Luxist

Thakoon Mirror Mosaic Strappy Sandals

Rigel Celeste — Fri, 20 Nov 2009 16:02:00 EST

The holidays are all about glitz and glamour -- even for those who glam it up year round, Christmas and New Years are a time for stepping it up a notch. Consider these Mirror Mosaic Strappy Sandals by Thakoon to be your over-the-top statement splurge this season. Dazzling slip-on style in silver mirrored leather with brick-effect paneling, black suede trim, cutout effect, and angled peep toe opening. The heel measures a sky-high 4.5 inches and the price checks in at an equally high $1,150.

Like 'em? Then you should also check out these Mirror Mosaic Ankle Boots.

Filed under: Shoes

Thakoon Mirror Mosaic Strappy Sandals originally appeared on Luxist on Fri, 20 Nov 2009 16:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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25CPW: Artists Turn Empty Upper West Side Space into Den of the Aesthetic

Tom Johansmeyer — Fri, 20 Nov 2009 15:00:00 EST

Ten artists found a way to make vacant commercial space incredibly exciting. I wandered by 25 Central Park West on a walk in my neighborhood a few days ago and saw artists inside. They were hard at work cleaning, preparing and hanging their pieces. Tapping on the window was one of my smartest moves this week. By doing so, I learned of a new exhibition, which opened Wednesday night. The show, 10 from 25: Emerging Artists using Photography, is set to run through December 13, 2009. It includes flat art and video, bringing to life an empty space in a part of Manhattan generally forgotten by the art community.

The artists, including Bess Greenberg, who gave me a tour of the space as she and the other artists prepared for opening night, have created an integrated show that doesn't sacrifice the message of each of the participants. So, in addition to a group exhibition, visitors are treated to 10 individual efforts, in which one can appreciate a specific style without having to cope with the intrusion of other pieces on his experience.

Gallery: 10 from 25: Emerging Artists using Photography

Continue reading 25CPW: Artists Turn Empty Upper West Side Space into Den of the Aesthetic

Filed under: Art

25CPW: Artists Turn Empty Upper West Side Space into Den of the Aesthetic originally appeared on Luxist on Fri, 20 Nov 2009 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Luxist Gift Guide 09: FitzGerald Coleman Curated Desk Sets

Ariston Anderson — Fri, 20 Nov 2009 14:01:00 EST

Building the perfect stationery set can be a real challenge. To build the ideal collection, you want to find pieces that both reflect your personality and pull from a wealth of design sources. Fortunately FitzGerald Coleman has come to the rescue this holiday season, and done all of the work for you. Introducing curated desk sets, each three-tiered secretary box is expertly filled with elite paper goods from brands like Herman Yu, Pancake & Franks, Paper & Cup, Snow & Graham, TokyoMilk, and John Derian.

Choose your personality: the Romantic, Minimalist, Innovator, Traditionalist, Connoisseur, Humorist, or Modernist, and find a box packed to the brim with luxurious paper goods tailored directly toward your own style. If you love gorgeous die cuts and pop outs, go for the Innovator. If Victoriana is more your style, choose the Traditionalist. If you like to make people laugh, the Humorist is the box for you. In addition to standard stationery, you'll find wrapped cards for every holiday and occasion of the year, all on delicately printed handmade paper. Click through the images to see some of the intricate designs. The boxes are even topped off with a matching pen from Montreal company Pierre Belvédère.

At $145, including shipping, fine paper is the luxury that anyone can afford this holiday season. It's a perfect gift full of wonderful surprises for anyone on your list. Head to FitzGerald Coleman to find your own paper personality.

Gallery: FitzGerald Coleman Curated Desk Sets

Filed under: Holiday Guides

Luxist Gift Guide 09: FitzGerald Coleman Curated Desk Sets originally appeared on Luxist on Fri, 20 Nov 2009 14:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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The Estate at Turks and Caicos, Estate of the Day

Deidre Woollard — Fri, 20 Nov 2009 13:01:00 EST

Today's estate is an idyllic retreat in the Turks and Caicos Islands. This home is on 2.5 acres with an additional .68 acre available. It is located less than two miles from the Grace Bay Beach area which offers access to restaurants, golf, casinos, resorts, shops and more. This home is gated and has its own private road and waterway access.

The property includes a spectacular main house with a glass bottom pool, commercial restaurant quality kitchen facilities, three master bedrooms with en-suite baths, library, sitting room, living room, screening room, secret stairway, cigar/wine room, servants' quarters and an elevator. There are two additional guest homes with private reflection pools. The estate is being sold fully furnished, including art, goods, and equipment. The property can stay as a private estate or be developed a resort.

The asking price is $15.75 million for the main estate property and $1 million for the additional .68 acre. It is listed with Grace Lappin of Avalon Partners.

Gallery: The Estate in Turks and Caicos

Continue reading The Estate at Turks and Caicos, Estate of the Day

Filed under: Estates

The Estate at Turks and Caicos, Estate of the Day originally appeared on Luxist on Fri, 20 Nov 2009 13:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Montblanc Star Pluie d'Etoiles Watch For The Ladies

Ariel Adams — Fri, 20 Nov 2009 12:01:00 EST

Asymmetric diamond layouts are in. Harry Winston showed us this here on the Talk To Me, Harry Winston Snowflake watch, and not Montblanc gives us a taste of what this design aesthetic can produce. coming in January, Montblanc will reveal the new Star Pluie d'Etoiles watch for women. I do quite like the look. The case and dial work together harmoniously, as the watch wouldn't be what it is without both.

The case is 36mm wide and in 18k white gold. The out bezel is lined with baguette cut diamonds, while the inner side of the bezel is done in what looks to be round cut diamonds. The diamonds are top Wesselton, and there are 298 of them on the watch. The dial itself is in black Tahitian mother-of-peal, with a nicely engraved Montblanc star "falling" with the diamonds. Movement is a Swiss ETA automatic, and you know it is a Montblanc by the logo on the side of the case, as well as the characteristic "12" in their standard font. It is all on an alligator strap. A nice wintry ladies' watch this season.

Ariel Adams publishes the luxury watch review site aBlogtoRead.com.

Filed under: Timepieces

Montblanc Star Pluie d'Etoiles Watch For The Ladies originally appeared on Luxist on Fri, 20 Nov 2009 12:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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The World's Most Expensive Cocktail Shaker

Annie Scott — Fri, 20 Nov 2009 11:01:00 EST

While I was running around Amsterdam on Museumnacht (an annual event where museums across the city stay open into the wee hours), I found something for which I didn't know I was looking: the world's most expensive cocktail shaker.

The Boston Shaker, as it's called, is located in the gift shop of the House of Bols, a flavored liqueur company whose on-site museum/training facility is worth visiting -- they won the the Dutch Design Award for Best Exhibition & Experience in 2007 and you get to play "guess what flavor you're smelling." It's just across the street from the Van Gogh museum.

The Boston Shaker was created as a collaboration between The House of Bols and their neighbor, Coster Diamonds. It comes packaged as above, in a unique leather case designed and made by French family business Établissements Bernard RDB. The shaker itself is silver, 18 karat gold, and is encrusted with 480 brilliant-cut diamonds weighing 19.05 carats.

The price tag on this one-of-a-kind blinged-up barware is €35,000.00 or approximately $52,164.00.

This trip was paid for by the Netherlands Board of Tourism, but the ideas and opinions expressed in the article above are 100% my own.

Filed under: Spirits

The World's Most Expensive Cocktail Shaker originally appeared on Luxist on Fri, 20 Nov 2009 11:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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315-ft. Project Orca, Megayacht of the Future

Jared Paul Stern — Fri, 20 Nov 2009 10:01:00 EST

We've seen a lot of futuristic superyacht designs that look extremely cool and avant garde, and have no chance at all of ever being built. The 315-ft. Project Orca (above) by UK-based designer Michael Leach is an exception; it's currently under construction at the famed Blohm + Voss shipyard, scheduled for delivery in spring 2010. Leach's 220-ft. Anna for Feadship, one of their largest ever, won a World Superyacht Award for best displacement motor yacht. The Orca features a futuristic exoskeletal curving superstructure, aggressive lines and innovative glazing. Its enormous entertaining and private spaces will feature bespoke furniture from British firm Silverlining, with each piece handmade by a single craftsman and stamped with their signature silver hallmark. Metrica will handle the interior execution, and Cougar Marine will provide two custom limousine tenders stored on the yacht's sports deck.

Filed under: Water

315-ft. Project Orca, Megayacht of the Future originally appeared on Luxist on Fri, 20 Nov 2009 10:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Robb Report Offers the World's Most Expensive Xmas Gift for $500 Million

Jared Paul Stern — Fri, 20 Nov 2009 09:01:00 EST

Looking for a really unforgettable Christmas present for that special someone this year? That glossy chronicle of the filthy rich Robb Report has just the thing - a matching custom private jet and megayacht set costing $500 million. The eye-popping present, the world's most expensive, is part of the profligate publication's Ultimate Gift Guide, a seasonal offering of over-the-top exclusives. The recipient will receive an Airbus A380 (above), the world's largest jumbo jet, and a bespoke megayacht, both customized by renowned designer Patrick Knowles. The interiors will complement each other creating what Knowles calls a "custom personal brand" for the lucky owner. There's one catch - considering the backlog on A380 deliveries and the time required to design and build a custom megayacht, the giftee will have to wait at least six years to get their hands on the toys.

Filed under: Water, Wings, Wealth

Robb Report Offers the World's Most Expensive Xmas Gift for $500 Million originally appeared on Luxist on Fri, 20 Nov 2009 09:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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The Luxurious Taste of Scotland Travel Package

Jared Paul Stern — Fri, 20 Nov 2009 08:04:00 EST

The five star Gleneagles resort in Perthshire (above) and Rocco Forte's The Balmoral in Edinburgh are teaming up to offer an incredible "Taste of Scotland" package this season, providing guests with a true Scottish gourmet experience in two legendary, luxurious and multi award-winning locations. At the historic Balmoral in Edinburgh, travelers will be welcomed into a complimentary upgraded Executive Room, complete with a bottle of Bollinger champagne on ice, and will enjoy dinner in the Michelin-starred number one restaurant. While at Gleneagles, set on 850 acres of Perthshire countryside, guests will relax in a sprawling Estate Room before sampling a Scotch whisky tasting for two in the bar and then dining at the Michelin-starred Andrew Fairlie restaurant. Gleneagles is also home to three of the top Scottish Championship golf courses, a wide range of exhilarating outdoor leisure activities and a spacious spa. The Taste of Scotland package costs £1,200, or about $1,985, for two people with two nights at each hotel.

[via JustLuxe]

Filed under: Dining, Journeys

The Luxurious Taste of Scotland Travel Package originally appeared on Luxist on Fri, 20 Nov 2009 08:04:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Olive Oil, Lemon And A Whole Lot Of Cash

Deidre Woollard — Fri, 20 Nov 2009 01:35:00 EST

Much of the time it's easy to predict the top lot in an auction, one of the highest estimated pieces usually claims the honor. But that's not always the case. How's this for an exuberant art market moment, Emil Filla's "Still life with a Lemon, Bottle of Olive Oil, Bell Peppers and a Bowl of Vegetables", 1925, sold for $266,000 against a pre-auction estimate of just $15,000-20,000 on November 17 at an auction at Bonhams & Butterfields in Los Angeles. The auction set a new world record for the artist at auction. The auction was simulcast to the firm's San Francisco auction rooms.

This auction also included the unused Beatles album art created in 1968 by Jim Dine we discussed earlier this week. The collection of five graphite and watercolor works on vellum sold for $51,850 against an estimate of $25,000-35,000.

Filed under: Auctions, Art

Olive Oil, Lemon And A Whole Lot Of Cash originally appeared on Luxist on Fri, 20 Nov 2009 01:35:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Michael Stipe Wonders If You'd Like to Strap A Cassette To Your Body

Deidre Woollard — Thu, 19 Nov 2009 23:01:00 EST

I wouldn't exactly call the new collaboration between R.E.M. frontman and Martin Margiela a jewelry line. It's hard to know what to call it. The limited edition (199 pieces) Michael Stipe x Margiela collaboration is a silver microcassette with a little bit of unraveled tape which can be worn a variety of ways according to the press image. It can be worn as jewelry, tied into your hair, worn on a shoe or glasses or on a keychain. It fits well with the quirky Margiela aesthetic which has also featured champagne corks and soda can tabs reimagined as necklaces. The project is a one time event and will be available at Margiela boutiques and select retailers.

Filed under: Celebrity Design

Michael Stipe Wonders If You'd Like to Strap A Cassette To Your Body originally appeared on Luxist on Thu, 19 Nov 2009 23:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Did Tom Clancy Pick Up A Huge Baltimore Condo?

Deidre Woollard — Thu, 19 Nov 2009 22:01:00 EST

Baltimore is buzzing over a big sale at the Ritz-Carlton Residences in Baltimore. A penthouse condo in the pricey project has sold for $12.6 million making it the largest condo deal at the project and in the city. Rumor has it that the buyer may be best selling author and part owner of the Orioles baseball team Tom Clancy. Clancy has created a suspense thriller empire that includes many books including the Jack Ryan series as well as a line of Clancy-branded video games.

The apartment is actually three combined penthouse units which equal nearly 12,000 square feet of space with four bedrooms, six balconies, a home theater and three semi-private elevators.

The announcement of the sale follows the recent news that a man had sued the developer of Baltimore's Ritz-Carlton Residences to get back the return of the nearly $1.1 million deposit he put down on three units there. In the suit he claimed that the representatives of the project's developers told him that he could buy the units at a special price and resell them without ever going through a closing. But on November 12, his lawyers filed a notice with the court that they are dismissing the case without prejudice. Sales have been slow at the project, since it opened in 2008, 22 out of 191 units have been sold.

Filed under: Real Estate Developments

Did Tom Clancy Pick Up A Huge Baltimore Condo? originally appeared on Luxist on Thu, 19 Nov 2009 22:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Good Things, Small Package: Rolls-Royce to Outfit Special Edition Minis

Noah Joseph — Thu, 19 Nov 2009 21:01:00 EST

Conventional wisdom used to be that bigger cars got bigger luxury, and smaller cars did without. But as premium buyers have been migrating to smaller cars for easier access to city streets and a lower environmental impact, automakers have been learning that they expect their luxuries to come with them, just in a smaller package.

Aston Martin is planning an exclusive city car based on the Toyota iQ, and now, about half a year after rumors first surfaced, BMW has reportedly confirmed that its two British subsidiaries Mini and Rolls-Royce will be collaborating on an exclusive line of luxury hatchbacks.

Starting off with the Mini Cooper, the Rolls-Royce factory in Goodwood would then outfit the retro-hatch with all manner of top-of-the-line leather and wood veneer trim. The premium Minis would be made to order individually according to each customer's specifications, with public confirmation expected to come some time next year.

Filed under: Wheels

Good Things, Small Package: Rolls-Royce to Outfit Special Edition Minis originally appeared on Luxist on Thu, 19 Nov 2009 21:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Michelle Trachtenberg Designs For Coach

Deidre Woollard — Thu, 19 Nov 2009 20:02:00 EST

This has been a big week for celebrity jewelry lines. We've seen Angelina Jolie and Brad Pitt announce a line with Asprey, Alica Keys has a new line and now actress Michelle Trachtenberg has designed a line of jewelry for Coach's youth skewed Poppy Line. Trachtenberg's line in bright and colorful with big crystals, faux pearls and metal charms. Our sister blog Styelist spoke with Trachtenberg who said that her spring line was inspired by a mixture of romance and edginess that she described as having a very "Marie Antoinette meets Blondie" vibe.

Filed under: Jewelry, Celebrity Design

Michelle Trachtenberg Designs For Coach originally appeared on Luxist on Thu, 19 Nov 2009 20:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Porsche Boxster Spyder to Debut at LA Auto Show

Noah Joseph — Thu, 19 Nov 2009 19:01:00 EST

In the world of high-performance sportscars, lighter means faster. That's why Porsche is preparing to take the wraps off the new Boxster Spyder.

Based on its entry-level roadster, the Boxster Spyder benefits from an aggressive weigh-reduction program to cut some 176 pounds off the stock model's curb weight, thanks in part to a lighter roof mechanism. The German automaker has also pulled an extra ten horses out of the direct-injection 3.4-liter flat six for a total of 320hp, driving the rear wheels through a seven-speed dual-clutch gearbox to drop the 0-60 time down to 4.6 seconds.

Of course the "less is more" philosophy comes with a commensurately exclusive price tag of $61,200. The 2011 Porsche Boxster Spyder will make its debut early next month at the LA Auto Show, but we've got a sneak preview for you right here in the high-resolution image gallery below.

Gallery: Porsche Boxster Spyder

Filed under: Wheels

Porsche Boxster Spyder to Debut at LA Auto Show originally appeared on Luxist on Thu, 19 Nov 2009 19:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Chronoswiss Watches Open New York City Boutique Store

Ariel Adams — Thu, 19 Nov 2009 18:02:00 EST

Chronoswiss watches have been gaining popularity as of late and they have finally cleared up one of my biggest questions. Why are they called "chrono-Swiss" when they are a German company? The official response is here: "Though [Chronoswiss is] a German company, every component of the timepieces is manufactured in Switzerland and then hand-finished and assembled in Germany." Oh... OK. That makes more sense now. I do like the watches too!

Just in time for what everyone hopes will be the big rebound shopping season, Chronoswiss will open a brand new shop in SoHo in New York City. I love that the store front is both inviting and eye catching. It has that charming brick look, with a few little tables inside and a cute little entrance way. There is no large intimidating sign for the brand, just a cool looking banner showing a portion of one of their watch dials. A soft sign with the brand name is in the window. I really hope the inside of the store is as well designed as the outside. The boutique is located in SoHo on West Broadway. Although the store is now open, their official grand opening event will be held on December 2nd from 7-11pm.

Ariel Adams publishes the luxury watch review site aBlogtoRead.com.

Filed under: Timepieces

Chronoswiss Watches Open New York City Boutique Store originally appeared on Luxist on Thu, 19 Nov 2009 18:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Lauren Merkin Lotte Feather-Print Clutch, Handbag of the Day

Annie Scott — Thu, 19 Nov 2009 17:03:00 EST

The Lauren Merkin Lotte Feather-Print Clutch is a bright, feathery bag without all the fuss.

Carrying around a clutch that is essentially handful of feathers is certainly glamorous, but it's not always practical. You never want to put such a bag down anywhere, lest the feathers get smooshed, and heaven help you if it rains.

This bag creates a fun, flirty feather look -- but the genius of it is the coloring. Not only is it pretty, but feathers this color don't exist. If the silk were printed with an attempt at real-looking feathers, it would just look fake and half-hearted. Well done, Lauren Merkin, for making this soft silk print look intentional and classy.

This gathered, snap-flap, 6"H x 11 1/2"W clutch is perfect for a night out or a dinner party at a friend's place -- the teal is a perfect accent for a dark ensemble.

The Lauren Merkin Lotte Feather-Print Clutch is available from Neiman Marcus for $200.00.

Filed under: Handbags

Lauren Merkin Lotte Feather-Print Clutch, Handbag of the Day originally appeared on Luxist on Thu, 19 Nov 2009 17:03:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Ferrari edition Carbon Fiber Travel Guitar by Blackbird

Noah Joseph — Thu, 19 Nov 2009 16:02:00 EST

Ferrari's vast branding division has put the company's name and logo on just about everything by now. But while we've seen Ferrari edition sound systems, this is the first time the Prancing Horse logo has adorned an actual musical instrument. That is, assuming you don't count the sportscar's sonorous exhaust note.

Built by a former Ferrari designer, the Blackbird Rider is a compact, lightweight travel guitar with an innovative design. Now the company that inspired its creation has teamed up with its designer for a special edition. With such unique touches as a red A string and Individually signed by Ferrari F1 drivers Felipe Massa and Kimi Raikkonen, the Ferrari edition Blackbird guitar was sold exclusively at the Ferrari Store. Unfortunately they're all sold out by now, but for a hair under $1500 they'll make you a new one.

Gallery: Blackbird Rider Ferrari Edition

Ferrari edition Carbon Fiber Travel Guitar by Blackbird originally appeared on Luxist on Thu, 19 Nov 2009 16:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Air France Plans Deeper Job Cuts

Deidre Woollard — Thu, 19 Nov 2009 15:01:00 EST

Air-France is planning its first cross-Atlantic flight with its shiny new Airbus A380 jumbo jet but not all is rosy for Europe's largest airline. Air France-KLM has announced plans to trim 1,700 jobs next year following a worse-than-expected quarterly loss. The company is blaming the numbers on fuel hedging losses and poor cargo traffic. Passenger revenues were also down 17.2 percent but the effects of that would have been offset partly by a reduction in capacity. Air France-KLM had previously announced earlier cuts so this new staff reduction means that the airline carrier will enact 4,500 job cuts in the year to March 2010, reducing its global workforce to 105,000. Another reduction by March 2011 will trim the workforce by a further three to five percent by March 2011 in an effort to lift profits by 500 million euros for March 2012.

Filed under: Wings

Air France Plans Deeper Job Cuts originally appeared on Luxist on Thu, 19 Nov 2009 15:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Joe Francis Owes Nearly $34 Million, May File For Bankruptcy

Deidre Woollard — Thu, 19 Nov 2009 14:01:00 EST

Perennially smiling entrepreneur Joe Francis might not have so much to smile about now. The Girls Gone Wild Founder may owe nearly $34 million in taxes. Francis has been served with a tax lien that says that he failed to pay $17.7 million in 2001, $11.2 million in 2002 and $4.9 million in 2003. Francis told TMZ that he doesn't owe the money and that the lien is "total retaliation for me beating them in court." A couple of weeks ago a judge approved a plea deal letting Francis plead guilty to charges of filing false tax returns and bribing jail workers and sentencing him to time served and a year of probation. Francis is planning to file for personal bankruptcy.

After the jump, check out a video of Francis on the television show "Life of Luxury." It showcases his extravagant spending on yachts, homes, exotic cars, jets, and of course, entertaining beautiful young women.

Continue reading Joe Francis Owes Nearly $34 Million, May File For Bankruptcy

Filed under: Crimes and Misdemeanors

Joe Francis Owes Nearly $34 Million, May File For Bankruptcy originally appeared on Luxist on Thu, 19 Nov 2009 14:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Penthouse West, Estate of the Day

Deidre Woollard — Thu, 19 Nov 2009 13:01:00 EST

Today's home is a slice of swinging London. Penthouse West is located in the Regents Park area. The penthouse apartment is over 4,200 square feet in a portered building in a prime location featuring panoramic south facing views over Regent's Park and the London skyline. The contemporary apartment has a Bulthaup (B3 system) kitchen, Vola taps and shower fittings, Kaldewei oversized baths, bespoke vanity tops and stone work in all bathrooms. The hardwood terrace offers a firepit and views of the skyline in the distance. In the main living area a gas fireplaces divides the kitchen from the dining and living areas and adds a dash of sexy glamour. This home has a guide price of £8,750,000.

Gallery: Penthouse West

Continue reading Penthouse West, Estate of the Day

Filed under: Estates

Penthouse West, Estate of the Day originally appeared on Luxist on Thu, 19 Nov 2009 13:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Digit Watch # 27 Ring For Men Or Women

Ariel Adams — Thu, 19 Nov 2009 12:02:00 EST

Watches in rings have been done before, but not quite like this. This is a new approach and quite interesting. The Digit Watch is design to appeal to both men and women, and given its high level of customization - the company can make one for you. Produced in London, the Digit Watch takes existing mechanical watch movements from major luxury watch brands such as Rolex, Patek Philippe, Breitling, Blancpain, and others (buyer can choose), and places them inside of an 18k white gold ring with an Aquamarine jewel face, decorated with 142 diamonds. The ring has a watch face on it, and a crown for winding and setting the movement.

The concept is nifty for women who want something different, and as a second timepiece on ones hand for men who want the bling of a pinky ring. That rhymed... "Yo, look at my ring... I'm talking here!" I like who the movement is actually special and often a bit unique. It would have been easier to just put in a quartz movement, but that is not what the designer wanted to do. You can see in the image gallery who the small 17 jewel manually wound movements are inserted into the watch. An interesting idea and available starting at about 8,000 British pounds.

Ariel Adams publishes the luxury watch review site aBlogtoRead.com.

Gallery: Digit watch

Filed under: Jewelry, Timepieces

Digit Watch # 27 Ring For Men Or Women originally appeared on Luxist on Thu, 19 Nov 2009 12:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Luxury Resorts are still Struggling from AIG Effect

Carrie Coolidge — Thu, 19 Nov 2009 11:44:00 EST

The "AIG effect" is still affecting the luxury resort industry.

Indeed, businesses started toning down lavish corporate events after American International Group, the insurance giant, was widely criticized for holding a conference at a luxury resort days after it received a cash infusion from Congress in 2008.

Many resorts that have a heavy dependence on group business are still struggling. The latest victim is Amelia Island Plantation. Last week, the 1,350-acre luxury enclave overlooking the Atlantic Ocean in northeast Florida filed a voluntary petition for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection.

The resort is very dependent on its group business, which has dropped precipitously over the past year, according to Richard Goldman, its chief marketing officer. "More than half of our business is from corporate groups that hold conferences here," says Goldman. "The AIG effect has basically scared off folks -- even businesses that could afford to have meetings -- who are afraid to hold conferences at resorts."

The company will operate as "business as usual" during the reorganization and an investor group, comprised of Amelia Island Plantation residents and club members, has already collected to aid the resort.

Amelia Island Plantation isn't the only hospitality company struggling during the recession. In Scottsdale, Ariz., the W Hotel recently staved off foreclosure and the InterContinental Montelucia Resort, also in Scottsdale, faced possible foreclosure earlier in the year. The Tropicana Las Vegas casino and the Ritz-Carlton Lake Las Vegas emerged from bankruptcy this year.

And this week, Citigroup reached a tentative agreement to sell the very same resort that started the whole mess in the first place. The St. Regis Monarch Beach resort in Dana Point, Ca., made headlines last year when it hosted a group of AIG executives at a retreat just days after the government bailout of the company. Citigroup seized the St. Regis from its owners last summer, after they failed to make payments on the bank's $70 million loan on the property.

Filed under: Journeys

Luxury Resorts are still Struggling from AIG Effect originally appeared on Luxist on Thu, 19 Nov 2009 11:44:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Oops - "Suri" means "pickpocket" in Japanese

Annie Scott — Thu, 19 Nov 2009 11:02:00 EST

Oops -- I bet Katie Holmes and Tom Cruise didn't realize that "Suri" means "pickpocket" in Japanese, "horse mackerels" in Italian and "turned sour" in French (via Reuters). There's a British company called Today Translations whose luxury service could have helped them avoid the unfortunate situation.

For £1,000 (approximately $1,675.40), they'll check potential name disasters in 100 languages or more (at an additional cost, of course). They intend to attract celebrity clientele, whose celeblings often become international travelers before their first birthdays. Tom and Kate could have checked a hundred names without feeling a cramp in their coffers.

Who knows, Suri may be able to pull off "Pickpocket" ... it's actually kinda cool, but if you want to avoid embarrassing your future children. check out Today Translations.

[via Reuters]

Filed under: Children

Oops - "Suri" means "pickpocket" in Japanese originally appeared on Luxist on Thu, 19 Nov 2009 11:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Storytelling Comes Alive at Moth's Black & White Ball

Ariston Anderson — Thu, 19 Nov 2009 10:00:00 EST

The annual Moth Gala is one of our favorite events in New York. In a world drawn impersonal by tweets and newsfeeds, it's refreshing to know that there are still people out there promoting the art of storytelling. There's nothing quite like having your five minutes on stage, connecting with a live audience with an original yarn. Garrison Keillor and Jonathan Ames co-hosted the 2009 Moth ball held Tuesday night at Capitale, and awarded Actor Anna Deavere Smith for her groundbreaking reinvention of theater. The theme of the night was the Black and White Ball, and indeed several Truman Capotes floated throughout the massive Beaux Arts ballroom, formerly home to the Bowery Savings Bank.

Keillor joked to the audience that the Moth was started by people not from here. New Yorkers never give each other the opportunity to talk, unlike the rest of the country where "people were brought up to yield." The Moth is an incredible privilege for writers everywhere who can claim those five uninterrupted minutes on stage. The "Prairie Home Companion" host told his own story of having recently suffered a mild stroke in Minnesota, prompted by a Jesus-preaching masseuse. He drove to the ER to where patients complained of neck moles, while the polite Midwesterner waited in line until his turn came, and calmly told the nurse, "I'm having a stroke." Keillor knew his audience well, and acknowledged that during this story, New Yorkers, unable to appreciate a dramatic pause, would have thought of three stories on their own: a major stroke, a NYC ER room trumping a St. Paul one, or even just reading a story in the NYT Magazine about strokes. So true.

Fortunately the Moth has found a way to make storytelling vivid and alive, even for impatient New Yorkers. The highlight of the night was the finale, a round of one minute stories from ten winners of recent Moth Grandslams contests.

We asked Mr. Keillor why he has supported the Moth for so many years. "It really appeals to me. It's a grassroots organization that sprang up." he told us. "Now I think it's on the verge of tremendous success. It makes me very, very happy."

And Keillor has a new reason to love the Moth, as they've recently ventured into his radio medium. "It's a grassroots show, operating under very, very simple rules," he said, "so it has a beautiful democratic ethos about it which I think is very, very appealing." Audiences nationwide have caught the Moth fever, as the show is now broadcast on a record-breaking 205 stations after only three months. Today the Moth reaches millions of people across the country.

Click here for more information on how you can support the Moth.

Gallery: Moth Ball

Filed under: Charity

Storytelling Comes Alive at Moth's Black & White Ball originally appeared on Luxist on Thu, 19 Nov 2009 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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The Fashion Statement: The Obama Effect

Kristin Young — Thu, 19 Nov 2009 09:00:00 EST

Michelle Obama seems to be single-handedly thrusting unknown designers into the fashion stratosphere. First, there was Jason Wu who, before the now infamous Inaugural Gown, was known only in fashion circles.

Sophie Théallet is the latest no-name to get noticed arguably from being a favorite of today's jackpot when it comes to celebrity endorsements, the First Lady. Earlier this week the French-born designer, who specializes in boho-luxe designs (read: very expensive and pretty hippie-like dresses), won the CFDA/Vogue Fashion Fund which gives $200,000 to deserving upstart designers. While the honor is voted upon by members of the CFDA, it certainly didn't hurt that only months before, Michelle Obama wore Théallet's dresses to a number of events including Senator Edward Kennedy's funeral.

So who is Sophie Théallet? Turns out, she's one of those behind-the-scenes stars of the design world. According to her bio, she was tapped by Parisian department store Le Printemps to design her own collection right out of design school. After that, she paid her dues as an assistant designer to Jean-Paul Gaultier and Azzedine Alaïa where she was dubbed his right hand woman.

Three years ago, she moved to New York and started freelancing for various fashion brands. In 2005, she launched resort line Motu Tane with beauty guru Francois Nars.

Gallery: Sophie Theallet Fashion Statement

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Filed under: The Fashion Statement

The Fashion Statement: The Obama Effect originally appeared on Luxist on Thu, 19 Nov 2009 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Porsche Family's Personal Watch Collection to be Auctioned

Jared Paul Stern — Thu, 19 Nov 2009 08:01:00 EST

49 watches from the private collection of Prof. F. A. Porsche of the famed sports car marque and his sons will be auctioned by Bonhams on Dec. 2 in London during its Fine Watches and Timepieces sale. Included are timepieces by Eterna, Porsche Design, Rolex, Panerai, Jaeger LeCoultre, Breitling, Chronoswiss, Omega and more. Of particular note are prototypes and unique examples of Eterna and Porsche Design watches custom made for the Porsche family. The latter includes a fine 18 carat gold chronograph (above) made especially by Eterna (now owned by Porsche) and presented to Dr. Ferdinand Oliver Porsche for his 40th birthday, estimated at £4,000 - £6,000. Also included in the collection is a very rare Rolex Explorer with ivory dial (£,5000 -£7,000), a selection of Panerai watches including a Luminor Flyback (£3,000 - £5,000), and an original Jaeger LeCoultre Polaris from 1960 (£5,000 - £7,000).

[via JamesList]

Filed under: Timepieces, Wheels, Auctions

Porsche Family's Personal Watch Collection to be Auctioned originally appeared on Luxist on Thu, 19 Nov 2009 08:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Billionaire Johann Rupert New CEO Of Richemont Group

Ariel Adams — Wed, 18 Nov 2009 22:02:00 EST

Frequent among the Forbes Magazine list of world's richest people, South African native Johann Rupert has been appointed the new CEO of the Richemont Group, who is owns a bevy of world-class watch and jewelry labels. Among these are Cartier, Panerai, Jaeger-LeCoultre, and A. Lange & Sohne. It is unclear to me why Richemont Group's previous CEO left (sources say he retired), but with Rupert's history in the luxury realm, as well as charismatic personality, he seems like a good fit. Plus, he is wealthy enough to afford his company's own products.

One thing that Rupert made clear, is important for the company's future. Unlike the recent increase of detailed oversight of the brands under the Richemont umbrella, Rupert has indicated that he desires autonomy for the group brands. This is one of the major reasons we saw a rash of CEO resignations from Richemont brands (such as A. Lange & Sohne and Baume & Mercier). Hopefully Rupert is aware of the fact that micromanaging didn't do anyone any good, ever.

Rupert is not exactly a self-made man, but has done well with the incredible wealth that he inherited. His business record is quite impressive. It is well known in the watch industry that times are tough for luxury items. Richemont Group and main competitor Swatch Group have been hit hard, so it will be interesting to see their plans for recovery over the next few years.

Ariel Adams publishes the luxury watch review site aBlogtoRead.com.

Filed under: Jewelry, Timepieces, Wealth

Billionaire Johann Rupert New CEO Of Richemont Group originally appeared on Luxist on Wed, 18 Nov 2009 22:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Green Diamond Sets World Record

Deidre Woollard — Wed, 18 Nov 2009 21:01:00 EST

Natural colored diamonds and other colored stones did very well at the Sotheby's "Magnificent Jewels" sale in Geneva this week. The Roxburghe Rubies, a parure of a ruby and diamond necklace and earrings brought $5.77 million, five times the set's estimated price. A rare 2.52 carat vivid green diamond sold for $3.08 million. It was the largest vivid-green diamond ever to appear at auction and the sale set a new world-record price per carat for a green diamond at auction. Swiss jeweler Chatila paid $2.52 million for a 3.17-carat fancy intense blue diamond which set a new world-record price per carat for an intense blue diamond sold at auction. Chatila also paid $3.13 million for a 74.8-carat fancy vivid-yellow diamond ring. The sale brought in $36.68 million putting it safely above the pre-sale low estimate of $29.5 million. A total of 79 percent of the lots up for sale sold.

Filed under: Jewelry

Green Diamond Sets World Record originally appeared on Luxist on Wed, 18 Nov 2009 21:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Patek Philippe Pocket Watch Sells for $5 Million, Sets New World Record

Jared Paul Stern — Wed, 18 Nov 2009 20:02:00 EST

A Patek Philippe Yellow Gold Calibre 89 pocket watch, the world's most complex timepiece as mentioned by my colleague Ariel Adams last month, just sold for a world record price of CHF 5,120,000, or $5.068 million at Antiquorum's 35th Anniversary Sale in Geneva. "The incredible result realized for the Calibre 89 in our 35th anniversary auction indicates that the market for the most complicated and important watches in the world remains exceptionally strong," notes Antiquorum Chairman Robert Maron. "We are extremely honored to have sold this exceptional and unique timepiece for the second time in Antiquorum's history and are thrilled that we have once again achieved a world record price at auction." With a staggering 33 complications, the watch weighs nearly 2.5 lbs. and has an 18k yellow gold case. It was made to honor the 150th anniversary of the famed Swiss watchmaker.

Filed under: Timepieces, Auctions

Patek Philippe Pocket Watch Sells for $5 Million, Sets New World Record originally appeared on Luxist on Wed, 18 Nov 2009 20:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Smell Like Michael Jackson? My DNA Antiquity Fragrance Line

Deidre Woollard — Wed, 18 Nov 2009 19:02:00 EST

We've already seen the promise of a Michael Jackson diamond using his DNA, now a new line of fragrances offers the scent of a variety of celebrities based on their DNA. One of the first offerings is M, based on the DNA of Michael Jackson. My DNA Fragrance has created the "Antiquity" line of fragrances which will include dead celebrities like Elvis Presley, Albert Einstein, Marilyn Monroe, Joan Crawford and Katherine Hepburn. The firm already makes individualized scents for living customers based on the analysis of a customer's cheek swab. DNA tests performed on hair clippings provided by celebrity hair collector John Reznikoff are used to develop the scents of these luminaries. The Antiquity line sells for $59.99 per bottle and is available online. What does M smell like? The website is vague saying that it is "composed of the lightest, but most volatile essences."

[via Now Smell This]

Filed under: Cosmetics and Fragrance

Smell Like Michael Jackson? My DNA Antiquity Fragrance Line originally appeared on Luxist on Wed, 18 Nov 2009 19:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Dalmore Oculus Fetches Over $40,000

Deidre Woollard — Wed, 18 Nov 2009 18:05:00 EST

It didn't set a new world record but it was pretty close. The Dalmore Oculus, a crystal decanter of a whisky blend using vintages as old as 1868 recently brought in £27,600 ($46,400) at an auction in Edinburgh. The Dalmore Oculus was selected from cask 1781, distilled in 1951, some 58 years old. Rare malts selected from vintages distilled in 1868, 1878, 1922, 1926 and 1939 as well as a bit of the 64 year old were also added.

Bonhams had put an estimate of £15,000 to 20,000 on the Oculus. Bonhams has seen a boom in whisky sales. Bloomberg News reports that the company has sold 98 percent of the lots at its whisky auctions this year. The sale also included the first section of the collection of WIllard Folsom, a collection of 3,000 bottles. The world record, £29,400 pounds was set two years ago at a sale in Glasgow for a bottle of Bowmore made by W&J Mutter's in about 1850.

Filed under: Spirits, Auctions

Dalmore Oculus Fetches Over $40,000 originally appeared on Luxist on Wed, 18 Nov 2009 18:05:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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DKNY Logo Tote, Handbag of the Day

Rigel Celeste — Wed, 18 Nov 2009 17:02:00 EST

The DKNY Logo Tote is a classic, dark, wintery tote bag that will surely be a staple for years to come on those lazy days when you want to look pulled together without trying too hard or having to think too much about it. The logo-printed body is accented with black crocodile embossed leather and shiny goldtone hardware. Inside there's a black satin lining and two open compartments separated by a closed (zip-top) one. Also includes a logo key fob and a couple interior pockets (including one for your cell phone). £179

Filed under: Handbags

DKNY Logo Tote, Handbag of the Day originally appeared on Luxist on Wed, 18 Nov 2009 17:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Herman Miller Select Eames Inspired Walnut Tops Set

Ariel Adams — Wed, 18 Nov 2009 16:02:00 EST

You may know Herman Miller as a chair and furniture maker, but the company also makes items for the home. As people buy less products made in America, I think that Herman Miller takes prides in the fact that it is an American company, and enjoys releasing uniquely American products. Another side of Herman Miller you may not be familiar with is Herman Miller Select. The point of Select is to align with important designers and create one special product at a time. The first Herman Miller Select product was an Eames inspired chair, and now it is a set of toy tops.

The set of three tops was designed by New York city based design firm Klein Reid. If you are familiar with their work, you'll see the similarity in these tops. The design is inspired by famous designers Charles and Ray Eames (think, the Eames chair). The Eameses themselves looked to toys for inspiration in their work. Herman Miller currently produces Eames designed furniture, so it makes sense for them to offer these limited edition tops.

Made of high-quality turned solid Walnut wood, to me the tops each represent different periods of American design aesthetic - from ornate decoration to stark modernism. The tops arrive together as a set and are each between about 4 - 4.75 inches in size. They work too, but you have to use two hands to spin them. The look of wood and soft edges make the tops attractive pieces of decorative art, evoking imagery of toys from a simpler time as well as pure Americana. A good gift idea. Production is limited and will cease forever in April 2010. Price is $199 per set and available at select Herman Miller dealers and retailers. You'll need to locate a Herman Miller dealer or retailer here if you want to get a set.

Gallery: Herman Miller Tops

Filed under: Decor

Herman Miller Select Eames Inspired Walnut Tops Set originally appeared on Luxist on Wed, 18 Nov 2009 16:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Cynthia Rowley Legwear is Hot

Annie Scott — Wed, 18 Nov 2009 15:01:00 EST

Your dress may be an inexpensive LBD from a discount shop, but no one will notice if you're wearing fabulous designer tights.

This holiday season, times are (ugh) still tight, but the opulence and flashy glamour of the 20s and 30s speakeasy culture are in. The way to follow the trend without breaking the bank is to focus on your accessories: make them as eye-catching as you dare. Textures, dark jewel tones, and all things that sparkle are your friends, and we just love these Cynthia Rowley tights.

Also, as with other accessories, you can get them for a far more frugal price than, say, a Cynthia Rowley dress. The tights range from just $15 for Antique Dot Tights to $250 for the breathtaking Embellished Tights shown. It's a smart way to buy into a designer who might otherwise be out of your budget.

Now, go spend your money on presents!

Filed under: Apparel

Cynthia Rowley Legwear is Hot originally appeared on Luxist on Wed, 18 Nov 2009 15:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Color for Christmas, Lola Jewelry

Deidre Woollard — Wed, 18 Nov 2009 14:02:00 EST

LOLA Jewelry gets its name from Lots of Little Accessories, a nod to the undeniable desire to pick up a handful of tempting gems. This is a jewelry line that really celebrates color in the form of tourmalines, sapphires, beryls and many other beautiful gemstones. The brand is the creation of creation of Stacey Vance and her partner Kim Wilson and is based is based in Dallas, Texas. Jewelry from the LOLA collection is crafted out of 18k yellow gold, 14k white gold or platinum, and piece start around $400 but go much higher. Custom designs are also available.

Luxist asked Stacey Vance about which colored gemstones are most popular. She says that sapphires remain the most popular but that what many people might not know is that sapphires come in many colors beyond deep blue. The necklace above, which is made of sapphire and ruby briolettes, shows just some of the colors this stone can come in.

For those who are unsure about purchasing colored stones, Vance says that while the internet is a great research tool its important to be able to trust your jeweler. She says that at LOLA she likes to have a personal relationship with customers so that she can advice pieces for their particular wants/needs and budget. As she puts it: "once you buy a piece of LOLA Jewelry, I consider you part of the family - even if it's a one-time purchase. Whether it's an engagement ring, a new mother's gift, or a pair of exquisite earrings to show someone how you feel about them, I love being part of life's special occasions; it makes every piece wonderful and exciting!"

Gallery: Lola Jewelry

Filed under: Jewelry

Color for Christmas, Lola Jewelry originally appeared on Luxist on Wed, 18 Nov 2009 14:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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The Cullen House, Estate of the Day

Deidre Woollard — Wed, 18 Nov 2009 13:01:00 EST

The last time that I checked out the website of real estate agent Jason Soprovich it was to check out a home used in a movie and that's what brings me there today as well. Today's estate has made the rounds on a variety of websites in anticipation of the latest installment of the Twilight saga, New Moon, which is about to hit theaters. The modern Vancouver home plays home to the Cullen family on the big screen and is featured in a scene in the movie in which Edward Cullen's adopted brother Jasper attempts to attack Bella Swan.

The five-bedroom home in West Vancouver was designed by Arthur Erickson and was totally renovated in 2001. It has a great room with 20-foot ceilings, massive picture windows and lots of blonde wood. The modern kitchen has a curved fireplace and gleaming countertops. The master suite includes a bathroom with a soaking tub and glass cabinet shower. For warmer weather there is a pool outdoors. This home is listed at $3,298,000.

[Thanks, John!]

Gallery: The Cullen House

Continue reading The Cullen House, Estate of the Day

Filed under: Estates

The Cullen House, Estate of the Day originally appeared on Luxist on Wed, 18 Nov 2009 13:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Glashütte Original Strasser & Rohde Regulator Limited Edition Watch

Ariel Adams — Wed, 18 Nov 2009 12:03:00 EST

Arriving in a limited edition of just 25 pieces is another throw-back style watch model from German Glashutte Original. This is the Strasser & Rohde Regulator watch, which is just that - a traditional style regulator watch. A regulator is a watch where the minutes scale takes charge, filling up the whole dial, while there are subsidiary dials for the hours and minutes. The name refers to the fact that these were historically produced as extra-accurate clocks that were used to "regulate" the time on other smaller clocks and watches. The layout you see is the most typical look for this type of watch.

The hand wound Glashutte Original GO 49-04 watch movement is new and totally in-house made by Glashutte Original. The watch case is 42mm wide and in 18k rose gold. The movement is completely viewable through the rear sapphire caseback window and is stunning to behold. Glashutte Original really did a nice job designing it and decorating it. The dial itself is highly minimalistic, but not in the modern sense. Despite just telling the time, the watch has the added visual interest of subdials, a reason why regulator style watches are so popular these days.

Ariel Adams publishes the luxury watch review site aBlogtoRead.com.

Filed under: Timepieces

Glashütte Original Strasser & Rohde Regulator Limited Edition Watch originally appeared on Luxist on Wed, 18 Nov 2009 12:03:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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The Glorious Chandeliers of the Escher Museum

Annie Scott — Wed, 18 Nov 2009 11:01:00 EST

On my recent visit to Holland, sponsored by the Netherlands Board of Tourism, we ventured up to The Hague (Den Haag) for the Dutch Fashion Awards and some museums. Though it wasn't originally on the itinerary, everyone on the trip was dying to see the Escher Museum (Escher in het Paleis).

The museum is located in the royal Lange Voorhout Palace, and features well kept original fixtures as well as several rooms dedicated to showing what the winter palace of Queen Mother Emma used to look like. Since then, the legendary Dutch graphic artist who's still blowing our minds almost 40 years after his death has been moved in, and the juxtaposition of decadence and mind-bending art is surprisingly harmonious.

If you're taking a trip to Amsterdam, a 45-minute trek up to The Hague is worth it just to see the museum, which not only has a far more extensive Escher collection than any of us believed was possible, but which also features a stunning array of crystal chandeliers in almost every room.

The chandeliers, like the enormous "Rain Cloud" in the foyer (above), are all works by Hans van Bentem (1965), a ceramics and glass artist from Rotterdam who happens to have a penchant for designing elaborate and unusual chandeliers. How unusual are they? Check out the gallery for a crystallized firefly, shark, trophy, umbrella, seahorse and more. The Hans van Bentem chandeliers are an exhibit all their own, and have appeared in the museum's formerly royal rooms since 2003. This is the full collection:

Gallery: Hans van Bentem Chandeliers at the Escher Museum

This trip was paid for by the Netherlands Board of Tourism, but the ideas and opinions expressed in the article above are 100% my own.

Filed under: Journeys, Art

The Glorious Chandeliers of the Escher Museum originally appeared on Luxist on Wed, 18 Nov 2009 11:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Tasting The Classic Malts Selection's Single Malts

Deidre Woollard — Wed, 18 Nov 2009 10:01:00 EST

Most of the world drinks blended whiskies and there are some good reasons for that. Blended whiskies are the work of master blenders who spend years perfecting their craft. They labor over their work combining single malts from various years to create the perfect taste and then maintain it, bottling after bottling. It is a symphony for the palette.

But there are times you don't want the whole symphony and that's where single malts come in. Single malts are used in the blending of whiskies and each hits a particular note that goes into the blending process. Some are fruity, some are smoky, some are grassy and each reflects its unique heritage. If you like a certain note in some whiskies you can pursue that interest through single malts. The Classic Malts Selection spans a wide range of tastes for whisky lovers who enjoy different tastes. For me, it's the smokies. There's something alchemical about an amber liquid that manages to contain the aroma and taste of smoke. In a recent tasting I attended they had us taste the Lagavulin 12 Year Old from Islay ($74.99) last because it's the one that sticks with you. One sip and you will be tasting smoke on your palate for hours. The sensation is not unpleasant. This is a strong whisky, one best opened up with a little water, but there's also an underlying gentleness beyond the immediate peaty char. The water helps the creamy sweetness underneath develop. It's a bit like a drinkable smoked Gouda. In my hastily-typed iPhone notes I called it a 'mac daddy whisky' not just for the taste but also for a certain sensation of swagger that comes with drinking a whisky so totally given over to the smoke. A less intense but still smoky option is the Talisker Distillers Edition ($79.99) it has a similar paneled library appeal, a nose of woodsmoke and leather and a taste that is smoky but a little more fruit-centered.

Continue reading Tasting The Classic Malts Selection's Single Malts

Filed under: Spirits

Tasting The Classic Malts Selection's Single Malts originally appeared on Luxist on Wed, 18 Nov 2009 10:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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