Originally introduced in 1965 by legendary designer Jean Schlumberger, the ‘Bird on a Rock’ brooch was inspired by a yellow cockatoo he encountered while vacationing in the Caribbean. The whimsical design has since become an enduring symbol of the brand’s artistry and creativity.
The new Bird on a Rock Legacy watches are the latest evolution of this iconic motif, following a series of reimagined brooches and a striking reinterpretation of the Tiffany Diamond during the 2023 reopening of the brand’s New York flagship, The Landmark. This marks the first time the design has been transformed into timepieces.
Each of the three Bird on a Rock Legacy watch models features a gemstone ‘rock’ — morganite, aquamarine or tanzanite — topped with a diamond-set bird, all framed within an 18k white gold case. The gemstones are visible through a carefully aligned loupe-style window on the dial, set against a mother-of-pearl backdrop engraved with floral patterns inspired by Schlumberger’s home in Guadeloupe.
The stones themselves are significant: a 1.45-carat oval morganite, a 2.1-carat emerald-cut aquamarine, and a 2.72-carat cushion-cut tanzanite. Each piece captures the essence of the original design while introducing a functional, timekeeping dimension.
The debut of these watches comes at a time when the ‘Bird on a Rock’ has gained renewed cultural relevance, particularly in men’s fashion. Once viewed as a traditional brooch, it has evolved into a gender-neutral statement of luxury and individuality, frequently seen adorning celebrities on the red carpet.
With this launch, Tiffany & Co. not only celebrates the timeless appeal of Schlumberger’s design but also underscores its commitment to evolving classic motifs for a contemporary audience — now extending the bird’s flight from brooches to the wrist.
