James Free Fall/Winter 2021: Cincinnati

FALL/WINTER 2021

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NAVARRA COLLECTION

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CONTENTS 54

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ONE CARD FITS ALL! Your pocket-sized James Free

ELECTRIC AVENUE

Once a market rarity, the new Tesla Roadster is still a bolt of lightning—catch it if you can!

F/W 2021

IF YOU CAN DREAM IT, WE CAN DO IT

At James Free Jewelers, our award-winning designers will assist you in bringing your design from sketch to reality.

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DREAM DESIGNS

PERFECT TIMING

Adorn yourself with luxurious threads of gold from the Marco Bicego collection.

We invite you to experience our curated collection of certified pre-owned Swiss timepieces.

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HOLIDAY HOURS 2021

AT YOUR SERVICE

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Service has always been the heartbeat of James Free Jewelers.

LET’S CONNECT

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Join the James Free Jewelers online community.

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ALL THAT GLITTERS

Mix and match your diamonds for a glamorous look to take you effortlessly from desk to dinner.

GOLDEN OPPORTUNITY

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There is more than one way to mix it up with this season’s layered look.

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ROCK STARS

From timeless white diamonds to precious colored stones, these stunning bands pack a stylish punch.

PEARLS OF WISDOM

Classic jewels by Mikimoto offer timeless styles.

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ONE MOMENT, ONE LOVE Share your love with a MOMENTI ring.

ONES TO WATCH

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Every guy on the go needs— and deserves—a sophisticated statement-maker on his wrist.

MAKING IT HAPPEN BEAUTIFULLY A gifted event planner, Natalie Rice delivers stress-free occasions designed to delight.

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SIX DEGREES OF COGNAC Why is this spirit so hip? Exacting production and ageing standards tell part of the tale.

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THAIS TO THE PAST

Founded in 1296, Chiang Mai has almost as many temples as the bigger Bangkok—and much more serenity.

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WISH LIST Surprise every person on your shopping list.

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BRILLIANT CREATIONS

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PHILANTHROPY

Anything is possible if we work together toward creating a brighter future for everyone that lives and works here in Ohio.

Discover the joy of a fine jewelry collection that reflects your personality.

JAMES FREE

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Custom Design

IF YOU CAN DREAM IT, WE CAN DO IT.

At James Free Jewelers, we are only satisfied when you are. So, if you’re not finding what you have in mind, our award-winning designers will assist you in bringing your designs from sketch to reality.

JAMES FREE is published by James Free Jewelers, 3100 Far Hills Ave, Dayton, OH 45429. Copyright © 2021. All rights reserved.

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Designers

DREAM DESIGNS

Adorn yourself with luxurious threads of gold from the Marco Bicego collection.

From top: Marco Bicego 18K Yellow Gold and Diamond Marrakech Onde Hand-Twisted Earrings; Marco Bicego 18K Yellow Gold and Diamond Flower Marrakech Onde Lariat Necklace; Marco Bicego 18K Yellow Gold and Diamond Marrakech Onde HandTwisted Ring; Marco Bicego 18K Yellow Gold and Diamond Marrakech Onde Hand-Twisted Bangle

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Holiday Hours

HOLIDAY HOURS 2021 STARTING DEC 13 Monday–Friday 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.

Saturday 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Sunday, Dec. 12 Noon to 5 p.m.

Sunday, Dec. 19 Noon to 5 p.m.

SHIPPING Next day shipping available.

COMPLIMENTARY GIFT WRAP Any purchase from James Free Jewelers can be beautifully wrapped.

CINCINNATI, OH, USA 9554 Main St. Montgomery, OH 45242 513.793.0177 888.844.0133

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DAYTON, OH, USA 3100 Far Hills Ave. Dayton, OH 45429 937.298.0171 800.647.0031

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Follow Us

LET’S CONNECT @JAMESFREEJEWELERS

Join the James Free Jewelers online community and be the first to know about new designs, special in-store events and more!

FOLLOW US @JAMESFREEJEWELERS AND TAG US IN YOUR POSTS USING #MYJAMESFREE

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Fine Jewelry

GOLDEN OPPORTUNITY There is more than one way to mix it up with this season’s layered look.

RINGS, from top: Marco Bicego 18K White Gold Jaipur Diamond Five-Row Ring; LuxeOut Quattro Black Diamond Stackable Ring; James Free Collection 18K Yellow Gold Three-Sided Seven-Row Diamond Band; Mémoire 18K Yellow, White and Rose Gold Diamond Pavé Rolling Ring; Sloane Street 18K Yellow Gold London Blue Topaz & Blue Diamond Ring; Sloane Street 18K Yellow Gold London Blue Topaz and Blue Diamond 2 Row Ring NECKLACES, from left: James Free Collection Open Link 14K Yellow Gold Necklace; James Free Collection Diamond Station Necklace; Marco Bicego 18K Yellow Gold Lucia Small Link Chain Necklace BRACELETS, from left: James Free Collection 14K Yellow Gold Panther Style Bracelet; Roberto Coin 18K Yellow Gold Oval Link Bracelet with Diamond Accent; James Free Collection 14K Yellow Gold Open Link Bracelet; James Free Collection 14K Brushed Yellow Gold Reversible Bracelet

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Designers

PEARLS OF WISDOM Whether you’re dressed to the nines or going casual, these classic jewels

by Mikimoto offer timeless styles to every look.

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From top: Mikimoto 18K White Gold Akoya Cultured Pearl 32” Strand Necklace; Mikimoto 18K White Gold Akoya Double Pearl Strand 16-24” Necklace with Diamond Infinity Clasp; Mikimoto18K White Gold Akoya Cultured Pearl Graduated 18” Double Strand Necklace; Mikimoto18K White Gold, Diamond & 5.5-5.9MM Akoya Cultured Pearl Convertible Choker/Wrap Bracelet; Mikimoto 18K White Gold Akoya Cultured Pearl Three-Strand Bracelet with Diamond Clasp; Mikimoto 18K White Gold, Diamond & 11MM South Sea Cultured Pearl Earrings JAMES FREE

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Timepieces

ONES TO WATCH

Every guy on the go needs—and deserves— a sophisticated statement-maker on his wrist.

From top: Breitling Super Chronomat B01 44 (AB0136161C1S1); Tudor Black Bay GMT (M79830RB-0001); Patek Philippe 18K Rose Gold Complications (7150/250R-001); Tag Heuer Aquaracer GMT (WAY201T.BA0297); Omega Speedmaster Racing Co-axial Master Chronometer Chronograph (329.30.44.51.04.001)

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Our Community

PHILANTHROPY “We make a living by what we get, but we make a life by what we give.” —Winston Churchill James Free has been locally owned since 1940, and giving back to the communities that support us has always been part of our fabric. Anything is possible if we work together toward creating a brighter future for everyone that lives and works here.

We make it our personal mission to spread support and positivity through our communities. Whether you are giving time, money or resources, we know how important charity is. The world needs more of it, and we are humbled to be able to do our part in Southwest Ohio.

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Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation Gala: From funding innovative research to advocating for government action to providing a support structure for our community, no other organization does more to fight type 1 diabetes (T1D) than JDRF. Oversized check: James Free is honored to give back to those who support our community. If in need of a battery replacement for your timepiece, James Free Jewelers invites you to visit one of its stores and support tri-state charitable organizations. 100 percent of the profits from each simple battery exchange goes to a local charity.

Pink Ribbon Girls Ignite Event: Pink Ribbon Girls provides meals, transportation, housecleaning and peer support FREE of charge to breast cancer or gynecological cancer patients at their time of greatest need.

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Profile

BRILLIANT CREATIONS Discover the joy of a fine jewelry collection that reflects your individuality.

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Opposite page, from top: James Free Collection In and Out Diamond Hoops, Roberto Coin 18K Yellow Gold and Diamond Navarra Wide Link Ring; Roberto Coin 18K Yellow Gold and Diamond Obelisco Flexible Ring; Roberto Coin 18K Yellow Gold Venetian Princess Double Medallion Small Flower Necklace; Roberto Coin 18K Yellow Gold and Diamond Navarra Bangle; Roberto Coin 18K Yellow Gold and Diamond Pro Classic Bangle

“What to expect from Roberto Coin brand in the future is to continuously surprise in creating jewels that have never been realized before.

Innovate creativity every day as I used to say, will let me live forever because creativity is endless, as I always use to say.

I can’t reveal what I am working on but one thing is for sure: I always think that James Free will be one of the first ones to discover my new collections.

Venice wil be the heart of the future designs as well as Nature, which will come back stronger than ever. And finally the romanticism of Love in Verona, which will expand in new versions. I will spend a special attention to the younger generations who are looking for something that suits their age.

During these days Taraji P. Henson and Cynthia Erivo are wearing our pieces at the red carpets in U.S., I am very happy to see how they interpret our Cento creations. But to be honest I feel that my clients are my celebrities.”

Roberto Coin Italy 2021

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Gift Guide Roberto Coin 18K RoseGold, Sapphire, Diamond & Mother-of-Pearl Love in Verona Rainbow Stud Earrings $5,500

John Hardy Sterling Silver & Blue Sapphire Classic Chain Hammered Pendant on 2.5MM Mini Chain Necklace $995

WISH LIST

Surprise every person on your list (or just treat yourself) to a present they didn’t know they wanted—until now!

EF Collection 14K White Gold Diamond Marley Mini Huggie Earrings $995

FOPE 18K Yellow Gold and Diamond Flex’it Bracelet $7,670 Charles Krypell 18K Yellow Gold & Diamond Air Triple-Row Ring $9,990

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Sloane Street 18K Yellow Gold & Diamond Link Huggie Earrings $1,785 Mikimoto 18K White Gold, Diamond & 5MM Cultured Pearl Love Pendant Necklace $1,450

Mikimoto 18K White Gold Akoya Cultured Pearl Convertible Drop Earrings $2,250

Sloane Street 18K Yellow Gold Blue Diamond & London Blue Topaz Open Marquis Earrings $5,515 Kismet By Milka 14K Rose & Yellow Gold & Diamond Six Arrows Arc Earring $1,570

Mémoire 18K Rose, Yellow & White Gold & Diamond 3-Row Rolling Ring $4,695

Marco Bicego 18K Yellow Gold & Diamond Marrakech Onde Hand-Twisted Bangle $2,070

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Gift Guide

Gucci Sterling Silver Turquoise Enamel Interlocking G 6MM Ring $270

EF Collection 14K Yellow Gold MultiFaceted Diamond Mini Bar Necklace $895

James Free Collection Charm Gold Necklace $1,280

Gucci 18K Yellow Gold Link to Love 3MM Ring $890

James Free Collection White Gold and Diamond Baguette Link Bracelet $1,195

John Hardy Sterling Silver & Blue Sapphire Classic Chain Twisted Hammered Kick Cuff $1,395

FOPE 18K Yellow Gold and Diamond Flex’it Earrings $5,515

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James Free Collection Diamond and Gold Link Necklace $4,980

Kismet By Milka 14K Rose & Yellow Gold & Diamond Single Row Arrow Ring $1,370

Marco Bicego 18K Yellow Gold & Diamond Marrakech Onde Hand-Twisted Earrings $905

James Free Collection Rose Gold and Diamond Evil Eye Bracelet $1,195

Roberto Coin 18K Rose Gold & Diamond 6MM Obelisco Flexible Bangle $7,900

Roberto Coin 18K Yellow Gold & Diamond Navarra Link Ring $1,990

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Travel

THAIS TO THE PAST

Founded in 1296, Chiang Mai has almost as many temples as the bigger Bangkok—and much more serenity. By Everett Potter

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This page, clockwise from top left: Landmark pagodas Noppamethanedol and Noppapol Phumsiri sit at the peak of Doi Inthanon mountain, a national park in Chiang Mai; teenage girls in traditional local fashion prepare for a cultural dance performance; Chiang Mai’s famed Lantern Festival, held every November, symbolizes new beginnings and good luck; a golden statue stands guard outside of Wat Pho, a Buddhist temple complex in Bangkok; khao soi egg noodle soup is a spicy dish found throughout northern Thailand. Opposite: A monk prays at a Buddha statue.

There’s no denying the exotic allure of Bangkok, Thailand’s capital, with its temples, street food and dense carnival of daily life. But the constant chaos of this city of eight million inhabitants and street-clogging traffic

tainous surroundings, less oppressively hot than Bangkok. The fact that

can easily overwhelm and exhaust even the most urban-savvy Western

the old part is enclosed by a moat gives it a medieval feel (Chiang Mai was

traveler. After a few days, the classic respite from bustling Bangkok is to

founded in 1296), as do the monks who live at the many temples, such as

head south to the beach resorts in Phuket or Ko Samui. But for all their

Wat Phra Singh and Wat Chiang Man, graciously accepting alms in their

sand, tranquil water and beauty, these spots are often overrun with hordes

saffron-colored robes. I have returned on every visit to Wat Umong, which is

of European and Australian vacationers.

a park-like collection of temples set among lakes and semi-hidden Buddhist

My sage advice: After a few days in Bangkok, don’t go south with the bronzing crowds; head north instead to the mountains and the rainforest and the city

statues in grottoes, which offers up a wonderful air of mystery.

Then there is the food of Chiang Mai. The city’s restaurants and markets have

of Chiang Mai. Here in the homeland of the Asian elephant, close to the borders

arguably the best food in this nation famed for its cuisine. It’s available in street

with Myanmar and Laos, is a culturally rich and colorful city of 200,000, in a

stalls and night markets and in a bevy of casual outdoor restaurants under colorful

densely forested landscape ringed by mountains.

lantern light. The intoxicating smell of spices and herbs permeates the air.

Chiang Mai is about an hour’s flight north of Bangkok and I first set foot here

When I returned to Chiang Mai in the mid-’90s, all of these aspects of

back in 1986, when it was a sleepy provincial capital, a place where samlors—

daily life remained powerful even as the city had grown. There was also the

bicycle-powered rickshaws—and strolling were the best ways to get around. A

new Four Seasons Hotel Chiang Mai to explore then, an enchanting series

couple of bland modern hotels stood out in a cityscape still laden with hippie-

of pavilions suspended over rice paddies and one of the most romantic and

infused guesthouses. It was a backpacker’s haven, and the main attractions were

alluring hotels I had ever stayed at. The eatery’s Southeast Asian glamour was

the nearby elephants, the astonishingly beautiful golden-spired temples—nearly

enhanced by meeting David Bouley, the star New York chef, at a time when

as many as in the far larger Bangkok—and interactions with the local tribespeople,

the concept of star chef was nascent. He was doing a guest chef stint at the

such as the Hmong, attired in their brightly colored tribal wear.

property for a couple of weeks, and over the smoke of his après-dinner cigar,

This city is still ideally explored by foot and samlor and, given its moun-

we talked food. Chiang Mai is one of the foodiest places on the planet, and Bouley made it clear that he was really there to learn.

Dozens of dishes use local herbs and spices, and foremost is larb, a

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This page, clockwise from top left: A blend of Colonial and Thai décor adorns each room at the Dhara Dhevi Chiang Mai Resort; sun shines through the morning mist in northern Thailand; a street artist paints an intricate pattern on an umbrella; lanterns are arranged for Chiang Mai’s annual festival; a trio of rescued elephants walks freely in Doi Inthanon National Park. Opposite: The grounds of the Dhara Dhevi resort feature two outdoor swimming pools, a spa and a shopping center.

ground meat dish with mint and spices, som tam (raw papaya salad) and sua ue, a grilled sausage with lemongrass as well as the ubiquitous khao niao, or sticky rice. Go for gai yang (grilled chicken) with a spicy peanut

outside the city proper. There is so much art in newly opened galleries in the

sauce or the local barbecue chicken dish kai yang in tamarind sauce. On

city that a free art map is an essential guide for scoping it out. The Night Bazaar,

offer everywhere there’s also khao soi, a Chiang Mai coconut curry soup

which has been around for decades, is a shopping extravaganza of stalls where

made with noodles and either chicken or beef broth, spiked with lime and

successful haggling is invariably followed with indulging in street food.

as many chilis as you can tolerate.

On my most recent visit, I discovered that the lodging choices had magnified,

Trekking companies have long had a place in Chiang Mai, but now there are more ethically minded ones, such as Green Trails, which can organize

as had the city itself, but the essence of Chiang Mai remains as alluring as ever. I

rafting and ziplining tours as well as overnight visits with hill tribes. The

still got around on samlors, still inhaled an intoxicating mix of spices and cooking,

rainforest and mountains mean that there are ample hiking opportunities,

and still found the slow pace a welcome relief after Bangkok.

with both short and long walks to see waterfalls and Asian elephants. The

While the Four Seasons remains an icon, it’s also 30 minutes outside of the city.

Elephant Nature Park, about an hour outside the city, was founded by Lek

The temple-like Dhara Dhevi Chiang Mai and the boutique 137 Pillars House

Chailert, a pioneering elephant conservationist. The 200-acre park has been

are good choices. My newfound favorite, however, is Anantara Chiang Mai

rescuing elephants since the 1990s and is considered one of the best examples

Resort, overlooking the Ping River in the heart of the city. Housed in the former

of an ethical sanctuary in the country.

British consulate, it’s in a modernist compound with reflecting pools. It feels like

One place that continues to draw me back is Wat Phra That Doi Suthep. This

an oasis in the city, just a few minutes’ walk from downtown. It also offers some of

is the city’s main temple, on a lofty perch that is reached by climbing the 309 steps

the best high-end Thai food, refreshing cocktails and anticipatory service that I’ve

of the so-called Naga Serpent Staircase. It can be exhausting in the heat of the

ever experienced in Asia.

Chiang Mai has long been the best place in Thailand to buy crafts and to

day, but you do feel virtuous on making the ascent, and there’s a bird’s-eye view of Chiang Mai and the steamy jungle-clad mountains of the countryside. Even at

watch artisans at work. While they can be found throughout the city, nowadays

this height, you can smell the food in the air, marvel at the flowers and watch the

dedicated connoisseurs head to the Baan Kang Wat artisan village, set in a forest

saffron-robed monks going about their duties. More than three decades after I first went to Thailand for a taste of the exotic, it’s delightful to report that Chiang Mai is still enchanting.

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Spirits

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SIX DEGREES OF COGNAC

Why is this spirit so hip? Exacting production and ageing standards tell part of the tale.

Crime novelist Mickey Spillane had a ready

By Harry Dowden

reason why his fictional hero, detective Mike Hammer, so often drank beer: “Because I

90 percent Ugni Blanc varietal) that must age

can’t spell cognac.” But today pop culture

for a minimum of two years in oak (Limou-

has discovered the spirit, orthography be

sin or Tronçais only, s’il vous plaît). The six

damned. Cognac is one of the most popular

blends on the following pages rest for much,

sips among the most influential stars. Ap-

much longer, however. A “young” cognac is

preciating a fine glass of XO is a sure sign of

still a delectable and smooth experience, but

sophistication and taste, and its authenticity

age brings the elixir to another level. Kick

and no-compromises production are a big

back with a snifter and the things you enjoy

part of its appeal.

most in life—you may not be jet-setting in

Cognac is a complex beverage with a 500year history, and it takes its name from the area in southwest France where it is made

a G6 like some of cognac’s biggest fans, but you’ll feel on top of the world.

(A quick note on nomenclature: Until

under a set of strict guidelines. Brandies can

only last year, for a cognac to be deemed

be produced all over, but only those from

XO—extra old—required that the young-

Cognac itself may bear that moniker. Blends

est blend component have remained in oak

are composed of various eaux-de-vie (“waters

for six years. But that minimum was raised

of life”), twice copper-distilled wine (at least

to 10 years—cognacs with threads below that age now receive the Napoléon grade, the next one down.)

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Spirits

LOUIS XIII

Beloved by iconic singer Rihanna, Louis XIII is one of the most exceptional cognacs available. One hundred percent of the wines distilled for this blend are from grapes grown in the Grande Champagne cru, the premier subsection of six in the region whose harvests can be tapped for the beverage.

Each bottle of Louis XIII contains 1,200 blend components, meticulously sifted through and chosen. This is after only a “small” portion of eaux-de-vie are selected for the elusive path.

The kicker? The cognac’s age makes a long-inthe-tooth 10-year XO minimum look like the blink of an eye. The minimum age for a LXIII blend component is 40 years, and some threads surpass the century-old mark.

The impressive age inspires a wide array of tasting notes, from the tropical to the earthy.

The extended process has also lent the team a long-term vision that allows for careful consideration of processes, and an examination of our engagement with the passage of time. A collaborative effort with rapper and cognac connoisseur Pharrell Williams titled “100 Years” is both an homage to the lengthy creation process of the esteemed cognac and a plea to those who’d wish to pass on the tradition: a song, locked away, that will automatically release in 2117—if climate change and sea-level rise permit.

Recommended pairing: Barring dramatic medical advances, most of us won’t be able to hear what could be Mr. Williams’ magnum opus.

Instead, spin a copy of Random Access Memories from another of France’s finest exports, the electronic music duo Daft Punk. Their retro-futuristic sounds will lay the perfect backdrop for the waves of flavor that a glass of Louis XIII offers.

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COURVOISIER XO

A focus on techniques from the house of Courvoisier leads to an incredibly smooth product.

Working closely with many growers across four crus, producers take pride every step of the way. That is reflected not just in the distillate, but also in the oak that houses it. For both grape and wood, the process begins from the ground up. Two-hundredyear-old oak is selected by in-house coopers, and staves are dried for three years before the barrels are complete. A year’s worth of grapes undergo primary fermentation before they are ready for cognac’s signature double distillation.

Sipping straight will be an immersive experience filled with big floral notes alongside caramel and dried citrus—think snacking on candied orange in a lush meadow. If you choose to mix it up a bit, Courvoisier recommends a classic sidecar: 5 parts cognac, 2 parts triple sec, 2 parts lemon juice, shaken well and strained.

Recommended pairing: Take a listen to milea-minute wordsmith Busta Rhymes’ early-aughts party hit, “Pass the Courvoisier Part II.” Pharrell Williams’ hook and his production as part of The Neptunes are just as smooth as the indelible beverage.

HENNESSY MARC NEWSON

Bold yet smooth, rich yet filled with subtleties, Hennessy has made a name as a luxury beverage of choice among creatives across different media.

Arguably the first to use the XO distinction, Henny, as it’s lovingly referred to, is an excellent sipper and all-around cognac.

Notably using only the Ugni Blanc varietal, each bottle of Hennessy XO comprises 100 blending components. This depth of composition has led to a specific set of seven flavor notes that describe the journey through a pour of the elixir: Sweet Notes, Rising Heat, Spicy Edge, Flowing Flame, Chocolate Lull, Wood Crunches and Infinite Echo. These notes were deemed so evocative that acclaimed director Ridley Scott was commissioned to compose a sci-fi tribute exploring each of the “Seven Worlds.”

The special Marc Newson edition of the XO is another shining example of Hennessy’s collaborative spirit, showing a commitment to an aesthetic that prizes presentation alongside flavor. The designer’s reworking of the distinctive decanter utilizes horizontal striations to visually highlight both glass and liquid, and creates a uniquely textured object that reflects cognac’s many facets.

Recommended pairing: Savor a glass or two while watching Scott’s sci-fi watershed Blade Runner. Get your hands on 2007’s The Final Cut to appreciate the director’s true vision for the film as you do the same with the work of Hennessy’s blenders.

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HARDY XO RARE

In a landscape of limited edition blends, many of which focus on the design of the bottle itself, Hardy has to be hailed not just for excellent cognac but also for refined aesthetics. Founded in the region by an English ex-pat, the house takes influence not just from the spirit’s production, but from other sources of specifically French creativity.

Claiming a haute couture philosophy and decidedly feminine influences, Hardy produces cognac filtered through the lens of an atelier: Scents are cited as heavy stylistic influences, with tasting notes leaning toward the floral, and carafe designs explicitly influenced by bottles of fine perfume.

Early collaborations with the Cristallerie Daum studio have resulted in beautiful collectibles whose contents are as intoxicating as their containers. Recent works with the Lalique brand highlight the seasons, paying homage to the passage of time so crucial to cognac and the springlike bouquet it can offer.

Recommended pairing: Damozels & Deities is the most recent volume on 19th century stained glass from researcher William Waters and photographer Alastair CarewCox. Take in the beauty that glass working can achieve while savoring the bouquet of Hardy XO.

RÉMY MARTIN XO

This is a classic take on the spirit and one that has showed immense staying power. The blend, with up to 400 components, is referred to as a Cognac Fine Champagne—its grapes sourced exclusively from vineyards in two of the region’s crus, Grande Champagne (50 percent+) and Petite Champagne. The particular soil’s terroir encourages the level of ripeness in the grapes that makes the wine well-suited for the 24-hour double distillation process.

The eaux-de-vie that are produced from the distillation processes each year can number in the thousands, but many will not meet the standards required for them to be set down for a transformation in oak.

Years later, we are finally able to taste the product of this patience, hard work and informed selection. A drop of water can open up the cognac and enhance some of the more subtle fruity and spicy aromatics, just as it does with a fine whisky. Fatty cheeses and bold dark chocolates are among the great foods that pair well with cognac, but for its own XO, Rémy Martin recommends figs—a sweet treat that will bring out dried fruit flavors in the liquid that only time can develop.

If you want your cognac consumption to be a truly cinematic experience, check out the limited-edition XO packaging for the Cannes Film Festival. A pointillist take on the Rémy logo evokes the bright lights of a marquee and the flash of the paparazzi.

Recommended pairing: Kick back and take in the movie Port Authority, whose cast and crew made history voguing across the red carpet at Cannes. The film is a chronicle of romance in the NYC ballroom scene, whose traditions and uncompromising creativity will pair well with the warmth in your glass.

HINE ANTIQUE XO PREMIER CRU

For more than 250 years, the house of Hine has patiently crafted fine cognacs. One of its main tenets is “finesse”—a word with deep history that has maintained relevance, much like cognac itself, and come to represent a certain sense of style and cool. So how does one finesse excellent cognac out of the soil? For Hine’s Antique XO, it means a blend of 40 distinct eauxde-vies, crafted exclusively from Grande Champagne grapes, and an average component age of 20 years.

The producers cite Cyrano de Bergerac and acclaimed Bach pianist Glenn Gould as inspirations/accompaniments for the blend.

As with other producers, there is a crossover of disciplines and lifestyles that inform the making of the cognac—a balance between savoir faire and joie de vivre, a commitment to technique, and of course, a bit of finesse.

This blend has a wonderful spice character, lending a particular boldness that evokes Cyrano’s noted panache.

Recommended pairing: Light up a Macanudo Cru Royale while you savor a glass; the cigar’s bold yet balanced flavor will stand up to the cognac without overpowering it. The two powerhouses working together deliver maximum enjoyment.

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Perfect Wedding

MAKING IT HAPPEN— BEAUTIFULLY

A gifted event planner, Natalie Rice delivers stress-free occasions designed to delight. By Leslie Garisto Pfaff NATALIE RICE is a stickler for details—that’s a prerequisite in her line of work. As the founder of Natalia’s Event Planning in Mason, she’s a master at managing the dozens of moving parts that make up any large event, from a corporate holiday party to a nonprofit fundraiser to a lavish wedding—her specialty. For any given event, she’ll likely interact with dozens of creative vendors, including florists, photographers, caterers, pastry chefs, stationery designers, makeup artists, tablescapers, mobile bar owners, mirror calligraphers and, of course, jewelers.

And it’s a smart couple indeed that decides to throw Rice at their wedding.

In April of this year, she partnered with James Free on a style shoot—a fantasy wedding designed to showcase the best she and her vendors have to offer, photographed, in this case, by Kortni Danks of the team Kortni & Chris—at the Cincinnati Art Museum. “Though we had about 20 different creative partners working with us,” says Natalie, “James Free delivered the centerpiece of the event: a stunning six-carat yellow diamond engagement ring.”

Not only was the ring glorious to behold, it was also the perfect statement piece for the event, whose color palette was a pastel medley of yellow, green, pink and peach. Natalie also chose three different bridal sets from James Free that included additional engagement rings, statement bracelets, necklaces and earrings, as well as men’s watches and wedding

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Natalie Rice, renowned wedding planner and founder of Natalia’s Event Planning, showcased the area’s best florists, photographers, makeup artists and more at a style shoot held earlier this year at the Cincinnati Art Museum. Rice selected bridal sets from James Free that included engagement rings, bracelets, necklaces and earrings, but the centerpiece was a six-carat yellow diamond engagement ring.

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Perfect Wedding bands. Like the linens, table settings and flower arrangements, the jewelry too had to blend seamlessly into the shoot’s bohemian chic theme. Such are the details a master event planner has to consider in order to pull off an impeccable, picture-perfect event.

Natalie didn’t set out to become an event planner.

As a student at Xavier University, she majored in public relations and human resources. But after graduating in 2016 with both a B.A. and an M.A. under her belt, she got a job in human resources with responsibilities that included planning corporate events such as holiday parties and fundraising initiatives.

She found she had a knack for the work and started offering her services to friends and family members, blogging about her efforts and posting photos on social media. When, within the space of a month, three acquaintances asked her if she was accepting clients, she decided, she says, “to dive in and start my LLC,” which she did in September of 2019.

The timing may not have been perfect, but learning to manage social events during a global pandemic was an essential education in flexibility. She’s become adept at event liability insurance (should an event need to be canceled at the last minute) and at reassuring her clients that, no matter what happens, their day (or evening) will be memorable. “I encourage them that they’re going to have a beautiful event, that many of their loved ones are going to be there celebrating them, and that even if it doesn’t look like what they’d planned on day one, it’s going to be an extremely special milestone in their lives,” she says.

Eliminating stress, in fact, is one of Rice’s strong suits. Her company’s slogan—“Let’s make this party pretty”—isn’t just about aesthetics. “It really speaks to the stress-free experience that a couple should have on their wedding day or that clients should have on the day of their event,” she says. For her, “pretty” encompasses “managing the event effectively, maintaining relationships with all of the creatives and really delivering a standard of excellence to the Rice created a colorful tablescape thanks to the delicious food and spreads by top pastry chefs and caterers, as well as jewelry supplied

by James Free.

client.” While planning is at the core of her business, her favorite part of any event is actually the day of the event itself, when she’s charged with ensuring that all those moving parts work together smoothly. Clearly, what she does is much more than just a job to her. “It really is emotional and magical,” she says—for her, for her clients and for their delighted guests.

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ONE MOMENT, ONE LOVE.

Share your love with a Momenti ring and create a lasting memory.

The Momenti Collection features diamond centers with mix-and-match bands and is ready when you are.

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Fine Jewelry

ROCK STARS

From timeless white diamonds to precious colored stones, these stunning bands will pack a stylish punch.

From top: Christopher Designs 18K White Gold L’Amour Pear-Cut Diamond Band; Picchiotti Xpandable 18K White Gold, Diamond and Sapphire Ring; Picchiotti Xpandable 18K White Gold, Diamond and Ruby Ring; Christopher Designs 18K White Gold Crisscut Round Brilliant Diamond Band; Picchiotti Xpandable 18K White Gold, Diamond and Emerald Ring; Picchiotti Xpandable 18K White Gold Emerald-Cut Diamond Ring; Christopher Designs 18K White Gold L’Amour and Crisscut Round Diamond Band; Picchiotti Xpandable 18K White Gold Emerald-Cut Diamond Ring

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Fine Jewelry

ALL THAT GLITTERS

Mix and match your diamonds for a glamorous look to take you effortlessly from desk to dinner.

From top: James Free Collection In and Out Diamond Hoops; James Free Collection 14K Yellow Gold and Diamond Cuban Link Necklace; James Free Collection 14K White Gold Grand Diamond Riviera Necklace; Roberto Coin Cursive Diamond Initial “A” Pendant; James Free Collection 14K Yellow Gold and Diamond Cuban Link Bracelet FALL / WINTER 2021

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Repairs/Services

AT YOUR SERVICE

Since 1940, generations have trusted James Free Jewelers with expert repair of their precious timepieces and jewelry.

Service has always been the heartbeat of James Free.

CLEANING AND MAINTENANCE: We invite you to bring your jewelry and timepieces to James Free for a complimentary cleaning and inspection.

APPRAISALS Ensure your most treasured pieces have the correct and formal documentation of value.

REPAIRS We offer expert in-house repairs, from a simple watch battery to the most comprehensive service on your jewelry and timepieces.

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Pre-Owned Watches

PERFECT TIMING

We invite you to experience our curated collection of certified pre-owned Swiss timepieces.

Every pre-owned watch in our portfolio has been painstakingly inspected by our certified watchmakers and has undergone rigorous review before being offered to you.

Every James Free Jewelers pre-owned watch is of the highest quality and comes with our full two-year warranty.

From top: Pre-Owned Rolex 40MM Stainless Steel GMT-Master II, Oyster Bracelet, Automatic Movement Ref. 16710; Pre-Owned Cartier Panthère de Cartier 18K Yellow Gold, Small Model Ref. WGPN0008; Pre-Owned Breitling Navitimer 8 Chronograph Black Stainless Steel Automatic Movement Ref. M13314101B1X1; Pre-Owned Omega 43.5MM Stainless Steel Seamaster Planet Ocean Co-Axial Master Chronometer Ref. 21530442101-0021; Pre-Owned Rolex 41MM Yellow Gold Submariner Date, Perpetual, Mechanical, Self-Winding Ref. m126618lb; Pre-Owned Rolex 36MM 18K Yellow Gold Datejust Automatic Ref. 116188; Pre-Owned Tudor 41MM Stainless Steel & 18K Yellow Gold Black Bay Chrono S&G Ref. M79363N-0001 FALL / WINTER 2021

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Automotive

ELECTRIC AVENUE

Once a market rarity, the new Tesla Roadster is still a bolt of lightning—catch it if you can!

Tesla was cool way before it actually became cool. Some five years before Elon Musk became a household name in the mainstream automotive world, the manufacturer quietly released its debut consumer vehicle— the all-electric 2008 Tesla Roadster. After its low-production run of 25,000 units was sold, the company ditched the two-seater and redirected its efforts to perfect the now-iconic Model S. But the Roadster is back, and the 2023 iteration is rumored (by Musk himself) to have as much pep and spark as the fastest exotics in the world.

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TESLA 2023 ROADSTER Released as a concept car in 2017, the second generation Tesla Roadster officially hits the market as a ’23 model—and the wait was worth it. Engineers have refined it into one of the best performance cars in the world—according to Tesla boss Elon Musk. The exceptionally curvy and aerodynamic Roadster is said to finish the 0-to-60 sprint in 1.9 seconds, equaling the maker’s Model S, and top out at 250+ mph, faster than any production Pagani, McLaren and Lamborghini. But there’s more to the Roadster than just speed. Like every Tesla model, the Roadster is fully electric and features a 200-kWh battery that is believed to have a range of 620 miles under normal driving conditions. (Though tempting,

pushing the car to its speed limits expends more energy.) It also features the minimalist but highly intuitive interior design of other Teslas, from the driver’s gauge cluster to the dashboard. That dash is equipped with an infotainment system boasting a Wi-Fi hotspot, Netflix, YouTube and other apps (for when the car is parked, of course). For comfort, there’s a removable glass-panel roof, which can be stored in the trunk, while the back seat—yes, this roadster is a four-seater—is perfect for stowing small packages. Ready to drive? The Tesla Roadster starts at $200,000.

If you’re lucky, get your hands on the elite-level Founders Series for an additional $50K.

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WORLD PREMIÈRE S L I M L I N E M O N O L I T H I C M A N U FAC T U R E 4 0 H Z - 2 8 8 ’ 0 0 0 B E AT S / H O U R - 8 0 H R P O W E R R E S E R V E 1 0 0 % A N T I - M AG N E T I C

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