Sandra‘s Closet

The PIC restaurant is reborn at Beau-Rivage Palace under the creative direction of the triple-starred chef and Hublot Ambassador Anne-Sophie Pic. It has been a 15-year-long Swiss odyssey between the hotel and the world of Anne-Sophie Pic … fifteen years of friendships, creativity, tastes, foraging, reflection, trial and error…and success.

Each step has been painstakingly mapped out in detail in her private memory-rich journals. Switzerland is one of her most beloved places, a land where she never ceases to find inspiration. Partly, this is because she is able to look back fondly at a happy childhood suffused with rich memories of family gatherings in Switzerland’s Vaud region.

The setting of the new PIC Restaurant at the Beau-Rivage Palace was imagined and shaped by the chef. It epitomizes her culinary philosophy, one that underscores her delicate and bold cuisine, which combines classic ingredients and contemporary techniques to create innovative mouthwatering dishes. Her vision was transformed into reality by architect Tristan Auer: the restaurant’s design blends classic refinement with the promise of the contemporary.

Of all the gastronomic artisans in Switzerland, it is to Chef Jordan Theurrillat that Anne-Sophie Pic has entrusted her wealth of secrets. He has been at her side for more than a decade, including five years in Lausanne. Sommelier Dominique Peretti, also a veteran of Maison Pic, is in command of food pairings with the restaurant’s magnificent wine list. Finally, in the dining room, Diane Blanch, director of the Lausanne restaurant since 2021, places the Lausanne experience at the heart of Anne-Sophie Pic’s values.

It was 15 years ago that these two august institutions linked their destinies. And now they embark on a fresh new chapter combining the very best in hospitality, excellence, and savoir-faire.

Opening of the restaurant September 5 by the evening
Tuesday to Saturday, 12 noon to 1.30pm and 6.30pm to 9.30pm

4-course menu CHF 160 / 5-course menu CHF 210
valid for lunch from Tuesday to Friday
7-course Tasting Menu CHF 330 / 8-course Tasting Menu CHF 390
valid for lunch and dinner

The hotel car park is available and free to restaurant guests.

Place du Port 17-19, CH – 1006 Lausanne
E-mail: e. , Phone: +41 21 613 33 39

I personally speaking love her restaurant in Valence, where she actually lives. It is absolutely amazing, especially her non-alcoholic pairings are outstanding, for a previous post, click here please. Therefore I am super excited to be visiting the new spot in Lausanne hopefully soon!

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © Beau-Rivage Palace, © Hublot
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Yesterday, I was invited by Valentino to an enchanting and mysterious evening. The dress code said: «Dark as Le Noir», reminiscent of the Maison’s F/W 2024 collection, for which Pierpaolo Piccioli presented pieces centered around a monochromatic black palette, exploring the depth and versatility of the color black.

The collection was marked by a sense of minimalism and elegance, focusing on silhouettes that ranged from structured to fluid. There was a mix of sharp tailoring and softer, more romantic elements, showcasing a balance between power and delicacy.  Accessories were kept minimal, allowing the garments to speak for themselves.

We started the evening at 6pm at the Valentino pop-up store located on the first floor of the Mandarin Oriental Savoy Zurich. It was very hot and I have to admit that wearing an all black F/W 2024 outfit was not the most convenient choice but this is what you do for fashion :-).

After lots of shopping, lots of bubbly, and great conversations, we left for the secret location which was the LUX am See Restaurant in Zurich. I hadn’t been there before and was curious to explore something new.

I go to many events but I have to tell you that my Valentino family is truly special. The room is simply buzzing with great energy. The team is amazing and shopping at the Valentino store is always a fun experience.

Stay tuned for the outfit post coming up soon!
 TO SHOP VALENTINO ONLINE, CLICK HERE PLEASE.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © Sandra Bauknecht
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The newly opened Mandarin Oriental Savoy Zurich got awarded the GaultMillau «Hotel des Jahres 2025 (Hotel of the Year 2025)» today and celebrated this special moment with a festive ceremony. Founded in 1838, this iconic property, the oldest grand hotel in the city, is the latest addition to Mandarin Oriental’s collection of award-winning hotels.

With the Orsini team from left to right: Antonio Guida, Dario Moresco, and Gianmarco D’Alonzo.

Benjamin Halat, Executive Chef, and the culinary masterminds of the hotel’s Orsini restaurant, Antonio Guida and Dario Moresco, were all rewarded for their outstanding gourmet performances.

When food becomes art …

The morning started with lots of culinary treats on the rooftop terrace, followed by the award ceremony in the ballroom. After that we enjoyed a wonderful luncheon in the Brasserie restaurant. Antonia Guida’s signature dish, tan amazing raspberry risotto with sage and herbal cream, was followed by a Breton sole with lobster and zucchini flower.

With General Manager Dominik G. Reiner and his wife Angela.

The dessert was served on the rooftop terrace again. It was a wonderful way to start the week. General Manager Dominik G. Reiner and his team are doing an outstanding job to make guests feel welcomed from the first moment they step foot into this beautiful hotel that is located in prime location on Paradeplatz square.

With Marco-Antonio Diemer, Director of Marketing and Commercial Strategy Mandarin Oriental Savoy Zurich

With the «King of Chocolate» Ernst Tanner

With my Valentino ladies, Shang Wei Huang and Gianfranca Addis. 

Until November 2024, the Valentino suite will be located on the first floor of the hotel.

Great surprise … one of my favorite illustrators, Kera Till @keratill had flown in from Munich for the event. What a beautiful memory of this day!

Thank you Mandarin Oriental Savoy Zurich for having me!

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © Sandra Bauknecht / Sarah Vonesch Photography
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Balenciaga opens a new 367-square meter store in Zurich, its first Swiss flagship. The space, located in the historic Schweizerische Volksbank building, offers the latest in Balenciaga’s men’s and women’s ready-to-wear, shoe, bag, accessory, eyewear, and jewelry collections, plus exclusives.

BALENCIAGA
Bahnhofstrasse 53
8001 Zurich / Switzerland
Phone: +41447973180

Opening Hours:
Monday: 10:00 – 19:00
Tuesday: 10:00 – 19:00
Wednesday: 10:00 – 19:00
Thursday: 10:00 – 19:00
Friday: 10:00 – 19:00
Saturday: 10:00 – 18:00
Sunday: Closed

You can book an appointment here.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © Balenciaga
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After my crazy traveling, I came back to Zurich to attend a special event at «The Nest» of the Hotel Storchen as Hublot and Andreas Caminada’s castle of Schauenstein celebrate 20 years with the special edition Big Bang Unico All Black Schloss Schauenstein. For this occasion, Hublot CEO Ricardo Guadalupe and friends of the brand, such as retired cross-country skier Dario Cologna, who won four overall World Cup victories, and four Olympic gold medals, Swiss World Cup alpine ski racer Corinne Suter, and profi golfer Joel Girrbach came to Zurich.

With Hublot CEO Ricardo Guadalupe

The Art of Gastronomy 

Blending meticulous expertise and a passion for fine artistry with time, gourmet cuisine and Haute Horlogerie share essential elements. Precise timing is vital for chefs, from ordering to plating up on the pass and through to service. This shared mentality has intertwined Hublot with the world of gastronomy. Hublot admires haute cuisine and those who convey their savoir-faire onto their dishes, skillfully fusing ingredients to create uniqueness while staying authentic. This connection has fostered remarkable partnerships and, notably, the iconic Big Bang Unico Gourmet watch. 

Final touch by 3 Michelin stars chef Andreas Caminada.

This expansive universe continues to evolve, illuminating new opportunities to explore the bond between Hublot and a chef, starting in 2017 with the one and only Andreas Caminada. 

Big Bang Unico All Black Schloss Schauenstein

A Tale of Fusion 

The story of the Big Bang Unico All Black Schloss Schauenstein goes all the way back to 2004 when Hublot redefined luxury watchmaking with the concept of «The Art of Fusion,» blending traditional craftsmanship with avant-garde materials. Around the same time, Andreas Caminada took his culinary odyssey to new heights, taking over the historic Schauenstein castle, earning him prestigious Michelin stars for his innovative cuisine. 

With Andreas Caminada

Over the past two decades, both Hublot and Andreas Caminada have personified the art of individuality in  their respective fields. Hublot’s groundbreaking creations, including the iconic Big Bang and Classic Fusion lines, mirrored Caminada’s unrelenting pursuit of perfection and culinary artistry at the castle. This shared dedication naturally led to an inevitable partnership in 2017, when the 3 Michelin Stars chef joined the Hublot Family as a brand ambassador. Since then, Caminada has garnered numerous acclaims, including the Sustainable Restaurant Award, and continues to amaze with each passing year. Collaborating in events such as the Art of Fusion Night in 2019 alongside Hublot, this culinary maestro consistently reinvents the fine dining experience, remaining true to Art of Fusion ethos. This relationship culminates in a collaborative celebratory watch, the perfect tribute to such a talent. 

The Schauenstein Castle is located in the village of Fürstenau, known as the smallest city in the world, in Switzerland’s Grisons canton. This captivating setting exudes a timeless allure and embodies the cherished ‘Swissness Attitude’ valued by Hublot. Within the acclaimed triple Michelin-starred restaurant, Chef Caminada immerses guests in an exploration of culinary awakening, echoing Hublot’s philosophy of perpetual exploration in crafting extraordinary pieces. 

Gorgeous location for the launch event: The view from «The Nest» of the Hotel Storchen.

In honor of the 20-year jubilee of the Schauenstein castle and of Caminada’s culinary prowess, Hublot unveils its new Big Bang Unico All Black Schloss Schauenstein, underscoring its commitment to distinction and support for the best in their fields. 

Sporting the new beauty on my wrist. I love the size of the 42mm case.

As the watch’s name suggests, the concept revolves around the color black, highly prominent throughout the various features of the timepiece, a design philosophy inspired by Andreas Caminada’s looks and reflecting Hublot’s desire to explore ‘invisible visibility’ in high fashion style. The watch features a 42mm microblasted black ceramic case, offering a sleek, modern aesthetic, with black plated H-shaped polished and microblasted titanium screws and a satin-finished black plated titanium with black rubber crown. The bezel, made of satin-finished black plated titanium with black rubber inserts, complemented by the satined and microblasted black plated titanium pushers, add depth and texture to the design. The sapphire crystal with anti-reflective treatment ensures optimal visibility. Additionally, the microblasted black ceramic case back is engraved with a depiction of Schauenstein’s castle in shimmering silver tones. 

Elevating the watch, the matte black dial serves as a canvas for the applied silver-toned logo of Andreas Caminada on the small seconds counter, reflecting the spirit of culinary fineness. The black plated satin-finished titanium hands provide striking contrast against the dial, emphasizing legibility and style. 

At the heart of the Big Bang Unico All Black Schloss Schauenstein beats the in-house Hublot HUB1280 self-winding chronograph movement. Introduced in 2010 as the first movement designed by the manufacture, the Unico calibre saw refinement in 2018 with the launch of the 1280 reference, a slimmer iteration tailored to a broader range of wrists, used in this new release in collaboration with chef Caminada. 

With super sweet Corinne Suter

The watch proudly exhibits its inner workings with a skeletonized dial, offering a glimpse of the column wheel automatic winding mechanism that orchestrates its chronograph functions, and a date at 3 o’clock. Boasting a 72-hour power reserve and enhanced accuracy, it incorporates five patents for facilitated assembly, modernized architecture, and increased performance. The Unico 2 calibre offers a sleek 42-mm case and notable technical developments, including gentler winding, faultless chronograph display, and exceptional shock resistance, further emphasizing the best for the best with this limited edition. 

The Big Bang Unico All Black Schloss Schauenstein comes in a presentation case complete with a black ceramic and black titanium deployant buckle clasp on the black lined rubber strap. Each watch is accompanied by a signed booklet by Andreas Caminada, a custom-engraved knife, and a knife block, reflecting Caminada’s passion for precision and authenticity in watchmaking and gastronomy. 

Limited to just 20 pieces, each watch is a symbol of exclusivity and craftsmanship. The price is set at CHF 25,900 or EUR 29,600.

LoL, Sandra

With Dario Cologna

With Lucy Tallo, owner of PRticular

Profi golfer Joel Girrbach

Photos: ©Hublot Dominik Orth –  Instagram @orthart , © Sandra Bauknecht
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You know the expression a match made in heaven. As a fashion collector, who has curated high-end fashion items for over 30 years, I like to observe the secondary market and follow auctions very closely. When I was approached by Sotheby’s, the prestigious auction house, for a collaborative venture at the new Sotheby’s Salon at Bucherer on Bahnhofstrasse 50 in Zurich, I was immediately drawn to this idea.

Within the Zurich flagship store of Bucherer, located on the third floor, the salon is the first ever permanent ultra luxury retail destination by an auction house worldwide. Offering an amazing selection of high-end items, including luxury fashion, jewelry, art, fine spirits and collectibles, the salon provides a bespoke and exclusive environment for clients to browse and acquire rare and valuable pieces. This venue enhances the traditional auction experience by offering a more personalized and intimate setting, appealing to discerning collectors and enthusiasts who seek exceptional items with a high level of service and expertise.

In love with this white diamond solitaire ring, 12.16 carat, D colour, VS1, with GIA certificate, price upon request.

Lots of treasures in the by now section.

The new «buy now» concept is also allowing collectors to buy at fixed price from a permanent curated selection of watches, jewelry, leather goods, fine wines, fine art and more. Overseeing the Salon will be representatives from Sotheby’s, each well-versed in their specialisms and in the products on sale – the selection of which will be influenced by the demands of the highly knowledgeable clientele and collectors to be found in this region. On top, from time to time, pieces that will go into an auction will be on display.

Fine wines and spirits are also part of the offering, as Jessica Graf, Deputy Director Sotheby’s Sales Manager Switzerland, explained to me.

So what prompted this remarkable joint venture? Both venerable businesses, Sotheby’s and Bucherer can indeed also be seen as a match made in heaven, particularly in the world of luxury and high-end collectibles as their partnership combines Sotheby’s expertise in auctioning and marketing rare and valuable items with Bucherer’s deep knowledge and prestigious reputation in the watch and jewelry market. However, the Salon is solely managed by the Sotheby’s team.

Three objects of desire on display for the auction: Shadow, Himalaya, and Faubourg Birkin.

Once you exit the elevator and enter the Salon, you might think you have landed in heaven. Nowhere else you can find such an outstanding collection of limited edition and hard-to-get handbags from Hermès or CHANEL that you can actually buy on the spot. The Sotheby’s sales team makes sure that all pieces are new or in immaculate condition. Furthermore, they have also a dedicated department that will help you source any piece you like to have.

How gorgeous are these yellow diamond pear shape earrings please?! 25.31 carat fancy deep yellow, VS1, 25.33 carat fancy brownish Yellow, VVS1, 4.8 carat white diamonds, H-I, with GIA certificates, price upon request.

Client relationship plays a huge part in this new retail concept. Therefore the Sotheby’s Salon also hosts exclusive events ranging from sealed auctions, fashion events to wine and spirit tastings in the Caveau, which features library vintages and bottles, usually reserved for long-term clients. Of course, events aside, it is the curation of products on sale that will be the main attraction – and it promises to be nothing if not varied.

If you are invested in selling a piece yourself, you can meet with a Sotheby’s specialist to receive valuations of your items and consign directly for sale at auction, retail, or private sale. Sotheby’s will take a 20% commission on the sale which I find absolutely fair.

Big smile as investing in fashion was a good thing to do …

Connoisseur or collector, you will love this new retail concept where dreams will come true and you will find your match made in heaven.

LoL, Sandra

Landed in shopping heaven …

… spoilt for choice!

On display and in Sandra’s Closet: the Hermès Constance Marble bag.

Watches are also part of the selection …

… as well as art.

Photos: © Sandra Bauknecht / Sanjeev Velmurugan
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This week, I was invited to a special dinner at ORSINI in Zurich which is part of the newly opened Mandarin Oriental. Delivering exceptional Italian fine dining with authentic flavors in an intimate and sophisticated setting, it is led by award-winning Consultant Chef Antonio Guida, who was in town that night with his team.

Having previously won two-Michelin stars for Seta at Mandarin Oriental, Milan, Guida has brought his unique talent to Zurich. Renowned for boundary-pushing culinary creations, Chef Guida’s authentic Italian dishes burst with flavour and ingenuity.

With hand-made porcelain art installation by artist Livia Marin, ORSINI invites you to appreciate the heritage of the Italian region whilst enjoying the unforgettable menu. Located in one of Zurich’s most historic buildings, ORSINI offers the perfect backdrop for a fabulous dining experience.

CAPASANTA
Lukewarm scallop with buffalo mozzarella cream, marinated cedar fruit and oyster sauce

RISOTTO
Risotto with raspberries, sage and herb cream

POLLO
Gruyère chicken with asparagus, Senise pepper puree and liver mousse

AMAZAKE MOUSSE
Amazake rice with rhubarb

Lunch
12 – 2pm (Tuesday – Saturday)
Dinner
6:30 – 9:30pm (Tuesday – Saturday)
Phone:  +41 435 883 888
Email: mozrh-

Enjoy the essence of Italian cuisine at ORSINI.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © Sandra Bauknecht
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Caran d’Ache unveils «Kawaii Sweetness», a new online creative course with Geneva based artist, freelance children’s illustrator and graphic designer Katia De Conti. Mix and layer textures and colours using Gouache paints and Neocolor™ II pastels. This workshop offers enthusiasts the opportunity to discover the basics of the kawaii style, which originated in Japan.

Discover all the secrets of bringing objects to life by transforming them into cute characters (Kawaii in Japanese) using illustrative methods that are both simple and fun. In this class, Katia will take you step by step through the key principles of the Kawaii style and encourage your personal expression. Arm yourself with your Neocolor™ II gouache and wax pastels, and let yourself be guided into the sweet and colourful world of Katia’s studio. The creative online course «Kawaii Sweetness» is available on the Creative Class platform. For more information and to register, visit creativeclass.carandache.com.

Creative Class: An International Creative Hub
Since its launch in June 2023, Creative Class has attracted many colour enthusiasts. With online creative classes available in 3 languages (French, German, and English), Creative Class caters to hobbyists and enthusiasts by offering various online workshops led by illustrators, teachers, or artists. It offers a relaxed and accessible approach for those who wish to enjoy a moment of relaxation and unleash their creativity. This new course continues Caran d’Ache’s commitment to inspire and cultivate creativity for all generations.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © Caran d’Ache
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When you want to live the good life, I recommend a stay at the Carlton St. Moritz and a fun dinner at the Fondue Gondola Pop-Up directly in front of the hotel with a spectacular view over the lake and the Engadin mountains.

My look: GG Supreme cropped hooded jacket, double G jacquard striped scarf, and small Horsebit Chain shoulder bag, all by Gucci, necklace by Alessandra Rich, black and silver jumpsuit (Look 3 Coco Neige Collection 23/24), shearling high boot with logo (F/W 2021), and square sunglasses with heart mirrors at the side, all by CHANEL.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © Sandra Bauknecht
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Being back in St. Moritz is always fun! Especially if some amazing things are happening in the Engadin mountains. Moncler hosted a star-studded show in the snowy woods and it was also the start of the 117th edition of the International Horse Races this weekend.

Photo: @alex_lambrechts

The so-called White Turf, which has been held annually since 1907, is a top-class event: it combines exciting horse racing, fine catering, attractive music and art performances set against a unique mountain backdrop on the frozen Lake St. Moritz. In 2010, I reported for the first time about it. If you are curious, click here for the previous post.

Giving interviews …

In 2024, the event will take place on 4, 11 and 18 February and is expected to attract 30,000 visitors from all over the world. The St. Moritz Racing Club is behind the organisation, while the main sponsors are UBS, Genesis and DC Aviation Group.

The weekend was fantastic. Crisp blue skies, and lots of sunshine were the perfect backdrop to enjoy the first race Sunday with over 45 horses from four countries competing in the three disciplines of galloping, trotting and skikjöring on the frozen Lake St. Moritz. However, the temperatures were almost too warm and due to the lack of precipitation throughout the previous week, the racecourse had also to be covered with artificial snow.

For families, I recommend the White Turf Family Days which take place on the Saturdays before the races – 3, 10 and 17 February – to celebrate young racing talent. The programme includes pony, trotting and flat races as well as mounted UBS Kids Skikjöring and duathlon competitions.

I wore head to toe DiorAlps (for the details, click here please).

In case you are wondering about the dress code, the more glam the better. Fur is seen everywhere (however, lots of fake fur in comparison to previous years), even on the dogs of the attending high society. If you are not into horses, you will still enjoy the scenery and watching people on the frozen lake. An event in Switzerland not to be missed!

Tickets for White Turf St. Moritz 2024 are available online here.
The VIP packages are almost sold out.

Below you can enjoy some more impressions… I ended the beautiful day with drinks at the new Grace hotel.

LoL, Sandra

With hat designer Fabienne Breederland @fabienne_breederland, who designed a special «White Turf» edition, that I am wearing in the photo.

With my friend Jasmin Brunner @jazbrunner, who has her own cashmere brand that is available at Jelmoli.

Having fun with Annakarina Goldkind @goldkind_annakarina.

My dear friend and colleague Jorge Guerreiro @jorge_jsbg_guerreiro and our lovely host Tina Seiler of Oppenheim & Partner at the after party.

With artist Ginny Litscher @ginnylitscher, who designed a special artwork for the White Turf, and event sponsor Irene Franco @ifra77 of Genesis Europe.

With Jorge and champagne expert Dan Roznov @champagnespy, who took my favorite photo of me at the event below.

Photos: © Sandra Bauknecht and Courtesy of The White Turf
DISCLOSURE: We may earn commission from links on this page, but I only recommend products I love. Promise! #whiteturf #horseracing #skikjöring #stmoritz #winners