The Jacob and Co Grand Baguette Design five timezone revealed at Baselworld this year, created by Jacques Fournier from studio Horology Design Limited, was transformed into one of the most astonishing examples of the diamond cutter and diamond setter’s art:
The Grand Baguette Timepiece.
Not without reason is the name of Jacob & Co synonymous with diamonds, and with diamond set timepieces that almost defy description in their beauty and complexity.
This astonishing horological and gemological masterpiece presented an enormous challenge to realize. Horological gem setting is one of the most, if not the most, demanding branch of sertissage (the art of gem setting.) There are several reasons for this. The first is that the geometry of a watch case and dial place severe constraints on the geometry of each stone, and in a fully decorated timepiece like the Grand Baguette, there are many stones which must be cut and polished to extremely close tolerances in order to produce the unbroken, scintillating surface which is the gem‐setter’s goal.
The second is that because each stone is in close proximity to its neighbors, each must be as perfectly matched as possible in terms of color, fire, and clarity in order for the timepiece to present a harmonious overall appearance –especially as each stone is in an invisible setting, which would make even the slightest error in shape or mismatch in color and clarity apparent. The baguette cut also emphasizes the clarity, luster, and whiteness of a diamond but this same property can reveal even the slightest flaw, making the selection, cut, and matching of each stone even more crucial.
The process of creating the Grand Baguette was made even more difficult due to the unusual geometry of the case –the pentagonal configuration overall, as well as the different shapes and sizes of the surrounds enclosing the sub‐dials, meant that an enormous range of shapes had to be cut and polished (the work is done, astonishingly, by hand as the process of achieving the correct geometry cannot be automated) and for each stone, a blueprint akin to an architect’s plan has to be created to ensure proper geometry and size.
The end result of this application of unparalleled skill and craftsmanship, however, is a sparkling testimony to the power of the diamond to cast its irresistible spell. With a radiance worthy of a dragon’s hoard, the Grand Baguette is resplendent with 360 baguette cut diamonds on the case, 120 on the dials, a and large brilliant cut round central diamond. Each of the five crowns is set with 3.5 carats of baguette cut diamonds as well. The Grand Baguette is both a work of art of unmatched splendor, and a testimony to Jacob & Co.’s mastery of the art of the diamond.
The Grand Baguette Diamond Timepiece shows the time in five cities, with 761 diamonds adorning the case and dial (exclusive of those decorating the five crowns) and is a strictly limited edition of only 6 pieces world‐wide. Price available only upon request to Jacob & Co.
Grand Baguette Diamonds.
Case:
47 mm, hexagonal; polished 18K white gold invisibly set with 360 baguette diamonds (approx. 13.2 carats); five crowns invisibly set with baguette diamonds (approx. 3.5 carats); five sapphire glasses with transparent antireflective treatment; circular satin‐finished with hand engraved case back.
Dial and hands:
Invisibly set with 120 baguette diamonds (approx. 4.8 carats) and one central diamond (approx. 1.25 carats); four bezels invisibly set with 280 baguette diamonds (approx. 8.3 carats); 18k white gold hand‐shaped and polished with blue nickel finish;
Movement:
Swiss quartz, 5 x Ronda caliber 1042. Functions: hours, minutes, five time zones; local time and time in New York, Los Angeles, Tokyo and Paris
Strap and Clasp:
Blue alligator strap, 18K white gold tang buckle set with 44 baguette diamonds
(approx. 2 carats)
Remarks: Water‐resistant to 30 m
Warranty: 2 year
ABOUT JACOB & CO
Jacob & Co., the luxury timepiece and diamond jewelry house, was founded more than 25 years ago in New York City. After years of designing for private clients and building a sterling reputation with leaders in the worlds of entertainment, sports and high finance, the company launched its flagship store in New York City in 2004. Today, the brand has locations globally and is recognized as one of the premier luxury brands of watches and high jewelry.
