Sandra‘s Closet

In an ever-changing world, Hublot stays true to its philosophy of being first, unique, different: unveiling a new Big Bang, christened Millennial Pink, designed in collaboration with Garage Italia and Lapo Elkann. A new approach to timekeeping, one which looks to the future, setting trends. More than a watch, it is a state of mind. Gender Neutral.

«At Hublot, we are particularly proud of the Art of Fusion. But the list of things we cherish also includes the ability to innovate, to change, to be different, and, of course, our watchmaking expertise. This Big Bang Millennial Pink that we have created with Lapo Elkann from Garage Italia sits perfectly within this pioneering vision. Our expertise in materials technology has enabled us to create a unique colour for this watch, Millennial Pink, symbolic of the world available to us, in its constant state of flux.»
Ricardo Guadalupe – CEO of HUBLOT

«At Garage Italia, we want to be part of a world where the character of every person is defined by their love of life and their inclusivity, rather than by their power or their superiority. More than simply a product, we want to create something which represents a positive change.»
Lapo Elkann – FOUNDER & CREATIVE CHAIRMAN of GARAGE ITALIA

For some, it is powder pink or pastel; for others, a subtle blend of beige and salmon, apricot and grapefruit. Intriguing and undefinable, Millennial Pink takes its place today as a pink which is not in the exclusive realm of women, nor that of men, but truly a symbol of a completely new generation. This special hue marks a seismic shift which will change the status quo: established traditional values are being reconsidered through a lens of positivity. Pink – this pink – expresses a gentle, inclusive and confident approach to life. A fresh, young vision, full of substance, which redefines style.

This chromatic illustration of a new era could not escape the notice of Lapo Elkann, Founder & Creative Chairman of Garage Italia, and his team. It is this way of thinking, shared by Hublot and its partner Garage Italia, which gave rise to the Big Bang Millennial Pink.

Its 42-mm case sets the tone: made from modern, lightweight aluminium, a unisex and monochrome material, anodised, satin-finished and through-tinted millennial pink. This technical feat has been made possible thanks to research undertaken by Hublot’s engineers. This highly specific colour is obtained by anodisation, a process which both protects and decorates a part, and which has the advantage of giving the case and its components the desired pastel shade combined with remarkable resistance to scratches and impacts. Its proportions ensure it sits perfectly on any wrist. Gender Neutral. The Unico chronograph manufacture movement, boasting a 72-hour power reserve, has a chronograph mechanism on the dial side and a column wheel.

The highly versatile Big Bang Millennial Pink is supplied with two straps. The first is made from rubber and has a deployant buckle made from titanium covered with a decorative layer of the same anodised and satin-finished millennial pink aluminium as the case. The second strap is a mix of Velcro and knitted PES fabric, and is secured with a sporty buckle in millennial pink anodised and polished aluminium. The two straps are easily interchangeable thanks to Hublot’s exclusive patented One Click system.

Disruptive, creating new codes for traditional luxury, the Big Bang Millennial Pink produced in collaboration with Garage Italia will only be available in a very exclusive limited edition of 200 pieces. Price: CHF 19.900,  € 20.700, $ 20.900 or £ 17.300.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: Courtesy of Hublot and © Sandra Bauknecht
This post is sponsored. To stay up-to-date, follow: @Hublot #Hublot #BigBangMillennialPink

Why do all good things happen at the same time? Last week, I was invited by HUBLOT to join them in Capri for the launch of an amazing nautically-inspired piece in collaboration with ITALIA INDEPENDENT. As I had my girls’ weekend in Belgrade, I couldn’t go unfortunately but I still want to share this with you as I find the watch a true must-have. Paying tribute to Lapo Elkann’s passion and love for the sea by drawing inspiration from the nautical world and from his own experiences and memories within.

Lapo Elkan working on the new Big Bang Unico Teak Italia Independent.

It has been several years since the Founder and Artistic Director of Italia Independent and Garage Italia, Lapo Elkann, and HUBLOT were discussing about a nautical-related watch. And for good reasons. From his earliest childhood, Lapo was cradled by the movement of the waves, thanks to his iconic grandfather who was himself passionate about sailing. Lapo even won the famous race, the Fastnet, with his brother aboard the mythical Stealth.

Lapo Elkann’s legendary grandfather, L’Avvocato (the lawyer), Gianni Agnelli, had indeed an all-consuming passion for sailing. This was to such an extent that he was responsible for creating Azzurra, the first Italian team and challenge to win the America’s Cup. During his enthralling life, he had several yachts built so that he could indulge in his favourite sport.

Saint Tropez 90 – Gianni Agnelli with model Elle Macpherson and Tim Jefferies on his yacht.

In the mid-1990s, he ordered from the naval architect German Frers an exceptional, unique sailing boat whose name Stealth was a nod to the American Air Force’s F-117 fighters which were capable of avoiding radar detection. Like these aircrafts and thanks to the visionary Gianni Agnelli, this superyacht displayed the technical characteristic, a first at the time, of the wide use of Kevlar carbon and other composite material. The yacht was characterised by cutting-edge geometrical shapes, which together with the carbon fiber black sails would have a great influence on Lapo Elkann’s work as a designer.

Lapo Elkann and Ricardo Guadalupe unveiling the Hublot Big Bang Unico Teak Italia Independent in Capri last week.

«This new project made us aware of the unsuspected links between the world of sailing and our watchmaking expertise, including, for example, the use of materials and techniques that are at the forefront of innovation we have managed to combine with traditional teak wood. A perfect match between technology and tradition, or the very meaning of the Art of Fusion! Here, our partnership with Lapo Elkann and his brand Italia Independent takes on an emotional, creative and technical dimension.»
Ricardo Guadalupe, CEO of Hublot

Paying tribute to this passion, HUBLOT and Lapo Elkann have once again come together to make a watch. And what setting could be more appropriate for its presentation than the blue of the island of Capri? It was here in the Hublot boutique on the main street Vittorio Emanuele, that guests were able to discover the Hublot Big Bang Unico Teak Italia Independent, the production of which will be limited to 100 pieces.

Based on the legendary Big Bang Unico chronograph, this watch uses the style codes of the yachts of the late Gianni Agnelli, Azzurra, Agneta, Extra Beat, Stealth and particularly the Tiketitoo, whose hull was stained a warm golden colour. The case and the push-pieces are machined in King Gold, a unique alloy of gold and platinum developed by the HUBLOT manufacture. On the dial, the indexes are in orange while its bezel is cut out of teak, a precious wood usually adorning the deck of the finest boats. With a 45-mm diameter and water resistance to 100 metres, the watch encloses the UNICO HUB1242 calibre house chronograph movement, which has a 72-hour power reserve. This masterpiece of technology and watchmaking expertise is visible through the sapphire glass mounted on the back of the watch.

«As long as I can remember, sailing has been part of my life. I have spent many hours sailing the Mediterranean, like here in Capri or off the coast of Brazil.
I started very young thanks to my grandfather Gianni Agnelli love story with incredible boats which I was lucky to sail on. Each of them has a special memory but Stealth has a special place not only for his unrepeated, one of kind design but also because of our victory of the Fastnet with it.
I am therefore very proud to be able to pay tribute to him with this new watch.
A maritime spirit that has been perfectly restored thanks to the technical expertise of our partner Hublot.»
Lapo Elkann, Founder and Artistic Director of Italia Independent and Garage Italia

Each model of the Big Bang Unico Teak Italia Independent has two straps. The first, inspired by the world of regattas, is cut out of a real boat sail in Kevlar carbon with a rubber base. The second, which is orange and striped, is made entirely of rubber. The watch is fitted with the revolutionary One Click system which means that both straps are interchangeable at whim.

The 100 pieces of the Hublot Big Bang Unico Teak Italia Independent watches will be delivered in a case containing a pair of Italia Independent sunglasses whose frames uses the same teak wood as the bezel of the watch. Do you fancy setting sail?

LoL, Sandra

Photos: ©Hublot and via L’Avvocato

On Tuesday night in Milan, Hublot presented its new Classic Fusion Italia Independent collection at the famous shop of Italian luxury tailor Rubinacci. You might ask yourself now: what do you get when you mix the watchmaking expertise of Hublot, the limitless creativity of Italia Independent through its founder Lapo Elkann, and the treasures of the famous Italian tailor Rubinacci? The Art of Fusion! And we all know that when it comes to fashion, the Italians are ahead of the game!

Since 2014, two collections have been born from the partnership between Hublot, Italia Independent and Lapo Elkann. Although both of the previous collections were based on the legendary Big Bang Unico model, this time the magic of this wildly creative team was unleashed on the Classic Fusion model. Its name seems to have predestined it for this new special edition: there has never been such a fine example of the fusion of the ‘classic’ and innovation.

“As a creator, I have always put customisation and bespoke designs, which for me represent real luxury, at the heart of my different projects. It is with this in mind that I conceive and design unique objects, which meet my tastes and requirements, but also satisfy my clients. I like the fact that they become truly mine and that they are distinctive, and this is the case for the Classic Fusion Italia Independent collection.” Lapo Elkann, Founder and Artistic Director of Italia Independent.

Lapo Elkann with Luca Rubinacci

This was a task that was made-to-measure (no pun intended) for Lapo Elkann who is frequently named “the most elegant man in the world” and who has made bespoke designs and customisation his signature. He brought Ferrari’s ‘Tailor Made’ programme to life, and he is continuing and expanding upon the concept with Garage Italia Customs; cars, boats, planes and helicopters, with a unique level of customisation, personalisation and innovative creativity for the whole mobility industry. Lapo also applies this same expertise to the creations that he designs for Hublot and Italia Independent.

Hublot CEO Ricardo Guadalupe, Lapo Elkann, Luca Rubinacci and Mariano Rubinacci.

The “sartoria Rubinacci” was not chosen at random: since 1932, three generations of Rubinacci have been at the reins of this institution of good taste and masculine refinement: Gennaro, the founding grandfather, Mariano, the father who now manages the house from Naples and, of course Luca, master of the store in Milan, and one of the most photographed men on the planet thanks to his unique style. Between them they have dressed everybody from the Duke of Kent to singer Bryan Ferry, not to mention of course the Agnelli family, of which Lapo Elkann is the worthy successor.

Lapo and Luca choosing the fabrics.

The House of Rubinacci holds the most beautiful collection of fabrics in its archives. It was here, in the more than 60,000 square metres of precious houndstooth, tweeds and other cloths that Hublot and Lapo Elkann found a collection of tartans—squared coloured wool weaves from the seventies—that they brought back to life by including them in the Classic Fusion as a chronograph. The dial and straps have therefore been made using these precious fabrics to offer this range of 45 mm timekeepers an end result that is the epitome of elegance. “La vera sprezzatura!”

I chose these fabrics thinking about the costumes that we make for Lapo Elkann. I began with the extravagant colours of a vivid tartan with a sporty tone, then a more traditional houndstooth—in the style of an Italian gentleman—that I wanted in black and white, the colours of his favourite team Juventus F.C. I didn’t think that it was possible to put wool on the straps and dial of a watch. But, Hublot managed it and the result is better than I could have hoped for. We have achieved a balanced watch, with a pattern effect that is neither too bold nor too light.“ Luca Rubinacci

A collection full of Italian style and spirit!

LoL, Sandra

The Phly Boyz were entertaining the guests at the event in Milan.

Rubinacci – the epitome of style.

Photos: Courtesy of Hublot

When money’s no object and your other half has everything he can wish for, finding a perfect Christmas present might be quite challenging. Only the most unique or outrageous for your loved one will obviously do, so here’s my pick of the ridiculously extravagant and special, part fantasy and all fun, from a ten thousand dollar backgammon set to a bag filled with garden tools.

Technology and men, you cannot go wrong with that! This limited edition cell phone was designed by Lapo Elkann, heir to Italy’s Fiat Automotive empire, and the creator of one of the most modern labels today, Italia Independent, in collaboration with Vertu. 
The phone boasts with the vibrant blue motif of Italia Independent and offers all the luxury concierge services Vertu is known for.
Constellation Blue by Vertu – CHF 9.700

For the nature lover:
Bag filled with garden tools by Prada, CHF 1990.-

This might be the perfect addition for your gardener to enjoy a snack outside:
3-piece picnic cutlery set by Hermès – CHF 1400.-

Luxury gaming is the perfect gift for the holiday season.
Chess set boxed in the house’s iconic Saffiano leather by Prada – CHF 3240.-

Hermès is also in the game and proposes, of course, something truly luxurious:
Backgammon set by Hermès – CHF 11050.-
The very exclusive piece is competing with …

… Prada’s playful approach at a more accessible price.
Backgammon set and Nine Men’s Morris, both by Prada, each CHF 2490.-

Miuccia’s “It-bag” for all lovers of this sport:
Golf bag – CHF 1240.- and tees – CHF 200.-, both by Prada

A very exclusive scent might always be a good choice. Let me introduce you to the new Essenze by Ermenegildo Zegna collection, comprising of five signature fragrances, each dedicated to one raw material, Italian Bergamot, Sicilian Mandarin, Javanese Patchouli, Indonesian Oud and Florentine Iris.

Available exclusively in Ermenegildo Zegna Boutiques (Switzerland, Singapore, Korea, Japan, Italy, UK, France, Germany, Austria, North America and Mexico).
In Zurich also sold at Jelmoli. Each scent (125ml) – CHF 260.-

For the true connoisseur: Your beloved one will love you for this leather travel case and spray, that will surely become his portable business trip companion. Not only is it the perfect size to slide into his briefcase, but, at 30ml, it’s way beneath the 100ml liquid limit on flights.
Acqua di Parma Essenza Leather Travel Spray – CHF 120.- (30ml)

Or how about this collector’s item designed by Silvia Fendi: A quintessentially case in black crocodile embossed leather for the Italian house’s signature scent, a limited edition object of luxury and desire bearing the emblematic Fendi codes. 
In Switzerland only available at the Fendi Boutique in Geneva.
Fan di FENDI Pour Homme Eau de Toilette, Limited Edition 2012 – CHF 337.-

Your world-travelling husband and boyfriend will thank you forever! Sleepless nights and drowsy mornings have become a common experience in today’s life. This bracelet with it’s Natural Frequency Technology helps wearers with a good and restful sleep and you might want to steal it off his wrist …
Sleep Bracelet with Natural Frequency Technology by Philip Stein, CHF 360.-
Available at Swiss Shop Duty Free, in Zurich at Max Affolter Uhren & Bijouterie, Limmatquai.

Who says I don’t cater to all tastes, here is an offbeat way to spice up your beloved man’s pen collection. You just have to choose if he is more the gun or sword type…
Pens, each CHF 330.- and document cases, each CHF 490.-, both by Prada

I hope that you have found some inspirations!

LoL, Sandra

Photos: Courtesy of Hermès, Prada, Vertu, Philip Stein, Ermenegildo Zegna, Acqua di Parma

You cannot be everywhere… The same day I flew to Paris for the amazing shoot with Dior, I was also invited to London for another special event.

La Mania – the Polish fashion house under the Honorary Patronage of Karl Lagerfeld – and Galerie Gmurzynska hosted a multimedia event, so-called “Fairy Tale Mania”, presenting La Mania’s F/W 2012 collection and exhibiting the new work of artist Marco Perego. You might recognize Perego’s work from last year’s post when I met him in Zurich.

In case you haven’t heard of La Mania before, here are some facts. The label is the brainchild of Joanna Przetakiewicz, launched in 2010 with the one-of-a-kind blessing by her friend Karl Lagerfeld who has been offering guidance and inspiration to the Polish designer. Joanna is not only wearing her designs, she is also one of the rare Haute Couture clients in the world. The last time I saw her, was at the Stéphane Rolland show in Paris.

The exhibition “Fairy Tale Mania” is open to the public until the end of February at the Royal Opera Arcade Gallery, 5b Pall Mall, London SW1 (free entry). It represents Poland in the International Fashion Showcase project, organized by British Council and British Fashion Council as part of London Fashion Week.

Below you can see some photos of the event in London.

LoL, Sandra

Marco Perego
MY SOUL: Don’t leave me empty…
Painted metal, resin
2011

Isabelle Bscher, daughter of Krystyna Gmurzynska, and artist Marco Perego

Lapo Elkann, Zaha Hadid and Marco Perego

Joanna Przetakiewicz with models in her F/W 2012 collection

Joanna Przetakiewicz with her partner Jan Kulczyk, a prominent Polish business oligarch

Mathias Rastorfer, Zaha Hadid, Isabelle Bscher and Krystyna Gmurzynska
Photos: © Brauer

Last Friday, I went to the opening of Marco Perego’s first solo exhibition in Switzerland entitled “Secrets” curated by Isabelle Bscher at Galerie Gmurzynska. The exhibition features works from 2011 including 
3 sculptures, 40 drawings and 10 paintings and will be open until October 25, 2011.

The artist Marco Perego with me last Friday at the opening

Perego, born 1979 in Verona, Italy, is a very good-looking former soccer star who is now based in Los Angeles. He has presented solo shows worldwide, including a solo exhibition at the Museo Archeolgico Nazionale in Florence in 2008. In the same year, he unveiled one of his most controversial pieces, “The only good rockstar is a dead rock star”, a sculpture of a dead Amy Winehouse lying in a pool of blood, long before the soulful R’n’B songstress met an untimely end past July. In 2008 his painted works formed the background of Dolce & Gabbana’s advertising campaign. His animated film “Burn to Shine” will premiere next year at Sundance Film Festival.

Dolce & Gabbana’s S/S 2008 ad campaign with Marco Perego’s paintings in the back

Marco Perego with Isabelle Bscher*

Perego’s Portrait of Isabelle Bscher, Mixed media on paper, 2011

In 2007 Marco describes himself in an interview with the New York Observer like this: “I just believe in my dreams, the sun in the face, wind in the back, the rest take care from the destiny to dance with the stars.” He spent a year with Shamans in Argentina, after which he started his series „Secrets“. Perego who has taken inspiration from Freuds dream analysis, told Bscher: „These are drawings of the unconsious, of the inner demon within.“

The artist is known for his controversial paintings, often a fantasy that perverts images that we take for granted as innocent. For example, when the Evil Queen drops all pretensions of prude as well as her knickers in front of the Seven Dwarves.

Vladimir Restoin-Roitfeld with me

Vladimir Restoin-Roitfeld, Carine Roitfeld’s son, art dealer and curator himself, counts the artist amongst his closest friends. So no wonder, he came with an entourage of famous and close friends to the opening, among them Fiat scion Lapo Elkann and Starvos Niarchos.

From left to right: Mathias Rastorfer, Andrea Kracht, Marco Perego and Lapo Elkann*

Famous friends: Niclas Pol, Vladimir Restoin-Roitfeld, Starvos Niarchos, Andy Valmorbida with Marco Perego.*

About his life in the city and his friends he said once to the New York Observer: “It’s the same, because I never forget where I’m from. I am the same kid. I love to sit down and be like a voyeur. I love to watch people, and feel like a pirate. My friends are the best pirates in the world. I promise.”

Marco Perego, La terre et la lune, 2011, Gypsum, 158 x 140 x 140cm

I especially love the sculpture “La terre et la lune“.
You can count me definitely among Perego’s fans.

LoL, Sandra

My outfit last Friday: 
Baseball jacket, striped pants and top by Balmain, patent shoes by Stella McCartney and bag by Gucci.

Photos: © Sandra Bauknecht, Photos with* are courtesy of Galerie Gmurzynska