226 Gübelin Unique, Attractive and Very Elegant, Yellow Gold and Abalone Shell, composed of a Bracelet Wristwatch, Ring and Bracelet, Designed by Gilbert Albert

Estimate: €20,000 –⁠ 40,000

Sold (Premium)€31,200

Model: Bracelet Watch, Ring and Bracelet
Case Material: Yellow Gold and Abalone Shell
Bracelet Material: Yellow Gold and Abalone Shell
Year: 1960s
Movement: Manual
Case N°: 216653
Dimensions: 33 mm Full Length 180 mm, 30 × 28 mm, 220 mm
Signed: Dial, Case and Movement

Gorgeous pieces from the modernism period, this incredible set has been created in Switzerland by the genius of Gilbert Albert for the house of Gübelin. Gilbert Albert is beloved for his novel and daring designs that completely departed from the quotidian during the 1950s and 1960s. This very set composed of two bracelet and a ring was crafted with organic maritime elements from the sea and solid yellow gold of 18 karat, with heavily textured patterns imitating the reefs and coral formations from the bottom of the sea. Thanks to the use of vivid blue-green abalone pearl and cultivated white pearl (for the bracelet), the whole set is incredibly light and elegant when dressed. The first bracelet is composed by 6 elaborated free-form links attached together by oval links and suited, with a fold over clasp with a hinged figure 8 for extra security. Each link is embellished with round carvings of natural Philippine abalone shell. Retaking the same motif and style, the ring perfectly fits someone’s fingers with its embracing form lighten by the MOP. The second bracelet is slightly different from the others presenting a layout that clearly recalls the coralline structure in all their lightness, with the central Abalone dial with baton hands and gold Gübelin signature. The bold yet simple designs of Albert’s cases are in many ways revolutionary and unconventional, but are still considered as cutting-edge today as they were 60 years ago.