Roberto Coin Jasmine Mother of Pearl Flower Pendant Necklace
Flower Earrings
Marco Bicego Paradise Mixed Topaz Bracelet
James Free Collection Double Diamond Hoop Earrings
James Free Collection Mixed Shape Diamond Hoop Earrings
Roberto Coin Vernazza Diamond and Amazonite Flower Necklace
Roberto Coin Medallion Mother of Pearl Stud Earrings
John Hardy Essential Crossover Ring
James Free Collection Diamond Hoop Earrings
James Free Collection Diamond Station Bracelet
James Free Collection Diamond Oval Cut Earrings
Natural Diamond Council Global Ambassador, Actress Lily James
Formed deep within the Earth billions of years ago, these finite and unique natural wonders are the oldest objects you will ever touch. Natural diamonds provide employment, education, and healthcare for local communities from the Northwest Territories of Canada to Botswana in Southern Africa and protect vulnerable ecosystems for the future.
Discover Our Natural Diamond Jewelry Collections
Left to right:
Goshwara Blue Topaz Octagon Stud Earrings
Roberto Coin Signature Diamond Dangle Earrings
Goshwara Prasiolite Octagon Stud Earrings
Marco Bicego Jaipur Multi Gemstone Hoop Earrings
Roberto Coin Love in Verona Diamond Earrings
James Free Collection Three Loop Emerald Earrings
James Free Collection Diamond Flower Earrings
Roberto Coin Venetian Princess Heart Earrings
James Free Collection Pear Shape Aquamarine & Tourmaline Dangle Earrings
Up your game with stylish and sophisticated sports watches from James Free.
Technological advances made during World War II, a post-war economic boom in places that were largely untouched by battle like the U.S. and Switzerland and a renewed interest in sport and travel created a new market for watchmakers in the 1950s: the sports watch. What had originally been considered tool watches for professionals was evolving into stylish and robust timepieces made to address the specific needs of sportsmen and
Built for jet pilots, the Breitling Avenger is designed to take on the toughest cockpits and keep coming back for more. But you don’t need Air Force credentials to appreciate its bold design, exceptional resilience and next-level functionality. Pairing performance with sophisticated modern aviation style, the collection’s materials—stainless steel on regular models; ceramic and titanium on Night Mission—are the stuff of aviation design, while dial colors are drawn from military uniform shades. All stainless-steel versions come with a choice of military leather strap with a folding-pin buckle or threerow stainless-steel bracelet with micro-adjustable folding clasp. Ceramic models are paired to a military leather strap with a titanium folding-pin buckle. And whether you can pull off a barrel roll or not, you’ll appreciate everything about the Avenger’s 300m water resistance, easy-grip functionality and corrosion-resistant construction.
adventurers whether diving, mountaineering, yachting, flying or racing.
Robust in construction and designed for legibility and wearability, sports watches boast sturdy stainless steel or titanium cases, highly reliable movements and readable, well-laid-out dials with luminous hands and hour markers to accommodate a variety of conditions and environments. They also have a tradition of incorporating a dazzling and ever-expanding array of sport-specific functions. For instance, dive watches are by necessity luminous and water-
proof with screw-down casebacks and crowns. They also boast specially made straps to fit over wetsuits, unidirectional bezels for monitoring air supply, and since their invention have achieved increasing depth ratings with astounding technological advances like the helium release valve. Racing watches first rose to popularity in the 1960s through auto racing and featured chronograph functions and tachymeters for timing laps. Racing watches today feature tachymeters with scales specific to the speeds achieved by different types of racers —i.e., watches made for auto, yacht and even cycling competitors. When pilots began flying routes over the poles, aviation watches became antimagnetic. Several featured 24-hour dials and tracked a second time zone. Today, there are aviation watches capable of tracking
From top: Master the oceans with the TAG Heuer Aquaracer Professional 300. This 42mm watch, featuring a unique black and green ceramic bezel and a GMT chronometer, is driven by the COSCcertified calibre TH31-00, offering 80 hours of power reserve. It’s the ultimate companion for tracking time across the seven seas.
The Seamaster Aqua Terra is a superb tribute to OMEGA’s rich maritime heritage. In this 41mm model, the symmetrical case has been crafted from stainless steel, with a wave-edged design featured on the back. The silvery dial is distinguished by a horizontal “teak” pattern, which is inspired by the wooden decks of luxury sailboats. There is also a date window at 6 o’clock and blackened hands and indexes filled with white Super-LumiNova. Orange is used for the central seconds hand, the “Seamaster” wording and the four quarter numbers on the minute track. The gray strap is made from structured rubber and includes gray lining and an additional stainless steel link, which integrates it to the case. This certified chronometer is powered by the OMEGA Master Chronometer calibre 8900, certified at the industry’s highest standard by the Swiss Federal Institute of Metrology (METAS).
multiple time zones, with some even having an altimeter function, making those timepieces useful for flying as well as climbing.
Sports watches continue to enjoy tremendous popularity as much for their utilitarian nature as for their bold and flexible style. While designed to aid and accompany the avid sportsman or adventurer, they are also a stylish and classic timepiece versatile enough to wear every day.
From left: Measuring 43.5 mm across and backed by assurances of a 30-bar (300-metre) water-resistance rating, the stainless steel Aquis Date Relief by Oris is a high-functioning, high-performance Swiss made wristwatch. A tool watch you can rely on, the Aquis Date Relief 43.5 mm is chosen for its practical, lightweight rubber strap that comes in a vibrant red. It features an extendable clasp for quick fit adjustments over a wetsuit. Its name derives from the minutes scale in relief on the unidirectional bezel, useful for timing dives (or pasta).
The Polaris Chronograph features a superb signature dial in lacquered gray. From the lightest to the darkest, the gradation of multiple nuances is achieved thanks to a process that consists of applying almost 40 layers of varnish followed by colored and transparent lacquer to the dial before the final step: polishing. In its 42 mm steel case, the dial has three levels of finishing: an internal opaline bezel, a grained circle for the hours and indexes, as well as a sunray-brushed center. Perfectly legible, the chronograph stands out for its iconic attributes: central second, tachymeter and 30-minute counter at 3 o’clock. Highlighting the Maison’s watchmaking expertise, its Jaeger-LeCoultre calibre 761 features an integrated chronograph mechanism, equipped with a column-wheel with vertical clutch. The Polaris Chronograph promises 65 hours of power reserve—very welcome for a watch built for adventure. Graced with sporty and functional elegance, it comes with a beige fabric strap and another in black rubber.
ON THE MOVE
Bold, assertive and eye-catching, Messika’s So Move collection shows everyone exactly where they should look—at you.
It’s been true since the brand’s launch in 2005—if you want the cutting edge of style, the perfect balance of oldschool classic and youthful energy, and effortless, empowering jewelry, you go directly to Messika. Valérie Messika designs jewelry to live and thrive in, to accompany you through everyday moments and life’s most beautiful moments alike, and she’s taken that to the next level with the So Move collection.
Bold and assertive, So Move embodies power. It takes the brand’s iconic, understated Move collection’s silhouette, with its distinctive sliding diamonds, and breathes into it a sense of play, experimenting with size and thickness to create something that demands immediate attention. Each piece is designed to both stand on its own and offer an invitation to mix, match and layer—think thick, ontrend chain bracelets, intense necklaces and eye-catching XL hoop earrings. The combinations are nearly endless. You’re sure to find something that embodies your style perfectly, no matter your age, aesthetic or gender.
Where Move caresses, So Move impacts. Messika’s Uno is transformed from something fine and delicate to something strong, intense and sure to make a statement. Radiant, sparkling diamonds catch the light and express the strength and inner beauty of the wearer. The collection walks the line between feminine and masculine effortlessly, offering a universal symbol of self-affirmation and a new, exciting signature for everyone.
“This set was a daring but exhilarating challenge for me,” says Valérie Messika. “I loved the idea of transforming this discreet jewel into such a powerful and expressive piece.”
Stand out with Messika’s So Move collection. Clockwise from the top: XL So Move earrings, So Move XL necklace, So Move pavé necklace, So Move XL bracelets, So Move link pendant earrings, So Move link bracelet.
The harmony of contrasts
With its latest creations, Rolex brings a fresh new look to some of its most iconic models. Thanks to the brand’s in-house mastery of watchmaking expertise, the new timepieces play with contrasts to achieve a harmonious balance of functionality and aesthetics, performance and preciousness, tradition and innovation.
Offering unique harmonies of materials, colours and textures, the 2024 watches illustrate a desire to constantly reawaken watchmaking emotions, while demonstrating uncompromising quality down to the smallest detail.
OYSTER PERPETUAL day-date
OYSTER PERPETUAL gmt-master II
Echoing emotions
OYSTER PERPETUAL gmt-master II
Echoing emotions
For the first time, the Oyster Perpetual GMT-Master II in Oystersteel is presented with a Cerachrom bezel insert in grey and black ceramic. Introduced to the range in 2023, this muted colour contrast subtly evokes the alternation of day and night.
For the first time, the Oyster Perpetual GMT-Master II in Oystersteel is presented with a Cerachrom bezel insert in grey and black ceramic. Introduced to the range in 2023, this muted colour contrast subtly evokes the alternation of day and night.
Two new versions are offered, combining discretion and functionality: one with an Oyster bracelet, the other with a Jubilee bracelet. Their green 24-hour hand displays much more than just an alternative time zone. It points to another location that resonates with the wearer – a reminder of the emotions that accompany each traveller.
Two new versions are offered, combining discretion and functionality: one with an Oyster bracelet, the other with a Jubilee bracelet. Their green 24-hour hand displays much more than just an alternative time zone. It points to another
Harmonious variations
OYSTER PERPETUAL day-date
Harmonious variations
The new versions of the Oyster Perpetual Day-Date express the brand’s enduring desire for rare and wide-ranging expertise to be found in even the smallest details. Colours, materials, motifs, hour markers – each element contributes to the harmony of the new combinations.
The new versions of the Oyster Perpetual Day-Date express the brand’s enduring desire for rare and wide-ranging expertise to be found in even the smallest details. Colours, materials, motifs, hour markers – each element contributes to the harmony of the new combinations.
Two new versions of the Oyster Perpetual Day-Date 40 are unveiled. The first, in 18 ct Everose gold, introduces a slate ombré dial. This design offers a delicate transition between light at the centre of the dial and darkness around the edge. The second version, in 18 ct white gold, features a pearlized white mother-of-pearl dial. Its irregular, voluminous texture evokes tiny overlapping clouds that play with the light.
Two new versions of the Oyster Perpetual Day-Date 40 are unveiled. The first, in 18 ct Everose gold, introduces a slate ombré dial. This design offers a delicate transition between light at the centre of the dial and darkness around the edge. The second version, in 18 ct white gold, features a pearlized white mother-of-pearl dial. Its irregular, voluminous texture evokes tiny overlapping clouds that play with the light.
The Oyster Perpetual Day-Date 36 is also released in two new versions. The first, in 18 ct yellow gold, has a white lacquer dial with faceted, deconstructed Roman numerals and faceted index hour markers. The second version is presented in 18 ct Everose gold with a blue-green dial. This deep, intense colour is illuminated by a bezel set with 60 trapeze-cut diamonds.
The Oyster Perpetual Day-Date 36 is also released in two new versions. The first, in 18 ct yellow gold, has a white lacquer dial with faceted, deconstructed Roman numerals and faceted index hour markers. The second version is presented in 18 ct Everose gold with a blue-green dial. This deep, intense colour is illuminated by a bezel set with 60 trapeze-cut diamonds.
PERPETUAL 1908
Elegance in movement
PERPETUAL 1908
Elegance in movement
The Perpetual 1908 is now available in 950 platinum with an ice blue dial, a hue that is exclusively for Rolex watches in this prestigious metal. On this guilloché dial with a rice-grain motif, light bounces off the raised pattern, producing a variety of reflections with every movement of the wrist. The decoration alludes to traditional watchmaking, yet the rosette-like design, centred on the small seconds counter at 6 o’clock, gives this watch exceptional personality.
A watch of rare distinction, the new 1908 is a visual masterpiece that affirms its unique identity with elegance and finesse.
The Perpetual 1908 is now available in 950 platinum with an ice blue dial, a hue that is exclusively for Rolex watches in this prestigious metal. On this guilloché dial with a rice-grain motif, light bounces off the raised pattern, producing a variety of reflections with every movement of the wrist. The decoration alludes to traditional watchmaking, yet the rosette-like design, centred on the small seconds counter at 6 o’clock, gives this watch exceptional personality.
A watch of rare distinction, the new 1908 is a visual masterpiece that affirms its unique identity with elegance and finesse.
OYSTER PERPETUAL rolex deepsea
Bringing light to the deep
OYSTER PERPETUAL rolex deepsea
Bringing light to the deep
The first Rolex deep-sea divers’ watch in 18 ct yellow gold, the new Oyster Perpetual Rolex Deepsea is decked in blue on its dial, its bezel insert and its compression ring. Made from blue ceramic – a technical innovation that is the result of a pioneering manufacturing process –, this Cerachrom ring is decorated with a circular satin finish. It forms part of the Ringlock system, a case architecture that enables the watch to withstand the colossal pressure of the deep-sea.
The first Rolex deep-sea divers’ watch in 18 ct yellow gold, the new Oyster Perpetual Rolex Deepsea is decked in blue on its dial, its bezel insert and its compression ring. Made from blue ceramic – a technical innovation that is the result of a pioneering manufacturing process –, this Cerachrom ring is decorated with a circular satin finish. It forms part of the Ringlock system, a case architecture that enables the watch to withstand the colossal pressure of the deep-sea.
Precious and technical. Majestic and innovative. A bright watch for the dark abyss. This new version of the Rolex Deepsea is engineered to shine into the ocean depths.
Precious and technical. Majestic and innovative. A bright watch for the dark abyss. This new version of the Rolex Deepsea is engineered to shine into the ocean depths.
OYSTER PERPETUAL COSMOGRAPH DAYTONA
An icon eternally revisited
OYSTER PERPETUAL COSMOGRAPH DAYTONA
An icon eternally revisited
Rolex presents two new versions of the Oyster Perpetual Cosmograph Daytona whose dials contrast white and black natural mother-of-pearl and a bezel set with brilliant-cut diamonds. These reinterpretations of the iconic watch achieve the perfect balance of precision and preciousness.
Rolex presents two new versions of the Oyster Perpetual Cosmograph Daytona whose dials contrast white and black natural mother-of-pearl and a bezel set with brilliant-cut diamonds. These reinterpretations of the iconic watch achieve the perfect balance of precision and preciousness.
A subtle interplay of hues reflects wide-ranging expertise, from gem-setting to the art of dial making. The watches, made from 18 ct white gold, write another chapter in the legendary story of a model known for a wealth of variations, summoning the potential in each of us for perpetual reinvention.
A subtle interplay of hues reflects wide-ranging expertise, from gem-setting to the art of dial making. The watches, made from 18 ct white gold, write another chapter in the legendary story of a model known for a wealth of vari-
OYSTER PERPETUAL sky-dweller
OYSTER PERPETUAL sky-dweller
The symphony of reflections
The symphony of reflections
Sophisticated, technical and distinguished, the Oyster Perpetual Sky-Dweller in 18 ct Everose or yellow gold is now available with a Jubilee bracelet. By alternating the size and finish of the links, with smaller, polished centre links and larger, satin-finished outer links, the Jubilee bracelet in 18 ct gold stands out for its wealth of reflections and harmonious forms.
Designed to enable tireless travellers to rapidly find their bearings, the Sky-Dweller reaffirms its elegance and is a delight to the senses.
Sophisticated, technical and distinguished, the Oyster Perpetual Sky-Dweller in 18 ct Everose or yellow gold is now available with a Jubilee bracelet. By alternating the size and finish of the links, with smaller, polished centre links and larger, satin-finished outer links, the Jubilee bracelet in 18 ct gold stands out for its wealth of reflections and harmonious forms.
Designed to enable tireless travellers to rapidly find their bearings, the Sky-Dweller reaffirms its elegance and is a delight to the senses.
LOVE IN VERONA
DISCOVER HOW THE NATURAL DIAMOND INDUSTRY HELPED TRANSFORM THE NOW THRIVING SOUTHERN AFRICAN COUNTRY.
BY SHELLEY BROWN
OF B OTSWANA
THE D IAMONDS B RILLIANCE
Transformation is a word often associated with the formation of natural diamonds. Over the course of billions of years, carbon atoms slowly formed into brilliant gems deep within the earth. For Botswana, diamonds and transformation have another poignant connection: the ability of the natural diamond trade to transform the fortunes of a country.
THE HISTORY OF DIAMONDS IN BOTSWANA
Botswana, a landlocked country in Southern Africa, is both the birthplace of modern humans over 200,000 years ago and brilliant diamonds, formed billions of years before that. The discovery of the first significant deposit of diamonds in
Botswana happened in 1967, just one year after the country gained independence from Britain. At the time, it was the third poorest country in the world, with minimal infrastructure. The country’s founding president, Sir Seretse Khama made it his mission to build a government with an ambitious economic development program centered around the country’s resources.
Natural diamonds quickly became the cornerstone of Botswana’s economic development. All diamond mining in Botswana operates under a licensing agreement with the government in which 80 percent of diamond-related revenues are put back into the country’s economy. Today, Botswana is now the world’s number one diamond-producing country by value. The diamond industry accounts for 30 percent of the country’s GDP and 80 percent of its exports.
The majority of the country’s diamond mines are managed by Debswana Diamond Company, a joint venture between the Botswana government and the global mining giant De Beers. Botswana mines have consistently recovered high-quality gems coveted worldwide.
Starry night sky over the Okavango Delta in Botswana.
In 2013, the formation of Okavango Diamond Company (ODC) marked another pivotal moment in history. ODC is wholly owned by the Botswana government. As Botswana’s first stateowned diamond trading company, it has empowered the nation to responsibly manage its most prized natural resource, diversifying the market and bolstering its now thriving economy.
ECONOMIC IMPACT
Diamonds account for a staggering 80 percent of Botswana’s export revenue, fueling the nation’s growth and prosperity and lifting its populace out of poverty. This revenue stream has enabled Botswana to invest in critical infrastructure, as well as education and healthcare. Much of Botswana’s 2.3 million population benefits from free education for children and universal healthcare. The diamond industry also provides employment to thousands, making Botswana the highest per capita GDP of any continental African nation.
THE HERITAGE OF THE BOTSWANA DIAMONDS
A diamond from Botswana offers an origin story consumers can believe in. By centralizing operations, the government ensures both transparency and maximum returns from its diamond trade, which are then reinvested in infrastructure and government programs.
While a full range of diamonds come from Botswana, one treasure in particular captured international attention. The famed Okavango Blue, mined as a 41.11 carat rough that yielded a 20.46 carat “fancy deep blue” diamond was discovered at the Orapa Mine in 2018. Owned by ODC, it is the largest and rarest blue diamond ever found in the country.
SUSTAINABILITY
Initiatives such as community development projects and environmental conservation efforts underscore Botswana’s commitment to responsible diamond mining. Upon the closure of mining operations, extensive efforts are undertaken to restore the land to its natural state, ensuring minimal long-term environmental impact. Additionally, Botswana has implemented stringent regulations to safeguard water resources and wildlife habitats in and around mining areas.
To ensure the integrity and ethical provenance of its diamonds, ODC subjects its diamonds to rigorous certification processes from reputable third-party organizations such as the Gemological Institute of America (GIA) and Rapaport. ODC recently introduced the Green Star Source Programme, enabling the traceability of polished diamonds back to Botswana.
Innovation is integral to ODC’s sustainability journey, and the organization continually invests in research and development to continually enhance its practices. ODC is constructing a stateof-the-art facility with a rooftop and carport Photo Voltic (PV) system at its new headquarters. This solar power generation infrastructure will significantly reduce the environmental impact.
Botswana’s journey from a landlocked nation with a tumultuous history to a beacon of economic success is intertwined with its diamond legacy. Through prudent management and a deep appreciation for its natural resources, Botswana has leveraged its diamond wealth to uplift its people and secure a brilliant future. A natural diamond from Botswana is a symbol of transformation, progress, and human potential—sourced from where it all began.
The Okavango Blue, a 20.46 carat fancy deep blue diamond discovered in the Orapa Mine in 2018.
Students at the Livingstone House Primary School run by Debswana in Orapa. Photographed by Molly SJ Lowe. Left: the Okavango Blue rough diamond.
VENICE BY TWILIGHT
Early evening in the “city of canals” brings a special magic the daytime tourists miss. By
Everett Potter
You’re intrigued, no doubt, by the Venice that draws travelers—the historic city of canals, the place that inspired Shakespeare and Thomas Mann, the venerable city-state that 800 years ago was a trading power with no peer. So yes, sightsee as much as you like during the day. But twilight is when this magical place—the best walking city I’ve ever visited—becomes a stage set with a glorious role for you. The ochre walls seem to glow, the lights of the palazzos go on, and there’s little doubt that you’re in the most romantic city in the world. Feel those cooling breezes wafting in from the lagoon? Pretty soon you’ll notice that the masses of day trippers have departed with the sun—budget tourists who’ve left for their hotels on the mainland in Mestre. That’s fine. Now the curtain has risen and Venice has become your secret show.
But this isn’t Berlin, Rome or Prague—it’s not a place for partying. The fact is that restaurants are
stacking their chairs not long after 10 p.m., while many bars close by 11. It’s the rare boîte that stays open until midnight. So I prefer to be in league with the locals, who choose twilight to leave their homes for a local bar or café for an aperitivo. In Venice, that drink is a highly ritualized one and is typically either an ombra or a spritz. An ombra is a tiny glass of red or white wine that is tossed back quite quickly. A spritz is an aperitivo of white wine, Campari and a shot of seltzer or sparkling water. Prosecco, the bubbly white wine made in the hills of the Veneto region, is also a favorite.
This is also when classic Venetian wine bars, or bacari, offer snacks called cicchetti, the Venetian version of tapas. They can include baccalà
mantecato (creamed salt cod) on warm polenta, or polpette (breaded morsels) of meat, cheese or tuna. There could be sardele in saor (sardines with sweet and sour onions and sultanas) or ovosodo con arringa (hard boiled egg topped with herring fillet). My favorite is seppioline alla griglia (grilled baby squid).
The best way to enjoy these true Venetian cicchetti is to do as many locals do and engage in a giro de ombre, literally an ombra-crawl, hitting various small bacari. In this twilight ritual you literally rub shoulders with a wide range of Venetians relaxing. And after a while you realize you’ve also eaten dinner—there’s no need for a formal meal. It’s a cool mélange of sightseeing, dining and drinking.
But where to go? For decades, the favorite tourist haunt for an aperitivo has been Harry’s Bar,
Evenings in Venice are known more for their lively cafés than crowded nightclubs. Venetians often partake in a highly ritualized consumption of light cocktails and food throughout the night.
which opened in 1931 and claims to have invented the Bellini, named after the Venetian painter Giovanni Bellini. The cocktail consists of prosecco from the Veneto blended with white peach purée and served ice cold. It’s beyond delicious, and having just one requires willpower. You’ll be in good spiritual company here—Truman Capote, Orson Welles and Charlie Chaplin all haunted Harry’s, as did Ernest Hemingway and the heiress and art patron Peggy Guggenheim. Today there will be well-dressed Venetians inside and perhaps too many tourists.
So visit Harry’s at least once. But for a true giro de ombre, head to other places for a tipple as the sun goes down, to bacari that are more local and more chic. Wander the streets as the many church bells mark the time, with a backdrop of kids shouting in a square as they thump a soccer ball off a thousand-year-old wall. One memorable night I stood outside of La Fenice, the fabled opera house. The performance was sold out but you could hear opera emanating from the windows and doors, filling nearby streets with a performance too big to be contained within four walls. No other city is quiet enough for quite this experience.
Your next stop could be Al Prosecco, which is on Campo San Giacomo dell’Orio, one of Venice’s great neighborhood squares and away from the well-worn tourist routes. Here you can watch the locals on the square and sip some of the city’s finest prosecco, even sampling the slightly more sophisticated prosecco fermo, a non-effervescent version.
Venice is remarkably safe after nightfall. I’ve always thought that for that reason it’s the best city on Earth in which to get lost. Eventually you’ll find your way to wherever you’re going, thanks to the kindness of strangers or maybe a street map from your hotel stuck into a back pocket. (Note that your phone’s GPS may not work well in the stone maze.)
I know from experience about getting lost. One night I left a restaurant with a group of friends, offering to lead everyone back to our hotel. I pride myself on my innate sense of direction, and so we walked left and then right, down one passageway and then another, into a square and beyond, as they talked and I navigated with confidence. Less than 10 minutes later, we found ourselves standing in front of the restaurant we had just left. Was it a touch too much prosecco? Or had we been bewitched? So throw caution to the wind. For a glimpse of
the real Venice, head to Osteria al Squero, which has a terrific northern Italian wine selection and a creative array of cicchetti. It’s across a canal from one of Venice’s last remaining squeri, or gondola workshops, and you can watch this ancient craft while sipping your wine.
Then head back to the labyrinth of canals big and small, of twisting alleys and winding passageways leading in and out of myriad squares. Even at twilight, it’s an architectural feast for the eyes, with stone doorways and balconies and
which is ridiculously good.
I like to end my evenings in Venice by walking across St. Mark’s Square. It’s when the Café Florian is emptying and it’s a good time to sit, listen to a budding Vivaldi playing to the nighttime crowd and have a final glass of wine or a coffee. Then to the pier to be transported like an Italian film star in a vintage wooden launch to the Belmond Hotel Cipriani, a seasonal hotel that lies across the Grand Canal on the island called Giudecca. I first stayed here 25 years ago—it dazzled me then
elaborate stairways, worn by hundreds of years of footsteps and weather.
If you want to go really local, squeeze into Osteria alla Ciurma in the Rialto. It will be jammed with regulars standing, or perched on a stool if they’re fortunate, under a ceiling hung with vintage fishing boats. Have an ombra, order some cicchetti and try to blend in.
For a hipper locals’ place, go to Al Merca, also in the Rialto. A bar by default, it serves ombra and cicchetti but there’s nowhere to sit. You can stand on the edge of the square and rub shoulders with some of the city’s cooler kids.
Feeling full now? Just walk some more. The Adriatic laps at the city’s feet and the crush of visitors has left its mark, but never has decay seemed quite so splendid. By this point, the need for gelato has probably kicked in. Lots of small shops sell it, but I love Gelateria Nico on the Dorsoduro,
and it still does. It has extraordinary views of the Doge’s Palace and the Venetian Lagoon. There are rooms with balconies overlooking the water and the hotel’s private garden, as well as suites in various sizes, all decorated in an opulent, gilded style. Few places in Europe can rival the sense of grandeur here. Outside there are elaborately tended gardens along the water and the only swimming pool in Venice, remarkable especially for its Olympic size. The legend is that the measurements were mistakenly given in meters rather than feet; hence the gargantuan dimensions of this salt-water pool. It will be spotlit when you return late at night, so head to bed and arise by midmorning for a palatial breakfast. Then join the gathering sunbathers around its perimeter in midmorning. Put on your hippest shades and relax, for this is the ultimate spot in Venice to recover from the previous evening’s giro de ombre.
As the sun disappears, so do the tourists, leaving daytime destinations like famed St. Mark’s Square peacefully quiet.
VIVA ESPAÑA
The cuisine found in this Iberian Peninsula country reflects the history of the land and lifestyle of the people.
To gain a deeper understanding of another culture, one need not venture far into foreign land—in many cases, local restaurants and bistros can enlighten as well as a teacher and a tour guide. Food so often holds the story of a people’s history, traditions and values, as it does so perfectly in Spain. The cuisine found here in the heart of the Iberian Peninsula comes from centuries of family recipes, each one tweaked and perfected by one generation and handed down to the next. Spanish dishes also are influenced with flavors from neighboring countries such as Andorra and France, while the ingredients used (or excluded) differ depending on the region. In culture-rich Catalonia, for instance, a dish ordered in capital city Barcelona might contain both prawns and pork, whereas this “mar i muntanya” (sea and mountain) mix would be considered unusual elsewhere. No matter the region or community, however, Spanish cuisine incorporates fresh meat, seafood, vegetables and olive oil—some of the staples of what’s known as the Mediterranean diet. It’s no wonder why food and dining is a big part of the lifestyle in Spain, as it has been for generations.
Originally from the Valencia community, paella is now known as a traditional Spanish dish. It’s made mostly of rice and vegetables, with variations that include mussels, shrimp, squid, pork, rabbit and other meats.
This page, clockwise from left: Though sangria is a national drink in Spain, it’s highly regarded around the world for its delightful and refreshing taste; Spanish tapas adorned with capsicum and prawns are popular to share with family and friends; in Catalonia, cuisine often includes heavy garlic flavor, as found in al ajillo shrimp. Opposite page: Taking a cue from the French, many families prepare caracoles, a traditional Catalonian escargot stew.
This page, clockwise from top: Coffee shops in Catalonia are the perfect venue to sample Spanish sweets; Cadaques corks (biscuits) are extra delectable when served on custard cream; it’s easy to find and enjoy churros on the streets of Barcelona. Opposite page: Crema Catalana (custard with caramelized sugar) is a dessert that’s popular among locals and jet-setting foodies.
JAMES FREE 2024
WE’RE BETTER TOGETHER
At James Free, we believe that thriving communities are built on strong connections. As a locally owned business, we take pride in our roots and are dedicated to supporting the organizations that make our neighborhood a vibrant place to live and work.
From partnering with local schools to sponsoring community events, our commitment to giving back is at the heart of what we do. Together, we are not just improving our community; we are fostering a sense of belonging and pride. We invite our customers to join us in this mission.
Through our various initiatives, including our watch battery program, you can see firsthand the difference we’re making together. When you shop at James Free, you’re not just supporting a business; you’re investing in the future of our community.
This page, clockwise from top left: Glen Helen Raptor Center “Whoo Cooks for You”; Montgomery Inn Ribs King Foundation Fundraiser; Girls on the Run; Sam Hubbard Chip in for Charity. Opposite page, from top, left to right: Anthony Munoz Foundation; JDRF; Cincinnati Ronald McDonald House; Beacon Orthopaedic Research & Education Foundation Fundraiser Golf Outing; Moeller Moms’ Club Fashion Show; We Care Arts Watch Battery Program Donation; Joe Burrow Foundation Golf; Sam Hubbard Chip in for Charity Golf Fundraiser; Cincinnati Ronald McDonald House; Humane Society Pet Afflaire.
HOLIDAY HOURS 2024
STARTING DECEMBER 9:
Monday–Friday, 10 a.m.–8 p.m.
Saturdays, 10 a.m.–5 p.m.
Sunday, December 15, noon–5 p.m.
Sunday, December 22, noon–5 p.m.
Tuesday, December 24, 10 a.m.– 4 p.m.
CLOSED Thursday, December 26
SHIPPING
Next day shipping available
Cincinnati, OH USA
9555 Main St. Montgomery, OH 45242
513.793.0133
COMPLIMENTARY GIFT WRAP
Any purchase from James Free Jewelers can be beautifully wrapped by request.
SERVICES:
Since 1940, generations have trusted James Free with expert repair of their precious timepieces and jewelry. CLEANING/MAINTENANCE: We invite you to bring in your jewelry/timepiece for a complimentary cleaning. APPRAISALS: Ensure your most treasured pieces have the correct and formal documentation of value.
REPAIRS: We have hundreds of years of experience in jewelry/timepiece repairs. Most repairs are completed in-house.
Blue Sapphire Ombré Necklace with diamonds in 18k gold
