World-renowned luxury watchmakers frequently unveil limited-edition dials that are nothing short of breathtaking. With substantial resources at their disposal, these prestigious brands engage master artisans who pour hundreds of hours into creating intricate, handcrafted dials that leave a lasting impression. I enjoy keeping up with the brands that produce these high-end dials and often take inspiration from their joie de vivre spirit.
If you follow my work, you know that last year I did a commissioned watch on the Grand Canyon. She wanted to base the design on a photo of the Grand Canyon that looks out toward the confluence of the Colorado river with the Little Colorado, where the Hopi believe that they emerged from a sipapu into the world - a very sacred area. From a dial-making perspective, it felt like a miracle that the shell could be transformed into an iridescent, clay-like color, reminiscent of the rich, earthy tones found in the Southwest.
I'd never seen anything similar to my creation until a friend sent me this posting for a Patek Philippe Calatrava Marquetry Grand Canyon Automatic Watch on eBay. Patek Philippe only made ten of the canyon dial watches and they were released in 2017. It's over 200 pieces of wood marquetry. Extraordinary dial art in a white gold case with an asking price of $154,950! In case you aren't familiar with Patek Philippe, they are one of the oldest watch manufacturers in the world. They started in Geneva, Switzerland in 1839. They are on the high end of luxury watchmaking with a company slogan of, "You never actually own a Patek Philippe. You only look after it for the next generation."
Time and time again (no pun intended), I’m struck by how my shell marquetry and inlay dials stand out with a distinctiveness that is truly one-of-a-kind. As far as I know, I’m the only artisan in the country—possibly even the world—using shell to create this type of dial art. If you're looking for a unique watch that combines flair, style, color, and meaning for a special person or occasion, feel free to reach out. I’d be thrilled to bring your vision to life!
