Diamond Cellar

SPRING/SUMMER 2011 A C C E N T/ T H E M A G A Z I N E O F L I F E ’ S C E L E B R AT I O N S

BOLD& BEAUTIFUL! THE NEW GEMSTONES Special Watch Section:

IT’S ABOUT TIME PLUS: Jewelry on the Runways Celebrity Spotlight Gorgeous Gifts!

2011 JOHN HARDY LIMITED

NAGA COLLECTION

WELCOME

Back to our Roots When it comes to repairing, remounting, designing and manufacturing jewelry, there isn’t a retail jeweler in the country that compares to the Diamond Cellar. It’s been in our DNA since our beginning, over 60 years ago. Today, we’re fortunate to have some of the best goldsmiths in the industry working for us. Would it surprise you to know that our facilities are larger than some jewelry manufacturers? It’s true. And yet, it’s one of our best-kept secrets. This year, we’re hoping to change that.

We want you to know that we can help you enjoy your jewelry for a lifetime. Whether that means repairing a broken item to make it wearable again, or remounting gemstones from one piece to create something new, we can help. Or maybe you just want to sell some old pieces to purchase new jewelry? We buy gold, diamonds and watches for cash or store credit.

Discovering money in your jewelry box is easy, and fun. Most people don’t realize how much they’re actually sitting on until they bring it to us. They’re often pleasantly surprised—or just plain shocked—at how much their gold and gemstones are worth at the Diamond Cellar.

Do yourself a favor, and take a look at your jewelry box. You may find that it’s really a treasure chest! And when you’re ready to turn that old jewelry into something you’ll love to wear, we’ll be here. See you then.

Andy Johnson The Diamond Cellar

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Contents spring/summer 2011 6280 Sawmill Road

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Just south of 161 at the corner of Martin Road 614-336-4545 Easton Town Center Next to Smith & Wollensky 614-923-6633 800-222-6642 www.diamondcellar.com

PUBLISHED BY THE BUSINESS J O U R N A L S FA S H I O N G R O U P PUBLISHER

Stu Nifoussi EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

Karen Alberg Grossman C R E AT I V E D I R E C T O R

Hans Gschliesser MANAGING EDITOR

Jillian Sprague PROJECT MANAGER

Lisa Montemorra

FEATURES 1 Welcome Letter

58 Travel: Into Africa 60 Speed: Grand Sport

4 Our People: Doug Von Doersten

62 Perfect Gems

6 Diamond Cellar Events

WATCH SECTION

8 Accent Advisor

42 Watch Advisor 44 Where to Buy: No Time to Lose

12 Columbus Art Pulse: Future Star

46 Interview: Larry Pettinelli of Patek Philippe

14 Gifts for Moms and Dads

48 First Person: Hand-Me-Downs Welcome

18 Diamond Cellar Bridal: Say “I Do” in the Shoe 21 Fashion: Spring Bling 28 Trends: The Joy of Jewelry 32 Profile: Mikimoto

Beth Bernstein DESIGNERS

Cynthia Lucero Jean-Nicole Venditti

10 Columbus Art Pulse: In Bloom

16 Re-Design: A Ring of Beauty

CONTRIBUTING EDITOR

PRODUCTION MANAGER

Peg Eadie DIRECTOR OF PREPRESS

Hugh K. Stanton PRESIDENT AND CEO

Britton Jones CHAIRMAN AND COO

50 Celebrity Ambassadors: Beautiful Women, Beautiful Watches

Copyright 2011. Published by Business Journals, Inc, P.O. Box 5550, Norwalk,

52 Travel: Watch Lover’s Mecca

CT 06856, 203-853-6015 • Fax: 203-852-8175; Advertising Office: 1384

54 What’s New: Fashionably on Time

Broadway, 11th Floor, NY, NY 10018, 212-686-4412 • Fax: 212-686-6821;

36 Fashion: From the Runways

Mac Brighton

ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. The publishers accept no responsibilities for advertisers claims, unsolicited manuscripts, transparencies or other materials. No part of

56 Columbus Food & Wine: Warm Weather Wines

this magazine may be reproduced without written permission of the publishers. Volume 9, Issue 1. Printed In The U.S.A.

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OUR PEOPLE

Doug Von Doersten A FEW QUESTIONS FOR THE DIAMOND CELLAR’S CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER & VICE PRESIDENT OF HUMAN RESOURCES

What is your job at the Diamond Cellar and how long have you been here?

I’m the Chief Financial Officer and Vice President of Human Resources.

I have been here 10 years, as of March 31st. But who’s counting?

How does the jewelry business compare to what you’ve done in the past?

It certainly matches the intensity and passion of my prior endeavors—with the added personal and emotional element that resonates with the romantic in me. Although I do not frequent the sales floor, I love helping our customers select that perfect item and, in some way, sharing in their celebration.

What’s your favorite part of your job and why?

I love working with people who strive to be the best at what they do, and who have the passion and humility to achieve that goal.

What is the greatest personal or professional challenge you’ve faced?

Where do I start? I have been blessed to have had so many—each helping me grow beyond where I ever could have without them.

Who has been your biggest influence?

My father, Ed, first and foremost. Each of my bosses, particularly Andy Johnson. And of course my entire family.

What’s the best lesson you’ve ever learned?

In my career, especially as VP of Human Resources, I’ve learned to try to understand each person’s perspective.

If you weren’t a CFO, what might you be doing for a living?

I would definitely be a bag boy for my brother carting his equipment from country to country—he’s the mountain climber/photographer/ adventurer in the family!

What do you do to unwind; do you have any hobbies?

When I’m not here or spending time with my family, I enjoy gardening, golfing, mountain and road biking and roller-blading. I also like to run, do Pilates and read.

Where is your favorite vacation spot?

Kiawah, South Carolina.

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SCAN. EXPLORE.

FIND YOUR TAG HEUER

Invented in 1887 by Edouard Heuer and reengineered for our new in-house Calibre 1887 movement, the oscillating pinion enables our CARRERA chronograph to start in less than 2/1000th of a second.

1.866.675.2080 www.tagheuer.com

PHOTO BY SCOTT CUNNINGHAM

DIAMOND CELLAR EVENTS

VisitingArtists LAST FALL, THE DIAMOND CELLAR WELCOMED WORLD-CLASS DESIGNERS ROBERTO COIN AND STEPHEN WEBSTER TO COLUMBUS. BY ALEX KINSEL

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Cellar’s Andy Johnson is proud to reinforce, saying, “We are extremely fortunate to have such close associations with magnificent designers like Roberto Coin and Stephen Webster. To have them visit is a real thrill for our customers.”’

Many may not realize exactly what a treat it is to have these influential jewelry artists visit the region. Between the two of them, Coin and Webster have seen their pieces show up on the likes of Madonna, Katy Perry, Brooke Shields and Diane Lane—just to name a few. The Diamond Cellar hopes that by allowing the public a chance to meet the men behind the jewelry, they’ll gain deeper insight into the brands. As Coin himself says, “When you’re wearing a piece of mine, you’re wearing me; there is no disconnection between where my hand ends and the jewelry begins.” By giving customers a chance to meet these incredibly talented gentlemen, the Diamond Cellar hopes that buyers can gain a personal connection to the jewelry, that a piece by one of the men they’ve met may just become their favorite.

n October of 2010, the Diamond Cellar was beyond privileged to welcome two world-renowned jewelry designers to Columbus.

Roberto Coin and Stephen Webster both took time out of their hectic schedules to not only visit the Sawmill Road location, but also to meet and mingle with Diamond Cellar customers. Fresh from London, England and Vicenza, Italy, respectively, Webster and Coin were more than gracious with the collected, speaking about their passion for jewelry design and meeting jewelry enthusiasts from the region.

With the appearances of these two design world luminaries, the Diamond Cellar is proud to continue a tradition of bringing some of the world’s greatest jewelry designers to the region (New York’s David Yurman visited in 2009). The fact that these designers are willing to make a trip to the midwest is a rare thing indeed and speaks to the degree of intimacy the Diamond Cellar forges with the designers whose lines we carry. The strength of these relationships is something the Diamond

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Top: Stephen Webster event at The Social, October 11, 2010. Stephen brought in his “7 Deadly Sins� collection of limited edition rings, and clients had fun trying them on, along with all the other unique and beautiful jewelry. Bottom: Roberto Coin event at M at Miranova, October 26, 2010. Of special interest were three outfits tailored from spun silver and gold, which were designed by Roberto and modeled by three lovely young ladies.

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ACCENTADVISOR

HOW DO I MIX FINE AND FASHION JEWELRY?

I’VE BEEN SEEING A LOT OF BLACK USED IN FINE JEWELRY. WHAT ARE THE KEY

Use a pretty black dress or a simple top as the backdrop for mixing pieces. Wear a gold medallion

STONES AND METALS, AND HOW CAN I WEAR THEM?

pendant along with multiple chains in blackened and tonal antiqued base metal. Or you can mix in real baroque pearls with a large colored pendant in crystal rather than a precious gem. A low-risk way to mix real and faux is on the wrist; you have more room to be playful as it’s further from your face. Here, mix leather or suede wrap styles with pavé charms, or Bakelite and wood with precious stones. Throw in some high karat gold thin bangles to create a truly eclectic look. This season, designers are even mixing these materials into one piece to offer a statement at an affordable price. But if you prefer simplicity, stick to a pair of cuffs in wood with center gemstones, and a mesh necklace with chains of matte gold. The combination will be different and dramatic, and take you through the season in style.

The trend started with designers adding a black rhodium finish to white gold and mixing it with high karat yellow gold for a richer look. As the darker metal began to sell and the prices for gold went up, the next step was to use blackened or highly oxidized silver. (Some designers still use black rhodium plated 18K white gold, which can mean a slightly higher price tag.) These metals look great with the of-the-moment diamonds—also black—which are spectacular in rose, brilliant and polished rough cuts. Black can be done in styles from gothic to feminine, such as pavé leaves and flowers with a black diamond center. If you want to add color to your black jewelry look, try a hint of rough cut fancy sapphires, the pretty watercolor shades of moonstones and aquamarines, or the

IMAGES COURTESY OF JOHN HARDY

more saturated orange hues of citrines.

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MODERN ROCK CANDY® IN 18K GOLD WITH GEMSTONES. ©2011 IPPOLITA®. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.

COLUMBUS ART PULSE Columbus Museum of Art

In Bloom

Franklin Park Conservatory

Columbus Museum of Art After over a year of major renovations, the Columbus Museum of Art finally opened all of its doors to the public in early 2011. Due to ongoing construction in many of its wings, the jewel of the Columbus art community was limited to a single exhibit for much of the 2010 calendar year—a Chihulay retrospective titled Chihulay Illuminated. Now the museum staff is eager to invite the community back to experience the fruit of its $6.9 million dollar expansion, such as the new and improved Derby Court. Once an outdoor courtyard that buttressed the end of the museum, it was converted years ago to an event center but never fully integrated with the building. Newly renovated, its sunken floor has been raised to the same level as the surrounding galleries and the blasé thick skylights have been removed in favor of a vaulted glass ceiling.

Throughout the rest of the CMA, changes abound—from repainted galleries to freshly installed skylights to new seating in the auditorium. The Broad Street-stationed museum isn’t finished; this is only stage one of a proposed three-tier renovation with an expected price tag of $80 million.

Looks like they’re well on their way.

Franklin Park Conservatory After another spirit-bruising Columbus winter, there may be no better way to welcome spring then with a visit to the Columbus’ long-standing botanical garden, The Franklin Park Conservatory. The Conservatory, located just east of downtown, has been a Columbus landmark since its construction in 1895. With its collection of more than 400 plant species across 88 acres, the Conservatory is a perfect place to thaw out. Through April stop by to see the Orchid Forest, where hundreds of tropical orchids flood the Conservatory’s Tropical Rainforest. Or come back later in the season for the annual Blooms and Butterflies event. This yearly exhibit features hundreds of exotic butterflies fluttering through the Conservatory’s rooms and remains one of Columbus’ most visited annual attractions.

Upcoming Exhibitions and Events: Columbus Museum of Art Opening May 2011: Street Talk and Spiritual Matters, Aminah’s Mt. Vernon Avenue Opening June 2011: Currents, Stephanie Syjuco Columbus Symphony Orchestra Cirque de la Symphonie: April 2, 2011 8pm Peter Stafford Wilson, conductor Beethoven’s Eroica: April 9, 2011 8pm & April 10, 2011 3pm Mei-Ann Chen, conductor

Columbus Symphony Orchestra When 36-year-old Jean-Marie Zeitouni was appointed as musical director of the Columbus Symphony Orchestra in late 2010, it was clear that change was in the air for the symphony as it played on towards its 50th season. In the short time since, Zeitouni—a native of Montreal—has for all intents and purposes taken the reigns of the symphony. Not only will he decide the symphony’s repertoire and programming for the next four seasons, but he’ll also oversee the overarching artistic direction of the organization. Zeitouni is plenty familiar with central Ohio’s only full-time symphony; he has guest conducted the group three times in the past and looks forward to living in the city for the next four years. Though on the young side for a music director, Zeitouni’s impressive resume shows he has the chops to lead one of the nation’s most revered symphonies. In the past, he’s been the guest conductor of the Montreal Symphony, the Houston Symphony and the Vancouver Symphony, among other high-profile engagements.

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Jean-Marie Zeitouni

PHOTOS BY SCOTT CUNNINGHAM

FROM THE ART MUSEUM RENOVATION TO THE SYMPHONY’S NEW MUSICAL DIRECTOR, THE COLUMBUS ARTS SCENE IS BLOOMING. BY ALEX KINSEL

COLUMBUS ART PULSE

FutureStar CCAD STUDENT JERRICA A. FIELDS CAPTURES DIAMOND CELLAR’S EYE AND WINS COMPETITION BY ALEX KINSEL

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fter careful deliberation, the Diamond Cellar is pleased to announce Jerrica A. Fields, a Fine Arts major at the Columbus College of Art and Design, as the winner of our jewelry design competition. The competition, which was spurred by the long-standing relationship between CCAD and the Diamond Cellar, pitted Fields against 14 other classmates in Kelly Malec-Kosak’s jewelry design course. Worldclass designers Michael Bondanza, Charles Krypell, Steven Lagos, Christopher Slowinski and Diamond Cellar’s own in-house designers weighed in on the class’ designs.

Students were responsible for not only designing the pieces, but also

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for developing a presentation that showcased both their creativity and marketing savvy. Judges were instructed to look for designs that had high levels of wear- and sale-ability.

At the end of the competition, Fields’ “Signature” bracelet design emerged as the clear winner. Her prize? $1,000 towards the manufacture of her final design and showcase space at the Diamond Cellar’s 2011 Designer’s Gala.

“This experience has been so exciting and motivating,” Fields says.

“The prize money is not only helping me create this single piece, it’s also making my long-time dream of a home jewelry studio a reality.”

GIFTS FOR MOMS AND DADS

Marco Bicego Jaipur bracelets, starting at $890

Baume & Mercier Stainless steel Classima automatic, $2,690 David Yurman From the Confetti collection in sterling silver with blue topaz, necklace $1,100, earrings $695

Rolex 31mm Datejust in stainless steel and white gold with diamond bezel and dial, $13,100

Aaron Basha 18K gold bracelet starting at $3,800, 18K gold charms starting at $1,600

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Sterling silver, citrine and peridot necklace with pearls, 49” length, $150

Stephen Webster Men’s bracelets, starting at $350 Aaron Basha Baseball cufflinks, $8,650

Sterling silver long necklace with assorted pearls and agates, $150

John Hardy Kali Arus drop pendant on 36” chain necklace, $450 Kali Arus slim bangles, set of three, $595

TAG Heuer Ladies Formula 1 in stainless steel and white ceramic, $1,400

36” multicolor quartz necklaces in 14K gold, $1,225 each

RE-DESIGN

A Ring of Beauty ALLISON VAN ARTSDALEN WAS THRILLED TO WIN THE DIAMOND CELLAR’S REDESIGN CONTEST. NOW SHE HAS A RING SHE’LL BE PROUD TO OWN FOR A LIFETIME. BY TRAVIS HOEWISCHER

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llison Van Artsdalen was so happy with her engagement ring, she could hardly have imagined a time when it wasn’t the most noticeable piece on her hand.

But that’s exactly the case now, and she has the Diamond Cellar to thank—both for her engagement ring and her new-and-improved version of a family heirloom she was able to update after winning the Diamond Cellar’s re-design contest.

In August of 2010, The 22-year-old Capital nursing student noticed an ad for the contest in our magazine and decided she had some great ideas for a way to modernize a ring that belonged to her grandmother. Allison said the ring “wasn’t her style” and she had barely worn it as a result.

She was invited to work hand-in-hand with DC designer Chris Hill, who would take Allison’s sketches and ideas and turn the ring into a modern marvel. What once was a very large cocktail ring with asymmetrical lines and a yellow-gold setting became a smaller, smoother ring with a white gold setting and a more symmetrical feel.

“It was a really rewarding thing,” Allison said of working with Hill on the project. “It was really exciting to get exactly what I wanted; not very many people get that chance to get a custom piece and on top of that, get to work side-by-side with the designer. It was a great opportunity.”

The main challenge for the project was updating the ring to a style she was more in tune with, but still one that would maintain some parts of the original.

“To me, the important part of the original was the stones; that’s what really holds sentimental value,” she said.

Now, she says, the ring gets more attention than her engagement ring.

When she looks down at it, it brings back fond memories of both her grandmother and the process. Her fiancé, Matthew Stephens, doesn’t mind, says Allison. After all, he was the one who told her about the contest and helped her come up with designs via e-mail and phone. The project was a fun bonding experience for the long-distance couple.

“He’s very into jewelry,” she said. “He likes looking for stuff for me all the time—I’m not mad about that.”

Top: Allison gets her first look at the ring in three dimensions, after approving a sketch by Goldsmith Designer Christine Cooper Hill. This is the second step in the custom design process, when the ring is carved in wax and set with diamonds. Once the wax is approved, the piece is cast in metal—in this case, white gold—and finished. Bottom: Allison proudly shows off the complete ring.

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The Mother’s Ring Collection.

Stackable designs custom-made for Mom with the birthstones of her children.

Hand-crafted exclusively at the Diamond Cellar.

DIAMOND CELLAR BRIDAL

Say “I Do” in the Shoe

FOR ADAM LICKER, THE DIAMOND CELLAR’S SAY “I DO” IN THE SHOE CONTEST—WITH A CHANCE TO GET MARRIED IN OHIO STADIUM—WAS A PERFECT WAY TO FINALLY HAVE HIS BIG DAY IN THE SHOE. BY JEN WALKER

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et married inside Ohio Stadium? What a fantastic opportunity!

That’s what we thought when the Diamond Cellar was presented with a chance to offer this prize to local Buckeye fans. When our Say “I Do” in the Shoe contest started we had no idea what type of response we would get to our offer. We all know that Buckeye football is a huge obsession in Columbus—but would engaged couples really want to get married inside the stadium?

The answer was a resounding YES! When the contest launched in September we were absolutely overwhelmed with the number of people who registered to win. As the promotion continued we were tasked with the job of deciding which of the more than 700 registered couples would be the lucky winners—and it was not an easy job! Every story and every couple had great reasons why they should be the winners.

Many met at Ohio State, a few had gotten engaged either at games, during tailgates, or inside the stadium, and even more were just diehard Buckeye Fans who thought this would be the “ultimate” wedding. Several couples submitted really creative videos as part of their registrations and one guy offered up his brother-in-law to dress as a penguin at an OSU football game to help us promote the contest. He was dressed in a black hooded sweatshirt with the message “Penguins Love Ice... Get UR Ice at the Diamond Cellar...

Say I Do In The Shoe.” Needless to say we loved all the thought, effort and

creativity that went into all of these registrations.

Ultimately, though, it came down to one story that we thought stood out from the rest: Adam Licker’s.

Adam had spent two and a half years on the OSU football team as a walk-on linebacker and long snapper. He dreamed of his Senior Day experience in “The Shoe” where he would be announced in front of his teammates and over 100,000 Buckeye faithful and run through the tunnel and into his parent’s embrace. Unfortunately, Adam suffered a careerending back injury and never got to experience his “big moment.”

They say things happen for a reason, and that certainly seems to be the case here. Adam went on to meet Rachel Szames during the pair’s final quarter at OSU, and they started dating. He wrote in his contest registration: “Getting married to Rachel in ‘The Shoe’ would be the chance of a lifetime that would more than make up for my lost senior day. I truly believe that getting injured was a blessing in disguise because Rachel and I would have never begun dating had I finished my career on the team.” How could we possibly say no to Adam and Rachel?

We announced Adam and Rachel as the winners at the OSU vs. Michigan game in November, 2010. The couple is now busy planning their late summer wedding at Ohio Stadium. We will be sure to share pictures of their big day! We do want to offer a big THANK YOU to everyone who registered for Say “I Do” in the Shoe in 2010. The response was truly overwhelming!

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息 2011 NACE Marketing, New York, All Rights Reserved.

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With the support of customers like you, we can give back to the community we love.

Columbus

The Diamond Cellar is proud to support these worthy causes: American Heart Association – Go Red for Women Campaign • American Cancer Society Cattle Baron’s Ball Kids N Kamp • Columbus Academy • Columbus Blue Jackets Foundation • Dublin Women’s Club New Albany Symphony • American Association of Indian Physicians • Columbus Jewish Film Festival Columbus Food & Wine Affair • Big Brother’s Big Sisters • Nationwide Children’s Hospital • March of Domes COSI • Rosemont Center • Ohio Women’s Bar Association • Autism Speaks • Stefanie’s Champions Franklin Park Conservatory • Easter Seals • Ohio Wildlife Center • Central Ohio Arthritis Foundation And many more...

FASHION

Spring Bling BOLD SILVERS AND GOLDS PAIR WITH PASTEL GEMSTONES TO COMPLEMENT SPRING’S NEUTRALS, ANIMAL PRINTS AND SOFT, FLOWING SILHOUETTES. CLOTHING BY ROWE BOUTIQUE

FASHION

Ballerina

by Day A neutral palette is soft and subtle so try punching up this look with a statement dress in the neutral family like this Ali Ro silk and macrame dress paired with a Jeffrey Campbell lace pump and beaded clutch from Santi

Penny Preville Diamond pendant in 18K white gold, $4,775

Stephen Webster Shark Jaw ring, $5,200 Ippolita Sterling silver hammered bangle bracelets, starting at $395

Ippolita Gold dome ring, $995

Orange Crush The color of the season, a vibrant orange shown here in this Robert Rodriguez silk halter romper paired with an Ada sogo belt

Stephen Webster Superstud bracelet, $1,850

Jaeger-LeCoultre Reverso Squadra, $15,500

FASHION

Stephen Webster Gold dome ring, $995

Marina Minx Joie makes the perfect nautically inspired striped maxi paired with Ada's studded rolling belt, a rafia fedora from Hat Attack and a pair of Cocobelle sandals

Michael Bondanza Exotic wood bracelets, $3,795 (as on model, other prices vary)

Stephen Webster Superstud necklace, $1,650

Animal Magnetism A safari inspired linen anorak from Ali Ro is the perfect complement to this metallic sequined dress from Parker, accented with a bold animal printed DVF clutch

Rolex Datejust 36mm in stainless steel and 18K gold with diamond bezel, $13,925

Roberto Coin Capri Plus ebony and diamond ring, $1,848

FASHION

Charles Krypell Gold and diamond Figure 8 necklace, $31,980

Penny Preville diamond earrings, $5,865

Minimal Femme This strong yet subtly draped dress from Ever makes a statement all on its own accented simply with a beaded Santi clutch

Diamond eternity bracelet, prices vary

Roberto Coin Amethyst and mother of pearl ring in rose gold with diamonds, $8,300 Marco Bicego Paradise Perle necklace, $4,470

She Wears the Pants A feminine soft cropped pinstripe blazer and silk top both from Robert Rodriguez are the perfect complement to a strong menswear-inspired pant like these from Yoana Baraschi, shown with pair of Kelsi Dagger gladiator heels

Charles Krypell Gold and diamond Figure 8 bracelet, $17,400 Ippolita Gelato bangle in mother of pearl and 18K gold, $3,650

All clothing and accessories by Rowe Boutique www.roweboutique.com

TRENDS

The Joy of Jewelry COLORFUL GEMS FIT FASHION’S BRIGHT OUTLOOK

BY LORRAINE DEPASQUE

THE GEMS Adam Graham, marketing director of The American Gem Trade Association (AGTA), agrees that bright blues and greens, as well as shades of purple, are leading trends in colored gemstone jewelry this year. Among the azures, he points to traditional blue sapphire, aquamarine and blue topaz, but emphasizes that lesser-known stones like labradorite, turquoise, blue moonstone, chalcedony, tanzanite and blue shaded black onyx are extremely significant as well. With dramatically-sized jewelry in vogue, it helps that many of the latter gemstones can be purchased in high quality at affordable prices.

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IMAGES COURTESY OF DAVID YURMAN, STEPHEN WEBSTER, ROBERTO COIN

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his season, there’s one simple rule on the road to great jewelry style: Don’t get stuck in neutral! Get into gear and follow the direction of spring 2011 fashion, which is all about color.

Does this mean that neutrals like black—so strong these past few years—are no longer fashionable? Is it time to abandon your Little Black Dress? “Absolutely not,” says Meredith Smith, designer and cultural trend analyst at The Doneger Group in New York City. “Even though fashion’s biggest names flooded the spring runways with bright-colored clothes, you can still wear your classic LBD. However, the perennial cocktail classic and other neutral-toned attire needs to be popped with colorful jewelry and accessories. Right now, our culture is all about finding joy; adorning ourselves in happy, escapist colors (like bright blues and greens) is one way to do that.”

ǁ ǁ ǁ͘ Ă Ă ƌ Ž Ŷ ď Ă Ɛ Ś Ă ͘ Đ Ž ŵ

LAYERING NECKLACES While models strutted down

“This year, you’re also going to see more engagement ring center stones in blues and greens,” notes Graham. “Kate Middleton’s blue sapphire from Prince William has re-ignited the trend that his mother, Princess Diana, started back in 1981, when she received the engagement ring from Prince Charles. Blue sapphire is a great option for women who don’t want to be too ‘bling,’ and at the same time, it’s a high-end gem of great color.”

At the AGTA’s annual Spectrum jewelry design awards for 2011, Graham tells us, “One of the winning pieces was a platinum ring with a neongreen tsavorite center stone. Our panel of judges, all in the fashion or jewelry industries, said it represents a definite style direction.”

In fact, many of the best jewelry designers are also premiering dazzling fashion collections with great green gems, especially green tourmalines, peridots, green diamonds, emeralds, green agates, green sapphires and tsavorites. “And for the past year,” says Graham, “celebrity stylists have been requesting to borrow green gemstone jewelry for their A-list clients to wear to awards shows.”

The green jewelry they’ve been borrowing will coordinate with many red carpet fashion styles according to Leatrice Eiseman, executive director of The Pantone Color Institute, which named ‘Peapod’ green as one of its top fashion colors for spring/summer. “We’ve learned that green really works well as a neutral and we see people more inclined to wear it on a regular basis,” she says.

This past fall, Pantone chose ‘Purple Orchid’ as its number-one fashion color and, for spring/summer, the passion for purple continues, with ‘Lavender’ in its top ten selection. Jewelry designers are showing violet gem creations in everything from deep amethysts and fancy purple sapphires to pastel pinky-purple sugilites and quartzes.

the runways wearing mega-necklaces, in this case you have another option. Instead of investing in one massive neck piece, a more practical purchase might be to buy several long chains and links that can each be doubled or tripled. With layering necklaces, you can experiment and create many different looks, for both daywear and evening. Play with the necklaces, graduating the lengths differently to accommodate the neckline of whatever you’re wearing. To complete the look, add a 16-inch chain with a pendant or enhancer. In this season of bold color, choose one with a bright gemstone center.

EPIC RINGS Typically, you ladies buy these supersized and super stylish rings for yourself. (Well, why not—you deserve it!) They’re statement pieces that reflect your personality and personal style, so be sure to select gemstones you really like—plus, since it’s on your hand, you’ll be looking at it all day. Should you invest a lot of money in this epic ring? That depends, to some degree, on whether you’ll be wearing it every day or if you’ll want to buy several and switch—much like some people do with watches. Unlike the big cocktail rings of eras past, the epic ring is no longer a dress-up-only accessory.

GUMDROP EARRINGS And you thought gumdrops were just those chewy sugar-coated candies you shouldn’t be eating! Think again: It’s the season’s strongest earring silhouette. More medium-large than ultra-large in size, this drop-style earring focuses on one prominent colored gem that hangs to about mid-neck.

It’s classic, yet, at the same time, fashion. Ask your jeweler about the earrings’ stone shape and cut. Some gumdrops have slices of color with a flat bottom, allowing light to pass through the gemstone, much in the way natural light shines through a stained glass window.

MORE THAN ONE METAL COLOR No, you can’t be a yellow-only or white-only jewelry lover anymore. It just isn’t fashionable. If most—or all—of your jewelry is still the same metal color that you’ve been wearing forever, this is the season to start collecting pieces made in different surface colors. If you want to stick to karat gold for your precious metal, that’s okay, but there are many different gold colors to choose from: rose, blackened and sometimes peach. Even the texture on a piece slightly changes the look of the color. (For example, a high-polished blackened gold bracelet will appear to have a different hue than a satin-finished or matte blackened gold piece.) Once you begin to add different colored pieces to your jewelry wardrobe, you’ll see how all the shades really do work together.

And no need to worry if you don’t have “enough” of a certain color when you start. Part of the fun of jewelry is collecting it over time.

FIVE TO BUY Now that you know what these post-winter pickme-up colors and coordinating gemstones are, which jewelry pieces in particular should you be considering? Ultimately that depends on your individual style as well as what jewelry you already own, but here are the five jewelry must-haves we highly recommend: BIG BANGLES The number-one jewelry item adorning spring runway models was the big bangle, and they usually wore two or three per arm. The uber bangles—not slim stackables and not ultra-wide cuffs—almost always featured stones, beads, or some sort of bright embellishment.

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k e e p a Take son a e s s i h t e w at Ro A clothing, accessory, and jewelry boutique located in the Short North for the customer with a discerning taste. roweboutique.com 718 N. High Street, Columbus, Ohio 43215 Find us on Facebook and Twitter

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PROFILE Mikimoto strands are world-renowned for their perfectly matched pearls; this process becomes exponentially more difficult when strands are longer.

Timeless Beauty

MIKIMOTO CULTURED PEARLS—A PERFECT BALANCE OF TRADITION AND INNOVATION BY KAREN ALBERG GROSSMAN

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A Unique History

After many years of trials and tribulations, Kokichi Mikimoto succeeded in creating the world’s first cultured pearl in 1893. He then sent artisans on missions to Europe to master the techniques of jewelry production and design. This knowledge, supplemented by the Japanese aesthetics of form, line and workmanship, produced the distinctive originality of Mikimoto designs. In 1899, equipped with his first collection, Mr. Mikimoto opened the first Mikimoto Pearl Store, Japan’s first specialty pearl shop, in Tokyo’s Ginza district. After improving his cultivating and harvesting techniques, he was able to ship his product overseas, making cultured pearls available to women around the world.

IMAGES COURTESY OF MIKIMOTO

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f all the love stories over the ages, does anything beat the intensity of Cleopatra and Marc Antony? Betting him that she could consume the wealth of an entire nation in one meal, Cleopatra removed a pearl earring, crushed it, and drank the powder mixed with wine. Under her spell and hopelessly enchanted, Antony neglected his duties to the Roman Empire, thus changing forever the course of history.

Since ancient times, pearls have indeed symbolized everything from purity of love to victory in battle. From symbol of chastity to mystical aphrodisiac, pearls have reflected the power of love. Worn by ancient Greeks at their wedding ceremonies to ensure marital bliss (and prevent new brides from crying), pearls are worn today by modern brides for strangely similar reasons. After all this time, pearls still represent innocence, sophistication and timeless beauty.

In 1893, Kokichi Mikimoto successfully created the world’s first cultured pearl, launching today’s cultured pearl industry and making cultured pearls available to women all over the world. The company is internationally respected for its dedication to beauty and quality. Since each pearl is as different and individual as a fingerprint, quality grading standards are essential. Mikimoto has maintained the highest standards of quality and consistency by devoting more than a century to understanding the sea and researching the oyster. They’ve developed a proprietary grading system,

Is there treasure lurking in your jewelry box?

Whether doing simple repairs or full custom jewelry design, our goldsmith designers are some of the most talented craftspeople in the country. So if you have a piece of jewelry that you don’t wear–whether it’s broken or just not in style anymore–you can trust the Diamond Cellar to fix it or create something new you’ll love.

Redesigning a piece of jewelry is a fun, interactive and affordable process. Because you’ll work directly with a designer, you will get a piece that’s uniquely you. And because it’s from the Diamond Cellar, it will last a lifetime.

Or, if it’s something you simply don’t want anymore, consider selling it to us for cash or store credit. Turn that old jewelry into new items you’ll actually wear. Once you start looking in your jewelry box, you may be surprised what you’ll find.

Repair • Redesign • Custom Design • Trade-In

unique within the cultured pearl industry. Although no single factor can solely represent the worth of a pearl, luster and surface perfection are most important. There are four Mikimoto grades: A, A+, AA and AAA, with AAA being the highest quality. A mere three to five pearls out of every 100 harvested are deemed worthy to bear the Mikimoto name.

While there is nothing more cherished than a classic strand of Mikimoto pearls, numerous fashion options abound. For 2011, these include:

LONGER STRANDS Ranging in length from 32 to an astounding 100 inches, these longer strands are the perfect accessory and a wonderful gift for today’s modern woman. Taking the classic beauty of a traditional choker to a whole new level, these versatile strands, whether worn for day or evening, alone or layered with another piece of jewelry, add glamour to any occasion.

Not only a unique fashion look, these long strands truly showcase the superior quality for which Mikimoto is revered. Each strand is a work of art, requiring incredible skill, judgment and craftsmanship. Mikimoto strands are worldrenowned for their perfectly matched pearls and this process becomes exponentially more difficult when strands are longer. Demanding the finest judgment and artistic sense, only Mikimoto has the ability to sort and match such long lengths of pearls.

PEARLS IN MOTION

contrast to the classic, feminine elegance of white pearls, Mikimoto Black South Seas are pearls with attitude, emitting an air of confidence. Day or night, from the boardroom to the runway, Black South Sea pearls are the perfect complement to any outfit, and an icon of style and taste. Because of their breathtaking natural hues, fashion mavens and connoisseurs alike consider Mikimoto’s Black South Sea cultured pearls to be among the most distinctive of all gems. With their hypnotic depth of color ranging from light gray to peacock green to midnight black, these treasures of the sea seem lit from within, conferring a remarkable radiance and sophistication upon those fortunate enough to wear them.

In 1914, Kokichi Mikimoto established a culturing site for Black South Sea pearl oysters on Ishigaki Island in Okinawa, Japan. Since that time, the brand has remained the authority on Black South Sea cultured pearls of the highest quality. Almost a century later, Black South Sea jewelry remains a formidable fashion trend as style-savvy consumers are embracing these gems as never before. Mikimoto’s international design team uses Black South Sea cultured pearls to create jewels of impeccable style and quality, from a perfectly-matched choker to a multi-colored 45” strand that can be layered or wrapped.

CARING FOR PEARLS

The rules are simple:

Wipe gently with a soft cloth after wearing and store separately so they don’t get scratched.

Remember: pearls are organic gemstones, and thus vulnerable to acid, alkaline and humidity. That said, pearls beg to be worn; left alone in a box they risk dehydration, so wear them often and flaunt your elegance and style!

With Pearls in Motion, the possibilities are unlimited. This unique concept in jewelry design offers the versatility to wear Mikimoto cultured pearls in an infinite number of ways. Place the cultured pearls anywhere along the slim, elegant chain. The gems will remain in place thanks to Mikimoto’s exclusive, patented mechanism.

BLACK SOUTH SEA Mikimoto Black South Sea cultured pearls, with their exotic origins and mysterious color palette, are a versatile must-have for today’s trendsetters looking to make an edgy fashion statement. In direct

BAROQUE COUTURE COLLECTION

The natural beauty of Mikimoto’s Baroque South Sea cultured pearls is derived from their superb luster and irregular, yet beautiful, silhouettes. The unique organic shapes of these pearls make them a constant marvel to behold, a true fashion statement and conversation piece.

Baroque Couture is a collection of one-of-a-kind Mikimoto jewelry inspired by the Baroque pearl. The Baroque Couture Collection uses the distinctive shape and size of each individual pearl as the subject of each exclusive design. Nature determines the setting and Mikimoto designers fulfill each pearl’s destiny.

Says Amy Kim-Araneo, Mikimoto’s vice president of product development and design: “Designing baroque pearl jewelry is incredibly exciting and challenging because no two pearls are alike, so each piece takes on its own personality. The unique shape of each pearl truly dictates the design…as if it knows what it wants to be. The organic, fluid designs of Baroque Couture really conform to the body and showcase a more modern, less traditional look in pearl jewelry.”

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Like color?

The colored stone jewelry collection, exclusively at Diamond Cellar.

FASHION

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SUBSTANTIAL PENDANTS PROVIDE PERFECT CONTRAST TO PRETTY PRINTS

Runways

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ON SPRING 2011 RUNWAYS ACROSS THE GLOBE.

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FASHION LAYER HEARTS OVER LACE FOR AN ON-TREND VINTAGE LOOK

A LITTLE SHINE GOES A LONG WAY…

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getty 1 / Peter Dazeley

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WHAT TO KNOW WHEN IT COMES TO YOUR TIMEPIECES

WATCH ADVISOR

IS IT OKAY TO WEAR A SPORTS WATCH AS AN EVERYDAY WATCH?

IMAGE COURTESY OF TW STEEL

If you love it, why not?

Unless you’re talking about a tacky plastic watch, most of today’s better sports watches are thin enough to wear as an everyday watch, and offer features that most of us appreciate even at home or in the office. These can include water resistance, built-in chronographs, readable dials and various subdials, calendars and other complications.

That said, there’s nothing classier than a beautiful dress watch and for spring 2011, classical elegance is all the rage. Our suggestion: build a watch wardrobe that includes both sports and dress watches and alternate according to the occasion, and your mood.

WHAT ARE MECHANICAL WATCHES AND WHY ARE THEY SO EXPENSIVE?

As opposed to quartz watches that function electronically, a mechanical watch is driven by a spring which must be periodically wound. A series of gears power the balance wheel, which oscillates back and forth at a constant rate. A device called an escapement releases the wheels with each swing of the balance wheel, moving the hands forward at a constant rate and creating a ticking sound. It’s technology dating back to 17th century Europe, and the expense is the design, the old world craftsmanship, the maintenance and replacement parts, and of course the intrinsic value of precious metals and other fine materials.

But for those whose hearts beat to the pulse of a mechanical timepiece, there’s nothing else quite like it!

I HAVE MY GRANDFATHER’S TIMEPIECE FROM THE 1950 S ; IS IT WORTH THE INVESTMENT TO RESTORE IT?

GETTY 1/ RTI IMAGES

T H E D E C I S I O N T O R E S T O R E A V I N TA G E T I M E P I E C E is part rational (Will the restored timepiece be worth more?) and part emotional (This is my grandfather’s watch!). Bottom line: the joy of wearing an heirloom, especially one with family history, is unique and priceless.

That said, only you can decide if it’s worth the investment. Once you’ve made the decision to restore your vintage timepiece, entrust it only to a qualified technician with proper training in assessing and working on older timepiece movements. Improper repair of an older watch can damage the movement irreparably. Incorrect replacement parts, finishing techniques and lubrication are just some of the issues we’ve seen.

In general, older timepieces cannot be expected to function with the same level of accuracy as new models. However, if properly restored, the watch should be suitable for daily wear. One must allow ample time for the work to be completed, as parts might not be readily available, and the technician might have to search the marketplace for the proper part, or in some cases, make the part by hand.

Once the work is done, consider enhancing your newly restored vintage watch with an interesting strap—perhaps one in a bold color or with contrast stitching—to make a unique statement.

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WHAT TO KNOW WHEN IT COMES TO YOUR TIMEPIECES

WATCH ADVISOR

I'M ABOUT TO INVEST IN A WATCH AND WOULD LIKE TO KNOW MORE ABOUT ITS COMPLICATIONS. CAN YOU HELP? Moon Phase Subdial Strap

30-Minute Register for Chronograph Second Counter for Chronograph

Lug Hour Marker or Index

Repeating Slide (Chimes Time Aloud When Activated)

Start/Stop for Chronograph Minute Hand

Hour Hand Crown

Second Hand

Date Indicator

Day of Week Indicator Year Indicator

Reset for Chronograph

Bezel

Month Indicator

Dial (Below the Hands)

ILLUSTRATION BY HARRY BATES; INFORMATION PROVIDED BY JOHN HORNE

12-Hour Register for Chronograph

Crystal (Above the Hands)

Understanding the parts and functions of a timepiece can help you select the style that’s right for you. It’s also helpful later, when your watch requires service or repair. This particular model has both time-telling and time-keeping capabilities. The chronograph, for time-keeping, is essentially an advanced stopwatch.

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by Travis Hoewischer

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NO TIME TO LOSE WHY BUYING FROM AN AUTHORIZED DEALER MAKES SENSE

iamond Cellar’s watch buyer has had to be the bearer of the worst tidings: Sorry to say, but this watch, the pretty one you just spent a paycheck or two on… is fake.

“There are a few times every year when a customer will bring in their watch for service, one that was not purchased from us, and we have to deliver the bad news that when we opened the watch, we discovered it was not authentic and so we are unable to service their timepiece,” she says.

Cue the sad violin music. In the arena of high-end Swiss watches, she urges that, in order to avoid taking a licking on a phony watch, it is best to follow the time-honored adage of getting what you paid for.

“If a doctor were offering his or her service for far less than you would estimate its worth, wouldn’t you wonder about the quality of what you would be getting?” she says.

While the prices on the gray market may be enticing, there are several long-term advantages buying legit can have, she says.

“If you buy off of the gray market you don’t know the watch’s history,” she says. “Did it sit in a case for three years before ending up on the Internet? Does it have substitute parts in the movement? Will it be traced back to the gray market and keep you from getting it serviced when it stops running?

“When you are spending a fair amount for a Swiss watch, I don’t

think the amount of money you might be saving is worth the amount of risk you are taking. I see it often enough.”

It doesn’t mean that the Internet can’t be used as a tool to price and gather more information on different Swiss pieces. There are a few companies that are starting to partner with their retailers in Internet sales but again, if that brand doesn’t list that source as an authorized “e-tailer,” steer clear, she says.

The Swiss watch community also received a victory in the Supreme Court, where the recent Costco v. Omega judgement will help block copyrighted products purchased overseas from being sold in some U.S. stores. The lawsuit sets precedence for the Swiss watch community, she says, “whose biggest competitor has always been their own brand on the gray market.”

“By shutting down these re-sellers, the manufacturers protect the consumer from being duped,” she says. “These watches are purchased by a middle-man overseas and resold here. They are, in essence, secondhand, and therfore don’t carry the original warranty.”

As for spotting a fake, our buyer says it’s nearly impossible for the average person given the voracity of today’s replica market. “Replica manufacturers are so savvy these days that the only way to be sure is to be sure of who you are buying it from,” she says.

That’s advice you can count on, just like your precision timepiece.

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“Sorry to say, but this watch, the pretty one you just spent a paycheck or two on... is fake.”

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raymond-weil.com

| freelancer collection

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THE NEXT GENERATION PATEK PHILIPPE IS ALWAYS LOOKING AHEAD.

P

atek Philippe has long been regarded as the epitome of watchmaking.

This legendary family-owned, Geneva-based brand has been crafting some of the finest watches in the world since 1839. Indeed, it has an impressive 70 patents to its credit and has won an amazing number of awards throughout its existence. Still, the brand continues to push the technological envelope, always on the cutting edge of research and development in an effort to bring the best horological masterpieces to the forefront. This manufacture produces everything in house according to the strictest standards of excellence.

For this and other reasons, the brand can easily stand by its tagline: “You never really own a Patek Philippe; you merely look after it for the next generation.” Indeed, perhaps more so than any other watch brand, Patek Philippe timepieces hold their value from decade to decade, century to century. In fact, Patek Philippe holds a record for achieving 15 of the 16 highest

prices ever paid for a timepiece at auction. What’s more, at a Christie’s auction this past spring, a one-of-a-kind 1944 Ref. 1527 chronograph garnered $5.7 million, breaking a record for any yellow gold watch ever sold at auction.

Naturally, the value of these watches lies in their incredible workmanship and esteemed complexity. Patek Philippe makes about 42,000 watches per year for worldwide consumption— and of the more complicated pieces, a very limited number are built. Only the finest, handpicked jewelers around the globe are selected to carry this brand.

Here, in an exclusive interview, Larry Pettinelli, president of Patek Philippe, USA, discusses the steadfast commitment of the brand to excellence and its belief that even the younger generation—one that flicks open its iPhones to check the time—can still

The value of these watches lies in the incredible workmanship and esteemed complexity.

Above: Men’s Annual Calendar, Ladies’ Nautilus 46

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understand the affinity for a timepiece New York (instead of Switzerland). that will long outlast them.

“We also work more closely than ever Pettinelli has been at the helm of with our retail jewelers to give them and Patek Philippe in the U.S. for four years their customers access to what they need now, but he has been with the company in terms of fine products,” says Pettinelli. since 1988, when he started as a trainee “We know that people have milestones in carrying watches for the son of the their lives to celebrate, and that they want distributor. It was two years before to pick things with value, especially today Pettinelli was even allowed to write an when they are scrutinizing every dollar order, and four years before he started they spend. A Patek Philippe will have discussing actual sales with retailers. inherent value from the minute they “‘There’s no reason to rush,’ I purchase it to 20 years down the road, and remember the owners telling me,” says 100 years down the road.”

Pettinelli, “’Because when we hire According to Pettinelli, he has built a someone, we hire them to stay for a long younger, higher-energy-level team at time.’”

Patek Philippe that understands today’s nd stay a long generation. “We don’t rest on our laurels, time, he did.

Larry Pettinelli, president, Patek Philippe, USA or take for granted that we are Patek and Today, 22 years that’s it,” says Pettinelli. “We keep later, Pettinelli developing new products, strategies and heads the relationships. Our retailers are our c o m p a n y in partners, and we try to give them great America and admits that the time has tools for their customers—for generations gone by in a heartbeat. As the to come.” awareness of Swiss watches rose, Among the most recent “great tools” Patek Philippe reached iconic status. are Annual Calendar watches, especially As vintage watch collecting grew and Refs. 5205 and 5207, the Nautilus global auctions became more and timepieces for women and men, and the more prevalent, the value of Patek exciting steel Twenty-4 for women.

Philippe timepieces became world Additionally, Patek Philippe takes its renowned. The brand blossomed and Generations ad campaign to a different the challenges were met in the U.S. as level, based on the concept of “Begin Your they were around the world: with a creed of exclusivity, Own Tradition.” It is centered on the emotions inherent in perfection and innovation. relationships (fathers and sons, mothers and daughters) and In the four years Pettinelli has been in charge in America, conveys the enduring value and beauty of something precious. he has taken a tighter reign over the brand’s distribution: The new campaign introduces the line “Something truly closing about 40 retail doors and making the product even precious holds its beauty forever.” more exclusive. Just about 100 retailers across America are now “It’s important to emphasize that we are building watches authorized to carry Patek Philippe timepieces. Those that do for the next generation, not just for now,” says Pettinelli. “We are are superbly trained, and most travel to Switzerland to visit the not an old, stodgy, conservative company. We offer newness, workshops and witness the revered watches being built. In innovation and excitement.” typical Patek Philippe style, the brand has also reorganized the way it services watches under warranty in America, and now offers faster turnaround by servicing most of their models in Left: Ladies’ Twenty-4

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“It’s important to emphasize that we are building watches for the next generation, not just for now,” says Pettinelli.

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by Joseph Ungoco

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HAND-ME-DOWNS WELCOME A MILESTONE WATCH PASSED AMONG FAMILY GIVES THE PHRASE NEW MEANING.

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s my plane touched down at LAX, the pilot cheerily reminded us to set our watches back three hours to the local time. I glanced at my hand-me-down Rolex, my father’s stainless steel Air-King Oyster Perpetual, bought for his swearing in as a U.S. citizen on July 4, 1965. This watch had kept him on time for more than a decade. I honestly couldn’t recall the last time I had worn this watch on a plane, but this would be its last transcontinental crossing on my wrist.

My father gave me “The Air-King”, his very first Rolex, on my 11th birthday. Two months prior, to commemorate his own birthday, he had “invested in” an 18 karat yellow gold and stainless steel Datejust with Jubilee bracelet, pulling ahead of his stainless steel-clad siblings in our family version of the Rolex Stakes. (The Bond films of the ’60s and ’70s introduced my father and his three brothers to the Rolex brand, but the ’80s brought my family’s obsession to a whole new level.)

Later that year, my father took me with him to the watchmaker’s shop, where we had the Air-King cleaned, the crystal polished, and the luminous hour markers and hands repainted—an annual tradition.

Just as I thought we were ready to leave, the watchmaker came forward with a green leather box stamped with a gold coronet. Inside was the

matching women’s version of my father’s new watch. That summer, my mother handed her stainless steel Rolex with the Oyster bracelet—an engagement present from my father—down to her younger sister for her birthday.

Years later, before my 30th birthday, I called my watch dealer about buying myself a special watch—perhaps a brand new Submariner. But when I arrived at his shop, he had found the perfect tribute to my milestone birthday: a watch exactly as old as me. It was a mint condition 1969 18 karat yellow gold Rolex Date with graduated Oyster bracelet. Its South American seller swore it had sat untouched in his father’s safety deposit box for at least 25 years! I was assured that after a quick swipe of my credit card, a slightly longer FBI check (for the watch, not me) and a thorough inspection (again for the watch), this gorgeous timepiece would be mine. My “new” Rolex arrived just in time to accompany me to my birthday party.

I lived happily with my Rolexes for several years, until the event that prompted this story: my godson’s birthday. The fourth of six boys, he was well acquainted with the phrase “hand-me-down”, but I think that my present to him that day—a green leather box with a gold coronet, the Air-King safely tucked inside—may have changed his opinion of that phrase forever. At least I hope so…

The Bond films of the ’60s and ’70s introduced my father and his three brothers to the Rolex brand.

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WHEN YOU SEE WHAT WE OFFER YOU AT THE DIAMOND CELLAR, IT JUST DOESN’T MAKE SENSE TO PURCHASE A FINE SWISS TIMEPIECE ANYWHERE ELSE:

• We are an Authorized Dealer for the finest brands • Our Sales Consultants receive expert training directly from the manufacturers

• Our On-site Services include repairs, bracelet sizings, battery changes, cleanings, water tests and complete overhauls

• The finest brands & the highest quality at the best price

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by Jillian Sprague

BEAUTIFUL WOMEN, BEAUTIFUL WATCHES THE WORLD’S FINEST TIMEPIECES MAKE THESE SUPERSTARS SHINE (AND OF COURSE, VICE VERSA).

GWYNETH PALTROW FOR BAUME & MERCIER When opportunity arose for Paltrow to partner with the famed Swiss Maison d’Horlogerie, she felt an instant connection to the brand’s motto: Life is about moments.

“That very much represents my personal philosophy on life,” she explains. For the actress and singer who recently got her star on Hollywood’s Walk of Fame, quiet moments with her family are rare and precious. At a seaside party in the Hamptons, she shared that many of these moments have taken place at her home there, where she enjoys relaxing, playing with her children and grilling seafood in the garden. “I feel at home in the place between land and sea,” she says.

DIANE KRUGER FOR JAEGER-LECOULTRE Kruger fell in love with Jaeger-LeCoultre when she received a Reverso timepiece on her 18th birthday. Little did she know that over a decade later, the watch manufacturer would ask her to represent their prestigious brand on red carpets around the globe. Her elegant beauty, strong personality and incredible talent made Kruger the perfect muse for Jaeger-LeCoultre’s designers, who strive to encompass a balance between charm and strength of character in each

MARIA SHARAPOVA FOR TAG HEUER TAG Heuer believes that women experience time

of their timepiece collections.

differently than men. Men cut it up into fractions in order to visualize it, while women see it as a a poetic flow. For men, time is linear. For women, it is cyclical.

The brand recently asked tennis superstar Maria Sharapova to help design its new Formula 1 ceramic watches because “she is a woman endowed with the systematic approach that comes with the territory.” The ceramic bracelet with butterfly clasp is ideal for delicate wrists. The black edition is perfect for night on the town; the white, for anytime and anyplace.

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With its soft lines and subtle alternating finishes, the Linea is a timeless icon of femininity that naturally becomes associated with life’s most beautiful highlights. Each Linea is fitted with an interchangeable strap.www.baume-et-mercier.com

by Roberta Naas

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WATCH LOVER’S MECCA 48 HOURS IN LA CHAUX-DE-FONDS

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f you find yourself in Switzerland and have some extra time (those two words being the operative ones) on your hands, La Chaux-de-Fonds is definitely worth a visit. The capital city of the district known as La Chauxde-Fonds, in the canton of Neuchâtel, is widely known as the watchmaking center of the world, the place where many world-renowned brands took root hundreds of years ago. Located in the 1,000meter-high Jura Mountains, the townspeople were unable to rely on farming once the winter snows set in. Watchmaking provided at first a great hobby, then a lucrative craft, and finally a proud tradition.

La Chaux-de-Fonds has received recognition as a UNESCO World Heritage Site because of its exceptional history and universal contributions. It suffered extensive fire damage in 1794, when it was almost decimated and then totally rebuilt. It owes its survival solely to the manufacture and export of watches. The town is one of few that offers an architectural concept juxtaposing residential housing with artisanal workshops—bringing the once cottage industry into today’s world, but on its own terms. There is still an odd mix of modern and post-modern architecture, with soaring glass towers right next to old tileroofed homes. Some of the world’s most famous watch brands have roots in La Chaux-de-Fonds, including Pierre Jacquet-Droz (best known for his automata), Girard-Perregaux, Omega, Movado, Gallet and TAG Heuer.

Since the city and its surrounding canton remain one of the most lively and important Swiss watchmaking centers, the Musée International d’ Horlogerie (International Museum of Watchmaking) is a must-see. This popular

establishment showcases the history of timekeeping projects and products, from sundials to water clocks to table clocks, wall clocks, pocket watches and more. It is one of the richest collections in Switzerland with more than 4,500 exhibits. In the park outside the museum is a giant tubular-steel carillon clock with digital readout, built about 30 years ago. It melodically chimes the time every quarter-hour.

For those who love watchmaking but might want a diversion, La Chaux-de-Fonds is rich with other influences, including Art Nouveau architecture, famous paintings and even automotive heritage. The Villa Jeanneret-Perret is the first independent project of architect Le Corbusier (nee Charles-Edouard Jeanneret), born in 1887 in La Chaux-deFonds; there are several other examples of his architecture around town as well. Be sure to check out the Museée des Beaux-Arts, an impressive neo-classical building with a collection of Van Gogh, Delacroix and Renoir, among others.

An interesting tidbit for American car aficionados: This city is also the birthplace of Louis Chevrolet (born 1878), founder of the Chevrolet Motor Car Company. Something for everyone can be found during your two day visit.

IF YOU’RE LOOKING FOR A FINE HOTEL, CHOICES ARE SLIM. WE CAN RECOMMEND: ATHMOS HÔTEL A four-star hotel in the center of town, near the train station and around the corner from the art and watch museums.

GRAND HÔTEL LES ENDROITS A four-star modern, but in a country setting. The hotel overlooks the town, with a shuttle to the city center.

ABOVE: An arial view of the Grand Fontaine in the Neuchâtel canton region.

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CEO GOLIATH THE NEW

COLLECTION

by Laurie Kahle

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FOCUS: WHAT’S NEW

FASHIONABLY ON TIME Baume & Mercier revisits its Linea collection this year, updating the fashion-driven model with a fresh outlook for a new era. Originally launched in the 1980s, Linea has been modernized with a new, larger dimension, a mix of polished and satin finishes, and a redesigned bracelet, which can easily be changed to suit your whims on any given day. Switch from a metal bracelet to black satin, black calfskin, or a stylish wraparound brown calfskin strap without having to use a tool, thanks to a clever new clasp. You can also opt between a 27mm or 32mm case, a choice of black, mother of pearl, or silver-toned dials, and a bezel with or without diamonds. From a functional point of view, Linea has added a date and offers a quartz chronograph version which tracks elapsed minutes, seconds and tenths of seconds on three counters. The showstoppers of the collection are the 32mm models with mother of pearl dials that come with an additional black satin or calfskin strap. These top-of-the-line pieces offer a choice between a mechanical automatic movement with a sapphire crystal case back showcasing its decorated rotor, or a quartz chronograph that sparkles with 1.4 carats of diamonds set on the bezel and bracelet.

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SOME GIFTS ARE ENJOYED FOR DAYS.

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COLUMBUS FOOD & WINE

Warm Weather Wines COLUMBUS WINE EXPERTS WEIGH IN ON YOUR BEST BETS IN WINE AS THE WEATHER TURNS WARMER BY ADAM SCOPPA

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inter has come and gone, and that means it’s time to put away, along with our winter jackets, those heavy reds and start considering lighter, patio-friendly wines. We chatted with a few of Columbus’ most knowledgeable wine enthusiasts about what’s hot for the warmer months.

It’s no surprise that white wine experiences a surge in interest during this time of year. From crisp, effervescent Vinho Verde to robust Chardonnay, something chilled and fruity seems to be on everyone’s agenda. Sauvignon Blanc is one varietal that doesn’t ever seem to wane in popularity. Anderson’s wine manager, Michelle Lehman, recommended Kim Crawford’s Sauvignon Blanc. This New Zealand wine bears all the hallmarks you’d expect of the varietal from that country: inviting tropical fruit aromas, zesty acidity and a dry finish. Pomelo, from Oakville, California, is the pick from local expert Roger Gentile. The owner of Gentile’s favors the citrus-like flavor profile of this wine—note the lemons that adorn its label.

The Refectory’s Jeff Elasky champions the white wines of Austria and

Germany for “their full fruit and low alcohol,” making them ideal for spring and summer. Germany’s dry Rieslings and Gruner Veltliner from Austria are Elasky’s consistent favorites, which he often garnishes with a little fresh fruit in the glass.

Can’t decide between red and white? Think pink! It’s the perfect time of year to rediscover rosé. Our experts want to make it clear that not all rosé tastes like White Zinfandel. In fact, most are “refreshing, but not sweet,” according to Whole Foods’ Mike Nosan, who suggested Gerard Bertrand’s sparkling Crémant de Limoux Brut Rosé, from southern France.

With notes of red fruit, citrus and yeasty bread-like undertones, this would work wonders alongside dishes like salad with goat cheese and grilled salmon.

Speaking of sparkling wine, who doesn’t love a glass as an aperitif or dessert accompaniment? Gentile is fond of Ca’ Tullio, an Italian Prosecco. “It’s what you drink when you’re in Italy, especially when it’s hot,” he said. Try adding some peach juice to this off-dry sparkler to make a refreshing bellini.

For warm weather reds, Pinot Noir seems an obvious choice. It’s a light-bodied, fruity wine that’s versatile with many kinds of food. Nosan approves of California’s Estancia, which is a great example of a fruit-forward, new world Pinot. Elasky, however, advocated Sattler St. Laurent, from Austria. The St. Laurent varietal is thought to be a clone of Pinot, takes nicely to a slight chill and is “perfect for grilled meats on the patio.”

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“Prosecco is what you

drink when you’re in Italy, especially when it’s hot.

—Roger Gentile

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”

TRAVEL

Into Africa IN ZAMBIA, SPOTTING WILDLIFE IS A WALK IN THE PARK.

BY CAROLINA BOLADO HALE

PHOTOS NATHAN HALE

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s we glided silently on the Zambezi River, we soaked in the stillness of the moment. To our right was Zimbabwe; to our left, Zambia. Above, the vast African sky enveloped us in its limitless supply of blue.

Then we saw the hippos.

Our reverie was broken by the creatures, who bobbed slowly up and down and grunted their displeasure at our having trespassed in their corner of the Zambezi. Our path ahead—and behind—was blocked by two pods of the roly poly beasts, among the deadliest in Africa. The promise of getting close to wildlife on a canoe trip was part of what had drawn us to Zambia’s Lower Zambezi National Park. But this was, perhaps, a bit too close.

We gave them as wide a berth as possible. After several minutes, our guide, who was well versed in hippopotamus habits, dipped his oar into the water. “Let’s go. Quickly now,” he said, calmly but firmly.

It was one of the many reminders we had while on safari that despite the gourmet food, plush beds and clawfoot bathtubs, we were very much in the wild, in the home of often unpredictable animals engaged in a daily life-and-death struggle. It’s easy to forget while sipping afternoon tea and watching the river float lazily by, until an elephant lumbers into camp searching for a snack.

Being able to get deep into the bush was part of the allure of Lower

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Zambezi National Park, a 4,000-square kilometer piece of riverfront land about a half-hour’s flight south of Lusaka.

Though Zambia isn’t at the top of most people’s safari lists, it should be. Zambia’s guides are renowned beyond the country’s borders, and better park management and increased tourism revenue have helped to greatly reduce poaching. o roads lead to the park, so visitors must come via boat or prop plane; the latter lands on one of three red-dirt airstrips inside the park that often have to be cleared of zebras and warthogs. Formerly a private game reserve for Zambian ex-President Kenneth Kaunda, the park is now home to just six small camps, which means visitors are more likely to see resident wildlife as opposed to safari truck convoys.

And there’s plenty of wildlife to see. Despite the park’s small size, it boasts most of the big game that bring people to Africa, plus more than 300 different bird species. After the rainy season has passed and the watering holes have dried up, the animals all come to drink at the river, which means those six riverfront camps are perfectly positioned for wildlife viewing.

My husband and I split our visit there between Chiawa Camp, the first one established after the national park’s creation in 1983, and Old Mondoro, a more rustic and intimate camp a 45-minute boat ride downstream. The park has distinct regions, and the two camps are situated in completely different terrain. Dense shrubs, behind which lions hide while eyeing their prey, characterize the area around Chiawa, while large acacia trees with low-hanging, thick branches—perfect leopard perches—dominate the terrain downstream.

We were up before the sun each day (the animals don’t sleep in, so we couldn’t either) to explore the area by safari truck, boat, canoe or even on foot. Zambia is, after all, the

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Dr. Livingstone, I Presume No visit to Zambia is complete without a stop in Livingstone, next door to Victoria Falls. The local name for the falls, Mosi oa Tunya, means “the smoke that thunders.”

When water levels are high, the towering clouds of mist can be seen clearly from downtown Livingstone, six miles away. The falls are at their mightiest in May and June, making the viewing experience a very wet one. The flow slows to a comparative trickle by the end of the year, which means each individual waterfall is clearly visible, and activities like whitewater rafting or taking a dip in the Devil’s Swimming Pool (literally inches from where the water plummets 360 feet down) are available. The Royal Livingstone Hotel, situated on the banks of the Zambezi River just upstream from the falls, offers luxurious rooms, and wildlife viewing right from your window—giraffes and zebras freely roam the grounds of the hotel.

Rates start at $653 for double occupancy, including breakfast and national park fees.

Inside the canvas tent at Chiawa Camp

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birthplace of the walking safari.

Listening to bird calls and examining termite mounds, we saw the bush in a way that we never could have in a noisy safari vehicle.

Every day brought a new adventure, whether it was hooking tigerfish in the river or finding lion cubs playing in the tall grass. And each evening, we paused to engage in another safari ritual: the sundowner. No matter what we were doing at the time, as soon as the sun began to sink below the horizon, we would stop, prepare drinks and watch the sky turn various shades of orange, pink and purple as we discussed the lasting memories we’d just made.

Lower Zambezi National Park is open from mid-April until mid-November. Prices for Chiawa Camp range from $595 to $895 per person per day, depending on the time of year.

Old Mondoro’s rates begin at approximately $600 per person per day.

Rates include transportation within the park, all activities, food and drinks.

SPEED

Grand Sport THE INTERSECTION OF HISTORY AND TECHNOLOGY BY DAVID A. ROSE

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on. The driver, James Dean, was Hollywood’s newest heartthrob. He died within minutes of the crash, and a legend was born.

Although only 90 Porsche 550 Spyders were made between 1953 and 1956, many have survived. At the Rolex Monterey Motorsports Reunion held at Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca in 2010, one of the 600 cars entered was a Porsche 550 Spyder identical to the one James Dean planned to race 55 years ago.

Vintage racing has grown to become one of the most exciting forms of motorsports. It brings to life what most people will only see on the pages of coffee table books, in museums or in movies.

Rolex has sponsored motorsports since the 1930s. As the leading name in luxury timepieces, it’s fitting that they are title sponsor for one of the world’s most significant vintage race events. “Motor racing has an enormous following around the world. It appeals to those who appreciate the ultimate in technology as well as extreme competition,” said Peter Nicholson, vice president and director of communications, Rolex Watch U.S.A. “Since split-second timing is so critical for drivers and crews, it is Top: A full field of three-liter Formula 1 racecars, considered the pinnacle of motor racing from 1966 to ’83. Center left: A Rolex Oyster Perpetual Cosmograph Daytona was presented to Graham Wallis. Center right: Some of the many cars raced or built by Dan Gurney. Bottom right: Patrick Dempsey and Jay Leno.

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ROLEX / STEPHAN COOPER

t was a late afternoon in September when two young men were driving to Salinas, Calif., in a brand new 1955 Porsche 550 Spyder. The owner of the car planned to compete in the Salinas Sports Car Race that weekend, but rather than transport the car by trailer from Los Angeles as intended, he felt he needed seat time in the new car before he raced it. As they approached an intersection near Cholame, a 1950 Ford coming from the opposite direction suddenly crossed lanes and the two cars collided head-

Left: Luc Slijpen from the Netherlands stands next to his original, unrestored 1925 Type 35 Bugatti. Bottom left: Graham Wallis in his 1929 Lagonda, for which he won The Spirit of Monterey Trophy for overall excellence. Below: Patrick Dempsey races the Jeremy Barnes Mazda RX-92 GTP.

fitting that Rolex adds its reputation for precision timekeeping to these magnificent events.”

Participants at the Rolex Monterey Motorsports Reunion hail from 13 countries and bring with them the most exotic cars on the planet to race at Laguna Seca’s challenging 11-turn circuit. Not long ago, one would have been able to see a Type 35 Bugatti Grand Prix car only in a museum. Last year 90 Bugattis were in Monterey, 35 of them racing in the Bugatti Grand Prix as part of the Rolex Monterey Motorsports Reunion. (They later toured the California coastline as part of the Bugatti Rally 2010.)

At vintage races, the cars are not necessarily the only stars. Patrick Dempsey, a passionate driver best known for his role as Dr. Derek Shepherd on TV’s Grey’s Anatomy, raced a Mazda GTP Prototype at the event. Always a crowd favorite, he was visibly thrilled with his racecar—and his results. Jay Leno and other celebrities are perennial attendees, but this year it was a true American legend who garnered the most attention. Dan Gurney, who was honored at the event, is widely considered to be the greatest American

racecar driver of all time. As a driver he has won races in Indy cars, Formula 1, NASCAR stock cars and the 24 Hours of Le Mans. He was the only American to win a Formula 1 Grand Prix in a car of his own design when, in 1967, he won the Belgian Grand Prix at Circuit Spa Francorchamps in the beautiful Gurney Weslake Eagle F1. Despite all his wins, Gurney is most well-known for his sportsmanship, which has won him the respect and admiration of peers and race fans around the world.

As he was honored, Gurney reflected back on his prime, when cars were fast, drivers colorful and tragedy seemed always to be lurking around the next corner. “We were certainly driven by enormous passion for the sport, and we had great respect for those who came before us...we weren’t thinking about future history at the time,” said Gurney. He thanked his role model Phil Walters (better known as Ted Tappet), who “could move through traffic gracefully without knocking anybody off the road.”

Gurney is thrilled about the growth and popularity of vintage racing and enjoys seeing enthusiastic gentlemen drivers behind the wheel of the cars that he and his peers made famous. “I’m sure these guys are as crazy as we were,” said Gurney. “I don’t know what it is about human beings...we all have an affinity for the internal combustion engine and its sounds and smells, as well as all the history. It’s great to see decades touching each other and new generations appreciating similar things.”

The Rolex Monterey Motorsports Reunion is part of Monterey Auto Week, when sophisticated people, exotic cars, fine food and superb wines combine for a celebration that has become internationally recognized as a showcase for luxury and glamour.

Automobile enthusiasts and connoisseurs of culture enjoy the atmosphere of elegance while attending auto-related shows, auctions, cocktail parties and elaborate dinners. At the Pebble Beach Tour d’Elegance, grand touring cars drive some of the most scenic portions of Monterey’s 17Mile Drive and then parade down Carmel’s Ocean Avenue for bystanders to enjoy. The week-long festival of automobile culture culminates with the internationally acclaimed Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance, where some of the world’s most extraordinary cars are judged for authenticity, function, history and style.

As trailers and auto-transporters are reloaded with their valuable cargo and participants head for home, the quiet and lovely Monterey peninsula returns to its normal tranquility. But plans are already underway for making the next event, from August 19th to the 21st, 2011, even more unforgettable.

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PerfectGems

EXPLORE THE LITTLE LUXURIES THE WORLD HAS TO OFFER.

BY DONALD CHARLES RICHARDSON

CAPE ESCAPE Nestled on 25 acres atop a bluff overlooking the Atlantic Ocean, Chatham Bars Inn has been a landmark on Cape Cod since 1914. The hotel is famous for its extensive outdoor activities and lavish dining. But now guests can also indulge in the comfort of a contemporary spa that boasts a dozen king and queen-size suites, each with a hydrotherapy tub, sauna, steam shower, plasma TV, Bose sound system and fireplace. This spring, the spa is featuring a renewal and cleansing treatment that includes a body polish made of sugar drenched in plant oils, an application of botanical Shea butter, a linen body wrap, and face massage.

Since 1989, the Garden Conservancy has been restoring and preserving America’s exceptional gardens, from those made by wardens and prisoners at San Francisco’s Alcatraz Island (at left) to the Pearl Fryar topiary garden in South Carolina. Along with lectures and events, the group also offers members of the Garden Conservancy’s Society of Fellows the opportunity to see some of the most lavish gardens in the world. This year, along with U.S. destinations, the Fellows are traveling to Île de France to see Château de Vaux-le-Vicomte, a 17th century Baroque chateau and garden designed by the André le Nôtre (who later designed the gardens at Versailles), and Normandy to visit Château de Brécy, another 17th century chateau with a meticulously restored Italian style garden.

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YADES GREEK HISTORICAL HOTELS

On a narrow cobblestone street in Rethymnon old town on the island of Crete, a small, unassuming doorway opens to a large courtyard filled with masses of bougainvillea. A central fountain is surrounded by antiques, works of art, comfortable sofas and tables set with flowers. This stunning setting is the very fashionable restaurant of the Hotel Avli.

Greeks come from all over the island for the superb food made from local sources and the incomparable Greek wines (the Avli has the largest wine cellar on Crete). Now a member of the prestigious Yades hotels, the Avli was once the home of a Venetian lord, and the elegant architecture and gracious style of the past remain. There are only seven (very chic) suites, each designed in an individual color theme with every modern convenience carefully integrated into the exposed stone, wood beams and original Venetian arches.

Have a glass of wine on the rooftop and look out over this beautiful town to the sea.

PICNIC PLEASURES A quiet afternoon. China plates, good silver, a vintage tablecloth. And these sophisticated pairings from sommelier and gourmet Edward Costa, director of food and beverage at New York’s Waldorf Astoria Hotel. These elements combine to create a truly chic picnic with European flair. To evoke the flavor of a romantic afternoon in Italy, mingle the sharp and nutty flavors of Parmigiano Reggiano with the gentle Sangiovese grapes in Vignamaggio Chianti Classico Riserva Castello di Monna Lisa, 2006. Or, to give your picnic sparkle, try the light citrus Borgo Magredo Prosecco that highlights the flavors of smoked salmon. If you prefer a French ambiance, a fresh, crisp rosé is the perfect wine on a warm afternoon. Robert Oatley Rosé, 2008 is ideal with any chicken dish. And of course there must be champagne (and caviar). The bright and refreshing citrus flavors of Perrier Jouet Fleur de Champagne Blanc de Blanc, 1999 is a perfect match to the creaminess and richness of Osetra caviar. For a picnic of this caliber, pearls are appropriate.

KIDDING AROUND Guest rooms at the Elysian Hotel in Chicago boast white Carrera marble bathrooms with soaking tubs, inset LCD televisions and separate showers. Rooms have fireplaces and expansive terraces, and the beds are draped with 460-thread count Rivolta Carmignani Italian linens. To give couples traveling with children an opportunity to enjoy all these appurtenances, the hotel invites kids to the kitchens of either Balsan or Ria, the hotel’s restaurants, for a cooking session with the pastry chef. They “assist” in the preparation of a dessert such as Balsan’s Paris Brest, a cream-filled pastry, or Ria’s spiced hazelnut cake, nestled in ice cream and topped with cherries and hazelnuts.

When the creation is finished, the kids get to take it with them. Maybe they’ll share.

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Photo: Peter S. Hurst; Art Director: Shelby Erickson

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