While the brand had thus far flirted with the mysteries of the universe by offering timepieces celebrating unusual pairings between meteorite fragments and extra-terrestrial olivines, Baselworld 2014 saw Badollet propel the Stellaire into a whole new dimension: that of Haute Joaillerie watches.
“No one expected Badollet to show up with a full-set model”, admits CEO Philippe Dubois. “But as we keep our finger firmly on the market pulse and our strength lies in personalization, some of my clients asked me to introduce Haute Joaillerie creations.” Such customers must have been delighted to see the Stellaire Exceptionnelle, since Badollet has definitely not done things by half. The white gold case is set with 861 diamonds totalling 9.58 carats, while the dial is paved with 643 diamonds representing 2.30 carats. This impressive performance is well worth admiring at close quarters.
“You will note that even the inside of the cut-out lugs is gem-set”, explains Philippe Dubois. “The crown is also highlighted by a small row of diamonds! The result might have been a somewhat showy piece, but that’s far from the case. It definitely sparkles, but the craftsmanship is imbued with taste and elegance.”
While for the time being there is only one such Stellaire Exceptionnelle, featuring a meteorite-based movement baseplate and upper carriage bridges with olivines, different variations with sapphire or emerald-set hour-markers should be introduced in due course.
Trois montres Badollet lauréates du Concours de l'Observatoire en 1872.
Another key model unveiled by Badollet is a Minute Repeater christened Observatoire 1872 in tribute to the Geneva Observatory Competition, of which the first edition held that year had rewarded three Badollet watches for their chronometric precision. Its classic 44mm case, inspired by historical pocket-watches and full-set with 1,249 brilliant-cut diamonds, houses a movement packed with contemporary technology and equipped with two major horological complications: the tourbillon and the minute repeater. Meanwhile, further examples of the personalisation principle cherished by the brand, which continues to offer fresh interpretations of its Ivresse models, include the Crystalball case with new chronograph versions, as well as the famous Bamboo skeleton working inspired by Asian bamboo scaffolding and once again revealing a degree of expertise worthy of the finest watchmaking artisans.
