Sandra‘s Closet

By combining exclusive high watchmaking caliber with a subversive Vanitas, Louis Vuitton orchestrates a scintillating show with the Tambour Carpe Diem. This virtuoso timepiece writes a new chapter in the history of the jacquemart watch.

Having produced several special orders for watches with automata in secret for a select group of clients, Louis Vuitton decided to lift the veil on the mystery by creating a one-of-a-kind model. It took two years of development for the Tambour Carpe Diem to join the House’s watch collections. «Our aim was to get off the beaten track», explains Michel Navas, Master Watchmaker at La Fabrique du Temps Louis Vuitton. «We wanted to bring to the jacquemart our vision of the 21st century with all the energy and creativity characteristic of our brand since it began producing watches in 2002.»

The historic jacquemart on top of the Zytgloggle tower in Bern.

Originally, jacquemarts were automata, mechanised figure of a person, usually made from wood or metal, created to strike the hours on church bell towers. A well-known historic jacquemart is found on top of the Zytglogge tower in Bern, Switzerland for example.

When watchmakers miniaturised them on timepieces, their function became essentially decorative – to add a bit of fun to the dial – and the time continued to be indicated by classic hands.
Today, Louis Vuitton wanted to give jacquemarts back their original meaning. In order to do this, the framework of the Tambour Carpe Diem was built around two major axes, a perfect mastery of this type of calibre in which the automaton is truly functional as it tells the time on demand, without hands.

By pressing a push-piece, the dial’s miniature scenery comes to life on the wrist and the story’s protagonists, the snake and the skull which perform the role of jacquemarts, indicate the time. To this is added another determining feature in the creation of this high-watchmaking timepiece, a unique stylistic approach on the historic symbolic art theme of the Vanitas, tackled in a way that is both positive and subversive. I love this 21^st century jacquemart watch!

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © Louis Vuitton and via the city of Bern

The famous French writer Antoine de Saint-Exupéry once said «Perfection is achieved, not when there is nothing more to add, but when there is nothing to take away.» From the power of his words, modern power style begins! I love to incorporate tailoring that embodies the ultimate juxtaposition between the masculine and the feminine. In speaking about dressing for success, a power suit is one that lives at the intersection of conservatism and boldness. Modern, powerful, and sexy, add a pair of heels that command authority and play with the accessories. My masculine watch challenges the traditional norms of femininity and exudes confidence, allowing me to express strength and perseverance. Being in line with Saint-Exupéry, definitely not a piece to take away from me…

My look: Asymmetric pinstriped and Prince of Wales checked wool blazer and matching Prince of Wales checked wool and cashmere-blend tapered pants, both by Alexander McQueen, ribbed-knit thong bodysuit by Michael Kors Collection, Carrera Automatic Chronograph by TAG Heuer, Jumbo Lilico sandals in navy blue and black, and matching Bonnie Jumbo Lilico velvet bag, both by Sophia Webster.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © David Biedert Photography
DISCLOSURE: This post is sponsored. We may earn commission from links on this page, but I only recommend products I love. Promise.

This Easter, I went on a special egg hunt and found an amazing treasure, a beautiful new watch at the newly opened TAG Heuer boutique in Zurich. Located on the prestigious Bahnhofstrasse, it is the fourth flagship store in its home country of Switzerland, complementing its existing Geneva, Zermatt and Lucerne point of sales.

Launched in 1860, in Saint-Imier at the very heart of the birthplace of watchmaking, by a bold young named Edouard Heuer, it is owned since 1999 by French luxury goods conglomerate LVMH. The name TAG Heuer combines the initials of «Techniques d’Avant Garde» and the founder’s surname.

Capturing TAG Heuer’s motto, originally introduced in 1991, «Don’t Crack Under Pressure», are prominent partnerships and brand ambassadors that express the brand’s passion for action and high performance, among them actors Chris Hemsworth and Patrick Dempsey, ATP next-generation tennis players Alex de Minaur, Frances Tiafoe, Denis Shapovalov and Felix Auger Aliassime, and big wave surfer Kai Lenny. They are athletes, surfers, actors, pilots. Whatever the conditions, they want to make history and break records. No matter the pressure, the public and adversity, they never give up, they never back down from any challenge. Therefore you can imagine my excitement to be also a TAG Heuer ambassador, as I breathe the same energy. I never give up, I never let myself down. If I have a vision, I go for it, no matter what!

So which watch did I choose you might ask? You will be amazed. It’s not a ladies watch, not a diamond watch. I went for this amazing masculine Carrera Automatic Chronograph that sets a blistering new pace in prestige timekeeping in sumptuously chic black and rose gold. Housed in a 44-mm steel polished, fine brushed case, the legendary Calibre HEUER02 Automatic movement now comes outfitted with splendid finery. Sober yet stellar, 18K 5N rose gold accents the entire timepiece, from hands and indexes to the watch’s crowns and push-pieces.

The black brushed dial sits under a sapphire crystal dome, locked in with a ceramic black tachymeter fixed bezel. Inside, the manufacture Heuer 02 movement made with a vertical clutch and column wheel – signatures of improved chronograph timekeeping and high-quality manufacture movements – will last 80 hours with an impressive power reserve. The sporty yet elegant design is highlighted by a black alligator strap and steel folding clasp, exuding strength and speed.

The Carrera model has a beautiful story. In 1962, CEO at the time Jack Heuer, the great-grandchild of Edouard Heuer, wanted a clean and well-proportioned chronograph designed for drivers and inspired to the world of motor racing. When he heard the Spanish word «Carrera», used for the renowned Carrera Panamericana race, he loved the sound and the multiple meanings – including road, race, course and career – so much that he quickly decided that the product had to be called «Carrera». The Heuer Carrera was launched in 1963 and since then it has been a symbol of the brand and one of the most popular sport chronographs ever designed.

I personally love that this 44-mm case adopts well to my small wrist. It symbolizes strength, power and diversity for me. I see myself wearing it with a romantic floral dress as well as a business suit. Stay tuned for many unexpected combinations, for this certain twist, for this «je ne sais quoi» attitude that makes the difference. But don’t feel pressure, or at least don’t crack under it!

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © David Biedert Photography
DISCLOSURE: This post is sponsored. 

Dear Anouk, from the day you came into this world, I was as proud as can be, blessed with you as my beautiful daughter. So every year we had been celebrating this very special day together to mark another milestone in your life. This year is the first time we are separated due to the current pandemic. I am wishing you all the happiness in the world, celebrate to the fullest! Happy Birthday, Anouk, I cannot wait to hold you in my arms again and will always treasure the moment when I held you for the first time 19 years ago, on April 4th, 2002 at 12.34pm.

You laugh with me at ordinary things, you share my thoughts and understand the things I do and say. As you inspire me every day, your name has also inspired many designers to name their creations after it. I love you!

LoL, Sandra

Anouk hooded belted quilted ski jacket by Fusalp

Anouk Audacious Sheer Matte Lipstick by Nars

Anouk woven textured-leather clutch by Akris

Anouk sling-back pumps by Gianvito Rossi

Anouk leather tote bag by Tsatsas

Anouk sandals by Saint Laurent

Anouk small textured-leather tote by Oroton

Anouk cotton-jersey track pants by Ernest Leoty

Anouk pumps by Jimmy Choo

14kt gold-plated Anouk heart locket necklace by Sasha Samuel

 Photos: Courtesy of the Brands, © Sandra Bauknecht
DISCLOSURE: We may earn commission from links on this page, but I only recommend products I love. Promise. 

Easter greetings from Italy! The luxury label Dolce & Gabbana has collaborated with the traditional Sicilian bakery Fiasconaro and is providing you for Easter brunch with a sweet-smelling and exquisite pastry. This so-called «La Colomba Pasquale» is a counterpart to the popular festive Christmas panettoni. A modern take on the traditional recipe, they come in three different variations and make every festive table look special … a bit like vacation in Italy.

The «Colomba Pasquale» is the dove of peace, which is traditionally baked in Italy for Easter. It is not only a symbol of peace and rebirth, but also stands for traditional craftsmanship, family and the typical flavors of the south. Since a handmade Colomba has become rare, the «Colomba Pasquale» from the Sicilian Pasticceria Fiasconaro, which has been run as a family business since the 1950s, is something truly special.

The natural sourdough is refined with fresh ingredients and is known for its incomparable lightness and seductive fragrance. The Dolce & Gabbana by Fiasconaro edition is available in three versions: Colomba with Sicilian almonds and candied orange, Colomba with Sicilian chocolate and wild strawberry jam and the classic Colomba with Sicilian chocolate.

The exquisite eye-catching tins come in a typical Dolce & Gabbana print that has taken inspiration from the fine china of Delft, with its deep contrasting hues of blue against a porcelain-white background. The tins alone make for a most impressive gift, worth keeping long after the contents has been consumed.

In Switzerland available at Jelmoli and Globus, or online. Happy Easter!

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © Dolce & Gabbana and © Sandra Bauknecht

Just smile – Easter weekend is calling and the sun is out. Blue jeans and a white tee are always a good idea and I love them in combination with my favorite spring cardigan, for which Stella McCartney asked artist and friend Jeff Koons to create the artwork for «K is for Kindness» in her #StellaAtoZ series, and the message is spread loud and clear on the back of this cardigan. The perfect remedy for gloomy days and a must-have for for eternal optimists, it’s knitted with cheerful intarsia of a natural landscape reminding you to smile.

My look: Kind intarsia wool and cotton-blend cardigan by Stella McCartney, white cotton cropped top (Look 44 Pre-collection Summer 2021), and AirPods Pro case in white, both by CHANEL, high rise straight jeans with embellishments by Dolce & Gabbana, iPhone cover in blue ostrich leather by The Collector, and Lady Bug 100 patent leather pumps by Christian Louboutin.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © David Biedert Photography
The photos were taken inside the fumoir at Gstaad Palace Hotel.
DISCLOSURE: We may earn commission from links on this page, but I only recommend products I love. Promise.

Today, on April 1st, 2021, the fourth drop of the Prada Timecapsule new series, dedicated to knitwear, will be launched on prada.com – at 3pm CET – for 24 hours only. Prada Timecapsule is an exclusive product drop of 50 items, occurring once a month, each first Thursday.

For this new drop, Prada Timecapsule presents a modernist sweater, combining jacquard patterns from Prada archive with a sportswear-inspired maxi triangle inlay. The Prada logo is reinterpreted on the front of the item and the triangle with the drop date stands out on the back.

TECHNICAL DETAILS
Jacquard pattern – Unisex fit with a vintage inspired silhouette – Ribbed collar – Regular shoulder – Ribbed cuffs and hem – Jacquard logo. Made In Italy. Price: € 1.200.

Next drop will be Thursday, May 6th, 2021.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © Prada

In the second collaboration between the Swiss watchmaking manufacture and the brilliant American artist Shepard Fairey, HUBLOT presents the Classic Fusion Chronograph Shepard Fairey timepiece. A veritable titanium sculpture to be worn on the wrist, it symbolises the natural cycles of life and the unity between different cultures.

Hublot is staying true to its motto «Be the first, be unique, be different» by deepening its commitment to its «Hublot Loves Art» programme. After unveiling new collaborations with artists Takashi Murakami and Richard Orlinski, Hublot is today presenting its third watchmaking work of art of the year, the Classic Fusion Chronograph Shepard Fairey.

As its name indicates, it has been designed by American artist Shepard Fairey. Painter, graphic designer, DJ, illustrator, street artist, skateboarder and founder of the OBEY Clothing company, Fairey – also known by his pseudonym Obey – is probably the most politically influential artist of his generation. His works include the famous «Obama Hope» poster, an iconic image from Barak Obama’s electoral campaign in 2008, as well as the piece entitled «Liberté, égalité, fraternité» which he created as a symbol of hope for France after the 2015 terrorist attacks.

His works are on show in the world’s most prestigious museums such as the Smithsonian in Washington, Los Angeles County Museum of Art, the MoMa in New York, and the Victoria and Albert Museum in London, to name but a few. He has been a Hublot ambassador since 2018.

Hublot and Shepard Fairey chose a watch from the Classic Fusion collection as the basis for their second collaboration. On this piece, the American artist, greatly involved in the project, chose to bring to life a piece symbolising a mandala, an ornamental symbol whose origins can be traced back simultaneously to several cultures across the planet. The mandala represents harmony, the cycle of life and the elements, as well as the precious nature of time in the mind. Here, this pattern is brushed and engraved into the titanium, the material used to create the bezel and the 45-mm diameter case. This work continues on the dial, which has also been finely cut to reveal the self-winding chronograph movement, a calibre HUB1155 offering a power reserve of 42 hours. In the centre, the hands display Fairey’s signature «Star Gear» mark. Fitted on a lined black rubber strap, the black stainless steel deployant buckle is also brushed.

The Hublot Classic Fusion Chronograph Shepard Fairey timepiece is available now as a limited edition in the Hublot e-shop and boutiques. Hublot and Shepard Fairey have agreed that this timepiece will help to raise funds for Amnesty International, an NGO formed of over 10 million people in 150 countries, which campaigns to put an end to human rights violations, in accordance with the theme of global harmony represented by the design engraved on the watch.

Price: € 21.700 – Limited Edition of 50 Pieces

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © Hublot

Hello beautiful weather! Time to put on some fun pieces. Do you know what shibori and macramé are? My beautiful and super comfy jumpsuit is printed with a Japanese shibori – inspired pattern.  Shibori (from the verb root «shiboru» – «to wring, squeeze or press») is a Japanese manual tie-dyeing technique, which produces a number of different patterns on fabric. Macramé is a crafting technique that uses knots to create various textiles as seen on my bag and shoes. I love the combination of both beautiful craftsmanships and hope you will like it too!

My look: Hesper floral print jumpsuit by Ulla Johnson, navy multi espadrille small shell-charm macramé tote bag by Altuzarra, chain-embellished macramé and leather pumps by Bottega Veneta, crystal-embellished cat-eye acetate sunglasses by Saint Laurent, Mitza ring by Dior Fine Jewellery, metal glass pearls leather earrings by CHANEL (Cruise 2020), and Royal Oak 37mm 18-karat frosted rose gold watch by Audemars Piguet.

LoL, Sandra

 Photos: © Sandra Bauknecht
DISCLOSURE: We may earn commission from links on this page, but I only recommend products I love. Promise. 

To celebrate the 100th year of the N°5 perfume’s fame, Patrice Leguéreau, Director of the CHANEL Fine Jewelry Creation Studio, has imagined the «Collection N°5», the first High Jewelry collection ever to be dedicated to a perfume.

A first in the history of High Jewelry, this collection showcases all the facets of a perfume, interpreting the eternal mystery of the N°5 perfume with virtuosity. From the bottle to the sillage, one hundred and twenty-three extraordinary pieces express the different facets of the perfume. With its hundred years of fame, only a perfume as mysterious and iconic as the N°5 perfume could inspire such a majestic High Jewelry collection.

In 1921, the first «perfume for women with the scent of a woman» composed by Ernest Beaux and Gabrielle Chanel made a commotion. With the absolute modernity of the fragrance, the purity of the bottle and the mystery of the name, the N°5 perfume was nothing short of a revolution. In 1932, Mademoiselle shattered the codes of French High Jewelry with her one and only collection in platinum and diamonds. These «Bijoux de Diamants» introduced new ways of wearing and took jewelry into another realm… that of allure. In 2021, Patrice Leguéreau decided to bring these two domains together with the «Collection N°5».

«Gabrielle Chanel approached these two universes with the same visionary values, focusing on audacity and the quest for excellence. I wanted to rediscover that creative gesture with this collection, which has been conceived like a journey through the meanderings of the N°5 perfume’s soul, from the architecture of the bottle to the olfactive explosion of the fragrance.»

The zenith of this precious collection is the extraordinary 55.55 necklace that expresses all the codes of the fragrance which radiate through an exceptional gemstone crafted in its honour, a 55.55-carat custom-cut diamond.

«This is an unprecedented approach» observes Patrice Leguéreau. «We started with a rough diamond that we had cut, not to make the biggest stone possible, but to obtain a perfect octagonal diamond weighing 55.55 carats.»

The harmonious shape, in an emerald cut, the symbolic weight of 55.55 carats, the D Flawless quality of this stone and the 18-carat white gold bezel set with 104 round diamonds and 42 baguette diamonds testify to CHANEL’s perfectionism and exceptional levels of creation and technical mastery. The profile of the stopper, the silhouette of the bottle, the fastener shaped like the lucky number, and the cascading of pear-shaped diamonds in different sizes, cut one by one, mould this piece into an ultimate tribute to the perfume.

Figurative as much as it is abstract, the 55.55 necklace goes further than an exercise in style. It symbolizes the embrace between the spirit of the N°5 perfume and the most exceptional jewelry making. With an incomparable suppleness, this fascinating and eternal item of jewelry adds its own stone to the story of CHANEL’s first perfume, which has become a myth.

But the tale does not stop here because CHANEL has chosen to keep the necklace 55.55 in its Patrimoine. Thus, this extraordinary piece will forever be a part of the history of CHANEL’s High Jewelry and the symbol of the unbreakable ties that unite place Vendôme with the N°5 perfume.

Stunning, beautiful – an iconic piece that has already made history.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © CHANEL