Timeline

Origins

Born in the wake of the marriage of Alfred Van Cleef and Estelle Arpels, the Maison came into being at Place Vendôme in Paris in 1906, marking the debut of a bejeweled destiny.

1895

Wedding of Estelle Arpels and Alfred Van Cleef in Paris

In 1895 in Paris, Esther, aka Estelle Arpels, married Alfred Van Cleef, both from families of jewelry merchants. The couple shared the same values: a sense of family, a spirit of innovation and a passion for precious stones.

1906

Foundation of the Maison
Van Cleef & Arpels at Place Vendôme

Alfred Van Cleef partnered with Salomon, aka Charles Arpels, his brother-in-law, to open the first Van Cleef & Arpels boutique at 22 Place Vendôme, a center of Parisian elegance. Jules, aka Julien, and Louis Arpels joined the Maison in 1908 and 1912. Van Cleef & Arpels has never moved from that legendary address.

1906

Creation of the scale model of the Varuna Yacht

One of the first orders placed with the Maison was a scale model of the Varuna Yacht. This precious object is unique in that it contains an electric bell to call the butler.

1916

Creation of Touch Wood pieces

The Maison designed Touch Wood pieces, jewelry made of wood and precious materials, a loving nod to good-luck charms.

 

1918

Châtelaine watches in fashion