Loring & Co. Fine Jewelers Magazine

RAINFOREST GUARDIAN

Rolex Associate Laureate Topher White is saving the climate one cellphone at a time

THE ULTIMATE DIVE WATCH The new Tudor Black Bay 58

DIAMOND BUYING GUIDE

Find the engagement ring you’ll love forever

the pavefle x collec tion

LAYER UP Looking for ways to keep your look fresh? Start stacking!

The layering craze, which made its grand entrance a few seasons ago, shows no sign of slowing down. It's a great way to make a statement with your jewelry and change up your look. But if you're new to the technique or if you struggle with mixing, matching and stacking, fear not.

Here the Italian designer Roberto Coin shows us exactly how to do it using some of his favorite pieces.

Layering necklaces=easy chic Wearing multiple necklaces creates that easy-chic vibe that can elevate any outfit.

Start with a long statement necklace. To spice things up, play with other looks, mixing and matching necklaces in varied styles, widths and lengths; that way, each individual piece stands out. Just be sure to keep the one closest to your neck simple, so it doesn't overwhelm you.

Bracelets=endless styling possibilities Bracelets are easy to stack, easy to collect and easy to master because you aren't playing around with different lengths. For visual harmony and comfort, try to keep the weight of each bracelet consistent. And for maximum punch, pile on a few or arm each wrist with a different look —a bold cuff or stack on one and a more delicate bangle or two on the other. Keeping bracelets in the same metal unifies the look.

Mix-and-match rings= a one-of-a-kind look Stacking rings come in all manner of shapes, sizes and designs — and that's what's great about them. One alone makes a pretty accent, but worn together they have maximum impact. And it's fun to grow a collection.

Jewelry shown: Top, Roman Barocco Collection; above right and left, Pois Moi Luna Collection.

8 LORING & CO. MAGAZINE

U P

C L O S E

W I T H

FOR 24 YEARS, LORING & CO. FINE JEWELERS has been treating their loyal clientele as an extension of their family-run business. With true Southern hospitality and a commitment to excellence in both customer service and product offerings, owners Rick and Eleanor

R I C K

A N D

E L E A N O R

Eleanor: I love the start of the day, full of expectaion. Every day brings a surprise!

Rick: Definitely mornings. Most days start with a workout and optimism for a great day.

Q: If a theme song played every time you walk into a room, what would it be?

Loring are always delighted to share their passion and expertise with luxury timepiece

Eleanor: Sweet Home Alabama

and jewelry aficionados in their Huntsville,

Rick: The Eyes of Texas

Alabama community.

Q: Instagram or Facebook?

Eleanor: Instagram Rick: Instagram Q: What’s your mantra for dealing with a difficult client?

Eleanor: To listen and be kind and empathetic.

Rick: I really try to listen and make sure I understand what the customer is upset about. Empathy, honesty and a sincere effort to help them works best for me.

Q: I won’t leave home without ____________

Q: How long have you been in business?

Eleanor: My lipstick.

Rick and Eleanor Loring: 24 years.

Rick: My gym bag.

Q: How did you get into jewelry and watch retail?

Q: If you could own another type of store,

L O R I N G

what would it be?

Eleanor: An interior shop or French Patisserie.

Rick: Probably a coffee shop or a running/fitness shoe and apparel store.

Q: Favorite vacation spot?

Eleanor: Greece Rick: Ditto Q: What’s your exercise routine?

Eleanor: Walking with girlfriends and working out at the Y. Rick: Crossfit and a good run.

Q: What’s the first piece of jewelry you fell in love with?

Eleanor: The locket my father gave my mother when he was stationed in England during WWII. Rick: A Rolex Stainless and gold Submariner with blue dial.

Q: How do you motivate your staff?

Eleanor: We work as a team and enjoy supporting and assisting each other.

Rick: We are all about monthly store goals instead of individual goals.

Eleanor: I worked at a jewelry store after graduating from The University of Alabama and have been involved in the industry ever since.

Rick: Since college, I’ve always wanted to own a business. I had the good fortune of marrying Eleanor who had a very successful career in the industry. In addition, I get to work with my brother, Tom Loring.

Q: What’s the favorite part of your day?

Adapted from the Couture article “Sweet Home Alabama”

10 LORING & CO. MAGAZINE

T H E

M A G A Z I N E

by L O R I N G

CONTENTS

&

C O .

VOL.2, NO. 1

FEATURES 12

MAGAZINE

RAINFOREST GUARDIAN Rolex

Associate Laureate and conservation technologist Topher White is saving the climate one cellphone at a time.

TIMELESS STYLE The new Tudor Black Bay 58

DIAMOND BUYING GUIDE Finding the diamond you’ll love

Marco Bicego pieces are so mixable and matchable. Here we feature selections from the Lunaria and Petali Collections.

A SMART INVESTMENT OPPORTUNITY— A SWISS TIMEPIECE

Four noted watch experts weigh in on what to buy now.

COLUMNS 8

20

LAYER UP

TIMELESS STYLE

Looking for ways to keep your look fresh? Start stacking.

Introducing the Tudor Black Bay 58 — the ultimate dive watch.

15

24

ICONIC ELEGANCE

LUXURY SUVS: OUR 2021 PREVIEW

The Rolex LadyDateJust is a classic for a reason.

Luxury SUVs are bigger, faster and some come with all the comforts of a private jet.

19

THE FIVE MOST EXPENSIVE WRISTWATCHES EVER SOLD AT AUCTION Paul Newman’s $17,752,500

LORING & CO. GIFT GUIDE

The Loring & Co. team share their personal picks for the jewelry and watch lovers on your list.

30

How Rolex Associate Laureate Topher White is saving the climate one phone call at a time.

ON OUR COVER

16

28

RAINFOREST GUARDIAN

Daytona and more.

23

STYLE STAPLES

Chic and on-trend, jewelry looks you can wear every day.

ALL THAT GLITTERS...

A sparkling sampling of diamond jewelry from our Rahaminov collection.

34

LORING & CO. DIAMOND BUYING GUIDE Let us help you find

the perfect engagement ring — the one you will love and cherish forever.

11 LORING & CO. MAGAZINE

32

NATURAL WONDERS

Fresh new takes on pearls.

Rainforest

GUARDIAN Rolex Associate Laureate and conservation technologist Topher White is saving the climate one cellphone at a time

Topher White hoisting himself into the treetops.

12 LORING & CO. MAGAZINE

A LOT OF WORLD-FAMOUS ENTREPRENEURS STARTED THEIR COMPANIES IN A garage. That includes the founders of Amazon, Apple and Google — and Topher White, the founder of Rainforest Connection. His idea for repurposing used cellphones to create a surveillance system of listening devices that can report illegal logging in the world's most vulnerable rain forests started in his parents' garage in the Haight-Ashbury neighborhood of San Francisco.

For more than four decades, Rolex has supported exceptional individuals like White, who have the spirit of enterprise, initiating extraordinary projects that help make the world a better place.

The first Rolex Awards were presented in 1976 to commemorate the anniversary of the iconic Rolex Oyster Watch. And in the decades since, an impressive roster of laureates — whose passions and projects reflect the concerns of the times — have been chosen from around the globe. Over the last six years, use of White's monitoring devices

Topher White

has expanded well beyond his garage to remote rainforests throughout the world. It also earned him a coveted Rolex Award for Enterprise.

Every second of the day, approximately two and a half acres of tropical forests are destroyed or drastically degraded, according to the INCUR (International Union for Conservation of Nature), threatening the survival of many species. Illegal logging is the biggest contributor to deforestation, which in turn contributes to climate change. With the world’s rainforests now shrinking so fast that they may be gone by 2100, the need for ways to prevent illegal logging and monitor forest wildlife is urgent.

White's system, in which he rigs a cellphone to stay charged by solar cells was designed to do just that. “One of the most amazing things is that we’re using old technology, the stuff no one’s excited about, to do really cutting-edge science and conservation around the world,” White explains. “We take an old cellphone – the ones everyone

13 LORING & CO. MAGAZINE

“The amount of land protected will be the equivalent of taking six million cars off the road, 400 million trees protected, and 30 million tonnes of CO2 sequestered.” Topher White throws away – and we can put it high up in the trees of the rainforest.

It can listen to all the sounds and, using artificial intelligence, we can pick out the noise of chain saws, logging trucks, road building – or even of endangered species of birds or animals.”

Currently, hundreds of the treetop monitoring devices have been installed over multiple continents creating a powerful "forest guardian" standing ready to provide timely warnings to communities and law enforcement agencies. “We form partnerships with local tribes, government agencies and community groups, and we can send alerts to them so they can actually show up and stop the illegal activity in real time, on the ground,” White says.

The same technology is also being used to monitor the sounds of rare or important species of birds and animals, providing scientists

White's monitoring devices can detect illegal logging activity and send a text alert to authorities.

with a way to study the health of wildlife populations in a given area

in Brazil, Costa Rica, Ecuador, Romania, South Africa, Belize, Peru, the Philippines and the Indonesian island of Sumatra. “A really important element of what we do is work with local people, the ones who are protecting these areas, as they can have the biggest impact in fighting climate change,” he adds.

What's next for White: “Rainforest Connection technology has surpassed its proof-of-concept phase and has moved into expansion with over 60 new projects in the pipeline. The amount of land protected will be the equivalent of taking six million cars off the road, 400 million trees protected and 30 million tonnes of CO2 sequestered.”

White's petal-shaped solar panels are designed to catch the dappled sunlight in the jungle.

And it all started in a garage.

adding momentum to conservation. The sounds are live-streamed, creating a vast digital library that gives scientists raw acoustic data.

“We should be able to detect animals that don’t even make sounds.

Jaguars might not always be vocalizing, but birds and other animals around them are,” he says.

White and his nonprofit group, Rainforest Connection, have extensively tested forest-guardian technology with local communities

Use of the devices has expanded throughout the world.

14 LORING & CO. MAGAZINE

15 LORING & CO. MAGAZINE

A smart investment opportunity

Swiss Timepieces Four noted fine watch experts share their opinions on what to buy now RIGHT NOW, BUYING A NEW WATCH COULD BE ONE OF THE

Case in point: Patek Philippe’s Nautilus. Its original design, from

smartest investments around. It’s a purchase that can be worn, enjoyed

1976, with the rounded octagonal bezel, brought a certain elegance to

and even sold — eventually — at a nice profit. The prices paid at auction

the sport watch category that continues. “It is sought-after today,” Bou-

for vintage (ie, “pre-owned”) watches are breaking all records. Six figures,

tros contends. Another reason, besides its good looks: “It’s recogniza-

seven figures, even eight (as in $10

ble. That’s key to its appeal.” And it’s the key to any status symbol: a

million and up) are not uncommon.

design so distinctive it can be instantly identified.

Buying a new watch as a money-

Another classic that could make a good investment, Boutros main-

maker to sell later is becoming as

tains, is “Audemars Piguet’s latest reference of their Royal Oak, 15202,

shrewd an investment as snap-

and their Perpetual Calendar Royal Oak model.” These updates of “origi-

ping up a Lamborghini Miura, a Bir-

nal watches from the 1970s remain highly relevant in terms of style and

kin bag or a pair of Air Jordans.

the case shape.” The first Royal Oak shook up the industry with its

“It’s a good time to buy a

unique, signature octagonal bevel anchored with eight hexagonal

Paul Boutros

great watch,” says Paul Boutros, head of watches, Americas, for Phillips,

screws, and the novel grid pattern on its dial. “Its masculine aesthetic

arguably the global leader in watch auctions. “In times of uncertainty,

has stood the test of time; demand for these

people look for safe havens for their money. Right now conditions are

modern versions in boutiques proves that,”

favorable for putting money into hard assets as a hedge.” And a new

Boutros says. It’s a track record that

watch, just like gold, is one of the best hedges right now.

bodes well for the watch’s maintaining if

But not just any watch. Knowing which one to purchase now — one that might reap a huge reward if eventually sold — is a tricky busi-

not increasing its value in the future.

Boutros also thinks no one can go

ness. The heads of the watch departments at the world’s top auction

wrong buying a stainless steel Rolex.

houses are the likeliest to know, because their job is to evaluate, accept

“They are relevant for today’s lifestyle, as

and then sell watches that were once brand-new, and have, over time,

more people are dressing casual, whether on

become more valuable. These experts have the most informed advice

Zoom meetings or even at the office with busi-

on the best new watches to buy right now.

ness casual,” he says. “ Rolex’s Submariner, GMT-Master II and

When buying a new timepiece, Boutros advises that “blue chip

Rolex GMT-Master II

Daytona are graceful evolutions true to the originals that have been pro-

watches may be good investments” and suggests buyers “look for

duced continually to today.” They have proven to hold their appeal, and

classic, timeless styles from proven brands — they have enduring

their value.

value.” That’s especially true if they have been given exciting new upto-the-minute twists.

Another big fan of Rolex sports models is Richard Lopez, senior specialist for watches at Sotheby’s in New York. “They continue to be

16 LORING & CO. MAGAZINE

Rolex Oyster Perpetual Submariner

Patek Philippe Calatrava

Richard Lopez

popular among seasoned collectors as

steel and features a unique complication: the weekly calendar. The type-

well as new collectors just getting into

face that Patek used for this model is intended to resemble handwritten

the watch game.” Meaning, if you buy

characters, something that has not really been seen before.”

one now, you’re likely to find a collector

He singles out some other brands to in-

who will want to buy it from you in the fu-

vest in as well, zeroing in on “specific models

ture. Examples that Lopez believes will

that have the potential to hold or even grow

hold or increase their value include “the Steel Green Submariner ‘Hulk’,

in value.” From Tudor he recommends the

the Steel Ceramic Daytona Ref. 116500LN, Steel GMT Ceramic ‘Pepsi’

recently introduced Tudor Black Bay Fifty-

126710 BLRO and the Steel GMT Ceramic ‘Batman’ 126710BLNR.”

Eight Navy Blue. “Collectors love blue dials,

Steel models from other watch houses are good investments too, Lopez maintains. “Steel models by Patek Philippe and Audemars Piguet are extremely sought after and rare, yielding the highest returns,” he says. “Examples of

term winner. Even the original black-dialed Fifty-Eight is still a good potential variant.”

Tudor Black Bay 58

Rebecca Ross, Christie’s watch spe-

current Patek Philippe models to invest in in-

cialist in New York, says “rarity is a big factor” when buying a new watch

clude the Steel Aquanaut Ref. 5167, Steel

with long-term investment value in mind. “If there are fewer of the

Nautilus Ref. 5711 and Steel Calatrava Ref.

watches made, the watch will keep its resale value.” She singles out “the

5522. Audemars Piguet examples include

independent watchmaker F.P. Journe, which makes less than 900

the Steel Royal Oak on bracelet and Steel

watches per year, which compared to other brands is very low. F.P.

Royal Oak Chrono on bracelet.”

Journe is also having a significant moment right now with a number of

At the influential watch website Hodinkee, Brandon Frazin plays the same role as Patek Philippe Aquanaut

in my experience, and this could be a long-

his older watches, so I would not be surprised if some current models from the brand go up in the future.”

the pros at the auction houses. He is the

Ross also suggests looking for

vintage manager and must decide which watches to accept for sale,

“watches that are not run-of-the-mill pro-

and he knows which watches sell well. Frazin is another believer that

ductions, that have details others do

sports watches are good investments these days. As more people

not.” And keep all paperwork at the

are working from home, a business suit and tie are becoming things

point of purchase. “All modern watches

of the past.

should have their documentation, so Within the sports watch category,

make sure you keep the boxes and

Frazin put his faith in Rolex. He advises

papers.” Documentation increases the value of the watch down the

new purchasers to “consider the

line when it’s sold.

models most everyone is aware of,

Brandon Frazin

Rebecca Ross

More good advice, from Ross: “Look after the watch you buy.

including sport models like the Day-

Service it regularly, every three to five years, and change nothing. You

tona, the GMT-Master II, the Subma-

want all the parts, the case, the dial and the movement to be as original

riner and the Sea-Dweller.”

as possible.” Also, before purchasing any new watch, especially if it’s a

And he believes in another blue-chip industry leader, Patek Philippe.

possible investment, she points out, it’s important to educate yourself.

“Look for sport watches from other prestigious Swiss brands like Patek

Go to auctions, take a seat and read the catalogues. That’s a great way

Philippe, with the Nautilus and Aquanaut,” he advises. “And the Patek

to learn about the market, and it’s a lot of fun. You’re always welcome.”

Philippe Calatrava Ref. 5212. It's an interesting design that is cased in

And she advises, as do all the pros: Buy what you love.

18 LORING & CO. MAGAZINE

The

5

most expensive wristwatches ever sold at auction

The most expensive watch that ever changed hands at

collectors are those paid for watches at

auction was the one-off Patek Phillippe Grandmaster

regular auctions, and they’ve reached in-

Chime sold last year in Geneva for $31 million. The occa-

credible highs as well. The top prices

sion was the 2019 Only Watch auction, a charity event

ever paid for these timepieces should in-

run by Christies. Prices are always unusually high in the name of doing good. The prices that interest most

spire any enthusiast to buy a new one with the potential to sell later — and retire.

$17,752,500 $9,008,856 $5,937,500

Rolex Paul Newman Daytona, Phillips, New York 2017. Arguably the most famous timepiece in the world.

Patek Philippe World Time in 18K pink gold with double-signed dial, Christie's, Hong Kong 2019. One of only seven Ref. 2523 dual-crown world-time wristwatches believed to have been issued in pink gold — and only the fifth to be offered at auction.

The Unicorn: Rolex Cosmograph Daytona Ref. 6265 Phillips, Geneva 2018. Called the Unicorn because of its rarity, it is the only known white gold manual-winding Daytona ever produced.

$5,708,885

Patek Philippe18K gold perpetual calendar chronograph with moonphase, Christies, Geneva 2010.

Only one other single-signed example is known to exist.

$11,002,000

Patek Philippe Ref. 1518 perpetual calendar chronograph in stainless steel, Phillips, Geneva 2016. It is the first perpetual calendar with chronograph functions.

19 LORING & CO. MAGAZINE

TIMELESS

STYLE The Tudor Black Bay 58 is the ultimate dive watch

20 LORING & CO. MAGAZINE

Tudor dive watches have a heritage that the celebrated Swiss watch company continues to honor and elevate to this day DIVE WATCHES ARE SOME

more comfortable, wear-all-day

of the most popular watches

fit for many wrists.

sold today, most often to

Another feature of the Tudor

customers who will never

Black Bay 58 Navy Blue does

wear them with a wetsuit.

double duty as well; its strap

But the watch’s combination

also offers retro appeal and

of handsome good looks,

wear-today comfort. There are

durable design and extreme-

three options: One is a riveted

ly accurate movement

steel bracelet, with removable

appeals to everyone. And in

links that allow for a personal-

the category of dive watch-

ized fit. Another is a leather

es, Tudor is one of the lead-

strap, made from a material so

ers — always was, always

soft it’s been said to feel like

will be.

flannel. And the choice that’s a Tudor signature is a fabric

Tudor dive watches have a heritage that the celebrat-

Black Bay Dark

strap made in the St. Ètienne

ed Swiss watch company continues to honor and elevate to this day

region of France by a century-old family business using traditional

with new renditions that respect their illustrious past but bring them

jacquard shuttle looms. In Tudor blue, of course.

up to the minute. The latest version, introduced this year, is the

The new watch features other Tudor signatures, such as

Tudor Black Bay 58 Navy Blue. The first Black Bay 58 was intro-

“snowflake” hands with angular tips and a distinctive large winding

duced at Baselworld in 2018; the big news in today’s rendition is the

crown. But there’s big news, too: a brand-new movement. The cali-

color. The blue. But not just any blue. Tudor blue.

bre MT5402 is certified as a chronometer by the Swiss Official

Tudor introduced its first dive watch, waterproofed to 200 meters,

Chronometer Testing Institute (COSC), and was made in-house, as

or 660 feet, in 1958 (hence the homage in the name of the current

all Tudor movements have been since the company started making

model). Some 10 years later, the company gave it a blue dial and

their own in 2015.

bezel. The French Navy loved the result, and throughout the 1970s la Marine Française commissioned their dive watches in what came to

The Black Bay has become so popular that in recent years Tudor has introduced several versions of it: The Black Bay Dark features a steel case finished with black PVD-

be known as Tudor blue.

Today’s watch pays its respects to Tudor’s renowned past in other ways as well. The case measures 39 mm in diameter, the scale used in the 1950s. This move is making critics and customers happy because the new sizing delivers a handsome vintage look and is a

treated coating, adapted from technology developed by NASA for space programs.

The Black Bay 32, 36 and 41 offer a choice of dials — lacquered black, deep blue or satin-brushed champagne.

21 LORING & CO. MAGAZINE

The Black Bay has proven to be so popular in recent years that Tudor has launched several versions of it.

The Black Bay Bronze features a 43 mm case in bronze, recalling the brass used in old ships and diving equipment.

The Black Bay GMT, with its luminescent hour markers set against a black dial, clocks local time as well as that in two other time zones.

which Tudor had been supplying with dive watches since the late 1950s. The project was so hush-hush it had a code name: Commando.

There’s a Tudor Black Bay for everyone. As the reviews are coming in, the latest introduction in this long line of options, the

The Black Bay P01, which stands for prototype 1, is modeled on

Black Bay Fifty Eight Navy Blue, just may turn out to become its

a 1967 project to develop a new watch for the United States Navy,

most popular.

Black Bay 32, 36 and 41

Black Bay Bronze

Black Bay GMT

Black Bay P01 22 LORING & CO. MAGAZINE

Pearls — with a twist Crisp, clean and timeless, pearls will pop on a video conference call, and they brighten the complection. You can't go wrong with a classic strand, but also look for fresh and fun layering necklaces and statement earrings.

STYLE STAPLES Jewelry you can wear every day

A statement pendant or locket A nameplate necklace is a classic, but also look for shapes and designs that reflect your personality — something that will mix and match with other necklaces you own.

Whether you want to punch up a little black dress or elevate a turtleneck or tee, there Oversize chain necklaces Chain link necklaces, also in pumped-up sizes, have the air of effortless cool. Wear one alone — or pile on a couple for a power look.

are certain go-to pieces that are as easy and effortless to slip on as a pair of jeans. “And with more people working from home and Zoom meetings on the rise, accessorizing is more important than ever,” says Jessica Richards, the jewelrytrendspotter who picked these everyday-wearable trends.

Elegant gold hoops Hoops are always in fashion, and they go with just about everything. What's new about them is that they're getting bigger and bolder for an extra measure of casual chic.

Pastel hues Pretty gemstones — pink, blue, green, lavender — make us happy.

They offer a giant dose of optimism and joy.

The future heirloom Be it an iconic bracelet or a luxury watch, you know it will not only last forever and go with everything you own, but you may even want to pass it down one day to a loved one.

23 LORING & CO. MAGAZINE

Luxury SUVS OUR 2021 PREVIEW

Bentley Bentayga Hybrid

24 LORING & CO. MAGAZINE

Luxury SUV's are bigger, faster and some come with all the comforts of a private jet

Lamborghini Urus THE SUV SCRAMBLED UP 5,000 FEET AND AROUND 164 CORNERS AVERAGING 66 MPH to the top of historic Pikes Peak in 10 minutes and 49 seconds. A world’s record for any vehicle in that climb.

And the SUV was a Bentley. A what?

Yes, the Bentley Bentayaga, one of the world’s most expensive SUV’s with a starting price of $300,000, a top end of 190 mph on the highway and a head-turning 3.8 seconds in 0-60 with an optional 626-horsepower 12-cylinder engine Bentley is just one of the big-name, top-dollar luxury-car manufacturers turning out SUV’s that 25 LORING & CO. MAGAZINE

SUV’s are outselling sedans two to one, with all the luxury add-ons and safety features of sedans plus more cargo space and better views. with new technology can jam up and down hills, win highway drag

bounce a bit while drinking a glass of Champagne from the $47,000

races or coddle you as you drive around town in extreme luxury and

optional cooler, while sitting in specially padded $27,000 “sanctuary

with the ultimate in safety add-ons.

seats” in the back.

Luxury SUVs offer an extraordinary driving experience combined with more cargo space and better views. That’s why SUVs are out-

The wildest and crazy-cool looking SUV is the $222,004, 664 hp Lamborghini Urus in outrageous orange paint it calls Arancio Borealis

selling sedans two to one.

Seats that massage, heat and ventilate with 22-way power set-

Lamborghini Urus

tings (an extra $11,855 on the Bentley) along with 20-speaker sound

ENGINE:

POWER:

TOP SPEED:

systems, 10.2-inch touch-screen infotainment displays, self-parking,

2.7-liter, turbocharged V-8

654 hp

170 MPH

0-60:

BASE PRICE:

3.8 sec

$222,004

Bluetooth, GPS navigation and a multitude of safety features like pedestrian detectors that will slam on the brakes if you don’t — are all available with the top-end models. Some have hybrid assistance. All that, in addition to the extra bulk, typically means mileage of between

Bentley Bentayga Hybrid ENGINE:

POWER:

TOP SPEED:

4.0-liter, turbocharged V-8

641 hp

190 MPH

0-60:

BASE PRICE:

3.2 sec

$300,000

with a matching interior. It still looks like a Lambo racing sedan, very sleek and mean, but it can tow 7,000 pounds and it can equal Bentley’s 190 mph top end. Plus it has an adjustable suspension and can raise or lower itself by six inches to accommodate terrain.

Another luxurious and very popular all-terrain SUV is the Mercedes AMG G63, starting at $259,000. It has three different locking differentials and a low-range gear, which means it can tackle any 12 and 20 per gallon, so prepare to open your wallet at the gas tank.

And if the Bentley Bentayaga doesn’t suit you, how about a Rolls Royce Black Badge Cullinan? It’s named for the largest diamond (3,107.6 carats) ever discovered, found in 1906 in South Africa, now

steep grade very, very slowly, or turn that off and zip from zero to 60 in under five seconds while all five of you are sitting in contoured Nappa leather seats and enjoying a massage.

And opt for the roof with obsidian black metallic paint for $1,100

safely locked up in the Tower of London and worth about $2 billion.

extra, and a matching obsidian black ring around the spare-tire

The Rolls has a bare-bones starting price of $382,000.

housing on the back for an extra $1,000, and a carbon fiber engine

It’s not as fast as the Bentley with a top end of only 155, but with a plusher ride and almost equal off-road capability if you’re willing to

cover for $1,500. When you lift the hood, this Mercedes should look serious.

26 LORING & CO. MAGAZINE

machine, a PlayStation and the most luxurious seating imaginable.

Mercedes AMG G63

But it is so heavy — over nineteen feet long and eight feet wide — the

ENGINE:

POWER:

TOP SPEED:

4.0-liter, turbocharged V-8

550 hp

150 MPH

0-60:

BASE PRICE:

4.8 sec

$259,000

top end is a meager 87 miles an hour.

If you’re not worried about getting attacked by an infantry platoon, you can always settle for offerings by Maserati, Ford, Porsche, BMWX7 and just about every other manufacturer. But most do not have much standard off-road capability and are typically used around town or for long-distance travel. For example, the $100,000+BMWX7 needs a $1,650 optional off-road package with skid plates and

Karlman King TOP SPEED:

ENGINE:

POWER:

6.8-liter, twinturbocharged V-10

360 Hp

87 MPH

0-60:

BASE PRICE:

N/A

$1.9 million

There are many other SUV’s to choose from, far less expensive than the ultra-luxurious and super-fast, among them the all-American Jeep, nastier-looking than ever in the $43,895 Gladiator Rubicon model, which is bigger than the Wrangler you’re used to seeing. It comes with extra storage capacity and an optional three-piece $2,295 body-paint-coordinated hard top. An unusual feature is the $595 forward-facing camera so on the 8.4-inch touch screen, you can see objects on the trail or forest floor as close as two feet in front of you and provide a view of distance as well.

And how about going camping with your SUV? Hit the trail in a $72,895 Ford King Ranch with an optional $369 9-foot by 9-foot

push-button driving modes labeled sand, gravel, rocks and snow.

Sportz Tent by Napier that attaches to the cargo rear and sleeps four

Now that is entitled luxury.

to six people. It has a waterproof floor, lantern holder, two entrance

And here’s an unexpected entry.

doors, storm flaps and mesh windows. And the SUV seats eight,

Ferrari. Yes, the renowned racecar and hypersport manufacturer

with power folding heated rear seats.

will be coming out with an SUV, the Purosangue, in 2022. Specifica-

Meanwhile, if you want to buy the most expensive SUV ever

tions have not been announced, but the word is it’s likely to have a

made, the $1.9 million Karlmann King, designed in China and assem-

turbocharged V-8 with hybrid assistance and to pump out around

bled almost completely by hand in Italy can be ordered from the

650 horsepower.

company, but only about 10 have been made so far. It’s a beast at

Starting price is estimated at $350,000.

10,580 pounds, has optional bulletproofing, a refrigerator, a coffee

Get in line.

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Holiday

GIFT Guide

THE LORING & CO.TEAM shares their personal picks for the best pieces to give the jewelry and watch lovers on your list.

Classic Diamond Cross Pendant from Roberto Coin

Classic Diamond Studs from Rahaminov.

“This is one of our most popular

“This fresh and innovative take on the classic diamond stud is

gift selections. It's beautiful — the

sure to be as comfortable as it is stylish.“ -Trent

diamonds may be small, but they shine from across the room because of the high quality. I love how the diamonds sparkle! So subtle, but beautiful.”

-Rick Tudor Black Bay 58 ”I chose the new 39mm Tudor Black Bay 58 with the matt blue

Kwiat Ashooka Cut Diamond and Sapphire Ring

Bezel and blue dial because it fea-

“I love the vintage vibes brought out by the french-cut sapphires. It

tures a new in-house movement

reminds me of a piece that could have been passed down for gen-

with a 70 power reserve, a vintage,

erations with the confidence of being new and made with Kwiat

throwback look and a size that

craftsmanship and quality.”

-Caitlin

appeals to more watch enthusiasts than its larger counterparts. This timepiece offers maximum value on your investment.”

-Cory

Armenta Old World Midnight, Gold and Diamond Hoop Earrings “The Armenta Hoop is my go-too earring. One that will go to work, one that will go on an evening out in that LBD but also with a crisp white blouse and jeans for a night out with the girls. In blackened sterling with a touch of gold or in all-gold – this gift will be a favorite under the Christmas tree.”

-Kathy

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The Magic Ring from Rahaminov “speaks for itself. Featuring a fiery oval center diamond perfectly paired with a halo of scintillating round brilliant cut diamonds, this ring commands attention. In my 16 years in the business, this is the prettiest engagement ring de-

Roberto Coin Venetian Princess Flower Bangle “What I love about Roberto Coin is the ability to wear the Venetian

sign I have seen. In fact, I love this ring so much I chose it for my wife.“

-Jason

Princess Flower Collection from day to night, dressed up or dressed down. The pieces are exceptionally crafted in 18K gold with diamonds.

I love to stack my Venetian Princess Flower bangle.”

-Eleanor

Rolex Submariner “Rolex makes the most durable and reliable watches on the planet.

Rolex watches have been to the bottom of the ocean and to the top of Everest. Despite all their accomplishments, Rolex is never satisfied.

Marco Bicego Marrakech Onde Yellow Gold and Diamond Pendant

Their lab does everything to improve

“This delicately textured coil pendant necklace is

these watches, to make each year

crafted of a polished 18K yellow gold accented with

better than the last.”

a single diamond. It’s subtle but at the same time

-Curt

makes an impressive statement”

-Jody

David Yurman Starburst Pendant Necklace “David Yurman’s Starburst is one of my favorite collections! I love the attention to detail and the touch of diamonds that pays tribute to the Yurman’s love of the fireworks over the Eiffel Tower.“

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-Amanda

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All diamonds from our Rahaminov Collection

31 LORING & CO. MAGAZINE

Natural WONDERS Fresh new takes on pearls Strands and studs will never go out of style, but this timeless accessory has taken a fashion-forward leap with designers creating fun, playful, even sexy styles that are attracting a new generation of pearl lovers. In other words, pearls are suddenly hip and cool — and their shimmery luster can shine for special occasions and just as easily put the polish on everyday outfits.

32 LORING & CO. MAGAZINE

POWER

PEARLS MagniďŹ cent South Sea Pearls and Hand-Carved Burmese White Jadeite. Luxurious... provocative...one of a kind.

L O R I N G & C O. J E W E L E R S D I A M O N D B U Y I N G G U I D E

SEARCHING for the one?

Here's how to find the perfect diamond you'll love and treasure forever

Asscher

ROUND The most popular cut with the most intense sparkle.

Popularized in the 1920s, this stepcut diamond has a deco feel.

Pear A combo of a round and marquise shape with a tapered point; a Vshaped prong protects the point.

Marquise The long, narrow shape maximizes the size of the stone and slims the finger.

Oval Having a greater surface area than a round diamond, it appears larger to the eye.

Princess The pyramid shape makes a stone look larger than it is.

Cushion

Emerald

A square with rounded corners, this cut has been beloved for nearly 200 years.

Radiant A square or rectangle shaped stone cut with 70 facets to enhance its brilliance.

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The rectangular cut has several rows of stepped facets, creating a sparkling “hall of mirrors� effect.

We've created a user-friendly guide to engagement ring shopping so you can study up on everything before you even come into our store.

Know the basics

A bigger carat number doesn't necessarily mean a better ring.

Different settings can affect the appearance. For instance, encircling a center stone with a halo of smaller stones can make it look larger and enhance the overall sparkle.

s

Diamonds are typically assessed by the "4 C's", an industry grading system that measures the beauty and value of each stone.

Here's a quick de-coder.

Select your diamond setting

A channel set ring, where diamond accents are securely set between two strips of precious metal, offers maximum sparkle and a gorgeous effect.

CUT

A twisted shank setting looks like two intertwined bands and teams nicely with round, oval and cushion cut diamonds.

s

s

The cut of a diamond refers to the angles and proportions of a stone, not the shape. These elements determine how much light the stone captures and reflects, giving a diamond its sparkle. Cuts are graded from excellent to poor. Tip: Typically the more facets, the more sparkle.

CLARITY s

Even a perfect looking stone can have imperfections (also called inclusions ). Most of these tiny flecks were formed in the diamond millions of years ago and are nearly impossible to see without the help of a microscope. The fewer inclusions, the higher the price of the stone. Tip: Choosing a brilliant cut stone with many facets can hide its imperfections; step cuts can make them more obvious.

There are split shank settings for every diamond shape. It pairs especially well with round and Asscher cuts.

PavĂŠ settings with small diamonds set closely together on the band make the center stone shine brighter and look larger.

s

COLOR

s

Diamonds come in a spectrum of shades, graded on a scale from D (colorless and the most expensive) to Z (yellow or brownish). Diamonds also come in colors like pink and yellow, which are known as fancy diamonds. In general, a near colorless white diamond is a safe bet. Tip: A yellow or rose gold setting will make any yellowness in the stone seem less noticeable.

Accent diamonds form a chevronshaped band above this round center stone. Chevron settings also shimmer beautifully with round, pear and marquise diamond cuts.

Three stone rings have even more wow power with halo settings.

35 LORING & CO. MAGAZINE

s

CARAT It's not a measurement of size, but of the weight of the stone. The average diamond engagement ring is one carat or 200 milligrams, about the size of an aspirin. Tip: By choosing a 0.9-carat stone instead of one carat (or 1.9 carats versus two), you can save significantly and the visual difference is barely detectable. You can put the savings into a higher grade stone or a more elaborate setting.

Unlike a traditional halo, a hidden halo of pavĂŠ diamonds sits just beneath the stone in this setting, making this emerald cut diamond seem to shine from within.

SO CLASSIC. SO ESSENTIAL. SO KWIAT.

111 years of craftsmanship & design