In a star-studded gathering that took place in Atlantic City on October 2nd, all eyes were on a remarkable charity event dedicated to Reform Alliance, a nonprofit organization founded in 2019 with the mission of reforming probation and parole laws and combating wrongful imprisonment. The event, organized by Jay-Z, one of the founding partners of Reform Alliance, witnessed a jaw-dropping moment as the hip-hop mogul auctioned off his personal Jacob & Co Caviar Tourbillon World Timer watch, fetching an astonishing $1.5 million.
For those unacquainted with this timepiece, it is far from subtle. This extravagant watch, housed in an 18-karat white gold case and measuring 47.5mm, is a dazzling display of opulence. It boasts a staggering 294 baguette-cut diamonds meticulously set into the lugs, bezel, crown, and midcase, along with an additional 204 diamonds adorning the dial, amounting to an impressive 30.5 carats in total. Powered by a hand-wound movement, it offers an array of impressive complications, including a tourbillon, a mechanism designed to counteract the effects of gravity on the watch movement’s escapement, and three world time displays.
Jacob & Co, the brainchild of jeweler Jacob Arabo founded in New York City in 1986, has played a significant role in popularizing iced-out watches and jewelry, particularly in the hip-hop world. The brand has been embraced by celebrities like Diddy, Jay-Z, Drake, 50 Cent, and more. In 2002, their quartz-powered Five Time Zone watch set the stage for a collection of timepieces featuring multiple time zones, including the coveted Caviar Tourbillon World Timer. Crafted for A-list stars like Jay-Z, this watch is the epitome of luxury, tailored for those with a globe-trotting lifestyle and ample financial resources.
Beyond the intricate movement, the artistry required to create the watch’s mesmerizing dial is truly exceptional. A closer look reveals that there is no visible gold between the baguette diamonds, resulting in a shimmering effect that gives the impression of a seamless, reflective surface. The fortunate buyer who secured this masterpiece for $1.5 million can rest assured that they have acquired a timepiece that excels in both the world of horology and high-end jewelry, even though Jacob & Co. watches often elicit a love-it-or-hate-it response in the world of collectors.
However, the true highlight of the evening was not the watch itself. The charity auction, attended by a constellation of celebrities including Matthew McConaughey, Lil Kim, and Meek Mill, successfully raised an astounding $24 million for Reform Alliance. This remarkable feat underscores the immense impact of the event, emphasizing its noble cause in reshaping legal systems and ensuring justice for all.
