Ming made its debut with the affordable and well received 17.01 – which cost only US$900 – later revived as the 17.03 for the brand’s anniversary. Both models were limited editions, but popular enough that Ming has just unveiled the 17.06, which is essentially an improved version of the 17.01.

The basics like the case size and movement are the same, but several details have been upgraded. To be produced in limited numbers each year, the 17.06 retains the styling of the original model, but incorporates subtle design tweaks as well as more substantial construction changes.

The 17.06 retains the raised, luminous hour track that’s a Ming signature

The bezel, for instance, is now secured by screws from inside the case, making removal for polishing easier. And the hands also sit closer to the crystal.

Notably, the 17.06 is the first serially produced Ming wristwatch to have a stainless steel case. According to the brand, this resulted from the steel prototypes of the 17.06 being particularly well-liked by the brand’s founders.

The 17.06 is available in two guises, each priced at slightly more than the original 17.01. Both are powered by an ETA 2824-2 “top grade” that’s regulated in five positions.

The 17.06 Copper has a copper-tone dial with an engraved motif, matched with a case with alternating brushed and polished surfaces. It’ll be limited to 300 pieces a year.

The 17.06 Monolith is all black – the dial is matte black while the case is sandblasted to create a grained surface that is then coated with dark grey diamond-like carbon (DLC). Only 150 will be made each year.

Key facts and price

Diameter: 38mm
Height: 10mm
Material: Stainless steel
Water resistance: 100m

Movement: ETA 2824-2 “top grade”
Functions: Hours, minutes, seconds
Winding: Automatic
Frequency: 28,800bph, or 4Hz
Power reserve: 38 hours

Strap: Calfskin strap with pin buckle

Price: 1250 Swiss francs for the 17.06 Copper, 1500 francs for the Monolith

Both 17.06 watches will be available starting 1pm GMT, September 19, 2019, directly from Ming.