Chanel Première steel - 1990s

Sporty and iconic

Description

The Chanel Première is a real jewel on the wrist. The most classic version would surely be the one with the steel and leather strap. This one, without the leather strap, insists on the play between sharp edges on the case and curves on the bracelet.

The absence of leather lightens the bracelet, making it more flexible and pleasant to wear. Of course the precious and classic place Vendome shaped glass is kept, but the bracelet gives the whole watch a slightly more "casual sport" style than the classic model.

With its faceted glass on which the light is reflected (much like a diamond) and the light bracelet this watch is a real jewel that tells the time.

How to wear it?

This Chanel Première, inspired by the architecture of Place Vendôme, perfectly embodies Parisian elegance: subtlety and discretion. The use of steel makes it an everyday watch that Françoise pairs very easily with jeans and a t-shirt as well as a “little black dress” à la Gabrielle Chanel.

Why did Françoise choose it?

This precious but casual, slightly sporty but classic design seduced Françoise. Altough Françoise offered some Première in white gold, platinum, diamonds... on leather straps, this all-steel version brought something different, more casual while remaining very elegant. The edges of the case are the same and yet it has the advantage of being a much more accessible and comfortable model.

History

This watch was imagined by Jacques Helleu and launched in 1987. Taking up the visual codes introduced by Gabrielle Chanel, La Chanel Première has an innovative design inspired by the lines of the N°5 perfume and the outline of Place Vendome. Through its lines and the facets of its sapphire crystal, the Première breaks with the codes of traditional watchmaking. It was such a success that Chanel dedicated its own boutique for it on rue Montaigne in Paris. Only available in three references when it was launched, the model would be the first watch imagined exclusively for women by Chanel.