Timekeepers Secret

The elegance of a classic timepiece or a vintage-style timekeeper that channels the past, read up on the rage for contemporary in the world of vintage watches.

Timekeeper’s Secret

Patek Philippe Twenty 4

Introduced in 1999, the timepiece was quite a departure from the label’s traditional watches. Produced for the modern and active women, the first Twenty-4 reference, was initially constructed in robust stainless steel rather than gold. In fact, it was the first Patek Philippe steel ladies’ bracelet watch by the Swiss watchmaker. An ultra luxurious watch with its Top Wesselton diamond case and diamond dial, it is inspired by the lines of the vintage Patek Philippe Gondola watches. An undeniably contemporary piece, it is today available in 18k rose and white gold.

Rolex’s Oyster Perpetual Lady Datejust

Rolex’s Oyster Perpetual Lady Datejust

An archetype of the classic watch thanks to functions and aesthetics that never go out of fashion. Launched in 1945, it was the first self-winding waterproof chronometer wristwatch to display the date in a window at 3 o’clock on the dial, and consolidated all the major innovations that Rolex had contributed to the modern wristwatch until then. The Datejust has spanned eras while retaining the enduring aesthetic codes that make it so instantly recognizable.

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Bvlgari’s Tubogas

Bvlgari is a word most often associated with jewelry, snakes, and the Octo Finissimo Minute Repeater. But what some of you might not know is that Bvlgari has, for many years, made (and continues to make) one of the most iconic vintage ladies’ watches in history, the Tubogas. The Serpenti and Tubogas go hand in hand, as the first record of the Tubogas watch is from the 1940s, when the Italian jeweler released a serpent-form wristwatch that coiled around the wrist, with the movement concealed in the head of the snake. The tubular design soon became one of Bvlgari’s most iconic designs ever produced.

Van Cleef & Arpels Alhambra Bracelet Watch

Vancleef & Arpels Alhambra Bracelet Watch

“To be lucky you have to believe in luck,” said Jacques Arpels. Which is why good luck symbols and charms have been at the heart of many Van Cleef & Arpels creations since the 1920's. The watch is an array of precious materials, colors and cuts compatible with the Alhambra jewelry creations. Alhambra watch is available in yellow gold bezel; white mother-of-pearl dial, yellow gold crown, yellow gold, white and gray mother-of-pearl and onyx bracelet, yellow gold clasp and quartz movement.

Jaeger-LeCoultre Reverso

Jaeger Le Coulture Reverso

This watch might be among Jaeger-LeCoultre popular releases now, but back when it was first released, it was created not because of the desire for uniqueness but rather for practicality, particularly that of polo players. In the previous century when watches were still the main accessories used for time-telling, athletes needed to protect their precious timepieces that often sustained damages in one form or another. The Reverso, with a case that can be turned around to shield the dial, thus became a welcome innovation. Many decades later, the design has survived and continues to fascinate both longtime followers of the brand and casual watch consumers.

Hublot Big Bang Broderie

Hublot Big Bang Broderie

A refined piece that brings together two of the Swiss exquisite traditions: the technical complexity of mechanical watches and the renowned embroidery from the St. Gallen region. The end result is the impressive looking Big Bang Broderie watch which features lovely embroidered motifs on the dial, as well as on the bezel and the strap. In addition, the watch features sparkly diamond decorations on its cases. A truly unique timepiece that can even be the centerpiece of your outfit for its bold style and captivating embroidery.

Cartier Crash

Released in the year 1967, one may be inclined to think that it is a Salvador Dali-inspired piece, the design being inspired by arguably his most recognizable painting, The Persistence of Memory. The unconventional shape of the Cartier Crash, as well as its name, served as tribute to a important Cartier official back in the 1960s who died because of a car accident, or crash. A beautiful accident indeed, this classy piece that has only become more refined in the years since the original was released. It is now offered in more options than one, which include rose gold, white gold and diamond, all dazzling in their own way.

Chopard Happy Diamonds Watch

Chopard Happy Diamonds Watch

The watch model first debuted in 1976, featuring loose diamonds floating around in a free-flowing movement. Chopard unveiled a revolutionary concept in watchmaking: dancing diamonds seemingly free-floating on a dial. Dubbed Happy Diamonds, the idea was inspired by a waterfall the brand’s designer, Ronald Kurowski, had seen in Germany’s Black Forest. The diamonds are set against a black onyx face with rose gold accents. For the first time, moving diamonds could be appreciated between two crystal sapphire glasses on the face of the watch. If you're looking for a unique yet luxurious style, this is your pick.

Chitman Kanwar Ahuja

Writing for L’Officiel India.

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