News Visitors can discover the DNA of Piaget from 1874 to the present day through more than a hundred pieces and historical documents at the all-new Piaget Time Gallery. Located just above the Piaget store, at 40 rue du Rhône in Geneva, it opened its doors on 17 June this year. Both a welcoming port of call and a meeting place, this new 180 m2 exhibition space, accessible from the store, adds a new dimension to the brand, which sees it as a way of strengthening ties with its customer base.
Designed by architect Gérard Barrau, who elaborated the concept of Piaget stores throughout the world, the decor of this new venue takes its cue from the ground floor. The elegant lines of the furnishings and materials - wood, aluminium and stone – are enhanced by bay windows that bathe the premises in natural light, as well as a magnificent view over the Rhône.
While all works on show have a special significance in Piaget’s rich history, some have left their stamp on the world of watchmaking and jewellery. Such is the case in particular of watches equipped with the 9P calibre and the famous 12P, which earned the manufacturer a place in the Guinness Book of Records in 1957 as designer of the world’s flattest automatic movement. Mention must also go to the first timepieces to feature dials produced from hard stone such as onyx, turquoise, coral or malachite. The jewel watches on display highlight the incredible expertise in the setting of precious stones of artists employed in Piaget workshops. Through this initiation into the life and works of Piaget, the exhibition also reveals the history of the first jewels designed by the firm. Firstly pieces intended to compliment the range of timepieces, but also independent collections including the famous Possession line.
The Piaget Time Gallery will house the brand’s historic exhibition until the end of September. It will then travel to Hong Kong where a second gallery will be created. This cultural meeting place will then offer different insights into the firm and its rich heritage.
June 27, 2008
