A collection of four one-of-a-kind watches marks Dolce & Gabbana’s entry into the world of Alta Orologeria (which literally translates as high watchmaking in Italian) for men. Building on Dolce & Gabbana’s signature aesthetic of theatrical opulence, these pieces are a meeting point between timekeeping and high jewellery. They were presented as part of the brand’s Alte Artigianalità, a twice-yearly showcase of its mastery of couture and high jewellery.
The four timepieces are an homage to the music of Italian composer Giuseppe Verdi. Following the different themes of Verdi's operas, each piece has been named for one of the composer's masterpieces: Otello, Don Carlos, Nabucco and, finally, this piece, inspired by Macbeth. Designed to harmonise music, art and timekeeping, the whole project took an estimated two years to bring to fruition, with the Macbeth watch taking master goldsmiths and engravers eight months to create by hand.
Made from solid 18K gold, with a 46-millimetre case, the dial, bezel and bracelet have all been hand-engraved, drawing on the renowned skills of Italian goldsmiths. The dial is marked with a stylised leaf motif, which has been painstakingly drawn by hand. The crown, bezel, case and bracelet have been milled to create a textured matte effect, which, against the engraved face, highlights the tourbillon as the only area polished to a high shine.
Hand-engraved Roman and Arabic numerals decorate the case, which according to the brand is an attempt to highlight the relativity of time, while "Dolce Gabbana Alto Orologeria" has been embossed onto the dial. The bezel has been hand-etched with five-second demarcations, while a sapphire glass back allows viewing of the bridges.
Sporting a Dolce & Gabbana 23.01 caliber, with a frequency of 21,600 vibrations per hour, the Macbeth also has a chronograph – with both hour and minute indicators – operating on a single-button system, rather than the more commonly used two, in a nod to the timepieces of yore. Additionally, it comprises a column wheel, favoured by collectors for its intricate workings, and has a power reserve of 100 hours, marked by the indicator between 8 and 9 o’clock. A tourbillon sits at 6 o’clock, with the initials DG on the gold bridge.
Each watch is totally unique, comes with a certificate of authenticity and a numbered caliber, and is presented in a restored antique box. Clients can request elements of customisation, as required. The Macbeth costs Dh1,307, 834.
Read this and more stories in Luxury magazine, out with The National on Thursday, April 13.
smaisey@thenational.ae
SPECS
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Types of policy
Term life insurance: this is the cheapest and most-popular form of life cover. You pay a regular monthly premium for a pre-agreed period, typically anything between five and 25 years, or possibly longer. If you die within that time, the policy will pay a cash lump sum, which is typically tax-free even outside the UAE. If you die after the policy ends, you do not get anything in return. There is no cash-in value at any time. Once you stop paying premiums, cover stops.
Whole-of-life insurance: as its name suggests, this type of life cover is designed to run for the rest of your life. You pay regular monthly premiums and in return, get a guaranteed cash lump sum whenever you die. As a result, premiums are typically much higher than one term life insurance, although they do not usually increase with age. In some cases, you have to keep up premiums for as long as you live, although there may be a cut-off period, say, at age 80 but it can go as high as 95. There are penalties if you don’t last the course and you may get a lot less than you paid in.
Critical illness cover: this pays a cash lump sum if you suffer from a serious illness such as cancer, heart disease or stroke. Some policies cover as many as 50 different illnesses, although cancer triggers by far the most claims. The payout is designed to cover major financial responsibilities such as a mortgage or children’s education fees if you fall ill and are unable to work. It is cost effective to combine it with life insurance, with the policy paying out once if you either die or suffer a serious illness.
Income protection: this pays a replacement income if you fall ill and are unable to continue working. On the best policies, this will continue either until you recover, or reach retirement age. Unlike critical illness cover, policies will typically pay out for stress and musculoskeletal problems such as back trouble.
'Fantastic Beasts: The Secrets of Dumbledore'
Rating: 3/5
Directed by: David Yates
Starring: Mads Mikkelson, Eddie Redmayne, Ezra Miller, Jude Law
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How to protect yourself when air quality drops
Install an air filter in your home.
Close your windows and turn on the AC.
Shower or bath after being outside.
Wear a face mask.
Stay indoors when conditions are particularly poor.
If driving, turn your engine off when stationary.
Company%20Profile
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Company%20Profile
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Eyasses squad
Charlie Preston (captain) – goal shooter/ goalkeeper (Dubai College)
Arushi Holt (vice-captain) – wing defence / centre (Jumeriah English Speaking School)
Olivia Petricola (vice-captain) – centre / wing attack (Dubai English Speaking College)
Isabel Affley – goalkeeper / goal defence (Dubai English Speaking College)
Jemma Eley – goal attack / wing attack (Dubai College)
Alana Farrell-Morton – centre / wing / defence / wing attack (Nord Anglia International School)
Molly Fuller – goal attack / wing attack (Dubai College)
Caitlin Gowdy – goal defence / wing defence (Dubai English Speaking College)
Noorulain Hussain – goal defence / wing defence (Dubai College)
Zahra Hussain-Gillani – goal defence / goalkeeper (British School Al Khubairat)
Claire Janssen – goal shooter / goal attack (Jumeriah English Speaking School)
Eliza Petricola – wing attack / centre (Dubai English Speaking College)
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