News

Articles, Events, News

Met Gala 2026: Where Fashion Meets Time

By
Met Gala 2026: Where Fashion Meets Time

The first Monday in May once again transformed The Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York into the world’s most watched event.

The 2026 Met Gala, held on May 4, celebrated the Costume Institute’s spring exhibition, Costume Art, with the dress code Fashion Is Art. This year’s edition explored the relationship between clothing, the body, and artistic expression, turning the Met steps into a living gallery of sculpture, movement, and performance.

MET GALA | FASHION AS A LIVING CANVA

Among the evening’s most memorable interpretations of the theme, Emma Chamberlain transformed the red carpet into a moving canvas in a custom Mugler gown, inspired by the maison’s 1997 La Chimère ensemble. Heidi Klum took a more theatrical approach, appearing as a living sculpture in a marble-like ensemble that fully embraced the idea of fashion as performance art, while Charli XCX offered a more restrained yet deeply artistic statement in a custom Saint Laurent look centered around an iris motif.

Photos: Dimitrios Kambouris, Mike Coppola and Michael Loccisano, Getty Images

Together, these looks showed the many ways this year’s dress code could be interpreted, from painted surfaces and sculptural illusion to couture craftsmanship and subtle art-historical references.

TIMEPIECES TAKE THE SPOTLIGHT

Watches were no longer treated as secondary accessories, but as part of the overall creative statement. Pieces chosen for their shape, rarity and ability to complete a look with character. Some of the strongest moments came from shaped and archival watches.

Rami Malek wore a 1992 platinum Cartier Crash, while Bad Bunny opted for a 1996 Cartier Cloche, two unconventional silhouettes that felt perfectly aligned with the artistic spirit of the evening.

The night also delivered major statement pieces. Dwayne Johnson made his Met Gala debut wearing Jacob & Co.’s Billionaire III, a 54 mm timepiece set with 714 white diamonds totaling 129.61 carats, while Luke Evans brought a high-jewelry approach with the Hublot Big Bang Unico High Jewelry.

There were also more refined expressions of horology. Skepta chose an Audemars Piguet Royal Oak “Jumbo” Extra-Thin, and A$AP Rocky appeared with an Chanel Boy-Friend Skeleton. These choices brought a sense of technical sophistication to the carpet, proving that complications and classic watchmaking still have a place in one of fashion’s most theatrical settings.

Photos: Getty Images.

A FEMININE TAKE ON HIGH WATCHMAKING

Women’s watch moments brought a refined and expressive dimension to the show, with Serena Williams, Lisa, and Irina Shayk offering three distinct interpretations of timepieces as style statements.

Serena Williams chose an Audemars Piguet Selfwinding Perpetual Calendar, adding technical sophistication to her look, while Lisa embraced a jewelry-led approach with Bulgari’s Serpenti Spiga High Jewelry. Irina Shayk took the concept in a more experimental direction, incorporating several timepieces into her Alexander Wang look: including a diamond-set Cartier Santos placed at the center of her top, alongside vintage watches styled as jewelry pieces, from chokers to arm cuffs.

Together, their choices showed how watches can move beyond function to become powerful expressions of personality and style.

Photos: Getty Images and AFP.

As the 2026 Met Gala proved, fashion’s biggest night is no longer defined by couture alone. This year, watches became part of the visual conversation, from rare vintage pieces and high-jewelry creations to bold styling choices that transformed timepieces into fashion statements. More than accessories, they added depth and personality to the event, reinforcing the idea that true style lives in the details.

Follow Sparkling PR on Instagram for more industry insights and highlights from leading international fashion events. Visit our website regularly to stay informed about the latest news shaping the global fashion and luxury landscape.

Articles, Clients, News

Eberhard & Co. Reimagines the Tazio Nuvolari

By
Eberhard & Co. Reimagines the Tazio Nuvolari

At Watches and Wonders Geneva 2026, Eberhard & Co. unveiled a renewed interpretation of its iconic Tazio Nuvolari collection. First introduced in 1992, the chronograph pays tribute to the legendary racing driver, celebrating not only his legacy but his enduring spirit of courage, instinct and innovation.

Presented in a compact 40 mm case, the new model stands out for its Clous de Paris dial, a refined three-dimensional texture that adds depth and a contemporary edge while maintaining the collection’s distinctive sporting character.

EBERHARD & CO. | REFINED DETAILS

The watch integrates subtle yet meaningful references to classic racing, from the bezel with perlage finish and miles-per-hour scale to the wide chronograph counters that enhance its functional appeal.

The caseback reinforces this connection to heritage: with a closed back with gold engravings, while the Gold Car Collection reveals the movement through sapphire crystal, distinguished by refined finishes and an 18-carat gold reproduction of Tazio Nuvolari at the wheel of the Alfa Romeo Tipo C on the oscillating weight.

Available in two dial variations. A classic all-black version or a black dial with eggshell-white azuré counters. A new detail appears in the black version: the yellow TN monogram inside the tortoise emblem, a direct reference to Nuvolari’s personal insignia and his belief in yellow as a lucky color.

TAZIO NUVOLARI | A TRIBUTE TO A TIMELESS ICON

The tortoise, inspired by Gabriele D’Annunzio’s famous gift engraved “to the fastest man, the slowest animal,” remains a powerful symbol of the collection.

Eberhard & Co. continues to evolve one of its most emblematic creations, translating heritage into a contemporary design that feels both relevant and authentic. The result is a timepiece that honours a legend while confidently looking towards the future.

Contact us to receive the full press kit.

Discover more from our clients by following Sparkling PR on Instagram or visiting our website.

Articles, Clients, News

Schwarz Etienne’s: SYNERGY by Peter Speake

By
Schwarz Etienne’s: SYNERGY by Peter Speake

Following the success of its inaugural SYNERGY creations, Schwarz Etienne introduces a new chapter in collaborative watchmaking: the 1902 SYNERGY by Peter Speake. This limited edition embodies the Maison’s philosophy of co-authorship, establishing a true dialogue between two distinct horological identities.

At its core, SYNERGY is about uniting cultures, craftsmanship, and creative perspectives into a single timepiece. For this edition, Peter Speake was invited to reinterpret the Manufacture’s 1902 Réserve de Marche, infusing it with his unmistakable design language while remaining faithful to the technical and aesthetic DNA of Schwarz Etienne.

A DIAL DEFINED BY DEPTH AND LIGHT

The 1902 SYNERGY immediately distinguishes itself through its intricate, multi-layered dial architecture. Structured sapphire crystal elements, some as thin as 0.35 mm, create a sense of depth, giving the illusion of a floating composition.

Building on this sense of depth, an interplay of matte white lacquer, polished finishes and Prussian blue accents shapes the watch’s visual identity. Applied indices, lancine-style hands and a finely executed chemin de fer, punctuated with subtle Cayenne orange accents, introduce rhythm and contrast, while layered sapphire elements capture and diffuse light.

The upper quadrant houses a power reserve indicator with azurage finishing, animated by a serpentine hand, a signature detail of Speake’s work. At the center, a transparent sapphire plate carries the Manufacture’s name in three-dimensional form, revealing beneath it a small seconds display integrated into the base dial.

EXCELLENCE, INSIDE AND OUT

At the heart of the timepiece beats the in-house MSE 311.00 calibre, a hand-wound movement admired by Peter Speake for its architecture inspired by historic pocket watches. Featuring a distinctive six-bridge construction and twin barrels, it delivers a 120-hour power reserve.

The movement’s finishing reflects the highest standards of traditional watchmaking. Geneva stripes angled at 45°, polished bevels, sandblasted and rhodium-plated surfaces define its aesthetic, while engraved ratchet wheels are filled with blue lacquer. Limited to just 88 pieces, the edition subtly references the number 8 as a symbol of prosperity and balance.

Housed in a 39 mm case crafted from Grade 5 titanium, the 1902 SYNERGY balances elegance with modernity. Lightweight, hypoallergenic, and corrosion-resistant, the case features polished surfaces contrasted by satin-finished lugs. A blue textured strap with rubber lining completes the piece, reinforcing both comfort and visual coherence.

Unveiled in Geneva, during Watches and Wonders, the 1902 SYNERGY by Schwarz Etienne and Peter Speake captures the essence of collaboration, where creative independence and technical mastery not only coexist, but elevate one another.

Contact us to receive the full press kit.

Discover more from our clients by following Sparkling PR on Instagram or visiting our website.

Articles, News

The Myths and Realities of Public Relations

By
The Myths and Realities of Public Relations

Public Relations has long existed within a certain glow. From the outside, it appears to be a world of excess and allure, filled with events, curated guest lists, and moments that seem to fall effortlessly into place.

While that world exists and offers remarkable experiences, it does not define the discipline. Effective luxury Public Relations begins long before any dinner or glossy page article: it lives in the thinking, positioning, and strategy behind the scenes. After all, what shapes a brand is not only what is visible, but everything that happens before it comes into view.

WHAT LIES BETWEEN ILLUSION AND REALITY IN PUBLIC RELATIONS?

The Myth of Visibility

PR can often be reduced to visibility alone, centered on securing the right publication, the right name, the right moment. Yet visibility without meaning is hollow, and being everywhere is not the same as being relevant. Great PR is not about saturation, but precision: it requires a clear understanding of where a brand belongs and, just as importantly, where it does not.

The Reality of Curation

At its core, Public Relations is a continuous act of curation. It is not only about people or places, but about meaning. It requires knowing what to elevate, what to hold back, and what to leave unsaid.

In a time of constant exposure, intention matters more than ever, becoming the foundation through which Public Relations professionals shape how brands are experienced and ensure that every element aligns with a clear and considered narrative.

The Myth of Control

There is a belief that PR controls the narrative. However, once a story enters the world, it evolves through context, interpretation, and audience. PR cannot control this process, but it can guide it with intention by anticipating, framing, responding, and protecting when necessary. This guidance is where its true influence lies.

The Reality of Longevity

PR is not about quick wins or isolated moments of attention: it is built over time through consistency, credibility, and alignment. In luxury, trust is earned quietly and gradually, through relationships that cannot be rushed and must be nurtured. 

FOUR PR MISCONCEPTIONS WORTH RETHINKING

Only big publications matter

Major outlets hold immense value, but alignment matters more. The right placement, even within a smaller or more niche platform, can generate stronger impact and a more meaningful connection with its audience.

PR is only for established brands

Public Relations is essential at every stage of a brand’s journey, but its impact is very significant in the early phases. It helps define identity, shape perception, and establish positioning from the outset, creating a strong foundation for growth.

A good product does not need promotion

Quality is essential, but it is not self-sufficient. Without narrative and context, even the strongest product can go unnoticed. PR gives it meaning and ensures it resonates.

A press release is enough

PR is not just distribution, but connection. Generic communication is easily overlooked, while tailored and relationship-driven outreach creates real impact. Much of this work happens beyond the inbox, through experiences, events, and ongoing engagement.

SO, WHAT IS PR, REALLY?

PR is the architecture behind the spotlight, but it is also the quiet force that gives a brand its presence and its pulse. It is the difference between being briefly seen and truly remembered, between noise and meaning.

Working with Public Relations is not just a service, but a partnership. It means having people by your side who think ahead, challenge ideas, refine direction, and genuinely believe in what you are building. A Public Relations team not only celebrates a brand’s vision, but actively shapes it, understanding that every decision contributes to something greater.

Follow Sparkling PR on Instagram for curated insights, inspiration, and behind-the-scenes moments. Explore our website to discover our portfolio and stay connected to the forces shaping the global luxury landscape.

Articles, Clients, News

Minase: Japanese Soul in a Pocket Watch

By 1 Comment
Minase: Japanese Soul in a Pocket Watch

What if a pocket watch could capture the soul of Japan? With its latest launch, Minase explores, precisely, that idea, unveiling a high-end collection that transforms timekeeping into cultural expression.

Entering new territory, the brand unveils two exclusive creations, Asagimadara and Phoenix, exclusively made-to-order and offered in stainless steel or 18k gold. These creations are envisioned as works of art, embodying Minase’s commitment to precision, heritage, and the highest standards of watchmaking.

TIME, REIMAGINED AS AN OBJECT OF EMOTION

Each model unfolds a symbolic narrative deeply rooted in Japanese culture. The Asagimadara draws inspiration from the migratory butterfly, evoking journey, connection, and time, and is imagined as a bridge between cultures. In turn, The Phoenix channels the mythical bird reborn from its ashes, expressing transformation, resilience, and renewal through an intricate lacquer composition.

CRAFTSMANSHIP ROOTED IN CENTURIES-OLD TRADITION

At the heart of each piece lies a dial crafted using the centuries-old Wajima maki-e technique, a meticulous and entirely hand-executed process that unfolds over several months. Master lacquer artist Junichi Hakose imagines the dials, imbuing them with depth, texture, and narrative richness. Additionally, the collection features Tamahagane steel for the caseback and bow, a material traditionally reserved for Samurai swords.

Developed in the spirit of Mederu, the Japanese philosophy that celebrates beauty in its finest details, the collection embodies a profound respect for craftsmanship, patience, and precision. Each element conveys a harmonious dialogue between tradition and contemporary design.

A LIVING OBJECT SHAPED BY ITS OWNER

These pocket watches develop a distinctive dark patina over time, as the steel undergoes a natural, protective oxidation process. As a result, this gradual transformation enhances depth and character, lending each piece an increasingly refined, timeworn elegance. Through daily interaction, the owner shapes the watch’s evolution, turning it into a record of presence where time leaves its mark.

The collection also includes a handcrafted wooden stand by a local artisan, reflecting Minase’s dedication to regional craftsmanship. Additionally, the set includes a leather pouch, braided cords from Asakusa, and a handmade Akita cedar presentation box.

All timepieces are available to order via Minase’s international website. Each pocket watch is a bespoke creation, meticulously crafted to order in accordance with the brand’s philosophy.

During Watches and Wonders 2026, Minase will unveil this collection alongside other emblematic creations. To discover the full press release, click here.

Stay connected with Sparkling PR on Instagram or visit our website regularly for the latest updates from our clients.