LOGIN
OBAMA TIME: An obscure private label watch brand is getting a big lift from a high-powered fan: President Barack Obama. The Jorg Gray line of watches, previously distributed in the corporate gifts market, is taking aim at the retail sector after the President ditched his Tag Heuer for the company’s sporty black chronograph — a watch he has sported to most major events of his political ascendancy, including the inaugural balls. The fledgling brand launched an e-tail site two months ago, Barackswatch.com, and is taking its wares to Baselworld next week to shop for brick-and-mortar partners. It’s been a considerable shift for parent company Logomark, whose core competency is making customized shirts, totes and key chains for corporate clients. “This doesn’t happen to someone everyday,” said Trevor Gnesin, president of Logomark of his fateful alignment with the President. He owes it all to a member of Obama’s security detail, who gave the then-Senator the watch for his birthday in August 2007.
KATE IN PARIS: Kate Moss, who was in Paris during fashion week, stayed on for a modeling assignment. Early last week, the supermodel did a shoot in Place de la Concorde for a future women’s fragrance for Yves Saint Laurent, wearing looks from Stefano Pilati’s pre-fall collection for YSL.
* Required