AMDI CHATTI The watch and jewellery vice president of Louis Vuitton on luxe timepieces and the Acte V fine jewellery collection. By Cai Mei Khoo.
Emprise earrings, Louis Vuitton Emprise ring, Louis Vuitton Embracing t the spirit of travel, the new Emprise collection seems to
take inspiration from the iconic Louis Vuitton trunk. No doubt, the Emprise watch is the quintessence of the collection’s Parisian spirit in that it’s both gra graphic and delicate. The structural elements of the trunk, its strength and solidity, are transmutedtrans into the aesthetic vocabulary, displaying a distinct femininity and forming a strong signature for a collection deeply rooted in the history of Louis Vuitton.
Are there many references to its Parisian heritage? Yes, you see it in the severe outlines and precious stone assemblies with myriad reflections that reproduce theth magnificent perspectives created in Paris by Baron Haussmann during the 19th Cent Century. Gold tassels recall the haute couture of Second Empire festivities.
Your favourite pieces from the collection? Person Personally I love the pendant, a piece that women can wear every day. What w were some other key highlights at Baselworld 2014? The EscaleE Worldtime watch. It features corner pieces reminiscent of Louis Vuitton trunks, transformed into horns that protect the case,
likeli a miniature round trunk containing a precious calibre. The EmpriseEmpr watch offers a completely different aesthetic to the Tambour.Tambou Are there plans to further develop the collection?
Yes, we plan to have the Emprise with steel case next October. It will also come out with a steel bracelet next year, paved with diamonds.
What makes the Tambour an enduring icon? It is unique. Created as a Monobloc, it is cast in one piece, strong and pure.
What is the Louis Vuitton difference? We design timepieces with innovative functions inspired by our travel heritage.
Who is the Louis Vuitton woman? A James Bond girl … In every woman there is a James Bond girl! Tell us about the new high jewellery collection, Acte V. It was presented in July during Haute Couture week in Paris. V as in the Roman numerall 5 to denote the fifth high jewellery collection presented by the Maison. In this collection, Louis Vuitton brings together extraordinary gems discovered around the world. The most stunning piece of jewellery you’ve come across? The 87.92-carat triangular Australian black opal, a pixellated gem
that is the cornerstone of the Acte V collection. Watches you personally own and wear? I am wearing a new, fresh and happy Escale Worldtime watch. With the rise of wearable technology, timepieces are seen as a luxury.
How does Louis Vuitton stay relevant? We invest in creativity and we hope to surprise our customer. Emprise watch, Louis Vuitton