Meet Biren Vaidya, The Visionary Behind Rose’s Limited Edition Ranthambore Reserve Timepiece

Creative Director Biren Vaidya has always looked at nature as his ultimate muse. At The House of Rose, his design philosophy has long been rooted in emotion, memory, and a profound sense of place. During a visit to Rajasthan’s Ranthambore National Park, surrounded by ancient stone fortresses, sun-washed teak forests, and the quiet tension of the wild, he encountered the Royal Bengal tiger.

Watching the tiger move freely within its natural world changed something within him. The stillness, the power, the sheer presence of that moment stayed. In collaboration with Backes & Strauss, the world’s oldest diamond company, he transformed that experience into a remarkable creation.

The Ranthambore Reserve timepiece is limited to just five pieces globally. It interprets the textures of the forest and the commanding elegance of the tiger with precision and poetry. The earthy tones of the watch meet intricate detailing, and British craftsmanship meets Indian soul. Every facet speaks of storytelling and restraint, the philosophy that defines Rose. In this exclusive interview with Robb Report India, Biren Vaidya opens up about inspiration, collaboration, timelessness, and what exclusivity in luxury truly means.

RR India: The Ranthambore Reserve is inspired by the stillness and power of the Royal Bengal Tiger. How did you interpret this wilderness into design? Was there a particular memory from Ranthambore that shaped the piece?

Biren: The wilderness of Ranthambore is both serene and powerful. The design draws from that duality, the calm of the forest and the quiet strength of the tiger. The deep forest green dial reflects the lush canopy, while the bold R at twelve o'clock anchors the composition as a tribute to the landscape itself. Every detail was meant to evoke the stillness, mystery, and grace that define the reserve.

RR India: You have spent four decades designing for Maisons such as BVLGARI, Chopard, and Franck Muller. How has that shaped your understanding of timelessness, and what has carried forward into Rose? 

Biren: Working with iconic maisons has been an education in craftsmanship, precision, and emotional storytelling. Over time, it shaped our belief that timeless design lies in balance. At Rose, we carry forward that philosophy by creating pieces that are expressive yet enduring, always rooted in purpose and authenticity.

RR India: The Ranthambore Reserve merges high jewellery artistry with horological precision. What was the shared philosophy when you collaborated with Backes & Strauss?

Biren: This collaboration was built on a shared respect for artistry and heritage. Backes & Strauss brings centuries of British craftsmanship and diamond expertise. Rose contributes the poetry and emotion of Indian design. Together the goal was to create a timepiece that felt both soulful and precise, one that celebrated the beauty of nature while honouring the values of both houses.

RR India: Every creation from Rose feels rooted in emotion and narrative. How important is storytelling in your design process?

Biren: Storytelling is at the heart of our creative process. Every piece begins with an idea or a feeling rather than a sketch, a sense of place or memory that gradually takes form through design. This ensures that every creation carries depth and meaning. The Ranthambore Reserve is an example of how narrative and craftsmanship can come together to create something truly personal.

RR India: In a digital world, Rose continues to focus on touch, materiality, and connection. How do you retain that intimacy in luxury?

Biren: In a world where digital experiences dominate, the human connection has become more meaningful than ever. At Rose, we focus on craftsmanship and genuine interaction. Clients today, especially younger collectors, want to know the process behind what they own. This desire for authenticity reinforces our belief that true luxury will always be rooted in human touch.

RR India: You often speak about reinvention. What does reinvention mean to you today?

Biren: Reinvention means evolving without losing our essence. Heritage gives continuity while curiosity keeps creativity alive. Each collection is an opportunity to explore new ideas through the lens of our values. The Ranthambore Reserve reflects that balance. It is inspired by nature, and crafted through time-honoured techniques, yet expressed in a contemporary form.

RR India: Luxury often whispers rather than shouts. How do you decide when restraint is enough and when boldness is necessary?

Biren: Luxury design is about knowing when to be understated and when to make a statement. Some creations invite quiet appreciation through subtle detailing, while others are meant to be bold and expressive. Over the years, we have learned that the most lasting pieces are those that feel effortless, where refinement and character coexist naturally.

RR India: The Ranthambore Reserve is limited to five pieces worldwide. What does exclusivity mean beyond rarity?

Biren: Exclusivity is more about connection than quantity. When a piece is created in small numbers, every stage becomes personal, from design to craftsmanship to the experience of ownership. The Ranthambore Reserve embodies that belief. It is not just rare. It is meaningful, created for those who value artistry and emotion as much as rarity. 

Only five individuals in the world will ever wear this watch, but the sentiment behind it belongs to everyone who believes that luxury should feel personal. After all, in the end, the Ranthambore Reserve does not just tell time. It tells a story.