The new Quatre Classique Tube creations take the iconic collection to a new level
Last year, Boucheron celebrated twenty years of Quatre, its new icon. A force of innovation, the Quatre continues to reinvent itself under the creative direction of Claire Choisne – taking a radical step forward with the strong, clean lines of the new Quatre Classique Tube creations.
Eponymously, the four distinctive patterns of Quatre – Grosgrain, Double Godron, Clou de Paris and the Line of Diamonds – are interpreted with a polished gold tube this time, imparting a sculptural quality to it.
The New Quatre Classique Tube
The standout piece in the collection is undoubtedly the Quatre Classique torque necklace with an oversized tubular design and a central clasp that is the Quatre motif paved with diamonds. The larger than life statement piece throws light on the strength and protection that the Quatre has come to symbolise.
The High Jewellery iteration of the necklace comes in white gold paved with grain-set diamonds in round, baguette and princess cuts, totalling 98.94 carats. The different diamond cuts reinterpret the four emblematic patterns: The Line of Diamonds remains as it is, while princess-cut stones define the Clou de Paris, baguette-cut diamonds form the Grosgrain, and the Double Godron is set with round diamonds.
The Quatre’s edgy attitude comes through in the new angular bracelet with a central motif – a striking addition to a wrist stack, and a style statement of its own when worn singularly. Another architectural creation that is described as totemic is a unique two-finger ring that appears as if the four Quatre patterns have slid onto two tubes of polished yellow gold, to rest on the centre of the hand.
The visual narrative of the Quatre Classique Tube line continues, with more subtle renditions of the Quatre Classique motif in two flexible neck rings, a bangle, a ring and a pair of small hoop earrings. Each one of them embodies the free spirit of the Quatre collection in hallmark colours and ergonomic shapes that ensure ease of movement when worn. The bangle and the solid neck ring, for example, feature concealed clasps that are smooth to the touch on the neck and wrist.
The Quatre Universe Expands
The Quatre universe is expanding with new styles in the Quatre Classique collection. A bolo tie necklace features a central tube formed by stacked Quatre patterns that glides along the chain. This allows the necklace to be worn in different lengths and styles, making it a versatile choice.
New earrings include motif studs with stems that can be unscrewed and transformed into clips. Style these clips by fastening them as a bejewelled accessory on your outfit. The final addition comes in the form of a more understated version of the the iconic Quatre Classique hoops, perfect for everyday wear.
Infused with the Past, with a Vision for the Future
The Quatre has come a long way since its story began in 2004. Last year, Boucheron took a leap into the future with the groundbreaking “Quatre 5D Memory” ring that encapsulates the sound of waves within. But it all began with a ring that united four archival patterns – Grosgrain, Double Godron, Clou de Paris and the Line of Diamonds – each honouring a different facet of Boucheron’s rich history.
The grosgrain is a ribbed silk fabric used to make ribbons, harking back to Frédéric Boucheron’s father, a textile merchant. A pattern that has been in Boucheron’s archives since the 1860s, the Grosgrain motif represents the Maison’s couture heritage with jewellery renowned for being supple and delicate like precious fabrics.
The classic Line of Diamonds executed by Boucheron since 1892 represents the savoir-faire of the Maison’s artisans, including stone selection and setting techniques, and symbolises eternity.
As for the Clou de Paris motif introduced into Boucheron’s design repertoire in 1911, the myriad of facets pays homage to the location of the Maison’s historic headquarters in Place Vendôme and the cobblestones of Paris. It is here in 1893 that Frédéric Boucheron opened the doors of Boucheron, becoming the first of the great contemporary jewellers there. Since then, Number 26 Place Vendôme has been home to Boucheron.
Finally, the Double Godron that first appeared in the Maison’s creations in the 1860s, resembles fluting in architecture – a source of inspiration for the Maison. The two rings melded into one, a symbol of binding, eternal love.
Drawing on the Maison’s heritage, the graphic, contemporary Quatre collection is a powerful distillation of what Boucheron stands for, in the past, present, and ever more.
Images courtesy of Boucheron, artwork by Curatedition. All rights reserved.
Related links:
Boucheron: From 26 Place Vendôme, and ever after
Boucheron Quatre: A Moment in Time, Eternalised
Boucheron Quatre: Magic Number 4
Boucheron Carte Blanche: Elemental
