We Heart This Watch

Working here at W, it’s not uncommon to silently covet co-workers’ shoes, coats, dresses and earrings. But a few weeks ago, when I bumped into Market Director Treena Lombardo in, of all places, the ladies’ room, I practically put her in a half nelson so I could get a better look at the ginormous yellow-faced gold watch she was wearing. (This occurred post-hand washing, btw). Asking about the timepiece, I steadied myself for the letdown, ready to hear “Dad’s Rolex” or “Baume and Mercier” or some other watchmaker leagues beyond my price range. Instead, she raised her eyebrows and informed me, “Michael Kors. $250. It’s great, right?”

Needless to say, I shot straight over to the designer’s Madison Avenue boutique and bought myself the same oversized Gold Chrono. (Launched last spring, it’s intended for either men or women.).With its one-inch wide band and its nearly two-inch face radius, it makes my men’s Bulgari watch look downright dainty. I’m happy to report that despite its massive girth, it’s surprisingly comfortable. And the compliments! I’ve been averaging about three each time I wear it, including from the very discerning Leonard Lauder. When I met him for lunch last week, he reached over to my wrist and said, “Now, tell me about this watch, Jane Larkworthy.” I was pleased to inform him that it was by a designer whose fragrances are under the Estée Lauder umbrella.

Photos by Alexandra Marvar.