Coco Chanel was a serial style pioneer, and among the many revolutions she provoked in the world of fashion was the creation of the shoulder bag. Until she debuted the 2.55 bag (in February 1955, which accounts for the name), most handbags were hand-carried and unwieldy. This elegant and timeless piece, with its signature chain strap, has become an enduring icon. Such is its cachet that the clasp is the inspiration for the latest Chanel timepiece, the Code Coco.

In keeping with Chanel’s legacy, the new ultra-chic Code Coco watch is playful and beguiling. It is certainly a timepiece, but is also styled as an elegant piece of jewellery and, as its name suggests, it is a cipher for the many codes contained in all creations from the house of Chanel. The fluid stainless steel bracelet comprises tiny square ceramic tiles that reference Chanel’s famous quilted design, matelassé – embraced in many Chanel pieces – while a princess-cut diamond embellishes the top half of a black lacquer dial bisected by the exact replica of the bag fastener, and the other half showcases the simple tiny dial, devoid of any markers or numerals.

In a unique twist, the Code Coco is fastened and unfastened on top of the wrist, rather than behind it and, excitingly, the 2.55 clasp produces a satisfying click on being shut. The clasp bar can be rotated to expose or conceal the time. Powered by a high-precision quartz movement, the timepiece is available with a bezel set with 52 brilliant-cut diamonds, or without. It’s an original and sassy timepiece that could become as perennial as the 2.55.

Chanel Code Coco, from £5,200; chanel.com