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STYLE MAGAZINE
STYLE MAGAZINE ISSUE 15
WATCH REPORT Meet the new faces of 2015
ALL THAT GLITTERS
Delicious jewels and gems to delight WEIR.IE
MARRY ME
Add some sparkle to your big day
FASHION FIND
Umit Kutluk: designer of the moment
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Welcome...
Pictured above, from top to bottom: White gold (18k) emerald cluster ring, surrounded by 26 diamonds, €34, 370, Weir & Sons. White gold (18kt) diamond and sapphire ring, €12,755, Walskoll. White and black diamond Swirl ring, €1,660, Weir & Sons.
Thank you for picking up this copy of Weir & Sons Style Magazine – the 15th issue of our annual magazine. This last year has been a very busy one for Weir & Sons. Not only did we celebrate our 145th year in business, but we also made a lot of changes in store and welcomed a host of exciting new brands. Our refurbished Dundrum store now boasts impressive Rolex, Tag Heuer, Longines and Omega boutiques. And we have not been sitting still in our flagship store on Grafton Street either, with the introduction of a new Fashion Room on the lower ground floor of the building. This inviting space stocks contemporary brands such as Alex and Ani, Bronzallure, Carat of London, Michael Kors jewellery and Ted Baker watches and we’re delighted to see these vibrant brands tempting a younger generation of customer into the store. We would also like to take this opportunity to thank everyone for bearing with us as we carried out renovation work to the exterior of our Grafton Street shop. We hope that these improvements help set us up for many more decades to come and we can continue to welcome you to our store.
Breguet, the innovator.
Extra-Thin Self-Winding Tourbillon 5377 The complexity of an extra-thin movement is equalled only by the elegance and slenderness of the watch itself. The Extra-Thin Self-Winding Tourbillon 5377, a complex yet delightfully uncluttered creation, is endowed with an 80-hour power reserve thanks to a patented high-energy barrel. It is a true testament to the daring and creative spirit of Abraham-Louis Breguet, inventor of the tourbillon. History is still being written...
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Editor Lizzie Gore-Grimes Art Director Tanya M Ross Style Editor Tanya Grimson Sub-Editor Sharon Miney Project and Advertising Manager Nicola Burns-Kirley Group Editorial Director Laura George Publishing Director Richard Power For Weir & Sons Silver Editor David Andrews Jewellery Editor Neville McDowell Watch Editor Paul Broughan Fashion Editor Chris Andrews Contributing Editor Lisa Freeman Photography Editor Andrew Kilpatrick Weirs & Sons would like to thank all contributors and advertisers for their continued support. While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy of information, Weirs & Sons accept no responsibility for any inaccuracies that may arise. All information and prices are correct at time of going to print. No Liability can be accepted for illustrations, photographs, artwork or advertising material while in transmission or with the publishers or their agents. Weirs Style magazine is published by Weir & Sons in association with IMAGE Publications Ltd. Custom Publishing, Unit 3, Block 3 Harbour Square, Crofton Road, Dun Laoghaire, Co Dublin, Ireland; tel: +353 (0)1 271 9600. Registered number: 56663. Directors: Richard Power, Ann Reihill, Patrick Dillon-Malone, Robert Power, Laura George and Gina Traynor. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part (including photocopying or storing in any medium by electronic means) is prohibited without prior permission of IMAGE Publications Ltd. The reproduction of colours is as accurate as the printing process will allow. Whilst Weir & Sons Style magazine accepts third party advertising, it does not endorse or take any responsibility for products or services outside those of Weir & Sons. Please contact the advertiser directly. All items are subject to availability. Weir & Sons has made every effort to ensure that product information and prices are correct at the time of going to press. Some of these, including price, may change after publication. Weir & Sons, 96-99 Grafton Street, 1-3 Wicklow Street, Dublin 2, Ireland. +353 (0)1 677 9678, www.weir.ie.
Contents 38 13
What’s hot We bring you the low-down on all the latest jewellery and watch news, dates for your diary and more.
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Game of thrones Embrace this season’s obsession with all things ornate and opulent.
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The Midas touch Lose yourself in our decadent jewellery shoot and let your inner magpie loose.
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Line of beauty Architecture continues to inspire jewellery design as languid shapes, clean lines and minimal detail come together.
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Time machines From classic chronographs to contemporary sport watches, 2015 welcomes in some fantastic new faces. Get up to speed with our comprehensive watch report.
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To have and to hold An engagement ring is so much more than a piece of jewellery. It is a promise eternalised and its purchase needs some deliberation. Leslie Ann Horgan guides you through the process.
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Truly gifted Need a little present inspiration? We’ve done the hard work for you.
Level 1, Dundrum Town Centre, Dundrum, Dublin 16, Ireland. +353 (0)1 215 7845; www.weir.ie sales@weirandsons.ie @WeirandSons www.facebook.com/WeirsJewellers
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TAG HEUER CARRERA CALIBRE 1887 By pushing you to the limit and breaking all boundaries, Formula 1 is more than just a physical challenge; it is a test of mental strength. Like TAG Heuer, you have to strive to be the best and never crack under pressure.
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Style setters We meet up with five familiar faces in the world of fashion, food and sport to uncover the secret to their personal style and talk about their most treasured piece of jewellery.
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Fashion house Spend an afternoon with Dublin’s haute couture designer of the moment, Umit Kutluk, and take a tour of his stunning Merrion Square atelier.
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Meet the masters We climb the stairs to explore the hive of activity that is the Weirs & Sons Service Department where traditional methods are king.
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Sumptuous staycations Leave airport hassle behind and indulge in some serious home comfort with our guide to Ireland’s most luxurious retreats.
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Gastro greats Chef Ross Lewis, of Chapter One restaurant, pays homage to the producers and the people who have made food in this country great.
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The catalogue collection A treasure trove of sensational jewellery to tempt and beguile,
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Star piece You know what they say about keeping the best till last...
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NEWS
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Get the low-down on all the latest launches, exciting new looks and more...
WATCH OUT
The Raymond Weil Freelancer is an urbane collection of mechanical watches featuring a robust case with bevelled horns and emblematic screws. This striking range of mechanical self-winding movements includes chronographs, coloured hands and visible movements, €2,895.
FASHIONISTA FIND
Are you ready for a whole new fashion editorial experience? With the launch of Maven46.com, two of Ireland’s most talented fashion creatives – stylist Tanya Grimson and photographer Agata Stoinska have joined forces to bring you the country’s first click-to-buy fashion magazine – a brilliant way to instantly update your wardrobe. Maven46.com.
AMUSE US
Conor Dempsey has done it again. The talented chef, formerly of Dax, has opened Amuse and is once again impressing diners with superb food, exquisitely presented. The mood of the menu is refined French with an Oriental twist. Think: tartare of aged beef, pickled enoki mushrooms, poached organic egg, dashi broth and you get the etherealumami drift. Amuse, Dawson Street, Dublin 2, 01 639 4889, amuse.ie.
STACKS OF STYLE
Pile on the positivity with a stylish stack of Alex & Ani bangles, now available in Weir & Sons’ new Fashion Room in the Grafton Street store. Each bangle is adorned with powerful symbols to enlighten and uplift and is made to be expandable – ensuring the perfect fit for every wrist. This completely original design allows everyone to have a piece of jewellery which is truly customised. Bangles from €26.
ELEGANT WORDS
The Peerless 125 collection is the culmination of the Cross brand’s rich history of innovation and accomplishment. Designed to celebrate Cross’s heritage, it’s a pen that exudes class and elegance. The perfect gift. Cross Peerless ballpoint, €200.
YOGA OILS Irish made Yogandha oils not only work to nourish, hydrate and moisturise the skin; they also work in a holistic way, taking care of mind and body. The benefits of using essential oils are limitless, both emotionally and physically – they will relax, revive or balance you while aiding various skin conditions and soothing muscles. They also smell divine! Set of three body oils, €74.95, yogandha.com.
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NEWS
Old meets new as vintage detailing and shapes continue to inspire modern designs.
PORCELAIN PERFECTION
Iconic Spanish porcelain brand Lladro has recently launched The Tango Noir, following the global success of their Tango series. Drawing on the influence of tango during its golden years of the 1930s, Lladro chooses tones of black, white and grey as a reflection of the purity and passion of the dance, €1,200. Sensual and sensational.
DREAMING OF DIAMANTISSIMA Gucci’s stunning Diamantissima collection is based on the trio of rings cut in the Gucci original trademark criss cross pattern. The trademark pattern served as the precursor to the GG emblem has been resurrected from the 1950s Gucci archives and translated into modern masterpieces of dark brown diamonds set on a tan backdrop, from €550.
PEARLS OF WISDOM
Mikimoto, the purveyor of the finest quality cultured pearls, excels once more with this beautiful pearl bracelet and necklace set. The pearls are A1 quality and come in a fitted box with 7mm A quality studs and are available with either white or yellow gold clasps, €4,935.
GRECIAN 2015 Discover the power of luminosity, with the new range of LVCEA watches, just unveiled by Bvlgari. Taking inspiration from ancient timekeeping methods and sundials, Bvlgari has created a contemporary translation of Ancient Greek history in the LVCEA range that encapsulates the essence and luxury of the brand to exquisite effect. Featuring a collection of twelve different styles from the classic steel to luxurious pink gold inset with pave diamonds.
COCKTAIL HOUR
A favourite among celebrities such as Amanda Byram and Laura Whitmore, Carat is the latest fashion jewellery brand to arrive at Weir & Sons. With an extensive range of elegant styles to choose from, their cocktail rings make a striking choice to elevate any evening wear. White gold (9kt) Trilogy petite ring, €430.
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NEWS
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The new timekeeping faces to watch out for this year are all about to-die-for details and meticulous inner workings. Turn to our striking watch report on page 30 for further horological inspiration.
DON’T MISS
One of the horological highlights of 2015 will undoubtedly be The Watch Art Patek Philippe Grand Exhibition coming to London’s Saatchi Gallery from May 27 to June 7. The exhibition will celebrate Patek Philippe’s tradition of highprecision watch manufacturing. Visitors will have the opportunity to discover the world of the last private family-owned Geneva watch company immersing you into the world of Patek Philippe via numerous rooms throughout the entire gallery, with access to over 400 exceptional pieces. The exhibition is open to the public and free of charge. Watch aficionados from all over the world will be Patek Philippe Annual Calendar flocking to it. Visit patek.com for Chronograph, €45,550. more information.
RETRO RANGER
As new brand TUDOR arrives at Weirs, we’re getting ready to battle the elements with the Heritage Ranger. Inspired by a historic model, first produced in the late 1960s, this new watch has been reinvented to meet the demands of the modern world. Let the Ranger on your wrist set you apart, €2,370.
THE WEIR FASHION ROOM
Welcome to Weir & Sons’ slick new Fashion Room, located on the lower ground floor of the Grafton Street branch. Here you’ll find fashion watches from popular brands such as Michael Kors and Ted Baker, while new jewellery additions include handcrafted, eco-conscious brand Alex and Ani and Mi Moneda’s fabulous interchangeable pieces – perfect for fashionistas who like to update their style with each new outfit. Weir.ie.
HAND-WOUND POWER Panerai, creators of the first watch for the commandos of the Italian Navy, present the new PAN563 – a hand-wound model that boasts a power reserve of eight days, plus interchangeable hand-crafted leather strap, €6,100.
KORS BLIMEY
Michael Kors is renowned for his rose gold watches. Redefining a modern classic, the rose gold embodies both premium and feminine qualities, while the bezel adorned with light peach baguette crystals adds an opulent finishing touch. For the most coveted watch of the season, opt for this piece of contemporary luxury, €230.
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Indulge your inner medieval princess and drape yourself in ornate and opulent statement pieces.
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PHOTOGRAPHY: GREG DORNEY STYLING: TANYA GRIMSON
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1. Spiga ring, €3,350, Bulgari 2. Fifth Season Snake bracelet, €515, Roberto Coin 3. Gold and diamond bangle, €4,480, Carrera Y Carrera 4. Gold and turquoise brooch €2,235, Weir Collection 5. Versace bracelet, €3,391, Weir Vintage Collection 6. Half moon earrings, €1,245, Weir Collection 7. Bulgari Parentesi necklace, €23,525, Bulgari 8. Amethyst and diamond bracelet, €1,090, Weir Collection 9. Drop earrings, €3,402, Weir Collection 10. Serpenti watch, €23,525, Bulgari 11. Diamond and yellow gold chainlink necklace, €5,740, Weir Collection 12. Elephant head ring, €2,097, Carrera Y Carrera
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The
Midas Touch It's time to go for gold and let your inner magpie loose. PHOTOGRAPHY: TREVOR HART STYLING: TANYA GRIMSON
GOLDEN HOUR Parentesi ring, €925, Bulgari. Large Parentesi ring, €1,095, Bulgari. Classic Collection rope necklace, €6,785, Fope. Ruby and diamond link bracelet, €4,000, Weir Collection. Gold Monologo ring, €1,395, Bulgari.
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Concentrica Astrale bangle, €3615, Bulgari. Gold stud earrings, €250, Weir Collection. Diamond set necklace, €2,056, Weir Collection. Diamond ring, €2,150, Weir Collection.
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RETRO NOUVEAU Ornate oval locket, €1,165, Weir Collection. Romanesque cameo brooch, €325, Weir Collection. Diamond cluster earrings, €4,460, Weir Collection. Vintage-style sapphire brooch, €245, Weir Collection. Diamond and sapphire link bracelet, €6,019, Weir Collection. Pearl drop earrings, €1,458, Weir Collection. Vintage Vanity Mirror, €320, Weir Vintage Collection. Brush (part of three-piece set), €350, Weir Vintage Collection.
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COLOUR ME BEAUTIFUL Multi sapphire Flammé ring, €5,340, Waskoll. Blue sapphire and diamond earrings, €3,650, Weir Collection. Amethyst drop necklace, €1,890, Weir Collection. Multi coloured bracelet, €4,815, Weir Collection. Amethyst Horsebit cocktail ring, €4,510, Gucci. Jadeite and diamond pendant, €5,290, Weir Collection. Yellow sapphire drop earrings, €2,660, Weir Collection.
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DEEP SEA STYLING Pearls in Motion necklace, €8,260, Mikimoto. Classic pearl and diamond ring, €3,255, Weir Collection. Platinum pearl and diamond brooch, €12,398.99, Mikimoto. Tahitian pearl and diamond ring, €3,160, Mikimoto. Sapphire and pearl pendant, €3,780, Weir Collection. Three-strand pearl and diamond bracelet, €9,945, Mikimoto.
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GARDEN PARTY Diamond and sapphire earrings, €7,370, Weir Collection. Daisy Marguerite pendant, €7,000, Georg Jensen. Floral diamond ring, €57,600, Weir Collection. Happy Diamonds pendant, €13,025, Chopard. Diamond floral ring, €925, Weir Collection. Victoria Snowdrop watch, €36,000, Backes & Strauss. Emerald and diamond ring, €5,200, Weir Collection. Sapphire and diamond floral earrings, €1,700, Weir Collection.
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DIAMONDS ARE FOREVER Diamond line necklace, €67,197, Weir Collection. Diamond interlocking bangle, €11,680, Weir Collection. Diamond fan brooch, €9,968, Weir Collection. Diamond earrings, €6,822, Weir Collection. Diamond Marquise ring, €208,950, Weir Collection.
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SHE'S IN FASHION Bisous turquoise ring, €145, Missoma. Maiya triple drop earrings, €260, Missoma. Little Treasure charm bracelets, €83, Missoma. Smokey quartz Serpent ring, €278, Missoma. Classic Winchester watch, €129, Daniel Wellington. Mi Moneda Interchangable pendant and chain: Soprano chain necklace, €115, Crystal Deluxe coin holder, €135, Nautilus disc, €25.
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LINE OF BEAUTY Architecture continues to inspire jewellery design as languid shapes, clean lines and minimal detail come together to create stunning pieces for the modern woman. PHOTOGRAPHY: GREG DORNEY STYLING: TANYA GRIMSON
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1. White gold Love pendant, €3,173, Chopard 2. Happy Diamonds Sun ring, €1,635, Chopard 3. Silver bangle, €166, Weir Collection 4. Alliance necklace, €575, Georg Jenson 5. B.ZERO1 ring, €1,600, Bulgari 6. Earrings, €156, Weir Collection 7. Tiffany earrings, €317, Weir Vintage Collection 8. Roman bangle, €615, Weir Collection 9. Diamantissima pendant, €2,195, Gucci 10. Sterling silver bangle, €978, Georg Jenson
M I K I M OTO.CO M
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TIME MACHINES There has never been a better time to invest in a statement watch. PHOTOGRAPHY: TREVOR HART STYLING: TANYA GRIMSON
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CHRONOGRAPH Carrera Calibre 1887, €5,755, Tag Heuer. Ceramic Hyperchrome XXL Automatic, €3,995, Rado. Cosmograph Daytona, €14,100, Rolex. Omega Speedmaster Moonwatch, €4,190, Omega. Mille Miglia, €5,315, Chopard.
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POCKET WATCH Vintage Platinum Pocket Watch, €4,500, Vintage Weir Collection. Steel Pocket Watch, €210, Glycine. Gold Plated Pocket Watch, €210, Glycine. Hunter Pocket Watch, €185, Glycine. Hunter Floral Pocket Watch, €165, Glycine. Leather jewellery box, €2,050, The Bridge.
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COLOURED FACES Skylar Watch, €180, Michael Kors. Gradient Green Watch, €249, Ted Baker. Blue Chronograph Watch, €239, Kenneth Cole. The Slim Bracelet Watch, €220, Marc by Marc Jacobs. Lexington Watch, €255, Michael Kors.
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CLASSIC STYLE Evo, €545, Mondaine. Toccata, €795, Raymond Weil. Classique 5177, €20,100, Breguet. Classic York, €159, Daniel Wellington. Calatrava, €22,300, Patek Phillipe. Transocean, €4,700, Breitling.
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SPORT STARS Solar Divers 200m, €295, Seiko. Marine Star, €210, Bulova. Red Arrows Skyhawk, €495, Citizen. Speedmaster Spacemaster z-33, €4,460, Omega. G-Shock, €110, Casio.
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HARDWEAR Dive Master, €760, Victorinox. Luminor Submersible, €9,600, Panerai. Avenger Seawolf, €6,540, Breitling. Grand Carrera, €6,540, Tag Heuer.
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LEATHER Berkeley, €7,300, Backes & Strauss. Chronograph 5170J, €71,100, Patek Philippe. Breguet 5207, €20,300, Breguet. Luminor Marina, €6,000, Panerai. Hampton, €2,040, Baume Mercier. Classima, €2,275, Baume Mercier.
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To Have & to Hold An engagement ring is so much more than a piece of jewellery. It is a promise eternalised and its purchase needs some careful deliberation. We guide you through the process. WORDS: LESLIE ANN HORGAN
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OPPOSITE PAGE, IMAGE: GETTY
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t’s a rather unusual pairing but when it comes to cut because when you move, your hand the diamond selecting the perfect engagement ring, it seems comes alive. It is usually set as a solitaire or with that selfies are a girl’s best friend. shoulder diamonds so that you don’t see any metal “Taking photographs as you try on rings is a on the hand.” great advantage,” says Weir & Sons diamond expert Many of the rings at Weir & Sons have been specially Bob Quinn. “If a woman leaves with a photograph or created for the store. Bob stresses the fact that they are two, the admiration for the ring continues at home. I’ve designed to complement a wedding band, meaning often had situations where a client who went home they fit snugly together with no uncomfortable gap – with a photograph on a Saturday afternoon would something that can be problematic with vintage rings. be outside waiting for the store to open on Monday As for vintage traditions, Bob says that the notion of morning so that they can get their ring.” a man spending one month’s salary on Working at Weir & Sons since 1974, "The tradition of a man a ring still largely holds true today. At Bob is clearly passionate about his Weir & Sons, a top-end diamond set on spending one month’s a platinum ring costs from €1,200 and diamonds. In his 40 years at the store, salary on a ring still the trade has changed greatly – and not in yellow gold starts at €700. just with the advent of the mobile phone. largely holds true today." Many people don’t realise, however, “In years gone by, some people were that an engagement ring is not an very serious and austere about diamond selling,” says instant purchase. Bob. “The first thing I do when I meet a client is have “It’s generally not a case of the client arriving and a chat and help them relax. I let them know they are walking out with the ring on the same day,” says Bob. not facing a firing squad – the occasion is one of joy.” “The first visit is usually about an hour. On the second Weir & Sons has private viewing rooms where visit you might leave a deposit. It can take a week or couples, and the odd brave gentleman, can enjoy a two to make a decision and have alterations done one-on-one consultation. The comfortable rooms before you can leave with the ring.” have no doors so that you don’t feel “hemmed Despite his vast experience, Bob says he can in”, as Bob delicately phrases it. never predict what ring a couple will choose. The store’s vast array of rings can be “It’s always a fresh challenge, even in my 41st somewhat dizzying and so, once he has year, because every client is different. Often a feel for a client’s taste, Bob shows ladies are surprised themselves by the ring them a tailored selection. that they end up with.” “The main metal that we use here Gentlemanly and professional to a fault, is platinum,” he says enthusiastically. Bob is too discreet to go into detail about his “It’s remarkably hard-wearing and clients. He does admit, however, that he has alterations can be made on the band had some memorable experiences – such as the without leaving any mark. It offers many lady who got a diamond ring stuck on her hand advantages over other metals.” and had to have it cut off. “She said: ‘This ring When it comes to the diamond itself, Bob likes me and I seem to be attached to it so has a wealth of knowledge to carefully I’ll take it,’” he laughs. explain all aspects of diamonds, such as Bob records each of his clients in a green cut and clarity, to the client. leather-bound notebook, which has become “The most popular choice is the round a database not just of sales but of the friends
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COLOUR
The most important aspect of a ring, colour refers not to a stone’s hue but to the level of sparkle it produces. The test of a diamond is seeing it in natural light, where it should outshine the setting. CUT
Cut is also of critical importance. A well-cut diamond is centered, in proportion and generates brightness and life from within the stone. If it’s badly cut, the light will escape out the sides.
SHAPE
There are a selection of diamond shapes, from the rounded cushion, oval and pear cuts, to the square princess cut, and softer emerald and radiant cuts. Round brilliant is the most popular because the circular shape tends to give the most lively sparkle on the hand. CLARITY
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This refers to the natural presence of carbon, which can create imperfections within the stone. While few diamonds are flawless, high-clarity stones look perfect to the eye.
he has made through the decades. Many ring. A lot of clients will say: “Nobody customers return to him to have their rings knows about this yet except you.”’ reset and revalued, and for Modestly, Bob says birthday and anniversary Children of couples Bob that is not him that’s to presents. In recent years, sold rings to decades ago thank for so many happy the children of couples he matches but rather the are now coming to see Weir & Sons customer sold rings to are coming him for their own. to see him for their own service. “It’s all about the engagements. experience of sitting down “It’s a wonderful, joyous feeling to be and enjoying the moment,” he says. “Your there when a couple has decided on their heart will tell you the ring you want.”
CARAT
The carat value is a measure of a diamond’s weight. Stones with larger carats tend to be bigger and therefore more expensive. However, cut and clarity can make one stone more valuable than another of equal carat value. CERTIFICATION All of Weir & Sons' diamonds over .28 carats are independently certified. Each ring comes with a certificate detailing the quality of the stone..
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Truly Gifted With a vast array of porcelain, leather goods, crystal and stunning silver to choose from at Weir & Sons, the art of giving has never been easier. PHOTOGRAPHY: GREG DORNEY STYLING: TANYA GRIMSON
For something special
If you are looking for a unique gift for a wedding or milestone birthday, these beautiful antique serving spoons are undoubtedly something to treasure forever. Antique silver serving spoons, â‚Ź435, Weir Vintage Collection.
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For the bride & groom
For your colleague
With a pen department that would make Oscar Wilde jealous, the Weir & Sons pen department offers an extensive range of fountain pens and ball points. The perfect professional gift. Fountain pen, €420, Mont Blanc.
For him
A leather cross-body satchel makes a dapper alternative to a laptop bag. This timelessly classic leather version strikes the perfect balance between practicality and style, €420, The Bridge.
A sterling silver frame for the happy couple to fill with a photo of them on their big day makes a lovely wedding gift. And to make it even more special, why not enquire about engraving the frame with their names and wedding date. The Weir & Sons collection of sterling silver frames is available in a range of sizes starting from small €115, medium, €185, and large, €235.
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For little ones
If you’re looking for something sweet to celebrate a recently arrived bundle of joy, Weir & Sons has a multitude of gorgeous gift ideas. From antique rattles to silver frames and pretty porcelain sculptures, it’s easy to treat the little people in your life. This beautiful musical jewellery box will be sure to charm children and adults alike. Music box, €120.
For her
For the lady who enjoys the finer things in life, this duck wine carafe makes the perfect dinner party talking point. Irish silver mounted wine carafe jug (T.W. hallmark) by Weir and Sons, €1,585.
For mum
She has been there for you every day of your life. Now it’s time to return the favour and show your mum how special she is. What could be more perfect than this beautifully crafted jewellery box. Jewellery box, €295.
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STYLE SETTERS We meet up with five familiar faces in the world of fashion, food and sport to uncover the secret to their personal style and talk about their most treasured piece of jewellery. WORDS: AOIFE CARRIGY PORTRAITS: ANTHONY WOODS
PETER O'BRIEN “Style to me means not looking like everyone else,” says Peter O’Brien – one of Ireland’s most highly respected fashion and costume designers. “It also means not looking too fashionable.” The Irish designer interestingly describes himself as having “a love/hate relationship with fashion”. He most admires women such as Tilda Swinton, who dare to be different and to resist our era’s “regressive” pressure to be ‘hot’ and ‘glamorous’ (“two of the most terrifying words in the English language”). Having worked in Paris for the likes of Christian Dior, Chloé and Rochas, O’Brien has built his reputation on the classic lines and strong tailoring seen in his latest capsule collection for Arnotts. “I like to think I’m a woman’s friend when I design clothes,” he explains, and he enjoys producing versatile pieces which women can make their own – indeed his latest collection includes accessories such as hats and silk scarves. Peter’s own personal style, conversely, is all about invisibility. “I’ve worn a uniform that hasn’t changed in 25 years: Smedley polo shirts and V-necks, white shirts, navy or black suits,
Shannon shoes by Church. Partly it’s a way of being anonymous, but I also think people look fabulous in uniforms.” Still Peter is not afraid to accessorise for the right occasion. “Curiously, for a man, I’m obsessed with jewellery,” he says. “What I really adore is 18th century jewels… I prefer the irregularity of old mine-cut stones. They’re more limpid, more profound.” While he is happy to simply windowshop for these precious jewels (“old stones are like very beautiful women or very handsome men – they’re really lovely to look at but you don’t want one at home; they’re far more trouble than they’re worth”), he did invest in a tiny Victorian aquamarine paste heart pin “about 700 years ago” which he has treasured ever since. “I liked that it looked old and like something Queen Victoria might have given her lady in waiting.” He has worn it to the most important events in his life, including opening nights of plays in The Gate or The Abbey for which he has designed costumes. “It’s quite bashed up and missing a stone but I love it. It’s like a lucky talisman.” peterobriendesign.com
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HELEN McALINDEN She may have grown up in Northern Ireland, but Irish fashion designer Helen McAlinden has an enduring connection with Dublin. Today, the flagship store for Helen’s eponymous design label is located just minutes from Weir & Sons on Grafton Street, in the heart of what she describes as the “creative quarter” around South William Street. Her current season’s line – designed with “independent thinking” women in mind – was showcased just down the street in the new home of the Irish Georgian Society. “We love the area. It is to Dublin what the Village is to New York. There’s a great vibe around here and lots of interesting new things happening,” Helen says, citing Dylan Bradshaw, Cos and Costume as stylish neighbours, “not to mention all the terrific restaurants”. But the designer’s connection to the area reaches back to the 1950s. In the years before she married, Helen’s Dublin-born mother worked at dressmaker Marjorie Boland’s Grafton Street shop. (“There were very many stylish Irish women around back then too!”) It was during this time that a certain Mr McAlinden made a very special purchase in Weirs of Grafton Street: the large-carat diamond ring “with a great cut and clarity” that her mother would continue to wear all through Helen’s childhood, and which Helen has treasured since her mother’s recent passing. “Obviously there’s an emotional attachment, but I also love the look of it.” Helen likes to offset her personal style (“minimalist with a twist – I like clean, modern shapes and silhouettes”) with interesting jewellery such as chunky silver statement pieces, and her mother’s ring gets a lot of wear. “It’s one of my favourite pieces. It looks like it might have been bought yesterday.” Style to Helen is less about fashion but more about putting our own individual stamp on how we live and how we dress. And she believes that jewellery – and in particular “classic, enduring, good-quality jewellery” – plays an integral role. “It’s about being able to lift pieces from different vintages. Stylish women know what they want and they buy into their own individual style.” helenmcalinden.ie
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SONYA LENNON Stylist Sonya Lennon is one of the most familiar faces in Irish fashion, having co-hosted RTE’s Off the Rails with Brendan Courtney for four fun years before branching out with their own label, Lennon Courtney. If one start-up company wasn’t enough to keep them busy, the savvy pair also launched their own fashion app. FrockAdvisor aims “to connect shoppers with discovery points to find their own curation”. “For me, style is about a way of being that impacts on every piece of your life.” Indeed, the signature style of the Lennon Courtney collection grew out of Sonya’s personal style, which she describes as “a combination of being understated but also confident and slightly bold as well. I like to think that quiet isn’t necessarily safe, that you can be gentle but subversive.”
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Besides accessorising specific looks with costume jewellery or the likes of her vintage Chanel choker, Sonya owns several key pieces of jewellery which she wears everyday without fail. One of these she describes as her “pregnant-with-twins ring”, a 1940s take on art deco featuring a mix of emerald-cut and brilliant-cut diamonds, which was a gift from her partner Dave ten years ago. “I saw it and thought it was absolutely beautiful and it was put on my finger. I loved it because it’s so graphic. And I like corners more than circles.” The other piece you won’t see Sonya without is the Melissa Curry Success necklace she has worn since she launched the first Irish office of Dress for Success. This worldwide not-for-profit initiative helps women in need gain and retain employment, supporting them with an offer of suiting for interviews and with continued training to help them progress their careers. Bravo.
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DERVAL O’ROURKE Style has always been important to threetime Olympian sprint-hurdles athlete Derval O’Rourke both on and off the track. “For me it was about feeling good in myself. Before I’d go to a major championship I’d check that my kit fitted really well and if necessary I would go to a dressmaker for alterations.” Since she retired from athletics last May, life has shown little sign of slowing down. “I have actually been crazy busy, signing off on my new healthy eating cookbook, Food for the Fast Lane, and filming Ireland’s Fittest Family for RTE, which was a bundle of fun. I haven’t had a lot of time to be thinking about the retirement!” So what does Derval do in her downtime? “I love to shop!” she enthuses, whether it’s Stateside (she recently escaped to New York for a shopping break with her sister), London (“unbelievably stylish”), Scandinavia (“those girls dress really well”) or Ireland. “I'm a fan of the Kildare Village Outlet Centre, or when I’m in Dublin I’ll check out Topshop or browse in Brown Thomas for brands like Bastyan or Penguin.” Derval’s personal style is “comfortable with a dash of elegance”, with an emphasis on simplicity, colour and quality of fabric. She has a few pieces of precious jewellery, including a ring from her mother which incorporates gold, silver and bronze to reflect her athletic achievements, and a simple necklace that her father chose for her as a gift for her wedding day. Particularly special is her unique wedding band. “It’s not a traditional wedding ring at all. My grandmother-in-law gave me two diamonds when we got engaged. She had bought them when her grandchildren were born back in the early ’80s, with the idea that they would be used when they got married.” Derval brought them to a local goldsmith in her hometown of Cork, who crafted them into a double-banded ring, which she has rarely removed since her wedding day. “I get into trouble because I forget to take off my rings when I go weightlifting. They’re getting a bit bashed, but that’s just living isn’t it?!”
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NICK MUNIER A balance between elegant restraint and bursts of colour has defined restaurateur Nick Munier’s public life and personal style. Nick first appeared on our prime-time screens as maître d’ on ITV’s Hell’s Kitchen, where he played the calm foil to Marco Pierre White’s ‘expressive’ personality. More recently he has played a similar role alongside Dylan McGrath as co-host of RTE’s MasterChef series. Off-screen, Nick is kept busy with running one of the stalwarts of the Dublin dining scene, his city-centre restaurant Pichet. He also finds time to produce regular exhibitions of his original artwork, which is as upbeat and colourful as his buzzy restaurant. Nick’s personal style is heavily informed by his front-of-house role. “It’s about wearing clothes that you feel comfortable in and which won’t be too flashy for customers.” Having spent many years in formal suits, Nick’s offduty look leans more towards bomber jackets and jeans with bright t-shirts or polo shirts from Lacoste on Wicklow Street. “I remember falling in love with the crocodile as a child,” Nick reminisces. “I like that their new range has a younger element to it: it’s quite hip while still being sporty.” That sportiness carries through into Nick’s obsession with trainers. “I love the old Stan Smith 1980s-style sneakers. I like to have at least two or three unopened boxes of brandnew, white sneakers in my wardrobe.” He still harbours a love for high fashion, however, born of his admiration for his ultimate style icon, Yves Saint Laurent. “I love the way he would incorporate various artists’ work into his designs.” Indeed it was Yves Saint Laurent who inspired the purchase of Nick’s most precious possession, his silver Cartier Tank Française watch with its signature blue gemstone. He bought it from Weir & Sons, paying for it over two years in weekly instalments collected from his loose-change jar. “I think it’s more precious when you have to work towards something – you take more pride in it. I love it. It’s simple and elegant and it will never go out of fashion. It still looks modern today.”
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PRECISION KUTLUK For Dublin-based, Turkish haute couture designer Umit Kutluk, fashion is ephemeral but a precise and timeless cut is key... WORDS: SHARON MINEY PHOTOGRAPHY: NATHALIE MARQUEZ COURTNEY
U
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mit Kutluk’s alluring Merrion Square atelier is all soaring ceilings, polished parquet floors and serene cream and green hues – a manmade version of the verdant park it overlooks. The day we arrive though, it’s all go. Umit is selecting garments for a photo shoot to launch his spring/summer 2015 collection (pretty pastels, minty-fresh tones, crisp crepes and wonderfully tactile textures) and there is a sense of bustle in the usually hushed, calm space. As Umit makes his final edit from among the shimmering racks, in an adjoining room nimble-fingered seamstresses deftly embellish his fabulously feminine creations.
Umit was born and raised in Istanbul, where his family were in the fashion and textile business. His mother was a skilled seamstress. “I grew up surrounded by fabrics, textures and colours,” he recalls with a spreading smile. He initially trained as a fabric engineer in Istanbul before coming to Ireland in 2007 to study fashion design at Dublin’s Grafton Academy. Now he’s firmly established as Irish fashion’s young Turk (both literally and figuratively; he’s only in his early 30s), regularly dressing the country’s most glamorous glitterati – Kathryn Thomas is perpetually spotted in his gowns.
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“Umit Kutluk’s alluring Merrion Square atelier is all soaring ceilings, polished parquet floors and serene hues.”
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At the moment he lives in the Wicklow countryside. “I love it because it is fresh, green and quiet – the polar opposite of busy Istanbul.” And he loves that when he goes to work, his studio is located in the genteel heart of Georgian Dublin. “Even though it is in the city centre, it is calm and peaceful. The buildings have a relaxed grandeur reminiscent of bygone days.” He has been running his burgeoning design empire from here for just over a year now, creating readyto-wear and couture collections as well as beautiful bespoke bridalwear. “For me it was a dream come true to open my showroom and atelier here,” he says. “The peace and tranquillity of the square carries through to my studio environment. It’s the perfect place to create and design. My clients love it too as it is a unique shopping experience and a welcome option for those who find High Street stores too hectic. This environment, with its decorative plasterwork and soothing hues, is also a constant inspiration for my bridal work.” Umit has adjusted seamlessly to Irish life – and to the vagaries of dressing Irish women. What are the main differences he notices here? “Irish people are very conscious about covering parts of the body they don’t like, such as arms, small breasts, big hips…” he muses. “Turkish women have a freer attitude and are less self-conscious.” That said, he happily works with his Irish clients to find the perfect cut or drape to flatter their better features – and minimise those they don’t like. “It makes them feel better – and good clothes are all about that feeling.” “Umit believes the detail According to Umit, the should be in the material mark of elegance in a woman is something incredibly simple: rather than the cut – he’s a “For me it’s the fit of the dress big fan of embellishment.” that marks the elegant and well-dressed woman.” For wedding dresses he favours “very simple, sophisticated, classic gowns with a clean silhouette – Irish women no longer want the ‘princess dress’.” Umit is an advocate of modern over traditional styles, while retaining the romance. He believes the detail should be more in the material than in the cut – although he clearly has a fondness for
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jewelling and embellishment. Movement and sparkle hold an eternal allure for him. “I like embellishment and beading because they are fun to work with, and I also like the way they lend the material a third dimension and add texture and oodles of glamorous femininity. “I love being in a position to create clothes,” he reflects. “My favourite aspect of my job is finding a new material and discovering how to cut and fit it the right way. Creating bespoke pieces – especially wedding gowns – is always an exciting process. At the moment I am working on a number of wedding dresses. I do this in collaboration with the brides, combining their individual ideas and tastes with my tailoring expertise to culminate in the perfect dress. Crafting these special gowns gives me the opportunity to use precious embellishments, skilled artisans and the finest haute couture techniques. Without couture, many of the wonderful and precious skills in detailing and embellishing would be lost.” When it comes to choosing jewellery to complete a look, Umit advises keeping accessories to a minimum but investing in an understated key piece to complement the cut without competing with it. This is doubly true for brides. “A diamond ring is for me the one piece of jewellery all women should have,” he says, before adding, “I like a square cut.” He is also partial to pearls, he admits. “They’re eternally elegant and classy – and will always work to enhance rather than distract from an outfit.” Ultimately, in everything, it’s all about the craft. “A perfect fitting is crucial for a dress. Our service makes the garment for the individual so it will be unique. If you go to a shop, you have options to choose from – but if you come to us, we take your preferences as a starting point and then give you the options, which are specially created for you… unlimited.” Umit Kutluk’s spring/summer collection will launch in February 2015. For more information, visit umitkutluk.ie
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Meisterstück Heritage Perpetual Calendar and Hugh Jackman Crafted for New Heights Featuring one of the most delicate complications in fine watchmaking, the Montblanc Meisterstück Heritage Perpetual Calendar will require no adjustments until the year 2100, so long as its self-winding Calibre MB 29.15 is kept sufficiently wound. Housed in a 39 mm 18K red gold case, this refined timepiece truly promises to be a lifetime companion. Visit and shop at Montblanc.com
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Meet the Masters
I---URLRU---I A few storeys above the busy bustle of Grafton Street lie the quiet workshops of the Weir & Sons Service Department, where traditional methods are still king. WORDS AND PHOTOGRAPHY: NATHALIE MARQUEZ COURTNEY
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ass the glistening jewels and perfectly polished collections for the workshop,” he recalls. “I was the watches of the Weir & Sons ground floor messenger boy, going around the city picking up showrooms, climb some narrow stairs and parts.” Over the years, Brian used to sit and watch you encounter a hive of quiet activity. The the repairmen at work, and his interest grew. So when faint hum of buskers comes through an open window, an apprentice spot opened up, he jumped at it. “Back along with streaks of milky morning then you served a seven-year sun. But other than that, all is calm “For the modern watches, apprenticeship, all practical – just in the Weir Service Department. there are new tools, but the watch and learn.” Skilled craftsmen go about their day In the decades that have followed, much the same as they did decades basic tools haven't changed little has changed. “For the modern much over the decades.” ago – carefully, methodically, watches, there are new tools, but the and expertly repairing precious basic tools are much the same,” says timepieces, family heirlooms, treasured bracelets and Brian, casting his eye over the screwdrivers, eye glasses, even polishing prized silver dining sets. hand removers and countless other implements that Looking out over Grafton Street is Brian O’Connell line the shelves of the workshop. “Some fellas would and his watch repair team, John Curran and Ken Kinlan. have had theirs for over 50 years. And you always know Collectively, they have over 85 years of experience in the your own tools.” care and repair of watches. When Brian started in the Behind the beautiful bells and whistles, the principles 1970s, traffic still whizzed up and down Grafton Street. of most mechanical watches are the same now as they “I started off here just doing the deliveries and were in the 50s and 60s. The men have all noted a
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marked return to simpler designs and mechanical timepieces. “Quartz was all the rage for years, but it’s turned a corner and there’s more demand for mechanical watches now, which is great to see,” says Ken. And what watch does a watchmaker wear? For Brian, it’s a Rolex (a brand for which Weir & Sons are the exclusive Dublin outlet). “I got it for my 40th birthday, as a present from my family,” he says fondly. “I never take it off; it goes out to the garden, swimming. It looks good, but it gets hammered.” Wander out of the watch repair room, and a warren of stairs and corridors leads you to the jewellery workshop where Paul Hartigan has been working for more than 41 years, also using traditional tools. Neat envelopes are carefully opened, the silver and gold contents spilling out onto his worktop to be expertly inspected and lovingly repaired. A few doors over, Joseph Koukola is in the polishing room, where some of the country’s most significant sports trophies have been given their winning shine.
The finest horse races, including the Cheltenham Gold Cup, have had their silverware polished here and the Heineken Cup, Six Nations trophy and many more have all passed through his door, not to mention countless Rolex watches, fine cutlery collections, and plenty of gold and silver. As in the other rooms in the service department, the methods he uses are simple, methodical and traditional. Back at the watch repair room, lunch hour is approaching, and with it the din of Grafton Street increases. “We’ve seen a lot of changes here over the years,” notes Brian. “Right from when we started, with traffic on the streets, to seeing all the characters in the area, like the Dice Man – we were the first to see him!” The bustle on the streets below reminds you that working in the heart of the city comes with the odd drawback. “You certainly know the music, if that’s what you’d call some of it,” Ken says with a mischievous grin. “Some days you’re very glad of the rain.” And with that, the men return to their work.
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Sumptuous Staycation Leave airport hassle behind and indulge in some unadulterated home comfort with our guide to Ireland’s finest escapes.
DS4SD WORDS: LIZZIE GORE-GRIMES
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LAP OF LUXURY
BALLYFIN HOUSE, CO LAOIS There is simply nowhere else in Ireland like Ballyfin. Once the ancestral seat of the Crosbies, the Wellesley-Poles and the Cootes, Ballyfin has long been admired as one of the most lavish late Georgian houses in Ireland. The Cootes were a famously extravagant family and Ballyfin was their showpiece – a place to entertain and impress. Almost a century has passed since the last member of the Coote family resided here but there can be little doubt that they would approve of the estate’s magnificent return to glory. The current owners, the Krehbiels, bought the house in 2002 from the Patrician Brothers, who ran the Ballyfin boarding school on the grounds for over 80 years. The Krehbiels spent eight years, and clearly an untold amount of money, restoring the estate. From the Morel and Seddon designed parquet floor (one of the finest examples in existence) to the exquisite Richard Turner conservatory and the 1000-year-old Roman
mosaic floor in the entrance hall, every nook and cranny in Ballyfin is remarkable. As the hotel boasts only 15 bedrooms, each individually and lavishly decorated, a stay at Ballyfin feels like a sojourn at an exclusive Gosford Park shooting party. But it’s not all about the opulent interiors at Ballyfin – the grounds are pretty impressive too. The estate includes 600 acres of beautiful wooded parkland which you’re free to explore by golf buggy or bike (there’s a tandem too if you’re up for it), a private lake where you can take a boat out, tennis courts, a picnic house, archery, and magical walled gardens to moon about in. Not forgetting the impressive indoor pool and stateof-the-art gym. But it’s best to leave your caloriecounting at home when you visit Ballyfin as the food here is every bit as magnificent as the setting, with the majority of the produce grown on site. Ballyfin House, Ballyfin, Co Laois. 057 875 5866; ballyfin.com. Double rooms from €800 (includes full board).
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THE MERRION HOTEL, DUBLIN When it comes to city style and understated luxury, The Merrion Hotel operates in a league of its own. Created from four magnificently restored Georgian townhouses, the hotel exudes an old-world opulence and charm that you won’t find elsewhere. Although you’re in the heart of the city, most of the hotel’s 142 bedrooms and suites overlook period landscaped gardens to the rear, so busy street sounds are kept at bay. Whether you’re a Dublin native or a visitor, collapsing in front of one of the roaring fires in the drawing room, after a few hours spent shopping in town, is one of life’s little luxuries. The Art Afternoon Tea is to die for – inspired by the hotel’s remarkable Irish art collection – but something cheeky from the cocktail menu will also be guaranteed to recharge retail-weary limbs. After that you can choose from supper in The Cellar Bar (in the building’s 18th Century wine vaults, or go all out and dine in Restaurant Patrick Guilbaud (Ireland’s only two-star Michelin). The Merrion Hotel, Dublin 2. 01 603 0600; merrionhotel.com. Doubles from €250 per room.
GREGANS CASTLE HOTEL, CO CLARE The Haden family’s 18th Century manor house hotel is set in lush gardens that overlook a spectacular stretch of the Burren – and this location has lured many illustrious guests over the years. J.R.R. Tolkien was a regular visitor in the 1950s and is said to have been inspired to rewrite chunks of The Lord of the Rings after his visit to the lunar-landscape of the Burren. But as striking and magnetic as the Burren landscape undoubtedly is – it is the stellar cooking at Gregans that has been creating a stir of late. Chef Mickael Viljanen won numerous accolades for his cooking at the hotel in recent years and now new head chef David Hurley is taking the menu to even greater heights with delicate dishes such as organic Clare Island salmon, lightly spiced cauliflower, aubergine and pickled cucumber. There are few places in Ireland offering such a winning combination of urbane eating and escapist retreat. Gregans Castle Hotel, Ballyvaughan, Co Clare. 065 707 7005; gregans.ie. Doubles (B&B + dinner) from €325 per couple.
FABULOUS FOOD
CITY STYLE
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STELLAR SPA
ULTIMATE ESCAPE
COOL FOR KIDS
PARK HOTEL KENMARE, CO KERRY As anyone who has watched At Your Service knows, if there is one thing hoteliers John and Francis Brennan know about, it’s the meaning of the word hospitality. It’s something the brothers take very seriously when it comes to running their own hotel – the Park Hotel Kenmare. For more than a century, the hotel has been synonymous with luxury, fine dining and discreet service and in more recent years it has added the major draw of a truly worldclass spa. This is the perfect combination of old meets new – with traditional turf fires, gleaming antiques and state-of-the-art spa. Park Hotel Kenmare, Co Kerry. 064 664 1200; parkkenmare. com. Double room (B&B) from €290. INIS MEÁIN RESTAURANT & SUITES, ARAN ISLANDS Ruairí and Marie-Thérèse de Blacam are the creative couple behind this unique gastroguesthouse. Since opening in 2007, the venue has won countless culinary awards and accolades. In the kitchen, Ruairí uses lobster and crab caught by local fishermen in currachs, and vegetables grown on site using island seaweed as fertiliser. A twonight stay is the minimum and anything less would be a crime, as all bookings include the Inis Meáin Exploration Kit (cube bicycles, Steiner binoculars, fishing rods, hotpot lunch) to explore the stunning surrounds. Inis Meáin Restaurant & Suites, 086 826 6026; inismeain.com. Suites (B&B) from €228 per night. DRUIDS GLEN RESORT, CO WICKLOW When you’ve got little people in tow, it can be a real challenge to find a hotel to keep everyone happy. Not so at Druids Glen, where kids will be kept busy with an indoor games room, outdoor playground, DVD library, golf lessons, movie club and swimming pool. While parents have the awardwinning golf course and spa on hand to keep them smiling. There are picnic baskets to rent and handy maps and guides prepared – so no excuse not to head off and explore Powerscourt Waterfall or the Glendalough lakes. The surrounding Wicklow countryside is spectacular. Druids Glen, Newtownmountkennedy, Co Wicklow. 01 287 0800; druidsglenresort.com. Double room (B&B) from €139.
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Gastro Greats
When it comes to quality food produce, Ireland can hold its head high. Here Ross Lewis, Michelin-starred chef and co-owner of Chapter One restaurant in Dublin, pays homage to the producers and the people who have made food in this country great. WORDS: AOIFE CARRIGY PHOTOGRAPHY: BARRY McCALL
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“You see the world more clearly standing on the alongside the incredible range of cultivated mushrooms shoulders of giants,” says Ross Lewis in his soft Cork he supplies to the restaurant. “It’s about an exchange brogue. He is being modest of course. The multi- of knowledge as much as the supply of a product.” award-winning chef is renowned for his loyal support Crucially, today’s Irish diner allows Lewis and his team of Irish artisan food producers over two decades as full reign to play with whatever ingredients they can get chef-proprietor of Dublin’s Michelin-starred Chapter their hands on. He remembers the days dominated by One restaurant. But in truth the unique vantage restaurants like Le Coq Hardi where expense-accounts point of the contemporary Irish food scene which diners in suits and Charvet shirts would expect prime Lewis enjoys today was achieved through standing cuts served centre stage, with a portion of vegetables shoulder to shoulder with those producers, alongside and starch on the side. Today’s diner is as likely to be other key co-members of the chefs’ a 14-year-old hooked on the drama association Euro-toques Ireland, “Throughout my career, the of competitive cooking television such as the inimitable Myrtle Allen aspect that has given me the series and requesting to experience of Ballymaloe fame. most satisfaction has been Michelin-starred dining firsthand As Chapter One continues to as a birthday treat (“that’s not an sweep the boards at annual Irish working with the artisans.” oddity, that’s common”), or culinarily restaurant awards, the recent curious thirty-somethings who are publication of Lewis’s tour-de-force cookbook, Chapter “as comfortable eating sushi as they are bacon and One: An Irish food story, afforded him an unusual cabbage”. The result, says Lewis, is that he “could opportunity to reflect on his 27-year career and the literally cook anything, and all these well-travelled remarkable development of Irish food it has mirrored. Irish people are open to it: it’s just become a pleasure.” “Looking back over my career, the aspect that has Lewis identifies another key game-changer in recent given me the most satisfaction has been working with decades. “For me, the biggest change in my time as a the artisans.” He cites the example of Mark Cribbin of chef, unmistakably, is the internet. To think that you Ballyhoura Mountain Mushrooms, who “might bring in could do something unique on Inis Meáin and that everything from wild ceps or reindeer moss to rosé crab within a year or two you would be found by consumers apples or wild horseradish to starters for fermentation”, and the media – that connectedness is unbelievable.”
Ross Lewis’s Little Black Book of Secret Spots to Eat Great Irish Food FARMGATE CAFE English Market, Cork city, www.farmgate.ie +353 (0)21 427 8134
SHA-ROE BISTRO Clonegal, Co Carlow sharoebistro@hotmail.com +353 (0)53 937 5636
AN PORT MOR Westport, Co Mayo www.anportmor.com +353 (0)98 26730
INIS MEAIN RESTAURANT & SUITES Aran Islands, Co Galway www.inismeain.com +353 (0)86 826 6026
CANTEEN AT THE MARKET Blackrock, Co Dublin blackrockmarket.com/ market-canteen +353 (0)86 061 4637
MONK'S LANE Timoleague, Co Cork www.monkslane.ie +353 (0)23 884 6348 FARMGATE CAFE, CORK
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Not only has the internet allowed consumers to discover exciting food projects, but it has allowed ambitious young Irish chefs expand on their culinary skills and techniques without necessarily having to leave the country to do so. And that modern connectedness – combined with the “co-operative, collective power” of what Lewis characterises as the big Irish food family – could be key to unlocking what he sees as a very bright future for Irish food, particularly if we tap into our potential to become a very unique food tourism destination. “We are already recognised overseas for very pure, wholesome primary produce,” Lewis argues. But what
is ripe for discovery is the myriad of authentic food stories that truly belong to unique places. Lewis cites another example, this time a “raw cow’s milk cheese with a dark red speckle and a kind of meaty, sweet, salty, minerally, vegetal flavour” called Dilliskus. It’s produced by Irish cheesemaker Maia Binder “in an old stone cottage overlooking the Atlantic near to Castlegregory – she has planted herself into this landscape and she’s making this cheese that exactly reflects the terroir of where she is, that reflects that wet grass and sweet, salty sea. You just don’t get great cheese like Dilliskus anywhere else in the world.”
Carpaccio of spiced beef with mature Gouda, creamed shallots and horseradish This simple dish brings together some great food artisans: Tom Durcan and his spiced beef from the English Market in Cork, Kitty Colchester and her organic cold pressed rapeseed oil, and Dick Willems and his Gouda. All the flavours are perfectly aligned and work beautifully together. If ever a dish symbolised the work I do with artisans, this would be it. Serves 8 For the creamed shallots 25ml olive oil 250g shallots, finely diced 250ml white wine 125g crème fraîche 1 tbsp Dijon mustard 35g creamed horseradish 2g salt 1 drop mustard essence
Creamed Shallots Heat the oil in a pan and add the shallots. Stir and sweat the shallots for 4 minutes, without browning, then stir in the wine. Turn up the heat and reduce until the liquid is almost gone. Lower the heat again and add the crème fraîche. Simmer until the mixture thickens. Remove from the heat, then mix in the Dijon, creamed horseradish and a pinch of salt. Check seasoning, adding more salt and some pepper if needed, then add the mustard essence. Mix well and chill.
Serving Finely chop the beetroot stalks and reserve, then slice all the vegetables on a mandolin and only use the perfect slices – you will need about 10 per portion. Use a meat slicer to cut thin slices of the beef and lay on a piece of greaseproof paper, allowing 5–6 slices or around 50 g per portion. Spread a heaped teaspoon of creamed shallots in a circle in the To serve centre of each plate and lay the slices of beef on top, overlapping to form a circle. Using 100g baby root vegetables a microplane, cover the beef with an even layer of grated Gouda. Toss the shaved baby (beetroot, carrot, parsnip, vegetables and pickled king oyster mushrooms with the watercress leaves, dress with radish and turnip), scrubbed some of the oil from the mushrooms and a little lemon juice, and season with salt. Scatter 500g piece spiced beef, frozen on top of the beef. Finish with some of the rapeseed oil, a drizzle of apple balsamic and 50g piece Coolea Mature Gouda 100g pickled king oyster mushrooms, the reserved beetroot stalks. sliced if very large handful fresh watercress leaves Chapter One: An Irish Food Story is published by Gill & Macmillan. juice of 1/2 lemon 100ml cold-pressed rapeseed oil 10g apple balsamic cider vinegar
Think Suits Think
www.lo uis co pela nd .co m
Weir & Sons Catalogue Collection
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The Platinum Diamond Collection Platinum is one of the rarest elements in the world. It is known as the noble metal
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1. €3,450 *D 2. €2,130 *F 3. €2,060 *F 4. €1,520 *F Items featured are shown larger than actual size. *Letters refer to the colour of the stone
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The Engagement Collection
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The exclusive Weir setting includes a timeless four claw solitaire
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5. €11,520 *D 6. €11,520 *D 7. €5,930 *E 8. €2,025 *E 9. €1,380 *F Items featured are shown larger than actual size. *Letters refer to the colour of the stone
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Love me Tender y 5.
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1. €1,240 *F 2. €2,620 *F 3. €3,670 *E 4. €3,845 *F 5. €1,600 *E 6. €2,780 *G 7. €1,985 *G 8. €1,995 *F Items featured are shown larger than actual size. *Letters refer to the colour of the stone
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The Platinum Diamond Collection Make a statement of your love with one of these stunning rings
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2. 5.
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1. €3,390 *E 2. €2,620 *F 3. €2,535 *F 4. €1,980 *F 5. €1,640 *F Items featured are shown larger than actual size. *Letters refer to the colour of the stone
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1.
2.
The Yellow & Rose Gold Collection
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1. €2,697 *D 2. €3,1,30 *D 3. €2,010 *F 4. €2,820 *F 5. €.1,520 *G 6. €1,615 *F 7. €4,140 *D 8. €3,720 *D 9. €3,520 *F Items featured are shown larger than actual size. *Letters refer to the colour of the stone
WEIR.IE
1.
Promise 2.
With this ring I thee wed
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1. €1,215 2. €1,510 3. €1,415 4. €1,265 5. €1,395 6. €1,190 Items featured are shown larger than actual size.
WEIR & SONS MAGAZINE
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Bands of Love
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1. €1,560 2. €975 3. €1,715 4. €1,999 5. €3,075 6. €3,950 7. €685 8. €1,580 9. €895 10. €1,250 11. €685 Items featured are shown larger than actual size.
WEIR.IE
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Sapphire Royalty and elegance, truth and sincerity
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1. €14,150 2. €19,400 3. €3,320 4. €2,700 5. €2,020 6. €3,160 7. €2,700 8. €3,820 Items featured are shown larger than actual size.
L I F E
I S
A B O U T
M O M E N T S
C E L E B R AT I N G E L E G A N C E S I N C E 1 8 3 0
CLIFTON RED GOLD, 39 MM SELF-WINDING www.baume-et-mercier.com
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Ruby Love and vivacity, passion and power 1.
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1. €10,275 2. €1,140 3. €1,015 4. €2,845 5. €3,360 Items featured are shown larger than actual size.
WEIR & SONS MAGAZINE
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3.
Gems of every colour dazzling in the light
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1. €4,620 2. €3,720 3. €6,920 4. €2,620 5. €7,665 6. €3,250 7. €2,895 8. €5,060 9. €12,930 Items featured are shown larger than actual size.
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Stunning sets to collect
Earrings €1,055 Necklace €1,080 Ring €915 Items featured are shown larger than actual size.
WEIR & SONS MAGAZINE
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1. €4,815X 2. €1,220 3. €2,995 4. €1,415 5. €1,070 6. €7,855 7. €1,180 8. €3,430 Items featured are shown larger than actual size.
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I have always felt a gift diamond shines so much brighter than one you buy for yourself. Mae West
Drop earrings €799 Necklace €745 Ring €1,235 Stud earrings €3,595 Items featured are shown larger than actual size.
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Showstopping pping pieces to captivate and enchant
Ring €2,635 Necklace €1,950 Earrings €1,399 Items featured are shown larger than actual size.
WEIR & SONS MAGAZINE
Necklace €1,260 Stud earrings €1,115 Drop earrings €2,945 Ring €1,930 Items featured are shown larger than actual size.
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Modern Rose Delicate rose gold pieces with a contemporary twist 3.
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1. €1,090 2. €2,180 3. €540 4. €625 Items featured are shown larger than actual size.
WEIR.IE
Perfect pendants to be treasured forever
Necklace â‚Ź790 Earrings â‚Ź915 Items featured are shown larger than actual size.
WEIR & SONS MAGAZINE
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1. €940 2. €595 3. €1,720 Items featured are shown larger than actual size.
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Contemporary pendants exquisitely crafted
1. €915 2. €860 3. €915 Items featured are shown larger than actual size.
from ENGAGEMENT to ETERNITY
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2.
3.
1.
The
Vintage
Collection
y
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1. €1,285 2. €1,140 3. €760 4. €1,846 5. €1,835 6. €970 7. €1,835 Items featured are shown larger than actual size.
WEIR & SONS MAGAZINE
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The Vintage Collection is a celebration of beauty, timelessness and longevity
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8. €4,150 9. € 19,710 10. €370 Items featured are shown larger than actual size.
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Pendant, €3,310. Pink gold (18kt) ring with white ceramic, €1,100. Special edition Roma pink gold (18kt) ring with bronze ceramic, €1,390. Watch, €5,760.
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Gold necklace (18 kt) with diamond pavè rondel, €7,608, from the Flex’it collection. Gold flexible bracelets (18 kt) with diamond pavè rondel, €4,428 each.
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The Horsebit Collection: Watch with brown sun-brushed dial and stainless bangle with horsebit buckle €650. Watch with white mother of pearl dial and stainless steel bangle with horsebit buckle €1,350. Sterling silver necklace with rhodium plating, €650. Sterling silver hoop earrings with rhodium plating, €495.
LIVE YOUR
PASSION
MANUFACTURE WORLDTIMER Handcrafted in-house movement. Manufacture Collection: in-house developed, in-house produced and in-house assembled movements.
More information on www.frederique-constant.com
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Double-prong emerald pendant (1.5ct), €265. Double-prong emerald studs (1.5ct), €210. Knife edge emerald cut solitaire (1ct), €341. Microset radiant drops in fancy yellow (1.5ct), €703. Modified princess border setting (1.5ct), €695.
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White gold stud earrings (18kt) with round Tahitian pearls (9.5-10mm), €955. White gold pendant (18kt) with diamonds (0.16ct) and a round Tahitian pearl (9-10mm), €1,590. White gold earrings (18kt) with diamonds (0.20ct) and round Tahitian pearls (9-10mm), €1,695. White gold ring (18kt) with diamonds (0.19ct) and a round Tahitian pearl (10-11mm), €1,695.
MAKERS OF THE ORIGINAL SWISS ARMY KNIFE I WWW.VICTORINOX.COM
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Montblanc Extreme Collection: UrbanWalker cufflinks, €275. Wallet with coin case, €250. TimeWalker chronograph DLC, €5,320. StarWalker steel screen writer, €485.
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Masterpiece tray, €365. Ribbon candleholder, €95. Flora vase, €121.
Our CrOwning Jewel 125 Years in the Making 2014
1889
Limited edition
Cross.com
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Bubble collection Akoya cultured pearl, diamond and white gold earrings, €1,910. Akoya cultured pearl bracelet set with an white gold ball clasp with diamond push button, €1,895. Bubble collection Akoya cultured pearl, diamond and white gold necklace, €1,385.
Red Arrows limited edition Chrono-Time A-T, €1,200. Gents’ Perpetual Chronograph A-T, €399. Gold Plated Sunrise watch from the Citizen Ladies’ L collection, €775.
Chopard Imperiale necklace, €2,395. Bracelet in rose gold and amethyst, €3,020.
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Star Piece
Make everyday a Hollywood moment with this head-turning statement ring. PHOTOGRAPHY: TREVOR HART STYLING: TANYA GRIMSON
Vintage inspired Aquamarine ring, set with a 10.49 carat aquamarine, surrounded by 16 round brilliant-cut diamonds and set in 18kt white gold to a yellow gold shank, â‚Ź11,380, Weir Collection.
IMPERIALE