Winning combinations: Which jewellery to pair with your favourite Van Cleef & Arpels watches

30 March 2023
By Fashion Quarterly

Jewels that tell the time? Say no more. A how-to guide on styling Van Cleef & Arpels’ most coveted watch styles.

Practical, stylish and iconic; a good watch is so much more than just a quality timekeeper. For luxury French jewellery house Van Cleef & Arpels they also serve as the perfect complement to other opulent adornments. Those familiar with the Maison will recognise its signature Alhambra symbol, a four-leaf clover that was first released by the brand in the 1960s. Synonymous with good luck and great fortune, this symbol has since become one of the brand’s most globally coveted styles. 

In celebration of Van Cleef & Arpels’ annual participation in Watches and Wonders in Geneva, we are looking at the best ways to curate a timeless fine-jewellery collection using the brand’s Alhambra watch styles. Because the only thing better than jewels is jewels that tell the time! 

Read on to discover our winning combinations.

Alhambra watch

An obvious choice for the minimalist shopper who is also looking for a pop of colour on the wrist, the Alhambra watch comes in an assortment of different material combinations and band colours to suit all tastes. FQ’s personal favourite? The baby pink bracelet band with 18k white-gold, diamond and Mother-of-pearl is an exquisite pairing with any of the Maison’s diamond Alhambra pieces. For an understated approach, consider wearing this style with the Sweet Alhambra ear studs and pendant in 18k white-gold and diamond.

Sweet Alhambra watch

Delicate and discreet, the 18k rose gold Sweet Alhambra bracelet watch blends seamlessly into the wrist without looking like a watch. Featuring a trio of precious materials, including Mother-of-pearl and diamond, this classic style flawlessly complements the 18k rose gold Sweet Alhambra pendant and ear studs. 

Alhambra secret pendant watch

A deviation from the traditional wrist watch, Van Cleef’s Alhambra secret pendant watches give the appearance of a classic necklace while concealing an elegant watch face under their exterior. While available in multiple material combinations, our favourite variation features a vibrant Carnelian stone set amongst 18k rose gold, diamond and Mother-of-pearl. For an elevated look, this style pairs perfectly with the Perleé couleurs bracelet and Perlée couleurs Between the Finger ring.

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