Kerbedanz presents a creation that brings together independent haute horlogerie, artistic craftsmanship and a charitable cause. The 65'27'' Tree of Life, developed especially for the Watches for ELA 2026 charity auction, was sold during the event held on November 9 in Geneva, in collaboration with Christie's.

Beyond its exclusive nature, this timepiece represents the brand's commitment to ELA and its work supporting people affected by leukodystrophies and their families.

The Tree of Life Transformed into Watchmaking Art

This unique piece features a 38 mm Grade 5 titanium case and the ultra-thin KRB10 automatic calibre. Its distinctive time display uses a rotating hour disc, accompanied by a minute indication and a diamond hour marker. One of its defining characteristics is the signature alignment, which occurs every 65 minutes and 27 seconds.

To develop its artistic identity, Kerbedanz collaborated with Gezim Meta, an artist specializing in hyperrealism, miniature painting and enameling. He worked on both the rotating hour disc and the systemic oscillating weight, each crafted from titanium with a honeycomb architecture, incorporating compositions inspired by the Tree of Life.

More Than 66 Hours of Artistic Craftsmanship

The decoration of both components required approximately 66 hours of artistic work and firing. The miniature painting on the hour disc took 24 hours, while the Tree of Life composition on the oscillating weight required another 36 hours. An additional six hours of firing helped set and reveal the depth of the colours.

Every detail reflects the patience and precision required to work on such a small scale, where each line and shade contributes to the final result.

A Creation in Support of a Meaningful Cause

For Kerbedanz, haute horlogerie also represents the transmission of knowledge and artisanal skills across generations. In the context of Watches for ELA, this philosophy takes on a special meaning: the Tree of Life symbolizes resilience and the ability to contribute to something greater.

Vahé Vartzbed, CEO of Kerbedanz, expressed his gratitude to the collector, Christie's Geneva, Watches for ELA and Gezim Meta for making the project possible. He also highlighted the importance of supporting ELA's work through initiatives that can help improve the lives of people affected by leukodystrophies.

An Irreplaceable Timepiece

The Kerbedanz 65'27'' Tree of Life combines a 38 mm titanium case, the KRB10 automatic calibre, a sapphire crystal caseback and two miniature paintings created by hand. Its production as a single unique piece (1/1) reinforces its exclusive artistic character.

With this sale, Kerbedanz concludes a project in which mechanics, craftsmanship and solidarity come together in a single creation. The Tree of Life leaves behind a story that extends beyond watchmaking, carrying a message of hope, resilience and transmission.