Elite Traveler Summer 2022

TIME AND LIFE Watchmakers have been enamored with creating Métiers d’Arts watch dials for centuries. Early clocks and pocket watches often showcased jewels and miniature paintings. Now, however, artisans take this work to all-new levels as brands work with marquetry, gold, gemstones and all sorts of paintings to bring nature seemingly to life, as they become more conscious than ever of Earth’s many riches.

BULGARI An icon in the Bulgari collection, the Serpenti conjures images of Cleopatra or Adam and Eve. This secret Serpenti Misteriosi High Jewelry watch is crafted in 18-karat rose gold that wraps around the wrist several times to form the body of the serpent. The beautifully sculpted bracelet is set with 724 diamonds and turquoise inserts. Two pear-cut rubellites form the eyes of the serpent, whose head opens to reveal the diamond-adorned watch dial within. $251,000, bulgari.com PIAGET This enchanting California Lights Cuff watch is a floral masterpiece that almost defies time. It is crafted in 18-karat white gold and meticulously set with diamonds, emeralds and sapphires — whose brilliant green and blue hues complement the others tones beautifully — and black opals. The watch dial is made of a slice of opal weighing 1.14 carats and is surrounded by diamonds. In total, in addition to the dial, the watch boasts more than 30 carats of gemstones, including 269 diamonds (12.54 carats), 22 sapphires (14.25 carats), eight emeralds (4.05 carats) and seven opals (1.36 carats). Price on request, piaget.com