Can’t take my eyes off you.
2020 can be framed as a year where time has redefined itself – how we spend our time, how we view the concept of time, and what time means to each of us. It is perhaps apt then, to usher in the last lap of the year with a focus on time, and the contraption that tells it so well.
A cherished and well-built timepiece tells the time without fail, but it doesn’t have to be limited by its function. This, the House of Harry Winston knows well. Combining their expertise in precious gems and fine watchmaking, we can feast our eyes on a timepiece so intricate and mesmerising, you will find yourself checking it out for more than just the time.
We are familiar with a kaleidoscope’s vibrant symmetry, calling to mind youthful memories of playing with one perhaps? First launched last year in Harry Winston’s high jewellery timepiece lineup, Kaleidoscope’s hypnotic details have charmed many. The series returns this year in six variations of 18-carat gold Premier models equipped with the latest timekeeping technology in the form of a flat silicon balance spring. Each Kaleidoscope timepiece is powered by a Swiss mechanical automatic movement with a 72-hour power reserve, and the sapphire crystal back allows you to observe the sleek 18-karat rose gold skeletonised rotor.
From the Premier case and its diamond-set lugs inspired by Harry Winston’s iconic Fifth Avenue flagship salon, to the signature house colour blue recalling Mr Winston’s legendary Hope Diamond acquired in 1949, the house codes are evident in the Kaleidoscope timepieces. Upholding Harry Winston’s legacy as the “The King of Diamonds”, each case features 57 brilliant-cut diamonds, while precious stones adorn the 6 different Premier Kaleidoscope dials. Housed in 36mm cases, the line exemplifies the house’s tradition of always finding new ways to animate a small watch face.
Blue Premier Kaleidoscope Automatic 36mm
The Premier Kaleidoscope Automatic 36mm models come in 4 vibrantly coloured variations, featuring dark blue, orange, red and light blue tones, all set to showcase the allure of mother-of-pearl with fresh perspectives.
The rich, dark blue version sets off what appears to be vivid blue, pink, turquoise and green gemstones but are actually intricate nacre sculptures piecing together a spellbinding dial. Its 18-carat gold base is first layered with white mother-of-pearl and then, a geometric lace crafted from a single piece of nacre, with extreme skill and precision by the house’s craftsmen.
On this immaculately constructed mother-of-pearl dial, the shine from the fascinating pink, turquoise and green raised cabochons crafted from thick pieces of mother-of-pearl, rival that of precious gemstones, adding volume and depth. 70 brilliant-cut diamonds add to the sparkle, while a pearly blue alligator leather strap corresponds to the deep blue details on the dial, and secure this alluring creation to the wrist with an 18-karat rose gold ardillon buckle set with brilliant-cut diamonds.
Premier Precious Kaleidoscope Automatic 36mm
The series also features two 36mm Premier Precious Kaleidoscope timepieces in white gold and rose gold respectively, each with its own characteristics and limited to 5 pieces each.
The white gold version features an intense dark blue appliqué of mother-of-pearl and semi-precious gemstones, such as turquoise and malachite, shaped into pear and marquise-shaped cabochons. Completing this limited-edition timepiece are blue beaded mother-of-pearl cabochons, 72 electric-blue Paraiba tourmalines, six green marquise-cut emeralds, 12 pear-cut diamonds and a dazzling touch of 40 brilliant-cut diamonds.
The 18K rose gold version features a dazzling combination of colours built upon its yellow nacre backdrop. The enchanting dial is a creative display of citrine, blue and white mother-of-pearl cabochons, carnelian, six marquise-cut orange spessartites, six pear-cut diamonds, 12 fiery-red marquise-cut rubies, six elongated baguette-cut diamonds, six brilliant-cut green tsavorites, and a flurry of 150 brilliant-cut diamonds.
Explore the Premier Kaleidoscope collection at your nearest Harry Winston boutique.
Images courtesy of Harry Winston, artwork by Curatedition. All rights reserved.
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