“Bangle Watch Makes a Stylish Comeback”
The bangle watch is making a fashionable resurgence, captivating both collectors and casual wearers alike. Last fall saw the launch of three remarkable collections: Bulgari’s Serpenti Aeterna, Chanel’s Première Galon, and Vacheron Constantin’s Grand Lady Kalla. These pieces reinterpret classic designs, integrating timepieces into a structured bracelet known as a bangle.
Bangle Watches: A Historical Revival
Oliver R. Müller, founder of LuxeConsult, highlights an essential fact—this revival traces back to the origins of wristwatches, which were initially crafted for women. Currently, the growth of women’s watches presents an appealing market for many brands, offering both high-profit margins and endless design possibilities.
The Appeal of Stacking and Duality
Scarlett Baker, managing editor at Heist-Out magazine, notes that the popularity of bangle watches correlates with the rise of sizable bangle bracelets. Over the last five years, various jewelry brands have introduced new bangle designs:
- Tiffany & Company – Knot
- Dior – Bois de Rose
- Louis Vuitton – Le Damier
- Bulgari – Serpenti Viper
Fashion houses are also embracing the trend. Gucci has recently revived its bangle with interchangeable bezels, dubbed the Play. The versatility of bangle watches makes them ideal for layering, allowing wearers to combine them with other jewelry pieces effectively.
Luxury Brands Reimagining Bangle Watches
Luxury jewelry brands have spearheaded the return of bangle watches. Piaget’s creative director, Stéphanie Sivrière, emphasizes the unique presence a bangle watch brings, suggesting minimal additional accessories to maintain its impact. Cartier has enhanced its classic Baignoire model by adapting it into a rigid bangle format, merging elements of jewelry with watchmaking.
In 2019, Van Cleef & Arpels expanded its Perlée Toi et Moi secret watches collection, which cleverly hides the watch dial while showcasing luxurious design. Rainer Bernard, head of watch research and development at the house, underscores the longstanding integration of rigid bracelets into their designs, first showcased in 1935.
Highlighting Gemstones and Iconic Designs
Vacheron Constantin’s new Grand Lady Kalla collection showcases exquisite gemstones like ruby, sapphire, and emerald. Christian Selmoni, style and heritage director, connects this latest launch to the brand’s rich history in jewelry craftsmanship, referencing the striking 1979 Kallista diamond piece.
Bulgari has also made waves with the Serpenti Aeterna, featuring a chic open bangle design with a stylized snake head. Jonathan Birnbaum, managing director of watches at Bulgari, states that recognizable icons significantly distinguish brands in the competitive market.
Continued Innovation
Cartier’s reimagined Baignoire design for 2023, coupled with a rigid bracelet, emphasized traditional craftsmanship. This approach resonated with consumers, driving impressive sales. Pierre Rainero, Cartier’s director of image, describes the interplay of the case and bracelet, leading into their 2024 release, the Reflection—a unique open bangle watch merging geometry and elegance.
Finally, Chanel’s Première Galon has been positioned as more of a stylish accessory than merely a timepiece. Arnaud Chastaingt, the director of Chanel’s Watchmaking Creation Studio, describes this watch as jewelry that serves the dual purpose of both telling time and adorning the wearer.
As the bangle watch trend continues to gain traction, it promises to be a notable addition to the world of luxury accessories, appealing to those who appreciate both style and functionality.
