In days of old, the jester was no fool. A key member of a ruler's inner circle, his role was considered vital to the smooth running of the royal court, his humorous antics were often seen as the fruit of divine inspiration and his position was one of privilege. He was even required to criticise his master. Calling the latest Backes & Strauss design the 'Royal Jester' seemed, therefore, entirely appropriate.
The diamond at the centre of the 40mm watch weighs an impressive 1.01 carats. Officially certified as being of the finest D-colour, Internally Flawless and with 'excellent' symmetry, it further benefits from the signature Backes & Strauss Ideal Cut. Gaze deep inside the diamond with a special viewer, and the light will refract in the famous 'hearts and arrows' pattern which is the coveted sign of a stone which has been cut to perfect symmetry.
Around the outside of the case, there are a further 80 diamonds, with the dial being masterfully invisibly set with two rows of baguettes weighing 2.40 carats. A further 40 baguettes can be seen between the discreet, crimson hour and minute markers, which are mounted on crystal discs to create the impression that they are simply floating, unconnected to any mechanism, in the great tradition of the mystery timekeeper. In reality, they are driven by a superb mechanical movement with 36 hours of power reserve.