French high jewellery and timepiece house Van Cleef & Arpels is offering a new interpretation of a timepiece with a story to celebrate Salon International de la Haute Horlogerie 2012. In 1949, Pierre Arpels designed a watch of rare quality for himself that at first was only available to Arpels’ social circle. The timepiece that he gave his name to only became available to the general public in 1971. Its pure lines, although more contemporary, pay tribute to the original model. Elegant and extra-thin so as to slip smoothly under the shirt cuff, the Pierre Arpels is easily recognisable for the two straight bars that frame its dial, with single attaching pins at the 12 and six o’clock positions. The Pierre Arpels is a mechanical manual winding watch and comes in various versions, including diamonds, in white or pink gold. The maison has recruited actor Chen Kun and photographer Chen Man to help with its advertising campaign. Kun, pictured above, wears the Pierre Arpels 38mm timepiece set in pink gold with diamonds, priced at HK$250,000. vancleefarpels.com