Anyone who stepped into Blancpain’s Metiers d’Art exhibition at the Landmark Mandarin Oriental might have wondered if they’d entered an art gallery instead. Given the impeccable artistry of the stunning timepieces on display, the mistake was understandable.
Guests were treated to a fantastic display of one-of-the-kind watches such as the Villeret Ganesh and cherry blossom-themed 8 Jours Manuelle. The individual dial of each Metiers d’Art creation showcased one of four incredible techniques: enamel painting, detailed engraving, damasquinage and shakudo.
Opening night attendees were invited to learn more about each unique style and watch live demonstrations of dial painting and engraving in an exclusive and intimate setting. The latter is also part of Blancpain’s new bespoke service which allows high-end watch collectors to personalise and influence their own Metiers d’Art design.
Blancpain’s Vice President and Head of Sales Marc Junod described the unique collection and bespoke service as a dual-pronged approach to introduce the 282-year-old watch brand to a new audience, while also building a more interactive relationship with high-end watch collectors.
“It’s one thing to come up with a watch and launch it at the Baselworld watch fair,” explained Junod, “it’s much more interesting to sit down with someone from the get go and come up with an idea and a unique creation. It becomes a personal journey.”
Text: Tenzing Thondup
Images: Gigi Ip, Blancpain