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In 1987, Chanel forever altered the landscape of women’s timepieces with the unveiling of the Première watch, a design that rewrote outdated narratives about what a women’s watch could be. Now, 35 years later, Chanel revisits this icon with the Première Cuff, a boldly elegant triumph of both design and craftsmanship.
A marvel of modernity, the Première Cuff is a limited-edition creation from the Maison. As many would instantly recognise, its octagonal dial is a subtle nod to one of Chanel’s most enduring symbols: the stopper of the legendary No. 5 fragrance bottle. Famously taking its shape from the iconic geometry of the Place Vendôme in the heart of Paris, a landmark intrinsically linked to Chanel’s history—Place Vendôme being the home of both Chanel’s flagship and the famed Ritz hotel, where founder Gabrielle ‘Coco’ Chanel lived for 34 years. Spending most of her time here, it’s only natural that the house’s timepieces should pay homage to this eternal reference. But what makes this watch truly unique is its audacious bracelet. Evoking the most recognisable bag strap in the world, the intertwined leather and steel chain takes inspiration from Chanel’s 2.55 flap bag, while its rows flank the dial and snake around the wrist like the streets surrounding the Place Vendôme atelier.
Continuing this momentum of innovation, the French luxuriate has expanded its Première stable with pieces conceived for the timeless aesthete. Forged with the DNA of the Première Édition Originale, the Première Sautoir Belt subverts traditional ways of wearing with its adjustable, belt-like chain, designed to cinch the wrist or waist with a luxurious ease. And for the modern Chanel woman, the Première Sound Watch Necklace offers a marriage of technology and style where not all is as it seems. What at first glance appears as a piece of jewellery is actually a sleek black audio cable woven into its 18-karat gold chain, featuring a headphone jack that connects to your smartphone, allowing you to switch seamlessly between time and sound.
The Première watch collection is not just a celebration of Chanel’s groundbreaking foray into horology but a testament to the Maison’s ability to fuse form and function with style. More than three decades later, the Première collection continues to lead the way in watchmaking, proving that style and substance are always right on time.
EXPLORE THE CHANEL PREMIÈRE COLLECTION HERE.
TOP IMAGE: PHOTOGRAPHY: TAREK MAWAD, HAIR: EDUARDO BRAVO, MAKEUP: AURELIE DEHECQ, LIGHTING ASSISTANT: SANTIAGO HENDRIX, MODEL: LOUISE LEVEQUE AT WOMEN 360.
