How Van Cleef & Arpels Is Reading Time With A Spellbinding Spectacle Inspired By Nature

Van Cleef & Arpels Éveil du Cyclamen Automaton: Where Time Meets Nature in a Spellbinding Spectacle.

Automatons have a rich history that dates back centuries. These mechanical devices are designed to mimic human or animal actions, often in a playful or whimsical manner. During the 18th century, automaton clocks were at the height of popularity, gracing the courts of Europe and captivating the imagination of nobility.

When Van Cleef & Arpels opens the doors to wonder, the world of horology transforms into an enchanting spectacle. Their Éveil du Cyclamen automaton, introduced as part of a series of extraordinary objects in 2022, not only reads time but also unfurls a mesmerizing display inspired by nature—a cherished theme at the Maison.

A Delicate Awakening

Imagine an exquisite bouquet of cyclamen, delicate and vibrant, cradling a precious secret within. As the petals of these cyclamen gently open and close in harmonious synchronization, a butterfly of unparalleled beauty gracefully emerges. Adorned with diamonds, emeralds, lapis lazuli, and plique-à-jour enamel, this fluttering creature embodies Van Cleef & Arpels’ mastery of High Jewelry craftsmanship.

Nature’s Palette

The cyclamen flowers, airbrush-lacquered one by one in successive layers, unveil subtle nuances of pink and purple. Remarkably, each bud exhibits identical hues, a testament to the Maison’s unwavering commitment to perfection in every detail. It’s a botanical masterpiece that captures the essence of nature’s artistry.

Stones of Exception

The automaton comes to life on a base comprising two pieces of green aventurine and a bowl of purple jade. These ornamental stones, expertly polished and thoughtfully adorned with inclusions, exemplify Van Cleef & Arpels’ expertise in selecting rare and unusual gems, typically reserved for fine jewelry creations.

The Illuminating Final Flourish

As the pièce de résistance, a flower crafted from rose gold, lacquer, and diamonds gracefully presides over a rotating ring at the automaton’s base, gently illuminating the passage of hours. It’s a luminous touch that not only tells time but also adds a sparkling flourish to this artistic masterpiece.

A Fusion of Time and Artistry

In the Éveil du Cyclamen automaton, Van Cleef & Arpels marries the intricacies of timekeeping with the enchantment of the natural world. With each delicate motion, it transports us to a realm where time is not just a measurement but a captivating spectacle, where horology meets artistry.