Sandra‘s Closet

A REBELLIOUS COLLECTION IN ACID-BRIGHT COLOURS

Richard Mille has bitten into a juicy new realm of graphic, emotional and chromatic expression. The so-called Bonbon Collection comprises 10 models, each produced in an edition of 30 pieces.

Together, they articulate a sweet and tangy new vision of watchmaking. Composed of candies, pastries and fruit, these 10 horological treats once again subvert existing conventions, habits and expectations. Drawing on avowed expertise in the area of materials, colour and form, Richard Mille has taken the lid off a candy jar to reveal two kinds of confections for the wrist. Based on three of the brand’s iconic models, the RM 07-03, RM 16-01 and RM 37-01 offer a passage back to childhood with the simple pleasure of slightly regressive and thoroughly tasty memories, to be enjoyed without moderation.

‘The idea was to revisit the existing collections while playing with colour. This allowed me to bring out a pop-inspired sense of fun. In all, we developed a palette of 60 colours for this unisex collection,’ explained Cécile Guenat, artistic director for the collection.

Foretaste

Despite its disruptive appearance, the Richard Mille Bonbon Collection is directly descended from earlier Richard Mille creations. Take colour—the brand is continuously expanding its range. Forays into the spectrum of greens, crimson, yellow and even pink are possible thanks to a mastery of materials, many of them exclusive, that is a Richard Mille specialty. The brand’s understanding of how tinted ceramics behave, expertise in layering materials like Carbon TPT® and Quartz TPT® and constant improvements to the setting of coloured gemstones are all ingredients in these confectionary recipes, which are singularly imaginative, playful, distinctive and, most importantly, appetising. Lastly, a finely honed eye for detail makes these 10 models stunning graphic compositions that offer a wealth of shades and textures appearing in every component of the watch. The crowns and some of the caseband, for instance, take the shape of a particular treat, such as a cupcake or gelato.

Great delights

The Sweets collection comprises four models, all with two-tone ceramic cases that set off their grand feu enamel or black-chromed titanium confections. The RM 07-03 Cupcake, RM 07-03 Marshmallow, RM 37-01 Sucette and RM 16-01 Réglisse are colourful and delectable, evoking a whole spectrum of flavours. Better yet, the textures you expect to encounter upon biting into these sweets are conjured visually thanks to a mastery of enamelwork that succeeds in evoking sensations like softness, crunchiness, and fluffiness. The creamy quality of the TZP ceramic case is enhanced by the varied matt and polished effects of elements on the dial. Black, a foundational colour in the technical vocabulary of Richard Mille, is presented in a whole new light here, as a giant roll of liquorice that occupies the entire surface of a dial. Here, the most satisfactory solution for obtaining the liquorice shape of the RM 16-01 was a stamping operation, followed by a black chrome coating that lends this piece its spot-on colour and texture.

Tiny treats

The Fruit line is a homage to the very concept of sweet temptation in six delectable flavours: Lemon and Strawberry (RM 16-01 Citron et Fraise), Blueberry and Litchi (RM 07-03 Myrtille et Litchi), Kiwi and Cherry (RM 37-01 Kiwi et Cerise). In addition to colour-gradient cases made of Carbon TPT® combined with Quartz TPT® of a different hue for each model is an all-new turquoise colour. Painted in acrylics and lacquered by hand, the 3,000 miniature sculptures integrated in these compositions stand out from the dials, turning each one into a sachet full of tiny candies. To further enhance their realism, a ‘sugar coating’ effect was achieved using powdered enamel and the fine sand employed in hourglasses. Tart jelly ribbons, twisty lollipops, candy citrus segments, gumdrops and other surprises are positioned on plates of grade 5 titanium that are machined and skeletonised like horological components.

Regressive pleasures

From velvety marshmallow or custard cream to the crunch of hard candies and lollipops and tangy tartness of citrus quarters… Applying the science of materials and textures to the realm of confectionary, Richard Mille has embarked on a vast collection of delicious and powerfully evocative pieces. Whether in the Sweet or Fruit line, every watch in the Bonbon Collection is mouth-wateringly appetising, and promises a moment of horological extasy.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: Courtesy of Richard Mille and © Sandra Bauknecht 

Hello from New York Fashion Week that has officially kicked off last night with the highly acclaimed amfAR Gala. The black tie event honors individuals who have made outstanding contributions to the fight against HIV/AIDS. It starts with a cocktail reception, followed by a seated dinner (don’t come for the food, it was horrendous), a live auction of luxury items, musical performances, and a special tribute to amFAR’s honorees.

Wearing Balmain at the amFAR 2019 Gala in NYC.

My favorite encounter of the night: Milla Jovovich, such a sweetheart!

This year, the foundation for AIDS and HIV research was honoring actress Milla Jovovich, auctioneer Simon de Pury and photographers Mert Alas and Marcus Piggott.

Heidi Klum with me

Since 1998, the amfAR Gala New York has become one of the city’s most successful and high-profile AIDS benefit events and consistently attracts some of the biggest names in entertainment, fashion, art, and AIDS advocacy. With that said, last night was no different: Kim Kardashian, Kourtney Kardashian, as well as supermodels Heidi Klum, Lily Aldridge, Alessandra Ambrosio and Karolina Kurkova, were present among others.

Heidi came with two girls from her casting show «Germany’s Next Topmodel»: Cäcilia (18) and Vanessa (21). The first episode aired today but did we already see the winner here?

The Chainsmokers live on stage.

The amfAR Gala culminated with a performance by The Chainsmokers. Talk about a star-studded event! Below you can enjoy more impressions of the night…

LoL, Sandra

The gorgeous event location at Cipriani Wall Street.

With my beloved Tiffany Dowd of Luxe Tiffany.

My favorite auction piece: a photograph of Kate Moss shot by Mert Alas and Marcus Piggott went for $100.000 thanks to Karen Elson’s and Simon de Pury’s great performance.

With Kevin Frost, CEO amFAR

Photos: © amFAR (in collages) – all others: © Sandra Bauknecht

When you cry ‘wolf ’, it appears on the dial of the new Arceau Awooooo ! watch. Crafted in enamel, the silver-furred animal stands out against a starstudded backdrop featuring a slim moon crescent. This miniature scene is beautifully framed by a white gold case and a matte graphite alligator strap.

A new character in the bestiary designed by Alice Shirley, the Arceau watch now calls “Awooooo!” with its motif initially created for a line of men’s scarves. The fascinating yet feared white wolf of myths and fairy stories emerges from the woods, gloriously wild and depicted in miniature on an enamel-painted dial.

In reproducing the refined original design, the wolf and its star-studded background spring to life by dint of meticulous workmanship. The artisan crafts both sides of the transparent white enamel dial, then carefully polishes it to achieve a perfectly smooth surface. The outlines of the motif are then traced and, using an extremely fine brush, various enamel powders are applied mixed with natural oils. Then come several successive stages of coatings, interspersed with drying and firing in the oven, before the painting takes shape in all its magnificent realism.

Using a graphic style and subtle shades of grey, the animal is shown in its natural, essentially nocturnal way of life. A starry night and a slim moon crescent also evoke the cycle of nature, within which the predator plays an essential role. The overall tone matches the white gold case, whose round shape topped by stirrup-shaped lugs houses a Manufacture Hermès movement.

Fitted with a matte graphite alligator strap, its classic design imagined 40 years ago by Henri d’Origny accentuates the elegance of this eight-piece limited edition.

TECHNICAL CHARACTERISTICS
Numbered limited edition of 8
DIAL
White gold base enamelled using the miniature painting technique.
Awooooo motif from a Hermès scarf designed by the artist Alice Shirley
CASE
Round, 41 mm in diameter in 750 white gold (≈ 52 g)
Anti-glare sapphire crystal and case-back / Water-resistant to 3 bar
21 mm interhorn width
STRAP
Matte graphite alligator with a 750 white gold pin buckle (≈ 5.34 g), 17 mm
MOVEMENT
Manufacture Hermès H1837 movement/ Mechanical self-winding, Swiss made
26 mm in diameter, 3.7 mm thick / 28,800 vibrations per hour (4 Hz)
50-hour power reserve / Circular-grained and snailed mainplate
Bridges and oscillating weight satin-brushed and adorned with a sprinkling of Hs,
Hermès Paris engraving.
FUNCTIONS
Hours, minutes

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © Hermès / David Marchon

Chinese New Year officially begins today on February 5th, 2019, and ends on February 19th. Also known as the «Spring Festival» in modern Mainland China, it is the country’s most important traditional festival and beginning of a new Chinese animal zodiac cycle: the year of the Pig.

Those born during the Chinese zodiac year of the pig are pleasant, polite and have good taste. They are perfectionists that appreciate the most beautiful things, they help others and are great companions as long as you don’t cross them, so be careful! They are smart, always on the search for knowledge and exclusivity. Unfortunately, pig years are also believed to be the most unlucky for people born in previous years of the Pig.

Prada presents Prada Wonderland, a new and exclusive pop-up installation at the prestigious Galaxy Macau, open until 10 March 2019 on the occasion of the Chinese New Year celebrations.

 Luxury brands are all on board for Lunar New Year. The festivities rank high in China – a market where consumers still pay full price for expensive wares. According to a report by Bain & Company, China represents «32% of the global luxury consumption.»

Here are the best limited edition collections by the big names of the luxury industry to celebrate Chinese New Year:

DODO
This new limited edition piglet charm is just too cute. For a limited time only, you can shop the pig-shaped pendant in 18kt yellow gold and red enamel with black cord included.

DIESEL
To celebrate the Chinese Lunar New Year, Diesel introduces a 9-piece premium limited edition capsule collection that is sold globally.

MOSCHINO
Porky Pig and Petunia Pig are the stars of a fun and glamorous limited edition, created especially for one of the most important traditional Chinese festivities.

LANVIN
For the S/S 2019 Pre-Collection, Lanvin is paying tribute to the Lunar New Year with an exclusive capsule collection. Lanvin is celebrating the year of the pig, a cute and curvaceous mascot, with a selection of lucky charm accessories adorned with «pig» embroidery studded with dazzling jewels, perfect for gifting and collecting alike.

GUCCI
The Italian fashion house celebrates the Year of the Pig with a special collection of ready-to-wear and accessories featuring three playful designs including a print of Walt Disney’s cartoon characters, the ‘Three Little Pigs’. Shot by Frank Lebon, a special editorial shoot features tiny piglets with their human friends captured inside richly decorated apartments and walking the streets of New York City.

LOUIS VUITTON
Inspired by the Chinese zodiac, the Superstition square features these twelve symbols playfully illustrated with iconic House motifs. The center is decorated with a large LV Circle, layered over Monogram Flowers and surrounded by the creatures.

MARNI
The small piglet, symbol of the new Marni Capsule Collection, comes from an imaginary universe dedicated to the Chinese New Year: a range of accessories for her and a new original version of Big Foot sneakers pay homage to the twelfth protagonist of the Chinese horoscope, as well as the sign’s cheerful and dreamy character.

PANERAI
For the Chinese Year of the Pig, Panerai presents an 88-piece limited edition Luminor Sealand. The cover is hand-decorated by master engravers using the sparsello technique.

VACHERON CONSTANTIN
For its Métiers d’Art The Legend of the Chinese Zodiac – Year of the Pig Watch in 18K Pink Gold, the Swiss watchmaker uses enameling, gems-setting and other artistic aspects of watchmaking.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: Courtesy of the Brands

Getaways are good for the soul – and with JO MALONE‘s Vitamin E Travel Kit in tow, they’re also good for your skin. Soften, soothe and help protect with four cult classics: the revitalising Body Treatment Scrub (30ml), the nourishing Body Balm (30ml), the hydrating Hand Treatment (30ml) and the Restorative Gel (3ml). All just the right size for taking with you, wherever you go.

Vitamin E Travel Kit CHF 79.-

Available for a limited time only. In Switzerland at Jelmoli Zurich, Globus Zurich, Globus Glatt, Globus Bellevue, Globus Lucerne, Globus Geneva, Globus Lausanne and Hyazinth in Basel.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: Courtesy of @JoMaloneLondon #TimeForMe

Ready to meet your new crush?
Make the first swipe with Bobbi Brown’s NEW Crushed Liquid Lip.

The look of a liquid lipstick meets the comfortable feel of a balm and the plumped-up sheen of a gloss. Created with a superfruit blend featuring cranberry, blueberry and raspberry extracts, this emollient-rich, full-coverage formula glides on with pure color pigments and offers nourishing comfort and moisture—both instantly and over time.

Available in 14 shades from now: Smoothie Move – Hippy Shake – Lychee Baby – Peach & Quiet – Give a Fig – Juicy Date – Haute Cocoa – Main Squeeze – Cherry Crush – Cool Beets – Mango Mood – Big Apple Bitter Sweet – In a Jam

Crushed Liquid Lip CHF 32.00 each.

My advice is to double the crush! Use the new Crushed Liquid Lip together with Bobbi’s Crushed Lip Colour. Two irresistible formulas to fall for – because one Crushed Lip is never enough…

Great for testing: Mini Crushed Lip Color Kit.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: Courtesy of Bobbi Brown
#CrushedLiquidLip #BobbiBrownCH #Agency_Q

The must-have accessory for summer is definitely a lust-worthy pair of espadrilles. This S/S 2019 season, you can combine it with the most amazing tote bags that get an update by being set on an espadrille-style woven and rubber base.

Below are this season’s prettiest styles designed by the most coveted designers, shop the pieces ahead to add the finishing touch to your sunny-day look.

LoL, Sandra

Espadrille striped suede tote bag by Altuzarra

Espadrille suede tote bag by Altuzarra

Loulou Toy leather and jute-trimmed quilted printed cotton shoulder bag by Saint Laurent

Gate leather bucket bag by Loewe

Espadrille small tote bag by Altuzarra

Vintage espadrille chain shoulder bag by Chanel

Photos: Courtesy of the Brands

For the first time ever, a watchmaker has decorated a watch with the turquoise brilliance of a cuprian elbaite. Hublot has electrified its Big Bang with the naturally vibrant and intense colours of the Paraíba Tourmaline, a stone whose rarity can only be fully appreciated when learning that, on average, a single Paraíba Tourmaline is mined for every 10,000 diamonds.

With its unique colour, this stone has fascinated jewellers since it was first discovered in 1989 in the Brazilian state of Paraíba. Its rarity makes it more expensive than traditional precious stones such as diamonds, emeralds and rubies. The secret of this magnetic stone’s colour lies in its fusion of gold, manganese and copper; an incandescent glow seems to illuminate the stone from within.

Certified by the world’s largest gemmological laboratories, the Paraíba Tourmalines set into Hublot’s Big Bang are mined from the Rio Grande region of Brazil. Thanks to its long-term partnership with Pierre Salanitro, Hublot benefits from an exclusive agreement with a mine that operates in an environmentally sustainable way, and complies fully with local and international governing ethics. The mine strives to preserve the earth that yields this unique material, and is committed to reforestation of the region, only using clean water for its extraction operations to prevent soil pollution.

While the Paraíba Tourmaline is an extremely rare stone, certain cuts are more exclusive than others. One such example is the baguette cut, which requires stones of a perfectly uniform colour. This is why five times more raw material was required for the initial stone selection, and also why, when each stone was baguette-cut, only 70% of these could be set – 30% were rejected due to breakage or insufficiently uniform quality or colour. This stone, more fragile than emerald, requires considerable expertise and dexterity both to cut and to set, and the process can take up to three times longer than that for a diamond.

A blue that radiates green, a turquoise reminiscent of a blue lagoon whose depth is enhanced by sunshine, the colour of a Paraíba Tourmaline changes thanks to its extreme sensitivity to light. A watch you can’t take your eyes off, that almost invites you to dive in.

The Hublot Big Bang Paraíba is available in 4 models.

Big Bang Unico Paraíba – 45 mm
In white gold or King Gold (a Hublot alloy of 18K gold with copper and platinum), the Big Bang Unico Paraíba invites you to dive into the lucid waters of its 48 baguette-cut and 388 brilliant-cut stones. Its transparency extends to the skeletonised UNICO HUB1242 manufacture movement, whose gear trains and column wheel on the dial side are all visible.

Big Bang One Click Paraíba – 39 mm
Featuring a bezel set with 48 baguette-cut Paraíba Tourmalines, a 39-mm case adorned with 129 brilliant-cut Paraíba Tourmalines, a sunray dial picked out with 11 brilliant-cut Paraíba Tourmalines, SuperLuminova-filled hands and a patented One Click interchangeable strap in alligator sewn onto rubber, the Big Bang Paraíba radiates the turquoise hues of this rarest of stones. Available in white gold or King Gold (a Hublot alloy of 18K gold with copper and platinum), it beats to the rhythm of a HUB1710 self-winding mechanical movement with the date at 3 o’clock and a power reserve of 50 hours.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © Hublot