A LADY'S SAPPHIRE, DIAMOND AND LAPIS LAZULI COCKTAIL WRISTWATCH, BY...

A LADY'S SAPPHIRE, DIAMOND AND LAPIS LAZULI COCKTAIL WRISTWATCH, BY BUECHE-GIROD, CIRCA 1965 The 17-jewels manual wind movement, with cushion-shaped lapis lazuli dial with circular-cut sapphire and brilliant-cut diamond bezel, to a fitted textured gold strap, in 18K gold, dial and movement signed, maker's mark on clasp, diamonds approximately 1.20ct, case width 2.7cm, length 15.7cm Bueche Girod was established in 1947 by Vital Bueche and his wife, Edwige Girod. As master watchmaker, Vital's focus was dominated by the design and craft of timepieces. His skill led to the company holding several patents, including the moon-phase and plain calendar. Unfortunately, Vital's expertise was recognised by larger companies, such as Cartier and Bulova, and he ceased his work with Bueche Girod and took on separate employment. Drawing on his legacy, Bueche Girod continued to produce watches, albeit in greatly reduced volumes. Capitalising on Girod's jewellery background, the company became known for their decorative and elaborately designed ladies' watches. The scarcity in production, coupled with the ultimate closure of the company, resulted in Bueche Girod watches becoming sought-after collector items.