A New Luxury Watch Celebrates India’s Ambani Family and Their Private Zoo
A luxury watch inspired by a private zoo owned by Mukesh Ambani’s family has been launched in India, featuring a hand-painted figurine of the tycoon’s youngest son, Anant Ambani. Created by luxury watchmaker Jacob & Co., the ornately designed timepiece is estimated to be valued at approximately $1.5 million.
Why It Matters
This extravagant watch not only highlights the opulence associated with the Ambani family but also serves as a cultural statement, intertwining luxury with themes of wildlife conservation and philanthropy. The unveiling comes on the heels of significant media attention surrounding the family’s private wildlife center, prompting discussions about the ethical implications of private zoos.
Key Developments
- The watch features sculpted figures of a lion and a Bengal tiger surrounding a statue of Anant Ambani, seated in a chair.
- Jacob & Co. has not made the price publicly available, but it is estimated to be about $1.5 million.
- The private wildlife center, known as Vantara, houses over 2,000 species but is not open to the public.
- Previous allegations against the zoo involved claims of unlawful animal acquisition and mistreatment, but a Supreme Court-appointed investigation found no wrongdoing.
- The watch contains 397 precious stones, including diamonds and sapphires.
Full Report
The newly unveiled luxury watch features intricate designs and symbolizes stewardship and responsibility, according to Jacob & Co.’s social media announcement. The figure of Anant Ambani at the center of the watch’s dial serves to signify the family’s commitment to wildlife conservation.
Vantara, the private wildlife rescue and rehabilitation center in Jamnagar, Gujarat, spans 3,500 acres and is a sanctuary for various animals, including elephants and tigers. While the private zoo is under the ownership of Anant Ambani, it attracted media scrutiny last year due to allegations regarding animal care. A thorough investigation by a Supreme Court-appointed team cleared the center of these allegations.
Jacob & Co. has not disclosed the watch’s availability in retail stores yet, leaving luxury watch enthusiasts eager for further information from the brand’s India retail partner, Ethos Watches.
Context & Previous Events
Vantara was inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in March of the previous year and gained global attention during Anant Ambani’s pre-wedding celebrations in early 2024, where numerous celebrities, including Kim Kardashian and Rihanna, were in attendance. Business leaders and former political figures, including Bill Gates and Tony Blair, were also part of the celebrations.
