Large-scale watch models for Van Cleef & Arpels

Sector:Luxury watchmaking

Period: 2010-2024

Client:Van Cleef & Arpels

Context

Van Cleef & Arpels develops high-end watches with exceptional mechanical complications. For their client presentations, international trade shows, and internal training, they neededucational visual modelsthat allow understanding of the mechanical workings without opening the watch.

My role: transform 2D technical plans into functional 3D modelsenlarged 15 to 20 timesthe actual size.

Problem

Technical challenge:

• Extreme enlargement (15-20X): all mechanical play, tolerances, and thicknesses must be recalculated
• Suitable materials: replace precious metals with plexiglass, aluminum, stainless steel while maintaining aesthetics
• Functionality: the model mustrotate, move, demonstratethe mechanism like the real watch
• Visual accuracy: respect the brand's aesthetic DNA despite the change in scale and materials

Conceptual challenge:

• Identifywhich elements to highlight: each model has a specific educational objective (to show a particular complication, a drive system, a chiming mechanism)
• Finding the balance betweentechnical fidelityandvisual readability

Solution

Process:

1. Plan analysis: Study of the 2D technical drawings provided by Van Cleef & Arpels
2. Selection of elements: Discussion with the client to identify what should be highlighted
3. 3D design: Complete redesign in CAD with adaptation of fits, thicknesses, tolerances for the 15-20X scale
4. Material selection: Clear/colored plexiglass for the plates, anodized aluminum for the gears, stainless steel for the shafts

5. Multi-technical manufacturing :

   • Laser cutting (plexiglass, complex shapes)
   • CNC milling (aluminum, precise parts)
   • Turning (shafts, screws, round elements)
   • Hand assembly (final adjustments)
6. Functional tests: Movement validation, adjustments if necessary
7. Finishing: Polishing, anodizing, final assembly on presentation base

Particularities:

• Each model isunique: tailored to the specific mechanism of the watch
• Tight deadlines: often 4-8 weeks between receipt of plans and delivery
• Maximum quality requirement: prestigious client, luxury standard

Result

Deliverables:

• Large-scale functional models (diameter 30-40 cm depending on the model)
• Mounted on a display base with integrated LED lighting system
• Dismantlable for maintenance if necessary
• Technical documentation (exploded views, maintenance manual)

Impact:

• Used in Van Cleef & Arpels international boutiques
• Presentations at watch fairs (SIHH Geneva, Baselworld)
• Internal training for sales teams
• Sales tools to explain technical value to end customers

Number of models created:15+ different models over 14 years of collaboration

Photos/Visuals

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Tags:projects, watchmaking, models, prototyping, Van Cleef & Arpels, precision manufacturing, CAD, plexi, 2010-2024