CHANEL Mademoiselle Privé Pique-Aiguilles Honours Couture Crafts

An essential dressmaking tool, the pincushion has sparked the creative vision for CHANEL’s new Mademoiselle Privé Pique-Aiguilles watch collection.

A dome-shaped pincushion on a metal cuff was ubiquitous on the hand of Gabrielle Chanel as she worked in her rue Cambon ateliers. For Arnaud Chastaingt, director of the CHANEL Watchmaking Creation Studio, this practical piece inspired a novel wristwatch concept.

“I’m fascinated by the design of objects whose architecture is the product of a practical need,” Chastaingt says. “In terms of style, the pincushion commands authority on the wrist, with presence and impact.” 

The resulting Mademoiselle Privé Pique-Aiguilles watch collection features five models, each drawing on one aspect of intricate craftsmanship.

“I dreamed of this creation as a blank canvas for the most audacious Métiers d’art,” Chastaingt says. 

All five of the collection’s models share a simple and elegant black strap and an oversized black and gold dial that offers abundant space for creative expression. 

The Pearls Motif watch showcases the effect of jewels strewn over black tweed—hand-sculpted gold necklaces, chains, and Byzantine brooches, all arranged on a textured backdrop. The Lace Motif watch is defined by a lacework of camellias created through hand engraving, Grand Feu enamel, and decal techniques. 

The Tweed Motif watch features a snapshot of a tweed jacket with a miniature sculpted golden thimble, scissors, and tape measure alongside diamonds and gold chain trim. The Embroidery Motif watch features black-coated white gold set with diamonds and gold beads evoking sequin embroidery. 

Finally, the Quilted Motif watch showcases five iconic CHANEL bags, all engraved with gold and mother-of-pearl for a quilted effect.