Power

Extraordinary Within Reach

27 augustus 2026Door Fleur de Jong4 min lezenMASTERS Magazine

What if craftsmanship and technology met in perfect harmony? From a handheld telescope that eliminates the need for tripods to a leather jukebox as a bag: these are the objects that redefine desire.

The future of viewing: image stabilisation without a tripod

SWAROVSKI OPTIK takes a bold step forward with the AT/ST Balance: a premium handheld telescope that delivers such a stable image you would swear an invisible tripod is hidden somewhere. For the first time, the Tyrolean family business combines its top-tier optics with advanced SWAROBALANCE image stabilisation, which neutralises even the smallest movements. The result: razor-sharp observation at up to 45x magnification, straight from the hand. Ideal for anyone who wants to miss nothing and has no desire to carry three kilos of tripod equipment. Under the bonnet, the Balance processes more than 1,000 measurements per second, after which an electric motor adjusts a lens module in real time. The technology draws on innovations from photography, but elevates stabilisation in telescopes to an entirely new segment. As CEO Johannes Oberdanner puts it aptly: "A true turning point in observation optics." Operation is child's play: one button, and you're off. The optical performance is what we expect from SWAROVSKI OPTIK: true to nature, razor-sharp and with impressive edge sharpness. The robust, lightweight design also makes it travel-friendly. The series comprises two models: the AT Balance 18–45x65 (angled eyepiece) and the ST Balance 14–35x50 (straight eyepiece), both compatible with the VPA 2 smartphone adapter. Price €3,420.

Swarovskioptik.com

Celestial must-have

The Apollo 24 Celestial Globe by Hermès is a masterpiece for anyone who wants their interior to feel a little more cosmic. This celestial sphere, suspended in gold-plated stainless steel rings, reveals a meticulously mapped Milky Way on a deep Prussian blue Swift calfskin background. The globe consists of 12 perfectly fitted pieces of printed and lined leather, carefully crafted into a showcase of leather inlay work. The result: a detailed star map that guides you effortlessly through the major constellations. At 44 centimetres in diameter, this artwork is large enough to make a statement, yet subtle enough not to compete with the stars in the sky. Price: €23,500.

Hermes.com

Royal Flush in haute couture

Christian Dior had a weakness for cards, and fortunately so: his nostalgic love of canasta has led to one of the most stylish poker accessories. Dior Maison presents a poker set in enchanting beige and navy Dior Oblique motif, with which you are assured of an excellent appearance even with a poor hand. The set gleams in an embossed leather case, crafted in France, where craftsmanship and refinement find each other blindly. Inside await poker chips in six colours, each engraved with Monsieur Dior's lucky star. Two complete card decks, featuring an elegant illustration of the iconic boutique at 30 Montaigne, complete the ensemble. Whether you play for chips, pleasure or the last bit of prestige at the table: this set shows that style always wins. Made from a luxurious mix of cowhide, clay, cotton and a touch of French magic, this is the perfect gift for anyone who likes to play for high stakes. Price: €3,900. But hey, with such cards on the table, even losing feels a little like winning.

Dior.com

Rock-'n-roll elevated

As if Elvis himself came to brighten your outfit: the Dolce & Gabbana Juke-box Dolce Box top-handle bag is an ode to retro glamour, cast in pure Italian luxury. This sculptural mini bag, half art object and half fashion statement, draws inspiration from the iconic jukebox and brims with playful nostalgia. The exterior combines wood (68%), resin (17%) and calf leather (15%), carefully shaped into a compact box measuring 19 × 14.5 × 7 cm. Silver-toned hardware, including a charming padlock, adds a touch of rock-'n-roll chic to the whole. A rounded handle and a removable, adjustable shoulder strap make this bag versatile: from elegant handbag to casual crossbody. Inside you'll find a neat slip pocket, while metal feet protect the bag when it rests on a table. What truly sets this bag apart: it is not an accessory, but a conversation starter pure and simple. Price: €9,500.

Dolcegabbana.com

Clutch on heels

The Women's Wader Clutch is exactly what you get when Balenciaga decides to make a bag that can be both elegant and delightfully headstrong. Made in Italy from butter-soft calf leather, the kind that whispers rather than creaks, and finished with aged-silver hardware, this is a clutch that does more than simply hold things; it makes a statement. The design shamelessly nods to the iconic Wader shoe, complete with a metal signet ring bearing the BB logo on the heel. Thanks to its comfortable hand carry design and a zip that glides like silk, you take this Italian beauty effortlessly from lunch to late. Inside you'll find nappa lamb lining and just enough space for the essentials: your smartphone, your wallet and a touch of attitude. Compact at 28 cm in length and 25 cm in height, yet grand in presence. Price: €2,600.

Balenciaga.com