In a breathtaking fusion of horology, art, and cultural heritage, Jaeger-LeCoultre unveils its latest collaboration with Emirati designer Khalid Shafar under its prestigious Made of Makers programme. This partnership, which celebrates the passage of time through celestial movements, has resulted in an evocative art installation, “Crescent to Crescent,” inspired by the lunar cycle of Ramadan.
For nearly two centuries, Jaeger-LeCoultre has drawn inspiration from celestial bodies, reflecting the profound relationship between time measurement and astronomy. The Maison’s expertise in moon-phase complications and astronomical timepieces finds a new artistic expression through this collaboration. Khalid Shafar, a visionary in Emirati contemporary design, translates this horological heritage into a sculptural masterpiece that embodies the rhythm of the moon.
Unveiled at The Dubai Mall Grand Atrium, the six-metre-wide installation mirrors the 29-day lunar cycle of Ramadan, with meticulously crafted moons that evolve in form and illumination, echoing the guilloché engraving techniques of Jaeger-LeCoultre. One side of the installation reflects the subtle colour transitions of the moon, while the other engages visitors in a mesmerizing play of light and shadow, symbolizing the passage of time.
“The moon has guided natural cycles and human rituals for centuries,” says Khalid Shafar. “With ‘Crescent to Crescent,’ I wanted to create an immersive experience that captures the essence of time as both a scientific measure and a spiritual journey.”
The Made of Makers programme extends Jaeger-LeCoultre’s creative dialogue beyond watchmaking, collaborating with world-class artists who share the dedication to precision, artistry, and heritage. Previous editions have seen partnerships with talents from gastronomy, music, and digital art, but this collaboration brings a distinct Middle Eastern perspective, reinforcing the connection between luxury, tradition, and contemporary design.
Jaeger-LeCoultre’s CEO Jérôme Lambert highlights the significance of this project:
“At La Grande Maison, we celebrate time not only through our timepieces but through artistic expressions that reveal its deeper meaning. Khalid Shafar’s vision beautifully aligns with our philosophy, transforming celestial rhythms into a tangible and poetic experience.”
Beyond its striking aesthetics, “Crescent to Crescent” serves as a tribute to the sacred rhythms of Ramadan, where time itself becomes a contemplative practice. Visitors can engage with the installation throughout Ramadan 2025, after which it will travel to select international locations, ensuring a global audience experiences this unique convergence of horology and art.
By merging artistic innovation with horological mastery, Jaeger-LeCoultre and Khalid Shafar have created a timeless testament to the beauty of celestial cycles, reaffirming the Maison’s role as the Watchmaker of Watchmakers™, and a true patron of creativity.