The Journal
Café Leather – Timeless Essentials
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For Miguel Sánchez, essentials are key in life. The pillar of everything. See how the founder of café leather matches IWC timepieces to any outfit with just a strap change.
I have always believed that essentials are key in life, and the older I get, the more I believe this. Essentials are the pillar of everything. From the seasoning in your slow-cooking stews to the oxford shirt you wear every day, or the simple act of spending time with your family and friends, and riding your bike out to see the sunrise. These are things that never get old and that always put a smile on your face.
Of course, essentials are different for everyone, but some work perfectly for all of us. Let me take you through the next chapter with my IWC Portugieser Chronograph Ref. IW371610 with an 18 ct 5N gold case and show you how, just by changing a simple strap, you can combine essential pieces with almost any look.
— The Portugieser Chronograph Ref. IW371610 with a black Café Leather strap
— Essential pleasures: Miguel Sánchez taking it all in on a joyride
BACK TO THE BASICS
In the world of fashion, “back to basics” speaks to the timeless elegance and enduring appeal of simple, well-crafted pieces. It’s about cherishing quality over quantity, embracing versatility and celebrating the beauty of understated sophistication.
For me, “back to basics” is more than just a style choice - it’s a way of life. It’s about stripping back the distractions and complexities that often clutter our lives, and returning to the core values that ground us and give meaning to our existence.
Throughout my journey as a designer and entrepreneur for Café Leather, I’ve learned the importance of staying true to my roots, honoring craftsmanship and authenticity in everything I do. I remind myself to focus on what truly matters - family, community and creativity - and to find joy in the simple pleasures of everyday life.
From designing a new product to going for a nice ride with my bike to enjoy a perfect sunset, or through the relationships I cultivate with customers and collaborators, “back to basics” serves as my compass, guiding me towards a life of purpose, passion, and authenticity.
ONE WATCH, MANY STYLES
I’ve always been passionate about the art of curating a wardrobe rooted in well-made essentials and elevated by carefully chosen accessories. Basic/essential clothes are decorated with a special touch through my accessories. A pair of shoes, a nice jacket or my IWC always complete my style. And this is where you understand how versatile an essential a watch can be.
I’ve been producing the finest leather watch straps for a while, and you cannot imagine how a watch like the Portugieser Chrono can change your look by just changing your strap. From a canvas strap to a leather or stainless steel one, I am able to completely transform the look and feel of my outfit, effortlessly transitioning from casual to formal and from rugged to refined.
For me, accessories are an expression of my personal style and individuality. And with a versatile watch like the Portugieser, I can always stay true to myself.
— Switching gears: Miguel Sanchez replaced the leather strap with a rubber one
— Café Leather is known for its authentic products and meticulous attention to detail
— The black rubber strap lends a sporty vibe to the Portugieser Chronograph IW371610
— Ref. IW371610 is powered by the IWC-manufactured movement caliber 69355
EVERY DETAIL MATTERS
Details are the essence of both professional excellence and personal fulfillment. In the world of craftsmanship, it’s the intricate details that elevate a product from good to exceptional. Whether it’s the precision of a hand-stitched leather strap or the sapphire glass that allows you to see the inside of the movement, every detail reflects your commitment to quality and excellence.
But beyond the professional realm, details hold equal importance in our personal lives or beyond. It’s the small gestures, the thoughtful touches, and the attention to detail that strengthen our relationships and enrich our experiences. Whether it’s remembering a friend’s favorite coffee order or taking the time to notice the beauty in everyday moments, these details demonstrate our care and consideration for others and ourselves, which is also important.
In both professional and personal contexts, details are what set us apart. They show our dedication, our passion, and our commitment to excellence. So yes, details do matter - in life, in work, and in everything we do.
