New York-based jeweler Jade Trau has launched a new series of customized and restored vintage Rolex Cellini watches, just in time for Mother’s Day. The collection, which follows the sell-out success of her first release, features ten unique pieces, many adorned with diamonds—a nod to Trau’s background as a diamond buyer before launching her eponymous jewelry line.
Each watch dates back to the 1970s and is powered by a caliber 1600 movement. The timepieces are paired with vibrant exotic straps in shades of red, pink, and green, adding a modern twist to their classic design.
Designer Explores New Creative Directions
Having refined her process with the initial collection, Trau took the opportunity to experiment with different styles this time around. “I wanted to play with various concepts,” she told Robb Report. “We included a larger men’s-sized dial, which has been a hit in the studio, as well as two white gold models that I’d personally love to keep.”
The restoration and customization process is painstaking, taking over eight months from sourcing to final servicing. The watches feature a mix of cushion, oval, and round cases, most finished with a satin texture. “Achieving that look requires multiple steps and different brushes, depending on the piece’s size and shape,” Trau explained.
A Jewelry Designer’s Foray into Horology
While Trau admits she is not a watch expert, she sees this collection as a creative extension of her jewelry expertise. “I admire watches but approach this as a jeweler,” she said. Her personal collection includes everything from highly sought-after modern pieces to her grandmother’s vintage Jaeger-LeCoultre, which she hopes to fit with a malachite dial.
Though she didn’t keep any watches from this release for herself, Trau plans to source more vintage timepieces during an upcoming trip to Japan.
Limited Availability and Pricing
The watches are now available on Jade Trau’s website, priced between 12,900. With several pieces already sold, the remaining stock is expected to move quickly—mirroring the rapid sell-out of her previous collection. Shoppers looking for a distinctive Mother’s Day gift may need to act fast.
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