Time And The Jeweler's Art

By Brian Scott Lipton

National Jewelry Institute at The Forbes Galleries

For centuries, the concept of luxury meant owning the best of everything. Hundreds of years ago, kings of the world's most prosperous nations demanded that their countries' skilled artisans and craftspeople create the most luxurious robes, jeweled objects and saddles imaginable for everyone in their court. During the last century, growing affluence expanded the realm of luxury to satisfy the building demand for quality.

In more recent years, discerning consumers have turned to the world's most prestigious brands for the luxurious accessories that will enhance their daily wardrobes. Among them are instantly recognizable items such as the Hermè s tie, Louis Vuitton wallet, Christian Dior handbag, Chanel scarf and Tiffany & Co. money clip.

Today, the intersection of luxury, elegance and wearability has a new forefront: the world of timepieces, as evidenced by Time and the Jeweler's Art, a new exhibition created by the National Jewelry Institute, which will be on display at The Forbes Galleries at 62 Fifth Avenue from April 24, 2009, through June 27, 2009.

The Essential Accessory

Just a few decades ago, watches — like diamonds — were forever. One timepiece was purchased to be worn day and night, winter and summer, year after year, decade after decade. But today, watches have not only become just as important a fashion accessory as a tie, handbag or scarf; they are also considered an essential piece of jewelry and are changed just as often as rings, bracelets and earrings. Indeed, both men and women routinely wear and collect an array of timepieces from a variety of brands and in a wide range of metals, finishes and even colors. At the same time, the world's top designers and fashion houses are continually expanding their offerings to meet this new demand.

According to Hans-Kristian Hoejsgaard, President and CEO, Timex Group BV, "The current economic environment requires luxury brands, and business in general, to respond differently to changing consumer behavior and trends in 2009. Ethics, sustainability — and corporate social responsibility in general — and craftsmanship will become more important factors to justify and amplify the intrinsic value of luxury brands."

Without question, the gold watch — long the ultimate symbol of elegance and reliability — has never lost its place in the pantheon. But today's watches take the gold standard to a new level, adding dimension and depth to the beloved metal. They might incorporate white gold, platinum, titanium or even stainless steel. A designer might also add a touch of glitz through a face full of dazzling diamonds or a bevy of brightly colored precious stones.

The Right Timepiece for the Right Moment

Just as not all clothes are designed to make the transition from day to night, what one puts on one's wrist at 8:00 in the morning can be totally different from what adorns that part of the body at 8:00 in the evening. As with any good accessory, one's watch can complement or even match one's outfit. Daytime can call for a sporty watch with a pastel-blue leather strap or a colored face, while nighttime calls for a more classic and refined timepiece that will perfectly play off a couture gown or custom-made suit.

A man's watch can combine ultimate practicality with ultimate luxury. A business magnate who travels frequently will benefit from a timepiece that simultaneously displays multiple time zones, while the sports-loving male may also require a timepiece that can withstand being submerged in the ocean, precisely detail one's marathon-running time to the split second, or endure a vigorous game of basketball or squash without damage or loss of accuracy.

Yet, just as one's watch wardrobe should feature a variety of timepieces, it should always include one of extreme durability — one that can eventually be passed down from generation to generation as a family heirloom and as a symbol of commitment to timelessness. For true luxury, like true family values, never goes out of style.