The Backes & Strauss Regent 1609 AD limited edition watch packs a little history into a gorgeous package. The watch is named for the year when English astronomer Thomas Harriett made the first drawings of the moon . To celebrate the event the watch features a moon-phase indicator decorated with a 17-star constellation delineated in diamonds. The watches are produced in collaboration with Geneva’s Franck Muller Watchland, which manufactures the movements and completes assembly. The watch also features a diamond set in the crown as well as on the bezel and lugs.

The Regent 1609 AD is currently on display in the Harrods Fine Jewellery and Watch Room opposite the de Beers boutique, until it is officially launched in October 2008. This is the first limited edition watch from Backes & Strauss and it is limited to 219 pieces (in two sizes) and available in different diamond combinations (from £17,000)