Gassmann approaches each cufflink as a small yet meaningful object, combining materials like mother-of-pearl, leather, bronze, and silver with subtle sophistication. For him, luxury lies in what is not ostentatious but thoughtfully crafted—often hiding the metalwork beneath the cuff while allowing delicate surfaces to speak for themselves.
Entirely self-taught, Gassmann has mastered techniques such as polishing, enameling, gold leafing, and torch work. His atelier, singular in its dedication to this niche accessory, is surrounded by a close network of Parisian artisans—from engravers and founders to 3D modelers—who contribute their expertise to each creation when needed.
© Courtesy of the artist
Which place do you currently call home and where do you work on your projects?
Paris, Paris, Paris! (Josephine Baker song)
Where is your studio located & how does it look?
My studio is located 2, rue Dupin – Paris 6e (France). My boutique-atelier is situated in front of Le Bon Marché. This is the place where I produce all my collections of cufflinks, rings, studs or bracelets!
© Courtesy of the artist
Are there any projects that are personally important to you – whether recently completed or currently in progress?
An important ongoing project is my desire to open up my new boutique-atelier—located just in front of Le Bon Marché—to other creative worlds. I’d like to invite artists, designers, and emerging brands I believe in. It’s a way for me to reconnect with my past as an exhibition curator and to build a space that’s alive, inspiring, and collaborative.
My first atelier was at home, which is meaningful for me. When I had my first child, I moved to an atelier in 12th arrondissement thanks to the support of la Mairie de Paris. During the Covid period, I had to move again and I opened my first boutique-atelier in le Village Saint-Paul in the 4th arrondissement. It has been my first experience in the retail. Last November, I had the opportunity to move my boutique-atelier, just in front of Le Bon Marché. In this place, I am going to keep working on my collections while reviving my past as an exhibition curator.
The theme of my latest collection is Childhood. This year, I’ve been exploring memories, objects, and impressions from my early years — playful forms, soft textures, and gentle colors. It’s a very personal and poetic body of work, inspired by that unique moment in life when everything feels possible and emotions are vivid and unfiltered. The collection draws from a world of lightness and carefree imagination—soap bubbles, marbles, fairy tales, and daydreams. Some pieces take the form of symbolic objects from this enchanted universe: a soap bubble keyring, marble cufflinks, a tiny key inspired by Alice in Wonderland, or a magic wand referencing Cinderella and Tinker Bell. I love the idea of capturing that delicate, whimsical spirit and translating it into lasting materials like silver or gold.
© Courtesy of the artist
© Courtesy of the artist
© Courtesy of the artist
Do you have a favourite place in your area where you like to relax and linger?
My pleasure is going to flea markets and Parisian exhibitions. We are so lucky to have numerous museums in Paris. What I like the most are contemporary art exhibitions.
© besopha, Les magasins Le Bon Marché (33176113578), colors, CC BY 2.0
Do you know a hidden gem when it comes to local manufacturers – whether it’s arts and crafts, sustainable products or food?
Astier de Villatte. Each piece of ceramic is handmade.
© Stephen Kent Johnson
© Stephen Kent Johnson
Is there anything particulary innovative in your region? Also in comparison to other places you have already visited?
Paris’ cycle paths have been very well developed in the last 3 to 4 years.
© Pedro Szekely from Los Angeles, USA, Paris cityscape (42006296512), CC BY-SA 2.0
© Velvet, Paris orsay vue hall, CC BY-SA 4.0
Do you have a secret restaurant tip that you would like to share with us?
Is there a local shop whose products are only available in your region?
My own place & Mr Smith Paris…
What are your 3 favourite apps that you use every day and couldn’t live without?
Only one: The weather report.
Do you have any favourite newspaper or online magazines? And how do you keep up to date with politics or social and cultural issues?
Le Monde, the online version.
© Fanny Schertzer, Jardin du musée Carnavalet 2, CC BY 3.0
Imagine you could be mayor for a year – what would you change?
Because my speciality is to create and produce cufflinks by hand, I would propose cufflinks for everyone, of course! And maybe I would also include history of art and humour lessons at school 😉
One last question: If you could choose another place to live – regardless of financial or time constraints – which one would you choose?
I wouldn’t change anything… I would keep on working and living in Paris!
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