Reinterpreting the design of its legendary feminine collection, Reine de Naples, Swiss watchmaker Breguet has launched a new mint green variation, the Reine de Naples 8918. The very first version of this iconic timepiece was created at the behest of Queen Caroline Murat of Naples — better known as Caroline Bonaparte, sister of Napoleon Bonaparte — who wanted a timepiece she could wear on her wrist rather than around her neck, as was the fashion in the early 19th century.
Little did she know that the creation, lovingly crafted by Abraham-Louis Breguet himself, would become the world’s first wristwatch when complete in 1812. It seems only fitting that a woman with a passion for horology and a collection of 30 timepieces should make such a significant contribution to the world of watchmaking.
Serving as an ode to her and other heroines who helped redefine the position of women in society, this elegant watch breaks new ground for the Reine de Naples collection. Following pink, grey and white editions, the famously slender, oblong-shaped Reine de Naples 8918 embraces a palette of soft mint green, a colour symbolic of hope.
Composed of white mother-of-pearl, the dial is studded with 121 diamonds surrounded by a discreet black minutes track and punctuated with blue Breguet open-tipped hands. The brand’s instantly recognisable Arabic numerals are layered with two shades of green, offering a two-dimensional appearance, while the number six is replaced with a pear-shaped diamond, a tribute to Breguet’s early work.
Water resistant for up to 30 metres, the case is assembled with 18-carat white gold and is adorned with 117 diamonds while the crown is topped with a briolette-cut diamond. On the reverse side, a sapphire-crystal back is stamped with the Côtes de Genève decoration and the timepiece’s weight. And finally, wrapping around wrists is an alligator leather strap fastened by a 28-diamond folding clasp. Follow in the footsteps of historical figures with this trendsetting timepiece, which honours the role of wonderful women while keeping the Reine de Naples collection at the forefront of feminine horology.