Gucci Timepieces and Jewelry and The Latin Recording Academy® are pleased to announce the signing of an exclusive two-year partnership, which will bring to life a special-edition collection of timepieces and jewelry inspired by the eclectic world of Latin American music.

This new partnership acts as a perfect complement to the on-going collaboration with the GRAMMY® Awards and The Recording Academy® and asserts once more Gucci’s commitment to the world of music. This new partnership not only underscores Gucci’s own 90-year history, during which time the House has counted among its most loyal clientele many iconic musical artists, but also its commitment to the support of the performing arts.

“Music, much like film, is such an active part of today’s culture and it also frequently provides inspiration for my work as a designer,” said Giannini. “As a fashion house with a rich history built over 90 years, Gucci is proud to be at the forefront of initiatives like this that support young talents in their future musical endeavors. It’s an honor to partner with The Latin Recording Academy, which is not only considered to be a leading music authority, but also a vital platform for the promotion of this vibrant genre of music.”

To celebrate this collaboration and preview these special products, Gucci Timepieces & Jewelry will host an exclusive suite at the Mandalay Bay in Las Vegas during Latin GRAMMY Week (November 7th through 10th). A new section completely dedicated to the Latin GRAMMY Awards will be integrated into the existing Music Through Time exhibit. This module will showcase a journey through the history of the Latin GRAMMYs, engaging viewers through audio and video. This exhibit will subsequently travel to various countries such as United States, Puerto Rico, Mexico, Colombia, Panama and Chile.

In addition, at this year’s 12th Annual Latin GRAMMY Awards, The Latin Recording Academy will provide a special Gucci Timepieces & Jewelry Award to the young emerging Latin artists who are currently nominated for “Best New Artist”: Pablo Alboran (Spain), Max Capote (Uruguay), Paula Fernandes (Brasil), Il Volo (Italy) and Sie7e (Puerto Rico).

“We are extremely excited to partner with such an iconic and luxurious brand that recognizes the importance of Latin music and its emerging artists,” said Gabriel Abaroa Jr. President/CEO of The Latin Recording Academy.”We look forward to collaborating with Gucci and celebrating Latin culture through music and fashion.”

Music has been, and continues to be, a fundamental part of Gucci’s heritage. Over time, Gucci has counted some of the world’s most iconic musicians as fans, including GRAMMY and Latin GRAMMY Award nominees and winners such as Jennifer Lopez, Fergie of the Black Eyed Peas, Mary J. Blige, Marc Anthony, Eric Clapton, Elton John, John Legend, Alicia Keys, Madonna, Rihanna, Ringo Starr, Rod Stewart, Barbra Streisand, Kings of Leon, Florence Welch and Justin Timberlake.

UPDATE:

Gucci’s first-ever digital timepiece, the I-GUCCI, now presented in a larger and bolder version, is an eye-catching option with a cosmopolitan feel. It offers the ultimate in versatility. With a flick, the broad watch face changes from a two-time zone dial in large digits to a streamlined version that features two digital hands revealing local time, including multiple Latin American locations.

Its extra-large, double-layout digital display features a special tag celebrating the Latin GRAMMY partnership. The PVD stainless-steel case is complemented by a wide, black rubber strap featuring a black Guccissima insertion. This special – edition timepiece boasts multiple functions such as chronometer, countdown and other options, making it a perfect tool for a fast-paced lifestyle. The case back also features the Latin GRAMMY Awards special edition label.

The Latin GRAMMY collection also includes a Guccissima leather bracelet in a glamorous black color. The gramophone symbol is etched on the rhodium plated sterling silver clasp along with the Gucci logo completing the overall design. This exclusive collection will appeal to music lovers. These special editions will benefit The Latin Recording Academy and its initiatives to support young and emerging artists on the international music scene and strengthen global awareness of the importance of the culture. The Latin Recording Academy’s educational programs provide students insight into the Latin recording industry, allowing for an open dialogue with musicians and members of the music industry to ultimately better understand the business and how to pursue a successful career.

For more information about Gucci, please visit www.gucci.com and for dedicated news on Timepieces www.guccitimepieces.com.

For more information about The Latin Recording Academy, please visit www.latingrammy.com. For breaking news and exclusive content, join the organization’s social networks as a Twitter follower at www.twitter.com/latingrammys, and a Facebook fan at www.facebook.com/latingrammys.

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-Phaon Spurlock, The Southern Gentleman

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