The mark of a truly iconic watch: when its design remains distinct and looks right, be it past, present or future – even after its maker hits the refresh button on it.
The horology equivalent of an It bag from the 2000s, Chanel’s J12 ceramic watch – first launched 19 years ago – gets its most extensive facelift this year with the likes of a smaller, refined crown, a more curvilinear (and elegant) profile, and an upgraded automatic movement that will be introduced to all new models. The latest to hit stores sees the sporty icon get a pretty yet modern upgrade with diamonds for indexes. J12 ceramic and steel watch on matching bracelet, Chanel Fine Jewellery. Wool tweed coat, Chanel.
Designed in the ’70s as a lady’s cocktail watch, Piaget’s Limelight Gala gets even more glamorous with an iridescent gold bracelet (the texture is the result of a hand-engraving technique from the ’60s), a deep green malachite dial, and a new gem-setting on the bezel and lugs that allows for larger sized diamonds all across them. Limelight Gala 18K pink gold watch with diamonds, Piaget. Wool suit and silk shirt, Fendi.
Easily Bvlgari’s most recognisable timepiece that dates back to the ’60s, the Serpenti gets a cool, Art Deco-esque spin-off in the form of the Serpenti Spiga, distinguished by its brown ceramic bracelet that’s been metallised to achieve a high gloss finish. Serpenti Spiga ceramic and 18K rose gold watch with diamonds on matching bracelet, Bvlgari. Celine by Hedi Slimane wool sweater, Celine.
For the first time, Hermes adorns the dial of its famously handsome Cape Code with a graphic, spinel-set anchor chain motif from its 1938 archives, and complements it with diamonds on the timepiece’s distinct square-in-rectangle case. Cape Cod Chaine d’Ancre steel watch with diamonds on alligator skin strap, and wool and leather jacket, Hermes.
The classic Panthere de Cartier from Cartier reveals its tiniest – and possibly chicest – rendition ever in its 36-year history with the case measuring a coolly demure 25mm by 21mm. Panthere de Cartier 18K pink gold watch with diamonds on matching bracelet, Cartier. Wool coat and silk shirt, Bottega Veneta.
