Beyond Timekeeping: Accessories By Watchmakers
4 min read
At their core, watchmakers are artists, thinkers and craftsmen. Though they chart the course of timekeeping, reimagining the past and shaping the future, they also influence fashion and design at large. In keeping with that, here’s our lowdown on some watch brands, from Omega to Cartier, whose catalogue goes further than legendary timepieces.
Omega
No doubt, Omega is among the most sought-after watchmakers today. However, its portfolio goes beyond timekeeping. Be it sunglasses, rings, bracelets or cufflinks—the Omega style is prevalent across accessories. In its collaboration with Italian eyewear company Marcolin, the maison has produced a range of sunglasses. In 2021, they introduced 23 new pairs, and every item bears inspirations from Omega’s most iconic watches. For instance, the women’s eyewear collection is inspired by the Omega Constellation series and boasts similar “claws” and a circular bezel. In 2018, the watchmaker released slim and radiant Constellation bangles in 18-karat red gold and white gold.
Cartier
The Cartier Crash and Tank timepieces might be among the most iconic watches today; but, the watchmaker goes beyond them, producing legendary jewellery rooted in history. The maison boasts necklaces worn by the likes of Barbara Hutton (1934), the Duchess of Windsor (1947), the Maharaja of Patiala and Beyoncé. They are known for tiaras donned by the royalty, including the Queen of the Belgians, Elisabeth in 1910 and for bracelets worn by renowned actresses, such as Gloria Swanson in 1930. In fact, in 2022, Cartier has introduced a new high jewelry collection dubbed Beautés du Monde, comprising opulent necklaces and rings.
Fossil
From sunglasses and handbags to belts and bracelets—Fossil offers numerous accessories beyond watches. In fact, the watchmaker has been known for its collaboration with the lifestyle brand Smiley. In February 2022, Fossil released an exclusive Smiley collector’s edition of backpacks to celebrate the brand’s 50th anniversary. Moreover, in May 2022, the partners launched a capsule collection, comprising handbags, jewellery and much more. You could choose from totes and cross-body bags to vibrant gold-tone daisy motif accessories.
Montblanc
Arguably, a Montblanc pen oozes a similar, if not the same, amount of prestige as does the Maison's watch collection. The brand has been synonymous with luxury writing instruments since it was founded in 1906. In fact, even in 2022, their pens reign supreme, with the brand organising an exhibition, dubbed Montblanc Hous, to apprise people of their history. Moreover, their range of belts, wallets and cufflinks is also quite popular. Besides, their sartorial collection comprises top-notch business accessories like briefcases, laptop bags and backpacks, crafted from the finest materials.
Bvlgari
The watch brand is synonymous with trendsetting watches (Read: Octo Finissimo Ultra, the world’s thinnest watch yet), but it offers much more. Be it handbags, sunglasses or jewellery, Bulgari amalgamates its DNA of high jewellery and watchmaking in each accessory. The maison offers an array of handbags, from the timeless B.zero1 to the contemporary Serpenti. Similarly, their range of Bvlgari sunglasses for men and women features retro-stylish designs. Recently, the maison launched a new campaign featuring actresses Zendaya and Anne Hathaway in their exquisite jewellery.
Hublot
The Swiss watchmaker Hublot is famed for its avant-garde and often outrageous timepieces. From the Big Bang to the Spirit of Big Bang, the brand has been known for its audacious designs. However, their range of accessories is equally impressive. The maison offers a plethora of sunglasses for both men and women. Furthermore, they have also collaborated with renowned brands like Berluti and Italia Independent to produce a range of luxury watches and accessories. The former collaboration resulted in the world’s first leather smartwatch, while the latter yielded a range of trendsetting watches and sunglasses.
Rest assured, these watchmakers excel at their craft of timekeeping while also catering to their other interests. So, the next time you’re in the market for a new accessory, consider one from your favourite watch brand. After all, they’re more versatile than you think!
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