Introducing: The Venezianico Arsenale Calendario
It’s been a big week here in Geneva, but we’re not done yet! Venezianico, the Venice-based brand, has brought a new take on its popular integrated-bracelet model, the Arsenale. Until now, there have been several options for case materials, dial composition, and a choice of two or three hands. Now, for the first time, we are getting complicated references. The Arsenale Calendario is here, and we think it’s a great addition.
Sporty integrated-bracelet watches continue to be popular among collectors and everyday buyers. Indeed, the blend of utility and elegance makes them a go-to choice for many. Case in point, just the other night in Geneva, we went for a pizza, and the owner was wearing a Tissot PRX. This style is no longer just for the likes of AP, Patek, and Vacheron. In 2024, Venezianico entered the fray with its Arsenale, an approachable, high-quality take on the sub-genre. Since then, the small company has added numerous variants, but with the new Arsenale Calendario, it marks the first time for a complicated version.
The Venezianico Arsenale Calendario
The latest Venezianico comes to us in a familiar 40mm by 44mm stainless steel case with the brand’s signature Canova-style steel bracelet and push-button butterfly clasp. Due to the addition of a complicated movement, the case is now 9.6mm thick, excluding the domed sapphire crystal. Two versions are part of the launch. Blue of violet sunburst dials each feature sub-dials with a concentric pattern. We’ll come to the additional details shortly. Additionally, the watches have a 50m water resistance rating.
A calendar dial with a slight twist
In light of the additional complications, Venezianico has retained the familiar traits of the non-complicated models on the Arsenale Calendario. The reeded bezel, skeletonized dagger hands, applied logo, and subtle applied indexes all remain. After this, things get interesting! Essentially, the dial is split into four quadrants. At the top, an arc-shaped display reports on power reserve. On the left, a sub-dial shows the day of the week. The rightmost sub-dial shows the month, a function set using the pusher at 2 o’clock.
A small white-on-black date wheel peers through a circular aperture at the 4:30 position . The bottom display is where Venezianico has added some visual differentiation for a day/night indicator. Two small screws are used to mount a sapphire lens. For the open portion above the lens, the disc displays the current setting. The idea of using a transparent lens is to pictorially represent progress into the day or night. It’s a nice touch of creativity and is a refreshing alternative to a 24-hour display.
Inside: the Miyota 9100
The Arsenale Calendario has an engraved case back showing Venetian canals. While ridged edges hint at a screw-in closure, the cover is actually fastened with six small screws. Inside, Venezianico has opted for the automatic Miyota 9100. The 5.52mm-thick movement has a 40-hour power reserve and runs at 28,800 vibrations per hour. Operating the movement is relatively simple. After pulling the crown out one stop, the user can adjust the date and day by turning it in opposite directions. The day/night indicator automatically adjusts. Additionally, the movement offers manual winding and hacking seconds.
Final thoughts on the Arsenale Calendario
I’ve stated before that some brands fumble when trying to add complications and details to an otherwise clean two- or three-hand model. That’s not the case with the Arsenale Calendario. Yes, the dial displays a lot of information, but its clean surface, restraint in terms of colors, and proper proportions for all the details have resulted in a legible watch. Frankly, this bodes well for what we hope will be more references, such as a chronograph. Regarding pricing, Venezianico has kept this watch reasonable at €1,200 or US$1,400. At roughly €500 more than non-complicated models, it feels like a fair increase for the additional complication. Let us know your thoughts on the first new iteration of the Arsenale, and feel free to visit the official Venezianico website for more details.
