THE WATCH LIST: CHRIS BLACK
We know and love Chris Black because he invented Twitter. Well he didn’t invent it but, he refined it to an art form. As @donetodeath he offers sharp commentary on the highs and lows of pop culture, style, design and a lot of celebrity insanity I know nothing about. Now he has a terrific column at The Strategist, where he offers wisdom about the enlightened acquisition of objects. He also hosts the Public Announcement podcast (there’s a classic episode with fellow Twitter deity Naomi Fry) . He also advises brands, including Thom Browne, Stussy and Asics. There’s some discussion that he would style me for a week and I would style him. It would never work because he looks great in a suit but if I wear shorts and sneakers I look like Sammy Hagar’s business partner. Anyway, as you would expect Chris is an eBay guru. Let the bidding begin!
Vintage 1993 Lemonheads "Big Gay Heart" Shirt
“This shirt is that really ugly 90s gray, basically unwearable. But The Lemonheads are in my Top 5, so I feel like I should purchase just to add to my collection. Also, the back says ‘Look After Yourself’ which feels appropriate for 2019’s self-care agenda.”
“As you can tell by the price, this is a grail. Issue one (they only made two issues) of the lavish 90s fashion bible helmed by stylist Joe McKenna. It features a fantastic spread of Kate Moss (pre-rehab!) by Bruce Weber. The other contributors do not disappoint either: Craig McDean, Juergen Teller, Mario Sorrenti, Paolo Roversi, Steven Meisel, and David Sims. Yeesh!”
Authentic Louis Vuitton Keepall 60 Vintage Monogram Boston Bag
“I need a new duffle bag, and I am drawn to old Louis Vuitton. It feels a little corny, but I DON’T CARE! The perfectly aged brown leather calls out to me like a friend I haven't seen in years.”
EDITOR’S NOTE: He bought the bag.
Ed Ruscha offset print exhibition poster
“I love an affordable exhibition poster. This poster for an Ed Ruscha (my favorite of the Cool School artists) show at The University of Texas in Austin screams LA. The photo is taken from the perspective of someone about to jump off a diving board into a still blue pool. Hockney-esque. Calming!”
Tiffany & Co Sterling Silver Baby Rattle
“My sister just had twins. Uncle Chris has to come through with a timeless baby gift. Hunting down two sterling silver Tiffany's rattles won't be hard. Now I just need to think of some clever engraving ideas.”
THE WATCH LIST is a regular series where friends reveal their auction obsessions.