Where did the name Black Tulip stem from? The answer lies in Dutch history, rewinding all the way back to the 17th Century and the Tulip Mania. Now a national symbol, the tulip was introduced from the Ottoman Empire in the 16th Century, and, if my own memory serves me right, the word itself stems from what we now know as the turban head dress, which is logical when you observe the folds of the tulip petals. The tulip became a symbol of wealth in Holland, and among enthusiasts, the pursuit of a pure black tulip became the ultimate challenge. This was considered nearly impossible due to the genetics of the flowers, tulips, and represented a triumph in horticulture, a symbol of prestige, luxury, and rarity. On a more personal level, I would love to see a black dial version of this debut creation, but I am sure that is already being considered by Annelinde herself…” In the long term,” said Dunselman, “I hope my work will speak for itself. Through quality, through recognisability,” Annelinde said, adding, “and through a distinctive, timeless design that continues to resonate with people.”