Tanzanian Recycled Glass Watch Sartory Billard SB04-E Shanga Unveiled

French luxury watch brand Sartory Billard has introduced its latest creation, the SB04-E Shanga, a limited edition timepiece that combines African craftsmanship, Swiss mechanics, and French design. This unique watch features a dial made from recycled glass sourced from Tanzania, which is transformed into a one-of-a-kind masterpiece. The SB04-E Shanga is a result of a collaboration between Sartory Billard, a Tanzanian artisanal workshop, and the Elewana Collection hotel group.

The SB04-E Shanga boasts a 39.5mm stainless steel case with a 10.2mm thickness and a 44mm lug-to-lug length, making it suitable for various wrist sizes. The watch features a blue lacquered crown with the Sartory Billard logo and is available in two versions: one with a blue crown and another with a crown set with tanzanite, a precious stone native to Tanzania. The watch is paired with a blue leather strap and features a 100-meter water resistance, making it suitable for everyday wear and occasional exposure to water.

The dial of the SB04-E Shanga is where the watch truly stands out. Made from recycled glass, it is crafted in the workshops of Shanga in Arusha, Tanzania. The artisans collect discarded bottles from Elewana Collection establishments, melt the glass, and color it using cobalt oxides. The glass is then folded and mixed manually to create a deep blue hue with unique swirls, gradients, and transparency variations. Each dial has a distinct visual structure, making every watch a one-of-a-kind piece.

The SB04-E Shanga is powered by the La Joux-Perret G101A automatic Swiss movement, which provides 68 hours of autonomy. This movement is part of the G100 family, known for its reliability and precision. The watch features hands inspired by traditional Maasai spears and numerals that replicate the handwritten scripts of the project's participants, including Shanga artisans. The case back features the logo of the Tanzanian workshop and the inscription "Be kind · Recycle," highlighting the watch's eco-friendly origins.

Sartory Billard has announced that the SB04-E Shanga will be produced in a limited edition of 100 pieces, individually numbered and priced at €4,800 before taxes. The brand will donate €1,000 from each sale to the Shanga workshop, supporting its development, equipment, and artisan training. The watch is expected to be delivered within two weeks of ordering, subject to availability.

The SB04-E Shanga is a testament to the possibilities of sustainable luxury watchmaking. By combining recycled materials, African craftsmanship, and Swiss mechanics, Sartory Billard has created a truly unique timepiece. The watch's eco-friendly features and charitable component make it a compelling choice for collectors and environmentally conscious consumers.

The SB04-E Shanga is available in two versions, with the tanzanite-set crown option available in very limited quantities. Interested buyers can reserve their watch directly with Sartory Billard. With its unique blend of African and European influences, the SB04-E Shanga is poised to appeal to watch enthusiasts looking for a truly distinctive timepiece.

Key points

• The SB04-E Shanga features a dial made from recycled Tanzanian glass, making each watch a one-of-a-kind piece.
• The watch is powered by the La Joux-Perret G101A automatic Swiss movement, providing 68 hours of autonomy.
• Sartory Billard will donate €1,000 from each sale to the Shanga workshop, supporting its development and artisan training.