Manufacturer: Van Cleef & Arpels Year: Circa 2010 Case No: 131'101 Model Name: Cadenas Material: 18k yellow gold, diamonds and rubies Calibre: Quartz Bracelet/Strap: 18k yellow gold and partially diamond-set Van Cleef & Arpels bracelet, 165 mm. maximum length Clasp/Buckle: 18k yellow gold and diamond-set Van Cleef & Arpels lock Dimensions: 26 mm. width Signed:Case, dial and movement signed Accessories: With Van Cleef & Arpels product literature, fitted presentation box and outer packaging.
Catalogue Essay
Created in 1935, the Cadenas has become one of the most iconic timepieces ever made by Van Cleef & Arpels. This emblematic design was inspired by the Duchess of Windsor and her passion for jewellery.
The present model is lavishly set with pavé-set diamonds and rubies, highlighting the jewelry aspect of the Cadenas watch. While retaining its essential character, the watch is set with a very flexible yellow gold and diamond-set bracelet to accentuate its brilliance. The watch has furthermore been retained in almost unused condition.
When Alfred Van Cleef and Estelle Arpels fell in love, their marriage paved the way for iconic jewelry house Van Cleef & Arpels to become a symbol of unification. With their background in precious stone dealing, the Arpels found their perfect match in the Van Cleefs, a family of expert stonecutters. In 1906, Estelle's brother Charles established the company name with Alfred's help and opened shop in the Place Vendôme in Paris. To this day, this Parisian neighborhood is associated with turn-of-the-century luxury.
The Van Cleef & Arpels aesthetic has always had its finger on the pulse of worldwide trends: For example, the house took inspiration from Tutankhamen upon the Egyptian king's discovery in the 1920s, which spurred a global phenomenon marrying Egyptian Revival and Art Deco motifs. Over the decades, Van Cleef & Arpels has produced intricate watches, earrings and necklaces with a signature elegance that mirrors contemporary tastes.