Racing into the past with the Atelier Jalaper AJ-003

For a very long time, horology and car racing have had a symbiotic relationship... Belgium-based Atelier Jalaper goes one step further, with their latest release, the AJ-003, featuring dials made from the bonnet of a 1962 Jaguar E-Type Semi-Lightweight — a unique and elegant way to bridge the gap between these two worlds.

The case

The entirety of the Atelier Jalaper AJ-003 is inspired by the E-Type... alternation of vertical and horizontal brushing to highlight its shape.

Moreover, the case of the AJ-003 comes with a few Easter eggs... sapphire crystal on top and mineral one in the back.

The dial

The dial is of course where it’s at... the brand got in touch with the owner of the car — licence plate 1480 WK — to salvage the bonnet.

The giant piece of aluminium was then treated... the design of the dial was inspired by the E-Type’s iconic Smiths speedometers.

The vertical brushing on both versions is quite noticeable... the license plate of the car is indicated below the pinion.

The strap

Both versions of the Atelier Jalaper AJ-003 come with thick perforated rally-style black leather straps... They’re entirely thematic and suit the AJ-003 well.

The movement

A watch of this caliber for which a lot of work was invested to create the dials is equipped with a chronometer-certified Sellita SW300-1 b... skeletonized, gold-plated custom rotor.

Atelier Jalaper AJ-003 pricing and availability

Both versions of the Atelier Jalaper AJ-003 are currently available for pre-order directly from the brand’s website. Atelier Jalaper is making 200 numbered pieces of each version (400 total) with an estimated delivery date of August 2025. Price: €2,400 / US$2,500 / £2,000 / A$3,950

Brand	Atelier Jalaper
Model	AJ-003
Case Dimensions	39mm (D) x 11.5mm (T) x 45.55mm (LTL)
Case Material	316L stainless steel
Water Resistance	50 metres
Crystal(s)	Sapphire front, mineral glass back
Dial	Anodised grey or black aluminium sourced from a 1962 Jaguar E-Type Semi-Lightweight
Lug Width	20mm
Strap	Perforated rally-style leather strap, pin buckle
Movement	Sellita SW300-1 b, automatic, COSC
Power Reserve	56 hours
Functions	Hours, minutes, seconds
Availability	Available for pre-order, estimated delivery August 2025
Price	€2,400 US$2,500 £2,000 A$3,950

Made in partnership with Atelier Jalaper. However, the opinions expressed in this article are our own in accordance with our Editorial Policy.

For more information and to explore models, see the complete AJ-003 collection on our website.