Simply Abu Dhabi XX

8 3 S I M P LY A B U DH A B I T he Opus saga continues with a bold and dynamic new chapter. Established in 2001, the Opus concept unites independent watchmakers with Harry Winston to create one-of-a-kind watches that defy the norm. The Opus 14 was launched in October at Baden-Baden to great fanfare and a suitably American-styled party. Embracing the aesthetics and cultural icons of the 1950s, those who attended enjoyed a night of great rock ‘n’ roll music, 1950s American cars, and the ever- popular USA style diner image, with ladies decked out in 1950s outfits and old school roller skates adding to the glamour. The concept for the 14th edition was conceived before the global watchmaking giant Swatch acquired the Harry Winston brand. But when details of the project were presented to the Swatch Chair of the Board of Directors and CEO of Harry WinstonNayla Hayek, and her son Marc Hayek, member of the Executive Group Management Board of Swatch Group and CEO of Blancpain, Breguet and Jaquet Droz, their response was positive and supportive. “The first time we saw this project we fell in love with it,” said Nayla Hayek, the only chairwoman in Swiss corporate business. “It’s Hollywood. It’s America. It’s Harry Winston,” she added. Marc Hayek concurred saying, “We really wanted to make it happen. Seeing the idea and bringing it to life is fantastic.” As the first Opus timepiece launched by Harry Winston under Swatch Group ownership the reaction of the world’s watch commentariat was important – and as Fonzie might have reacted inHappy Days after fixing the jukebox with a perfect tap, it gets two thumbs up. The wonderful 1950s treasure of the jukebox is exactly where the Opus 14 takes its inspiration from and the miniaturisation of the jukebox mechanism is a world-first that has been patented by Harry Winston. H a r r y W i n s t o n Opus 14