Watches & Jewelry: Gifts to Make Her (and Him) Smile
Gifts bring joy. Ideally, to both the giver and the recipient. Valentine's Day is a particularly popular occasion for this. We have found the perfect presents in the world of watches and jewelry. By the way: Their symbolism remains meaningful long after February 14…
By Marianne Eschbach
The saying «Small gifts maintain friendships» originates from the late German writer Paul Mommertz, but in reality, it is as old as humanity itself. Archaeological findings from prehistoric times confirm this. Gifts have always been a sign of recognition, appreciation, and belonging.
However, unlike the Beatles' song, Lucy probably had to settle for a special stone rather than a sparkling diamond. The biggest gift-giving tradition in our culture—Christmas—often linked to the Three Wise Men, actually predates Christianity.
The Magic of Giving and Receiving
That does not diminish the magic of giving and receiving—quite the opposite. The expansion of this ritual to various occasions throughout the year, such as birthdays, souvenirs for those back home, guest and host gifts, goodie bags, or spontaneous gestures, is one of life’s joys. And now, once again, Valentine’s Day is upon us.
Valentine’s Day gifts became fashionable in Europe after World War II, introduced by stationed American soldiers. However, this tradition is neither purely American commerce nor an invention of florists but instead has roots in ancient Rome.
Who Was Valentine?
Valentine of Terni was reportedly a Christian martyr in the 3rd century who was executed during the Christian persecutions. Legend has it that Valentine, whose death is dated to February 14, 269, blessed couples and gifted them flowers. He was canonized approximately a hundred years after his death.
In 496 AD, Pope Gelasius I declared February 14 as Valentine’s Day. Since then, the martyr has been regarded as the patron saint of lovers. However, there is no historical evidence of his existence, which is why the Church removed his feast day from the Roman calendar in 1969.
Billets d'Amour
The tradition of exchanging gifts and sending small, often anonymous, love notes on February 14 spread mainly in England from the 15th century onward. From there, it made its way to America through emigrants.
And because this story—dramatic, yearning, and bittersweet as it is—is associated with a joyful gesture, it has endured to this day. Marketing and storytelling play their part in ensuring it continues.
The Color Red
Red is one of the oldest colors used by humans. As early as prehistoric times, red ochre pigment was used in cave paintings. The color of fire and blood is associated with power, strength, and danger. But red is also the color of the beating heart, symbolizing life, attraction, emotion, and seduction.
The word «red» comes from the Indo-European root describing the color of copper and gold. This brings us to precious items that are often adorned in red for Valentine’s Day.
«Be my Valentine» is the heartfelt message of February 14 in the Anglo-American world. Whether you choose to express your affection through a person, a piece of jewelry, or both is up to you.
1 The Pioneer’s Timepiece
In the early 1930s, Betty Fiechter became the first woman to lead a watchmaking house. In her honor, Blancpain named its iconic women's watch «Ladybird,» a timepiece that traces its lineage back to the first automatic ladies' watch from 1930. For 25 years, Blancpain has released a Valentine’s edition of this model. Betty Fiechter firmly believed that women needed «something beautiful» to be «properly dressed.»
Blancpain «Ladybird Colors Saint-Valentin 2025» (34.9 mm), white gold with diamonds, automatic caliber, moon phase display, mother-of-pearl dial, alligator leather strap, 33,700 francs. (Image: Courtesy)
2 Drops of Joy
Bold, sculptural design and masterful craftsmanship define the Geneva-based jewelry brand founded in 2017 by Giorgio Bulgari, a scion of the famous jeweler dynasty. His striking creations are inspired by Italian industrial design and the 1930s' «Streamline» movement.
Giorgio B «Goccia» earrings, red enamel with rose gold cabochons, CHF 10,800. (Image: zVg)
3 Royal Elegance
Watch pioneer Abraham-Louis Breguet designed the egg-shaped timepiece around 1810 for Caroline Murat, Napoleon Bonaparte's youngest sister and later Queen of Naples. It is considered one of the first wristwatches.
Breguet «Reine de Naples Saint-Valentin 9915» (36.5 mm x 28.45 mm), white gold, diamonds, rubies, sapphires, automatic movement with platinum rotor, mother-of-pearl dial, alligator leather strap, 48,000 francs. (Image: Courtesy)
4 Miami South Beach Feeling
A few weeks before its launch, this turquoise-dial watch caused a stir when brand ambassador David Beckham wore it on social media. Securing one is a challenge, just like last year's pink edition. Lucky is the man who receives this as a Valentine's gift.
Tudor «Black Bay Chrono Flamingo Blue» (41 mm), stainless steel, COSC-certified automatic chronograph, flamingo-blue dial with black subdials, 5,450 francs. (Image: Courtesy)
5 Locked in Love
This pendant was inspired by an 1883 golden padlock brooch. The historical design reflects the brand’s 1837 credo of protecting what matters—both in its design heritage and in the bonds of friendship.
Tiffany & Co. «Lock» pendant, rose gold with pink sapphires, 6,050 francs. (Image: Courtesy)
