This spring, Chanel celebrated a decade of showcasing its classic timepieces at Baselworld by introducing new editions in a intricately-designed space on three levels (spread across 500 square metres each) by American architect Peter Marino, also known for tailoring the boutiques of several luxe brands across the globe.
The latest version of Chanel’s first unisex collection, J12 – renowned for its usage of high-tech ceramic and sapphire glass – was exhibited at this event. Three new editions of this iconic series were put on show: White, Black and Chromatic J12. Of the White collection, The Phantom (limited to 2,000 pieces worldwide) has been created exclusively to mark a decade of its display at Baselworld, and as proof, carries an engraving on the steel back case. Boasting a beautiful white dial with a high-precision quartz movement, the watch also features a 200-metre water resistance.
The ostentatious J12 Black series, known for its prime usage of baguette diamond bezels, added an extra flash factor this time around: the new 33mm ebony beauty, priced at $150,000, features 34 bezel diamonds, 12 indicator diamonds and one brilliant-cut diamond in the white gold crown set. Adding a gray area to the black and white, the J12 Chromatic from the High Jewellery Collection emits a silvery feel, even though its base materials comprise of a mix of titanium, diamond powder and high-tech ceramic (a technique initially employed by Chanel in 2011). Priced at $16,100, this stunning piece includes 580 baguettes that complement with its subtle metallic hue.
In addition to these watches, the new line of Chanel Premieré also made an appearance. Inspired from the chamfered-raised rectangular-shaped N perfume bottle stopper, the series is individualized with its dominant chain strap, and is available in steel, yellow gold and white gold, Certainly the most exquisite timepiece from the Premieré line is the Premieré Flying Tourbillon. Offering four luxurious variants that are encrusted with diamonds, sapphires, and rubies with a choice of finely finished alligator skin or satin straps, the watch is priced at $276,000.
The last of the lot, the Mademoiselle Privé series has been inspired by Gabrielle ‘Coco’ Chanel’s favourite symbols: extensive flora and a single boat that have been skillfully rendered on the dial as engravings of the Décor-Joaillerie line. Snow-set diamonds sit on an 18-karat white gold case of the handcrafted timepiece that is powered by self-winding mechanical movement. Priced to start from $288,000, only 20 pieces of this particular horological wonder are available worldwide.
Text by Srishti Ahuja