Monthly Archives: August 2025

Piaget Altiplano Ultimate Concept Tourbillon and 910P

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Piaget unveils the ultimate expression of elegance and innovation with two new Altiplano models in gold and khaki green. Blending ultra-thin mechanical mastery with its jeweler’s artistry, Piaget introduces the Altiplano Ultimate Concept Tourbillon and the Altiplano 910P.

In an audacious new expression of its dual mastery of watchmaking and jewellery, Piaget proudly introduces two extraordinary timepieces that redefine the limits of elegance and innovation: the Altiplano Ultimate Concept Tourbillon and the Altiplano 910P.

Since the introduction of the legendary 9P movement in 1957, followed by the groundbreaking 12P in 1960, Piaget has set the standard for ultra-thin watchmaking. The Altiplano collection, born from this spirit of innovation, has become synonymous with mechanical elegance, technical audacity, and timeless purity. With these latest creations, Piaget writes a new chapter in this storied tradition, merging Maison’s horological expertise with its deep- rooted artistry in jewellery and design. Today, the Altiplano continues to break records and push boundaries, most recently with the Altiplano Ultimate Concept winning the prestigious Aiguille d’Or at the 2020 Grand Prix d’Horlogerie de Genève. These new Altiplano creations mark the pinnacle of a nearly seven-decade journey—an audacious evolution of a modern watchmaking icon that continues to redefine the boundaries of elegance, innovation, and craftsmanship.

THE ALTIPLANO ULTIMATE CONCEPT TOURBILLON: A SOPHISTICATED ULTRA-THIN UPDATE

Following the 2024 debut of the Altiplano Ultimate Concept Tourbillon 150th Limited Edition, Piaget introduces a new interpretation, distinguished by a sophisticated color palette of khaki green and yellow gold. The cobalt alloy case is still 2.0mm thin. As has always been the case at Piaget, technical innovation is not an end in itself, but a means to achieve aesthetic purity. Here, ultra-thin watchmaking becomes a vehicle for expressing something greater, a vision of elegance where mechanics disappear into design. In the AUC Tourbillon, there is no separation between case and movement – each element is engineered with the same uncompromising precision. The caseback itself serves as the movement’s mainplate, a feat of integration where not a single millimeter is wasted in Piaget’s relentless pursuit of ultra-thin perfection.

Crafted from cobalt alloy, a material known for its resistance, the 41.5 mm case of the AUC Tourbillon also adds a sapphire caseback for the first time, giving full view of the caliber 970P-UC. The caliber now features a variety of satin-brushed and polished finishes, bringing a more sophisticated, contemporary character to the piece. The caseback bears two engraved tributes: the brand’s motto, “Always do better than necessary”, and “La Côte-aux Fées,” the name of the historic village where Piaget was founded and continues to craft its most exceptional pieces. In a nod to the Altiplano’s design  heritage, Piaget has subtly reinterpreted its signature cross-shaped motif, historically seen on the Altiplano, now replicated across the ratchet wheel, balance wheel, and screw arrangement. This symbolic touch reinforces the connection between heritage and innovation. The AUC Tourbillon is paired on a matching khaki green calfskin strap featuring a newly developed pattern called “Polish Mesh” that evokes Piaget’s goldsmithing savoir-faire.

The AUC Tourbillon will now join the AUC and the Andy Warhol collection as part of Piaget’s Infinitely Personal program. Clients will be invited to co create their own AUC Tourbillon through a dedicated online configurator, working alongside sales advisors to select custom finishes, materials, and engravings, transforming this groundbreaking timepiece into a unique expression of personal style, true to a long-held ideal that each Piaget piece should be as unique as the individual wearing it. The Altiplano Ultimate Concept Tourbillon stands as the ultimate expression of Piaget’s identity – where the ingenuity of the watchmaker and the artistry of the jeweler converge in a singular, ultra-thin masterpiece designed for everyone.

THE ALTIPLANO 910P: AN ICON FOR EVERY DAY

Complementing the Tourbillon is the Altiplano 910P – a no less distinctive interpretation of Piaget’s ultra-thin legacy. Measuring just 4.3 mm thick, the 41 mm case is made for the first time in yellow gold, creating a radiant contrast with the rich khaki green dial and matching alligator strap. While Piaget’s goldsmithing is celebrated in its bracelets and High Jewellery, here it seamlessly intertwines with the Maison’s other great triumph—ultra-thin watchmaking—to create a timepiece where technical precision and precious metal artistry are one and the same. The ultra-thin caliber 910P isn’t just an engineering feat—it’s a visual statement, with bridges finished in khaki green and a peripheral rotor rendered in slate grey and green tones, designed to complement the warmth of the yellow gold case and provide visual interest while preserving the watch’s svelte proportions.This new edition of the Ultimate Automatic draws direct inspiration from the AUC Tourbillon, with the same subtle cross-shaped pattern appearing on the dial screws—a bridge that ties both models together in form and philosophy.

HIGH WATCHMAKING MEETS HIGH JEWELLERY

Together, the Altiplano Ultimate Concept Tourbillon and Altiplano 910P embody the essence of Piaget’s dual identity: a pioneer of fine watchmaking and a virtuoso of goldsmithing and jewellery design. Conceived as expressions of elegance for both men and women, these timepieces transcend conventional boundaries through their balanced proportions, sophisticated palette, and uncompromising focus on form and function. With their ultra-thin profiles and artistic detailing, they appeal to a new generation of collectors who value both mechanical excellence and distinctive design as only Piaget can. It is style and substance–ultra-thin audacity wrapped in the ultimate aesthetics.

 

The Maison has long treated the watch not only as a precision instrument but as a canvas for artistic expression. These new Altiplano editions reaffirm that philosophy, combining technical ingenuity with precious materials and finishing techniques traditionally reserved for jewelry. The khaki green and yellow gold colorway, specially developed for this collection, is at once refined and bold—evoking natural elegance and contemporary flair. From the meticulously brushed surfaces of the AUC Tourbillon’s cobalt case to the golden glow of the Automatic’s case and peripheral rotor, every detail speaks to Piaget’s commitment to Extraleganza—a distinctive fusion of extravagance and elegance. With these additions to the Altiplano Ultimate collection, Piaget manages to strike a delicate balance of daring innovation and enduring beauty, where every fraction of a millimeter reveals a universe of craftsmanship. The Altiplano Ultimate Concept Tourbillon and Altiplano 910P are not merely worn; they are a tribute to past triumphs and an invitation to imagine the boundaries yet to be redefined. Piaget epitomizes daring creativity a quality that has continued to permeate through the Maison since its beginnings in 1874. From his frst workshop in La Cote- aux- Fees, Georges-Edouard Piaget devoted himself to crafting high-precision movements in a feat that formed the very foundations of our pioneering name. In the late 1950s, Piaget unveiled the ultra-thin movements that would later become the Maison’s trademark and the cornerstone of the Altiplano collection. As a true innovator of the watch and jewellery world, Piaget strongly believed in creativity and artistic values. It is within the walls of our Ateliers de l’Extraordinaire where master artisans continue to harness rare skills that have been preserved and perfected from generation to generation, transforming gold, stones and precious gems into dazzling works of art. Through its pursuit of masterful craftsmanship, the Maison has created emblems of daring excellence channeled into its collections including Alt plano, Piaget Polo, Limelight Gala, Possession, Piaget Sunlight, Piaget Rose and Extremely Piaget.

 

THE CHRONOMASTER SPORT METEORITE: PRECISION FORGED IN SPACE

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A fragment of the universe, beating with time. ZENITH takes its most iconic modern chronograph to new heights, or rather, to new realms, with the introduction of the CHRONOMASTER Sport Meteorite. Fusing cutting-edge chronometry with celestial beauty, this latest evolution of the CHRONOMASTER sport brings an extraterrestrial allure to a watch already celebrated for its performance and precision.

Winner of the 2021 Grand Prix d’Horlogerie de Genève “Chronograph” prize, the CHRONOMASTER Sport is a bold expression of ZENITH’s unrivalled expertise in high-frequency automatic chronographs. Distinguished by its 1/10th of a second precision, it stands as a benchmark in contemporary watchmaking. Now, with a dial crafted from an actual meteorite, it becomes a poetic reminder of time’s cosmic scale.

Each dial begins its journey millions of years ago in the void of space, before arriving on Earth and ultimately at the heart of ZENITH’s workshop in Le Locle. Meticulously hand-finished to reveal the unique Widmanstätten pattern, a naturally occurring geometric structure formed by the slow cooling of molten iron in space, the grey meteorite dial is never replicated, never repeated. Against this galactic canvas, ZENITH’s signature tri-colour counters in silver, light grey, and anthracite provide a harmonious contrast, each detailed with a circular azuré finish. Applied baton-style hour markers and hands, treated with C1 Super-LumiNova, ensure legibility in any light. A discreet date window at 4:30 completes the display. Encased in a 41mm stainless steel case with a sleek, contemporary silhouette and pump-style pushers, the CHRONOMASTER Sport retains the DNA of the legendary 1969 A386 model. Its black ceramic bezel, graduated over 10 seconds, offers both durability and precise readability. The polished and satin-brushed surfaces elevate its sporty-chic aesthetic, while water resistance up to 10 ATM ensures everyday resilience.

At its core beats the El Primero 3600, the latest generation of ZENITH’s legendary chronograph calibre. With a 5 Hz (36,000 VpH) frequency and a silicon escape wheel, it enables the chronograph hand to make a complete rotation every 10 seconds, capturing elapsed time to the nearest tenth of a second. Its 60-hour power reserve and stop-seconds mechanism deliver reliability and precision. Through the sapphire caseback, the movement reveals its refined architecture, including a blue column wheel, horizontal clutch, and openworked rotor adorned with the ZENITH star.

The CHRONOMASTER Sport METEORITE is presented on a robust integrated steel bracelet with brushed and polished links, fastened by a double-folding clasp. An additional black rubber strap with matching clasp is included for added versatility.

Once a Japan-exclusive, the CHRONOMASTER Sport METEORITE is now available worldwide, exclusively through ZENITH boutiques (in-store and online) and authorized retailers.

 

CHRONOMASTER SPORT

Reference: 03.3120.3600/76.M3100

Key points: Date indication at 4:30, Stop-second mechanism, Automatic El Primero column-wheel chronograph able to measure and display 1/10th of a second, 1/10th of a second indication on the ceramic bezel, Increased power reserve of 60 hours

Movement: El Primero 3600

Frequency: 36,000 VpH (5 Hz)

Power reserve:  60 hours

Functions: Hours and minutes in the centre, small seconds at 9 o’clock, date at 4:30, 1/10th of a second Chronograph:

– Central chronograph hand that makes one turn in 10 seconds

– 60-minute counter at 6 o’clock

– 60-second counter at 3 o’clock

Finishes:  New star-shaped oscillating weight with satined finishings.

Price: 16’900 CHF / 18’300 Euros / 17’500 USD

Material: Stainless steel with black ceramic bezel

Water resistance: 10 ATM

Case: 41mm / Thickness : 13.6 mm / Lug to lug : 47 mm

Dial: Meteorite

Hour markers: Rhodium-plated, faceted and coated with SuperLuminova SLN C1

Hands: Rhodium-plated, faceted and coated with SuperLuminova SLN C1

Bracelet & Buckle: Stainless steel bracelet with folding clasp. Additional black rubber strap included.

 

Frederique Constant Revives the Vintage Rally Healey

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In 2025, the highly anticipated Vintage Rally Healey line – released only once every two years – makes its return not with one, but two distinct models. This unprecedented offering responds to a demand that has remained strong for over 20 years. Collectors continue to appreciate the nod to Healey, a reference to one of the most iconic small racing cars – a quintessentially British exception that has delighted gentleman drivers since 1952. Each model offers unique features: The first edition is more compact at 36 mm, includes a date function on a Healey blue dial, inspired by the metallic blue colour of the Austin-Healey 3000 MKII BM7. The second adds a chronograph housed in a 42 mm case – both of the latter models are limited to 1,888 pieces each.

Three Letters, Three Digits: NOJ393. This was the registration number of the legendary Austin-Healey 100S, purchased in 1969 by an enthusiast of the iconic car. It was born of a collaboration between the Austin Motor Company and driver Donald Healey, who was also its designer. The result was a spirited, sleek machine – truly one of a kind. One of the few remaining original models was the famous NOJ393. With its flawless lines – both fluid and taut – and British racing green livery, it became a classic. And since 2004, Frederique Constant has partnered with the legendary British brand to translate the car’s perfection into the world of watchmaking.

To maintain its tradition of exclusive vintages, Frederique Constant has, of course, retained limited editions. The first of these, produced in 1,888 pieces, features a 36 mm steel case with three hands and a date window – the seconds hand is red, a hallmark of all 2025 models, highlighting their sporty character. As tradition dictates, the caseback is solid and engraved with the silhouette of the Healey.

The dial showcases one of the flagship colours of 2025: Healey blue, inspired by the metallic blue colour of the Austin-Healey 3000 MKII BM7. Frederique Constant has chosen a sunburst finish to reflect the light towards the luminous applied indexes, complemented by a large “12” at twelve o’clock. As with each model, the dial bears the logos of its two proud parents: “Frederique Constant Genève” and “Healey”, in navy blue to match the flange.

 

The second limited edition, also capped at 1,888 pieces and mounted on a navy blue calfskin strap with contrast stitching, expresses a more assertively sporty identity. Its chronograph is housed in a 42 mm steel case with an open caseback. The watch is dual by nature: two colours (Healey blue dial, navy blue flange), two counters (small seconds at 9 o’clock, 30-minute counter at 3 o’clock), and two pushers.

 

 

 

 

LOUIS ERARD GRAVÉE MAIN

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Gravée Main marks a new milestone in Louis Erard’s Métiers d’Art series. Hand engraving takes center stage in a limited series of 99 unique timepieces. From case to bezel and from lugs and crown to buckle, every metal element is fully hand-engraved and finished in a demanding
process taking more than 50 hours. Hand engraving brings something machines can’t: uniqueness. Each cut, each curve is done by hand. No two are alike.

Just one artist, one piece of steel. The Gravée Main is art.isanship on the wrist. Tradition, with bite. Craft, with character.

Centuries-old craftsmanship, made wearable and collectible. A timepiece for the few and for those in the know.

“What I love most about these collaborations is how a minimalist watch becomes something completely different at the artist’s hand. Starting from the clean lines of the Noirmont, baroque floral motifs take over the entire object. It’s steel, yet it feels alive. Gravée Main is all about contrast: lavish ornamentation clashing beautifully with pure design. This watch is unique, not just in what it shows, but in what it says. It speaks of time, art, legacy, as well as resilience, the duty to protect and transmit rare crafts. Artistic crafts should be worn, live, and passed on. That’s our mission.” – Manuel Emch

Watch facts that matter

– Limited edition: 99 unique timepieces, each entirely hand engraved.
– Case: 42mm Noirmont in stainless steel, engraved over 50 hours of work.
– Technique: Traditional hand engraving using burins, drypoints, hand shading. Entire case, lugs, crown, bezel and buckle engraved; no two alike
– Design: Inspired by 18th century baroque floral motifs
– Dial: Polished black lacquer glossy anthracite and black transfers, rhodium-finished pear-shaped hands

Mission to art

Since 2021, Louis Erard has been pushing the boundaries of Métiers d’Art: Grand Feu enamel, guilloché, wood marquetry, and soon-to-be-launched gold wire inlay. Gravée Main opens a new chapter. A tribute to one of the oldest crafts in watchmaking: hand engraving. Engraving came before watches, born with goldsmiths. By the 18th century, it adorned anything from pocket watches to comtoise clocks. Almost at the same time, swirling Baroque floral motifs flourished. Gravée Main brings both traditions together.

Hand Engraving: the art of depth

The core: the 42mm Noirmont case in stainless steel.

The metal: steel, a material more difficult to engrave by hand due to its greater hardness, its
resistance to scratching and deformation.

The process: 50 hours from first pencil stroke to final polish.

The result: a singular object, impossible to replicate and far beyond what any machine can achieve. Each surface, case, bezel, lugs, crown, buckle, shaped and decorated through a precise multi-step engraving process.

It all begins with design: the artist sketches and refines the pattern, then transfers it freehand or with a stencil. Tools are chosen with care, different burins for different depths. The surface is first drypoint-etched to guide the engraving. Then comes the carving, line by line, millimeter by millimeter, adapting each movement to the shape and contours of the watch.

Once engraved, details, shading and textures are added by hand and eye. The case is cleaned and polished to bring out contrast and depth. Finally, quality control: visual balance is checked, structural integrity tested.

The minimalist architecture of Louis Erard becomes a canvas for centuries-old ornamentation, extending even to the dial. Inspired by baroque clocks, it pairs Roman numerals and pear- shaped rhodium-plated hands in a modern reinterpretation. Intentionally understated, the dial features a glossy black lacquer finish with anthracite and black transferred prints.

The artist behind the metal

Each Gravée Main is engraved by hand in Ukraine by Maksym Shavlak, a watchmaker and artist known for transforming antique timepieces into modern hybrids. Using his tools, he gives new life to steel.

“Case engraving is more than decoration, it’s a way to make metal speak. What began as a series of design exchanges over a year ago became a full creative partnership. Gravée Main is the result. It all started with a meeting, a conversation, a spark of shared vision. I showed Louis Erard what I was doing. They saw something raw and real in my work. They didn’t just want to use engraving as a visual decoration, they wanted to rethink the entire watch around it. Give it space. Let the steel speak.” – Maksym Shavlak

Métiers d’Art. Made accessible

With Gravée Main, Louis Erard once again expands its Métiers d’Art series, following launches in Grand Feu enamel, wood marquetry and guilloché. Two new techniques now make their debut at Geneva Watch Days: Gravée Main (hand engraved) and Fil d’Or (gold wire inlay). In a world where such skills are often reserved for collectors of inaccessible timepieces, Louis Erard continues to build bridges between craft and wearability, tradition and modernity, rarity and reach.

Technical Specifications

Movement
Automatic, Sellita SW261-1 calibre, 3 hands with small seconds at 6 o’clock,
11½’’’, Ø25.60 mm, height: 5.60 mm, 31 jewels, 28,800 VpH (4Hz), élaboré
grade movement, special openworked oscillating weight with black lacquered
Louis Erard symbol, approx. 38 hours of power reserve

Functions
HMS
Central hour and minute hands, second hand at 6 o’clock

Case
Polished stainless steel entirely hand engraved, Ø42 mm, lug width: 22 mm, lug to lug: 49.90 mm, thickness: 12.25 mm, 3 pieces, domed sapphire crystal with anti-reflective treatment on both sides, movement visible through the transparent back caseback, water resistant up to a pressure of 5 bars (50 m/165 ft), hand-engraved fluted crown.

Dial
Black polished lacquer with shiny anthracite and black transfers

Hands
Rhodium-plated pear-shaped hands

Strap
Black grained calf leather strap with tone-on-tone stitching, black lining grained calf leather, polished stainless steel pin buckle, ergot bars for quick strap change.
Dimensions: 22/20mm width, 80/115 mm length

TAG Heuer Monaco Split-Seconds Chronograph

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At the intersection of audacity and mastery, Swiss luxury watchmaker TAG Heuer introduces a new release of its TAG Heuer Monaco Split- Seconds Chronograph. This 2025 edition reveals a new expression of material innovation: it is presented in a visually striking form of titanium, for which the process has been entirely developed in-house. This texturized titanium, named TH-Titanium, brings a new visual identity that feels elemental, singular, almost alive.

The Shape of Innovation

Since its inception in 1969, the TAG Heuer Monaco has been a symbol of contrarian design. With its distinctive square shape, left crown and signature blue dial, the TAG Heuer Monaco shattered conventions in the watchmaking world. Notably, it became the first water-resistant and automatic square chronograph wristwatch, further solidifying its status as an icon. Ahead of its time with its avant-garde aesthetics, it found admiration among creative visionaries like Sammy Davis Jr., Stanley Kubrick, and Steve McQueen.

Splitting the Seconds

Meanwhile, the rich legacy of TAG Heuer’s split-seconds chronograph watches dates back over a century. From the early 1900s, the Maison has dedicated itself to mastering this significant horological complication, evident in various references of stopwatches and dashboard timers.

A pivotal moment came in 1916 with the creation of the Mikrosplit, a stopwatch capable of recording separate intervals to 1/100th of a second. This landmark achievement laid the foundation for TAG Heuer’s legacy in high-performance timekeeping, from Olympic Games stopwatches in the early 20th century to dashboard timers used in motorsport. Over the decades, the drive for precision naturally led to the development of other split-seconds timepieces, a complication that exemplifies the Maison’s technical mastery and competitive spirit.

In the 1960s, Heuer stopwatches became a staple in motorsport paddocks, like the memorable reference 11.402 that featured a split-seconds chronograph capable of measuring time with 1/10th of a second accuracy. Used by Jean Campiche, a Heuer timekeeper working with Scuderia Ferrari, this model became iconic. In 1989, TAG Heuer introduced a quartz split-seconds chronograph wristwatch, gaining immense popularity, especially among racing legends like Ayrton Senna, Gerhard Berger and Michael Schumacher.

In 2024, TAG Heuer brought this complication back and expanded the TAG Heuer Monaco collection with the TAG Heuer Monaco Split-Seconds Chronograph in original blue and racing red, two interpretations that set the stage for this year’s latest evolution, where craftsmanship meets a radical new approach to material design.

The Depth of Movement

Crafted entirely in titanium for exceptional lightness and framed in sapphire to expose its movement’s architectural depth, the TAG Heuer Monaco Split-Seconds Chronograph is driven by the Calibre TH81-00, developed in partnership with Vaucher Manufacture Fleurier and also crafted in titanium, weighing only 30 grams.

The split-seconds function, also called “rattrapante” in French, is a highly sophisticated and intricate mechanism that requires the most expert of watchmakers due to its complexity. It is capable of measuring two separate time intervals concurrently, providing a level of functionality that exceeds that of a regular chronograph. Whether timing laps on the racetrack or tracking multiple sporting events, the TAG Heuer Monaco Split-Seconds Chronograph offers unparalleled accuracy and versatility in its usage.

This movement contributes to the watch’s exceptional weight: a mere 86 grams in total, including strap and buckle.

The Birth of TH-Titanium

What further elevates this new timepiece is its case, sculpted from a new form of titanium that transforms the essence of the metal itself. Developed over four years, this innovative take on titanium marks a significant material breakthrough. This project was led by the TAG Heuer Lab, the Maison’s in-house R&D institute based in La Chaux-de- Fonds. Led by a team of experts and scientists specialized in a wide range of disciplines and benefiting from state-of- the-art equipment, the TAG Heuer Lab is driven by innovation, always pushing the boundaries of watchmaking.

Using a proprietary thermal process, the metal is transformed at an atomic level to reveal its hidden structure. The result is a natural, irregular pattern that shifts with light. The pattern on each case is therefore entirely unique, shaped by the intrinsic structure of the metal rather than the human hand.

The metal used to craft TH-Titanium is a specific type of titanium alloy, known for its strength, corrosion resistance, and ability to retain energy. This form of titanium is typically reserved for aerospace components, turbine elements, and high-performance automotive parts.

To create this one-of-a-kind faceted effect on the metal’s surface, the TAG Heuer Lab has developed a series of specially designed thermal treatments, reorganizing the alloy’s atomic structure. Through this process, the unique visual identity of TH-titanium is revealed, refined, and preserved. What appears on the case is the alloy’s own character, captured at a moment of transformation, and secured for lasting performance.

Precision Exposed

To match the depth and dimensionality of the new case, the TAG Heuer Monaco Split-Seconds Chronograph retains its remarkable sapphire bezel and dial. This transparency deliberately invites to observe the interplay between form and function.

Beneath the dial, the black opaline chronograph counters create a striking contrast, while the rattrapante hand is finished in a vibrant lime green. That same lime hue appears on the titanium rattrapante pusher and the counters’ hands, guaranteeing maximum legibility and drawing a subtle but unmistakable connection to the world of racing, where these tones are often used to signal speed and performance. The balance struck between the darkened bridges and hand-made polished bevels, the shadow and the shine, underlines the sense of mechanical drama.

Adding to this effect, the caseback is crafted entirely in sapphire crystal, offering unobstructed views of the Calibre TH81-00. The oscillating weight, shaped in the signature TAG Heuer shield, appears to hover within the movement, enhancing the sense of depth and lightness. Perfectly symmetrical, it is hand-finished with fine brushing that highlights its contours. The hand-engraved checkered flag pattern, a TAG Heuer signature finish, adds a layer of detail, reinforcing the visual complexity of the watch’s inner mechanics.

Hand-painted stripes bring a distinct graphic identity to the timepiece, as a subtle nod to racing liveries. The adjacent balance wheel bridge is finely brushed with polished bevels, carefully finished by hand, continuing the watch’s quiet dialogue between technical precision and expert craftsmanship.

Each individually numbered on the oscillating weight, these timepieces are accompanied by a hand-stitched black calfskin strap with a textile pattern, secured with a titanium clasp.

The finished result of the TAG Heuer Monaco Split-Seconds Chronograph reflects TAG Heuer’s avant-garde DNA, and the brand’s refusal to accept matter as static, reimagining it instead as alive, reactive, and expressive.

The TAG Heuer Monaco Split-Seconds Chronograph stands as a clear expression of what happens when vision and innovation are allowed to lead.

TAG Heuer Monaco Split-Seconds Chronograph: CBW2185.FC8350

Movement

Calibre TH81-00
Automatic Split-Seconds Chronograph
Frequency: 5 Hertz (36’000 VPH)
Power reserve: 65 hours (chrono off) / 55 hours (chrono on)

Functions

Hours, minutes, seconds, chronograph, split-seconds function

Dial

Sapphire dial with white and lime markings
White Super-LumiNova® applied indexes (blocks)
Fine-brushed, polished black DLC coated grade-5 titanium bridges 3 counters:

– 3 o’clock: black opaline minute chronograph counter; lime lacquered hand; white markings

– 9 o’clock: black opaline hour chronograph counter; lime lacquered hand; white markings

– 6 o’clock: rhodium-plated brushed and sandblasted permanent second indicator ring; rhodium-plated hand; black markings
Black gold open-worked hour and minute hands with white Super-LumiNova® and white lacquered tips
White lacquered central chronograph hand
Lime lacquered central split-seconds hand

TAG HEUER applied logo
“RATTRAPANTE” “CHRONOGRAPH” printed on the counters, “SWISS” “MADE” printed on the dial

Case

41mm
TH-TITANIUM sandblasted case
Polished sapphire fixed bezel
Beveled, domed sapphire crystal
Fine brushed, polished grade-5 titanium crown at 3 o’clock with lime-lacquered TAG HEUER shield
Fine brushed, polished grade-5 titanium shaped chronograph push-button at 2 o’clock Fine brushed, polished grade-5 titanium shaped chronograph push-button at 4 o’clock Sandblasted TH-Titanium shaped split-seconds push-button protector at 8 o’clock Fine brushed, polished grade-5 titanium shaped split-seconds push-button with lime lacquered titanium tube at 9 o’clock
Sandblasted TH-Titanium shaped split-seconds push-button protector at 10 o’clock Polished full sapphire caseback
Grade-5 titanium TH81-00 split-seconds chronograph movement with hand finishes (e.g. signature checkered flag pattern and hand beveling)
Fine brushed, sandblasted oscillating weight with hand-painted racing-inspired stripes Water resistance: 30 meters

Bracelet

Black calfskin strap with textile embossing and black & lime hand stitching
Grade-5 titanium butterfly folding clasp and safety push-buttons with fine adjustment and TH-Titanium pin buckle

Dimensions

Lug-to-lug: 47,9mm Thickness: 15,2mm

Montblanc Bohème Perpetual Calendar

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Montblanc captures the elegant, artistic spirit of la femme bohème in every detail of its new Perpetual Calendar timepiece.

In Montblanc’s storied manufactures in Le Locle and Villeret, master watchmakers and artisans bring together traditional Swiss horology with modern decorative techniques to create the new 36mm Montblanc Bohème Perpetual Calendar. From the printed watercolour moon phase disc, to the machine-stamped “star trail” (filé d’étoiles) outer dial, and the highly technical field of micro-diamonds that forms the inner dial, the Bohème Perpetual Calendar represents Montblanc’s dedication to both traditional handcrafts and state-of-the-art material processes that define Swiss watchmaking in the 21st century.

An Elegantly Feminine Visage

The fully mechanical perpetual calendar complication is presented in a flattering 36mm case in either solid rose gold 750/1000 (18 karats) or in a striking bi-metal construction combining stainless steel and rose gold 750/1000 (18 karats). The size has been selected to suit women’s wrists while also offering the appropriate proportions for the perpetual calendar’s various functions to express themselves on the complex, yet very legible dial.

Bringing form and function together like this requires for Montblanc’s designers to carefully place each mechanical function on the dial in order to achieve visual harmony. Discerning collectors will note the thoughtful placement of the four sub dials, as well as the way they gently overlap the outer hour track, a small intrusion that subtly transforms this typically technical and masculine dial configuration into an organic and feminine visage.

Diamonds Like a Night Sky

The four sub dials, indicating the day, date, month, leap year cycle and phases of the moon, float in a dazzling field formed from thousands of micro-diamonds. Rather than using traditional “diamond powder”, Montblanc has elected to deploy a highly technical process by which the tiny diamonds are set side-by-side to create a uniform surface that is then covered with a bright metallic PVD coating. The result is a completely flat, sparkling, dark grey surface. Reminiscent of the countless stars in the night sky, this treatment creates the backdrop for this perpetual calendar complication that tracks the elaborate movements of our solar system with precision.

A Trail of Stars to Tell the Time

Around that inner dial is the white-silver hour track. This is created using a specific stamping method to create a pattern called filé d’étoiles – trail of stars. The pattern was inspired by long-exposure photographs of the night sky, often called Astro photographs, that reveal the stars as streaks of light. The stars, of course, aren’t moving; rather, these stunning photographs document the Earth’s daily rotation, the same planetary dance that has fascinated watchmakers for centuries and which forms the underlying logic of the perpetual calendar complication.

The Long Cycles of Time

While deeply complicated and elaborately decorated, the dial remains highly legible. Hours are highlighted by Floral Arabic numerals at 3, 6, 9 and 12, while traditional trapezoidal indicators occupy the intermediary positions. Elegant rose gold-coated leaf hands reach just far enough to make at-a-glance time-telling intuitive.

Indications in Handwritten Style

In its form, the Bohème Perpetual Calendar also pays subtle homage to the beauty of handwriting. A closer look at the three upper-sub dials reveals the indications in a font reminiscent of handwriting, celebrating Montblanc’s writing culture heritage.

A Watercolour Moon in a Watercolour Sky

All of this sets the scene for the moon-phase complication. Located within the 6 o’clock sub dial, the phases of the moon are indicated along with the long-range calendar that will remain accurate until the year 2100 (when the Gregorian calendar will ignore a leap year to compensate for accumulated annual deviations).

The moon-phase disc found on the Montblanc Bohème Perpetual Calendar has been crafted using serigraphy, with the pattern and colours based on an interpretation of watercolours that adds a further romantic touch to this central feature.

A Bezel Full of Choice Diamonds

Whether choosing the rose-gold 750/1000 (18 karats) model or the bi-metal version, the rose gold 750/1000 (18 karats) bezel of the Bohème Perpetual Calendar is fitted with 60 brilliant-cut diamonds. Each diamond meets or exceeds the V. S. rating for clarity as well as the inclusion in at least the Top Wesselton category for whiteness.

It is worth noting that the 60 diamonds surrounding the dial also act as a precise minute-track. While every aesthetic feature of the Bohème Perpetual Calendar is sophisticated and highly decorative, precision timekeeping is always at the heart of the timepiece.

Achieving High Complication With Calibre MB 29.15

Montblanc’s calibre MB 29.15 offers the full suite of perpetual calendar features, including the hour and minutes, the day of the week, the month, a leap year indicator and the watercolour interpretation moon-phase. This watch will not need to be reset until March 2100, and it holds 42-hours’ worth of mechanical power when fully wound. Adjustments, when needed, are activated intuitively using correctors on mid-case.

Each MB 29.15 movement undergoes rigorous Montblanc laboratory test in the manufacture of Le Locle in order to ensure the ultimate in precision timekeeping.

Three Straps for Every Mood

The Bohème Perpetual Calendar comes with three interchangeable straps: a beige calfskin strap with alligator print, a smooth black calfskin strap, and a burgundy-tone calfskin strap, rounding out the versatility of the timepiece.

Montblanc Bohème Perpetual Calendar 36mm

Movement Calibre MB 29.15
Type of movement Mechanical movement with automatic winding mechanism
Number of jewels 25
Power reserve Approx. 42 hours
Balance Flat hoop
Frequency 28,800 A/h (4 Hz)
Hairspring Flat
Displays Hours, minutes from the center
Perpetual calendar with month by hand and leap year cycle by disc at 12 o’clock
Day by hand at 9 o’clock
Date by hand at 3 o’clock
Moon phase in a window at 6 o’clock

Habillage
Case Stainless steel case with a rose gold 750/1000 (18 karats) bezel set with 60 brillant-cut diamonds (approx.0.9carat)
Crystal Scratch-resistant, domed sapphire crystal with anti-reflective coating
Back Stainless steel with inset pane of sapphire crystal
Dimensions Diameter = 36 mm; height = 10.05 mm
Water-resistance 3 bar (30 m)
Crown rose gold 750/1000 (18 karats) with Montblanc emblem
Dial Silver-white dial adorned with rose gold-coated Arabic numerals, indexes and leaf-shaped hands
Micro diamonds surface (approx. 0.14 carat) in the center, filet sauté pattern and filé d ’étoiles effect on the outside of the dial.

Wristband* Delivered with 3 straps:
Beige interchangeable calf leather strap with alligator print
Black interchangeable calf leather strap
Burgundy-tone interchangeable calf leather strap with alligator print, shiny finish
With stainless steel pin buckle

Limited Edition No

 

The Rise of the Indian Female Watch Collector: Capturing Minds, Hearts, and Market Share

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The landscape of luxury watchmaking in India is experiencing a seismic shift. What was once considered a gentleman’s domain is now witnessing unprecedented female participation, with women emerging not just as buyers, but as discerning collectors and brand ambassadors. This evolution presents challenges and golden opportunities for luxury brands seeking to capture this dynamic market segment. 

The Numbers Don’t Lie: A Market in Transformation

The demographic transformation driving India’s luxury watch market is nothing short of remarkable. India’s luxury goods market, valued at USD 10.01 billion in 2024, is projected to reach USD 17.94 billion by 2033—representing a robust 6.37% CAGR (IMARC Group, 2024). What makes this growth particularly compelling is its composition: women now account for 53.9% of India’s luxury market share, fundamentally reshaping how brands approach this demographic (IMARC Group, 2024).

The statistics paint a compelling picture when you turn towards the watch industry for women in India. Female labour force participation has nearly doubled from 23.3% in 2017-18 to 41.7% in 2023-24 (Periodic Labour Force Survey, Government of India), creating a new class of economically empowered women who view luxury timepieces as both professional accessories and investment assets. While 28% of luxury watches sold globally are purchased for women (Deloitte Swiss Watch Industry Study, 2024), brands like Jaeger-LeCoultre command a striking 24% share of their overall sales in India from female consumers. This gap—four percentage points below the global average—represents untapped potential worth millions in revenue for luxury maisons.

This disparity signals a massive opportunity: India’s female luxury consumers are ready to spend, but brands haven’t fully adapted their strategies to capture this sophisticated demographic.

What’s driving this trend? The answer lies in understanding the unique preferences, aspirations, and cultural context of Indian women in luxury consumption. Unlike their global counterparts, Indian female watch enthusiasts often seek pieces that seamlessly transition from boardroom to ballroom, embodying both professional success and personal style.

Strategic Brand Movements: The New Wave of Female-Focused Initiatives

Piaget’s Celebrity-Driven India Strategy

Piaget, one of the most iconic watchmakers of the past century, is making calculated moves to enter the Indian market later this year with a focus on celebrity endorsements and haute horlogerie pieces that blur the lines between timepieces and jewelry. Their strategy recognizes that Indian women appreciate watches as fashion statements—sculptural pieces that tell stories of achievement and aesthetic sensibility.

Piaget’s Sixtie collection of watches for women reinterprets the brand’s 1960s designs with a modern twist. The collection features a trapeze-shaped watch with a supple bracelet, blending geometric design with precious metals. The name also suggests a connection to the 1960s, a period when Piaget was known for its ultra-thin movements and bold designs.

Van Cleef & Arpels: The Poetry of Time Arrives

Van Cleef & Arpels is planning to enter the Indian market soon, bringing its “Poetry of Time” philosophy to a market hungry for narrative-driven luxury.

At Watches & Wonders 2025, Van Cleef & Arpels unveiled four new Pont des Amoureux variations featuring precious bracelets with diamonds and sapphires, capturing dawn, morning, dusk, and moonlight—time told through the poetry of love (Van Cleef & Arpels Press Release, April 2025). The maison also introduced the Lady Arpels Bal des Amoureux Automate, where lovers meet and kiss at noon and midnight beneath a starlit Parisian sky. These romantic narratives resonate deeply with Indian sensibilities, echoing the brand’s historic connection to India through legendary patrons like Sita Devi, the Maharani of Baroda, whose 1950s collaborations with Jacques Arpels created iconic pieces using emeralds from the Baroda royal treasure.

Cartier: The Crown Jewel’s Dominance

Cartier continues to outperform its Richemont siblings for the second consecutive year, posting robust growth while other luxury watch brands face sluggish performance (Richemont Q3 2024 Financial Report). This success stems from Cartier’s jewelry-forward approach to watchmaking—a strategy that resonates powerfully with Indian women who view luxury timepieces as extensions of their jewelry collections rather than purely functional accessories.

This trend signals a broader industry truth: jewelry-focused watch brands are thriving in markets where women drive luxury consumption. The lesson for other maisons is clear—technical prowess alone isn’t enough; emotional connection through design and heritage storytelling becomes paramount.

Digital Disruption Meets Traditional Craftsmanship

The rise of social media influence cannot be ignored. Indian women are increasingly discovering luxury watches through digital platforms, with online retail growing at double digits in the luxury segment (Bain & Company Luxury Report India, 2024). Brands must master the art of storytelling across both digital and physical touchpoints, creating immersive experiences that translate craftsmanship into compelling narratives.

Five Exceptional Women’s Watches Deserving Recognition

Jaeger-LeCoultre Reverso Classic Small

Heritage: Born in 1931 for polo players, the Reverso’s reversible case now symbolizes the duality of modern Indian women—professional and personal, traditional and contemporary.

Why It Deserves Attention: A watch with a deep connection to India, offers Art Deco elegance with Swiss precision. The ability to personalize the caseback makes it deeply meaningful for milestone celebrations.

Cartier Panthère

Heritage: Inspired by Cartier’s iconic panther motif, representing feminine power and grace.

Why It Deserves Attention: The perfect “starter luxury watch” for professional women, offering timeless design that transitions effortlessly from boardroom to evening events.

Piaget Polo 79

Heritage: Recently revived after 35 years, representing bold architectural design.

Why It Deserves Attention: The integrated bracelet design and ultra-thin profile appeal to women seeking statement pieces that don’t compromise on elegance.

Van Cleef & Arpels Cadenas

Heritage: Created in 1935, embodying the maison’s jewelry savoir-faire.

Why It Deserves Attention: The ability to wear it as both watch and bracelet appeals to Indian women’s preference for versatile luxury pieces.

Bvlgari Serpenti

Heritage: Roman heritage meets Italian design mastery.

Why It Deserves Attention: The serpent motif resonates with Indian symbolism while offering contemporary luxury appeal, making it culturally relevant yet globally sophisticated.

The Path Forward: Actionable Strategies for Luxury Brands

Embrace Cultural Storytelling: Indian women respond to narratives that honor both heritage and innovation. Brands must weave their history with contemporary relevance.

Invest in Experience: Physical boutiques remain crucial. The tactile experience of trying luxury timepieces cannot be replicated digitally, especially for first-time buyers.

Celebrity Partnerships Matter: Strategic celebrity endorsements, when authentic, can drive significant awareness and aspiration among Indian consumers.

Digital-First Discovery: While purchase decisions happen in-store, discovery increasingly happens online. Brands need compelling digital narratives that drive foot traffic to authorized retailers.

Customization and Personalization: Indian luxury consumers value exclusivity. Offering personalization options—from dial colors to engraving—creates emotional connections that drive both purchase and loyalty.

The Indian women’s luxury watch market isn’t just growing—it’s evolving. Brands that recognize women as sophisticated collectors rather than occasional buyers, that understand the cultural nuances of luxury consumption in India, and that invest in authentic storytelling will capture the hearts, minds, and wallets of this influential demographic. The question isn’t whether this market will mature—it’s which brands will be bold enough to lead its transformation.

 Sources:

  • IMARC Group. (2024). India Luxury Goods Market Report 2024-2033
  • Government of India. (2024). Periodic Labour Force Survey (PLFS) Annual Report 2023-24
  • Deloitte. (2024). Swiss Watch Industry Study
  • Richemont. (2025). Third Quarter Financial Results 2024
  • Van Cleef & Arpels. (April 2025). Press Release: Watches & Wonders 2025
  • Bain & Company. (2024). India Luxury Market Report

 

 

Jaeger-LeCoultre Master Grande Tradition Calibre 948: A Green Enamel Worldtime Masterpiece

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When Jaeger-LeCoultre unveils a new watch in its Master Grande Tradition collection, expectations are already sky-high. The latest chapter—the Master Grande Tradition Calibre 948 with a green enamel dial—does more than live up to them. It blends fine watchmaking with miniature artistry, offering collectors a rare creation that is as much a work of art as it is a mechanical instrument.

The Earth on Your Wrist

At first glance, the watch pulls you into its dial. A domed representation of the Earth, viewed from above the North Pole, sits at the center. Each continent has been delicately shaped in pink gold and then finished with layers of vivid green enamel. The oceans shimmer with depth thanks to guilloché engraving beneath translucent lacquer, creating an effect of gentle waves moving across the seas.

This isn’t a dial you merely check for the time—it’s one you get lost in, discovering new details every time you turn your wrist.

The Tourbillon in Orbit

Powering this miniature globe is the Calibre 948, one of Jaeger-LeCoultre’s most technically ambitious movements. The standout is its orbital flying tourbillon, which doesn’t just rotate on its own axis but also makes a full circuit around the dial every 24 hours. The result is a double dance of mechanics: one revolution every minute for the tourbillon, and one every day for the world-time display.

This orbital motion isn’t simply for spectacle. It represents the rotation of the Earth itself—an elegant reminder that time is both universal and personal.

Global Time, Made Simple

As a true world-time watch, the Master Grande Tradition Calibre 948 allows the wearer to see all 24 time zones at once. A rotating city ring, aligned with a 24-hour scale, keeps track of the world’s major hubs.

Travelers will appreciate how effortless it is to adjust: moving between time zones requires only the hour hand to be shifted via the crown, leaving the precise minutes and seconds untouched. It’s practical, precise, and entirely in the spirit of Jaeger-LeCoultre’s watchmaking philosophy.

An Architecture of Elegance

The case, crafted in 18-carat pink gold, is as considered as the dial it frames. With its softly curved bezel, beveled lugs, and varied finishes—from polished to micro-blasted—it plays with light in subtle, changing ways. At 43mm, it has a commanding presence, but thoughtful ergonomics make it surprisingly wearable. A deep green alligator strap completes the aesthetic, tying the piece together in harmony.

Limited, Precious, Unforgettable

Only 20 examples of this green enamel edition exist, making it an object of rarity even in the world of haute horlogerie. Each one embodies dozens of hours of artisanal work—engraving, enameling, lacquering, and assembly—all carried out in Jaeger-LeCoultre’s Vallée de Joux manufacture.

It’s not just a watch; it’s a snapshot of centuries of craft distilled into a single, limited-edition creation.

Final Thoughts

The Master Grande Tradition Calibre 948 with green enamel is a watch that transcends categories. It’s a travel companion, a showcase of Métiers d’Art, and a demonstration of mechanical ingenuity. More than telling time, it tells a story—of the Earth, of craftsmanship, and of Jaeger-LeCoultre’s tireless pursuit of beauty in motion.

 

Raymond Weil’s New Freelancer Complete Calendar: A Moonlit Ode to Modern Watchmaking

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In the ever-evolving language of timekeeping, some watches whisper, some shout — and then there are those that tell their story with a refined, confident voice. Raymond Weil’s new Freelancer Complete Calendar 2766-PC5-64001 belongs to the latter.

This is not just a watch that tells you the time. It tells you the day, the date, the month, and even where the moon sits in its celestial journey. And it does so with a warmth and elegance that feels both timeless and unmistakably modern.

A Case for Understated Elegance

At 40 mm in diameter and a mere 10.15 mm in thickness, the Freelancer Complete Calendar doesn’t need to make a spectacle of itself. Its rose gold PVD-coated stainless steel case pairs brushed surfaces with polished edges, catching light with the grace of a string quartet’s final bow. The slim profile ensures it slips effortlessly under a shirt cuff — the kind of detail you only appreciate after living with a watch.

The dune sunray dial is an understated star. Its warm, sandy tones evoke late-afternoon sunlight, while the rose-gold indices and hands — filled with Super-LumiNova® — ensure readability even in dim light.

The Calendar, Complete and Poetic

The “complete” in Complete Calendar means business. Twin apertures under 12 o’clock display the day and month.

At 6 o’clock, the moon phase comes alive — not with a generic graphic, but with a disc inspired by real NASA imagery, while a pointer hand sweeps the outer track to mark the date.

It’s a reminder that watchmaking, at its best, isn’t just about measuring time, but also about celebrating our place in the cosmos.

Inside the Music: The RW3281 Calibre

Raymond Weil has built its reputation by balancing Swiss tradition with attainable luxury, and the movement here is a fine example. The automatic RW3281 calibre delivers a power reserve of up to 62 hours and hums along at 4 Hz for precision.

Flip the watch over, and a sapphire caseback reveals the movement — the mechanical heartbeat of this piece — finished with a care that invites lingering glances.

Built for More Than the Boardroom

While the Freelancer Complete Calendar wears like a classic dress watch, it’s no delicate diva. With 100 m of water resistance and a screw-down crown, it’s ready for a sudden downpour or a weekend getaway. The brown calfskin strap with folding clasp keeps the look refined but flexible, whether you’re pairing it with a suit or something more casual.

Why This Watch Matters

In a world where smartwatches dominate wrists, the Raymond Weil Freelancer Complete Calendar stands as a reminder of what mechanical watchmaking can still do — merge utility, craftsmanship, and beauty in a single piece of wearable art.

Key Specifications

  • Case: 40 mm stainless steel, rose-gold PVD, 10.15 mm thickness

  • Dial: Dune sunray with rose-gold PVD hands & indices, Super-LumiNova®

  • Functions: Day, date, month, moon phase

  • Movement: Automatic RW3281, ~62-hour power reserve

  • Water Resistance: 100 m

  • Strap: Brown calfskin leather, folding clasp with double push-security

 

Van Cleef & Arpels Unveils a Romantic Universe at Watches & Wonders 2025

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Some watchmakers count the hours. Van Cleef & Arpels turns them into poetry.

At Watches & Wonders 2025, the Maison brought together its two greatest strengths — mechanical mastery and storytelling — in a showcase that felt more like a dream than a product launch. Love, starlight, Parisian romance, and precious craftsmanship came together in a collection that didn’t just measure time, but made you feel it.

Pont des Amoureux: The Lovers’ Bridge

This year, the beating heart of the presentation was an expanded chapter in one of Van Cleef & Arpels’ most beloved tales — Pont des Amoureux.

Four new editions — Aube (dawn), Matinée (morning), Soirée (evening), and Clair de Lune (moonlight) — each capture a different moment in the day’s emotional arc.

On the dial, a man and a woman begin their journey from opposite ends of a Parisian bridge. Every hour brings them closer, until they meet for a kiss at noon and midnight. The movement behind this ballet is a double retrograde mechanism, but the effect is pure theatre. Collectors can also press a button to bring the moment to life on demand, because some love stories deserve to be replayed.

Even the bracelets play a part in the narrative — their gemstone gradients shifting in tone to reflect the changing light of the sky.

Lady Arpels Bal des Amoureux Automate: Dancing in the Moonlight

If Pont des Amoureux is a quiet anticipation, Lady Arpels Bal des Amoureux Automate is its celebration.
The scene is a Parisian dance hall bathed in lantern light. A couple, hand in hand, begin a waltz.

At the touch of a button, they move — slowly, gracefully — until the dance ends with an embrace. Time is read in two star-shaped retrograde displays in the upper corners, leaving the central stage free for the lovers. The backdrop, crafted in layers of grisaille enamel and sculpted gold, has the depth and atmosphere of a painting. Available in white gold, with the option of diamond-set cases and straps, it is as much a jewel as it is a watch.

Automatons Beyond the Wrist

The Maison’s flair for animation isn’t confined to wristwatches. Two extraordinary automata brought an entirely different scale to the artistry.

  • Naissance de l’Amour — Cupid emerges from a feathered shell, his enamel wings beating as a melody plays. Made from materials like petrified wood, pink opal, and iron-eye stone, it’s a celebration of the first spark of love.

  • Planétarium Automaton — A miniature solar system in motion, with all eight planets orbiting a radiant sun at their true speeds. A shooting star marks the passing time while music underscores the celestial choreography.

When Jewellery Becomes Time

Van Cleef & Arpels also revisited two icons from its high jewellery archives:

  • Cadenas — First created in 1935, this padlock-shaped design returns in yellow gold, snow-set diamonds, and sapphire accents. Its discreet, slanted dial remains a hallmark for those who prefer to keep their time private.

  • Ruban Mystérieux — A flowing ribbon of gems, hiding a mystery-set dial beneath a 3.72-carat diamond. It’s jewellery first, watch second — yet both at once.

The Poetry of Time

For Van Cleef & Arpels, a watch is never just a watch. It’s a scene, a mood, a memory in motion.
At Watches & Wonders 2025, the Maison showed us that precision is only half the magic. The other half is the ability to make a moment linger — to let you wear a love story, a starlit sky, or a ribbon of light on your wrist.

Because in the end, time is only as beautiful as the way we choose to tell it.

TOURBILLON SKELET RED GOLD – DRAGON MASK

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A symbol of harmony, power and metamorphosis, the Chinese dragon embodies the balance between strength and wisdom. This mythical inspiration has been brought to life by the brand through the alchemy of materials, craftsmanship and art. To celebrate this cornerstone of Chinese culture, Jaquet Droz is unveiling the Tourbillon Skelet Red Gold – Dragon Mask, a unique piece combining the skills of master craftsmen and watchmakers to set this legendary heritage within the beating of time.

The dragon seems to emerge from the dial, as if plucked straight from a legend. With its long horns, curled whiskers and sharp fangs, its face comes to life, capturing the light in every detail. Carved and engraved by hand in an alloy of white, yellow and red gold, each curve has been sculpted with extreme precision. The age-old creature finds refuge here, in an 18-karat red gold case, measuring 41 mm in diameter and 13 mm thick. The full force of the myth is captured in the perfect lines of this timepiece, ready to transmit its power to the wearer.

Every detail of the mask has been meticulously crafted by hand: from the engraving and sculpture to the micro-painting and gem-setting… this piece took nearly a year to design and it is the fruit of more than 200 hours of work involving all of Jaquet Droz’s master craftsmen and watchmakers. Carved from a solid block of gold, engraved on both sides and then applied to a decorated background, the mask appears to float over the movement.

Jaquet Droz also used a specific cut of precious stones, including cabochon-cut emeralds, in a bezel setting. Blending into the material, they accentuate its power and maximise the intensity of the dragon’s gaze. This newly-acquired cutting-edge expertise opens up a whole new field of expression, further enhancing the creative autonomy of the Jaquet Droz workshops.

“Bringing together so much expertise to create this unique piece was a real feat that posed challenges both on a human and a technical level. This art watch is the result of a collective adventure, in which every detail has been studied, debated and refined, to reach a level of execution and harmony that pushed our limits even further.” Project Manager, Jaquet Droz

The self-winding skeleton movement houses a flying tourbillon positioned at 12 o’clock, whose movement blends into the floral lines engraved on the back of the watch. Offering an exceptional eight-day power reserve, this Manufacture calibre combines spectacular aesthetics with mechanical excellence. The sapphire back reveals the oscillating weight engraved with the words “ONE MORE”, a nod from Jaquet Droz to its collector, extending the narrative universe to the heart of the movement.

The result of a close dialogue between a collector and Jaquet Droz’s master craftsmen, this piece was custom-made, with every detail studied, refined and brought to its ultimate expression. An art watch that fully embodies Jaquet Droz’s philosophy of the Unique: bringing an intimate vision to life to create a work that truly reflects its owner, where art and watchmaking merge until we no longer know where the craftsmanship ends and time begins.

At Jaquet Droz, the dragon does not breathe fire, but beauty, power and sublimity. And in the hollow of a dial, a legend is crafted, bespoke and unique; a new alliance forged between heritage and innovation.

“Create your own. As unique as you are”

NUMERUS CLAUSUS: Unique piece

REFERENCE: J0135230091

DESCRIPTION
18-karat white, yellow and red gold dial, hand-engraved and hand-painted, set with emerald cabochons
18-karat red gold case.
Self-winding skeleton tourbillon movement.
Power reserve of 8 days.
Diameter 41 mm.

MOVEMENT
Jaquet Droz 2625 SQ, self-winding skeleton tourbillon movement, black treatment, silicon balance spring and pallet horns, single barrel, 18-karat red gold oscillating weight
Customized engraving on the oscillating weight

INDICATIONS
Off-centered hours and minutes at 6 o’clock
Tourbillon frame and off-centered seconds at 12 o’clock

JEWELING
30 jewels

POWER RESERVE
8 days

FREQUENCY
21,600 v.p.h.

CASE
18-karat red gold case
Diameter 41 mm
Height 13.36 mm

WATER RESISTANCE
Up to 3 bar (30 metres)

DIAL
18-karat white, yellow and red gold dial, hand-engraved and hand-painted, set with emerald cabochons

HANDS
18-karat red gold

STRAP
Rubber strap

CLASP
18-karat red gold folding clasp

TOTAL CARAT WEIGHT/DIAMONDS/COLORED STONES
0.20 carats / Emerald