Jaeger-LeCoultre (Instagram), the Watchmaker of Watchmakers, has unveiled its latest collaboration under the Made of Makers programme—an exclusive art installation created in partnership with renowned Emirati designer Khalid Shafar. Titled ‘Crescent to Crescent’, the installation combines horology with contemporary design, drawing inspiration from the lunar cycle of Ramadan. The partnership highlights the deep connection between time, tradition, and craftsmanship, reinforcing Jaeger-LeCoultre’s dedication to blending classical techniques with modern artistry.
The Made of Makers programme is Jaeger-LeCoultre’s initiative that brings together artists and craftsmen from various disciplines, pushing the boundaries of traditional arts by integrating them with the brand’s expertise in horology. The collaboration with Khalid Shafar introduces a unique regional perspective to the programme, offering a fusion of Emirati heritage and contemporary aesthetics.
Shafar, known for his narrative-driven design approach, has created a thought-provoking installation that reflects the passage of time through celestial movements. Inspired by the moon’s cycle, Crescent to Crescent serves as a tribute to Ramadan—a time of reflection, spirituality, and cultural significance.
Spanning six meters in width and three meters in height, Crescent to Crescent is a striking visual representation of the lunar phases. The piece features 29 intricately designed moons, symbolizing each day of the lunar cycle. On one side, a stunning colour gradient mirrors the moon’s daily evolution, while the other side offers an immersive play of light, showcasing the shifting phases in real-time. The installation integrates subtle design elements that pay homage to Jaeger-LeCoultre’s craftsmanship, including delicate engravings reminiscent of the Maison’s signature guilloché decorative technique.
Speaking about the project, Khalid Shafar said, “The moon. This celestial body is a powerful force, influencing tides, guiding natural cycles and inclining countless aspects of life on earth. For centuries, the sight of the new crescent moon has heralded the beginning of Ramadan. When Jaeger-LeCoultre invited me to create an art installation in honour of this sacred time, I sought to capture the profound rhythm of time itself, drawing inspiration from the lunar cycle. I immersed myself in La Grande Maison’s enduring fascination with celestial phenomena – a passion nurtured by the enchanting night sky of La Vallée de Joux and brought to life in watchmaking masterpieces.”
Ramadan is deeply intertwined with the concept of time—dictating the rhythms of fasting, prayer, and reflection. This reverence aligns seamlessly with Jaeger-LeCoultre’s mastery of watchmaking, where celestial bodies have long inspired horological innovation. Since its founding in 1833, the Swiss Maison has incorporated astronomical cycles into its timepieces, emphasizing the connection between the cosmos and the measurement of time.
Jaeger-LeCoultre CEO Jérôme Lambert spoke on how his company’s vision aligns with that of Shafar, saying, “At La Grande Maison, we celebrate the artistry of time—not just through our watches but through creative collaborations that explore its deeper significance. Khalid Shafar’s installation beautifully embodies this philosophy, drawing on the celestial rhythms that have inspired watchmaking for centuries.”
Khalid Shafar has played a pioneering role in shaping contemporary Emirati design. His work, characterized by clean lines, rich textures, and an avant-garde sensibility, bridges the past and present. Through Crescent to Crescent, he continues his mission of storytelling through design, ensuring that Emirati craftsmanship finds a place on the global stage.
The installation, unveiled on February 28 at the Dubai Mall Grand Atrium, will remain in place throughout the month of Ramadan. Its presence in a public space invites art and design enthusiasts to engage with time in a new, immersive way—one that blends heritage, innovation, and spirituality.
Jaeger-LeCoultre’s partnership with Khalid Shafar exemplifies the brand’s commitment to artistic expression beyond watchmaking. By merging horology with contemporary design, Crescent to Crescent stands as a testament to the power of time—its passage, its beauty, and its cultural significance. Through this installation, Jaeger-LeCoultre and Khalid Shafar offer a fresh perspective on how time can be celebrated, honoured, and reimagined.
Visit the portal to reserve your spot and enjoy a unique experience, where you can explore the installation, indulge in celestial-inspired mocktails at the boutique, and discover the Stellar Odyssey travelling collection.
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