In this context of pervading uniformity, Barthelay concentrated on his special know-how: jewellery. His aim was no longer to draw inspiration from passing fashion trends, currently with eccentric connotations, but to offer true pieces of jewellery that told the time: elegant, refined, highly luxurious watches. His inspiration, no less fertile, was in service to beauty. He attempted to interpret Parisian tradition, a subtle combination of innovation and balance.
The « Tresse », inspired by antique inlay work and perfected in 1986, is perhaps the most successful example to date of this know-how and of the balance of shapes and proportions. The timepiece is the result of half a century of aesthetic maturation; its realization was made possible by exemplary technical mastery.