enamel Archives - Haute Time

The Jaquet Droz Petite Heure Minute Smalta Clara: A New Chapter In Transparancy

When Jaquet Droz launched in 2018 their first pieces utilizing the plique-à-jour enameling technique, the world was in awe. Not so surprising, because while this very demanding technique already exists for over 1500 years, very few still master it. What makes it so unique is that it doesn't have a base. Instead, a frame of gold wire is created in a pattern. The parts in between are filled with enamel powder, after which successive firings at high temperatures create the mesmerizing, translucent enamel with the look of a miniature window of stained glass.

By Martin Green

Hermès Dazzles With Slim d’Hermès La Source de Pégase

Hermès has always been a brand that feels very passionate about the metiers d'art. Many of their watches celebrate a great diversity of crafts. With that, Hermès is also playing a vital role in safekeeping these often rare forms of expertise for future generations. For their latest creation, the Slim d'Hermès La Source de Pégase, they give center stage to a mythical animal brought to life through engraving, miniature painting, and straw marquetry.

Patek Philippe Launches Not One, But Three New Grand Complications

With the cancelation of Baselworld, it could have very well been a year in which Patek Philippe wouldn't launch a single new watch. However, that is fortunately not the case, as they introduce not one, but three new grand complications. While some are varieties on already existing watches, they all bring something new to the table that makes them very desirable.

Breguet Is Betting On Blue With New Models

Blue is here to stay, not only for nautical-inspired watches but throughout the spectrum of different types of timepieces. This can hardly come as a surprise as the color often strikes just the right tone and can just as easily be worn with formal wear as well as match with something casual. However, when a brand like Breguet is also betting big on blue, donning some of its most classic creations in this color, we have truly confirmation that blue has arrived.

Future Classic: Vacheron Constantin Hommage Aux Grands Explorateurs “Marco Polo”

Some watches are too young to be considered a classic, yet despite this firmly on their way of achieving this status as the years will pass. A good example of this is the Vacheron Constantin Hommage Aux Grands Explorateurs "Marco Polo." Paying tribute to the greatest explorers of all time did Vacheron Constantin map out Marco Polo's travels over the silk road. They do so in cloisonné enamel and dedicate the vast majority of the dial to it.

Jaquet Droz’s Parrots For Your Pocket

Pocket watches are, for the most part, a thing of the past. Where the (mechanical) wristwatch is still firmly holding ground, has there been a tremendous decline in the sales of pocket watches. That doesn't stop some brands from still making them on occasion, even when it is a one-off like this stunning Parrot Repeater pocket watch by Jaquet Droz.

Haute Complication: Patek Philippe 5231J World Time

The World Time watch holds a very special position in both the history of Patek Philippe, as well as in their current collection. It is one of those watches that has become an icon, and the most desirable versions feature a Cloisonné enamel center. This year Patek Philippe launched an addition to their collection of World Time watches with the 5231J.

Haute Complication: Jaeger-LeCoultre Master Grande Tradition Gyrotourbillon Westminster Perpétuel

Jaeger-LeCoultre has a long-standing tradition of creating Grand Complications that make sure that your heart skips a beat. Even without seeing the watch itself, their latest creation fills you with anticipation, in particular, because of the last three words of its name: Gyrotourbillon Westminster Perpétuel.

Breguet Classique 5177; The Luscious Seduction Of Blue Enamel

There is no denying that there is something special about grand feu enamel. This classic material gives a watch a unique lustre, and every watch connoisseur is familiar with the skills needed to create such a dial. In general, white is the color of choice when brands craft such a dial, but Breguet now shows us the luscious seduction when you opt for blue instead.

The Big Cats Of Cartier: A Legacy Of Craftsmanship

When you say Cartier, you also say cats, big cats to be precise, as they have been for decades a rich source of inspiration for the brand. A big influence in this was Jeanne Toussaint (1887 - 1978) who became the brand's director of jewelry design in 1933. The story goes that she was on safari in Africa with Louis Cartier when they encountered a panther. She immediately envisioned a piece of jewelry, as she apparently exclaimed: 'Diamonds, onyx, emeralds; a brooch!.' When back in Paris, she immediately went to work, and a legend was born!

Haute Time’s Five Favorite Ladies Watches From Baselworld

This years edition of Baselworld was also the scene where quite a few stunning watches for ladies where introduced. Only a couple of years ago quartz still ruled supreme, but today most of the leading watch brands have extensive collections of mechanical ladies watches. That doesn't make it any easier for us to select our favourites, but it does make it all the more fun!

Pre-Baselworld 2018: Jaquet Droz Grande Seconde Moon Black Enamel

Grand Feu enamel remains a unique material. While challenging to make, this doesn't stop certain watch brands to create dials from it. Reason for this is that rich, glossy look, that tells connoisseurs that they are holding something special. Last year Jaquet Droz introduced at Baselworld the Grande Seconde Moon in a red gold case and with an ivory Grand Feu enamel dial, and this year they are extending the collection with the Grande Seconde Moon Black Enamel.

The Exciting Pre-SIHH 2018 Models Of Ulysse Nardin and Hermes

The announcement of the pre-SIHH models always feels like Christmas is coming early! These previews most certainly wet the appetite, and are a sign of great things to come! Among the brands that participate at the SIHH, Cartier, Ulysse Nardin, and Hermès have already given us a taste what to expect this January.

Throwback Thursday: Rolex ref. 6085 “The Dragon”

When it comes to vintage Rolex some of the most coveted pieces are their famed cloisonné enamel dials, such as fitted on this ref. 6085, nicknamed "The Dragon."