On February 2, AEGAON introduced a new wristwatch collection, AEGAON “Ilmarine” LTD, dedicated to the 108th anniversary of the Republic of Estonia. The collection consists of four watches featuring Estonian motifs, with dials adorned with the three lions and the message inspired by the lyrics of Alo Mattiisen. The watches are available exclusively for pre-order, with each model limited to just 300 pieces.
This marks the first time in 14 years that Estonian watchmaker AEGAON has released a ceremonial watch collection featuring national symbolism. According to designer Janno Roodi, interest in an Estonia-themed watch has existed for years. A blue-black-white tricolour version is not part of the collection and will not be produced; instead, customers can choose between blue, black, white, and rose gold motifs. The message “proud to be Estonian” on the dial is intended to convey an emotion that each wearer can feel and interpret in their own way.
“It’s that feeling you get, for example, when Ivo Linna sings ‘Eestlane olen ja eestlaseks jään,’ when Kristina Šmigun-Vähi won Olympic gold, or when the Estonian language was spoken in the animated series Family Guy,” lists Kristjan Rabi, co-founder of AEGAON, describing moments of pride in being Estonian.
For AEGAON, a model’s name has always been just as important as its design. The meaning of Ilmarine for Estonians has evolved over time — from a mythical creator of the sky and a successful industrial enterprise to a sharp line in the lyrics of an Ultima Thule song. Now, it is AEGAON’s turn to give the name its own form and meaning.
“Ilmarine and AEGAON are Estonian-language names that are readable worldwide. This watch is dedicated to all of us who are here, as well as to those who live farther away but remain connected to us through this shared feeling,” explained Kristjan Rabi.'
The AEGAON “Ilmarine” LTD is available exclusively for pre-order through the company’s online store and at its Tallinn flagship store at Rotermanni 7. A total of 300 pieces are produced for each colourway. All watches are individually numbered and come with a signed certificate.
Previously, the brand has successfully launched two limited-edition models through pre-sales: “Tenet,” inspired by Christopher Nolan’s thriller partially filmed in Estonia, and “Temptation III,” inspired by round-the-world sailor Uku Randmaa. Founded in 2012, AEGAON is Estonia’s first watch manufacturer, with its timepieces now reaching customers in more than 50 countries worldwide.