Cover Created in 1968, the Alhambra® collection has become an icon of luck, emblematic of Van Cleef & Arpels'
Created in 1968, the Alhambra® collection has become an icon of luck, emblematic of Van Cleef & Arpels'
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Combining the Maison’s signature four-leaf clover motif with a concealed watch dial, Van Cleef & Arpels gives its iconic Alhambra design a jewellery-led approach to timekeeping
There is more than one way to wear a watch, and Van Cleef & Arpels makes a rather lovely case for taking it off the wrist. At first glance, its Alhambra Secret Pendant Watch looks like a familiar piece of fine jewellery, complete with the Maison's signature four-leaf clover motif. Look a little closer, however, and a watch dial is cleverly concealed beneath the pendant, waiting to be revealed with a gentle twist.
The creation brings together two important parts of the Maison's history: its iconic Alhambra collection and its longstanding tradition of secret watches. First introduced in 1968, the Alhambra motif takes inspiration from the four-leaf clover, a symbol often associated with luck. Its distinctive silhouette, framed by delicate golden beads, has since become one of Van Cleef & Arpels' most recognisable designs, appearing across its jewellery and watchmaking creations in an array of colours and materials.
Above The Alhambra secret pendant watch
The Alhambra secret pendant watch
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For this particular creation, the Alhambra motif is crafted in 18K rose gold and adorned with diamonds and grey mother-of-pearl. The contrast between the warm gold and the material's natural iridescence gives the pendant its distinctive finish. Measuring 28mm, it hangs from a 90cm gold chain, making it an alternative to the traditional wristwatch.
The concealed dial is revealed by gently rotating the clover cover, a detail that keeps the timepiece discreet when not in use. The pendant also showcases traditional jewellery-making techniques, from its beaded gold border to the openwork structure that allows light to pass through when the cover is lifted. In diamond-set variations, the Maison employs its snow-setting technique, placing diamonds closely together to create a continuous surface of brilliance.
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Above The Alhambra motif is crafted in 18K rose gold and adorned with diamonds and grey mother-of-pearl
Above A closer look at Alhambra Secret Pendant Watch
The Alhambra motif is crafted in 18K rose gold and adorned with diamonds and grey mother-of-pearl
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See also: Watches and Wonders 2026: the best jewellery watches at the fair
With a Swiss quartz movement at its heart, the Alhambra Secret Pendant Watch is a reminder that timekeeping can take many forms, including one that looks just as at home in a jewellery collection.
Aliya Qarina is the Junior Style Writer at Tatler Malaysia with an interest in fashion and beauty. Her writing often focuses on contemporary style, beauty culture and emerging trends.
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