Bachendorf's

ACCENT The Magazine of Life’s Celebrations • Fall/Winter 2015/16

FILMS TO WATCH THE NIK OF TIME RAYMOND WEIL SALUTES FRANK SINATRA

THE GIVING SEASON

CONTENTS

Fall/Winter 2015/16

FEATURES 4 Welcome Letter

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S T O R E L O C AT I O N S : P L A Z A AT P R E S T O N C E N T E R 8400 PRESTON ROAD DALLAS, TX 75225 214-692-8400 GALLERIA LEVEL 1 13350 DALLAS PARKWAY

6 Sales Team Profile: Paolo Ongaro

SUITE 1415 DALLAS, TX 75240 972-392-9900

10 Events 12 Spotted: As Seen On…

S H O P S AT L E G A C Y– N O R T H 7401 LONE STAR DRIVE SUITE B100

14 Designers: Marco Bicego

PLANO, TX 75024 972-596-2090

16 Designers: Lisa Nik 18 Designers: Pesavento

P U B L I S H E D B Y T H E B J I FA S H I O N G R O U P PUBLISHER

20 Tis the Season to Be Giving 22 Pearls: Timeless & Trendy 24 From the Runways

STU NIFOUSSI EDITOR-IN-CHIEF KAREN ALBERG GROSSMAN C R E AT I V E D I R E C T O R HANS GSCHLIESSER

30 Watch News INTERIM MANAGING EDITOR

32 Timepieces: Films to Watch 34 Icons: The Test of Time 36 Style: 5 Fall Finds

BRIAN SCOTT LIPTON PROJECT MANAGER LISA MONTEMORRA DESIGNER JEAN-NICOLE VENDITTI

38 Speed: Leading the Charge 40 Gadgets: Gifting 2.0 42 Interiors: Wall Streak 50 Spirits: The Fame Game

PRODUCTION MANAGER PEG EADIE PRESIDENT AND CEO BRITTON JONES CHAIRMAN AND COO MAC BRIGHTON

52 End Page: All That Glitters Prices are subject to change without notice and may vary depending on size, quality and availability. Copyright 2015

BRIDAL SECTION 44 Engagements: Tiffany & Reed 46 Jewelry: Symbol Pleasures

Accent® is published by Business Journals, Inc, P.O. Box 5550, Norwalk, CT 06856, 203-853-6015 • Fax: 203-852-8175; Advertising Office: 1384 Broadway, 11th Floor, NY, NY 10018, 212686-4412 • Fax: 212-686-6821; All Rights Reserved. The publishers accept no responsibilities for advertisers’ claims, unsolicited manuscripts, transparencies or other materials. No part of this

48 Planning: Modern Love

magazine may be reproduced without written permission of the publishers. Volume 13, Issue 2. Accent® is a trademark of Business Journals, Inc. registered in the U.S. Patent and

COVER IMAGE COURTESY OF NORMAN SILVERMAN

Trademark office. Printed In The U.S.A.

OYSTER PERPETUAL L ADY-DATEJUST PE ARLMASTER

rolex

oyster perpetual, lady-datejust and pearlmaster are trademarks.

welcome To Our Valued Customers and Friends,

M

y family opened the first Bachendorf’s store in Dallas at Campbell Centre in 1974 in the same building that was later used as Cliff Barnes’ office building in the original TV show Dallas. We moved the store to the beautiful brand new Prestonwood Mall in 1979, where I worked at the age of 20. We subsequently closed that store in 1998 and moved it to our current location at the Plaza at

Preston Center. Our flagship store at the Galleria Mall opened in 1984 and The Shops at Legacy North in 2003. Each of these stores holds a special place in my heart and defines a chapter in our history. As I look back on the past 41 years of being a part of our family business, I am so grateful for the generational loyalty of so many of our clients, whom I now count amongst my friends.

In order to keep up with the times, we began a complete makeover of our Bachendorf’s store at the Plaza at Preston Center this summer.

I want to thank our customers who visited us for their patience with the very loud and dusty construction. My hope is that everyone will agree with me that it was worth the wait. The most exciting changes are the additions of a new Rolex corner, complete with an official Rolex watchmaker, and added space to accommodate a larger selection of jewelry for our customers.

I hope all of you will come in and see our exciting changes in this beautiful new space. Nino Panoyan, our new store manager, will be happy to welcome you. He has a rich history in our industry and is very knowledgeable about our products. He has already brought so much value to our company as he truly understands the importance of customer service.

For those of you who knew Arnaud, the former store manager, you can still see him at our Rolex boutique at the Galleria Mall, as he has taken over the role of manager at that location.

As always, I would love to hear thoughts and comments from all of you about what you see that you like, as well as any suggestions as to how we can make your experience in our stores better.

Sincerely, Lawrence Bock President

The Galleria Mall - Level 1 13350 Dallas Parkway Dallas, TX 75240 (972) 392-9900

Shops at Legacy – North 7401 Lone Star Drive Plano, TX 75024 (972) 596-2090

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Plaza at Preston Center 8400 Preston Road Dallas, TX 75225 (214) 692-8400

BACHENDORF’S SALES TEAM PROFILE

I

t should really come as no surprise to Bachendorf’s customers that resident gemologist Paolo Ongaro, who joined the company two years ago, really knows his stuff. To begin with, Paolo is a native of Venice, Italy, the home of Murano glass, and comes from several generations of master artists there. He was then a showroom manager at Venice’s renowned Ca’ dei Dogi Art Glass Gallery before he moved to the U.S. more than 25 years ago to be with his wife Renee (a retail sales consultant).

“Growing up in Europe, you develop a great appreciation for customer service,” he says. “And my early exposure to the beautiful jewelry I saw in Venice led me to want to know more about gemstones and the art of jewelry, and then to become a gemologist.”

Indeed, since arriving in America, Paolo has studied at the Gemological Institute of America in Santa Monica, California.

He worked at the Diamond Cellar in Columbus, Ohio and Trieber & Straub in Milwaukee before joining Bachendorf’s. Paolo has become one of the company’s most valued salespeople and is currently partnering with toplevel executives on the development of a new comprehensive sales program. “My favorite part of the job is not just being around so many beautiful things, but being part of so many memorable moments in our customers’ lives,” he says.

Speaking of beautiful things, Paolo is thrilled that during his tenure at Bachendorf’s he has become a product ambassador and received advanced training for Roberto Coin jewelry, Omega watches and Forevermark diamonds, in addition to gaining exposure to all the amazing brands which Bachendorf’s carries. “I love the simple organic lines of the Marco Bicego collection, because of the warm colors of his gemstones along with the fine Italian workmanship,” he says. “I have a passion for watches as well. The intricate workmanship of fine Swiss timepieces combined with the sophistication and beauty of Swiss-made movements make them into wearable marvels of engineering.”

While Paolo is devoted to his career and customers at Bachendorf’s, he plays as hard as he works. “I am an avid soccer player, and I love watching my kids play soccer, too. My oldest, Michela, is a junior at Oklahoma State University and plays on their Cowgirls soccer team, and my son Matteo is a senior in high school and plays soccer there,” he says. “I also enjoy gardening and working in the backyard, spending time with family and friends at outdoor barbecues, and traveling.”

My early exposure to the beautiful jewelry I saw in Venice led me to want to know more about gemstones and the art of jewelry, and then to become a gemologist.”

PAOLO ONGARO

GIA Gemologist The Plaza at Preston Center Dallas, Texas

EVENTS AT BACHENDORF’S AT BACHENDORF’S JEWELERS, WE CONTINUE OUR LONG-STANDING TRADITION OF HOSTING FUN EVENTS TO ENTERTAIN CLIENTS AND BENEFIT CHARITABLE CAUSES.

WINGS & WHEELS AT MILLION AIR

The sixth annual Wings & Wheels, a lifestyle event featuring a display of aircrafts and fine collectible automobiles

KIDNEY TEXAS RECEPTION Bachendorf’s hosts reception for Kidney Texas Luncheon

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CATTLE BARON’S BALL LIVE AUCTION PREVIEW Guests celebrating Cattle Baron’s Ball Live Auction at the newly renovated Bachendorf’s

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spotted Chrissy Tiegen wore David Yurman at the CFDA Awards.

Kristen Stewart wore Stephen Webster in the August 2015 issue of Marie Claire.

Our favorite stars share a love for our favorite brands!

BY JILLIAN LAROCHELLE

James Marsden wore David Yurman at the Met Gala.

IMAGE BY TESH, STYLING BY ALISON EDMOND

As Seen On...

Dakota Johnson wore Forevermark at the 2015 Academy Awards.

Meghan Trainor wore David Yurman on The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon.

Nick Jonas wore David Yurman at the ACM Awards.

Dascha Polanco wore Roberto Coin at the Billboard Latin Music Awards.

Kate Winslet wore Marco Bicego in the April 2015 issue of In Style.

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designers

EXQUISITE

elegance Marco Bicego delivers Italian style and craftsmanship.

BY BARBARA WHEAT

Left: Marco Bicego Paradise collection and Diamond Lunaria collection

T

here’s a reason that jewelry designer Marco Bicego embraces “Made in Italy” branding for his contemporary jewelry designs: his work is inspired by his Venetian origins and the area’s natural surroundings. Moreover, having grown up in his father’s atelier in Veneto, Italy, he understands the importance of old-world tradition and fine craftsmanship. No wonder Bicego is involved in every aspect of the production of his handmade creations.

At his state-of-the-art factory in Vicenza, the grated floor serves as a safety net for catching findings and other parts used in the making of his jewelry lines. (The grating is lifted twice a year in order to sweep the floor below, where all of the materials are reclaimed for use.) Inside the factory, the talented artisans who specialize in different areas of the production process carefully craft each component of Marco Bicego jewelry. Some fashion the intricate gold constructions, while others set the many colored stones and diamonds used in the designs. What they have in common is that they all feel the same passion for ensuring quality in every piece of jewelry.

In keeping with the designer’s passion for nature, the signature of his Goa collection is the use of swirling lines and curves combining 18K white or yellow gold with white diamonds. Bicego’s vision can also be seen in his latest collection of 18K gold jewelry and colored gemstones, aptly named Paradise: The New Color Explosion, which features fabulous styles in “sorbet colors.” Layered necklaces of gold chains and colored gemstone drops are the highlight of this grouping. Bracelets and earrings are similarly adorned and crafted with hand-engraved yellow gold elements.

Fanciers of Bicego’s work, notably those who are already familiar with his Lunaria collection of organically shaped gold leaves, will especially appreciate his newly launched Diamond Lunaria collection, featuring hand-set diamonds and bulino-technique hand-engraved links.

Many of these designs boast an exquisite texture, an effect that is achieved by extremely fine hand etching.

No matter which line you purchase, Marco Bicego brings exquisite elegance to every woman’s personal style.

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TAG HEUER CARRERA LADY DIAMONDS Cara Delevingne challenges rules. Being free-minded is her motto. Like TAG Heuer, she defies conventions and never cracks under pressure.

designers

F

INTHE NIK OFTIME Designer Lisa Nik combines color and craft to create fabulous everyday jewelry.

BY JACKIE THOMPSON

or over a decade, Lisa Nik has been combining colored gemstones, diamonds and other artful elements to create fabulous, fashionable jewelry that women can enjoy on any occasion. Bachendorf’s recently spoke to Nik about her start in the industry, what she learns on her travels, her predictions for upcoming trends, and why she loves Dallas.

When did you know that you wanted to be a jewelry designer?

After graduating from Pepperdine University with a degree in economics, I knew that I wanted a career that would enable me to combine creativity and business with an opportunity to work on an international scale. I took my first job with an Italian luxury jewelry company that two years later established an operation in New York. I immediately realized that the development and design of new products and categories was my passion. I learned a lot there, and through my natural instinct along with my experience, I was able to turn many of my ideas into best sellers for the firm that I worked for. Fifteen years later, I left and pursued my dream to establish my own collection.

You travel quite a bit for work. How do the places that you visit or the people that you meet inspire your jewelry?

Every time I return from a trip, I write about the jewelry and trends that I notice in each city. One of the most important tools for me as a designer is really listening to the women I am working with. By gaining a better understanding of what they like and what they would like to see from the collection, I am able to constantly improve it. But I also learn a great deal from the men who I work with as they select gifts for their loved ones. These are often people who shop and collect jewelry on a regular basis and view the pieces with a more neutral eye. The perspective that they offer is very helpful and provides me with insights for design as well as pricing. Many of the stores that carry my collection are located in resorts and major cities, which helps me to connect with clients who are looking for something different while enabling me to take more design risks.

What do you like most about Dallas?

What I love about Dallas is the way that women wear their jewelry every day. People leave the house dressed in style and they love to wear colored gemstones along with their classic gold and diamond pieces. There is also a strong sense of community and social activities that support local charities. Many of the women I have worked with in Dallas enjoy buying their jewelry together in groups, as an activity of friendship while making the whole experience fun — more like a stylist session than a regular jewelry appointment.

Do you have a favorite piece of jewelry that has been given to you?

My favorite piece of jewelry that has been given to me is my diamond engagement ring. My husband was able to surprise me by making me believe that he wanted me to give him a lesson about diamonds. I believed that he was just curious about learning more about diamonds. At the end of the lesson, he asked, “So, is this the kind of diamond you would see yourself wearing?” and I said “Yes.” The next thing I knew, it was mine and we spent the next several weeks designing the ring together. For a personal touch, the ring has a small heart underneath the diamond that only we know is there.

What trends do you predict in jewelry design?

The color category has become extremely saturated over the past few years. I predict a major return to classic yellow gold jewelry as well as a continuation of layering and stacking thin jewelry. In terms of colored stones, I predict that people are going to start looking for more exotic gemstones in their jewelry such as rare opals, tourmalines, spinels, emeralds and sapphires. Romantic themes, vintage styling and one-of-a-kind offerings will be even more important for designers in order to set themselves apart from the rest.

I would also like to emphasize the growing trend of women buying jewelry for themselves. I feel that one of the greatest gifts that a woman can give is treating herself to a piece of jewelry that she can proudly wear as something she has earned.

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速ROBERTOCOIN

BLACK JADE COLLECTION

designers

Clockwise from top: The Polvere di Sogni collection; the DNA collection; Marino Pesavento; Chiara Carli

BOLD&

beautiful Pesavento offers unique creativity and innovation.

BY BARBARA WHEAT

C

reativity and innovation are the hallmarks of the Italian jewelry line Pesavento, which has been experimenting with unusual materials and proprietary jewelry-making processes since 1992 to create bold and vibrant designs. In the early days of the brand, creators Marino Pesavento and Chiara Carli were influenced by architecture, but their current inspiration comes from the multitude of beauty found in their surroundings. Their goal remains the same as it has always been: to put together beautiful pieces that every woman will enjoy wearing, whether on a daily basis or for special occasions.

Each and every Pesavento piece is crafted entirely in Italy and is the result of the combination of the classic workings of the Italian goldsmith’s tradition, innovation and technological experimentation.

Marino Pesavento describes the development process as being quite time-consuming, especially since it includes the actual wearing of the jewelry over several days to “understand the piece and discover ways to fine-tune it.” After any needed revisions are decided upon, the final

prototype is made and worn once again to satisfy the team.

One of Pesavento’s proprietary manufacturing techniques can be seen in the DNA Collection: a process that delicately weaves elastic links into the sterling silver design, giving the piece a soft, flexible property. Like most of the Pesavento collections, DNA rings contain adjustable bars along the interior for easy sizing. Materials include antique pink sterling silver, 18K pale pink gold oxidized with a sulfate, and ruthenium sterling silver.

Rhodium sterling silver dome rings, multi-colored leather and sterling silver-wrapped pieces characterize the Pixel Collection, which also features diamond accents in some designs.

Meanwhile, Pesavento’s “dust” is a proprietary manufacturing technique that utilizes nanotechnology to combine enamel with other natural products. It can be seen in the company’s Links and Polvere di Sogni collections.

Pesavento designs are the perfect additions to any jewelry wardrobe for women seeking an added touch of elegance and sophistication.

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pearls

TIMELESS &

TRENDY

Today’s fashion-forward pearls can be mixed with traditional styles. BY RUTH J. KATZ

THE CULTURE OF MIKIMOTO

T

The genius behind the cultured pearl was Kokichki Mikimoto. Prior to his determined experimentation over 100 years ago, pearls existed naturally, and only naturally. They are created when an “intruder” (something even as tiny as a grain of sand) enters a mollusk, and in an effort to protect itself against the invading irritant, the oyster coats it with calcium carbonate, or nacre.

Mikimoto developed a way to induce the oyster to create pearls “on demand” by introducing that irritant by hand, a laborintensive operation. Today, Mikimoto produces the world’s finest pearls in designs from classic to high-fashion.

According to Meyer Hoffman, chief operating officer, Mikimoto America, “Design and fine craftsmanship are the core principles of Mikimoto, and the classic cultured pearl strand is iconic to the brand.

Our new collection features an array of gemstones, vibrant colors, and new shapes, drawing inspiration from an imagined, magical world, exploring new and innovative ways to create jewelry that showcases the pearl, nature’s purest gem, in unexpected playful ways.”

he pearl is truly the world’s most timeless jewel. Cleopatra is said to have created a lavish repast by crushing pearls into nectar, while Coco Chanel was always awash in a sea of pearls (and is an excellent model to emulate by owning many strands, worn mix-and-match). So whatever pearls you buy today will become tomorrow’s heirlooms, as these gorgeous gems are always a solid investment.

For fall/holiday 2015, fashion-forward designers are making bold statements with pearls in fanciful ways, whether mixed with cascades of rainbow-hued gemstone briolettes, offset with semi-precious stones, like lapis or turquoise, or wrapped like a twisted rope

(a torsade) and set with staccato notes of coral or jade. Today, pearls are often accented with rondelles (bead-like “spacers”) of emeralds, rubies, sapphires or diamonds, which telegraph chic opulence alongside the snowy orb. At the other end of the spectrum, we’ve also seen pearls mixed with wood, ebony— even denim!

Still, the traditional look never feels dated.

The crowning jewel of a bride’s wedding-day finery—a single, luxe strand of pearls—remains the just-right accessory. And that same single strand—whether crafted with pearls of the same size or graduated—packs an equally strong fashion punch worn with a simple T-shirt or a red-carpet-worthy gown.

In the words of Peter Bazar, president of the Cultured Pearl Association of America (a non-profit association comprised of some 50 pearl manufacturers, wholesalers and dealers), “Pearls never go out of style and are the most appropriate jewelry for career women, socialites, politicians—any woman who wants to feel and look classy and sophisticated.”

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WATCHNEWS

BY BRIAN SCOTT LIPTON

There’s always something new in the wide world of watches, from timepieces that commemorate special occasions in history to state-of-the-art technological innovations to books and blogs that let us know more about what we wear on our wrists.

THE WRITE STUFF

Watch connoisseurs who are seeking the most up-todate information on what to wear on their wrists are turning more frequently to the internet to increase their knowledge. Among the most popular sites is hodinkee.com, an eight-year-old online magazine whose popular features include Hands On, which provides all the skinny on the newest watches. Another favorite is watchanish.com, a three-year-old blog that is known not only for its smart text, but also for its super-sharp photography taken all over the world.

Co-founder Anish Bratt gears the writing to both aspirational men and those who are already immersed in the wide world of watches. Meanwhile highly informational site watchreport.com keeps buyers and enthusiasts up on the latest news in the industry, while watchville.com aggregates content from all the relevant blogs and websites.

HISTORY LESSON

Few books live up to their titles as accurately as Rolex: History, Icons and Record-Breaking Models, the lavishly illustrated new tome by Mara Cappelletti and Osvaldo Patrizzi. This stunning 152-page volume, published by the Antique Collectors Club, not only delves into the heritage of the beloved Geneva-based watch company, but also includes technical information on the brand, numerous pages devoted to such timeless timepieces as the Oyster Perpetual, the Explorer, the Submariner and the Daytona, and an entire section on vintage Rolexes that fetched jaw-dropping prices in the auction market. It’s the next best thing to actually owning a Rolex…or adding another one to your collection.

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timepieces

FILMS TO

Watch Hollywood’s leading men have kept wristwatches in fashion.

BY BETH BERNSTEIN

most desirable male stars over the past 90 years.

The Son of The Sheik, 1926

W

omen’s jewelry often helps define what we know about female film characters and creates a desire among viewers for similar pieces in real life. Unsurprisingly, watches worn by leading men have done the same. In the past few years alone, IWC has provided character-driven timepieces for Jeremy Renner in The Bourne Legacy and Michael Douglas in Wall Street: Money Never Sleeps; Justin Timberlake wore a Breitling Chronomat 44 as he pursued Mila Kunis in Friends with Benefits; and Matthew McConaughey shared screen time with his Tag Heuer Grand Carrera Chronometer in the title role of the The Lincoln Lawyer. Many companies have even designed special-edition watches for films, such as the U.K.-based specialty brand Bremont, which created three chronometers for the 2014 action film Kingsman: The Secret Service, starring Colin Firth.

Cartier, Rolex and Omega take top honors in the Hollywood pantheon, having made a slew of memorable appearances on some of the film world’s

The first wristwatch ever to be shown on celluloid was the Cartier Tank worn by heartthrob Rudolph Valentino in 1926’s silent film The Son of the Sheik. It reportedly belonged to Valentino himself; indeed, the watch had nothing to do with the costumes and had no place in the story. Back then, men were still flipping open their pocket watches to tell time.

But once Valentino sported the Cartier Tank (which was inspired in name and design by World War I tanks) wristwatches began to replace the pocket watch in popularity. The sleek Tank is now available in approximately 250 variations.

Charismatic Cary Grant, himself a Tank fancier offscreen, wore one as beleaguered ad executive Roger Thornhill in Alfred Hitchcock’s 1959 thriller North by Northwest. The 1968 film The Thomas Crown Affair starred Steve McQueen, one of Tinseltown’s most passionate watch lovers, as a stylishly bored millionaire-turned-jewel-thief who wears a variety of high-end watches, including a Cartier Tank. Strong-but-sometimes-silent Gary Cooper owned the Tank Basculante (the so-called “tipping” Tank), while screen icon Warren Beatty sported Cartier Tanks throughout much of the 1960s and 1970s.

ROLEX Clark Gable personified tough-guy sex appeal, but off the screen he also understood the value of refined luxury timepieces. His vast watch collection included a 14K gold Rolex Oyster Perpetual Ref. 6011, which he wore in the 1953 adventure film Mogambo. When that timepiece went up for auction at

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IMAGE COURTESY OF FEATURE PRODUCTIONS/ KOBAL

CARTIER

Fifty Shades of Grey, 2015

IMAGE COURTESY OF FEATURE PRODUCTIONS/ KOBAL

sport an Omega Seamaster Professional 300m.

Hunky Daniel Craig continues the tradition to this day: He wore two Omega models—a blue Omega Seamaster300m Chronometer and a Seamaster Planet Ocean 600m Co-Axial Chronometer—in his Bond debut, Casino Royale. He is expected to don an Omega or two in the upcoming 24th Bond film, Spectre.

Intriguingly, Omega watches are worn by another character who craves danger: sadomasochistic businessman Christian Grey, who has an Omega on his wrist in E.L. James’ steamy best-selling novel Fifty Shades of Grey.

Staying true to the book, Grey’s cinematic portrayer, Jamie Dornan, wears an Omega Seamaster Aqua Terra Chronograph and a black-faced Omega Speedmaster Moonwatch Co-Axial Chronograph in the film version released in early 2015. Clearly, it’s a step up from handcuffs.

Bonhams’ “What Dreams Are Made Of” sale in November 2013, it sold for over $28,000.

The dream team of Robert Redford and Paul Newman shared the screen on numerous occasions (including in Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid), along with their love of Rolexes. Redford wore a Rolex Submariner, model 1680, in his private life and in at least two of his films: The Candidate and All the President’s Men. Meanwhile, Newman caused a stir when he sported a Rolex Daytona with a bi-color dial in the poster for the racing film Winning, which caused collectors around the world to begin referring to this model by the actor’s name.

Talk about dashingly handsome men and you can’t help but think of British MI6 agent James Bond. In the series’ 11th book, On Her Majesty’s Secret Service, author Ian Fleming wrote that Bond sees a heavy Rolex Oyster Perpetual on a metal bracelet as he awakens in the middle of the night. Meanwhile, Sean Connery, the original actor to portray Agent 007, wore a Rolex Submariner in the first of the Bond films, 1962’s Dr. No, as well as in the next six Bond films in which he appeared.

Beth Bernstein is the author of If These Jewels Could Talk (ACC Art Books).

FILM FACT: Both Rolex and Omega have been the official watches of James Bond on screen.

IMAGE COURTESY OF WARNER BROS/KOBAL

All the President’s Men, 1976

OMEGA In 1995, Omega won the bid to become the new official 007 watch. In GoldenEye, Pierce Brosnan became the first Bond to

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icons

the test of On the 100th anniversary of his birth, Frank Sinatra is being celebrated worldwide, including by Raymond Weil with a limited-edition watch.

BY KAREN ALBERG GROSSMAN

Raymond Weil’s Maestro Frank Sinatra watch with its signature back and classic face; Sinatra with the Tommy Dorsey Band

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IMAGE BY OTTO M. HESS MUSIC DIVISION, THE NEW YORK PUBLIC LIBRARY FOR THE PERFORMING ARTS

I

n celebration of the centennial of Frank Sinatra’s birth, the world is focusing on everyone’s favorite cultural icon and his influence on American music, art and fashion.

Among the many events, concerts and lectures around the country commemorating this significant milestone was a recent exhibition at The New York Public Library for the Performing Arts at Lincoln Center, curated by the Grammy Museum in Los Angeles (where it will be seen beginning in late October). The exhibition features photos, family mementos, rare correspondence, personal items, art and music, much of which has never before been displayed in public.

The exhibition’s quintessential Sinatra quote was given by Bob Santelli, executive director of the Grammy Museum: “Everyone who ever heard him sing felt a little bit better about the world and themselves.”

And as contemporary crooner Michael Feinstein put it, Sinatra specialized in “songs meant to be experienced with a cigarette in one hand and a drink in the other.”

Because he was born on 12/12 (1915), Raymond Weil is issuing only 1,212 pieces of their gorgeous Maestro Frank Sinatra watch.

Featuring a classic design (white face, brown leather strap with brown stitching, thin profile) with stainless steel case, blue color numerals and dials (to reference Sinatra’s blue eyes), and open caseback with visible movement inscribed with his last name and signature top hat logo, this watch is a timeless treasure to pass down through the generations.

In fact, of the 1,212 watches, numbers 1, 2, and 3 will be gifts to Frank’s three children: Nancy, Christina and Frank Jr. That’s life!

UNTAMED PERFORMANCE, meet unrivaled client service.

Boasting a thrilling 380-horsepower V6 engine, the Jaguar F-TYPE S takes power and speed to the next level. One look is all it takes to realize this is something completely new—from the stunning lines to the next-generation supercharged engine and remarkably responsive handling.

The F-TYPE Coupe also boasts unique signatures, like slimline headlamps with integral LED running lights and flush-fitting retracting door handles. There’s nothing like it on the road. And appropriately enough, you’ll find it at a dealership with an experience like no other: Park Place.

PA R K P L AC E JAG UA R DA L L A S | 5300 Lemmon Avenue

|

214.849.5300

PA R K P L AC E JAG UA R P L A N O | 4422 W. Plano Parkway

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972.769.2000

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JaguarDallas.com |

JaguarPlano.com

style

5 Fall Finds Menswear is having a moment. The New York Times just launched a dedicated Men’s Style Section, #Menswear has become a household hashtag, and growth in men’s clothing sales has reportedly outpaced women’s wear. So if you haven’t updated your closet in a while, the time is now. We’ve made it easy by highlighting the top five trends for fall 2015. Here’s what you need now. BY ELISE DIAMANTINI

2.

THE SWEATER Whether chunky or lightweight,

1.

turtleneck or crew, sweaters are in season for fall. Have fun with this staple by layering one over a button-down shirt or under a sportcoat, or buy a statement sweater to be worn alone. You can never go wrong with luxurious cashmere sweaters like this gorgeous textured crewneck made by the popular contemporary brand Vince.

THE BOLD ACCESSORY A simple way to spice up your everyday suit is by adding colorful

accessories like interesting cuff links, a knit tie or colorful socks. We particularly love these links from the vintage collection by Deakin & Francis, a British company now in its seventh generation.

4.

THE PUFFER JACKET The puffer jacket is the “It” outerwear piece for

3.

fall. It’s time to get rid of that big, bulky jacket because new slimmer styles will keep you current and warm. Canada Goose is an authentic brand that fuses fashion with function, offering waterproof, breathable down fabrics in trimmer, more modern silhouettes.

THE “NEW BLUE” SUIT

If you didn’t know, suits are now slim (not skinny) and the “new blue” is the right hue.

Celebrities like Ryan Gosling and David Beckham have been seen sporting this shade of blue because it’s fresh and versatile.

(Pair it with black or brown shoes.)We love this style from Hickey Freeman, especially since it’s made in America.

5.

THE JOGGER PANT

This trend is your excuse to wear sweatpants in public. The only catch: they have to be tailored. No loose, baggy sweats from your college days here. We’re talking slim, sophisticated styles like this pair from Relwen, worn with sleek sneakers or boots.

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speed

A

LEADING THE CHARGE TAG Heuer sponsors the next big thing in auto racing.

BY DAVID A. ROSE

THE RACE IN MIAMI The only American driver in the field was Scott Speed, who drove for the only American team, Andretti Autosport. Speed was 10th on the starting grid, but each lap he challenged those ahead of him and made one pass after another. During the penultimate lap he took over second position and then chased down the leader. He got within a millisecond of the first-place car just as the checkered flag dropped to end the race, rewarding Speed with a second-place finish in his home Formula E race.

“Racing this car is the most unique experience I’ve had in my racing career,” notes Speed.

“Without being able to hear the engine (and with such advanced technology), you have to be a lot more calculating in the car. Fortunately, this is a strong suit of mine because I’ve always been a methodical thinking-type of driver. It’s much more of a chess game in this series because you’re dealing with varying energy levels. And with so many important people behind it, [Formula E] will

IMAGES COURTESY OF FIA FORMULA E COMMUNICATIONS DEPARTMENT

surely be a big part of motor racing’s future.”

s the world becomes more sensitive to sustainability, so does the auto industry. While hybrid cars have been on the market for a while, experts predict with continued battery development, the future will be all-electric.

In fact, this year marked the world’s first-ever racing series featuring all-electric cars. Held on city streets around the world, the Formula E races began in Beijing with subsequent races taking place in Malaysia, Uruguay, Buenos Aires, Miami, Long Beach, Monte Carlo, Berlin and Moscow, The season finale was on June 27, 2015 in London.

I was in Miami for the first-ever Formula E race in North America—and it was amazing. Formula E cars closely resemble Formula 1 and Indy cars but they’re all-electric powered. The electric engines catapult them from 0 to 62 MPH in three seconds and to a top speed of 140 MPH. There are 10 teams in Formula E; each team has two drivers and each driver has two cars. At half distance, each driver pulls into the pits, jumps out of one car and slides into the other to complete the race.

This will be the format for the hour-long race until a battery is developed that can last the whole event.

All the elements that have thrilled race fans for decades are part of the show, but these cars burn no fuel so there’s no exhaust, no fumes and zero emissions.

In addition to the pristine air, the most notable difference between Formula E and other forms of motorsport is the reduced noise level. With no screaming engines, the sound is limited to squealing tires, transmission gears and the whisper of the wind.

A longtime sponsor of motorsports, TAG Heuer considered Formula E its next logical step in marketing since the company is genuinely committed to sustainability. (In fact, its facilities in Switzerland have solar roofs!)

In addition to preserving the planet, perhaps the most significant contribution of Formula E racing is that the technology being developed in its advancement will ultimately translate to even better road car safety.

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Fly By Night Collection

k gadgets

Gifting 2.0 GO HI-TECH (OR NOT) THIS HOLIDAY SEASON. Pesavento offers unique creativity and innovation

BY BARBARA WHEAT Every part of our lives is now wired (or wireless)–from smart home temperature-maintenance systems to self-driving cars. For the holidays, we present gadgets that introduce hitech systems into new arenas, as well as gifts of handcrafted elegance that allow you to slip (momentarily) off the grid.

BY ROBERT HAYNES-PETERSON

Go Into Overdrive

Safe and Stylish

Race car sets haven’t really changed much in 40 or so years, until now. The Anki Overdrive features slot-free racing with cars that communicate via smartphone app. (The phone doubles as your controller.) These state-ofthe-art cars can “learn” new moves, achievements and defenses; up to six friends can race at the same time; and the flexible track is completely customizable. Young’uns will love it, but it’s stylish enough for a hi-tech office. Starter kit $150

Italian custom cruiser designer Abici’s new leather bike lock protects your bike from scratches and your clothes from grease.

The chain is marine-grade stainless steel and the lock is nickel-plated brass (also wrapped in leather) to reduce tarnishing.

As with bespoke Italian shoes, the leather will only improve with age. $160 at kaufmann-mercantile.com

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A Riveting Ride It’s not often a starship captain helps design a custom ride worthy of a superhero. Actor William Shatner (Star Trek’s original Captain Kirk) partnered with American Wrench to create the Rivet Motors motorcycle, a three-wheeled "landjet." (He then took Rivet #1 on an eightday cross-country journey along the old Route 66, benefiting The American Legion.) Wrapped in riveted steel-brushed fiberglass like a WWII bomber, it’s designed to ride as smoothly as a car with the open-road passion of a bicycle. Price TBA

Good to the Last Drop It’s not often you come across halfcentury-old whisky, especially one that’s produced by an OBE. But that’s what you get with The Last Drop 1965 48 Year, which is culled from some of the best and rarest stock in Scotland.

Founder James Espey (OBE) and his partners at The Last Drop Distillers have decades of experience in the liquor industry and craft impeccable limitededition négociant-style whiskies.

Indeed, the “youngest” components of this edition (limited to 543 bottles) were distilled the same year the Rolling Stones released Satisfaction. $4,000

Sure Shot Blending the best of iconic style and trailblazing technology, the Leica Q, the latest release from the German optics leader, offers a high-sensitivity, fullframe sensor and super-fast aperture lens in a compact, fixed-focus Leica body. Designed to capture low light and high speed equally well, the 24-megapixel camera also shoots HD video and features WiFi wireless image transfer. There are also a host of luxe accessories available. $4,250

A Perfect Fit

Like Fitbit for your clubs, Arccos golf trackers are sensors that fit easily onto the end of each club. You can now accurately measure, via iOS app, approach and driving distances, provide live shot tracking and receive full Tour analytics. Maps of over 20,000 courses around the world graphically display your game, shot by shot. $400 for 14 sensors, app and starter guide

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interiors

W all Streak

Fancy wall treatments can enliven any room.

extra? Drake and New York-based designer Charles Pavarini love adding eye shadow into paint to create a “strie” effect that, as Pavarini notes, “results in an ever-changing finish that varies in effect as it absorbs and reflects light.” Drake also favors using a topcoat of Japanese microflakes (which are applied with a 19th-century tool called a baby duster) to create gorgeous surface glimmer.

And don’t be afraid to feel that “more is more.” For a room at New York’s famed Kips Bay Decorator Show House this past spring, Pavarini crafted a soaring mantelpiece that was clad in pewter-leafed travertine mosaic tile. Oversized mirrors, bold artwork and beautiful dishes were hung on many walls throughout the mutli-story dwelling. “I never fear hanging art on walls, even those that already have texture or color. I think it adds richness to the room,” says Drake. “You just want to make sure it doesn’t look like a gallery.”

BY BRIAN SCOTT LIPTON From top to bottom: Vertical Stitched wallpaper by David Rockwell for Maya Romanoff Charles Pavarini’s “Midnight in Manhattan” room for the Kips Bay Decorator Show House Digital wall covering by Trove

Y

IMAGES COURTESY OF MAYA ROMANOFF, PAVARINI DESIGN AND MARCO RICCA

our room may boast a gorgeous piece of antique furniture, a beloved family heirloom, or the most adorable photo of your children or pet. But the first thing people may notice when they walk in to that room is the walls. Fortunately, top-notch designers and wall treatment companies are continually finding new ways to make those four walls as visually arresting as possible.

“There are plenty of divine solutions beyond mere paint to give these surfaces character, texture and serenity, all of which are particularly important if you’re dealing with new construction,” says noted designer Jamie Drake, whose clients include former New York City mayor Michael Bloomberg. “Wallpaper is definitely back in vogue, and patterns and textures have made a big comeback. We also love wallpapers that use digital printing, which can be created on-demand, as well as those that have hand-blocked patterns.”

Indeed, the importance of having handmade wallpaper is also stressed by Jessie Deveraux, vice-president of marketing for Maya Romanoff, the well-known Chicago-based firm famous for its singular wall treatments and collaborations with such important designers as David Rockwell. “Our product development comes from the constant dialogue we have with major designers, and handmade, luxury finishes are really our top priority these days,” she notes.

If you do want to paint the walls, why not add a little something

42

engagements

Tiffany & Reed

The couple, who plan to wed on December 30, 2016, recount their courtship, very special proposal, and buying the ring at Bachendorf’s. choosing the right ring. Ultimately, Mr. Bock showed me several different rings that he thought Tiffany would like based on my descriptions of her taste, and then we mixed and matched from there to find the perfect match for Tiffany.

Are you happy with the ring he chose for you?

T: I’m in love with the ring he designed. I am very particular with my style, and he was right on point. He put a lot of thought and time into it.

How did you two meet?

Tiffany: We met in law school. I eyed Reed at orientation in August, and I thought he was super-cute. He finally asked me out in October. He did so by writing it into a study outline we were creating for our Torts class.

Reed: I saw Tiffany for the first time on the first day of classes. We ended up sitting next to each other the second day of classes and soon after we formed a study group. I know it sounds crazy, but I fell in love with her within the first couple of times that we exchanged words. I worked up the courage to ask her on a date a couple of months later.

Reed, when did you decide to propose?

R: Well, I first started seriously thinking about it in March of this year, but I made the final decision to propose shortly after we finished our final exams in early May. How did you choose Tiffany’s engagement ring?

R: I used her Pinterest page to get a general idea of what she liked as far as a style for the ring, and I also paid close attention whenever Tiffany made comments about liking or disliking various things about other people’s rings that we ran across. After I got a pretty general idea of what Tiffany liked in a ring, I got in touch with Mr. Bock to help me out with the finer points of picking out the ring. He was great, and I learned a lot that I didn’t know about

Tell us about the proposal from both of your points of view.

R: For me, the actual proposal was the culmination of a lot of hard work, planning and saving. So, while I admittedly was a bit nervous, I was more elated that it was finally time to actually propose. A few weeks prior to the proposal, I couldn’t decide exactly how I wanted to go about asking her because I had so many different competing ideas. I knew that Tiffany deserved a proposal that was truly memorable and special. Fortunately, however, Tiffany unwittingly gave me the perfect proposal idea for us a couple weeks before I had planned to propose; she told me about this new sushi restaurant called Uchi that she desperately wanted to try, but couldn’t because it was so popular that it was completely booked for about a month on Friday and Saturday nights. So, I nonchalantly told her that “I would look into it,” and try to get us a good reservation. Then I reached out to Uchi’s booking manager and made a Saturday night reservation for us in the private dining room. Because I didn’t want her to be suspicious, I only told Tiffany a couple of days before the reservation that I was able to get us in.

T: I was really excited about getting to check out Uchi. I kept talking about it. I was in awe of the fact that he went out of his way to get us in. It’s just one more illustration of how Reed always goes out of his way, in both big and small ways, to make me feel so loved and happy. He’s incredible. During the middle of dinner, we were talking about how much we love each other and being together. And then he said “and that’s why,” and started getting up and walking around the table. Then he got down on one knee and said “Tiffany Nicole Neurohr, will you marry me?” I started freaking out and, obviously, I said yes.

Sounds like the perfect dinner and proposal. Did anything go wrong?

T: I was annoyed early in the evening because Reed was running late for dinner, which he has a tendency to do. He apologized for being late and said he wasn’t going to come up with excuses. Later, I found out he was late because he was polishing the ring and getting all the final details ready before he proposed. I felt horrible that I was giving him such a hard time about being late. Then, I got cold at dinner, and Reed offered me his jacket. As he was taking it off, I saw him grab something out of an inner pocket and asked him what he had pulled out. He said it was his cellphone, and luckily I took the bait, since it was really the engagement ring.

44

™ and A Diamond is Forever™ are Trade Marks of The De Beers Group of Companies. ™, © Forevermark Limited 2014-2015. Forevermark™,

I T ’ S A LO N G J O U R N E Y TO B ECO M E T H E O N E .

In our constant pursuit of absolute beauty, every Forevermark diamond undergoes a journey of rigorous selection.

This is why less than one percent of the world’s diamonds are worthy of the Forevermark inscription - our promise of beauty, rarity and responsible sourcing.

Forevermark is part of The De Beers Group of Companies.

JEWELRY

BY JULIANNE PEPITONE

2 8 0 0 B . C . E . : The Egyptians are the first to sport rings, which are made of hemp or reeds like their Neanderthal predecessors’. Over time, they move to iron, and then to gold or silver wire. These rings are worn on the third finger of the left hand, which is erroneously thought to contain the vena amoris: a “vein of love” that runs directly to the heart.

A N C I E N T R O M E : Wives are presented with two wedding rings: an iron piece meant to be worn at home while performing housework, and a gold version to show off wealth when visiting town. The rings are either attached to small keys or feature a key engraved into the band, meant to symbolize that the husband owns his wife.

14 7 7 : The inventive Archduke Maximillian of Austria commissions one of the first recorded diamond engagement rings for Mary of Burgundy, sparking a trend among European royals.

symbol pleasures

17 0 0 S : Sentimental Europeans are partial to “poesy” or “posy” rings, which are engraved with romantic rhyming verses to be presented to a lover. Meanwhile, in colonial New England, the demure Puritans opt for a humble betrothal thimble rather than a lavish piece of jewelry—but many women cut off the tops of the thimbles and wear them as rings anyway.

WEDDING RINGS AND BANDS

18 0 0 S : The Victorian era brings the “dearest” ring, a stonestudded band with gems that “spell” out the endearment: Diamond, Emerald, Amethyst, Ruby, Emerald, Sapphire and Topaz.

B R I D A L

46

18 8 8 : Cecil John Rhodes and his investors form De Beers Consolidated Mines, Ltd., which moves quickly to try to control the world’s growing diamond supply.

19 4 7 : De Beers launches the now-iconic “A Diamond is Forever” campaign, dreamed up by advertising agency N. W. Ayer.

(It was recently reinstated.)

19 6 5 : A whopping 80 percent of American engaged couples now choose a diamond ring to mark their betrothal.

2 0 1 5 : In recent years, ring trends have become more varied, says Gizzi, noting that more couples discuss the engagement ring before the betrothal, with women often choosing their own style, or shopping as a couple. Colorful stones like rubies and aquamarines are gaining in popularity, with or without diamonds.

S E C T I O N

ISTOCK

Wedding jewelry has changed immensely since Neanderthals painted cave glyphs, but the idea of an unbroken circle has continued to resonate with couples throughout the eras. As Amanda Gizzi, spokesperson for Jewelers of America, notes: “Traditions have evolved so much over time. But when you boil down what goes into a ceremony, a ring remains the ultimate symbol of union and never-ending love.”

But boy, has that simple symbol changed over time!

Ancient texts indicate that a caveman supposedly tied braided pieces of grass or reeds to his wife’s ankles, wrist or waist, possibly to keep her spirit from escaping her body.

Over the past 5,000 years, here’s what has happened to show how men and women remain “tied together” for all time.

the history of rings

HAVE COME FULL CIRCLE.

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ColorE Grade

Grade Clarity VS1

Grade CutExcellent

For over 80 years, GIA has brought clarity and global standards to gem evaluation. A GIA report means expert, independent verification from the creator of the 4Cs and the world’s most widely recognized gem authority.

Look for GIA-graded diamonds and jewelers who offer them.

CARLSBAD ANTWERP BANGKOK DUBAI GABORONE HONG KONG JOHANNESBURG LONDON MUMBAI NEW YORK OSAKA RAMAT GAN SEOUL TAIPEI TOKYO

BY ELISE DIAMANTINI

PLANNING

modern love

WEDDING PLANNING APPS AND BLOGS ARE BECOMING A BRIDE’S BEST FRIEND.

depending on how you look at it, the fun or

TOP TIPS

the stress of planning the big day begins. Like

WeddingWire’s senior editorial

most other things, modern-day wedding

associate, Caitlin Zentgraf Krebs,

planning has gone online. In a survey

shares her secrets for staying

conducted by Mashable and theknot.com, 89

calm and organized while

Congratulations! You’re engaged. Now,

percent of people said they used wedding

planning your big day.

planning apps to make checklists, look for

Relax : Take a step back from the

gowns,

track

stress and remember to keep

countdowns. Of those respondents, 70

stay

organized

and

calm, cool and collected. We

percent started creating Pinterest boards

suggest regularly exercising,

before they even got engaged and 51 percent

eating healthy meals and

became “more realistic with their pins after

squeezing in the spa for a

they got engaged.” Clearly, the need for

mani/pedi. After all, you need your

online organization has become an essential

bling to shine!

part of the process for those planning their

Delegate: Your family and

upcoming nuptials.

friends are there to help. Feel free

There’s no shortage of online wedding

to give them a handful of tasks to

planning tools either. Sites like Pinterest,

conquer from your ever-growing

WeddingWire, Lover.ly and The Knot all offer

to-do list.

unique ways for couples to manage their to-

Have a Plan B : Resist the urge

do lists, keep track of inspirational images

to check the weather every hour

and ideas, host registries and create personal websites, among other things. WeddingWire even launched

on the hour for rain. It will simply

a WedSocial app to help guests stay informed of all the details regarding the couple’s special day. Pinterest has also

cause you more stress. However,

become an essential part of planning because it allows users to bookmark inspirational images, videos and ideas

that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t

on a personal page and/or share with others.

have a Plan B. Have Fun : The entire planning

And while online planning tools aren’t replacing traditional wedding planners, they are acting as

process allows you to get those

supplemental guides. These sites can help brides find

creative juices flowing. There’s no

local vendors, follow experts and be creative. It seems

judgment in having a Pinterest

like the ideas are endless online; the hardest part won’t

inspiration board! Your wedding is

be finding inspiration, but making decisions to narrow

supposed to be a reflection of

down what you really want.

your relationship, right?

Savor It : From the engagement

WeddingWire’s senior editorial associate, Caitlin Zentgraf Krebs, says current wedding trends include

party to the goodbye BBQ, you’ll

laser-cut

feel the love when surrounded by

invitations,

greenery

arrangements,

(especially seeded eucalyptus and succulents), rose

all your family and friends. Be

gold jewelry, temporary tattoos as favors and of

sure to take a moment to step

course, Ed Sheeran’s Thinking Out Loud song for the

back and soak it all in.

first dance.

B R I D A L

48

S E C T I O N

© HAYNSWORTH CREATIVE LLC

www.haynsworthphotography.com

spirits Coco Chanel There are two different cocktails named for the famous designer. The first is an unlikely, but delicious, blend of gin, cream and Kahlua. The second is a Lillet-driven libation, variations of which are served at Betony in New York, as well as the Beaufort Bar inside the Savoy Hotel in London (where Mme. Chanel often spent time), as one of their four Character Cocktails. * 1.5 oz vodka * .5 oz Lillet Blanc * .5 oz red wine and blackberry syrup reduction * Moët & Chandon 2004 Vintage Champagne In a mixing glass, add vodka, Lillet and red wine reduction. Add ice, stir well and strain into a flute glass. Top with Champagne.

Hemingway Daiquiri

The

Ernest Hemingway reportedly earned the moniker “Papa Doble” after downing 16 double daiquiris in one (very long) sitting. After being diagnosed, not surprisingly, with diabetes, he came up with his own version replacing some of the sweetener with grapefruit juice and reducing the alcohol. Consider visiting one of his Cuban haunts, still in business, like La Bodeguita del Medio in Havana. * 1.75 oz Caña Brava Rum * .75 oz Luxardo Maraschino Liqueur * 1 oz fresh lime juice * .75 oz fresh grapefruit juice * .25 oz simple syrup Combine all ingredients in a cocktail shaker. Add ice and shake very well. Strain into a chilled cocktail glass and garnish with a lime wheel and maraschino cherry. If you prefer daiquiris frozen, that’s okay: so did Papa.

F AME game

Delirium: AKA The Bill Murray In 1917, the Waldorf-Astoria honored comic genius Charlie Chaplin with an eponymous cocktail. In 2015, Sweetwater Social, a vintage-themed craft cocktail bar with a relaxed vibe in New York’s Greenwich Village, offers up a drink celebrating contemporary clown king Bill Murray. “Now don’t tell anyone you saw me.” * .75 oz Elijah Craig Bourbon * .75 oz Ron Zacapa Rum * .75 oz Laphroaig Scotch Single Malt * .33 oz Demerara Coffee Syrup (or .25 oz maple syrup) * 4 drops Bittermens Mole Bitters Combine all ingredients in a mixing glass. Add ice and stir until wellchilled. Strain into a rocks glass with one large ice cube. Garnish with three coffee beans.

Celebrity-themed drinks go way beyond the Shirley Temple.

BY ROBERT HAYNES-PETERSON

Blood & Sand

C

elebrity-themed cocktails have been popular nearly as long as there have been cocktails. In the 1882 Bartender’s Manual by legendary barman Harry Johnson, historic punches are named after British notables who popularized them in the 18th and 19th centuries. Likewise, the Negroni is named after its alleged inventor Count Camille Negroni, and the Royal Highball—a signature blend of Champagne, cognac and strawberry juice created at the Ritz Hotel in Paris—was named in honor of Spain’s King Alfonso XII. Since the silent film era, however, the trend for naming drinks after entertainers has been something of a mainstay that continues to this day. Not every muse will inspire long-lived cocktails. (The “Taylor Swifte” at Jockey Hollow Bar in New Jersey, for example, may not be around by the time you read this.) Here, however, are a few libations still listed on select menus, along with a couple of new “classics,” that show promise for staying power.

50

This drink was named for the famed Rudolph Valentino film and first documented in The Savoy Cocktail Book in 1930. Now, New York’s vintage-influenced Astor Room, situated in the historic Kaufman Astoria Studios, is the perfect spot to order it: Rudy shot several films here (and ate lunch in this same location). * 1 oz blended Scotch whisky * .75 oz sweet vermouth * .75 oz Cherry Heering Liqueur * .75 oz fresh orange juice Combine all ingredients in a cocktail shaker. Add ice, shake very well and strain into a coupe or cocktail glass. Garnish with an orange peel.

The Edison The Edison Downtown Bar in Los Angeles has long been one of the foremost craft cocktail lounges in the country. Located in a building that housed the city’s first private power-plant, the bar (and this drink) “celebrates an era of invention and imagination.” This drink effortlessly melds historic ingredients with contemporary technique. * 1.5 oz Woodford Reserve Bourbon * .5 oz pear-infused cognac * .5 oz fresh lemon juice * .25 oz honey syrup In a cocktail shaker, combine all ingredients. Add ice, shake well and strain into a cocktail glass. Garnish with a lemon wheel or flamed lemon peel.

ENDPAGE “We are a restless people and seeking beauty is part of our quest.”

© GOLD OF AFRICA MUSEUM, CAPETOWN, SOUTH AFRICA

— MATTHEW HART, AUTHOR AND JOURNALIST

Gold is a lens for viewing all of history.

BY KAREN ALBERG GROSSMAN

© RONALD DE HOMMEL

Clockwise from top left: Ashanti Queen Mother, Ghana; gold bars; artisanal gold miner in El Chocó, Colombia

52

A

GOLD OF AFRICA MUSEUM, CAPETOWN SOUTH AFRICA; RONALD DE HOMMEL

glitters All That

t a recent seminar organized by Initiatives in Art and Culture, historian Matthew Hart described a memorable trip to a gold mine at the eastern extremity of Dakar. “It’s an ancient gold production area that’s been recently rediscovered,” he explains. Its history is indeed fascinating: Starting in about 800 A.D., the region supported a succession of empires with fabulous wealth, especially the Mali Empire in the Middle Ages. In fact, Mansa Musa, who was the biggest gold supplier in that part of the world, is said to have been the richest man who ever lived! When he made his pilgrimage out of the desert in 1324, it was a glittering caravan of 60,000 cavalry, 12,000 slaves and 80 camels. But when he got to Cairo, the market was unable to absorb the gifts he was distributing and the price of gold crashed for the next 10 years. Ultimately, the Mali Empire exhausted its gold, unable to maintain the level of production needed to sustain the empire, which morphed into a series of industrial mines.

Why is gold worth anything at all since, unlike copper or iron, it’s not supported by industrial use? Hart answers the question thoughtfully. “At different periods in history, as far back as 635 B.C.E., gold has been used as money.

But that’s not the answer: we should ignore the monetary aspect. More important is gold’s intrinsic beauty, its long history of decorating caves, decorating bodies, creating objects of desire. We are a restless people and seeking beauty is part of our quest. At the brink of civilization, gold was what made us human.”

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BACHENDORF’S ACCENT THE MAGAZINE OF LIFE’S CELEBRATIONS

FALL/WINTER 2015/16