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From Royal Inspiration to Runway Revolution: The Timeless Saga of Vivienne Westwood’s Orb Watch Pendant

December 10, 2023

The fashion world witnesses the revival of a timeless piece as Vivienne Westwood brings back the Orb Watch Pendant for Autumn/Winter 2023/24. A symbol that merges tradition with futuristic rebellion, the Orb has encapsulated the essence of Westwood's fashion narrative since its inception.

Inspired by royalty, reimagined for the runway: The sovereign’s orb transformed into a fashion staple.

The Historical Significance of the Orb

Conceived in the mid-1980s, the Orb logo was Vivienne Westwood's self-proclamation as the queen of fashion. Inspired by the Sovereign's Orb, a piece of coronation regalia, it was reimagined to represent the blend of historical grandeur with a punk twist. This logo evolved to become more than just a part of Westwood’s branding—it became a symbol of timekeeping elegance in its 2009 spring-summer collection debut as a pendant watch, encrusted with Swarovski crystals, embodying Westwood's philosophy of taking tradition into the future.

The Resurgence of the Orb Watch Pendant

The Orb Watch Pendant is relaunched, channeling its original glory with a three-dimensional design, a hidden watch face, and available in multiple finishes. Its return is a homage to the past while catering to the modern fashion enthusiast's desire for vintage charm and functional beauty.

The Orb's Cultural Resonance

The Orb signifies a journey from traditional elegance to rebellious chic. Originally, pearls represented aristocratic sophistication, but under Westwood's vision, they transformed into a symbol of defiance against the establishment. The Orb, especially the Three Row Pearl Bas Relief Choker, has been a coveted item since the Autumn-Winter 1987/88 collection, resonating with generations and becoming a must-have piece for both punk enthusiasts and the fashion elite.

The Orb Watch Pendant's return is not just a nod to Vivienne Westwood's storied past but also a testament to the enduring appeal of accessories that carry a narrative of rebellion, timelessness, and luxury. It's a piece that transcends time, much like the fashion house itself, and continues to captivate with its blend of history, craftsmanship, and subculture edge.

The resurgence of the Orb Watch Pendant encapsulates Vivienne Westwood's unique ability to merge the past with the present and the future, creating pieces that are both timely and timeless. Whether you're a long-time admirer or a new enthusiast, this piece invites you to carry a bit of fashion history with you.