Horological Masterpieces Reimagined

Beyond the wrist, these timekeepers transcend all traditional boundaries.

- ANANDHI GOPINATH

This year, the realm of horology witnessed an extraordinary tribute to creativity and craftsmanship with timepieces that go beyond the wrist, showcasing how leading watchmakers are redefining the concept of wearable timepieces. From Chanel's Mademoiselle's Sewing Tools collection, which transforms haute couture essentials into exquisite jewellery, to Van Cleef & Arpels' enchanting Bouton d'Or automaton, and Vacheron Constantin's versatile Grand Lady Kalla, these pieces exemplify the fusion of artistry and technical mastery. Additionally, the Hublot x Arsham Droplet and Piaget's Swing Sautoir necklace push the boundaries of traditional watchmaking, offering new and imaginative ways to experience timekeeping beyond the wrist.

VAN CLEEF & ARPELS

Every year, Parisian jeweller turned watchmaker Van Cleef & Arpels releases a table-top automaton clock that is so beautifully crafted you almost forget its primary function of telling the time. The new Bouton d'Or automaton continues this tradition, drawing inspiration from the '30s jewellery collection after which it is named. A fairy, her face suggested by a rose-cut diamond and clad in a flamboyant rose-gold gown trimmed with blue lacquer, pirouettes in an enchanted dance upon a blooming flowerbed. She twirls along with the beating of her plique-à-jour enamel wings, delicately clasping a briolette-cut sapphire between her fingers. The fruit of extensive research, the automaton required an exceptional degree of precision and technical prowess. In addition to perfecting myriad gold components by hand, various polishing procedures were necessary.

CHANEL