A ladybird, or ladybug, as it is known in North America, is a small domed beetle from the Coccinellidae family. Interesting to note, for a time in the 1600s, it was known as the ladycow. But ladies the world over will probably agree that wasn’t the best name for something so delicate and dainty.

When Blancpain introduced the Ladybird in 1956, it was the world’s smallest round watch. It has lasted through the years with a few modifications here and there while still maintaining its elegance and modernity. Sixty years ago, ladies watches were ornamental and jeweled, and the daintier, the better. Blancpain revealed the world’s smallest round movement, the R550 caliber, and despite the small size, it had a power reserve of more than 40 hours. Not bad these days but definitely a feat 60 years ago. Interesting to note, the crown back then was re-located to the back of the watch.

The combination of the delicate design and wonderful horology made the Ladybird an instant success. Elegant women everywhere wanted this piece to adorn their wrists. True today still, as the most modern version is still an eye-catcher – ultra-slim and self-winding, with a diamond-set bezel and a mother-of-pearl dial, the watch is now powered by the automatic 6150 caliber.

Perfect for any occasion in a lady’s life, you can choose one from either the 99-piece limited edition set which has a removable charm with a ruby heart, or from the 60-piece limited edition set that was introduced at Baselworld. The second set has a feminine foliage motif, and 32 diamonds on the bezel. The strap, in delicious pink, is from Louisiana alligator leather with special fine scales.

Blancpain didn’t stop with these two offerings though, as they presented two additional models exclusively at Baselworld. They added 4 small ruby hearts to the mother-of-pearl dial, and a removable reversed heart charm too. The second Baselworld model is in red gold with an opaline dial and diamond-set bezel.