As we eagerly await the upcoming Chinese New Year, we present a curated selection of bejewelled watches adorned with gems that are believed to bring good luck and positive energy.
Join us in welcoming the Year of the Dragon with these dazzling creations.
Gem-set timepieces possess an enduring charm, transcending eras and genders. Beyond their glamorous allure, these creations illuminate the exquisite synergy between watchmaking and gemsetting craftsmanship. Embark on a journey into the realm of horological opulence as we delve into a curated selection of timepieces adorned with the brilliance of diamonds, the captivating allure of precious gemstones, and the timeless elegance of unique materials. From Bulgari‘s Octo Roma Precious Naturalia to Omega‘s celestial-inspired Constellation, each watch unfolds a narrative of craftsmanship, sophistication, and the symbolic significance woven into each carefully chosen element. Join us in exploring the profound stories encapsulated in these exceptional watches, where every facet resonates with symbolic significance.
Diamond
Diamonds, more than symbols of love, embody profound spiritual meanings grounded in their rarity, purity, and brilliance. Originating from the Greek ‘Adamas’ (unbreakable) and ‘Diaphanus’ (transparent), they symbolize invincibility and cleansing energies. Formed over billions of years, diamonds signify strength, fortitude, and courage, capable of dispelling negative energy. Often associated with purity and innocence, the white diamond universally represents eternity across diverse cultures.
Cartier Tank Française
The new Tank Française by Cartier undergoes discreet design refinements, infusing a modern essence. Slightly enlarged case sizes showcase contemporary appeal with an increased use of brushed satin finishes. A notable shift includes a singular large brushed end link, and the integrated crown contributes to a more streamlined profile. This medium steel model, powered by a quartz movement, elevates its allure with 26 brilliant-cut diamonds totalling 1.09 carats. Undoubtedly, it stands as a timeless and enduring rendition of the iconic Tank, seamlessly marrying classic and contemporary aesthetics.
Franck Muller Vanguard Slim Skeleton
Franck Muller’s Vanguard Slim Skeleton revolutionizes luxury sports watches, seamlessly blending high jewellery with contemporary design. The iconic tonneau case, adapted for modern trends, houses Franck Muller’s ultra-thin, self-winding movement, the MVT FM 708-SQ. This masterpiece, available in rose or white gold, features a mesmerizing skeleton dial adorned with 439 brilliant-cut diamonds, totalling an impressive 4.04 carats. The ethereal transparency, diamond-studded numerals, and curved contours create an edgy yet balanced aesthetic, showcasing Franck Muller‘s innovative leap into a new era of extraordinary watchmaking with an emphasis on opulent diamond craftsmanship.
Sapphire
Sapphires, with their captivating array of colours, have been cherished throughout history for their diverse variations, particularly in shades of blue. Beyond aesthetic appeal, these gemstones hold profound spiritual significance and have deep ties to various religions. Known as the “wisdom stone,” sapphires are believed to bring tranquillity and balance. The gem’s rich history, from Greek mythology to religious symbolism, underscores its timeless allure. Blue sapphires, ranging from pastel to royal blue, are thought to symbolize joy, wisdom, truth, and loyalty. Additionally, sapphires also come in various hues, each with believed to bring unique benefits. These vibrant gems are also sometimes used as amulets or talismans in various cultures.
H. Moser & Cie. Streamliner Tourbillon Sapphires
With only three pieces crafted annually, the H. Moser & Cie. Streamliner Tourbillon Sapphires is an exceptionally rare masterpiece. Adorned with 167 strategically placed baguette-cut sapphires, mirroring H. Moser & Cie.’s distinctive fumé dials, it boasts a halo of pure white diamonds encircling the azure stones. At its core, a one-minute flying tourbillon, paired with the brand’s patented double hairspring, ensures precision by countering gravity’s effects in two ways. This glamorous creation merges sophistication with technical excellence.
Corum Golden Bridge
Not many timepieces come close to being as iconic as Corum’s Golden Bridge – a creation that embodies both the beauty of watchmaking and architecture. Launched as an alternative to the original tonneau-shaped design, the Golden Bridge Round distils the essence of the Golden Bridge, reinterpreting it into a dazzling jewellery watch that is unique in construction. The round case and intricately engraved inline movement are enhanced by hollowed Roman numeral markers constructed out of thin slivers of resin. On this 39mm model, 48 rainbow-coloured sapphires totalling 1.23 carats encircle the bezel, in addition to white diamonds that accentuate the eye-catching brilliance of the watch.
Aventurine
Natural aventurine, a quartz mineral formed beneath the Earth’s surface, achieves its shimmering appearance from reflections caused by inclusions like mica and hematite. Admired since ancient times, these diverse shapes create a captivating, revered glittering effect. The name may come from its visual delight or the Italian word “avventura,” meaning chance. Known as the “gambler’s stone,” aventurine symbolizes luck and abundance, believed to bring prosperity and confidence. A unique quartz variety, aventurine appears in various colours like dark blue, green, red, purple, or yellow, often believed to signify positive energy, enthusiasm, and adventure while fostering creativity and inner peace. It is commonly thought to symbolize clarity, success, and serves as a source of positive energy and possibilities.
Parmigiani Fleurier’s Tonda Métropolitaine
Parmigiani Fleurier‘s Tonda Métropolitaine watch unveils the enchanting beauty of aventurine, reminiscent of a clear night sky adorned with copper inclusions, evoking the mesmerizing glow of starlight. The 36mm rose gold case, embellished with a diamond-set bezel and crowned with a blue sapphire cabochon, radiates sophistication. Gold indices and delta-shaped skeleton hands on the dial accentuate the opulent aesthetic. Powered by the PF310 automatic movement, this timepiece ensures a 50-hour power reserve. The exquisite finishing touch is the indigo blue Hermès Alligator leather strap, enhancing the refined and celestial-inspired design.
Omega Constellation
Omega’s latest 29mm Constellation model is a captivating fusion of luxury and celestial allure. The red aventurine stone dial, reminiscent of a star-studded sky, creates a striking contrast with the stainless steel and 18K Sedna™ gold case. Enhanced by a diamond-paved bezel and a complementing red leather strap, this timepiece emanates drama and timeless style. Powered by the OMEGA Co-Axial Master Chronometer Calibre 8700, visible through the scratch-resistant sapphire crystal, it features standout elements like a date window at 6 o’clock and anti-magnetic properties. This Constellation model is a masterful embodiment of elegance and precision, with a water resistance of up to 50 meters.
Ruby
Ruby, a gem from the corundum family, is often believed to be a symbol of royalty and also a representation of the sun. Its deep red hue and exceptional hardness make it one of the most sought-after gemstones, often associated with wealth and power. In Vedic astrology, linked to the sun’s energy, rubies enhance leadership, confidence, and well-being. Across cultures, rubies are celebrated as symbols of good luck, success, prosperity, and love.
Bulgari Diva’s Dream High Jewellery
The Bulgari Divas’ Dream High Jewellery watch, a vibrant tribute to life’s passion, showcases exquisite 18 kt rose gold craftsmanship inspired by the Dolce Vita. Uniting the realms of jewellery and watchmaking, it features a mesmerizing diamond-set fan-shaped motif reminiscent of the mosaics at Rome’s Caracalla Baths, embellished with 8 round brilliant-cut rubies totalling approximately 3.6 carats. The white mother-of-pearl dial, paired with a red alligator strap and hands, creates a captivating interplay of light and colour. Water-resistant up to 30 meters, this watch epitomizes elegance and joy.
Chopard Happy Sport
Chopard’s Happy Sport watch, an emblem of free spirit and modernity since 1993, introduces a 30mm model that harmonizes ethical rose gold with their proprietary Lucent Steel. Powered by the Chopard 09.01-C movement, the timepiece showcases dancing diamonds and three rubies symbolizing prosperity and joy. Enhanced by a glossy red alligator leather strap, the watch embodies happiness and elegance. Its exquisite finishing and transparent case-back, revealing the curved oscillating weight, add a touch of sophistication.
Tigers’ Eye
Tiger’s Eye, a captivating gemstone with a golden-brown hue resembling a tiger’s fur, has been cherished in jewellery for centuries. Originating in South Africa, it features a silky lustre and is believed to possess protective properties, shielding against negative energies, enhancing self-awareness, and promoting courage. With a hardness rating of 7 on the Mohs scale, it is durable and is occasionally used in watchmaking to craft distinctive watch dials.
Bulgari Octo Roma Precious Naturalia
Bulgari’s Octo Roma Precious Naturalia, an exquisite blend of Italian aesthetics and Swiss craftsmanship, features an octagonal 18 kt rose gold case with a unique tiger’s eye plate and a flying tourbillon. The watch, complemented by a one-of-a-kind tiger’s eye middle case and brown alligator strap, showcases Haute Horlogerie excellence. Powered by the mechanical BVL206 calibre, it includes a transparent case back and water resistance up to 50 meters, highlighting the fusion of luxury and precision.
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