renowned renowned for luxury
WA K E F I E L D S
for luxury
WA K E F I E L D S
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Vintage look with modern styling... Three cushion brilliant cut diamonds mounted in platinum ÂŁ19,600.00
Contents
renowned renowned for luxury for luxury
8 TOP 50 GLITZ AWARD
Wakefields go from strength to strength with a multi award winning November
12‘WHEN I WERE A LAD’
Melanie interviews her father Graham Wakefield who reminisces about the early Wakefield days
20GOODWOOD REvIvAL
Find out why every year so many people travel to the historic track to relive the glory days of motor racing
Inside 16 ROLEX WATCHES watches and history
25 FASHION
34 GEMS...ROCK! insight into the world of gems
39 BESPOKE JEWELLRY all from just a sketch
42 THE NEW NEW YORK
some of the latest seasonal looks
beyond the empire state
a look the at the latest DB9 inside new Bentley
a michelin star chef is born
31 ASTON MARTIN 30 BENTLEY
46 THE PASS WW AA KK E FE IFEI L S S ED LD
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1
MASTER
renowned for luxury
JEWELLERS Wakefields Jewellers go from strength to strength with a flurry of prestigious industry awards and a step up into the world of high-end retail
Winning Retailer of the Year at CMJ 2012
N
ovember 2012 was a significant month for Wakefields, hailing the arrival of watch brand Rolex at the jeweller. An exciting achievement for Dominic and Melanie Wakefield and the rest of the team, the addition of the prestigious watch brand was congratulated by one of our peer voters. “They have made the transition from fashion to high-end retail, recently winning the Rolex franchise,” they said. There has been plenty to celebrate lately. The retailer, which was established in 1911 and continues to celebrate its centenary, maintains exemplary standards of how to successfully fuse a rich heritage with a modern approach to jewellery retailing. The dedication of Dominic and Melanie including involvement on the Company of Master Jewellers (CMJ) board and with The World Jewellery Confederation (CIBJO)
respectively - to the industry as a whole has not gone unnoticed by friends and colleagues. “Mel and Dom are a true inspiration,” commented one voter, while another expressed admiration for the retailer’s marketing and noted its regular media coverage. At Wakefields, customers - young and old are consistently treated to a varied product selection, where fashion items such as Thomas Sabo, Pandora and Molly Brown feature alongside stunning diamond jewellery collections and a range of watches that includes Longines, Citizen, Tissot and, of course, now Rolex. Combine those quality ranges with excellent standards of customer service, courtesy of the impeccably trained staff, and you have a formula that will continue to produce results for generations to come.
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Marquis cut diamond ring in 18ct white gold & Matching Marquis cut diamond earrings ÂŁ8,500.00 & ÂŁ11,000.00
‘When I were a lad’ Melanie interviews her father Graham Wakefield as he reminisces about the early days
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What is your earliest memory of Wakefields? It is coming to the shop on Sunday mornings with my Father, Jim Wakefield. I was only about 7 years old at the time and it was my job to put coke on the fire in the boiler house. This heated the big standing radiators that we had in the shop. The lights weren’t so warm back then!
How old were you when you started working in the shop full time? I was 17 and didn’t even know how to spell necklace or brooch. I was very naive and green behind the ears! We had quite a few staff, all called by their surnames of course. Mr Picknell was our manager and he was here both before and after the war. Miss Turner was our secretary, my father was Mr Wakefield and I was Mr Graham! In the workshop upstairs, we had 3 watch and clock repairers.
So what were the early days like? The shop was unrecognisable from how it looks today. Wakefields was a typical market town jewellery shop. We sold engagement rings, jewellery and did repairs. Behind the scenes these repairs were moved about the shop in buckets on a pulley system. We also sold a lot of silver back then, like canteens of cutlery, as wedding gifts. I used to carry out valuations in big country houses and church vaults full of silver. It was exciting seeing expensive articles that no one else got to see. We closed for half day on a Thursday and from 1pm for an hour every day when all the staff went home for lunch. I remember when Wakefields Cafe/Restaurant opened; people said it would never be a success because eating out at lunchtime just wasn’t the done thing. I used to go in and have a big hot lunch followed by double custard with sugar! I couldn’t do that now!
And the atmosphere in the shop? There was a good camaraderie between all of us. My father was a stickler for standards. There was always cleaning, polishing, filing of packets to be done and the clocks all telling the right time. We weren’t allowed to laugh or chat in the shop. We did, of course but just quietly out of earshot! We had a very glamorous older lady join us called Mrs Tremlett and lots if people thought she was Mrs Wakefield, which she never corrected! But she was great fun; she was a smoker and insisted on putting crystal ashtrays on every counter - for customers’ use, of course! But things like that seem very dated now!
You must have seen some very interesting customers over the years? Oh yes, I had a chap who became a very good friend. He lived in the UK and South Africa and brought back a diamond each trip. We would then take out the diamond and replace it with a Cubic Zirconia. He was always getting mugged in South Africa so he was careful to make sure his rings were big enough. This was so he could take them off and not lose his fingers to a machete. I had another gent who got me to meet him at his Gentleman’s club in London. He sketched out a brooch,
pendant and ring all set with an aquamarine gem. Three weeks later, I met him again at the club and he was over the moon with the jewellery. It was always all paid in cash! He then said, now make it all again. This was for his mistress of 20 years and she was a jazz pianist. He lived with her in London during the week and then went home to his wife, in Sussex, at the weekend. The ironic thing is, when he retired, his wife bought him a keyboard because she thought he would like to take up the piano. Little did she know, he had been playing venues with his girlfriend in London and could play to a professional standard! He had to pretend to learn over many months! One more story, though I could keep going all day! We had a lady come in, who had found a box of junk at her local car boot sale. She wanted us to check through the items. At the bottom of this box lay a sparkling white stone that turned out to be a loose, almost flawless diamond weighing in at almost 2 carats. So she sold it and took all of her extended family on holiday to Florida. A true, fairy tale ending.
Any really memorable occasions? Well, we had a marriage proposal when a chap put a poem in the window. That was a happy memory. We had a death - one of our workshop team. He died of an asthma attack which took a long while for us to get over. No births to report but plenty of sickness and people passing out during ear piercing! We have had our fair share of crime over the years. But one or two incidents stand out, when I was faced with a particularly “dodgy” chap; I informed the police quietly that I believed he was trying to sell stolen goods. They told me to “keep him talking!” Which I did..... They arrived 10 minutes later, but as soon as the police tried to arrest him, he made a run for it, throwing hot coffee over one of them and jumping through a plate glass window to make his getaway! He didn’t get far as the police just followed his trail of blood down to Hammicks, where he was found hiding in the alley way next door! Most people, who know me, know that my dogs have always been an important part of the family! The dogs, over the years, have been guard dogs in the shop. However our worst incident was an armed robbery in which myself and my wife were pistol whipped. The “guard” dog was on the premises but was lying in the workshop because at the time, that was the only room air conditioned and it was a hot day! I am thankful the dog didn’t come down, because who knows what could have happened! More recently, I am immensely proud of Melanie and Dominic for what they have achieved with pushing the business forward. Finding out we had Rolex on our 100th birthday, almost to the day, was very significant.
Lastly, any advice for the youngsters. No, don’t listen to me. They are doing a great job! I have seen a few recessions and downturns but all the time there is emotion, there is jewellery. I am always here in the background, continuing quietly with the valuations and I am on hand if they need me. It’s a great place to be and I think more independent family businesses need that succession planning; otherwise there is no real future. I have 6 grandchildren so we have future jewellers in the making. I am not worried as I know it will be in good hands for generations to come.
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Crystal Palazzo Vase ÂŁ1,695.00
The Oyster Perpetual
SKY-DWELLER
A compelling timepiece of revolutionary design that blends to perfection technological sophistication and ease of use. the SKY-DWEllER provides in an unprecedented and highly original way, the information global travellers need to easily keep track of time: a dual time zone, with local time read via centre hands and a reference time display in 24-hour format read via a rotating off-centre disc visible on the dial; a particularly innovative annual calendar named SARoS – in tribute to the astronomical phenomenon which inspired it – that requires only one date adjustment a year, when the month changes from February to March and a month display by means of 12 discreet apertures around the circumference of the dial. A majestic expression of the art of watchmaking and the product of Rolex’s exceptional technical expertise, the SKY-DWEllER is as intuitive to read as it is simple to use. local time, reference time and the date are rapidly set using a highly innovative interface between the case and movement. the rotatable RinG CoMMAnD bezel is the focal point of the interface, allowing the wearer to select the individual functions to be set simply by turning the bezel. Each function can then be adjusted swiftly and easily in both
directions by means of the winding crown, which has only one setting position. the SKY-DWEllER is equipped with a new calibre, the 9001, an officially certified Swiss chronometer entirely developed and manufactured by Rolex that epitomizes the values of precision, robustness and reliability for which Rolex watches are renowned. it bears witness to the creative force of a brand dedicated to its passion for innovation at the service of the wearer. the SKY-DWEllER is designed for those who place the emphasis on useful functions, effortless manipulation, prestige and elegance above all. Available in 18 ct white, yellow or EVERoSE gold cast by Rolex in its own foundry, this advanced wristwatch features the fluted bezel that symbolizes the codes of the brand. With its stately 42 mm oYStER case, it is the embodiment of perfect symbiosis between form and function, aesthetics and technology. With the SKY-DWEllER, Rolex once again demonstrates its wealth of ingenuity by designing and manufacturing a watch that perpetuates the oYStER’s legendary excellence.
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renowned for luxury
The Oyster Perpetual
SUBMARINER
With its subtly redesigned case, new bezel and bracelet all benefitting from recent Rolex innovations, this latest generation SUBMARinER is firmly in line with the tradition of the historic model launched in 1953. it sets new standards in terms of robustness, legibility and reliability, strengthening its status as a watch of action with timeless allure. Ceramic bezel and long-lasting luminescent display the unidirectional rotatable 60-minute graduated bezel of this new SUBMARinER is equipped with a black CERACHRoM insert made of virtually scratchproof, non-fading, corrosion-resistant ceramic. the graduations are coated via a PVD process with a thin layer of platinum. the sleek black dial harbours large CHRoMAliGHt hour markers and hands filled with luminescent material that emits a long-lasting blue glow. this exclusive display offers exceptional legibility in the dark. The OYSTER case, symbol of waterproofness the SUBMARinER’s 40 mm oYStER case, guaranteed waterproof to a depth of 300 metres (1,000 feet), is a paragon of robustness. the middle case is crafted from a solid block of particularly corrosion-resistant 904l steel. the winding crown, fitted with the patented tRiPloCK triple waterproofness system, screws down securely against the case in a manner akin to a submarine’s hatch. it is protected by a crown guard that is an integral part of the middle case. the crystal is made of virtually
scratchproof synthetic sapphire. the waterproof oYStER case ensures optimal protection for the SUBMARinER’s high-precision movement. Calibre 3130, a superlative chronometer the new SUBMARinER is equipped with Calibre 3130, a self-winding mechanical movement entirely developed and manufactured by Rolex. like all PERPEtUAl movements, the 3130 is a certified Swiss chronometer, a designation reserved for high-precision watches that have successfully passed the Swiss official Chronometer testing institute (CoSC) tests. its architecture, like that of all oYStER watch movements, makes it singularly precise and reliable. the oscillator, the true heart of the watch, has a blue PARACHRoM hairspring which is insensitive to magnetic fields and offers great stability when exposed to temperature variations, remaining up to 10 times more precise than a traditional hairspring in case of shocks. The OYSTERLOCK clasp, functional and secure this SUBMARinER is fitted with a solid-link oYStER bracelet in 904l steel. it features a new-generation oYStERloCK safety clasp and GliDEloCK extension system. the ingenious patented system, located beneath the clasp cover, allows fine adjustments of the bracelet length in 2 mm increments for a total of approximately 20 mm – without using any tools. this allows the watch to be worn over a diving suit up to 3 mm thick and provides additional comfort in any circumstance.
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the essential sailing watch
The Oyster Perpetual
YACHT-MASTER in RolESiUM
Benefi tting from the latest Rolex innovations in terms of the ergonomics, comfort and reliability of the bracelet, clasp and bezel, this extensive update enriches the wellestablished personality of this sleek, sporty and distinguished model. Born in 1992, the YACHtMAStER is a symbol of the privileged links Rolex enjoys with the world of sailing. New rotatable bezel the bidirectional rotation system on the bezel of this new YACHt-MAStER has been completely rethought. Made entirely of 950 platinum, with polished graduations standing out against a sand-blasted fi nish, it can be easily set to time a period of up to 60 minutes – for example the sailing time between two buoys – or to provide a reminder of elapsed time. the dial harbours large CHRoMAliGHt hour markers and hands fi lled with luminescent material that emits a long-lasting blue glow, offering exceptional legibility in the dark. The OYSTER case, symbol of waterproofness the YACHt-MAStER’s 40 mm oYStER case, guaranteed waterproof to a depth of 100 metres (330 feet), is a paragon of robustness. the characteristically shaped middle case is crafted from a solid block of particularly corrosion-resistant 904l steel. the winding crown, fi tted with the tRiPloCK triple waterproofness system, screws down securely against the case. it is protected by a crown
guard that is an integral part of the middle case. the crystal, with a CYCloPS lens at 3 o’clock for easy reading of the date, is made of virtually scratchproof synthetic sapphire. the waterproof oYStER case ensures optimal protection for the YACHt-MAStER’s high-precision movement. Calibre 3135, a superlative chronometer the YACHt-MAStER is equipped with Calibre 3135, a self-winding mechanical movement and like all PERPEtUAl movements, the 3135 is a certifi ed Swiss chronometer. its architecture, like that of all oYStER watch movements, makes it singularly precise and reliable. the oscillator is the true heart of the watch, insensitive to magnetic fi elds, the PARACHRoM hairspring offers great stability when exposed to temperature variations and remains up to 10 times more precise than a traditional hairspring in case of shocks. Solid-link bracelet and safety clasp the new YACHt-MAStER, fi tted with a solid-link oYStER bracelet in 904l steel with a new-generation oYStERloCK safety clasp, is simple to manipulate and includes a security system to prevent accidental opening. this elegant solid-link bracelet, featuring the ingenious EASYlinK rapid extension system, offers remarkable comfort and ease of use, allowing the wearer to easily increase the bracelet length by approximately 5 mm for additional comfort in any circumstance.
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renowned for luxury
GOODWOOD
REVIVAL
Find out why every year so many people travel to the historic track to relive the glory days of motor racing
T
he Goodwood Revival came to life in the autumn of 1998. It was a dream come true for the Earl of March, whose grandfather – the ninth Duke of Richmond first opened the motor circuit at Goodwood in 1948. The aim of the event is to relive the glory days of Goodwood Motor Circuit, which was one of Britain’s leading racing venues during its active years between 1948 and 1966. During this time it hosted contemporary racing of all kinds, including Formula One, the famous Goodwood Nine Hours race and the celebrated Tourist Trophy sports car race. Now, for three late summer days each September, the Goodwood circuit echoes to the spine-tingling bark of golden-age Grand Prix cars from the Fifties and Sixties. Many of these historic racing cars are driven by famous faces from motor sport past and present. Sir Stirling Moss, John Surtees, Sir Jack Brabham, Derek Bell, David Coulthard, Damon Hill, Gerhard Berger, Martin Brundle, Wayne Gardner, Giacomo Agostini and the late, great Barry Sheene and Phil Hill have all taken part at the Revival. The Goodwood Revival is a magical step back in time and a chance for visitors to revel in the romance of motor racing as it used to be. The lovingly restored circuit is unchanged from its heyday, and great lengths are taken to ensure that everything on the site is exactly as it was. It is not just the circuit and the vehicles that
have an authentic period look. All circuit staff dress in appropriate period clothing from the 1940s and 1950s, and each year more spectators and competitors get into the effervescent Goodwood spirit by dressing the part. Bands play authentic 1950s music, the food outlets sell fish and chips wrapped in reprints of 1950s newspapers, and even the corn stooks on the circuit infield are made from a speciallygrown crop with extra-long stalks for hand cutting. Goodwood circuit is also unique for its planted borders, with around 4,000 hydrangeas bringing beautiful florid colour to the track. “The Revival is theatre,” says Lord March. “The circuit is literally dressed up like a huge film set, and that includes the competitors and spectators. Almost everyone is dressed to the nines in fantastic 1950s creations, and the efforts people go to are amazing. But equally it’s quite easy to look the part in just smart classical clothing, it depends how far you want to go.” Aside from the entertainment on the track, there is breath-taking action in the skies above this former Battle of Britain airfield as Spitfires, Hurricanes and Mustangs perform elaborate swoops and dives over the circuit. There are also flying demonstrations from a host of other period aircraft. The Goodwood Revival is the only event that places motor racing into a carefully choreographed historical backdrop. The result is a truly unforgettable experience and an atmosphere unlike any other sporting event. WA K E F I E L D S
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Diamond ring in Platinum From ÂŁ10,000.00
www.kriegernet.com
Green Tourmaline & Diamond ring in 19ct white gold ÂŁ10,000.00
Wakefields of Horsham
FOR HER Mulberry Marccain Armani Jeans Boss Orange Barbour Desigual
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59 West Street Horsham RH12 1PN Wakefieldsonline.co.uk t. O14O3 254O78
FOR HIM Hugo Boss Paul Smith Canali Gant Armani Collezioni Polo Ralph Lauren
HUGO BOSS TAILORING Two button modern fit business suit available at wakefieldsonline.co.uk
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CANALI
Two button velvet jacket, button down check shirt, V-neck Merino sweater available at wakefieldsonline.co.uk
CANALI
Pure wool double breasted suit, button down check shirt, pure silk tie and hankerchief available at wakefieldsonline.co.uk
CANALI
Carcoat and cashmere turtleneck available at wakefieldsonline.co.uk
CANALI
Quilted coat, cotton classic shirt, pure silk tie and merino crew neck available at wakefieldsonline.co.uk WA K E F I E L D S
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CROSS PENS
Are you up for having a little fun while getting down to business? With the Cross Edge you won’t be able to resist the temptation to play thanks to the cool, patented slide-and-snap technology. Writing with a rollerball has never been more fun.
Features • Capless rollerball pen , available in blue, red, purple or black ink and now also in Tender Rose pink finish • Converts to ballpoint pen just by changing the refill • Single-handed operation to slide open and snap shut £40.00 each
INTRODUCING PROXIMITY PERPETUAL CALENDAR CHRONOGRAPH WITH POWERED BY ECO-DRIVE TECHNOLOGY
Time/Date Sync iPhone® Search Call & Email Alert Calendar Event Notification 10-Metre Sync
PROxIMITY WILL BE AVAILABLE IN STORE fROM END Of NOVEMBER ©2012 Citizen Watch Company Compatible with Apple® iPhone® 4S and and Apple® iPhone® 5. The Apple® iPhone® App graphic and logo are registered trademarks of Apple, Inc. The Bluetooth graphic and logo are registered trademarks of Bluetooth SIG, Inc.
ECO-DRIVE PROXIMITY citizenwatch.com
timeless classics Remaining fiercely independent in a market dominated by large Plc’s, Harwoods has been able to offer customers unrivalled levels of care from both a sales and aftersales perspective for over 80 years
You’re never too far from Harwoods Basingstoke • Bramshaw • Brighton • Chichester • Crawley • Croydon Edenbridge • Five Oaks • Portsmouth • Pulborough • Southampton • Tonbridge
online & mobile at harwoods.uk.com
renowned for luxury
Luxury, as standard The latest DB9 boasts more power, enhanced sophistication, revised engineering and still gives car enthusiasts what they expect from an Aston Martin – the best of British in a Sports GT
H
arwoods Aston Martin has made major enhancements to its iconic Sports GT car, the luxurious DB9. Appearing hot on the heels of the all-new Vanquish Super GT, the introduction of 13 Model Year DB9 gives the British luxury sports car maker the perfect opportunity to further enrich the appeal of its mainstay in the GT sector. The styling changes see DB9 adopt an even more lithe, fluid and pure form reminiscent of the outgoing Aston Martin Virage, which has now ceased production. Taking a classic Aston Martin GT silhouette as its base, the new DB9 adds a more pronounced rear boot ‘flip’ to further enhance the aerodynamic performance of the car. The exterior design of the DB9 communicates a powerfully assertive yet elegant character. The surfaces display taught lines and subtle muscular forms that point to the underlying power of this renowned Sports GT. DB9 sits low and wide, visually ‘planting’ the car on the road, communicating a clearly athletic stance.
The car’s inherent width is accentuated by the ‘light catcher’ feature that runs from the lower front bumper and continues along the sill of the car creating a chiselled, determined look. Available from launch in either Coupe or Volante body styles, DB9 13MY clearly has a strong breadth of appeal. Aston Martin chief executive officer Dr Ulrich Bez said: “I am very excited to be unveiling the new DB9 now. My team has been working hard for many months to improve and update key aspects of this superb Sports GT – the mainstay of our sports car range – and I believe the results to be exceptional. Aside from the undeniably beautiful exterior styling and now even more luxurious interior, there are many important and impressive engineering changes that demonstrate Aston Martin’s renowned ability to create compelling cars in the modern era.” DB9 13MY is available to order now through Harwoods Aston Martin Chichester, Terminus Road, Chichester, West Sussex. Price: £131,995 (UK RRP)
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WOLF DESIGNS
Single watch winder with cover ÂŁ254.99
Inspired by the intoxicating performance and sophisticated interiors of luxury European sports cars, these watch winders by Wolf will attack the senses of the most demanding automatic–watch aficionados, with a combination of ebony macassar wood veneer, polished chrome and rich black pebble exteriors. Their solid construction is packed with features designed to protect your prized watches while keeping them wound. The large LCD display makes it easy to use their fully programmable character to the fullest. They are engineered to be whisper quiet, with a sealed gearbox, a drum that is over 70mm wide and deep, so important for those larger watches. The cuff locks into the drum to keep them from falling out so they are completely safe during operation. For single to multiple watches, they are available with or without storage.
Elegance is an attitude
The Longines Saint-Imier Collection
www.longines.com
Kate Winslet
gems...
ROCK!
renowned for luxury
Tourmaline
Tanzanite
This gem can be many different colours, in fact all colours of the rainbow! The red variety called Rubellite, can be extremely valuable. It is found in Russia, USA, Madagascar, Africa and South America. Tourmaline comes from the Sri Lankan word Turamali meaning mixed gemstones, because of their many colours. One of the most exotic gems is “watermelon” tourmaline, so called because the crystals have a pink centre and green rim or vice versa. They look amazing! The largest tourmaline was a beautiful blue/green in colour and came from Paraiba in Brazil. It weighed 192cts. It is a flawless oval cut stone and is listed in the Guinness Book of Records! It is possible that a tourmaline can exhibit as many as 15 different colours or shades in a single crystal making it a true rainbow gem.
Tanzanite is a variety of Zoisite and gets its blue colour from a mineral called Vanadium. Tanzanite is a relatively new gem discovered in the 1960’s in Tanzania. Legend says the Masai Mara were driven from the land by a bush fire. Upon their return, they found the ground covered in blue crystals which had turned blue/violet from the heat of the fire! So Tanzanite was born. It is a pleochroic gem, this means it shows purple, blue and burgundy when viewed in different directions. Inexpensive gems can be a pale lilac all the way through to an intense blue or vivid violet, which you could melt into. Tanzanite is only found in an area measuring 5 miles by 3.5 miles in the foothills of Mount Kilimanjaro. There is limited supply of this striking gemstone. Some geologists think it will be gone in 10 years, which begs the question of investment!
Opal The birth stone for October. A gem which the Victorians considered unlucky but this was because opal is a hardened silica gel. Usually containing up to 10% water, it can expand or contract so it can fall out of its mount if it is not set properly. It can also dry out and crack, however don’t be put off as it is beautifully iridescent. A black opal, meaning it has a black “body” colour can show stunning flashes of colour. These are caused by the light refracting off the tiny silica spheres inside, almost like a microscopic honeycomb! Opals have been found mainly in Australia since 19th century but other localities are the Czech Republic, USA, Africa and the beautiful transparent orange variety known as Fire Opal comes from Mexico.
Garnet
This is the most unsung hero of the gemstone world. It is the birthstone for January. Most people think garnet is blood red and was popular in Victorian jewellery. Well, the garnet family is huge. It is found in every colour, most recently blue, discovered in the late 1990’s in Madagascar. It has a world-wide occurrence and some garnets, like pyrope, are found along diamond bearing minerals so they are searched for specifically to find diamonds. There is a vivid apple-green variety called Tsavorite, named after the Tsavo National Park in Kenya where it was found. Simply stunning! Garnet has been used since the bronze ages as a gemstone and an abrasive. The largest source of abrasive garnet today is the garnet-rich beach sand which is abundant on the Australian and Indian coasts. Much of it is used to sand blast. Garnet paper is traditionally used by cabinet makers. Slices of garnets have been used in windows of churches and temples and have adorned wearers since the Ancient Greeks. I think this versatile gemstone deserves greater recognition and should “adorn” some more modern day wearers!
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This stunning three carat Green Tourmaline is clasped by a 1 carat swirl of 100 pave set diamonds and set in 18ct white gold ÂŁ7,500.00
Sapphire, Ruby, Emerald and Diamond Rings mounted in 18ct white gold
BESPOKE JEWELLERY
renowned for luxury
C
reating beautiful jewellery out of metal and gemstones is a long process. The design, the sketches and the decision, followed by the sourcing lead to the models and finally, the making. This is all done either in our workshop on site or in one of our three off-site workshops. Our workshop is an essential part of Wakefields’ business. It is here that we carry out repairs, resizing, remounts and special commissions. Our goldsmith on site, Wlodek, has over 25 years’ experience, and has just become a grandad recently. He says “I have to have good concentration and dexterity, because ninety per cent of the work is done by hand. I recently created a ballerina pendant for a customer; it was laser cut and very delicate work, but I was very proud of the finished piece. The customer cried when she saw it - out of happiness! So, a good result! “ The main off site workshop has three goldsmiths who collectively have 85 years’ experience. They are specialised in remodelling old jewellery and creating one off bespoke pieces. Chris, the workshop manager offers a design service which includes cad-cam rendered images or he can provide sketches to scale. He can also make a model of the finished article in wax or silver. Chris says “We are good at interpreting what the customer wants. We take a one dimensional drawing, very often a rough sketch by Melanie, and we have to interpret that to a three dimensional model. It goes through lots of processes, including mounting, setting, polishing and hallmarking. We are lucky, we love the work we do - we have high standards. We stay late and get in early,
particularly near Christmas, but it’s a great atmosphere and buzz. I wouldn’t have it any other way. I am proud, all the guys are, that we can fashion the raw material into something that will give the wearer many years of pleasure.” “There are one or two jobs that stand out The colourful starburst pendant, pictured opposite, was particularly challenging! The gemstones, some rare ones, had been sourced from particular countries, and they were all different hardnesses, so that in itself was difficult, but setting them was a very complex job, not one I wish to repeat - but I am pleased with the end result. I like achallenge, and Melanie constantly challenges me with ever more intricate designs to achieve. The other memorable job was making a diamond ring in platinum for a customer who has just sold a large e-commerce business. The ring was worth $350,000. But we never know what will come up and every item is different, as is every customer. The feedback we get from happy customers makes it all worthwhile. These days so many people are looking to dispense of their unwanted gold. There is “cash in the attic” fever! We have been inundated with old gold, which is smelted every week. Literally we are paying out thousands of pounds every month. There has never been a better time to sell your gold. However, we are also recycling and remodelling more customers’ jewellery than ever before. We encourage the customer to be involved and come in stage by stage to see the progress of their piece. It’s a great story to tell your grandchildren, that the family bracelet became a ring, that went on to be worn and enjoyed for many years to come.
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perfect
renowned for luxury
PLATINUM RARE, BEAUTIFUL AND RESILIENT
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renowned
W
ith an appealing cool glamour all of its own, platinum is today’s choice for jewellery that is as enduring as love itself. Twenty times rarer than gold and even more lovely, a strong platinum setting makes the perfect partner for fiery diamonds, and will clasp your precious stones tight forever. It is little surprise that the world’s most fabulous diamonds, the Star of Africa and the Koh-I-Noor, are embraced in timelessly dependable platinum settings. Platinum’s tough beauty has been heralded across the world and through time. As early as 700BC, the ancient Egyptians mastered the techniques of processing platinum. The document casket of the high priestess Schepenupet is decorated with ornate hieroglyphics in platinum and can be seen today in the Louvre. The Spanish conquistadors and the Indians of the pre-Columbian South America also realised this stunning metal’s true potential. Charles IV of England commissioned a platinum room and, in 1780, King Louis XVI of France favoured this precious metal for Royal decoration. The screen goddesses Marilyn Monroe and Jayne Mansfield were known as the ‘platinum blondes’ of the big screen, and celebrities today such as Nicole Kidman, Catherine Zeta Jones and Jennifer Lopez are reportedly bewitched by this exquisite metal. Crafted at the very highest purity levels of any of the precious metals used for jewellery, all platinum in the UK is hallmarked to show its quality. Platinum articles are mostly 95 per cent pure and it is the purity that gives it a sensuous blue-whiteness that is exclusively its own. No other metal used to create jewellery is so rare and difficult to mine. Found in only a few locations in the world, it is mined predominantly in Russia and South Africa. The UK is the biggest platinum market in Europe and its appeal is clear to see. With its cool brightness, it makes the perfect partner for a diamond’s white hot fire. And with fashion loudly applauding white metal, platinum is the must-have ultimate symbol of the rare and the precious. Whether it’s combined with diamonds, sky blue sapphire, or romantic red rubies, platinum has all the attributes for a stunning piece of jewellery.
Eternally Yours The ultimate symbol of devotion, platinum conveys the rarity and brilliance of true love. With its purity of colour and spirit, it makes the ideal gift for any special occasion; from a symbol of betrothal, a promise of eternity or a gift to mark a new addition to the family. Fashionably cool and sensibly hard wearing, platinum has become a wise choice for discerning couples for their engagement and wedding rings, and to celebrate other precious moments in their lives together. With its immaculate virtues, platinum will not cause allergy or tarnish. It is also amazingly durable – even daily wear will cause minimal loss to the metal. In fact, rather than taking on a scratched appearance over time, platinum develops its own patina, burnished with the passing years. If you are investing in a beautiful cut, fiery white diamond, you need a setting that not
for luxury
only compliments their beauty, but will also hold them safe for years to come. Jewellers know it makes sense for you to invest in platinum. The price may be higher than gold, but platinum is pure and rare, enduringly beautiful and a luxurious classic, making it excellent value for money. With the average couple spending in the region of £20,000 on their wedding day, it makes sense to focus on the ensuring symbols of commitment: the rings. Longer lasting than the wedding cake, the flowers, and the fashion styles of the time, a platinum ring will be the constant reminder of your special day. It’s astonishing strength will ensure that it will hardly alter after years of marriage. Most couple’s financial considerations revolve around buying a house and car, but in these times of increased travel and global awareness, even the home is not the life purchase it once was. Taking this into consideration, the rings you buy to celebrate your marriage are likely to be the most lasting purchases you make throughout your whole life. Bearing this in mind the only answer is to purchase the rings of the purest metal – platinum. Platinum’s qualities also appeal to men and now that macho figures in the public eye are not afraid to wear and enjoy jewellery; men have much more choice today than their fathers did years ago. Today, matching wedding rings don’t have to mean just a complementary engraving inside a gold wedding band. The coolness and reassuringly weighty feel of platinum makes it ideal for creating rings for men. Precious gems for the male are also proving popular – diamonds are now both a girl’s and her man’s best friend. Favourites include brushed platinum bands featuring a subtle solitaire embedded in the cool metal, or a secret diamond hidden inside the band. As the most precious metal jewellers can offer, platinum’s hot-white good looks are as equally suited to classic designs as to designer creations. Whether your taste is classic or contemporary, ostentatious or subtle, platinum’s perfect attributes combine with any precious stone to create stunning jewellery, which will be as eternally beautiful and long lasting as the reason for the gift itself.
About Platinum Platinum is the best setting for all types and colours of gems. Its brilliant white lustre reflects their true colour and its superior strength holds them securely. Platinum jewellery is the purest jewellery. It is totally skin compatible and never tarnishes or loses its deep white colour. Platinum is 20 times rarer than gold. It is worked into jewellery by the most skilled craftsmen and is sold by the best jewellers. Platinum jewellery is eternal. Made to last a lifetime – and even longer – it is extremely resistant to everyday wear and tear. Platinum jewellery is beautiful to the touch. It has a silky polished surface and a sensuous, heavier feel and speaks of value, beauty and quality. WA K E F I E L D S
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renowned for luxury
I WANT TO BE A PART OF IT Fifth Avenue is fabulous but anyone who’s anyone is migrating outwards into the city’s up and coming neighbourhoods. We skip the Empire State Building and hail a yellow cab to the new New York
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n a first or even second visit to New York, you’d be forgiven for spending most of your time looking up. For many of us, taking an ‘elevator’ to the 50th floor of a building is quite the novelty (unless you’re a Canary Wharf commuter) – and to be fair it’s usually where the best hotel rooms can be found. But there is much more to see and do at ground level in the city these days, and it has nothing to do with Grand Central Station or the Statue of Liberty. While much of the world has spent the last decade associating the city with September 11 and the recent hurricane Sandy, New Yorkers themselves have been steadfast in their resolve to ensure its business as usual, which has helped maintain its place as one of the best cities on the planet (if not THE best). But before the attack on the Twin Towers, New York was already becoming safer. Mayor Rudy Giuliani’s sheriff-style zero tolerance crack down on crime chased the undesirables out of many of Manhattan’s neighbourhoods, making room for the likes of Michelin starred chefs and Stella McCartney to move in. These days it is not just Saks, the Four Seasons or Midtown restaurants that are attracting people with money to spend. Locals (and any tourists in the know) are gracing the Lower East Side with their presence, where a formerly arty and bohemian crowd (as well as an Irish contingent) has paved the way for a host of creative talent to set up shop. Although a place to steer clear from a decade ago, it has become gentrified, with a hip infusion, thanks to fresh art galleries, boutiques and restaurants. In the Meatpacking district, traditionally a neighbourhood made up of meat-importing warehouses, you will find more restaurants opened by adventurous and world-class chefs taking advantage of the cheaper rent and adding to the city’s thriving collection of independent venues, as well as clubs where only the bold and the beautiful will gain admission.
Proprietors have turned the less than elegant exteriors to their advantage, creating industrial-inspired spaces that look the part on the inside. The neighbourhood is home to the not-so-new Pastise, which has retained its crown as one of New York’s restaurants to beat when it comes to attracting the cool crowd since opening in 1999. Eat there (assuming you can get a reservation) and you could be just a table or two away from the likes of Sarah Jessica Parker. But, do bear in mind that no New Yorker would ever admit to caring, so no photos please. If you’re in this neck of the woods a refreshment break at the Hotel Gansevoort is highly recommended. It has a bar where you can watch the sunset over the Hudson River. Another resourceful adaptation of the area’s industrial roots is a newly landscaped, 20-block railway track called the Highline - ideal for walking off your French brasserie brunch. Although Fifth Avenue remains one of the best shopping areas in the world, Soho has become a haven for those looking for a mixture of big name designers and small independent boutiques. Make the short journey and you’ll find vintage dress shops beside the big boys, including Prada, Chanel and John Varvatos. It’s also a rare place to find newer designers such as Kate Spade, who can showcase their talents to those attracted by American fashion veterans like Mr Ralph Lauren. If you’re more interested in fresh food than fashion, head to Union Square on a Saturday where New Yorkers go for the weekly farmer’s market. It’s also just a stone’s throw from Gramercy (another neighbourhood to explore) where you can dine at the world famous Gramercy Tavern – consistently named as one of New York’s top ten. Needless to say, in New York there are sights that simply must be seen. But once you’ve checked them off your list, grab a yellow cab and take a bigger bite of the apple. Because wander around a bit and you will find a culture like nowhere else in the world. The real New York – the New Yorker’s New York. WA K E F I E L D S
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ALEXIS DOVE
Alexis Dove is a British Designer of unique and beautiful jewellery. The collections, all hand made in Sussex, include motifs of wild roses, foxes and seashells decorated with semi-precious beads and pearls, in silver and vermeil. Foxy Gold Vermeil Pendant From £95.00
Foxy Silver Double row bracelet From £110.00
Foxy Silver ring From £85.00
“My journey to where I am now has not been an easy one but what I have learnt and endured has made me realise what a great job I have. I get to put my personality into the food and the restaurant and cook what excites me. There’s an amazing feeling of taking a humble ingredient and transforming it into something exciting. In The Pass I get to witness first hand a guests reaction to a dish. That facial expression when something tastes better than imagined tells me the journey has been worth it so far, and motivates me to push a little further.�
THE PASS
renowned for luxury
South Lodge Hotel
The road to success for The Pass’ Head Chef Matt Gillan
M
att’s career started straight from school at The Hen and Chicken in Froyle, Hampshire. This initial step into the kitchen highlighted a natural talent and flair for cooking, cementing Matt’s decision to pursue the career of a chef over the previous desire to become a graphic designer. From here, Matt made it his mission to learn as much as possible, taking him through some of the country’s best restaurants. Restaurant Gordon Ramsay, Midsummer House and The Vineyard at Stockcross, under John Campbell, would go on to shape Matt more than he realised. Matt then took a year out to travel. His
year in Australia proved to be more than just a long holiday; after spending time at Vue du Monde in Melbourne and picking fruits and vegetables along the east coast, a new-found respect for produce and the seasons began. In 2006, Matt joined South Lodge Hotel in West Sussex. As sous chef, Matt worked closely with Executive Chef Lewis Hamblet in the running of the Camellia restaurant and a year later Matt was promoted to Head Chef. The opportunity to head up our brand new concept restaurant became reality in October 2008 and so began the journey in The Pass. A culmination of all Matt’s experiences over the years have earned The Pass 4 AA Rosettes, 7/10 Good Food Guide and a coveted Michelin star in 2011.
WA K E F I E L D S
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BABETTE WASSERMAN Cloud Necklaces From £105.00
Tab Necklaces From £227.00
Tanzanite is a rare gem found only in the foothills of Mount Kilimanjaro. Cushion cut Tanzanite with crescent cut Diamonds in Platinum ÂŁ5800.00
eternity...
FOR
The Oyster Perpe
SKY-DWELL
A compelling timepiece of revolutionar design that blends to perfection techno sophistication and ease of use. the SKY-DWEllER provides in an unprecedented and highly original way, the information global travellers need to easily keep track of time: a dual time zone, with local time read via centre hands and a reference time display in 24-hour format read via a rotating off-centre disc visible on the dial; a particularly innovative annual calendar named SARoS – in tribute to the astronomical phenomenon which inspired it – that requires only one date adjustment a year, when the month changes from February to March and a month display by means of 12 discreet apertures around the circumference of the dial. A majestic expression of the art of watchmaking and the product of Rolex’s exceptional technical expertise, the SKY-DWEllER is as intuitive to read as it is simple to use. local time, reference time and the date are rapidly set using a highly innovative interface between the case and movement. the rotatable RinG CoMMAnD bezel is the focal point of the interface, allowing the wearer to select the individual functions to be set simply by turning the bezel. Each function can then be adjusted swiftly and easily in both
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