Founded in 1874 by a young 19-year-old in the village of La Côte-aux-Fées, Piaget was originally nothing but a means for Georges Piaget to earn some extra money as he worked on movements and watches during the winter. After decades of producing watches for other brands, it was not until 1943 that the watchmaker would begin to sign their own watches and develop as the famed watchmaker that they are today. From then on, Piaget began to experiment with ultra-thin watches and push both horological and design boundaries, which eventually led to the brand expanding into jewelry in 1959, perhaps the brand’s best-known avenue today. With their impeccable craftsmanship, audacious style, and dedication to the spectacular, Piaget’s timepieces and jewelry began to coalesce, resulting in timepieces much like the Protocole ref. 5194 that we have here, which became a signature offering from within Piaget’s catalog. Boasting an 18kt yellow gold rectangular case measuring 25mm wide and 28mm tall with a lug-free design and an interesting vertical ‘tapestry’ pattern engraved down its entire front, the Protocole is an iconic piece of Piaget design. However, while the ref. 5194’s case is unique, this example’s jet-black onyx stone dial is what truly sets it apart. A stunning result of Piaget’s incredible work with stone dials, this timepiece likely resulted from Piaget’s Style Selector program where clients could pick from a variety of dials, bracelet options, case finishes, materials, and more for their watch. These stone dial Piaget offerings have become increasingly sought-after, and this onyx dial Protocole ref. 5194 is a perfect reminder of why collectors have flocked to them in recent times.

A great reminder of how their Style Selector program enabled them to create beautiful timepieces that have stood the test of time, this Protocole ref. 9154 showcases how elegant design and incredible craftsmanship can combine to create a beautiful watch that is truly timeless.