Gucci 3900L Watch

Features

Why we love it

Description & history

A Gucci 3900L in stainless steel · rectangular case with an anthracite black sunburst guilloché dial · sapphire crystal · Swiss quartz movement · Tom Ford era · made in November 2001 · adjustable 16–16.5 cm bracelet.

Appointed Gucci's creative director in 1994, when the house was in the midst of a crisis, Tom Ford achieved in just a few seasons one of the most spectacular creative turnarounds in contemporary fashion history. Assertive sensuality, refined minimalism, metallic shine, jewellery and accessories conceived as sculptural pieces — an entire Y2K universe took shape under his direction, and Gucci watches from this period bear his instantly recognisable signature. The 3900L perfectly embodies this spirit: a tiny, almost jewellery-like rectangular case mounted on an openwork steel bracelet that serves as much as a timepiece as a signature curb chain. The sunburst guilloché dial, in anthracite black that absorbs and reflects light depending on the angle, adds the interplay of matte and glossy materials that characterises Gucci's vocabulary under Tom Ford. The sapphire crystal resists everyday scratches; the Swiss quartz movement ensures precision; the solid steel guarantees longevity. This example, made in November 2001, comes with its original box and Gucci authenticity card — a complete collector's set, particularly rare to find today in this configuration. A cult Y2K accessory, equally suited to a suit at the office or layered with other gold or silver bracelets in a jewellery-stacking style.