The mysterious allure of the untamable animals that populate our globe have long held a certain fascination for humanity, with everyone from jewellers and fashion maisons to artists and scientists all equally in thrall. And the world of haute horology is no different. Indeed many renowned watchmakers have all dedicated a segment of their oeuvre solely to animal-themed watches. From Year of the Pig-inspired creations to wild cat-dominated designs are some of the latest standouts that caught our eye.

Jaquet Droz – Petite Heure Minute Pig

Jaquet Droz is introducing an element of handcraftsmanship with its Petite Heure Minute Pig a true homage to the brand’s renowned skill at the ‘Art of Miniature Painting’. Housed in an attractive red gold case, the star of the show here is undoubtedly a hand-engraved and hand-patinated pig applique. Limited to a release of just 28 pieces, this collector’s-item-in-the-making seems the perfect wrist-sized memento of the Year of the Pig.

Blancpain – Traditional Chinese Calendar

Another timepiece celebrating the Lunar New Year’s new zodiac sign is Blancpain in the form of its Traditional Chinese Calendar. Building on its reputation for producing precision engineered perpetual calendar movements, this newest limited-edition watch features a lunisolar calendar inspired by the classical Chinese timekeeping tradition, alongside a more standard Gregorian date display. With the two time-division systems wholly unalike, it took the marque five years of research to develop a movement capable of measuring both calendars – a true haute horological feat that solidifies its position in our round-up of must-have animal-themed watches.

Vacheron Constantin – Les Cabinotiers Wild Panda

Swiss watchmaker Vacheron Constantin has also sought inspiration from the pantheon of Chinese wildlife for its Les Cabinotiers Wild Panda. Part of the maison’s exclusive one-off “Mécaniques Sauvages” range, in this instance, the eponymous panda and bamboo forest surround it have been carefully handcrafted using long-lauded technique of wood marquetry. With more than 300 individually hand-cut wood veneers of various shapes making up its vibrant fascia, its design is a true ode to the artisanal arts.

Hermès – Arceau Awooooo

Another must-have in our list of animal-themed watches is the latest iteration of Hermès’ iconic Arceau watch – the Arceau Awooooo. As its name suggests, the dominant animal motif here is the majestic white wolf that encompasses the majority of its 41mm fascia. Set under a night sky punctuated with a crescent moon and twinkling stars, the entire dial is the product of an intricate process of meticulous enamel work, polishing, painting and firing. Fitted with a white gold case and matte graphite alligator leather straps, just eight pieces will ever be made.