These avian inspirations make time take flight, combining multiple modes of artistic diligence with enamel work, gem setting, sculpting, and engraving. They are works of art that perfectly reflect nature, giving women the sense of gratification and pride that only a true piece of wearable art can bring.
Cartier Tourbillon watch ($221,000) features a kingfisher in flight on the dark-purple and Tahitian mother-of-pearl dial, bedecked with 210 brilliant-cut diamonds for the wings and 80 cognac-colored diamonds for the body (and an emerald eye). It is finished with blue, orange, yellow, and white enamel. The watch houses the Geneva Seal-certified 9458 MC Caliber with flying tourbillon created in-house by Cartier. Just 60 pieces will be made.
Van Cleef & Arpels elegant swan watch ($270,000) is part of the From the Earth to the Moon Constellation collection. It is one of four timepieces that are sold as a complete set with an Extraordinary Cabinet, created in a limited edition of 22 sets ($510,000 per set). This watch is crafted in 18k white gold with enamel work, gold sculpting, and diamonds.
LeVian’s Into the Wild Peacock watch ($6,995) features a diamond bezel and a raised diamond dial, set with five carats of diamonds, tsavorites, and blue sapphires to form the peacock in all its feathered glory. The watch is finished with a genuine stingray strap. In a limited edition of 500 pieces. (This article by Roberta Naas appears in similar format the September issue of Ocean Drive Magazine.)