WATCH & JEWELRY /
SIHH＆BASEL
January 21, 2015
Baselworld 2014: Timepieces, the Jewelry for Your Wrist
Baselworld 2014
Watches: Jewelry for Your Wrist
Baselworld, the world's largest watch and jewelry trade show, draws not only male watch enthusiasts but also elegant ladies and fashionistas, all eager to discover the latest timepieces. It's an annual pilgrimage for those who appreciate horology and adornment.
Text by KEIKO Homma
Women's Watch Trends: The Rise of the Color Jewelry Watch
Today's discerning women are no longer satisfied with designs that are merely scaled-down versions of men's models. They seek watches crafted specifically for them, designed to enhance their personal radiance. After all, a watch is jewelry that graces the wrist.
This year, a prominent trend was the emergence of stunning jewelry watches, reflecting the influence of high jewelry and the growing popularity of colored gemstones. These timepieces, adorned with colored diamonds and stones, are so captivating they almost make you forget their primary function of telling time.
Simultaneously, iconic watches featuring a brand's signature motifs continue to captivate women. Their instantly recognizable designs are easily integrated into personal style, making them perfect for everyday wear. Many of these are long-standing bestsellers, ideal choices for a first timepiece from a beloved brand.
While men's watches showed a slight trend towards smaller sizes this year, many women's models, often labeled 'unisex,' remained generously proportioned. However, the shift towards smaller sizes is undeniable. Couture houses were quick to introduce feminine, small-faced watches, a trend soon followed by sensitive jewelers, resulting in elegant, petite timepieces reminiscent of vintage designs.
The increasing sophistication of female watch enthusiasts is evident in the rise of ladies' complications. For those who find diamond-embellished men's watches insufficient, stylish complications designed specifically for women have come to the fore. Crafting intricate mechanical movements into a wearable, elegantly sized watch is no small feat, making these ladies' complications exceptionally satisfying.
Despite these emerging trends, watches remain distinct from seasonal fashion. They are heirlooms, cherished for a lifetime and passed down through generations, unlike clothing. Today's women seek timepieces that embody a sense of newness while possessing an enduring beauty that never fails to delight.
MENS
World Time
Divers
Small Watches
WOMENS
High Jewelry Watches
Iconic Watches
Small Face
Ladies' Complications
Baselworld 2014
Watches: Jewelry for Your Wrist
High Jewelry Watches
Watches adorned with colorful gemstones continue to evolve. Here, we present five exquisite jewelry watches that transcend mere luxury, offering unparalleled brilliance.
Graff
The Hallucination
A Premier Watch from a Newcomer Brand at Baselworld
With over 110 carats of multi-colored diamonds, this piece was likely the most expensive watch at Baselworld 2014. Created by Graff, a leading London-based diamond jeweler, its entry into the watch pavilion signifies their serious commitment to horology. The rare brilliance of pink, yellow, and blue diamonds evokes the sheer miracle of these gemstones.
Quartz, Multi-colored Diamonds, 5.5 Billion Yen
Graff Tokyo Salon
Tel. 03-6267-0811
Chopard
Animal World Collection
A Charming Smile from an Adorable Animal Motif
Chopard has consistently created the 'Animal World' collection, inspired by creatures from around the globe, since its 150th anniversary. This new piece features an endearing monkey, seemingly reaching for fruit made of vibrant sapphires. A clever detail reveals the crown when the monkey's left arm is raised. Beyond its playful design, the watch showcases the exceptional craftsmanship akin to high jewelry.
Automatic, 18KRG Case, Brown Diamonds, Orange Sapphires, Tsavorites, Emeralds, Onyx, MOP Dial, 64.53 Million Yen
Chopard Japan Press
Tel. 03-5524-8922
Chaumet
Hortensia
Hydrangeas in a Striking Red Hue
Inspired by the diverse varieties of hydrangeas, including those native to Japan, the 'Hortensia' collection depicts fantastical blooming flowers. This exquisite high jewelry watch dramatically showcases large, abundant flower clusters crafted from a total of 119.56 carats of rubies and deep red rhodolites. Chaumet's signature artistry is evident in these hydrangeas, which blend traditional naturalism with a contemporary, graphical design suited for modern women.
Quartz, 18KPG Case, Diamonds, Rubies, Pink Sapphires, Rhodolites, 34mm Case Diameter, Price on Request
Chaumet
Tel. 03-3613-3188
Boucheron
Epure Urchin
A Sea Jewel Transformed into a Luxurious Timepiece
From the latest 'Épure d'Art' watch collection comes a sophisticated timepiece featuring intelligent blue sapphires. The brand's iconic 'godron' and cabochon motifs are masterfully combined to create this exotic urchin. The automatic movement is supplied by Girard-Perregaux. The case back is engraved with the phrase, 'Je ne sonne que les heures heureuses' (I only chime the happy hours).
Automatic, 18KWG Case, Diamonds, Blue Sapphires, Alligator Strap, 41mm Case Diameter, 10,314,000 Yen
Boucheron Customer Service
Tel. 03-5537-2203
Dior
Dior Grand Soir Origami
A Unique Interpretation of Japonisme
The 'Dior Grand Soir' collection, inspired by the intricate structure of dress panniers, now features a unique piece drawing from the Japanese art of origami. The three-dimensional design on the mother-of-pearl dial, accented with delicately set baguette-cut spessartite garnets, perfectly captures the geometric beauty of origami, an art form increasingly appreciated for its artistic merit. The automatic movement is by Zenith.
Automatic, 18KPG Case, Pink Sapphires, Spessartite Garnets, MOP Dial, Satin & Leather Strap, 33mm Case Diameter, 22,572,000 Yen
Christian Dior Timepieces
Tel. 0570-200-088
Baselworld 2014
Watches: Jewelry for Your Wrist
Iconic Watches
Iconic watches, subtly incorporating brand symbols for an added touch of luxury, have always captivated women's hearts.
Bulgari
Lucea
A Talked-About Piece Meaning 'Light' in Italian
This timepiece, distinctly Bulgari, features a simple round case and a stylish bracelet finished with the brand's iconic Serpenti motif. The latest iteration incorporates a pink stone as an accent. Serpenti, inspired by the snake symbolizing 'eternity' and 'wisdom,' is an enduring collection favored by Elizabeth Taylor. This jewelry-inspired model, in the same vein, offers a striking contrast between the luxurious guilloché-patterned black dial and pink gold.
Automatic, 18KPG Case, Diamonds, Pink Stone, 33mm Case Diameter, 4.59 Million Yen
Bulgari Japan
Tel. 03-6362-0100
Louis Vuitton
Tambour Monogram Forever MM
Proudly Displaying a Diamond Monogram
This eye-catching design features Louis Vuitton's beloved Monogram Flower, lavishly set with diamonds. The luxurious dial combines a mirror-polished pink gold finish with guilloché-patterned mother-of-pearl. Available in a 35mm medium size, it also comes in a 28mm small size with a quartz movement. The clearly defined, sparkling Monogram Flower makes this a watch to be worn with pride.
Automatic, 18KPG Case, Diamonds, MOP, Nude Satin Strap, 35mm Case Diameter, 4,147,200 Yen
Louis Vuitton Customer Service
Tel. 0120-00-1854
Gucci
Horsebit Watch
A Motif Inspired by Equestrian Pursuits
Gucci's Horsebit first appeared in the 1950s, drawing inspiration from the world of equestrianism, a pastime of Florentine nobility. The bit, a piece of horse tack, was elegantly redesigned and incorporated into shoes, bags, and jewelry. In 2014, this iconic motif was reinterpreted for the watch collection, resulting in a stylish new piece perfect for coordinating with accessories and other jewelry.
Quartz, SS Case, 92 Diamonds, MOP Dial, 28mm Case Diameter, 745,200 Yen
Luxury Timepieces Japan
Tel. 03-5766-2030
Chopard
Happy Sport Tourbillon Joaillerie
The Joyful Dance of Moving Diamonds
The 'Happy Diamonds,' featuring moving diamonds that dance freely across the dial, were born in 1976. Their playful sparkle naturally draws the eye to the wrist. The 'Happy Sport' collection adapts this concept into an active watch suitable for day and night wear. This year, the high jewelry model, lavishly adorned with diamonds, garnered significant attention.
Manual Wind, 18KWG Case, Diamonds, Alligator Strap, 42mm Case Diameter, 46,796,400 Yen
Chopard Japan Press
Tel. 03-5524-8922
Baselworld 2014
Watches: Jewelry for Your Wrist
Small Faces
Small-sized watches offer a gentle, feminine feel. They are versatile, pairing well with both Western dresses and traditional Japanese attire.
Boucheron
Reflet
A Sophisticated Rectangular Design
This signature Boucheron collection features the distinctive double godron (vertical stripes) motif. The interchangeable straps can be easily swapped by the wearer. The case back bears the inscription, 'Je ne sonne que les heures heureuses' (I only chime the happy hours). A secret detail reveals a mark depicting Place Vendôme when you breathe onto the specially treated anti-reflective sapphire crystal.
Quartz, SS Case, Diamonds, Cabochon Sapphire, Patent Leather Strap, 29.5 x 18.0mm Case Size, 928,800 Yen
Boucheron Customer Service
Tel. 03-5537-2203
Louis Vuitton
Empreinte PM Yellow Gold Diamond Bronze
Details Inspired by Trunks
This minimalist watch subtly incorporates details inspired by the hardware, locks, and rivets of the travel trunks that founded the Maison. The lugs connecting to the strap evoke the corner plates of a trunk, while the silver opal dial, featuring a padded pattern, is accented with sparkling rivet motifs. This exquisite piece, with its perfectly proportioned small form factor, is packed with Louis Vuitton's signature symbols, ensuring timeless appeal.
Quartz, 18KYG Case, Diamonds, Powder Satin Strap, 23 x 23mm Case Size, 2,070,360 Yen
Louis Vuitton Customer Service
Tel. 0120-00-1854
Hermès
Faubourg
Femininity Woven with Slender Gold
With a case diameter of 15.5mm, this new model is arguably the smallest in Hermès' watch collection. The gold bracelet is remarkably supple, fitting snugly against the skin, making it easy to forget you're wearing it. The sensation of wearing a delicate piece of jewelry is perfect for women who always want to feel feminine. It offers subtle elegance during the day, complements evening wear, and is suitable for traditional Japanese occasions. This is a watch you'll want immediately.
Quartz, 18KPG Case, Diamonds, 15.5mm Case Diameter, 1.62 Million Yen
Hermès Japon
Tel. 03-3569-3300
Dior
La Mini D de Dior Miroir
Shiny Leather Radiates Sensual Brilliance
'Miroir' means mirror in French. This 19mm watch case is paired with a glossy, mirror-finished leather strap. It also comes with a black patent calfskin strap in addition to the yellow gold color. The design is by Victoire de Castellane, creator at Dior's fine jewelry division. This watch cleverly appeals to women's appreciation for small, charming objects.
Quartz, SS Case, Diamonds, MOP Dial, Yellow Gold Mirror Leather Strap, 19mm Case Diameter, 544,320 Yen
Christian Dior Timepieces
Tel. 0570-200-088
Baselworld 2014
Watches: Jewelry for Your Wrist
Ladies' Complicated Watches
To satisfy women who appreciate mechanical watches, elegant complications are essential. Here are five exquisite timepieces that excel in both aesthetics and mechanics.
Patek Philippe
Calatrava Moon Phase Ref. 7121/1
The Phases of the Moon Adorning Your Wrist
A new addition to the collection of refined mechanical watches for women, this model features a moon phase complication. The silver-white grained dial displays a disc that tracks the lunar cycle over its 29.5-day period. This intricate complication, capturing the celestial movements, is presented in a conveniently sized case, making it a truly exceptional piece and a potential lifelong companion.
Manual Wind, 18KYG Case, Diamonds, 33mm Case Diameter, 5,454,000 Yen
Patek Philippe Japan Information Center
Tel. 03-3255-8109
Harry Winston
Harry Winston Midnight Diamond Drop 39mm
Diamonds Shower Down on a Starry Night
Unlike traditional moon phase layouts, this new model features a small aperture where the moon appears as if amidst a shower of diamonds. The dial is finished in midnight blue sunray satin, adorned with an enameled night sky and polished moon and stars. A total of 305 carefully selected diamonds are used. Its sophisticated design exudes an air of refined elegance, promising a sense of fulfillment with every glance at your wrist.
Quartz, 18KWG Case, Diamonds, Shiny Midnight Blue Alligator Strap, 39.3mm Case Diameter, Available from 2015, 3,888,000 Yen
Harry Winston Customer Information Desk
0120-346-376
Breguet
Queen of Naples Day/Night 8999
A Dramatic Day and Night Display on the Dial
The 'Queen of Naples' collection revives the wristwatch originally commissioned by Caroline Murat, Queen of Naples, from the genius watchmaker Abraham-Louis Breguet, presented in a contemporary style. In 2014, a model featuring a luxurious day and night mechanism garnered significant attention. A disc completing a 24-hour cycle depicts the sun and moon, indicating day and night. The changing expressions between the sunlit day and the moonlit night add to the enjoyment of observing the watch.
Automatic, 18KWG Case, Diamonds, Satin Strap, 42.5 x 32mm Case Size, 25,088,400 Yen
Breguet Boutique Ginza
Tel. 03-6254-7211
Girard-Perregaux
Cat's Eye Day & Night
The Movements of the Heavens Etched in Pink Gold
This captivating mechanical watch features a brilliant 22K pink gold day & night indicator. The 20K pink gold disc for the day/night display is finished with different polishing techniques to depict the sun, moon, and stars. The meticulous craftsmanship of this esteemed brand is evident in the mother-of-pearl guilloché dial and the teardrop-shaped diamond indices, offering both jewelry-like splendor and the luxury of a Swiss-made manufacture movement.
Automatic, 18KPG Case, Diamonds, MOP Dial, 35.44 x 30.44mm Case Size, 3.24 Million Yen
Sowind Japan
Tel. 03-5211-1791