The curtains part to unveil a glittering Gerald Genta timepiece in tribute to the Place de l'Etoile also known as Place Charles de Gaulle in Paris. An area surrounding the Arc de Triomphe (an arc which honors those who fought for France, particularly during the Napoleonic Wars. Inscribed on the inside and on the top of the arc are all of the names of generals and wars fought. Beneath the arc is the tomb of the unknown soldier from World War I) From the Place de l'Etoile twelve avenues fan out. Gerald Genta has reproduced a slice of these avenues displaying the prominent Avenue des Champs-Elysees as its focal point.
Gerald Genta has adopted a distinct three dimensional perspective of distance for its dial as Gerald Genta's jeweled Avenues become progressively smaller like a traveler driving down the avenues. Gerald Genta could have chosen a static birds eye view of the avenues, but this stance brings the entire scene to life. Gerald Genta has utilized the jumping hour time display which is placed at the 11 o'clock position to further enhance the feeling of depth. The retrograde minutes are indicated by a single black minute hand which is vivid and easy to read against the alternating background. The retrograde minutes are inscribed on the bezel in an 180 degree arc in lettering similar to lettering found on signs displaying street names. The diamond avenues consisting of 199 gems and its purple enameled motif extend from the dial and onto the bezel elongating the entire perspective.Gerald Genta has chosen a deep royal purple for its color contrast.
The entire case is crafted in warm rose gold and measures 39mm in diameter. The cobbled stones of streets embedded with history are reminiscent in the unique Aquilino texture of the watches strap. Aquilino is a water snake leather with a curious skin like paving stones.
This watch is indeed royalty and fit to honor Paris and the Place de l'Etoile.
