The three Premier Shinde models are inspired by archival records of Mr. Shinde’s jewelry creations. They reinterpret two of his necklace designs – including the famous “Star of the Desert” – and a tiara, all masterpieces and an important part of the history of the House.
The essence of the original jewelry creations is captured and portrayed on the dial of each of these timepieces, all featuring a 36 mm case. The symbolic motif is created using a special gold engraving technique. Technical constraints created a challenge and called for close cooperation between the engraving artisan and the designer. The dial is entirely relief-engraved. A slender 24-carat thread is used, daintily resembling a cannetille – a small filigree-type element composed of spirally twisted gold thread. Measuring a mere four-tenths of a millimeter, its capabilities and resulting design are truly extraordinary.
The dials of the Premier Shinde models are made of Grand Feu enamel, a supremely demanding material. The enamel is fired at temperatures between 800 and 900°C, a temperature so extreme that it can jeopardize the work done up until that point. The studied firing operation reveals the beauty and depth of the colors. Harry Winston chose to pair Grand Feu enamel with a touch of gold, creating a multi-layered effect.
The eye immediately recognizes the jewelry motif and marquise-cut stones – from one to eight – depending on the model. Driven by a mechanical automatic movement, the timepiece is equipped with a silicon balance-spring. More than just a jewelry model, at its heart, the Premier Shinde tells the treasured story of the brand.
