SIGNED VAN CLEEF & ARPELS, UNIQUE PIECE, NO. 1/1, REF. HH33096, CASE NO. 3'560'109, CIRCA 2014

This unique piece No. 1/1 by the revered house of Van Cleef & Arpels is a truly exquisite creation of great flair and imaginative design. Possibly made as a special order for a collector of antique jades, the stylised carved dragon takes its inspiration from Chinese archaic jades. Shaped to fit the curve of the dial and mounted on a black enamel background it contrasts strikingly with the white gold and diamond-set case boasting approximately 155 white diamonds totalling 4.5 carats. The tradition of creating jewels by mixing both ancient and modern styles in one object dates back to the 1920’s when several of the world’s greatest jewellers began to produce pieces inspired by and even incorporating artefacts from the ancient world. The present watch is a particularly successful modern interpretation of this highly admired style. The visual appeal is further enhanced by the visible one-minute tourbillon within a diamond-set surround, one of the great complications of haute horlogerie.

Symbolising China’s rich cultural past in harmony with watchmaking excellence this unique mechanical work of art has a timeless appeal that transcends fashion – the mark of the true design excellence of Van Cleef & Arpels.