JEDDAH: Some of the world’s most valuable items and gems took center stage at Jeddah’s International Luxury Week that ended on Thursday.
One of them was a one-piece watch originally made for Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman by young Saudi designer Renad Al-Amoudi.
The stunning item grabbed all the attention at the event to put its designer in the spotlight.
Al-Amoudi said: “This is the best-ever design I have done and I am very proud of it because this watch is the turning point in my career.”
Al-Amoudi’s interest in jewelry dates back to her childhood. She later pursued it professionally until she became the founder of Renad Al-Amoudi Jewellery.
The undated photo shows a watch designed by jewelry designer Renad Al-Amoudi displayed at International Luxury Week in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. (Photo courtesy: Renad Al-Amoudi)
She said: “It all started with a deep-rooted passion that ignited during my childhood. At the age of 16 I took on a school project which became my first foray into design. I crafted jewelry pieces that drew inspiration from the captivating stories we shared as youngsters about the Prophet’s biography, Islamic civilization, history, and culture.”
The founder and designer of Renad Al-Amoudi pursued higher education at a distinguished university in the UK, specializing in product design and its contemporary methodologies. She further enriched her knowledge after graduation through an immersive training program in Geneva that spanned six months.
She told Arab News: “First of all, I am so honored and feel very proud to see the timepiece now adorns the crown prince’s wrist. It is indeed the biggest achievement of my life.”
She revealed that the design of the watch was inspired by the leadership characteristics of Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman.
She added: “The watch is a testament to the meticulous nine-month manufacturing journey, complemented by a year dedicated to various accompanying elements.
“The watch itself was meticulously crafted in Switzerland, under the watchful guidance of Prince Mansour bin Nasser, the former Saudi ambassador to Switzerland.
“The book design was entrusted to the same talented individual responsible for creating books for Her Majesty Queen of England.
“As for the exquisite box, crafted from the finest and most luxurious leather, its design came from the renowned artisans of France. All the remarkable individuals involved in this endeavor showcased unrivaled expertise in their respective fields.”
The specifications of the watch are equally impressive.
Al-Amoudi said: “It is crafted from lightweight titanium and it maintains a substantial feel due to the intricate tourbillon movement housed within.
“Its design draws inspiration from the architectural and Islamic influences prevalent in our Kingdom, evoking a sense of grandeur. The dial showcases intricate Islamic decorations, replacing traditional numerals with the name of the crown prince, accompanied by his esteemed qualities as a leader.
“Encased within graceful arches, reminiscent of mosque entrances, each quality is beautifully highlighted.”
She added: “It is also symbolizing the Saudi flag. A vibrant malachite stone adorns the timepiece, while the face features sleek black onyx.
“The captivating tourbillon movement is accentuated by the presence of an exquisite emerald at its center. The strap, meticulously crafted from crocodile leather and camel leather, exudes luxury and sophistication.
“Behind the watch, geometric patterns add a touch of artistic flair. The watch bears the unique initials ‘MBS’ signifying its exceptional nature as a one-of-a-kind piece.”
As a Saudi designer, Al-Amoudi takes great pride in the inspiration for her designs.
She said: “The nature surrounding me serves as my wellspring of creativity. My design philosophy revolves around showcasing the overall beauty of our Kingdom and unveiling an unseen facet to the world.
“I am driven to dispel the misconception that we are solely consumers, and instead reveal our true identity as producers, innovators, and beneficiaries of unprecedented support.
“For me, as a Saudi girl or designer, I like to mix my culture and civilization with the other things that I see outside Saudi Arabia, but I always stick to my roots.”
