The Sea & Cliff (海水江崖纹) pattern is one of the most iconic motifs in traditional Chinese art, flourishing during the Ming and Qing dynasties. Often adorning imperial robes and artifacts, it combined surging waves, towering cliffs, clouds, and mythical creatures — symbolizing the harmony of heaven and earth and the enduring stability of the empire.

• The sea represented vastness, the source of life, and inclusiveness.

• The cliffs stood for permanence and resilience, embodying foundations as solid as rock.

Together, Sea & Cliff became a symbol of imperial authority, dynastic continuity, and unshakable foundations.

Artistic and Aesthetic Value

This motif often appeared alongside dragons, phoenixes, and other auspicious beings, forming a complete visual language of majesty. The surging motion of the waves contrasted with the stillness of the cliffs, reflecting the Chinese philosophical pursuit of balance between movement and stillness, softness and strength.

Halcyon’s Reinterpretation and Spiritual Essence

In the Halcyon Origin · Sea & Cliff design, this imagery is distilled onto the porcelain dial. Waves in motion and cliffs in stillness together evoke the eternal balance of power and serenity.

On the wrist, it is not only a striking work of art, but also a spiritual reminder: to face life’s tides with steadfastness like the cliffs, and embrace the world with vastness like the sea.