Platinum and Diamond Necklace-Bracelet Combination, Harry Winston

Composed of graduated clusters of diamonds, set with numerous round diamonds weighing approximately 35.00 carats and numerous pear-shaped diamonds weighing approximately 18.00 carats, length 16 inches, with marks for Jacques Timey, clasps numbered 1, 2, 3 and 4; links numbered 1, 3, 4 and 5 on applied plaques to correspond with non-extant pendants; applied plaque for link number 2 missing; necklace detaches into sections measuring 6½, 3½, 3¼ and 2¾ inches. With signed envelope-pouch.

In very good condition overall. Very flexible, well-made and comfortable to wear. Set with 227 round diamonds and 33 pear-shaped diamonds, approximately G-I color, VS-SI clarity. Signed with marks for Jacques Timey on plaques attached to the male end of each clasp. Fitted with four pendant loops and one retractable pendant loop. Each section fitted with a safety closure.
In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective qualified opinion. Illustrations in the catalogue may not be actual size. Prospective purchasers are reminded that, unless the catalogue description specifically states that a stone is natural, we have assumed that some form of treatment may have been used and that such treatment may not be permanent. Our presale estimates reflect this assumption.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.

Often referred to as the “King of Diamonds,” Harry Winston has been known for handling the majority of the world’s most magnificent diamonds and colored stones. These famous gems are only part of his legacy however, as he also proved to be a true visionary in the field of 20th century jewelry design.

The “Winston” look, as it became known, is characterized by a multitude of round or fancy-shaped diamonds arranged in clusters, sparkling from every angle with very little visible metal distracting from the beauty of the stones. According to legend, Winston took his initial inspiration from a holly wreath hanging from his front door during Christmas in 1944. He challenged his team of designers to come up with a way to mount stones in a similarly three-dimensional fashion, shaping the necklace or bracelet in the same way that the holly leaves shaped the wreath. What evolved were the flexible-wire mountings of platinum and gold that revolutionized jewelry design and allowed formal jewels, even those set with massive gemstones, to be worn more comfortably than ever before. Marvels of craftsmanship, the mountings were engineered to highlight the brilliance and beauty of each individual stone while at the same time allowing for an unprecedented suppleness.

The jewels offered here are quintessential examples of the Harry Winston style.