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Randolph, NJ—A new group of high-jewelry watches with avian inspirations make time take flight, combining multiple modes of artistic diligence with enamel work, gem setting, sculpt­ing, and engraving. They are works of art that perfectly reflect nature, giving women the sense of gratification and pride that only a true piece of wearable art can bring.

Clockwise, from middle left:  Cartier Tourbillon watch ($221,000) features a kingfisher in flight on the dark-purple and Tahitian mother-of-pearl dial, bedecked with 210 brilliant-cut diamonds for the wings and 80 cognac-colored diamonds for the body (and an emerald eye). It is finished with blue, orange, yellow, and white enamel. The watch houses the Geneva Seal-certified 9458 MC Caliber with flying tourbillon created in-house by Cartier. Just 60 pieces will be made.

Van Cleef & Arpels elegant swan watch, top, ($270,000) is part of the From the Earth to the Moon Constellation collection. It is one of four time­pieces that are sold as a complete set with an Extraordinary Cabinet, created in a limited edition of 22 sets ($510,000 per set). This watch is crafted in 18k white gold with enamel work, gold sculpting, and diamonds.

 LeVian’s Into the Wild Peacock watch, bottom right, ($6,995) features a diamond bezel and a raised diamond dial, set with five carats of diamonds, tsavorites, and blue sapphires to form the peacock in all its feathered glory. The watch is finished with a genuine stingray strap. In a limited edition of 500 pieces.

This article by Roberta Naas appears in similar format the September issue of Ocean Drive Magazine, and also on her blog, http://www.atimelyperspective.com/blog. Naas is a renowned journalist in the field of luxury watches and horology.