L E S A M B A S S A D E U R S / M A G A Z I N E N 째 12
LES AMBASSADEURS PRESENT: A M A Z I N G T R AV E L S WAT C H M A K I N G :
A N E L EG A N T DA N C E C H R O M AT I C J E W E L L E R Y
NEW BOUTIQUE: W E L C O M E T O S T. M O R I T Z
Joachim Ziegler CEO Les Ambassadeurs
Edito rial
My most recent travels took me to Myanmar, to a world where not very long ago, time stood still. This fascinating country is bursting with scenes that we know only from books or historical films: ox-drawn carts, temples, archaic production methods, markets with sizzling colours, unknown scents, a total absence of cash dispensers and communication infrastructure, means of transport so slow it is almost surreal, and perfect peace everywhere. Leaving our daily lives so caught up in a frantic whirl of activity and technology for an environment like this is akin to taking the greatest imaginable leap back in time. This is a world in which, more often than not, time as we know it seems not to exist. In this country that was so long cut off from its neighbours and whose population and economy developed surrounded by closely monitored frontiers, not only does time stand still in its tracks, but even the precise measurement of time no longer seems necessary. The enormous progress in transport and communication of the past centuries has made it necessary to achieve an exact measurement of time and has encouraged watchmakers to demonstrate ever greater precision – because only accurate, reliable timekeeping can determine a location accurately, thereby facilitating the discovery of other continents and nations. And since our means of communication and transport now enable us to travel great distances, it is essential that we be in possession of uniform notions of time. This phenomenon is described with perfect clarity by Dava Sobel in his book “Longitude�, a travel novel that is ideal for watch fans setting off to discover foreign countries. We are delighted to invite you to join us on an extraordinary voyage and look forward to sharing amazing destinations with you, alongside the most recent trends in the realm of watches and jewellery. PS: Do you ever dream about a new watch without having time to find a model that suits you? Our website now offers the first multi-brand watch search engine, thus enabling you to find the watch of your dreams in just a few clicks.
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Contents |
issue 12
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01
Editorial
04
An elegant dance
06
Chromatic luxury
08
Must-haves for watchmaking fans
Wa t c h T r e n d s :
Jewellery Trends: Trendy Accessories:
Bou tique: 10
Les Ambassadeurs on Top of the World
12
Earth, Mother of Time
16
Departure
22
The call of the open sea
26
Conquering the skies
30
Like a modern-day adventurer
34
Rendezvous with watchmaking fans
36
Geneva 38 Zurich 39 Lugano 40 St. Moritz
41
Nuno Da Costa
Earth:
Photoshoot: Sea: Air:
How to spend it:
E s pac e C o n na i s s e u r : People:
Portfolio:
FHH: 50
The ABCs of Fine Watchmaking Wa t c h e s & M o r e :
52 80
Best of the watch models
Next issue preview and credits
L.A _WATCH TRENDS Text: Marie de Pimodan-Bugnon
An elegant dance
Women prefer the charm of discretion to a style that is over-ostentatious and quickly out of fashion. Between timeless icons and legendary watches revisited, ladies’ watches embody a firm desire to get back to basics that involves honouring enduring aesthetic and mechanical values.
From left to right: Audemars Piguet, Cartier, Vacheron Constantin
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T
hese watches bear witness to the passing of time but the latter has no hold on them. Is it the softness of their lines that makes their elegance unalterable? Far from being outdated, ladies’ watches that led the dance of yesteryear are today continuing their seductive game that proves completely spellbinding, like a refined trap in which one is willingly ensnared. At Cartier, victims willingly allow themselves to be grasped by the claws of a diamond panther. The watch and jewellery maker thus reinvents its feline icon with the Baguette Panthère watch, a model that combines mechanical reliability with a manually wound movement and the jewellery skill of its gem-setters. Nestled in the animal’s paws, this watch jewel with its fierce nature vividly illustrates the modernity of the brand’s emblematic codes. At Vacheron Constantin, this return to key values can be found in its Patrimony Lady collection. Created in the purest
WATCH TRENDS_ L.A
watchmaking tradition and bearing the prestigious Hallmark of Geneva, the Patrimony Traditionelle is a icon in the watchmaking heritage of the Geneva manufacturer, repeatedly interpreted through the decades and yet as youthful as ever. With its slim 33 mm pink or white gold case hemmed with diamonds, the ladies’ model is a concentrated blend of classic sobriety combined with a state-of-the-art mechanism embodied by the handwound Calibre 1400 movement. Jaeger-LeCoultre is also part of this revival of timeless beauties with the Reverso, a great classic revisited for lovers of this legendary collection. Combining the ever-useful dual-time function with the elegance of an eminently feminine, pure design, the Grande Reverso Lady Ultra Thin Duetto Duo is the perfect embodiment of modern feminine watchmaking – with roots firmly anchored in the brand heritage, along with aesthetics and mechanics entirely in tune with our era.
Purity and refinement Franck Muller, which had accustomed us to greater eccentricity, revises its classics with the round Infinity model featuring volumes and graphic design intended to adorn the wrists of several generations of elegant women. Meanwhile, Audemars Piguet’s Royal Oak has been displaying its octagonal geometry in the watchmaking world for 41 years. To such an extent that even the most novice of amateurs would instantly recognise it. Expressed in countless different ways over the decades, it now appears in a 33 mm steel model equipped with a quartz movement. In harmony with the same creative logic, the Première watch, the first Chanel watch created exclusively for women in 1987, is reinvented in a version that is more graceful and feminine than ever, now extended with a steel bracelet. Its shape, which is directly inspired by the stopper of the No, 5 bottle and the lines of the famous Place Vendôme in Paris,
recalls the simplicity and aestheticism of the Thirties that were so dear to Mademoiselle Chanel’s heart. Models in countless variations, infinitely reinvented collections … it has never been clearer that the icons of yesterday are also those of today. With, perhaps, a touch of additional modernity that so greatly enhances their appeal – as well as, in some instances, a little extra mechanical something that makes all the difference. This is doubtless because watchmakers have fully grasped the fact that women want it all: heritage and innovation; the refinement of gold and diamonds; as well as the assurance of technical excellence.
From left to right: Jaeger-LeCoultre, Franck Muller, Chanel
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Text: Marie de Pimodan-Bugnon Photo: Denis Hayoun
Chromatic luxury
Jewellery creativity is expressed in a burst of colours and a flurry of precious stones showcased by unusually generous volumes. A technicolour anthem to elegance.
tured pearls admired for their perfect roundness, “Baroque” pearls feature an irregular appearance – a characteristic that makes them truly unique and provides scope for creating highly original jewellery, such as a superb jewellery set composed of a necklace and earrings in the Via Gesù collection.
ure wintry shades have bowed out to make way for a festival of enchanting hues. Amethysts and rubies, pink tourmalines and diamonds, garnets and sapphires in a variety of colours. Jewellers’ creativity paints a broad chromatic palette, revealing subtly graded shades ranging from pastels to more tangy variations.
Incandescent diamonds For Pasquale Bruni, colour and volume interact in an extravagant and modern way in step with unbridled creativity. The Bon Ton line presented last year reinvents the beauty of quartz in a new variation named Bonheur. Smoked quartz invites admirers to explore its mysteries, while white quartz reveals the milky reflections of the motherof-pearl beneath. Like precious talismans, the magnificent gems cut out like exuberant flowers exalt the elegance of the pink gold rings delicately rimmed with diamonds. Incandescent and dazzling, the latter are indeed a recurrent feature in these jewellery collections, as if to accentuate the colourful radiance of the precious or
P
At Mimi, the colours are soft, tender and changeable with the shimmering reflections of mother-of-pearl. The Italian jeweller, impelled by the creative inspiration of Giovanna Broggian, places the refinement of “Baroque” pearls at the heart of resolutely modern creations. Contrary to the classic cul-
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semi-precious stones. The masterjewellers of the Les Ambassadeurs boutiques also pay tribute to colour and to diamonds with an enchanting jewellery set adorned with diamonds and pink tourmalines. A regal necklace, earrings, a ring and bracelet worthy of a tale from Arabian Nights sparkle and shine to sublimate feminine charms. Precious watercolours At Pomellato, a jeweller renowned for offering creations in enchantingly vivid, tangy shades, colour is once again the cornerstone of its perpetually fresh, joyful collections. Distinguished by the extremely slim cut of its coloured stone, the Colpo di Fulmine line creates an extremely romantic transparent effect. Like tiny watercolours framed by a gemstone diadem, the amethysts, rubies, London blue topazes, tsavorites, garnets and blue sapphires combine to offer subtle chromatic variations. One is irresistibly drawn towards a blissful immersion into this generously inventive and jewellery world filled with sensorial delights.
From left to right and from top to bottom. Mimi necklace and earrings Pasquale Bruni necklace, earrings and rings Pomellato earrings and rings Les Ambassadeurs necklace, earrings, bracelet and ring
Must-haves for watchmaking The watchmaking cult does not stop at timepieces – true aficionados frequently want more. A small selection of exclusive, targeted objects designed to make time stand still and assuage the passion of the most demanding connoisseurs.
vening dress mandator Somewhere between style and refinement, cufflinks are the must-have chic touch of style for both men and women concerned with the smallest details. Les Ambassadeurs revive the heyday of this useful, aesthetically pleasing accessory by offering a pair of cufflinks in white gold set with diamonds. rom the intellect to the art of writing Because the art of writing is the very extension of thought, Montegrappa has come up with an idea that is both brilliant and original in creating a writing instrument that illustrates the direct connection between the mind and the physical act. The result is the Brain •en created in collaboration with famous American neurologist, Richard Restak. Available in a limited edition in silver or gold, the ballpoint and fountain pen portray a stylised outline of the brain, while the clip represents the spinal cord. A million dollar stronghold Sleep in peace your watches and jewellery are safe. The Fortress€ safe created by Dƒttling will be the most secure safe to date. The German manufacturer also offers an insurance policy covering its contents up to the value of a million dollars. Available in two security versions, the upper part of the safe is equipped with two Colosimo winders which each contain three watches. The lower section has eight individual winders, a jewellery drawer and a cigar cellar. A luxurious stronghold with an elegant design in padded calf leather.
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TRENDY ACCESSORIES_ L.A Text: Marie de Pimodan-Bugnon
In praise of mechanical refinement ‌ and service Boasting pure lines, proven resistance, timeless elegance, exclusive services and superior quality engineering, the new Vertu TI telephone operating on an Android platform is the ultimate Smartphone. With a titanium structure for optimal weight, it features a combination of rose gold, ceramic and leather inserts. Equipped with the Vertu Key, it adds instant access to exclusive advantages and services to the famous concierge service. The kind of object one simply cannot do without.
fans A box for rewinding time s Gucci and Scatola del Tempo have partnered to create this luxurious, refined box. Handmade, in chocolate coloured leather, the Gucci Time Box is beautifully finished and signed Guccissima. Connoisseurs will be sure to appreciate the quality and reliability of the winding mechanism perfected by the Italian specialist in watch winders. Don’t miss it in select Gucci boutiques. Other accessories by Scatola de Tempo are also available from Les Ambassadeurs boutiques.
Capturing the time i It is not used for telling the time, but merely to measure the passing of time, and materialise it in a way that is both sensitive and poetic. The Hourglass by Ikepod captures time in order to restore it the simplest possible way. Instead of sand, yellow gold-plated steel nanoballs fall inside the borosilicate glass structure designed by Marc Newson. The small model runs out in 10 minutes and the large one in 60. This is a total must-have in the realm of contemporary design.
This is a belt buckle! i The result of a partnership between Roland Iten and Bugatti, this belt buckle is made of rose gold and titanium and is available in a 22-piece limited edition endowed with a technical sophistication to rival the most beautiful watchmaking movements. Be it bridges, wheels or pinions‌ more than 100 parts are required to create this mechanical buckle that can be adjusted to any belt. From cars to watchmaking, buckling up has never been so appealing.
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L.A _BOUTIQUE Text: Keith W. Strandberg
St. Moritz Boutique
Les Ambassadeurs on Top of the World
I
n the winter wonderland that is the exclusive ski village of St. Moritz, Les Ambassadeurs reopened its fabulously redesigned boutique on the main street, Via Serlas 29. Small in comparison to the other Les Ambassadeurs stores in Switzerland, the St. Moritz boutique is warm, cozy and welcoming, thanks to a design ethos that says “chalet chic�, aiming to strike a balance between luxury and sporty comfort. Having attended the grand reopening of the boutique in December of 2012, I can personally attest that Les Ambassadeurs has succeeded in its mission.
BOUTIQUE_ L.A
The new face of the St. Moritz boutique.
Two Levels of Watch and Jewelry Excellence In St. Moritz, Les Ambassadeurs certainly lives up to its claim of “The Leading House of Leading Names,” as exclusive sparkling jewelry and luxury watches fill the windows and showcases on both floors. “St. Moritz is like the top of the world, which is actually their slogan,” says Joachim Ziegler, CEO, Les Ambassadeurs.” To be represented in this village is a marriage between two names that is very important. To be able to serve our customers where they live and where they go on business trips, but to also be with them when they are on vacation, is also very important us.” To accomplish this transformation, the boutique was closed for three months while the space was completely renovated. Inspired by the mountains, the snow and the chalets surrounding St. Moritz, Les Ambassadeurs spared no expense to make sure the design and the finishing were top notch, worthy of St. Moritz. Designed by acclaimed Bollinger Architektur & Design, the boutique includes a mixture of Italian Botticino limestone marble floors with walls of crushed Botticino, stone and curved rosewood inserts mixed with tinted Engadine plaster. Behind the reception desk, the walls are covered with fabric and animal hides, a nod to the mountain ruggedness that St. Moritz embodies. Two spectacular rounded pendant lamps from Santa & Cole light up the entry, while roaring fireplaces are on both floors, ensuring a warm welcome. The result is a very open, airy, light space that feels rich yet inviting. Downstairs is where the majority of the watches and jewelry are on display, including the windows in front, while on the first floor, which only partially covers the ground floor, features a very comfortable Espace Connaisseur with a plush and inviting couch, a watch library and display space for exceptional timepieces and jewelry. “The St. Moritz boutique is different, unique, because of its location,” explains Joachim Ziegler. “The design has
been adapted to this mountainous surrounding, and it is much more relaxed. People in St. Moritz are there on vacation, so they are in a very relaxed, sporty mood, so they don’t want to dress up. In our new boutique, you can mingle by the fire, have a drink and look at watches. If it’s snowy and cold outside, it’s warm in here, so you can sit by the fire and relax.” Next time you are in St. Moritz, either for the skiing, the polo on the snow or the world class après-ski, stop by the newly renovated Les Ambassadeurs boutique. And, prepare to be impressed.
d The new St. Moritz Espace Connaisseur with its plush couch and roaring fire.
s To mark the inauguration of the boutique in December 2012, Joachim Ziegler, CEO Les Ambassadeurs, hosted a number of guests and journalists for some special shared moments.
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Text: David Chokron
W
atchmaking has been rooted in Swiss soil for centuries. While the making of mechanical watches is certainly not confined to Helvetic territory and other nations such as England, France, Germany and the United States formerly had prosperous watch industries, Switzerland now certainly accounts for the lion’s share. The very fact that the predominance and the influence of Swiss Made have never been stronger than they are today is undoubtedly because this success has been built on historically and geographically stable foundations. The concentration of horology in the regions of Geneva, Neuchâtel and Bienne is a deeply embedded phenomenon, based on the unseverable ties between places, laws and individuals. Ethics and history The Earth supplied watchmaking with its historical, agricultural and Protestant values. Until the 1900s in
Earthly gravity is a challenge for watchmakers. Greubel Forsey Quadruple Tourbillon
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Earth, Mother of Time Watches are born of the Earth: their raw materials dug out from its crust spring to life in the fertile soil of Switzerland. Swiss territory defines the international trajectory of watchmaking, which draws inspiration from it, before literally taking off and travelling around the world.
EARTH_ L.A
Detail of raw amethyst stone.
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L.A _EARTH
the Swiss Jura mountains, people made watches in winter and raised cattle in summer. Cut off from the world by snow-covered passes, they divided their time between workbench and stable. The culture of fine craftsmanship, combined with a relative lack of work during the winter, provided an enduringly fertile socio-economic breeding ground for the art of horology. But above and beyond production itself, which is firmly anchored within well-defined geographical limits, watchmaking has always relied on the very principle of travel. The to-and-fro journeys between valley and mountains, taking rough components in one direction and bringing back finished watches, mirrored the seasonal moves of cattle from summer mountain pastures to winter quarters. The history of watch brands is also about the encounters between watchmakers and tradesmen. Technical specialists joined forces with those who became long-distance adventurers covering the length and breadth of the planet in search of outlets for watch products. Russia, China, the United States and Japan: these Swiss travelling salesmen visited the four corners of the earth. Often under incredible conditions and in trips that lasted several years when necessary, watches have always been natural-born itinerants. By their very nature, they criss-cross the world and worldtimer watches are the most practical horological object of all. The Traveller ww.tc by Girard-Perregaux provides a constant, at-a-glance indication of the time anywhere in the world. Although it has been given a recent facelift, this model has remained unchanged in terms of its functions. This timepiece indexes all the world’s timezones according to major cities located on each given longitude. Its self-winding movement also powers a chronograph and a date display that make it a multi-purpose instrument for elegant travellers. For those with a preference for understatement, the Saxonia Dual Time by A. Lange & Söhne combines a pure dial typical of the German manufacturer with a dual-time indication. The wearer can thus experience a sense of being in two different places on Earth at the same time, while getting his temporal bearings.
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f The Earth follows
the path of the Sun and time adapts to it. Girard-Perregaux Traveller ww.tc
d The Earth is the
womb of matter. Jaquet-Droz Grande Seconde Lapis Lazuli
s Two places, a single earthly vision. A. Lange & Söhne Saxonia Dual Time
a Earth attracts
celestial bodies. Bovet AMADEO® Fleurier Meteorite
EARTH_ L.A
Matter and physics Earth produces the matter of the watch. Iron and carbon make steel and copper and zinc make brass. Gold and diamonds are dug from the Earth’s crust. All are transformed by the dexterity and genuis of man, and was the latter not fashioned from dust by the hand of God? The word ‘extraction’ does indeed have two meanings: one referring to local origin, and the other to exploiting underground riches. It is from these depths that the lapis lazuli blocks cut and polished by Jaquet Droz are drawn. The brand has made a speciality of these dials made from rare, hard and colourful stones with complex mo-
tifs. The Grande Seconde Lapis Lazuli features the vibrant blue shade that made this stone one of the most soughtafter in the Ancient World. The Earth is also about gravity – the distortion of time and space that pins us to the earth or pulls us upwards. In watchmaking, gravity is a constraint that modifies the performance of watches according to their position in space. Depending on whether they are held flat, vertically of sideways, the magnet that is Earth attracts watch components in subtly different ways, representing tiny variations that nonetheless affect rating precision. To escape its grip, AbrahamLouis Breguet invented the tourbillon,
and no one has since pushed this device to such sophisticated lengths. Not content with merely having its watch escapements rotate on a horizontal plane, like the vast majority of tourbillons, the brand multiplies them – and nowhere more so than in the Quadruple Tourbillon. The mean rate of these four analogous systems releases the watch from gravity, thereby enabling it to turn the phenomenon to its own advantage and propelling it to stratospheric horological heights. A fascinating game This same gravity also spells trouble in the shape of mineral ‘visitors’ The meteorites that crash-land on our planet in their thousands are not always microscopically small. The one named Gibeon weighed over 26 tons and fell in the Namib desert. Mostly made of iron but also of nickel and cobalt, it has been studied and cut up into slivers that Bovet uses to make the dials of the models in its AMADEO Meteorite series. Serpentine hands sweep over these crystalline structures born in outer space. This is a play on a precious material that does not look the part, on a piece of extra-terrestrial matter turned intra-horological. Our planet is not just about remaining down to earth. It also inspires the aspiration towards flight, travel and inventiveness. It is our space, and it is here that we spend our time.
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D E PA RT U R E Photographer: Richard Frémont Assistant: Grégoire Machavoine Art Director & Montage: Nicolas Zentner Models: Loren & Richard Hair & Make-up: Julie Monot Styling: Pascale Hug Location: Swiss Transport Museum, Lucerne
Her:
Cartier watch
Tank Anglaise watch, medium model Ref. W5310003
CHF 30,500.– Mattioli jewellery Celtica collection Earrings
Him:
Jaeger-LeCoultre watch Grande Reverso Calendar Ref. 3752520
CHF 20,100.– Suit – Paul Smith (Drake Store, Geneva); Shirt – Zegna and Pocket Kerchief – Attea (Bongénie, Geneva)
Ref. MOR81005
CHF 1,050.–
Collier – Ref. MGI81000A
CHF 3,660.–
Tibet collection
Ring – Ref. MAN75007
CHF 3,850.–
Overcoat, dress and handbag – Lanvin (Lanvin Boutique, Geneva)
Her:
Bovet watch
AMADEO® Fleurier 39 Guilloché Ref. AF39014–SD123
CHF 61,800.–
(Delivered with
a ruthenium silver sautoir necklace)
Pomellato jewellery Sirène Collection
Bracelet – Ref. BA904WO7B
CHF 41,970.–
Ring – Ref. AA904WO7B
CHF 14,790.–
Ring – Ref. AA904WO7
CHF 7,745.–
Dress – St. Laurent (Drake Store, Geneva); Shoes – Fendi (Fendi Boutique, Geneva); Suitcase – Louis Vuitton (Louis Vuitton Boutique, Geneva) Him:
Girard-Perregaux watch
Girard-Perregaux 1966
Annual Calendar & Equation of Time Ref. 49538–53–133–BK6A
CHF 35,100.– Suit – Etro and Shirt – Zegna (Bongénie, Geneva)
Her:
Breitling watch Galactic 32
Ref. A71356LA/G702/367A
CHF 7,280.– Mimi jewellery Talita collection
Earrings – Ref. O330R819
CHF 2,280.–
Necklace – Ref. C325R319
CHF 3,900.–
Ring – Ref. A327R8G
CHF 1,700.–
Ensemble – JP Gaultier (JP Gaultier Boutique, Geneva); Handbag – Hermès (Hermès Boutique, Geneva) Him:
Audemars Piguet watch
Royal Oak Offshore Chronograph
Ref. 26400RO.OO.A002CA.01
CHF 42,700.– Trenchcoat and trousers – Lanvin (Lanvin Boutique, Geneva); Shirt – Baldassari (Bongénie, Geneva)
Her:
Blancpain watch Women
Ref. 3653–2954–58B
CHF 38,600.– Pasquale Bruni jewellery Bon Ton collection Earrings
Ref. 13522R
CHF 6,330.– Him:
Necklace – Ref. 13458R
Breguet watch
CHF 11,140.–
Ref. 5827BR/Z2/5ZU
CHF 9,490.–
Marine Chronograph
CHF 30,700.– Pullover – Zegna Sport and Trousers – pt01 (Bongénie, Geneva); Foulard – Fendi (Boutique Fendi, Geneva)
Ring – Ref. 13457R Ring – Ref. 13682R CHF 3,820.–
Pullover and trousers – Gucci (Bongénie, Geneva); Gloves and shoes – Hermès (Hermès Boutique, Geneva)
Her:
Jaquet Droz watch
Date Astrale Mother-of-Pearl Ref. J021010208 –
CHF 17,100.–
Les Ambassadeurs jewellery Earrings – Ref. PCD01–BB06CT5.24
CHF 16,200.–
Him:
Vacheron Constantin watch Patrimony Contemporaine Retrograde Day and Date Ref. 86020/000G–9508
CHF 44,600.– Jacket and pullover – JP Gaultier (JP Gaultier Boutique); Sunglasses – Persol (Lunetterie de Pepinet, Lausanne)
Necklace – Ref. PCD02–BB06CT9.04
CHF 28,200.–
Bracelet – Ref. 16254–BR–001
CHF 20,050.–
Ring – Ref. 15503–AN–002
CHF 8,020.–
Ring – Ref. 15351–AN–004
CHF 14,000.–
Jacket – Balmain (Drake Store, Geneva); Sunglasses – Céline (Lunetterie de Pepinet, Lausanne)
L.A _SEA Text: Brice Lechevalier
The call of the ope The conquest of the waves owes a great deal to the great watchmakers. Be it a cruise, diving, regattas or a dream voyage, travelling on or through the liquid element is never plain sailing.
L
ike the young captains of the frigates of the first half of the 19th century, a period that still harboured a wealth of adventures for young talent, 23 year-old Ulysse Nardin displayed visionary gifts on a par with his watchmaking know-how. It was doubtless not easy for a citizen of the Jura hailing from Le Locle to set his sights on sailing the seven seas. Putting to good use the years he spent as an apprentice at F.W. Dubois, specialists in astronomical watches and marine chronometers, the savvy Nardin with his nomadic, commerciallyoriented mind-set, perceived the boom in the merchant navy as a horizon towards which he could set the course of his technical and entrepreneurial ambitions. At the time, marine chronometers were the only means for navigators to find their destinations with any degree of precision. On the equator, for example, a difference of a single minute meant a 27 km error! His skill in the art of creating reliable marine chronometers, successfully tested by the Geneva and Neuchâtel observatories, resulted in him equipping some 50 boats on their way to maritime conquests. Today the owners of the most beautiful yachts still turn to Ulysse Nardin, the brand that has become a reference for Fine Watchmaking and partner to the Monaco Yacht Show.
Panerai, Luminor Submersible 1950 2500 m 3 Days Automatic Titanio – 47 mm
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SEA_ L.A
en sea
The magnificent Antigua Regatta in the Panerai Classic Yacht Challenge
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L.A _SEA
The strength of classic sails From its underwater diving vocation dating back to the origins of the brand, Officine Panerai has retained a distinct taste for the sea that the Swiss manufacturer with a Latin heart now pursues aboard old tall ships that are mostly magnificently restored. Since 2007, the Panerai Classic Yacht Challenge has become the main international circuit for boats of yesteryear, bringing together the American and European continents in the same place, and sealed by the Panerai Transat Classique every second year. Last winter the most hardened sailors headed for Barbados from Douarnenez (Bretagne), St Tropez and Cascais (Portugal). In 2013, the classic season was launched in Antigua’s Easter trade winds, prior to offering the sail and teak bedecked travellers a veritable festival of coastal destinations with landscapes and colours as varied as the uniform of these sailors with their love of tradition. The Mediterranean was the focal point from May to September – from Antibes to Cannes (France) via Argentario (Italy) and Minorca (Spain) – along with the British Isles and their natural penchant towards the American east coast (Newport). In light of this, it comes as no surprise that Panerai’s stop-over at the SIHH at the start of the year saw the launch of the most elegant, functional regatta chronograph on the market! A must-have item at sailing venues the world over. From Lake Geneva to the Mediterranean By becoming the main partner to the Décision 35 championships, Vulcain has enabled high-speed multi-hulls from Lake Geneva – of which Alinghi is the best known – to escape their lake setting for the first time and point their bows to the Côte d’Azur. With the birth of the Vulcain Trophy in Spring 2011, the catamaran sailing elite for once began looking forward to the end of the calendar right from the start of the season. And one can certainly understand why, since the spray, the salt water, the gentle breezes and the warm waves promised the 50 or so crew members particularly relaxing, pleasant sailing conditions. The greatest multi-hull champions including Ernesto Bertarelli (twice winner of the America’s Cup) and Michel Desjoyaux (the great French sailor nicknamed the Professor) thus met up at the Grand Prix d’Antibes and at the Grand Prix de Beaulieu-sur-Mer, between Cannes and Monaco. Ten trucks were required to transport these carbon speed machines from the lake to the palm trees of the Maritime Alps. In 2013, the Vulcain Trophy will remain in fresh water but will enjoy record participation with 12 D35s criss-crossing Lake Geneva’s French and Swiss shores from May to September. At the beginning of the season, the much-coveted Grand Prix Les Ambassadeurs will provide an opportunity for the winner to go home with a limited edition Vulcain Trophy watch.
Harry Winston, Ocean Dual Time Black Edition
Bell & Ross, BR-02 Steel Carbon Fiber dial
The ocean on stage Inventor of the worldwide red carpet concept for stars of the 7th art and long-time partner to the Taormina Film Festival in Sicily, Harry Winston above all embarks wealthy, cultivated lovers of aesthetics upon a voyage to another dimension. A link between travel and watchmaking, dreams are an everpresent theme in Harry Winston’s world. This dreamlike
In 2013, the Vulcain Trophy will remain in fresh water but will enjoy record participation with 12 D35s criss-crossing Lake Geneva’s French and Swiss shores from May to September.
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power can be seen in the Ocean collection, of which the men’s and ladies’ models contain a wealth of nods to globetrotters and jetsetters from around the world through their functions symbolising the conquest of time and space – moon phases for some, hometime for others. In particular, the Ocean Sport collection became the first to feature cases
SEA_ L.A
made of Zalium (in the context of the Z1 project in 2004). This introduction represented the exclusive use in the watchmaking world of a high-tech material derived from the most advantage competitive sailing boats. With a collection as emblematic as Ocean, the Harry Winston flagship model was naturally set to head the fleet. 20,000 leagues under the sea Well-known for its instruments inspired by and for extreme professions, the flagship brand in watchmaking design for professionals has proved its worth in the deepest seas. Behind this odyssey into the abyss worthy of a Jules Verne novel, lies the mission that Bell & Ross has set itself: to produce timepieces for very specialised professions, such as bomb-disposal experts, fans of aerial feats and frogmen. Readable in the darkness of the deep, waterproof to record depths, the BR-02 line provides authentic instruments for extreme divers. Not only are its automatic diving watches water-resistant to 1000 metres (500 for the chronographs), but the Hydromax version is designed to resist the degree of pressure at 11,100 metres! What unknown species remain hidden in the dark underwater depths so far below the surface? There are still a great many voyages waiting to be undertaken on or under the sea‌
Ulysse Nardin, Marine Chronometer Manufacture
s The Alinghi team in action during the much-coveted Grand Prix Les Ambassadeurs Vulcain Trophy
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L.A _air
Conquering the skies
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air_ L.A Text: Vincent Daveau
Watchmaking has always been associated with man’s greatest conquests in his environment. The skies are no exception to this rule and the great companies have done everything possible since aviation was invented to offer pioneers the means of accompanying them on this fantastic adventure. Today, end users of this mode of transport can also avail themselves of the most suitable instruments for their needs. A panoramic view of a world between sky and earth!
I
carus tried to fly with his father, Daedelus, from the Minotaur’s palace at Knossos in Crete. The story did not have a happy ending. Leonardo da Vinci debated the manner in which man might one day glide. Clément ader picked up on the idea and tried to get a steam engine to fly… with a sort of iron fitted with bat wings. The idea was in the air at the beginning of the 20th century. The first aeroplane pilots shared the limelight with the first sports car drivers. at a time when alberto SantosDumont practiced with a motorised glider (1906), the pilot put his life in constant jeopardy, dancing with death while hoping like hell that his guardian angel would be able to fly for two. Fortunately, this eccentric millionaire’s personal guardian angel apparently did indeed understand the rules of levitation and enabled his protégé to write his name in the annals of aviation history as the first aerobatics artist to concern himself with flight times – since he wore what was undoubtedly the first pilot’s wristwatch in history, a piece was made for him by Louis Cartier in 1904. He doubtless got the idea for this model when he was flying the airship that enabled him to win the Henry Deutsch de la Meurthe prize in 1901. admittedly, the watch couldn’t measure the few seconds it took for the pilot to shake off gravity, but the seeds were sown of the idea that to fly long
Contemporary Santos 100 watch by Cartier. Alberto SantosDumont in the streets of Paris, the capital so dearly loved by this FrancoBrazilian dandy.
Left-hand page: Albert SantosDumont’s Demoiselle plane equipped with a flat twin engine.
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L.A _air
i Breitling Cosmonaute: a legendary chronograph dedicated to astronauts, but also to civilian pilots on long-haul flights.
distances in the absence of tangible landmarks, pilots were going to require the help of watches in the same way that sailors did. Age of heroism aviation had a great future with the army, as it also did in the civilian world. in this respect, adventurers took inestimable risks for the sheer pleasure of flying and promoting this new technology that brought people closer together. Collective memory retains the names of those who grew in stature through their daring, as members of the budding profession of aircraft pilots. amongst the most famous is the name of Charles Lindbergh. an award-winning pilot regarded as a sort of angel of his time, he achieved the daring feat of making the first atlantic crossing in an aeroplane and landed at Le Bourget, Paris in 1927 after a flight timed by a Longines chronometer which was also bathed in corresponding glory. in addition, with this experience in the aviation sector, the brand realised that commercial flights were going to happen in no time, and started thinking about ways to offer a
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g Breguet Type XXII in steel.
A fighter pilot’s chronograph with an ultra-precise self-winding calibre beating at 10 Hz (72,000 vibrations per hour).
f Urwerk UR-210:
a futuristic timepiece for pilots of spatiotemporal aircraft.
reliable timepiece that could be a backup for flight instruments in the event of a problem. The watch developed by Longines with the support of Commander PVH Weems was intended to fulfil pilots’ expectations at the beginning of the Thirties, and keep them on course using information coming from radio beacons. This creation was re-launched in the heritage collection some years ago, appearing in its original 47.5 mm-diameter size and named Longines Weems.
Highly appreciated by pilots at the time, this model was supplanted by the Hour angle version developed some time later by Longines with the assistance of Charles Lindbergh. However, due to the constant flow of technological developments, this piece was replaced by chronographs after Breitling’s invention of the second chronograph button in 1932. This simple component made it possible to stop a timing operation, but even more importantly to resume timing measurements without
air_ L.A
necessarily first resetting to zero (something than cannot be done with mono-pusher chronographs). Moreover, in 1936, it also presented Longines with an opportunity to launch a chronograph specially dedicated to pilots. On this model powered by the 13ZN calibre that is well-known to collectors as the first to have been equipped with the now famous and revolutionary “flyback” or instant-restart function, pressing the newly invented pushbutton at 4 o’clock made it possible to interrupt the timing, simultaneously reset the chronograph and minutes hands to zero and restart the timing once the button was released.
Type XXii version with a 10 Hz high frequency escapement (72,000 vibrations an hour) to meet the needs of fighter pilots at the controls of super-powerful interceptors. and because the future is written in the present, young watchmaking companies like Urwerk are preparing for tomorrow by presenting futurist creations, such as the Ur-210, that pilots of stratospheric space vessels will one day wear on their wrists for the sheer pleasure of maintaining the tradition of the mechanical pilot’s watch, but with a resolutely contemporary design.
Taking flight By the late 1940s, it was apparent to watchmakers that the world was one day going to see civilians travelling great distances by plane, since World War ii had caused aviation to take a giant leap forward within just a few years. Watchmakers needed to keep up with the times. Breitling had indeed already offered pilots its Chronomat, a highly specific timepiece that appeared in 1942. its construction with its rotating bezel soberly engraved with a sliding scale reflected the company’s desire to optimise certain in-flight calculations.in 1952, keenly aware of the need for on-board crew members to have timepieces that suited their needs, Breitling launched the Navitimer model – a chronograph that to this day remains the uncontested reference in terms of dedicated timepieces. Conceived for pilots of the first transcontinental four engine SuperConstellation aircraft, it enabled those who knew how to use it to do complex arithmetical calculations ranging from calculating fuel levels to multiple conversions. This instrument is still both current and highly appreciated by pilots, just like the Breguet Type XX which remains a reliable and greatly prized model. The latter reference was designed in 1954 for fighter pilots in the French air Force. Now the stuff of legends with its flyback function and slightly martial allure, this chronograph is today offered as a Breguet
The original plans of the mechanism developed by commander Philip Van Horn Weems in 1927, the year of Charles Lindbergh’s historic flight.
Longines Weems Second-Setting Watch in pink gold, a vintage model equipped with a powerful selfwinding calibre.
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Text: Gaëlle Sinnassamy-Chaar
LIKE A
MODERN-DAY ADVENTURER
A
flight over Africa in an aircraft, an underwater odyssey, a trip to the moon, Paris-Peking by train – throughout his novels, Jules Verne takes his readers to the ends of the universe and its elements. At the crossroads of fiction and reality, at the watershed of illusion and science, armchair globetrotters escapes reality as they eagerly turn the pages. And what if, like Verne’s heroes, one were to set off on on a round the world tour based on luxury and the exceptional?
i The Mysterious Island
Some 3,700 km from the South American continent, lost in the middle of the Pacific, Easter Island is the most isolated place on the planet. It is on this territory at the end of the world, renowned for its enigmatic Moaïs statues, that Mike Rapu’s Posada stands, an eco-lodge belonging to the Chilean Explora group. With its façade made of volcanic stone and untreated wood, its slate walls and rooms with their large bay windows overlooking the ocean, the sober, elegant design of the hotel harmoniously integrates with the austere beauty of Rapa Nui. Atop a hill facing the Rano Raraku volcano, on a spectacular site, just a few kilometres from the capital, this is a haven of peace that is ideal for adventure-loving aesthetes and fans of island mysteries. www.explora.com
p The Golden Volcano
Far from the great Canadian North described by Jules Verne, a volcanic eruption shakes… the fashion-show microcosm. It is the heart of fashionistas that Zuhair Murad ignites with his breathtaking creations. A cape of hand-painted cock’s feathers, a body shirt entirely sewn with sequins, baguettes and pearls, a draped asymmetrical sheath gown adorned with flamboyant embroidery, a dress with motifs mirroring the bas-relief adornments of a 17th century
nave: these stunning creations marked a couture triumph for
a rising Lebanese star who dazzled the highly demanding
Parisian fashion week. A 2013 Spring/Summer collection span-
gled with gold in tribute to Baroque splendour and oriental magnificence. www.zuhairmurad.com
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s Tribulations of a Chinaman in China After
expanding
from
Shanghai
fi The Floating Town
With its rounded curves inspired by the silhouette of a giant marine mammal,
to
the Oculus appears to have come straight
Beijing, the Chinese brand Shang Xia,
out of Jules’ Verne’s fertile imagination.
launched five years ago by Hermès, is
Somewhere between fairy tale and science-
continuing its upward trajectory and will
fiction, the yacht named for the constella-
in 2013 be setting up in Paris, the home of
the saddle-maker historically established
tion and with the allure of a spaceship is
in the city’s Faubourg Saint-Honoré.
a veritable titan of the seas at 79 metres long. With a top speed of over 25 knots, it was de-
jects, furniture and life style, the “upside-
or when crossing icy waters. Equipped with a stylishly elegant
Clothes, leather goods, decorative obdown” company (translation of its name
in Mandarin) draws its inspiration from the millennia-old culture of the Middle
Kingdom. In doing so, it revisits codes and icons to offer ultra chic creations, liv-
signed to withstand extreme conditions both on the high seas interior, the boat can accommodate up to 12 people on three levels in its suites and reception rooms featuring huge bay windows and a futuristic decor. www.schopferyachts.com
ing proof of artisanal excellence, fluctuat-
p The Fur Country
heritage and innovation. At the head of
between fashion and doggies. Combining her
ing between modernity and tradition, this Hermès made in China is talented
designer and artist, Jiang Qiong Er, who
has supervised all the brand’s collections since it began. www.shang-xia.com
Louise Victoria Lyngh Bjerregaard refuses to choose two passions, the Danish creator launched the Chien Bizarre brand in 2010 and designs haute couture fur coats for five star hounds. The company’s ultra-glamorous advertising campaigns shot by great photographers stage it girls and their four legged companions dressed in the famous tailor-made furs. The collections by the Danish brand appeal to hounds from all over the world, from Asia to Russia via the United States. Its many fans
include Fozzi, Lady Gaga’s labradoodle. www.chienbizarre.com
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LIKE A MODERN-DAY ADVENTURER s Around the World in 80 days
For a week-end or for… 80 days – Parisian luggage-maker Moynat makes tailor-made
is Twenty Thousand Leagues under the Sea
348 Rue Saint-Honoré in Paris, the house continues its tradition of special orders under
Captain Nemo. In the heart of a sublime
trunks designed to take your home anywhere in the world. In its flagship boutique at
the auspices of its artistic director, Indian Ramesh Nair. Amongst its most remarkable
achievements, is a breakfast service dreamt up for chef, Yannick Alleno. Its silver cutlery, fine porcelain, utensil drawers and ingredients are housed according to rigorous logic in multiple compartments. The nomadic art deco style canteen offers a granite work top and La Cornue burner, the Rolls Royce of ovens. A must. www.moynat.com
No need to board the Nautilus to play celadon green lagoon, on the island
of Loabi Finholu in the Maldives, the Huvafen Fushi hotel invites its visitors to lounge in the spa, a luxury retreat
designed by British architect Richard Hywel Evans. Its distinctive feature?
The fact that it is located… under water. Installed on a massage table in the
middle of a glass bubble, one can enjoy 150 minutes of the signature treatment offered by the wellness centre – the
Lime Light Crystal, given in relaxation rooms submerged at a depth of six me-
tres, offering a panoramic view of coral, clown fish, manta rays and turtles. www.huvafenfushi.peraquum.com
d The Meteor Hunt
To put the Moon and Mars in a bottle is the somewhat crazy gamble undertaken by Bruno Fectay
and Carine Bidaut. The two meteorite-hunter Frenchmen have gone into partnership with a
Champagne producer and a geo-chemistry teacher to concoct a drink that is like no other: a full-bodied wine with extra-terrestrial dust. Between scientific progress and far-fetched invention, the two exclusive, numbered series of Jeroboams named "Essence de Lune” (Moon Essence) and “Extrait de Mars”
(Mars Extract) were sealed in the summer of 2012 in cellars at the Domaine de la Pinte in Arbois. The
ultimate in luxury, the precious bottles both boast a medallion with a jewel carved from a meteorite
that is plated with platinum on one and rose gold on the other. www.eranova.pro/Presse/en.htm
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i From the Earth to the Moon
Whereas space tourism was simply unthinkable at the end of the 19th century, the journey
from earth to the moon for all has never been so close to becoming a reality. Virgin Galactic, the suborbital company founded in 2004 by billionaire, Richard Branson, is marketing flights to
the stars. For US$ 200,000, apprentice astronauts will float at an altitude of 110 km above the Kármán line, which marks the boundary between the earth’s atmosphere and space, experiencing a total of three to four minutes released from gravity. Hundreds of wealthy entrepreneurs,
celebrities and scientists have already booked their tickets, expecting to take off aboard the SpaceShiptwo from the brand-new astroport in New Mexico. www.virgingalactic.com
f The Lighthouse at the End of the World
A world away from the Land of Fire and Cape Horn, the site of Jules Verne’s very first novel, in the old northern Netherlands port of Harlingen stands a lighthouse converted into a guesthouse
inviting travellers to make-believe they are night-watchmen. Constructed in 1920, the building overlooks the town and opens onto the sea and the nearby islands of Terschelling and Vlieland.
Inhabited until 1998 by the last guardian, Piet Beuker, it was bought by a private individual and
completely restored to host visitors the following year, now offering a spacious bathroom with a
circular shower on the first floor, a room on the second and finally, on the third and final floor, the lantern room with its balcony perched 24 metres above the ground. www.vuurtoren-harlingen.nl
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Text: Nathalie Cobos
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ESPACE CONNAISSEUR_ L.A
EspacE connaissEur
RENDEZVOUS WITH WATCHMAKING FANS
M
uch more than a place dedicated to Fine Watchmaking, the Espace Connaisseur owned by LES AMBASSADEURS is a veritable concept, which is translated in the heart of its boutiques in Geneva, Lugano and Saint-Moritz, and in just a few months, Zurich, which is currently being renovated. Even before crossing the threshold of the Swiss retail specialist in watch and jewellery, visitors can admire an outside window devoted to the most prestigious timepieces, exhibited according to a monthly theme being promoted. On the first floor of each boutique lies a warm, intimate setting to welcome lovers of beautiful mechanisms. Designed as an exclusive Salon, the Espace Connaisseur offers a prestigious environment. Fine parquet covered with a thick carpet, comfortable armchairs, refined architecture, highend equipment, bookshelves inviting the spectator to look at the specialised works on watchmaking, exceptional furniture from the Buben&Zörweg brand and a Fine Watchmaking collection that is unique in Switzerland – everything is there to create the desire to visit the Espace Connaisseur, where time appears to stand still. Pushing attention to detail to the limits, LES AMBASSADEURS has brought exclusive collectors’ items to its Espace Connaisseur as well as accessories connected with watchmaking. Visitors have a chance to admire poetic creations in blown glass, rotating cases specially developed to look after watches when they are not their owners’ wrists, daily objects revisited as art and in the manner of the most beautiful Fine Watchmaking creations, or a collection of portable phones equipped
with a mechanical watch movement. Over time, LES AMBASSADEURS adds to this range of products, which targets watch lovers and collectors. Five times a year, the boutiques in Geneva, Zurich and Lugano hold private evenings in the Espace Connaisseur. The aim of these get-togethers is to give guests an exceptional moment and to take them on a voyage of discovery of a theme related to watchmaking. To lead out in these events, hand-picked moderators contribute their expertise
by putting the subject in perspective, from a historic and technical perspective. In order to illustrate these themes in concrete terms, LES AMBASSADEURS invite their partner brands to speak and share their know-how. During these evenings, participants thus have the chance to put questions to experts they would otherwise rarely have a chance to meet. Discussions naturally continue during a finger-food cocktail party that sends the final touch to these special encounters.
Professional watches: pilot’s watches Geneva: Tuesday 17.09.2013
These wristwatches, specially designed to fulfil pilot’s
Zurich: Thursday 19.09.2013
Aeronautics at that time represented a state-of-the-art
Lugano: Wednesday 18.09.2013
needs, have existed since Man achieved Icarus’ dream. engineering performance; and consequently many watchmakers started designing wristwatches for
pilots, so that they too could be part of this quest for
precision and cutting-edge technology. In the course of this evening, we will present a variety of models
representing aeronautical and aerospace technological feats accomplished by legendary watchmakers. Extraordinary complications: fine watchmaking Geneva: Tuesday 19.11.2013
The notion of Fine Watchmaking refers to the most
Zurich: Thursday 21.11.2013
illustrates the ability to produce the most exceptional
Lugano: Wednesday 20.11.2013
successful mechanical timepieces and notably
complications. During this evening, we will share with you some of the secrets of prestigious luxury watch
manufacturers that may lay claim to a rich history, a vast range of skills and impressive expertise in the realm of Fine Watchmaking.
For further information on the Espace Connaisseur evenings, please go to our website http://www.lesambassadeurs.ch/en/connaisseurs.html, or contact our teams in Geneva, Lugano and Zurich, who would be delighted to answer your questions.
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L.A _PEOPLE
1
1
1
2
People 2 1
2
1. Graff Cocktail 2. Aston Martin and Buben&Zörweg event 3. Watch Première Exhibition 2013
2
3
2
3
3
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3
3
PEOPLE_ L.A
Text: Timm Delfs
suggestions. Naturally I would prefer going somewhere warm, and activity is a key factor, plus it needs to be somewhere capable of satisfying my curiosity. Do you have a motto? If so, what is it? Where there’s a will there’s a way.
Valérie Ravoire Les Ambassadeurs Geneva What is your role at Les Ambassadeurs? For the past year I have been responsible for sales, as well as procurement and selecting our jewellery.
For the past year, I have been head of the jewellery sector, which I obviously greatly enjoy. In order to provide better advice, I did a GIA gemmology correspondence training course.
How long have you been working for Les Ambassadeurs? I have been at Les Ambassadeurs for six years.
What do you like doing in your spare time? It goes without saying that I don’t have much spare time. I love shopping, and like all true French women, there is nothing I enjoy more than a trip to Paris now and again. I also like physical exercise, but my favourite choice is a bit unusual: I do Aquabiking, using special bikes underwater to the rhythm of music. It is really good for your legs, stomach and circulation and is also highly enjoyable, which is another positive point!
What have the three most important phases of your career been? I am a French national and after my Baccalaureate, I did a “BTS” at hotel school in France. My first job was as a receptionist at the Beau Rivage Hotel in Geneva. But after a while, I struggled with the irregular working hours, so I knocked on the door of Les Ambassadeurs because I was attracted by the luxury atmosphere that I had come into contact with in the hotel industry. I was recruited as head of window decoration and shortly afterwards, I became involved in sales. I had great support and I liked it because I enjoy the contact with the clients very much.
What is your most precious possession? My parents and the rest of my family. What would your ideal holiday destination be? I am not yet set on a specific destination – I am quite open to all
How would you describe the “Espace Connaisseur”? I always follow the “Espace Connaisseur” events with great interest, because they provide me with a chance to learn something new and to meet our clients in a relaxed atmosphere. For the clients, these events always offer an excellent opportunity to have a chat after work with people who share the same tastes. In your opinion, what was the most successful “Espace Connaisseur” event? Why? I loved the event that explained the setting of precious stones in watch cases. This also enabled me to learn a lot about my passion – jewellery. On this occasion, Vacheron Constantin presented the “Kalla” model which is just a dream. In the “Espace Connaisseur”, complications are often discussed. What is your favourite complication and why? My favourite by far is the “Reine de Naples” moon-phase model by Breguet. I find it romantic to have on your wrist at all times an indication of Earth’s position at that specific moment.
Address of the Geneva boutique:
Rue du Rhône 62 – 1204 Geneva T. +41 (0)22 318 62 22 geneve@lesambassadeurs.ch
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L.A _PEOPLE
Text: Timm Delfs
This year, I hope to be able to visit at least one of them. Do you have a motto? If so, what is it? Treading water is already going backwards. (One should aspire to the best thing possible in order to achieve something good.) How would you describe the “Espace Connaisseur”? The “Espace Connaisseur” offers watch and jewellery fans a good opportunity to exchange opinions and admire unusual pieces in a highly refined context.
Fabian Ackermann Les Ambassadeurs Zurich What is your role at Les Ambassadeurs? I am a watch and jewellery sales advisor. How long have you been working for Les Ambassadeurs? I started my specialist training in the retail trade in August 2009 at Les Ambassadeurs and I have been there ever since. What have the three most important phases of your career been? Firstly the confirmation of my apprenticeship at Les Ambassadeurs. During my training, there were a number of important stages, such as the first big sales. After a few months, I was completely enthralled by watches. Up to now, the most important part of my career has been the end of my apprenticeship for which I got a good grade.
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What do you like doing in your spare time? In my spare time, I do a lot of endurance sport and spend a lot of time with my friends and family. I am also very interested in watches in my private capacity, and read a number of watchmaking magazines as well as checking out forums on the Internet. What is your most precious possession? My most precious possession is my family. As far as material things are concerned, it is unquestionably my watch collection… What would your ideal holiday destination be? I would very much like to go to London and New York. These two cities appeal to me because they have a very particular lifestyle and charm.
In your opinion, what was the most successful “Espace Connaisseur” event? Why? In my opinion, it was the Tourbillon event with Greubel Forsey that was the most successful. I had a chance to exchange a few words with Mr Forsey and was hugely impressed by his knowledge and skill. In the “Espace Connaisseur”, complications are often discussed. What is your favourite complication and why? Personally, my favourite complication is the minute repeater. It is an incredible performance to restore time with a sound, and in my opinion, it is one of the most complex complications. I was especially impressed with Audemars Piguet’s Jules Audemars with its jumping hour. It is one of the most beautiful sounds that exist and it is a totally discreet watch. Only a connoisseur would see the tiny repeater slide that reveals the kind of watch one is dealing with.
Address of the Zurich boutique:
Bahnhofstrasse 64 – 8001 Zurich T. +41 (0)44 227 17 17 zuerich@lesambassadeurs.ch
PEOPLE_ L.A
Text: Timm Delfs
How would you describe the “Espace Connaisseur”? These evenings are an enjoyable new way of bringing our clients closer to the fascinating world of watches. We offer a familiar setting in which clients are comfortable. At the same time, we also learn new things each time.
Marie-France Rek Les Ambassadeurs Lugano
What is your role at Les Ambassadeurs? I am responsible for window display decoration, admin and sales. How long have you been working for Les Ambassadeurs? I have been with Les Ambassadeurs for 13 years. What have the three most important phases of your career been? I have always been fascinated by jewellery, to the point where after school I chose to do an apprenticeship in a retail jewellery business. After this, I got a job working for a jewellery store. My recruitment at Les Ambassadeurs was a lucky break because I discovered how fascinating watches are here.
What do you like doing in your spare time? I spend my spare time in nature with my dog. Aside from that, I keep fit by jogging, hiking, as well as some time in the gym. Additionally, I often give in to the temptation to go shopping as a hobby. What is your most precious possession? My health and my family. What would your ideal holiday destination be? My dream destination is less important than being there in good company. Do you have a motto? If so, what is it? Live and let live.
In your opinion, what was the most successful “Espace Connaisseur” event? Why? I was absolutely fascinated by painting on enamel at the event with Bovet. I was simply stunned by the way in which the people that have chosen this profession produce miniscule works of art on dials. Accomplishing this calls for the serenity of a Zen master and the artistry of a Rembrandt. In the “Espace Connaisseur”, complications are often discussed. What is your favourite complication and why? I am fascinated by all complications but my favourite is the tourbillon due to its hypnotic effect.
Address of the Lugano boutique:
Via Nassa 5 – 6900 Lugano T. +41 (0)91 923 51 56 lugano@lesambassadeurs.ch
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L.A _PEOPLE
Text: Timm Delfs
What would your ideal holiday destination be? There are so many places that I haven’t been to. It would be hard to choose. Would it be the United States because of the cities and the endless spaces? Or rather Venezuela with its wild natural environment? Or China or Japan with their cultures that are completely different? Another dream comes to mind – one day I would like to cross Siberia with the Trans-Siberian Railway. Do you have a motto? If so, what is it? We are all masters of our own destiny.
Tatjana Torri-Paltarzhytskaya Les Ambassadeurs St. Moritz What is your role at Les Ambassadeurs? As there are usually only two of us in the boutique, I take care of anything that happens – sales, admin and display windows. How long have you been working for Les Ambassadeurs? I have been at Les Ambassadeurs since December 2009. What have the three most important phases of your career been? I come from Minsk in Belarus. Like all women, I have always liked jewellery. In my home country, I studied economics prior to working in accounting and admin for a jewellery company. When I arrived in Switzerland in 2002, I initially found a job in the hotel industry in St. Moritz. It was the first time that
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I had been in direct contact with clients. My next activity for Les Ambassadeurs enabled me to combine client contact with my love for jewellery. What do you like doing in your spare time? In my home country, culture was already an important part of my life. Consequently, I like reading and going to the theatre and concerts. But I also do a lot of sport and St. Moritz is ideal in this regard because the activities I must enjoy are skiing or Nordic walking. What is your most precious possession? My health and my daughter’s well-being, which I am very focused on currently because she is doing her A-levels.
How would you describe the “Espace Connaisseur”? Contrary to the other boutiques, the “Espace Connaisseur” in St. Moritz is a themed exhibition which presents the important points of a particular watch brand. Part of our shop therefore has a number of windows in front of the boutique which are devoted to this exhibition for a period of time. I like these themed exhibitions because they enable me to broaden my knowledge on the brand in question. In the “Espace Connaisseur”, complications are often discussed. What is your favourite complication and why? My favourite is the perpetual calendar. There is something magical in knowing that this mechanism contains a miniscule programme which knows that not all the months are the same length. I also like the fact that this mechanism works behind the scenes and only springs into visible action at midnight.
Address of the St. Moritz boutique:
Palace Galerie – 7500 St. Moritz T. +41 (0)81 833 51 77 stmoritz@lesambassadeurs.ch
L.A _PORTFOLIO
Harry Winston Watch Premier Feathers Ref. 210/LQ36WL.PL04/D3.1
CHF 54,800.–
Graff Jewellery Earrings Ref. GE 14512 - CHF 188,500.– Necklace Ref. GP 9404 - CHF 32,650.– Mikimoto Jewellery Libellula Collection from Mikimoto Milano Collection By Giovanna Broggian Necklace with South Sea cultured pearls Price on request Ring Ref. ABM10BB - CHF 29,200.– Pasquale Bruni Jewellery Bon Ton Bonheur collection Ring Ref. 14513R - CHF 5,365.– Ring Ref. 14497R - CHF 4,500.– Pomellato Jewellery Nudo collection Earrings Ref. 0.A107/O6/OI - CHF 4,035.– Ring Ref. A.B201/O6/TL - CHF 2,630.– Ring Ref. A.A110/O6/TL - CHF 2,020.– Wellendorff Jewellery
“Crystal Wing” ring Ref. 6.7065 - CHF 15,460.– “Angel’s Kiss” rings Ref. 6.7055 - CHF 22,260.– “Silky Variété” necklace Ref. 4.6700 - CHF 13,140.– “Sweet Angel” amulet Ref. 9.9429 - CHF 19,480.–
The prices indicated are subject to change
PROFILE_ L.A
Nuno Da Costa
N
uno is a self-taught Illustrator specialising in Fashion and Beauty imagery, represented by top British Illustration agency Illustration Ltd ( w w w. i l l u s t r a t i o n w e b . c o m / nunodacosta) in the UK, US, China and India, as well as by affiliated agencies in Germany and France. After leaving King’s College University where he focused on modern languages along with Latin American and Hispanic Cultural Studies, Nuno decided to change direction and pursue his love of all things relating to art and fashion. He put together his portfolio and within a week started working for various publications at Emap and Hearst publishing houses both in the UK and US. He was later discovered by leading fashion hair stylist Neil Moodie who asked him to collaborate on an innovative eight-page spread for Wonderland Magazine along with worldrenowned make-up artist Lisa Butler, a seminal event which has shaped and coloured Nuno’s approach and technique to this day. In 2010 he achieved his longstanding dream of being published in British Vogue in their Christmas special ’Superstar Issue’ which has led to collaborations with The Telegraph, Christian Dior, Vogue Portugal, The Sunday Times, L’Oreal Professionnel and Clinique, amongst many other well known and respected names in the fashion, beauty and publishing industries. Nuno’s illustrations fall mainly in two categories – colour and black and white brush work – but always retain their up to the minute sense of style. His illustrations are hand drawn and painted with water colours and gouache before being scanned and then retouched in Photoshop.
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L.A _fhh
The ABCs of
Fine Watchmaking This semester, the Fondation de la Haute Horlogerie offers readers of L.A Magazine a chance to take a look at the various aspects of water-resistance. This selection is drawn from its Glossary that appears in full at www.hautehorlogerie.org
Blancpain, Fifty Fathoms, X Fathoms
fhh_ L.A
Water-resistance A watch’s water-resistance is measured in bars (a unit of pressure where 1 bar equals 1 atmosphere or atm). Water-resistance means a watch is sealed against dust and water. Manufacturers generally indicate this water-resistance in metres (m), feet (ft), or atmospheres (atm). A watch that is described as water-resistant, with or without an additional indication of overpressure, must comply with and have successfully passed the tests set out in the NIHS 92-10 Swiss watch industry standard (equivalent to the ISO-2281 international standard). These watches are destined for ordinary everyday use, including periods of immersion in water such as leisure swimming.
Breguet, Marine Tourbillon Chronograph in platinum
A watch’s water-resistance will always be better if: • The case (and the crystal) are round • It has a screw-in crown • The case back is screwed in • The pushpieces are screw-locked • It has a thick crystal Diving watch A diving watch is designed to be worn underwater at a depth of at least 100 metres (330 feet). It must include a time control device and fully meet the criteria set out in NIHS 92-11 standard (ISO 6425) in terms of luminosity, shock-resistance, anti-magnetism and the robustness of the strap. Understanding water resistance Water-resistance refers to the pressure the watch can withstand, measured in atmospheres or bars. There are two types of pressure: • Relative or hydrostatic pressure which is the pressure exerted by water. • Absolute pressure which is water pressure + atmospheric pressure.
Roger Dubuis, Pulsion Chronograph in Pink Gold
The water-resistance indicated on a watch usually corresponds to relative pressure. During diving, the pressure on the watch is absolute pressure. At sea level (zero altitude), atmospheric pressure equals 1 bar and increases by 1 bar for every 10 metres below sea level: 10 metres = 2 bars; 20 metres = 3 bars; 100 metres = 11 bars...
Jaermann & Stübi, Trans Atlantic
Gaskets Most gaskets are made from a synthetic material which reacts to heat. Any increase in temperature will cause the gaskets to dilate, which reduces the watch’s water-resistance. Gaskets are placed at strategic points: case, crown, pushpieces. When saltwater evaporates it leaves a film of highly corrosive salt on the gaskets. For this reason, always rinse your watch in fresh water after being in the sea. Gaskets will show signs of wear more or less quickly depending on how the watch is used, and should be changed each year if the watch is regularly worn during water-based activities.
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+ + + =
23 WATCHES
TRY OUR NEW WATCHFINDER ON W W W. L E SA M BA S SA D EU RS .C H
Texts: Olivier Müller & Soraia Glarner
A . La nge & Söhne A udem a rs Piguet Bell & Ros s Bla ncpa in Bov et
Breguet
Breit ling Ca rt ier Cha nel
Fra nck Muller
Gira rd- Perregaux Greubel Fors ey
WATCHES Ha rry Wins t on
Ja eger- LeCoult re
Ja erm a nn & St übi Jaquet Droz Longines Pa nera i
Roger Dubuis
T iffa ny & Co.
Ulys s e Na rdin Urwerk
Vacheron Cons ta nt in Vulca in
& MORE Buben& Zörweg Ve rt u
All prices indicated are subject to change.
L.A _New Models
A. Lange & Söhne Grand Lange 1 & 1815 UP/DOWN
T
he Grand lange 1 appears in a supremely elegant black and white gold version. Through the simplicity of these two tones, this iconic A. lange & söhne timepiece displays its capacity for consistent reinterpretation so as to better fit the mood of the moment. Its black silver dial is highlighted by luminescent hands and appliques. The Grand lange 1 keeps its original hand-wound movement ensuring a 72-hour power reserve. The new 1815 UP/dowN shares this autonomy and features its indicator placed opposite the small seconds at 4 o’clock, thus creating a perfectly balanced dial. The model is equipped with Calibre l051.2, a movement crafted and entirely hand-finished in Glashütte.
Ref. 117.028
Grand Lange 1 Movement mechanical hand-wound, Manufacture Calibre L095.1. Power reserve: 72 hours. Functions hours, minutes, small seconds with stop seconds, large date. Power-reserve indication. Case 18K white gold. Diameter: 40.90 mm. Sapphire crystal and case-back. Dial solid silver, black. Strap hand-sewn crocodile leather. Price CHF 38,700.– Ref. 234.032
1815 UP/DOWN Movement mechanical hand-wound, Manufacture Calibre L051.2. Power reserve: 72 hours. Functions hours, minutes, small seconds with seconds. “AUF/AB” (wound up/wound down) power-reserve indication. Case 18K pink gold. Diameter: 39 mm. Sapphire crystal and case-back. Dial solid silver. Strap hand-sewn crocodile leather. Price CHF 26,500.– These new models will be available at Les Ambassadeurs boutiques in the course of the year.
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New Models_ L.A
Audemars Piguet
Jules Audemars Extra-Thin 41 mm & Jules Audemars Perpetual Calendar
W
ith the Jules Audemars extra-Thin 41 mm, the Manufacture Audemars Piguet interprets a classic model par excellence, of the kind that is truly appreciated by informed connoisseurs. Its concentrically engraved dial, its hour-markers sculpted to form multiple facets and its softly curving hands are tokens of the extreme care denoting the refined luxury of an exceptional piece. In its Perpetual Calendar version, the Manufacture provides a glimpse of its horological mastery. This useful complication is complemented by a moon phase, within the diminutive 4 mm thick movement that drives this timepiece imbued with timelessly understated elegance.
Ref. 15180OR.OO.A102CR.01
Jules Audemars Extra-Thin 41 mm Movement mechanical self-winding, Manufacture Calibre 2120. Power reserve: 40 hours. Functions hours, minutes. Case 18K pink gold. Diameter: 41 mm. Glareproofed sapphire crystal and case-back. Water-resistant to 20 m. Dial guilloché silver-toned. Strap alligator leather. Price CHF 24,600.– Ref. 26390OR.OO.D088CR.01
Jules Audemars Perpetual Calendar Movement mechanical self-winding, Manufacture Calibre 2120/2802. Power reserve: 40 hours. Functions hours, minutes. Perpetual calendar indicating the date, day, month, leap years and moon phases. Case 18K pink gold. Diameter: 41 mm. Glareproofed sapphire crystal and case-back. Water-resistant to 20 m. Dial silver-toned. Strap hand-sewn crocodile leather with folding clasp. Price CHF 56,200.– These new models will be available at Les Ambassadeurs boutiques in the course of the year.
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L.A _New Models
Bell & Ross
BR01-92 Heading Indicator & BR03-94 Golden Heritage Automatic
W
ith the BR01-92 Heading Indicator and the BR03-94 Golden Heritage Automatic, Bell & Ross reaffirms its attachment to the world of aviation. The former comes straight out of the cockpit, inspired by the instrument serving to display the course or heading of the aircraft. It comprises three discs indicating the hours, minutes and seconds. The latter associates a modern case with a vintage dial reflecting the inexorable patina of time. A 42 mm selfwinding model radiating a timeless aesthetic appeal, the BR03-94 Golden Heritage enables fast and intuitive readings such as one would expect from any high-precision aeronautical instrument.
Ref. BR0192-Heading
BR01-92 Heading Indicator Movement mechanical self-winding, ETA Calibre 2892. Functions hours (external disc), minutes (intermediate disc), seconds (non-graduated central disc featuring a yellow marker). Case steel with black PVD finish. Diameter: 46 mm. Glareproofed sapphire crystal. Water-resistant to 100 m. Dial black. Strap rubber and synthetic canvas. Price CHF 5,600.– Ref. BR0394-ST-G-HE/SCA
BR03-94 Golden Heritage Automatic Movement mechanical self-winding SW300, ETA Calibre 2894. Functions hours, minutes, seconds, date. Chronograph with sweepseconds hand along with 60-second and 30-minute counters. Case polished satin-brushed steel. Diameter: 42 mm. Glareproofed sapphire crystal. Water-resistant to 100 m. Dial brown. Strap leather and synthetic canvas. Price CHF 5,500.–
These new models will be available at Les Ambassadeurs boutiques in the course of the year.
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New Models_ L.A
Blancpain
Fifty Fathoms Bathyscaphe & Fifty Fathoms Bathyscaphe
F
or the 60th anniversary of its Fifty Fathoms, Blancpain unveils a Bathyscaphe model that pays tribute to its legendary diver’s watch. Its extremely understated masculine version features a meteorite grey dial teamed with a black bezel and strap. Its ladies’ equivalent plays on contrasts in a white livery endowing it with an aura of elegant simplicity. only the redtipped large seconds hand hints at its sporting nature. Both share the attributes of an authentic diver’s watch: superluminova-enhanced hands, a unidirectional bezel and water resistance to 30 bar.
Ref. 500-1110-B52 A
Fifty Fathoms Bathyscaphe Movement mechanical self-winding, Calibre 1315. Power reserve: 5 days. Functions hours, minutes, seconds, date. Case satin-brushed steel. Diameter: 43 mm. Unidirectional ceramic bezel. Sapphire crystal and case-back. Water-resistant to 30 bar. Dial meteorite grey. Strap sail canvas. Price CHF 9,800.– Ref. 5100-1127-NAW A
Fifty Fathoms Bathyscaphe Movement mechanical self-winding, Calibre 1150. Power reserve: 100 hours. Functions hours, minutes, seconds, date. Case satin-brushed steel. Diameter: 38 mm. Ceramic unidirectional bezel. Sapphire crystal and case-back. Water-resistant to 30 bar. Dial white. Strap NATO type. Price CHF 8,900.–
These new models will be available at Les Ambassadeurs boutiques in the course of the year.
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L.A _New Models
Bovet
Chronograph Cambiano Special Edition designed by Pininfarina & Récital 9 Miss Alexandra Tourbillon
T
he Chronograph Cambiano special edition designed by Pininfarina represents a new stage in the partnership between Bovet 1822 and Pininfarina. developed for the dashboard of the Italian carmaker’s concept car, this sporty steel 45 mm timepiece issued in an 80-piece limited edition is endowed with a 48-hour power reserve. Its three dials are made of wood reclaimed from the timber piles on which Venice is built, a nod to the solid oakwood floor featured in the latest creation from Pininfarina. In parallel, the Manufacture presents the Récital 9 Miss Alexandra Tourbillon, its second feminine timepiece. This dainty model combines lyrical and technical elements within a 41 mm oval case in red or white gold. every hour, the hands are superimposed to form a heart. In an ultimate touch of refinement, the seconds hand is replaced by a diamond which, as it rotates, sends sparkling reflections playing across the movement surfaces.
Ref. CHPIN010
Chronograph Cambiano Special Edition designed by Pininfarina Movement mechanical self-winding, Calibre 13BA08. Power reserve: 48 hours. Functions hours, minutes, small seconds at 6 o’clock. Chronograph with sweep-seconds hand, 30-minute and 12-hour counters. Case steel. Diameter: 45 mm. Convertible into a wristwatch, a pocket-watch, a table clock, a sports timer (AMADEO® system). Glareproofed sapphire crystal and case-back. Water-resistant to 30 m. Dial rhodium-coated anthracite. Strap leather. Price CHF 30,300.– Optional ruthenium-coated silver chain.
Ref. DTR9-WG-0B0-C1-01
Limited edition of 80.
Récital 9 Miss Alexandra Tourbillon Movement mechanical hand-wound, Calibre 15BM01-PL. Power reserve: 7 days. Functions hours, minutes. Moon phase. Power-reserve indication. Tourbillon. Case 18K white gold featuring bezel set with baguette-cut diamonds. Dimensions: 41.00 x 37.20 mm. Glareproofed sapphire crystal and case-back. Water-resistant to 30 m. Strap alligator leather. Price CHF 189,000.– Total carat weight: 1.40 cts. These new models will be available at Les Ambassadeurs boutiques in the course of the year.
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New Models_ L.A
Breguet
Classique Chronométrie & Marine Chronographe Dame
T
he Classique Chronométrie 7727 is a worthy heir to Breguet’s longstanding tradition of innovation. endowed with a frequency of 10 Hz, a double balancespring, a silicon escapement and a balance-wheel that is impervious to the effects of gravity, the 7727 is accurate to the nearest tenth of a second. Meanwhile, Breguet opts for daily elegance with its Marine model featuring a turquoise strap. each numbered watch is driven by a self-winding chronograph movement with a 45-hour power reserve. Framed by a dainty under 35 mm case, the shimmering natural white mother-of-pearl dial is adorned with an exquisite wave motif.
Ref. 7727BR/12/9WU
Classique Chronométrie Movement mechanical self-winding with stop seconds, Calibre 574DR. Power reserve: 60 hours. Functions hours, minutes. Small seconds at 12 o’clock and 1/10th second at 1 o’clock. Power-reserve indication. Case 18K pink gold. Diameter: 41 mm. Sapphire crystal and case-back. Water-resistant to 3 bar. Dial hand-guilloché silver-toned dial featuring six different motifs. Individual numbering. Strap leather with triple folding clasp. Price CHF 39,000.– Ref. 8827ST/5W/986
Marine Chronographe Dame Movement mechanical self-winding, Calibre 550. Power reserve: 45 hours. Functions hours, minutes, small seconds, date. Chronograph with sweep-seconds hand, 30-minute and 12-hour counters. Case steel. Diameter: 34.60 mm. Sapphire crystal. Water-resistant to 5 bar. Dial natural white mother-of-pearl. Individually numbered. Strap turquoise leather. Price CHF 19,000.–
These new models will be available at Les Ambassadeurs boutiques in the course of the year.
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L.A _New Models
Breitling for Bentley Bentley B04 GMT & Bentley B05 Unitime
A
fter ten years on the road with Bentley, Breitling unveils two new chronographs intended for keen travellers. The ivory-toned dial of the Bentley B04 GMT conceals a Manufacture Breitling calibre serving to adjust the travel time while maintaining home time thanks to a red-tipped hand: set to 24 hours, it facilitates the distinction between day and night. The Bentley B05 Unitime opts for a rotating crown system, with each notch serving to automatically adjust one of the 24 time zones. Both these 49 mm chronographs are chronometer-certified by the CosC.
Ref. AB043112/G774/990A
Bentley B04 GMT Movement mechanical self-winding, Manufacture Breitling Caliber 04. Chronometer-certified by the COSC. Power reserve: 70 hours. Functions hours, minutes, small seconds, date. 2nd time zone in 24-hour mode. ¼ th of a second chronograph, 30-minute and 12-hour totalizers. Case steel. Diameter: 49 mm. Ratcheted rotating bezel with variable tachometer. Cambered sapphire crystal, glareproofed on both sides. Water-resistant to 100 m. Dial Silver Storm. Bracelet Speed with folding clasp. Price CHF 11,850.– Ref. AB0521U4/BC65/760P/A20BA.1
Bentley B05 Unitime Movement mechanical self-winding, Manufacture Breitling Caliber B05. Chronometer-certified by the COSC. Power reserve: 70 hours. Functions hours, minutes, small seconds, date. World time. ¼ th of a second chronograph, 30-minute and 12-hour totalizers. Case steel. Diameter: 49 mm. Cambered sapphire crystal, glareproofed on both sides. Water-resistant to 100 m. Dial Royal Ebony. Strap crocodile leather. Price CHF 12,700.– These new models will be available at Les Ambassadeurs boutiques in the course of the year.
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New Models_ L.A
Cartier
Rotonde de Cartier Mysterious Double Tourbillon watch & Rotonde de Cartier Perpetual Calendar Chronograph Watch
T
he mysterious new double Tourbillon by Cartier enlivening its Rotonde watch could not be more aptly named. literally floating inside its carriage, it performs one rotation in five minutes so as to better tame the effects of gravity. Positioned at 6 o’clock inside a 45 mm platinum case, this Fine watchmaking complication magnifies the contemporary, restrained aesthetic of the new Rotonde de Cartier. In parallel, Cartier presents a perpetual calendar chronograph version of the same Rotonde. with these two complications, its finely guilloché dial combines the measurement of short and long times. This contemporary white or pink gold model reveals its impeccably finished Manufacture-made calibre through a sapphire case-back.
Ref. W1556210
Rotonde de Cartier Mysterious Double Tourbillon watch Movement mechanical hand-wound, mysterious double tourbillon, Manufacture Cartier Calibre 9454 MC, Poinçon de Genève quality hallmark. Power reserve: 52 hours. Individual numbering. Functions hours, minutes. Case platinum. Diameter: 45 mm. Platinum beaded crown adorned with a cabochon-cut sapphire. Water-resistant to 30 m. Dial galvanic guilloché, sunburst-effect openworked grid. Strap alligator leather with folding clasp. Price CHF 160,000.– Ref. W1556225
Rotonde de Cartier Perpetual Calendar Chronograph Watch Movement mechanical self-winding, Manufacture Cartier Calibre 9423 MC. Power reserve: 48 hours. Individual numbering. Functions hours, minutes. Column-wheel chronograph with central sweep-seconds hand, 30-minute and 12-hour counters. Perpetual calendar with date indication on the inner bezel ring, retrograde day of the week pointer at 6 o’clock, month and leap-year indication at 12 o’clock. Case 18K pink gold. Diameter: 42 mm. 18K pink gold beaded crown adorned with a cabochon-cut sapphire. Sapphire crystal and case-back. Water-resistant to 30 m. Dial galvanic guilloché, sunburst-effect openworked grid. Strap alligator leather with folding clasp. Price CHF 66,500.– These new models will be available at Les Ambassadeurs boutiques in the course of the year.
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L.A _New Models
Chanel
J12 White Phantom & Première
T
en years ago, Chanel made its grand entrance onto the watchmaking stage with the J12, a model adorned with an intense white colour. To celebrate this anniversary, the brand introduces an all-white variation of this model. In this unusual guise, the J12 white Phantom relegates its hands and hour-markers to the background so as to train the spotlight firmly on the harmonious case design, the pure lines and the soft relief effects of its famous crown. The same quest for purity is echoed in its new Première watch: an icon now featuring a slimmer profile and a more elongated silhouette. A black lacquered two-hand dial sparkling with 56 diamonds and a chain bracelet assert the elegance of the refined and exclusive Chanel universe.
Ref. H3443
J12 White Phantom Movement mechanical self-winding. Power reserve: 42 hours. Functions hours, minutes, seconds. Case white high-tech ceramic. Diameter: 38 mm. Sapphire crystal. Water-resistant to 200 m. Dial white. Bracelet ceramic with steel triple folding clasp. Price CHF 4,570.– Limited edition of 2,000. Ref. H3254
Première Movement Functions Case
Dial Bracelet Price
quartz. hours, minutes. diamond-set steel. Dimensions: 20 x 28 mm. Crown adorned with a cabochon-cut onyx. Sapphire crystal. Water-resistant to 30 m. black lacquered. steel chain. CHF 7,620.–
Total carat weight: 0.43 cts.
These new models will be available at Les Ambassadeurs boutiques in the course of the year.
Page 62 | L.A 12 |
New Models_ L.A
Franck Muller Vintage 7-Days Power Reserve & Lady sertie
T
he Vintage 7-days Power Reserve by Franck Muller is a tribute to Art deco. Its Curvex shape, a contemporary reinterpretation of the famous tonneau or barrel design, houses a movement crafted in Geneva. The chapter ring and the railtrack seconds display at 6 o’clock subtly evoke its Belle epoque inspiration, while a discreet aperture at 11 o’clock reflects the modernity of its calibre endowed with a seven-day power reserve. In its ladies’ version, a diamond-set bezel provides a sparkling frame for its sunburst guilloché dial with shimmering reflections accentuating the deep blue shade of its two hands.
Ref. 8880 B S6 PR VIN
Vintage 7-Days Power Reserve Movement mechanical hand-wound, Calibre FM1700. Power reserve: 7 days. Functions hours, minutes, small seconds, power-reserve indication. Case steel, cintrée Curvex. Dimensions: 39.60 x 55.40 mm. Sapphire crystal. Water-resistant to 3 bar. Dial black enamel. Strap hand-sewn alligator leather. Price CHF 12,300.– Ref. 1752QZ DP 0 AC
Lady sertie Movement quartz. Functions hours, minutes. Case steel, diamond-set cintrée Curvex. Dimensions: 29 x 39 mm. Sapphire crystal. Water-resistant to 3 bar. Dial translucent lacquered white with stamped sunburst motif. Bracelet steel. Price CHF 12,200.– Total carat weight: 0.78 cts.
These new models will be available at Les Ambassadeurs boutiques in the course of the year.
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L.A _New Models
Girard-Perregaux Girard-Perregaux Sea Hawk Ceramic & Girard-Perregaux 1966 Lady 38 mm
T
he new sea Hawk Ceramic diver’s watch by Girard-Perregaux is a real eye-catcher thanks to its uncompromising aesthetic appeal. This sculptural model asserts itself thanks to its use of a black ceramic material ten times more resistant than steel, along with an unidirectional bezel and 300-metre water resistance. on the feminine side, with its 1966 lady 38 mm, Girard-Perregaux unveils an harmoniously curved design: to accentuate the perfect circle of its 38 mm case, the Manufacture has designed two half circles on its sunburst brushed dial, as if to mark off the ever-fleeting lines of time.
Ref. 49960-32-632-FK6A
Girard-Perregaux Sea Hawk Ceramic Movement mechanical self-winding, Girard-Perregaux Calibre GP0330-0074. Power reserve: 46 hours. Functions hours, minutes, small seconds, date. Power-reserve indication. Case ceramic. Diameter: 44 mm. Unidirectional rotating ceramic bezel. Cambered glareproofed sapphire crystal. Water-resistant to 300 m. Dial black. Strap rubber with PVD-finish ceramic-coated titanium buckle. Price CHF 13,900.– Ref. 49525D52ABD2-BK8A
Girard-Perregaux 1966 Lady 38 mm Movement mechanical self-winding, Girard-Perregaux Calibre GP0330-0066. Power reserve: 46 hours. Functions hours, minutes. Case 18K pink gold with diamond-set bezel. Diameter: 38 mm. Glareproofed sapphire crystal and case-back. Water-resistant to 30 m. Dial sunburst brushed with white mother-of-pearl marquetry and track set with 47 diamonds. Strap alligator leather with folding clasp. Price CHF 22,300.– Total carat weight: 1 ct.
These new models will be available at Les Ambassadeurs boutiques in the course of the year.
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New Models_ L.A
Greubel Forsey
Double Tourbillon Technique Black & Double Tourbillon Asymétrique
T
he first black timepiece from Greubel Forsey, the double Tourbillon Technique Black features a sculptural mechanism of which the central element, the double Tourbillon 30°, is displayed inside a handcrafted movement built on several levels giving a distinct sense of depth. This model representative of the brand in terms of both its openworked hands and perfect finishing is offered in a contemporary version boasting peerless chronometric precision. This same quest for precision drives the new double Tourbillon Asymétrique by Greubel Forsey. First introduced in 2008 and now offered in a white and red gold version, it ensures optimal reading of its essential functions: hours, minutes, small seconds and 72-hour power reserve.
Ref. 90002395
Double Tourbillon Technique Black Movement mechanical hand-wound, Calibre GF02s. Double Tourbillon 30°. Power reserve: 5 days. Functions hours, minutes, small seconds. Outer tourbillon 4-minute rotation indication. Inner tourbillon 60-second rotation. Power reserve displayed on a sector. Case titanium. Diameter: 47.50 mm. Cambered sapphire crystal and sapphire case-back. Individual numbering. Water-resistant to 3 bar. Strap hand-sewn rubber with Greubel Forsey folding clasp. Price CHF 529,200.– Ref. 91001775
Double Tourbillon Asymétrique Movement mechanical hand-wound, Calibre GF02A2. Double Tourbillon 30°. Power reserve: 72 hours. Functions hours, minutes, small seconds, disc-type power-reserve indication on a sector. Case 18K 5N red gold. Diameter: 43.50 mm. Cambered asymmetrical sapphire crystal and sapphire case-back. Individual numbering. Water-resistant to 3 bar. Dial black oxidised gold. Strap hand-sewn alligator leather with Greubel Forsey folding clasp. Price CHF 529,200.– Limited edition of 11. These new models will be available at Les Ambassadeurs boutiques in the course of the year.
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L.A _New Models
Harry Winston Opus XIII & Harry Winston Midnight Monochrome Automatic
H
arry winston has developed its thirteenth opus model in collaboration with independent watchmaker ludovic Ballouard. Its minutes are counted off by 59 hands that rotate and retreat in a uniquely choreographed ballet, while a central rotating disc indicates the hours. The Harry winston Midnight Monochrome Automatic offers a welcome treat for devotees of pure lines focusing on essentials. Its slate-grey effect dial is framed by a 42 mm white gold case housing a self-winding calibre with a 45-hour power reserve.
Ref. OPUMHM44WW001
Opus XIII Movement Functions Case Dial Strap Price
mechanical hand-wound, Calibre HW4101. Power reserve: 35 hours. hours, minutes. Hours displayed by 11 hands turning at 180 degrees and minutes via 59 hands turning at 40 degrees. 18K white gold. Diameter: 44.25 mm. Sapphire crystal and case-back. Water-resistant to 30 m. facetted sapphire dome. HW logo revealed in the centre at noon and midnight. hand-sewn alligator leather with folding clasp. CHF 294,900.– Limited edition of 130.
Ref. MIDAHD42WW003
Harry Winston Midnight Monochrome Automatic Movement mechanical self-winding, Calibre GP3300. Power reserve: 45 hours. Functions hours, minutes, date. Case 18K white gold. Diameter: 42 mm. Sapphire crystal and case-back. Water-resistant to 30 m. Dial slate-grey effect. Stamped “Harry Winston” logo and hour-markers. Strap hand-sewn alligator leather. Price CHF 22,100.– These new models will be available at Les Ambassadeurs boutiques in the course of the year.
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New Models_ L.A
Jaeger-LeCoultre Grande Reverso Lady Ultra Thin Duetto Duo & Master Calendar
J
aeger-leCoultre unveils the Grande Reverso lady Ultra Thin duetto duo on the occasion of its 180th anniversary. This twin-faced creation shows the hours and minutes on one side, and a second time zone on the other. exqusitely slender and graced with timeless aesthetic appeal, this model with its guilloché mother-of-pearl dial reflects the brand’s signature tradition of innovation. The harmonious new Master Calendar with its slimmer 39 mm diameter combines time and date displays with a moon phase. This understated and eminently readable model remains loyal to an harmonious design expressed through pink gold or steel versions.
Ref. 330 84 21
Grande Reverso Lady Ultra Thin Duetto Duo Movement mechanical hand-wound, Jaeger-LeCoultre Calibre 864/A. Power reserve: 48 hours. Functions front: hours, minutes. back: second time zone. Case steel, diamond-set back. Dimensions : 40 x 24 mm. Sapphire crystal and case-back. Water-resistant to 3 bar. Dial front: guilloché and sunburst silver-toned. back: mother-of-pearl marquetry. Strap alligator leather with folding clasp. Price CHF 11,000.– Total carat weight: 0.43 cts. Ref. 155 25 20
Master Calendar Movement mechanical self-winding, Jaeger-LeCoultre Calibre 866. Power reserve: 43 hours. Functions hours, minutes. Complete calendar indicating the date, day, month and moon phases. Case 18K pink gold. Diameter: 39 mm. Sapphire crystal and case-back. Water-resistant to 5 bar. Dial sunburst silver-toned.. Strap alligator leather. Price CHF 21,300.– These new models will be available at Les Ambassadeurs boutiques in the course of the year.
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L.A _New Models
Jaermann & Stübi Nick Faldo & Trans Atlantic
W
ith its new creation in tribute to golf champion sir Nick Faldo, issued in a 72-piece limited edition, Jaermann & stübi offers more than just a collector’s watch. This model embodies a piece of history, since each case is made from the shafts of the clubs used by Nick Faldo for his last professional tournament in 1987. This model shares with the Trans Atlantic the same in-house patented complication capable of counting each stroke played, the total number of strokes, as well as the number of holes. Jaermann & stübi offers a taste of horological excellence to all those eager to measure themselves against the finest exponents of their discipline.
Ref. NF1
Nick Faldo Movement mechanical self-winding, Calibre A10. Power reserve: 42 hours. Functions hours, minutes, seconds. JS02 mechanical golf counter. Retrograde display of the holes played. Indication of number of strokes per hole, of the total number of strokes and a handicap comparison. Case steel with integrated shock-absorber. Diameter: 44 mm. Cambered sapphire crystal and sapphire case-back. Water-resistant to 100 m. Dial engraved with guilloché motif. Strap rubber with folding clasp. Price CHF 24,500.– Limited edition of 72. Ref. TA4
Trans Atlantic Movement mechanical self-winding, Calibre A10. Chronometer-certified by the COSC. Power reserve: 42 hours. Functions hours, minutes, seconds. JS02 mechanical golf counter. Retrograde display of the holes played. Indication of number of strokes per hole, of the total number of strokes and a handicap comparison. Metre-yard conversion. Case steel with integrated shock-absorber. Diameter: 44 mm. Rotating bezel. Sapphire crystal and case-back. Water-resistant to 100 m. Dial engraved with guilloché motif. Strap rubber with folding clasp. Price CHF 8,000.– These new models will be available at Les Ambassadeurs boutiques in the course of the year.
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New Models_ L.A
Jaquet Droz
Grande Seconde Quantième & The Time Zones Côtes de Genève
W
ith its design that has remained unchanged over the centuries, the Grande seconde is an ode to aesthetic perfection. Framed by the 39 mm case and below the gentle curves of its hour dial, the Manufacture deploys its famous Grande seconde or large seconds display that now also welcomes a date hand. Bearing the same motif, The Time Zones Côtes de Genève model, also equipped with a Manufacture movement, features a 43 mm case surrounding a dial featuring a striking contrast between its white enamel counters, its black dial and its blue hands. The GMT function is complemented by a 24-hour indicator and a date.
Ref. J007010240
Grande Seconde Quantième mechanical self-winding, Jaquet Droz Calibre 2660Q2. Power reserve: 68 hours. Functions offset hours and minutes. Large seconds. Pointer-type date display at 6 o’clock. Case steel. Diameter: 39 mm. Sapphire crystal and case-back. Water-resistant to 3 bar. Individually numbered. Dial silver-toned. Strap hand rolled-edge alligator leather with folding clasp. Price CHF 9,650.– Movement
Ref. J015133240
The Time Zones Côtes de Genève Movement mechanical self-winding, Jaquet Droz Calibre 5L60. Power reserve: 68 hours. Functions offset hours and minutes. Small seconds at 6 o’clock. Date. Central 2nd time zone. 24-hour indication. Case 18K red gold. Diameter: 43 mm. Sapphire crystal and case-back. Water-resistant to 3 bar. Individually numbered. Dial black with opaline silver-toned counters. Strap hand rolled-edge alligator leather. Price CHF 25,200.– These new models will be available at Les Ambassadeurs boutiques in the course of the year.
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L.A _New Models
Longines
Conquest Classic & HydroConquest
T
he Conquest Classic combines the symbols of feminine elegance by associating gold, silver, motherof-pearl and diamonds. This contemporary model designed as a daily companion for active women, is also true to the principles of traditional watchmaking with its self-winding movement powering a date display and two broad luminescent hands. The new HydroConquest is also intended for daily life – that of divers. This elegant and technical model houses a mechanical calibre exclusively developed for longines. It is guaranteed water-resistant to 300 metres thanks to a screw-lock crown and screw-in case-back.
Ref. L2.285.5.88.7
Conquest Classic Movement mechanical self-winding, Calibre L595.2. Power reserve: 40 hours. Functions hours, minutes, seconds, date. Case steel and 18K pink gold set with diamonds. Diameter: 29.50 mm. Glareproofed sapphire crystal and sapphire case-back. Water-resistant to 5 bar. Dial white mother-of-pearl with 12 diamond hour-markers. Bracelet steel and 18K pink gold with triple folding clasp. Price CHF 5,290.– Ref. L3.695.4.53.2
HydroConquest Movement mechanical self-winding, Calibre L619.2. Power reserve: 42 hours. Functions hours, minutes, seconds, date. Case steel. Diameter: 41 mm. Unidirectional rotating bezel. Glareproofed sapphire crystal. Water-resistant to 30 bar. Dial black. Strap rubber with folding clasp. Price CHF 1,150.–
These new models will be available at Les Ambassadeurs boutiques in the course of the year.
Page 70 | L.A 12 |
New Models_ L.A
Panerai
Radiomir 1940 Oro Rosso – 42 MM & Luminor 1950 Regatta 3 Days Chrono Flyback Titanio – 47 MM
T
he playful and simple luminor 1950 Regatta 3 days Chrono Flyback Titanio – 47 MM is designed as a tribute to Panerai’s maritime commitment. A few presses enable the user to position and activate a countdown timer which, once it has fulfilled its mission, serves as a flyback chronograph. This sporty and contemporary Panerai model has a three-day power reserve thanks to its Manufacture movement. Panerai also presents the new Radiomir 1940 oro Rosso – 42 MM, driven by its famous P.999 hand-wound movement, the smallest and thinnest in its collection. The new red gold finish of this model from the Historic collection highlights both its pleasing proportions and its harmonious aesthetic.
Ref. PAM00513
Radiomir 1940 Oro Rosso – 42 MM Movement mechanical hand-wound, Panerai Calibre P.999. Power reserve: 60 hours. Functions hours, minutes, small seconds. Case 18K red gold. Diameter: 42 mm. Glarerpoofed sapphire crystal and sapphire case-back. Water-resistant to 10 bar. Dial brown with luminescent hour-markers, Arabic numerals and hands. Strap alligator leather with Panerai buckle. Price CHF 18,800.– Ref. PAM00526
Luminor 1950 Regatta 3 Days Chrono Flyback Titanio – 47 MM Movement mechanical self-winding, Panerai Calibre P.9100/R. Power reserve: 72 hours. Functions hours, minutes, small seconds. Flyback chronograph, columnwheel, sweep-seconds hand, 12-hour counter, countdown timer function. Inner bezel ring with scale graduated in nautical knots. Seconds zero reset. Case satin-brushed titanium. Diameter. 47 mm. Glareproofed sapphire crystal and sapphire case-back. Water-resistant to 10 bar. Dial black with luminescent hour-markers, Arabic numerals and hands. Strap rubber with Panerai buckle. Price CHF 15,700.– These new models will be available at Les Ambassadeurs boutiques in the course of the year.
| L.A 12 |
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L.A _New Models
Roger Dubuis
Excalibur Double Skeleton Tourbillon – Limited Edition & Excalibur 36 Steel and Diamonds
T
he architectural and even sculptural excalibur double skeleton Tourbillon – limited edition is a powerful and contemporary model equipped with a Manufacturemade Fine watchmaking movement and issued in a 188-piece limited edition. Its generous 45 mm diameter offers a plunging view of two openworked flying tourbillons that only Roger dubuis is currently capable of executing. The excalibur 36 steel and diamonds displays a unique balance between these two materials within a slim 36 mm case featuring equally slender elongated hour-markers. with its gem-set fluted bezel and its small seconds at 6 o’clock, this model radiates an aura of timeless, self-assured chic.
Ref. RDDBEX0397
Excalibur Double Skeleton Tourbillon – Limited Edition Movement mechanical hand-wound, Calibre RD01SQ, Poinçon de Genève quality hallmark. Power reserve: 48 hours. Functions hours, minutes. Flying double tourbillon with differential. Case 18K pink gold with ceramic bezel. Diameter: 45 mm. Glareproofed sapphire crystal and case-back. Water-resistant to 5 bar. Dial openworked. Strap hand-sewn alligator leather with folding clasp. Price CHF 309,000.– Limited edition of 188. Ref. RDDBEX0377
Excalibur 36 Steel and Diamonds Movement mechanical self-winding, Calibre RD821, Poinçon de Genève quality hallmark. Power reserve: 48 hours. Functions hours, minutes, small seconds. Case steel with diamond-set bezel. Diameter: 36 mm. Glareproofed sapphire crystal and case-back. Water-resistant to 3 bar. Dial semi-matt varnished white. Bracelet steel. Price CHF 21,600.– Total carat weight: 0.99 cts. These new models will be available at Les Ambassadeurs boutiques in the course of the year.
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New Models_ L.A
Tiffany & Co.
Tiffany Gemea & Atlas Cocktail
T
he Gemea by Tiffany plays with traditional aesthetic codes and reappropriates them in a unique way. Its tonneau shape is extensively stretched and its gemsetting is asymmetrical. A natural ally of refined elegance, Gemea offers a modern aesthetic to all those seeking a bold design. The Atlas Cocktail shares this same original vision of an evening watch, appearing clothed in mother-of-pearl and set with diamonds adorning a discreet two-hand dial creating a vivid contrast with its majestic Roman numerals.
Ref. Z6400.10.40E10A40E
Tiffany Gemea Movement quartz. Functions hours, minutes. Case diamond-set 18K white gold. Dimensions: 18.20 x 27.20 mm. Sapphire crystal glareproofed on both sides. Water-resistant to 3 bar. Dial black. Strap satin with diamond-set buckle. Price CHF 11,670.– Total carat weight: 0.61 cts. Ref. Z1902.10.40E91A40B
Atlas Cocktail Movement quartz. Functions hours, minutes. Case diamond-set 18K white gold. Diameter: 36 mm. Sapphire crystal glareproofed on both sides. Water-resistant to 3 bar. Dial white mother-of-pearl. Strap satin with diamond-set buckle. Price CHF 29,160.–
Total carat weight: 1.77 cts.
These models are available at Les Ambassadeurs boutiques.
| L.A 12 |
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L.A _New Models
Ulysse Nardin
Skeleton Tourbillon Manufacture & Marine Chronograph Manufacture
W
hen watchmaking meets art and innovation embraces tradition, the result is a prestigious timepiece such as this skeleton Tourbillon Manufacture from Ulysse Nardin. Its movement is designed to merge with the spectacular highlighting of its pure, restrained aesthetic. The new Marine Chronograph Manufacture embodies the 170 years during which Ulysse Nardin has remained firmly anchored in the world of marine chronometry. Its Grand Feu enamel dial protects a self-winding calibre with date and small seconds, crafted by the Manufacture and housed in a 43 mm case ensuring perfect readability.
Ref. 1702-129
Skeleton Tourbillon Manufacture Movement mechanical hand-wound, Calibre UN-170. Power reserve: 170 hours. Functions hours, minutes. Tourbillon. Case 18K red gold. Diameter: 44 mm. Glareproofed sapphire crystal and case-back. Water-resistant to 30 m. Strap alligator leather. Price CHF 69,000.– Limited edition of 99. Ref. 1506-150/LE
Marine Chronograph Manufacture Movement mechanical self-winding, Calibre UN-150. Power reserve: 48 hours. Functions hours, minutes, small seconds, date. Chronograph with sweep-seconds hand, 30-minute and 12-hour counters. Case 18K pink gold. . Diameter: 43 mm. Glareproofed sapphire crystal and sapphire case-back. Water-resistant to 100 m. Dial Grand Feu enamel. Strap leather with folding clasp. Price CHF 38,800.– Limited edition of 150.
These new models will be available at Les Ambassadeurs boutiques in the course of the year.
Page 74 | L.A 12 |
New Models_ L.A
URWERK
UR-110 PT & UR-210 AlTiN
U
rwerk unveils a platinum version of its UR-110. This model comprises all the complications for which it has become famous: central carrousel, hour satellites, as well as the famous “oil Change” indicator showing when it’s time for a maintenance service. In its titanium livery topped by a platinum bezel, the UR-110 PT asserts a radical aesthetic shared by the UR-210 AlTiN. The latter is clothed in an ultra-resistant alloy developed for industry and features a winding efficiency indicator representing an authentic physical link between the watch and its owner – by displaying his interaction with the model’s remaining power reserve. Urwerk’s characteristic satellite-type movement may be admired through the panoramic glass of the UR-210 AlTiN.
Ref. UR-110 PT
UR-110 PT Movement Functions
Case Dial Strap Price
mechanical self-winding, regulated by turbines, Calibre UR 9.01. Power reserve: 39 hours. satellite complication with mobile hour modules on planetary gears, minutes. Control Board with day/night and “Oil Change” indications, and a 60-second counter. titanium with platinum bezel. Dimensions: 47 x 51 mm. Sapphire crystal. Water-resistant to 30 m. silver-toned and black. leather. CHF 110,160.– Limited edition of 20.
Ref. UR-210
UR-210 AlTiN Movement mechanical self-winding, regulated by turbines, Calibre UR 7.10. Power reserve: 39 hours. Functions patented satellite complication with wandering hours and retrograde minutes. Power-reserve indication. Winding efficiency display. On the back, automatic winding regulation system. Case titanium and steel with AltiN* coating. Dimensions: 43.80 x 53.60 mm. Sapphire crystal. Water-resistant to 30 m. Dial black. Strap leather. Price CHF 156,600.– *Aluminium, Titanium, Nitride. These new models will be available at Les Ambassadeurs boutiques in the course of the year.
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L.A _New Models
Vacheron Constantin Patrimony Traditionnelle small seconds & Patrimony Contemporaine Lady gold bracelet
A
paragon of aesthetic restraint and horological discretion, the Patrimony Traditionnelle small seconds appears in a 38 mm version with a platinum case. Beneath its deep grey dial bearing a small seconds subdial at 6 o’clock beats a Manufacture-made calibre with a 65-hour power reserve bearing the Poinçon de Genève quality hallmark – testifying to its precision as well as to the excellence of its finishes. This same spirit of horological excellence guides the Patrimony Contemporaine lady gold bracelet. Its harmoniously balanced diamondset minute circle becomes a stylistic element that highlights the decidedly modern nature of this 36 mm self-winding timepiece.
Ref. 82172/000P-9811
Patrimony Traditionnelle small seconds Movement mechanical hand-wound, Manufacture Vacheron Constantin Calibre 4400 AS, Poinçon de Genève quality hallmark. Power reserve: 65 hours. Functions hours, minutes, small seconds. Case platinum. Diameter: 38 mm. Sapphire crystal and case-back. Water-resistant to 3 bar. Dial anthracite. Strap hand-sewn alligator leather. Price CHF 32,100.– Ref. 85515/CA1R 9840
Patrimony Contemporaine Lady gold bracelet Movement mechanical self-winding, Manufacture Vacheron Constantin Calibre 2450 Q6, Poinçon de Genève quality hallmark. Power reserve: 40 hours. Functions hours, minutes, seconds, date. Case 18K 5N pink gold with diamond-set bezel. Diameter: 36 mm. Sapphire crystal and case-back. Water-resistant to 3 bar. Dial opaline silver-toned with diamond-set minute circle. Bracelet 18K 5N pink gold with folding clasp. Price CHF 46,900.– Total carat weight: 0.96 cts. These new models will be available at Les Ambassadeurs boutiques in the course of the year.
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New Models_ L.A
Vulcain
Nautical Seventies & 50s Presidents’ Watch – Cricket President
C
apable of making its mechanical alarm clearly audible at a depth of 300 metres, the Nautical seventies provides divers with an indication of the requisite decompression stops. loyal to the original model, this 300-piece limited edition is also fitted with a hesalite watch glass that amplifies the sound, while its triple case-back serves as a resonance chamber. The 50s Presidents’ watch – Cricket President has also become a watchmaking legend with its Manufacture-made alarm and date movement. In its new blue version, the Cricket President honours a timeless model that has made its way unscathed across the generations.
Ref. 100159.081L
Nautical Seventies Movement mechanical hand-wound, Vulcain Cricket alarm Calibre V-10. Power reserve: 42 hours. Functions hours, minute, seconds. Alarm. Indication of diving decompression tables and 60-minute graduated rotating inner bezel ring. Case steel. Diameter: 42 mm. Hesalite watch glass. Triple case-back serving as a resonance chamber and enabling underwater use of the alarm function. Water-resistant to 300 m. Dial orange. Strap black and orange leather. Price CHF 4,650.– Limited edition of 300. Ref. 160151.326L
50s Presidents’ Watch – Cricket President Movement mechanical hand-wound, Vulcain Cricket alarm Calibre V-16. Power reserve: 42 hours. Functions hours, minutes, seconds, date, alarm. Case steel. Diameter: 42 mm. Cambered sapphire crystal and sapphire case-back. Water-resistant to 50 m. Dial sunburst blue. Strap alligator leather. Price CHF 5,880.– These new models will be available at Les Ambassadeurs boutiques in the course of the year.
| L.A 12 |
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L.A _New Models
Buben&Zörweg
Solitaire World Time Tourbillon
W
ith the solitaire world Time Tourbillon, Buben&Zörweg takes its quest for the ultimate safe for timepieces, spirits and cigars to a whole new level. In this 75-piece limited edition comprising 46 automatic Time Movers® of which 8 are in the safe itself, the company reveals the full extent of its expertise: from precious woods through Italian leathers to the built-in Hi-Fi system, the solitaire world Time Tourbillon is an anthem to fine craftsmanship incorporating an authentic flying tourbillon specially developed for Buben&Zörweg. A “time-keeper” in both literal and figurative senses of the term, this creation featuring a contemporary design offers the best of Germanic excellence.
• 46 TIME MOVER® (8 of them in the safe) • BUBEN&ZÖRWEG Safe SI-60 • Additional storage for watches and jewellery in 2 drawers • Humidor with a German electronic humidifying system and a bar/presentation module • 16 mm bullet-proof glass doors, robust stainless steel hinges • BUBEN&ZÖRWEG safety lock mechanism • Alarm system • German Hi-Fi system with Bluetooth and iPhone/iPod docking station • Integrated thermometer and hygrometer displays • State-of-the-art LED lighting technology with fading function • Optionally available with bulletproof two-way mirror spy glass • Finest German craftsmanship • Mains operation • Dimensions: 1905 x 1060 x 540 mm • Weight: 350 kg FINE TIMEPIECE • Flying minute tourbillon with incorporated BUBEN&ZÖRWEG initials • Swiss escapement with screw balance wheel and 11 jewel bearings • 15 day German precision movement with constant power • Indication of world time, date and power reserve • Exquisite, ruthenium-coated dial with sunray-brush, goldstone bezel and glass chapter ring • 500 hours BUBEN&ZÖRWEG “Excellence Control” • Price: CHF 191,200.– Limited edition of 75.
This new model will be available at Les Ambassadeurs boutiques in the course of the year.
Page 78 | L.A 12 |
New Models_ L.A
Vertu Vertu Ti
T
he culmination of over 10 years of engineering and craftsmanship in the world of luxury mobile phones, the new Vertu Ti features a titanium body and a sapphire crystal screen guaranteeing incomparable resistance to shocks and scratching. Its pure, timeless design houses state-of-the-art technology based on an Android operating system. In addition to the famous Vertu Concierge service, the Ti also offers a phone data protection service as well as customised access to a broad range of information and personalised advantages. Hand-assembled and signed, the Ti is a concentrated blend of Vertu excellence.
SPECIFICATIONS • Length: 130.4 mm. Width: 58.9 mm. Depth: 12.8 mm. • Weight: 181 g to 201 g • High-resolution display with sapphire crystal • Precision-engineered key switches with jewelled bearings • High-fidelity 11 mm x 15 mm loudspeaker with dual sound ports TECHNOLOGy • AndroidTM 4.0 (Ice Cream Sandwich) • Qualcomm® SnapdragonTM Dual-core 1.7 GHz • 3.7’’ WVGA landscape, brilliant, high contrast display • 8 MP main camera with AF and twin LED flash • 1.3 MP Skype compliant front camera • 64 GB of internal memory • A-GPS + Compass • Gyro and accelerometer for orientation and game play • Up to 7 hours 20 minute WCDMA talk time • Bluetooth / Micro USB / WLAN • Audio socket • NFC secure technology • WiFi hotspot • 3 G and Quadband GSM coverage worldwide • PC and Mac synchronisation • Modem support • MMS/SMS • 4 GB user memory • Worldmate travel application • Web browser ExCLUSIVE SERVICES • Vertu Concierge • Vertu Life • Vertu Certainty Vertu Ti Polished black leather / Price: CHF 9,200.– Vertu Ti Pure Black / Price: CHF 11,100.–
These new models will be available at Les Ambassadeurs boutiques in the course of the year.
| L.A 12 |
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Next
CREDITS
L.A Magazine The twice-yearly magazine for clients of Les Ambassadeurs.
A Swiss magazine published by Les Ambassadeurs with a 80,000 copy run in German, English, French, Italian, Russian and Chinese.
An exclusive reflection of the must-have watch and jewellery creations, the next issue of L.A will be published in November 2013. Have it delivered directly to your door by using the form below, or check out the online version at www.lesambassadeurs.ch [ ] Mr
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Lausanne (www.enzed.ch)
Photoshoot
Swiss Transport Museum, Lucerne
Translation
Susan Jacquet (English), Lapsus Linguae Sàrl (German), Silvano Daniele (Italian), Lapsus Linguae Sàrl (Russian), Lapsus Linguae Sàrl (Chinese) Proofreading Christiane Lalieu (French), Transcribe (English), Lapsus Linguae Sàrl (German), Gabriella Daniele (Italian), Lapsus Linguae Sàrl (Russian), Lapsus Linguae Sàrl (Chinese) Photolithography
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