The camellia was designer Gabrielle “Coco” Chanel’s favorite flower, seen here on the Mademoiselle Privé Camélia Lesage. Photos courtesy Chanel.

Two black dial variations boast striking yellow gold details.

BY KAREN AANONSEN

Needles and thread aren’t normally associated with fine watchmaking. But normal is something Chanel will never be accused of being. The design house has teamed with legendary embroiderer Lesage on a quartet of Mademoiselle Privé Camélia watches. Resplendent with camellias fashioned from gold and silk thread, diamonds, sequins, pearls, spangles, and glass beads, the 37.5mm timepieces feature off-center hour and minute hands to make room for their charming hand embroidery. Cases set with 60 brilliant-cut diamonds and satin straps add further dazzle. Created in 1924, Lesage has also provided work for haute couture notables such as Balmain, Balenciaga, Dior, and Yves Saint Laurent.

—January 2016