The dial of the Piaget Altiplano Scrimshaw timepiece is made from a 40,000 year old Mammoth’s tusk


It’s not often that one gets to see creative talent that conceives not just works of art but instant heirlooms that stand the test of time and fashion, however Piaget’s collaboration with Richard Maier has resulted in just that. The master engraver has aided Piaget in the creation of their Altiplano Scrimshaw watches that feature dials made of 40,000 year old fossilized mammoth ivory engraved with maps of the Eastern hemisphere. The laborious and complex Scrimshaw technique of engraving (believed to originate from Inuit communities) allows for the creation of different textures and color gradients during the inking process. Maier used burin engraving techniques on the continent outlines and replicated color shading using needles of varying diameters to create tiny holes in the ivory. There is no room for error in this elaborate process and once there is a hold in the ivory disc, it is rendered useless. Each dial requires over 65 hours of labor and it really shows in the intricate detailing and flawless design.

The Altiplano Scrimshaw is available in rose gold and white gold 38mm cases. The dial of the rose gold version features tones of brown on the map while the dial of the white gold version is a classic black and white palette. As the ivory used is preserved and not poached, the watch is free from ethical concerns as well. Though an intricate design like this might make a watch appear ostentatious, Piaget tempers artistry in design with austerity in color making these thoroughly wearable. The watch movement is an in-house 400P ultra-thin caliber. Priced at approximately $55,600, these watches will be limited edition with about 40 pieces produced in each rose and white gold; that said this number is subject to change before the limited edition is made official

Also read -  Piaget Exceptional Piece watch worth $1.72 million marks the Year of Dragon

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[Via – Hodinkee]

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Vivien is a features writer with over eight years of expertise, specializing in celebrities and fashion. Since 2013, she has contributed to Luxurylaunches, delving deep into celebrity lifestyles and high-end fashion trends. Her pieces capture the essence of luxury, from coveted couture to intriguing collaborations. Beyond her journalistic pursuits, Vivien aspires for sun-soaked moments in St. Tropez, unique Nike Air Max sneakers, and Cartier's timeless Baignoire watch. With a discerning eye and a knack for capturing the opulence of the celebrity world, she remains a trusted voice in the realms of glamour and style.