Simply Abu Dhabi XX

1 3 1 S I M P LY A B U DH A B I The timepiece itself is powered by a quartz movement and it can be worn either way, with the watch at the front of the sphere with the mother-of-pearl dial on show, or the wearer can opt for the reverse displaying the finely crafted piece of art. This white gold half-sphere has been transformed into an abstract flower with sun-glowing colours bringing the petals to life with expert cloisonné enamelling. It is a challenging task for the artisan and this complex geometrical operation demands a steady hand and a keen eye for the insertion of white gold cloisons, or partitions. The partitions house the various shades of enamel, and starting in the centre, the artist will carefully shape the delicate gold ribbons until she has them perfectly moulded into the right curvature for the sphere. The mastery of the enameller’s art rests in Zen-like patience and allowing for the most precise adjustment of each partition and of the surface of the dome. If this fitting and joining process were not to be carried out with flawless accuracy, the molten enamels would seep out and ruin the piece. When the colour is applied the artisan uses her brush and the finely crushed enamel powder to fill these white gold- hemmed petals. The vibrancy of the harmonious selection of lively colours leaps out after several firings in the kiln at temperatures around 800°C. Worn with a white-gold chain, the watch has an inverted and upside-down dial so that the wearer can easily look down to read the time. The Pendentif Boule presents a playful and dancing kaleidoscope of colour and is for women what the pocket watch is for men: an affectation born of nostalgia and a desire for something different… and it will be loved.