SimplyAbuDhabi XLIV

Jacob Arabo Ch i e f E x e cu t i v e Of f i cer at J acob & Co J acob Arabo’s journey from Soviet immigrant to luxury watchmaking icon is a testament to the power of creativity, perseverance, and audacious dreams. Born in Tashkent, Uzbekistan in 1965, Arabo arrived in New York at 14 with his family, carrying little more than hope for a better life. This young immigrant’s fascination with intricate mechanisms and bold designs would eventually revolutionize the world of haute horlogerie and jewellery. Arabo’s path was unconventional from the start. Forgoing traditional education, he immersed himself in the art of jewellery making, honing his skills through an apprenticeship and a jewellery-making course. His innate talent for design, which he attributes partly to his early photography training, set him apart in New York’s bustling Diamond District. In 1986, at just 21, Arabo founded Jacob & Co., marking the beginning of a brand that would challenge conventions in both jewellery and watchmaking. His bold, innovative designs caught the attention of hip-hop artists and celebrities, earning him the moniker “Jacob the Jeweller” and cementing his status in pop culture. This unique position at the intersection of luxury and entertainment became a hallmark of Arabo’s career. Arabo’s transition from jeweller towatchmaker was driven by a lifelong passion. Inspired by a dual time zone watch gifted by his father, Arabo dreamed of creating timepieces that pushed the boundaries of what was possible. His entry into the world of haute horlogerie was marked by the creation of the Five Time Zone watch in 2002, a piece that blended functionality with bold aesthetics. Despite initial scepticism from the Swiss watchmaking establishment,Arabo persevered. The creation of Jacob & Co. SA in Geneva in 2007 marked his serious entry into high- end watchmaking. The Quenttin, with its revolutionary vertical tourbillon and 31-day power reserve, announcedArabo’s intentions to the watchmaking world - he was here to make the impossible possible. Arabo’s creations, from the SF24 to the Astronomia Tourbillon series, demonstrate his commitment to innovation and artistic expression in watchmaking. Each piece is a testament to his motto: “I have not yet begun to create.” His fearless approach to design and complications has earned Jacob & Co. a unique place in the luxury watch market, appealing to collectors who seek the extraordinary. What sets Arabo apart is his unwavering commitment to creativity and innovation. “I have to create,” he says, driven by a dream to invent things that haven’t been done before. This passion is evident in every Jacob & Co. creation, from jewellery to complicated timepieces. Arabo’s approach combines the daring, entrepreneurial spirit of America with the precision and tradition of Swiss watchmaking. Despite facing challenges, including legal troubles in the mid-2000s, Arabo’s resilience and dedication to his craft have seen him through. Today, Jacob & Co. stands as a brand known for pushing the limits of high horology and high jewellery. Partnerships with entities like Bugatti and football legend Lionel Messi further cement the brand’s status in the luxury world. Jacob Arabo’s story is more than a tale of personal success; it’s a reflection of the changing face of luxury in the 21st century. From his modest beginnings to his current status as a trailblazer in the world of high-end jewellery and watches, Arabo embodies the idea that with vision, skill, and determination, one can reshape an entire industry. As Jacob&Co. continues to evolve,Arabo remains committed to his founding principles: fearlessness, innovation, and creativity. His goal is clear - to make the impossible a reality. In an industry often bound by tradition, Jacob Arabo stands out as a visionary, always working on the next ground-breaking idea that will shake up the status quo. For Jacob Arabo, the journey from immigrant jeweller to luxury watchmaking icon is far from over. As he continues to push the boundaries of what’s possible in luxury watchmaking and jewellery design, the world watches with anticipation, eager to see what impossible dream this modern-day alchemist will turn into reality next. Simply Abu Dhabi | 99