The Ming 57.04 Phoenix: A Destro Monopusher Chronograph with a Restrained Elegance
The Evolution of Ming Watches: A Brand That Never Ceases to Amaze
Since its debut in 2017, the Horologer Ming brand has been making waves in the watchmaking world with its innovative designs and strong identity. With over 75 references in its catalogue, the brand has consistently evolved, introducing new and exciting models like the 5th generation design, the Ming 57.04 Iris, and the sleek Ming 56.00 Starfield. But here's where it gets interesting: the brand quickly realized that the 100 pieces produced for the monopusher chronograph were not enough, and they started preparing the next edition, the Ming 57.04 Phoenix.
A Polarizing Watch: The Ming 57.04 Iris
The Ming 57.04 Iris was a polarizing watch, with its daring design and flamboyant peacock-like, color-shifting dial that changed from turquoise to purple, green, or orange depending on the light. But now, the brand has returned with a more restrained attire for the 57.04, without changing the recipe drastically.
A Restrained Elegance: The Ming 57.04 Phoenix
The Ming 57.04 Phoenix is a monopusher chronograph with a more subdued dial, featuring a classic sunray-brushed anthracite grey color. But through the newly-shaped cutouts, you can still see the baseplate treated with the same color-shifting multiphasic coating seen on the Iris. The sub-dial has also been redesigned, and all the elements are coated in Ming's luminous Polar White and Super-LumiNova X1.
Technical Specifications
The technical base remains identical, with a bold destro monopusher chronograph concept and a case featuring dramatic lugs. Measuring 40mm in diameter, 11.85mm in thickness, and 47.8mm lug-to-lug, it is mostly characterized by its sculptural multi-piece stepped lugs, as a modern tribute to Art Deco, with a complex, unconventional case construction. No fewer than 9 separate pieces are required for the lugs alone.
A Unique Movement: Sellita for MING Calibre SW562.M1
Inside the case is the uniquely configured Sellita for MING Calibre SW562.M1, a variation of the SW500, itself based on the architecture of the Valjoux 7750. Functions include hours, minutes, central chronograph seconds, and a 30-minute counter at 6 o'clock, with a clean, no-date layout. The movement beats at 28,800 vibrations/hour, and when fully wound, it offers a 60-hour power reserve. The movement is now mostly rhodium-plated with an anthracite three-quarter plate.
Availability and Pricing
The Ming 57.04 Phoenix Monopusher Chronograph will be available via www.ming.watch or authorized retailers, and priced at CHF 6,250 on a grey FKM rubber strap or CHF 7,250 on the brand's Polymesh 3D printed titanium bracelet. 150 pieces will be produced in 2026.
A Thought-Provoking Question
What do you think about the restrained elegance of the Ming 57.04 Phoenix? Do you agree or disagree with the brand's decision to tone down the flamboyance of the Iris? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
