Piaget

During the vibrant era of the 1960s and 1970s, Piaget's distinctive flair shone through in their intricate use of precious stones and bracelet designs. Valentin and Gérald Piaget, the third generation of family members to run the company, acquired three Geneva workshops in the late 1960s dedicated to metalwork and gem setting. The most important of these was Ponit Gennari, headed by Michel Grantcola, the master chaîniste (chain maker), who created some of the most extraordinary cuff and bracelet watches for the brand. Piaget’s in-house ultra-thin caliber 9P, measuring only 2mm deep and 20.8mm in diameter, provided a unique canvas for Grantcola’s creativity to shine through, and these rare and beautiful watches have become some of the most sought-after mid-century creations.

The present Montre Manchette example is a striking testament to this style, showcasing an intricate yellow gold openwork bracelet adorned with lapis lazuli cabochons and a vibrant oval lapis dial. Only a limited production of 15 pieces were made between 1970 and 1971, each featuring various ornamental stones such as coral, malachite, turquoise, tiger eye, and lapis lazuli. The current watch offers a rare opportunity to acquire a truly unique creation from the esteemed brand and is prominently featured in the book "Piaget: Watchmakers and Jewellers Since 1874" by Florence Müller, curator at the Musée des Arts de la Mode et du Textile in Paris.