Baselworld 2016 kicks off tomorrow, taking place in Switzerland from March 17—24. All this week and next Whitewall will be showcasing highlights from watchmakers and their newest and most novel timepieces. First up are offerings from Chopard, De Grisogono, and Glashütte.
Chopard
Geneva watchmaker Chopard knotted together the East and West with its latest release: the L.U.C XP Esprit de Fleurier Peony. A limited-edition of Chopard’s ultra-thin L.U.C XP Esprit de Fleurier, this ornate wristwatch features a dial blossoming with masterful Fleurisanne engraving, created by carving away surrounding metal to leave a raised pattern, and stippling the background to bring the relief into greater focus. The diamond-set peony motif carries historical significance from both China and Greece, adding an extra feminine flourish to the mother-of-pearl dial. Set in a 35mm rose gold case on a brushed grey canvas strap, the Esprit de Fleurier Peony combines elegance and intricacy with exclusivity, with only eight pieces to be released.
Senator Chronometer. Courtesy of Glashütte.
De Grisogono
De Grisogono drew inspiration from the 1950s to create its latest series of four elegant timepieces. The New Retro Lady Baguette-Cut features all the glamour of the company’s 2015 New Retro Lady series, rooted in the refined flair and style of a First Lady, created in rubies, emeralds, sapphires, and diamonds to reflect the four elements: fire, earth, water, and wind respectively. With rounded edges reimagined as lines and angles, these chic editions feature automatic movements, boldly colored Arabic numerals, pink or white gold cases, and matching galuchat straps, bringing out the studded texture of the gems.
Glashütte
German watchmaker Glashütte debuted the midnight blue remake of its traditional Senator model: the Senator Chronometer. Inspired by historic marine chronometers, this sleek wristwatch showcases a textured dial, crafted with detailed layers of lacquer to create a velvet illusion. A 42mm case and slender hands, both made of white gold, highlight the silver engraved numerals, while a sapphire crystal case back exposes the ornate, hand-engraved machinery within this manually wound timepiece. Finishing touches include a deep-set seconds indicator the 44-hour power reserve display at 12 o’clock, and a midnight blue Louisiana alligator strap to polish off this handsome edition.
L.U.C XP Esprit de Fleurier Peony. Courtesy of Chopard.
Baselworld 2016 takes place from March 17—24.
