaut fits the bill, to say the least: A watch with a dial made from real coffee grounds, limited to just 33 pieces. This release combines unconventional materials with Scandinavian design principles, resulting in a unique timepiece that stands out in any collection.
A Dial Made from Coffee
Denmark has a strong coffee culture, and Arcanaut has incorporated that heritage into this watch. The dial is crafted from finely ground coffee beans, bound into a durable, UV-resistant composite. This material was first developed by co-founder James Thompson (aka Black Badger) in a 2020 collaboration with Bamford Watch Department and TAG Heuer, and has now been refined for Arcanaut. The result is a dial that carries subtle, organic textures, with each piece featuring its own unique patterning due to the natural variation of the coffee grounds.
Minimalist Design with Practical Features
The Arc II D’Arc Roast follows Arcanaut’s minimalist approach, with a 40.5mm blasted stainless steel case that provides a rugged yet refined appearance.
- Diameter: 40.5mm
- Lug-to-lug: 49mm
- Height: 13mm height (including the crystal)
The oxidized bronze-tone Grand Paw hands add warmth to the design, complementing the earthy tones of the dial. Aged radium LumiCast blocks on both the hands and dial ensure excellent visibility in low-light conditions. The case back features Arcanaut’s proprietary Glowpatch design with an engraved and luminous coffee cup graphic, reinforcing the theme of the watch in an understated yet playful way.
Built for Collectors Looking for Something Different
Arcanaut attracts collectors who want unique materials and design. The D’Arc Roast is aimed at those who appreciate originality and independent craftsmanship. By integrating experimental materials and pushing the boundaries of traditional watchmaking, Arcanaut continues to appeal to enthusiasts who seek something beyond mass-market offerings. The watch is powered by the Soprod M100 Swiss automatic movement, ensuring reliability and servicability.
Pricing & Availability
Limited to 33 pieces, the Arc II D’Arc Roast is priced at $4,400. Orders are being taken now, with deliveries set to begin in approximately eight weeks. Given its limited nature (33 pieces) and the growing demand for Arcanaut’s innovative releases, availability may be short-lived.
The Arc II D’Arc Roast is available for pre-order now at collectivehorology.com. As always, thanks for reading and supporting independent watchmaking.