Calf Hair Shoulder Bag: Smells Like French Spirit

Jér?me Dreyfuss is a wild card (off-the-wall pockets on the “Bandit,” a beard-like fringe a la the “Lucien”), but there’s a common denominator: you can always rely on his bags to have a nonchalant appeal. Especially when they are toned-down and mellow, like the “Albert.”The Parisian designer flaunts his accidentally chic aesthetic – tres French – on this luxe shoulder bag. That’s luxe without trying too hard, to be clear (because there’s nothing chic about that!). A mix of deep brown calf hair and brushed leather makes for a sense of mystery, while leather zipper pulls add touches of scruff. With contrast bronze-yellow stitching and a hardware-heavy adjustable strap, this is the weekend casual bag for the coolest girl you know – the one who knows it’s deeply chic to lean a little grunge. On Net-a-Porter for $1,180.Pair with: Sling this over your shoulder and welcome the slouch, whether it’s via a boyfriend’s sweater or a thinly knit cashmere T-shirt. But a loose-fitted, printed dress, like Collette by Collette Dinnigan‘s embroidered cotton voile, lets you in on the grunge joke. On Net-a-Porter for $340.

Chloé on Net-a-Porter: Hear it Here First!

Bag Snob exclusive! Hitting Net-a-Porter this morning is a new crop of Chloé satchels – seven new styles, to be exact. Think mild updates on their enduring classics. The “Darla” and “Marcie” have both gotten more streamlined re-vamps. While the plum “Darla” is nothing revolutionary to the house, (although this wine color is one we’re bound to see a lot of this fall), its shoulder bag-to-crossbody option makes it an easy, everyday option. However, it’s the new version of the “Marcie” that I’m really loving. The saddlebag-gone-chic style, one we have seen Chloé do countless times, looks incredibly fresh with smooth lambskin. With a simple flap closure and subtle all-over rivets, it exudes vintage flavor. So hop on Net-a-Porter first thing in the morning to get first dibs!

Matthew Williamson Embellished Satin Clutch: Party Favor

There are the bags we buy out of necessity, the ones we know will eventually get creased and worn in and eventually pass their prime. This is not one of those bags. Matthew Williamson’s embellished clutch would most certainly fall into the category of the goody bag, a fun and frivolous party topper you purchase to lift your spirits and uplift your cocktail wardrobe.Bright blue satin (it almost has a periwinkle tint) with a pewter metal frame and absolutely covered in sequins and beads reads like a portable jewel box. With a crisp, matching blue lining it’s cheerful; with a small chain-strap option it’s feasible for a night out. An ornate Art-Deco design like this, thrown off with a modern clasp, is a throwback to hedonistic days of another era, like the cocktail-drenched Roaring Twenties. On Net-a-Porter for $1,610.Pair with: Now is not the time to shy away from sparkle. Go decadent with the “Scala” mini-dress by Rachel Gilbert, a beaded silk rendition on the flapper classic. On Net-a-Porter for $1,100.

Proenza Schouler “Book Bag”: Rational Desire

If there were one bag out there to be deemed perfect for all my needs, this would be it. Proenza Schouler’s satchel, fresh out of their Fall 2011 line, has it all. I’m not messing around anymore: I am strictly a shoulder bag girl now. I love the function, and I require organization. This has all that in spades, as well as a ridiculous amount of style.It’s got the cool and whimscal ease of a half-hazard strap with a buckle down the middle and the convenience of a pouch under the simple flap – such a luxury, the accessible front pocket. With tailored leather and neutral hardware, varying textures and a splash of fresh color – the whole thing makes me swoon, but in a totally sensible way. It’s bags like these I actually buy, the ones packed with practicality that fits into my real life and stirs up excitement that entices my senses. So, what more could you want in a bag? Well, one that actually exists. Barneys will have a variation of this bag that’s smaller and sans the front pocket under the flap. What!?!? I need to talk to their buyer. The not-as-good version available at Barneys in September for $1,595.Pair with: I plan to wear this bag with just about everything (as soon as I can get my hands on it!), but a pair of platform hiking boots by Ala?a would radiate surprising chic. Spotty printed calf-hair and a lug sole put a whole new spin on an already perfect satchel. On Net-a-Porter for $2,220.

Bag Snob Exclusive: Shop Lena Erziak At 15% Off

Is it a bag? Is it a sweatshirt? Are those up-stretched arms or a shoulder strap? Is that a crewneck or bag opening? Only Martin Margiela can make such normally easy distinctions so confusing. Maybe because the answer is: it’s both and all the above. I almost expect the head of a person to be poking out of this MM6 satchel.While I can appreciate the comedic novelty, it can’t be denied – this is one ugly-looking bag. It’s not even flattering as an actual sweatshirt! The pouched bottom hem makes it look like this entity is sporting a food baby. The only genius here is that Margiela managed to make the sweatshirt look sloppier than before. A garment that should be confined to off-days around the house and an awkward tote bag that shouldn’t have left the design studio. On Ssense for $240.

Lena Erziak is launching their E-Commerce online shop! There are many addictive styles!? I have the Sean in the same leopard print pony hair as this Paolo seen here and I can’t even tell you how many times I get stopped on the street.? From today, August 9th to Tuesday, August 16, Bag Snob readers will get 15% off your purchase + an exclusive lottery Giveaway* from LenaErziakShop.com exclusively for Snob Readers for a limited time.? To get your exclusive 15% discount, use Coupon Code: LELUVSBS15.The piece to get at this great discount is the Luciano.? A brilliantly designed carry on that looks like a luxe tote, but with wheels!!? Oh, I must have it or I will certainly die!!? With so many trips planned, this is more of an essential than an extravagance.? Originally $1840, it is now $1564.*Every Bag Snob reader who subscribes to LenaErziakShop.com (all you have to do is sign up!) is entered for a chance to be the lucky winner of a Paolo in Leopard Ponyhair, worth $475.Kourtney Kardashian wearing the Paolo in Leopard

Salvatore Ferragamo Python “Ember” Clutch: Hot Embers

How cool is the “Ember” clutch from Salvatore Ferragamo’s Fall 2011 runway collection? A showing of strictly black, white, and shades of gray – laden with checks, magnified houndstooth, and pinstripes – has never looked so good. And the bags are just as strong as the high-power suits. Not only is the design of this clutch sleek and modern, the Prince-of-Wales-checked python skin (from wild or farmed python, depending on the season) is utterly innovative.When I first spotted this bag, I was perplexed by the glossy, graphic texture – I asked my sales assistant a whole lot of questions because I love discovering new ways of using python skins! It’s been chrome tanned and set with an aniline finish, giving it that mysteriously luxe, high-shine quality. Trimmed with Ferragamo’s signature palladio hardware (notice the brilliant asymmetry of the tips), this envelope is a minimal silhouette with maximum style. Take a cue from the runway show: wear it with classic red nails and double – or triple! – up on your colorless houndstooth. For $1,950 at Ferragamo Dallas, call my SA Raul Serrano — 214-234-0596 (he will help you with anything you need, and things you didn’t know you needed!)

Céline “Trapeze” Bag: Gorgeous Enough to Inspire Acrobatics

If Céline‘s Luggage tote is the edgy answer to the Birkin, then the Trapeze is the Kelly’s more flamboyant counterpart. Single-handled with a large, sure-of-itself flap, it’s more streamlined and elegant than the Luggage, which, while appealing, verges on the cluttered side. Not the Trapeze. It has the foundation of a traditional tote – the classic square-ish shape and simple clasp on a foldover closure – but clearly, this bag is anything but traditional.With fanned-out sides (that may be tucked in for an even more sleek silhouette), so distinctive in their bold direction and flared shape, it’s both uncomplicated and totally wild. In light-catching calfskin leather, winter-divine calfskin and shearling, irresistible python, and crocodile-embossed (plus, in two sizes), it’s going to be a tough call to choose just one. It’s swinging, it’s shapely, and since it definitely has the potential to put conventional tote bags to shame, it might inspire a Céline revolution (not that there’s not one in progress already!). I feel a major obsession coming on…For $1,800 at Colette (in crocodile-embossed) and By George in Austin, Texas.

Thakoon for Somalia Scarf

One of my favorite designers has just added philanthropist to his growing list of titles. 100% of proceeds from Thakoon‘s limited edition checkered red/blue scarf will go towards the Somalia famine relief efforts. Yes you read that correctly, 100% of proceeds, not just a measly 10 or 20%, Thakoon means business and he needs you to help! $250 to sleep better at night knowing you made some sort of contribution, it’s worth every penny! Not to mention this scarf will instantly update your wardrobe for fall!I ordered Thakoon’s cobalt gathered front tunic (below) hot off the runway from Thakoon’s F/W 2011 collection a few months ago, the scarf will be perfect for casual days when I want to wear it with distressed jeans. I am buying this scarf as you read this, shopping with a chic purpose, isn’t that the best way to do it?Buy Thakoon for Somalia scarf here!

Missoni for Target: Get Ziggy with it

The largest designer collaboration from Target to date, Missoni for Target boasts over 400 items ranging from bags/luggage to rain gear (I have a slight obsession for the rainboots and umbrella!), ready to wear and accessories for women/men/girls/babies to furniture/housewares, plus a $399 bicycle!? If you don’t recognize Missoni’s iconic signature zig zag prints and patterns, you will after September 13th when the line debuts at Target nationwide and Target.? The Twister carry on luggage is also on top of my to-buy list, I’ll have to set my alarm clock to make sure I get one online before they sell out!It’s an interesting move on the part of the Italian luxury brand, but also a smart one.? Why wait for mass production to produce items “inspired” by your designs when you can join in the fun and giggle all the way to the bank!? This makes me ponder, who next?? Bottega?? Hermes?? Ok, so that’s just wishful thinking on my part but stranger things have happened!? What about you?? What brand do you want to see at Target next?Prices will run from $2.99 to $599.99, with most items less than $40, Missoni for Target will be available Sept. 13 through Oct. 22, 2011 at all Target stores and Target. Pending availability, select pieces from the collection, including a variety of online-only items, will be available for an extended run through early December at Target Images courtesy of Target

Pierre Hardy: Piping Hot

Five years ago I fell in love with Pierre Hardy’s soft suede bags trimmed in patent leather piping but could not join the party because the bags were too huge for me to carry.? I am a big fan of the designer (he also designs Hermes shoes!) so it was quite a disappointment!? Flash forward to 2011 and the softly structured suede bags are back, better than ever, in a smaller size no less!? With top handle, optional cross body strap, and updated back patch pocket, you have all the original Pierre Hardy elements with a few new tweaks!? It comes in several colors but I prefer the contrasted burgundy with navy suede piping– the colors jump out at you not to mention it is THE perfect bag for your jeans this season.? Get burgundy with navy suede piping and/or navy suede with black patent piping for $1,050 at Net-a-porter

Mulberry “Alexa” and “Tillie” Satchels: Mulberry Plays the Wild Card

Take a strong foundation – or at the very least, a classic one: simple foldover messenger style with two buckled straps, a pert top-handle, a roomy, almost unstructured body – and you have a bag you can makeover (and over) with wicked skin and texture combinations, so it doesn’t get tired. Mulberry’s two prominent big bag styles – the ubiquitous “Alexa” ($3,000) and the “Tillie,” ($1,825) a variation with skewed proportions (bigger body, smaller buckle straps) – have been refreshed and revived.Tiger-print pony-skin and embossed leather suit the “Alexa” well. But it’s the detail of contrast spots peeking out from beneath the front flap that make this pumped-up and youthful. This is just the wild-child metamorphosis the bag needed to keep me from getting sick of seeing it! If the cool girl on the block is carrying this tricked out version of the “Alexa,” then the oversized “Tillie” is great for the glamorous rebel’s chic BFF. Chestnut snake-embossed calfskin is a fine match for metallic bronze trim and gleaming gold hardware. Neutral day bags don’t have to be boring!

Valentino Shoulder Bag: Rustic Leather Strikes Gold

Valentino has a way of jazzing up just about anything. Usually they do it with bows, embellishments, and appliqués; clearly, they are thinking progressively at the moment. Disco-chic mesh juxtaposed against casual luggage leather certainly seems like a strange combo, but they’ve just proven it works. Think urban surfari, for the girl who needs a bag with tough-enough leather to take a minor beating but won’t sacrifice her penchant for the forwardly glamorous.Putting the “glam mesh” only on a single side of the bag (leaving the other unadorned, save a Valentino’s plaque and textured skin) is the right choice for this well-sized (12” by 7”) shoulder bag. Adjustable straps, along with a convenient front pocket, give a nod to your practical side. Boxy yet soft, this offbeat amalgam is a winner – I even came close to taking it home with me. Perhaps rugged chestnut leather is just the thing shiny gold chain mail needs to look sleek and modern, rather than a blast from the retro-past. At Valentino for $1,795.Call?(214-750-5707) or e-mail Justin?at Valentino to order.Pair with: A little leopard is necessary when exploring the urban jungle. Tory Burch‘s spotted calf-hair “Jude” pumps, with slick gold heel embellishments, are high-glam for a Frugal Snob price. ?On Net-a-Porter for $325.

Sequoia Yearling Shoulder Bags: The Year of the Yearling

Twenty-two-year old Parisian brand Sequoia is founded on friendship – designer Daniel Sisso met Pierre Hardy shortly after deciding he wanted to change the way women carry bags. It looks like it was meant to be! They both had the desire to create a “fashion handbag” – one functional and useful – and Hardy remains the creative director of the brand.For Fall 2011, they have new line of messenger bag with comfort in mind – and convenience (they all have three interior pockets). The Yearling shoulder bags, one with a flap and one even more paired-down, caught both Kelly’s and my attention immediately. Inspired by horse saddles, the big silver ring punctuates the perfectly minimal bags. Especially in deep plum – so rich-looking with zero logo. Just the signature Sequoia buckle, set off by your choice of soft suede or smooth leather. This is a true everyday bag (I say go for buttery suede – it will end up conforming to your body) that you will use year-round.Yearling Flat Shoulder Tote Bag at Sequoia Paris for $303-$355.Yearling Shoulder Bag at Sequoia Paris for $362-$424.

Paco Rabanne Le 69 Iconic Shoulder Bag: More is More

I was thrilled by the re-release of Paco Rabanne’s iconic bags back in early spring – the launching of his Le 69 chain-metal handbag, in collaboration with Comme des Gar?ons, was a thrill. The heavy-metal little bag looked just as modern in 2011 as it did around the time of Woodstock (long before my time!). But I may have just been reminded that there is, indeed, too much of a good thing. This re-edition of the original has been set in glossy calfskin (lovely) and doused in metal charms by Judy Blame. Buttons and coins and safety pins – oh, my! It’s accessories galore, to the point where you can hardly recognize the actual bag. While there is some charm in the fringe-like adornments – just think about them moving and clinking as you strut down the street! – and they announce your playful, winky side, they hinder the inherent beauty of such a unique bag. And let’s not even get into the astronomical price tag! What say you: snob or slob? On Luisa Via Roma for $10,400.

Adriana Castro Maria Clutch: A Cross(body) to Bear

Who says you should spend your night out with a bag glued to your hand? I’ll do backflips for a beautiful clutch, but more and more, I can’t resist a great crossbody bag. Especially for evening! Sarah Jessica Parker set off a crossbody evening bag trend last season, slinging a VBH sueded python bag over a lacey gown, and she couldn’t have looked cooler. The mother of three likes her hands free, and so do we!Just in time for fall’s upcoming crop of cocktail parties, a hot metallic crossbody that will go with everything. From Adriana Castro’s Fall 2011 collection, she brings us a most useful clutch with a convertible body strap! The shiny python Maria bag, a classic mild envelope shape, comes in two equally neutral colors: Old Copper and Black Micropoint (my personal winner). With suede lining, dimensions of a little over 5” tall by 8” wide, and a hidden magnetic closure, it’s easy access and comfortable storage. The python strap is detachable – but when a crossbody bag looks and feels this good, why would you even want to mess with it? At Adriana Castro for $875.Pair with: Highlight the Maria’s metallic glimmer with an opulently jewel-toned silk charmeuse dress. Jenni Kayne’s bias scoop style, in dark garnet, is uncomplicated – begging for accessories and some crossbody action. On ShopBop for $650.

Top Fall Whites: The Fairest of the Seasons

No white after Labor Day? Oh, please! Rules are made to be broken, and that especially goes for the supposed laws of fashion. Even acclaimed fashion writer Valerie Steele says, “Very rarely is there actually a functional reason for a fashion rule.” Of course there isn’t! It’s all about aesthetics – so if you like white, wear it and do it justice. The reality is white can feel a whole lot fresher when the weather is crisp. A bright white bag will brighten the dreariest of days, not to mention perk up your wool blazers and knit cardigans.Fendi Peek-a-Boo Regular Python Top Handle: The correct mix of slouch and structure makes this a white bag worthy of cooler temperatures. Half-metal frame and half-hobo, you get the pristine feel of white leather, along with a deep, dark surprise of burgundy snake-stamped calfskin. On Luisa Via Roma for $3,613.Ragazze Ornamentali Porte Tresor Porte Valeur Shoulder Bag: The sleek and discreet bag line produces a simplistic shoulder bag worthy of every season. Buffalo skin makes for a surprisingly sumptuous texture and their trademark jewel-like chain-link strap makes for endless appeal. On Luisa Via Roma for $1,153.Proenza Schouler PS1 Large Leather Bag: Just try staying away from the PS1! It’s a battle you’re sure to lose. We’ve seen the messenger bag in every color under the sun, yet somehow pure white puts a new spin on the modern classic. At Barneys New York for $1,995.Stella McCartney Falabella Chain-Trim Shoulder Bag: While McCartney has come this-close to exhausting her once-coveted Falabella chain-trimmed satchels, a woven white canvas changes everything. With whipstiching holding the metal links, this cotton bag takes on a deeply organic quality. At Neiman Marcus for $935.Happy Labor Day Weekend everyone, and keep those white pants out– they look fabulous layered under black and red.

NYFW Bag Prediction

Tomorrow is the first official day of New York Fashion Week and just as excited as seeing the new collections, is dissecting what some of the world’s most stylish women will be toting! Without a doubt we’ll be seeing a ton of Celine, Proenza Schouler, Alexander Wang, and some Chloe. I’m at some type of fashion or beauty related event almost every day and these consistently rank among the designer bags I see most often, but aside from the predicable I have a strong feeling we’ll be seeing a number of editors, stylists, and the likes opting for 3.1 Phillip Lim‘s Pashli Satchel ($895, pictured above) and Tory Burch‘s 797 Satchel ($625, pictured below). I haven’t seen the 797 Satchel in person yet, but it was designed in celebration of Tory’s new Madison Avenue flagship, which opens tomorrow, so I’ll be checking it out during Fashion’s Night Out (it’s sold exclusively online and in the designer’s namesake stores). From photos it looks super convenient and has flexibility with the removable cross-body strap. I’m also loving the visual interest that the textured leather adds to this somewhat vintage-looking bag. It comes in a few color and material options…definitely contemplating getting one.Equally chic is Phillip Lim’s Pashli, which I’ve already seen a few editors sporting at recent events (it also comes in a variety of colors). It’s super-chic and what you can’t see from the image above is that the zippers open creating an instantly roomier bag…perfect for Fashion Week!

Victoria Beckham Spring 2012 Collection: Victoria’s True Love

Guests were asked to arrive early this morning for the Victoria Beckham show to observe the 9/11 9:59 and 10:03 silences. As promised, we were seated right on time. Emotions ran high in darkened Astor Hall of the New York Public Library, as we sat motionless in perfect silence.Then music and models took the stage, Beckham’s strong show opening with dressing possessing a decidedly different vibe from her previous collections. The Spring-Summer season marks a potent sportswear influence (the theme shown through slick, shiny caps, scrunched leather leggings and touches of thick utilitarian straps), and Beckham’s take is streamlined with a clean silhouette. Sculpted drop-waist dresses will be adored by the tall and lean, but it was the extensive line of bags paraded in front of me that tantalized my eyes and captivated my attention.From massive shopper tucked nonchalantly under models’ arms to box clutches punctuated with chains and leather straps, it’s clear where Victoria’s heart really is: BAGS! In smooth, color-blocked calfskin and luscious matte crocodile, each powerful detail proved her passion for satchels.Just how good are Victoria Beckham Spring 2012 bags, you ask?! Céline and Hermès good. Yeah, I’m calling it, and I’ll put my money where my mouth is because I’m buying them as soon as I can!Photo Credit: Vogue

Snob Worthy Links September 13, 2011

See by Chloe RTW Winter 2011 Shows Off The Best of Cold-Weather Prints & Patterns on TheFind.For Zac Posen, it’s all about the waist. Almost each one of the cocktail-ready suits and red carpet-appropriate dresses shown in his Spring 2012 collection at Couture Snob had a nipped-in waist that suggested some boning beneath the fabric. FabSugar‘s Celeb Spotting at New York Fashion Week!This month, Le Metier de Beaute will debut its skincare line at Bergdorf Goodman and Neiman Marcus. Like all Metier products, the Anti-Aging Treatment collection is chicly packaged in glossy black lacquered tubes and jars and Beauty Snob had a chance to review it!Online Sample Sale Round Up: Valentino, Christian Dior and More at The Budget Fashionista.If you love the lace look of Bottega Veneta‘s Lace Ankle Boots but don’t want to commit to something that is not as versatile as you’d like, consider these Alice + Olivia calfhair booties at Shoe Snob. The Fashion Spot is covering New York Fashion Week!Audi Q7: The Ultimate Mommy Snobmobile at Tot Snob!Red Carpet Fashion Awards has Kirsten Dunst In Prada & Chanel – “Melancholia” Toronto Film Festival Premiere.

Oscar de la Renta Spring 2012 Collection: Take a Walk on the Wild Side

This spring, Oscar’s lady has gotten a little bit…wild. That’s right. Something has gotten in to his proper girl about town, perhaps a new joie de vivre. Whatever it is, it has kinked (even slightly frizzed) her hair, tempted her to layer and keep layering on the beads, and let her gown part in a most explosive fashion. While she took a walk on the adventurous side, Pink Floyd detonated in the background and feathers, silk, and flashes of skin proved to be the focus of the day. And, gasp! She even wears white socks with her high heels!So how did Oscar, always the gentleman, keep his crochet- and ruffling-loving night owl in check? Courtesy of a finely tailored selection of bags by de la Renta’s new design team (with experience at Céline, no less). Petite structured clutches, in precious skins and metal-frames, fit neatly into models’ hands, while voluminous structured top-handles were shoved haphazardly into their hands or dangled casually. Round-meets-rectangular shoulder bags, in luxe leathers and shining crocodile, imbued Oscar’s need for true polish. He has made his point: what’s a lady without a little tramp?Dallas readers are in for a special treat. I’ll be packing these bags and taking them back to Dallas with me for a preview party on September 22nd. Please save the date!

Buttons? Why, yes please. Bright red patent leather? I thought you’d never ask. This bag may not be on everyone’s favorites list, but it sure is on mine. The Milly Sophia Resin-Chain Bag is just plain fun. It comes in crimson (pictured), black and chocolate and has a chain shoulder strap that weaves through the top flap. This bag just reminds me of back to school time. The buttons, the newsie shape, the large flap, even the side pocket makes me want to throw some pencils in it and skip off to my first day of….. class. And when I say class, I mean study hall. This bag would be perfect for those first chilly fall days when you want to be in something snuggly. Grab this fall favorite, throw on some DSQUARED2 soft dark jeans and a Son of John braid sweater, grab a pumpkin spice latte and soak up the season. Bergdorf’s for $395

A Vision of Love

If you know me, you know I’m not a fan of fur bags. If you really know me, then you know I’m full of contradictions, too. Enter the Nina Ricci Vision shoulder bag: it is simple, gorgeous, and the ideal small scale for a completely fur carryall. Most importantly, it’s as sleek and flat as a fur bag can be, so it’s not ridiculously fluffy (which is why most furry satchels look so absurd). Nina Ricci has done mink right by designing it just like their lovely silk pouchette with irregular tiers for streamlined texture. A knotted leather strap, touch of grosgrain ribbon, and turn-lock closure keep it grounded. And I’m even willing to bet this fur is not wasteful; I’m sure it’s up-cycled (a euphemism for “made from scraps”) because the price is not outrageous for luxurious gray mink. The perfect intersection of design and pragmatism. If you love the lavishness of fur for everything you wear – but don’t aim to look like your toting your kid’s most beloved stuffed animal or the family bunny rabbit around town – this is your ticket to everyday luxury. At Barneys New York for $3,590.Pair with: Creamy pale gray and lush cherry red is an eye-popping combination. Meadham Kirchhoff’s Dolly coat, a feminine double-breasted off-the-runway look, is made of fine Linton Tweed, for an old-world feel. On Net-a-Porter for $2,440.

Reed Krakoff Boxer Bag: So Glad I Gave It a Fighting Chance

When I initially saw photos of Reed Krakoff’s best-known bag style, I wasn’t inclined to jump on the Boxer bandwagon. Now that we’ve met, I have to tell you: the photos do not do it justice. The instant you pick up a Boxer, you’ll know what I mean.All those opposing straps and panels make it look complicated, but that’s no accident: the genius of the design lies in the elaborate complexity! This tri-colored, multi-material tote is surprisingly lightweight with endless functionalities. You cannot tell from the photos that the entire front-flap lifts up to reveal a hidden pocket; then look inside this structured top-handle: multiple interior pockets to keep you organized. And did I mention how lightweight the leather is?!With all the mixed-and-matched options, selecting a Boxer is a personal experience. Choose among cool white canvas and leather, neutral-toned leather, shearling and toasted brown leather, metallic anthracite, black calf hair,or suede and wool-felt. Of course, I’m partial to reptiles: the mix of the “Art Boxer” ($1,300 above and below) in bleached bridle, canvas and ayer snake is amazing (and mine!)!.

The most basic of the three casino games is dice

The most basic of the three casino games is dice. The lower right side window has two 1.5mm wide die that have been perfectly miniaturized. Just shake the watch and see whether they land. Perfect for craps or some seedy back alley dice toss game (just don't bet your watch). For me, I am gonna use em to roll a saving throw for my 10th level Fighter Mage. I am interested to know exactly how these tiny dice were made.

On the back of the watch is a roulette wheel. It is actually part of the automatic winding mechanism in the in-house made and designed Christophe Claret Calibre BLJ08 (which co-host John Biggs and I made famous in episode 58 of the HourTime Show podcast). The automatic movement has a frequency of 28,800 bph and a power reserve of 72 hours. It is made of 501 components and the discs for the blackjack game are done in solid gold on ceramic ball bearings (for low friction). Don't forget, it tells the time too.

The roulette wheel spins as it is the automatic rotor, but here is a little different. The rotor has a minor stop mechanism to stop to a halt in one of the fixed positions when it loses momentum. This causes the little arrow (versus a ball) to stop at a specific spot on the roulette wheel scale. Don't miss the set green emerald on the rear of the case above 17 between the engraved "Lucky Number" statement. I guess 17 is someone's lucky number. I think the roulette wheel detailing is gorgeous, and Claret's integration of it with the automatic winding system is not only efficient, but also clever.

Christophe Claret 21 Blackjack Watch Revealed

A new video just released by Christophe Claret finally shows the entire upcoming 21 Blackjack watch - and it is in full action. So I should probably take this opportunity to debut the watch to you. You are gonna love this one. This latest wild wonder watch by master watch maker Christophe Claret is imbued with three different casino games, and you can play blackjack with it, as the watch as the dealer. It also lets you play roulette and dice.

I first wrote about the Christophe Claret 21 Blackjack watch here with more information on just how excited you should be (and why you can't likely afford it). Now for the full scoop. Once I get my hands on it I will get your minds dirty with Christophe Claret watch porn. The 21 Blackjack is the third watch to bear the Christophe Claret name - as his past involved being the "inside guy," making movement for other brands. First was the Dual Tow from 2010, then the Adagio from 2011, and now the 21 Blackjack also for 2011. The spectacular "gamer's" watch will be part of a limited edition of 21 per version set, and have a six figure price (that specifically is below).

When Claret does something, he does it his way. You can also hear Casino voice favorite Frank Sinatra singing in the background as you watch this timepiece operate and image Claret at the watch makers desk. This watch is a toy, a game for big boys, and a masterpiece among Claret's micro mechanical and manufacturing achievements. How cool are those hands edged in synthetic ruby?

Blackjack is amazing and Christophe Claret really delivers on his promises

In addition to the blackjack game complication the watch has two other games. The roulette game is linked to the automatic rotor. Rather than just a free spinning rotor, it has a little stepped system that has it stop in little notches. As you can see, a small ball is attached to the wheel as it moves around and will stop precisely in front of one of the numbers. The detailing here is also very impressive and you can only see it when you take off the watch. There is another interesting element back here - see the small emerald that says "lucky number?"

Christophe Claret includes a tool that you can use to move a ring on the back of the watch with the emerald on it. This allows you to point the precious stone next to your own lucky number on the roulette wheel. Works perfectly as long as your lucky number isn't higher than 36.

In addition to the blackjack game complication the watch has two other games. The roulette game is linked to the automatic rotor. Rather than just a free spinning rotor, it has a little stepped system that has it stop in little notches. As you can see, a small ball is attached to the wheel as it moves around and will stop precisely in front of one of the numbers. The detailing here is also very impressive and you can only see it when you take off the watch. There is another interesting element back here - see the small emerald that says "lucky number?"

Christophe Claret includes a tool that you can use to move a ring on the back of the watch with the emerald on it. This allows you to point the precious stone next to your own lucky number on the roulette wheel. Works perfectly as long as your lucky number isn't higher than 36.