Van Cleef & Arpels’ Poetic Complications® collection celebrates the art of storytelling through watchmaking. The timepiece presented here is a piece unique, inspired by the Colibri Box. The word "colibri" means hummingbird in both Spanish and Portuguese. In 1938, Queen Nazli of Egypt, mother of King Farouk and Princess Fawzia, personally commissioned Van Cleef & Arpels to create the exquisite bespoke box. It showcases Maison’s patented Mystery Set technique, where gems are set in a way that conceals the metal, allowing the gemstones to shine with uninterrupted brilliance. The Colibri Box is now part of the Maison’s private collection.

The dial of the present timepiece draws directly from the Colibri Box’s design. Several goldsmithing techniques are used to bring it to life. One of these is known as en tremblant, where the artisan chisels the dial radius by radius while intentionally allowing the hand to tremble. This technique enhances the depth and luminosity of the Chinese lacquer, which is applied in successive coats. The lacquer’s full richness is revealed through a motif engraved on the backing plate. Meanwhile, master craftsmen sculpt gold to form the intricate details. Each leaf vein is carefully chiselled, the hummingbird’s wings are adorned with sapphires, and the flower petals are shaped to highlight the brilliance of the rubies.

On the reverse side, the sapphire caseback reveals a captivating mother-of-pearl movement, highlighted by a diamond-set tourbillon bridge. This present example is offered in excellent condition and accompanied by its complete set of accessories, presenting a rare opportunity for collectors who appreciate the harmony of complication and exquisite gem-setting.