New Diamond-Set Watches From Tiffany & Co. Reinvent Its ’50s-Era Rope Motif
Hot on the heels of its recently released, Jean Schlumberger-inspired Blue Book high jewelry collection, Tiffany & Co. is back to mining the late designer’s archives. The late French designer who created many the American jewelers icons birthed in mid-20th century, remains an important fixture at the house, especially after it was acquired by LVMH, the French luxuryLuxuryA lifestyle defined by exceptional quality, craftsmanship, exclusivity, and sophistication, encompassing the finest products, services, and experiences that represent the highest standards of refinement and excellence.Go to Luxury Glossary conglomerate, in 2019. The latest theme to get a revival is Schlumberger’s rope design, which made its appearance at the beginning of Schlumberger’s career at Tiffany around 1956. This time around, it’s found its way onto the watches of the brand.
Twists of gold surround the case and dial in two concentric circles in a classic, but statement-making look. A ring of diamonds comes sandwiched in between. There are two sizes in 27 mm and 33 mm, both in 18-karat yellow goldYellow GoldA warm, precious alloy of pure gold mixed with copper and silver, used in watches and jewelry for its traditional luxurious look. Yellow gold has returned to fashion in vintage-inspiredGo to Yellow Gold Glossary but with two options for the dial in mother-of-pearl or glossy black. The smaller version comes with 38 diamonds totaling approximately 0.52 carats, while the larger is set with 39 diamonds totaling 0.9 carats. But for an added touch of Schlumberger’s whimsy, the company also crafted the yellow gold minutes hand in the rope design.
What’s new here is the movement. The pieces use Tiffany & Co.’s first solar-powered movement which has a power reserve of up to eight months when fully charged. It takes just two minutes of sunlight to charge. Even on a cloudy day, the company says it will still catch the light for power. It was developed in partnership with Swiss movement maker, La Joux-Perret, which has done work for other LVMH brands, as well as companies like Hermès.
With this new watch collection, Tiffany & Co. once again brings Jean Schlumberger’s storied legacy into the present, marrying his timeless design with modern, sustainable innovation. Decades later, Schlumberger’s imaginative spirit continues to power the house, now quite literally, by the light of the sun.
This article originally appeared in Robb Report US.