Jaeger-LeCoultre (JLC) has collaborated with renowned Emirati artist Khalid Shafar on a sensational new artwork. Titled ‘Crescent to Crescent,’ it celebrates “the passage of time.”
“Inspired by the sacred rhythms of Ramadan, this unique collaboration blends celestial observations with fine craftsmanship, reflecting the deep connection between watchmaking and the passage of time.”
“During the month of Ramadan, tracking the precise moments of sunrise and sunset is essential, as they dictate the daily rhythm of fasting and prayer. This reverence for time aligns seamlessly with Jaeger-LeCoultre’s rich watchmaking heritage, where the measurement of time has always been intrinsically linked to the movements of celestial bodies. Since the Maison’s founding in 1833, the moon, the sun, and the stars have inspired its watchmakers, reflecting the fundamental role of astronomical cycles in the evolution of horology.”
JLC, based in the Vallée de Joux in Switzerland, is known as The Watchmaker of Watchmakers. JLC’s collaboration with Khalid Shafar is part of the brand’s Made of Makers programme.
“The Made of Makers programme draws a parallel between the worlds of horology and art, fostering collaborations with artists, designers, and craftsmen from disciplines outside watchmaking, who share the Maison’s values of creativity, expertise, and precision. The programme challenges the perception of classical arts as static or bound to the past, instead emphasising their continuous reinvention and honouring them as a leading source of creativity today.”
“Just as today’s classics were once seen as radical at their inception, the Made of Makers programme explores how traditional forms and techniques can be reinvented through new materials and media, offering a fresh perspective on the dialogue between past and present. Like the watchmakers of La Grande Maison, these artists respect tradition as a foundation for creativity, while pushing boundaries and exploring new horizons, highlighting how both watchmaking and classical arts express human creativity, reflect the culture of an era and trigger emotions.”
Khalid Shafar
“Born in the United Arab Emirates, Khalid Shafar is a pioneering Emirati artist and designer known for his unique approach to furniture and object design. While he initially pursued a career in business, spending nearly seven years in marketing and communications, his passion for design eventually led him to change direction. In 2005, he fully embraced this calling, undertaking formal studies in Fine Arts with a specialisation in Interior Design.”
“In 2011, Khalid Shafar established his own design studio in Dubai, followed by a dedicated showcase space in 2012. His work is characterised by a seamless fusion of cultural heritage and contemporary aesthetics. He places strong emphasis on storytelling through design, believing that every object carries a narrative that resonates with its audience. His creations often feature clean lines, rich textures, and fine materials, combining an avant-garde-inspired aesthetic with a modern sensibility.”
‘Crescent to Crescent’
“’Crescent To Crescent’ is an evocative art installation, spanning six metres in width and three metres in height, embodying the passage of time through the evolution of the moon. Featuring 29 intricately designed moons representing each day of the lunar cycle, the installation highlights the passage of time throughout the month. Subtle design details honour the Maison’s craftsmanship, expressed through delicate engravings that mirror the guilloché decorative technique mastered in the Manufacture’s Métiers Rares atelier.”
“The installation offers two unique viewing experiences – one side showcases a stunning colour gradient, reflecting the moon’s daily evolution across the month of Ramadan, while the other immerses viewers in a dynamic play of light, illuminating each moon as they move through the space.”
“The moon. This celestial body is a powerful force, influencing tides, guiding natural cycles, and inclining countless aspects of life on earth. For centuries, the sight of the new crescent moon has heralded the beginning of Ramadan,” says Khalid Shafar.”
Our Thoughts
Image: JLC’s Duometre Quantieme Lunaire, as seen on Khalid Shafar’s wrist. It was launched during Watches and Wonders Geneva 2024.
JLC has a heritage and horological prowess that is second to none. Its family of watches have a global appeal, such as the iconic Reverso, Polaris, Rendez-Vous, Master Ultra-Thin, Master Control, Duometre, and Atmos Clock collections.
As a global brand, JLC must cater to local sensibilities. The collaboration with Khalid Shafar resulting in the ‘Crescent to Crescent,’ highlights JLC’s respect for the Middle East region and local culture.
Additional Details
‘Crescent to Crescent’ was unveiled on February 28 at the Dubai Mall Grand Atrium. It will remain there for the duration of the holy month of Ramadan, “before travelling to select locations across the city engaging the art, design, and creative communities.”
JLC’s Dubai flagship boutique is located at the Dubai Mall.
JLC has collaborated with other renowned Emirati artists, such as with Abdalla Almulla on artworks such as Chronoforms and 30 Sunsets.
