Andrea Barbier, Mariella Brochard, Courtney Odenheimer, Emma Peneguy
EDITOR IN CHIEF
Rita Guarna
CREATIVE DIRECTOR
Stephen Vitarbo
SENIOR ASSOCIATE EDITOR
Darius Amos
ASSISTANT EDITOR
Kirsten Meehan
CONTRIBUTING
EDITORS
Christen Fisher, Everett Potter
PUBLISHER
Lizette Chin
ADVERTISING/PRODUCTION SERVICES
Griff Dowden, Chris Ferrante, Jacquelynn Fischer, Catherine Rosario
ACCOUNTING
Kasie Carleton, Urszula Janeczko, Steven Resnick
PUBLISHED BY Wainscot Media
CHAIRMAN
Carroll V. Dowden
PRESIDENT & CEO
Mark Dowden
SENIOR VICE PRESIDENTS
Edward R. Burns, Lizette Chin, Thomas Flannery, Rita Guarna
VICE PRESIDENTS
Nigel Edelshain, Noelle Heffernan, Maria Regan, Steven Resnick
Dear Friends,
As we welcome a new season, we reflect with gratitude on another remarkable year, one filled with milestones, discoveries, and the joy of sharing them with you. This fall promises to be especially exciting, with a calendar full of celebrations and events we look forward to enjoying together.
We are thrilled about the reopening of our newly renovated Ridgeland, Mississippi location this fall. Having served Mississippi for nearly 30 years, we cannot wait to welcome you back to one of our flagship stores and provide an elevated experience. Looking ahead, we are equally excited to refresh our Lafayette location in the coming year.
This year has also taken us across the globe, strengthening our long-standing partnerships with suppliers. These relationships have proven invaluable as we navigate the changing landscape of tariffs and sourcing. Our travels included going directly to the source with diamond buying in India, exploring the jewelry markets overseas, and experiencing the global energy of design and craftsmanship. One highlight was our journey to Geneva for Watches and Wonders, where the world’s most prestigious watchmakers unveiled their latest creations, a glimpse of which you’ll find within these pages.
We were especially honored to be the first and only jeweler invited to tour the Rolex Service Center in Dallas with our full management team. Witnessing firsthand the precision, care and artistry behind the servicing of every Rolex timepiece was both humbling and inspiring.
Of course, no edition of our magazine would be complete without the beautiful jewelry that fills its pages. From timeless classics to the newest designs from your favorite brands, every piece has been chosen to inspire, delight and help you celebrate life’s most meaningful moments.
This magazine reflects our year, a collection of stories, experiences and extraordinary jewelry we are honored to share with you. We hope you enjoy exploring it as much as we enjoyed creating it for you.
We cannot begin to express how much your continued support means to us as we write this next chapter in our 47-year journey.
Sealed with a Ribbon
Our red box made a special appearance throughout the event season—from the Audubon Zoo to Do to Washington Mardi Gras in D.C. We are so grateful to our guests for the opportunity to celebrate with you!
IWC Ingenieur. Form und Technik.
Ingenieur Automatic 35, Ref. 3249
It’s no secret that some engineers have slimmer wrists than others. So, for them, we’ve created the new Ingenieur Automatic 35. We housed it in a case measuring 35 millimeters in diameter, paying particular attention to the proportions of the case, bezel and bracelet to guarantee perfect ergonomics and wearability. Despite its compact dimensions, this model has all the design features you’d expect of an IWC Ingenieur, such as Gérald Genta’s unmistakable artistic signature, a bezel with five screws and a grid-patterned dial. Which goes to show that caliber is often more than a question of mere size.
Style on Locke
Designer Elizabeth Locke shared tales of her travels, as well as an extended collection of her signature designs with guests at the City Club of Baton Rouge.
Blending Culture with Couture
Guests perused an extended collection of David Yurman pieces in a lively atmosphere, complete with a mariachi band, as we honored Dr. Kate Rogers for her inspiring efforts on behalf of The Alamo.
Sky-High Service
Ever been served champagne…from the ceiling? Guests at our New Orleans TUDOR event were greeted by a glass of bubbly, poured by an aerial silks performer. The crowd enjoyed music, art and the finest selection of TUDOR watches. Our watchmaker joined us behind the scenes, expertly adjusting each piece for the perfect fit.
AIR PRO PREPARED TO MASTER TIME
EVERYWHERE AT ONCE
Our Air Pro Automatic watch. With two crowns for time and GMT functions, plus clear 3D dials, you’re prepared to conquer time zones effortlessly.
STORE LOCATIONS
We invite you to visit any one of our nine locations to experience an extraordinary selection of beautiful jewelry and timepieces.
Diamond Drama
FRONT AND CENTER
Because the spotlight belongs to brilliance.
Curb link gold and pave diamond necklace, 11.53ctw, $32,000. 2.35ctw diamond pavé bypass hoop earrings, $6,500.
All around 25.29ctw oval diamond necklace with diamond halos, $120,000. 20mm hoops featuring oval diamonds set east/west with diamond halos, 4.35ctw, $22,500. Floral diamond ring, $24,000.
GENEVA
From the moment Lee Michaels Fine Jewelry first opened its doors, founder Lee Berg has built his business on quality and integrity—in its associates and in its products. “My dad started the business knowing that in order to be the best, he had to have the best partners,” says Chad Berg, Lee Michaels co-president. Lee’s dedication paid off around 1980 when Rolex welcomed Lee Michaels Fine Jewelers into the family of elite jewelers that represent the iconic brand.
“Since then, Lee Michaels has continued to work with the finest brands to provide that Lee Michaels experience that we’re known for,” adds Chad. Lee Michaels also represents other prestigious brands like Cartier, Patek Philippe, Tag Heuer and Tudor—brands that were among the distinguished timepieces showcased at the Watches and Wonders Geneva 2025 event in April. Attending the invitation-only portion of the expo were all three Lee Michaels co-presidents: Ryan, Scott and Chad Berg.
“I might lead the watch department but we work
very closely with each other as brothers,” says Ryan. Not only is their feedback and input valued, but their presence also speaks volumes to watchmakers about Lee Michaels core values. “I think it’s important that these watch manufacturers and heads of companies understand that we’re a family business and we work together in continuity,” he adds.
With watches being an important part of Lee Michaels business, it was important for the Bergs to be seen at the internationally acclaimed Watches and Wonders gathering and meet one-on-one with presidents, CEOs and other high-ranking executives of esteemed watch manufacturers. Together, in private, they discussed trends, business plans, allocations, future opportunities and new products.
“We’re going to the top echelon of the industry to make sure that we are connected and know what’s going on. We are proud to represent these amazing lines in our communities,” says Scott. They also visited with other jewelers and contemporaries and talked about trends in their respective markets.
“The energy at Watches and Wonders was phenomenal,” says Chad, “because we were all seeing the newest, latest and greatest watches, as well as the newest technology watchmakers have been working on.” Here’s a glimpse of some of those impressive timepieces.
Scott noted that the new Cubitus line from Patek Philippe continues to be very strong. Patek’s first new watch in over 20 years, Cubitus launched in October 2024. “It’s been phenomenal and is bringing on a younger, more youthful customer for an entry point into the brand.”
Of particular interest is a return to the styles of the ’70s and ’80s in timepieces. “There’s very much this retro vibe going on—reds, purples and oranges which lean more ’70s and disco,” says Chad. “Back then, Rolex had a watch named the Oysterquartz. This year, Rolex brought back a watch very similar to the Oysterquartz. It’s called the Land-Dweller. The first new family of watches that Rolex has introduced in about 20 years, it is also the first introduction that Rolex CEO Jean-Frederic Dufour has brought to the market since taking over in 2015.”
“Rolex’s Land-Dweller has a see-through case back so you can see the movement,” Chad explains. “This is not something Rolex typically does. It also has an integrated bracelet—a newbracelet-first in so many years—that’s pretty cool. The thinner movement with a honeycomb motif on the dial is incredible. It’s a neat watch and I am really excited about it.”
“Rolex is trying to stay youthful by coming up with new dials in fun colors,” says Ryan. “Rolex is very good at trying to stay true to its DNA so it evolves its timepiece instead of recreating them.”
Something else to note is that precious metals like yellow gold, rose gold, white gold and platinum are still trending with Rolex, Cartier and Patek Philippe. “Cartier has very elegant watches with diamonds,” says Scott. “These more elevated diamond products from Cartier are something the marketplace needed.”
Size matters—and smaller watch sizes are trending for both ladies and men. Forget those supersize 44 mm+ men’s watches of the 2000s. “I think the large size for men today is between 38 and 40 mm. That’s the new sweet spot,” says Ryan. However, Cartier’s metro-size for men, the Tank Louis, measures even smaller at 33.7 mm.
LONGINES SPIRIT ZULU TIME 1925
Timeless Gifts, Timeless Jewels
Fine jewelry is eternal—just like fine art. Give your special someone both in one exquisite gift, with stunning pieces from the world's most celebrated designers.
David Yurman
It’s the season of giving—and what better way to show your love than with beautiful, wearable art? David Yurman is inspired by the creative vision of artists and husband-and-wife duo David and Sybil Yurman. At the heart of its collection is the iconic Cable motif—a twisted helix of precious metal that embodies elegance. Capture the vibrant spirit of New York City, the brand’s hometown, with the bold chain links of the Madison and Mercer collections. Or embrace romance with radiant Starburst designs, inspired by a meaningful moment between David and Sybil beneath a Parisian sky lit by fireworks.
Clockwise from top left: Cablespira Flex Buckle Bracelet in 18K Gold with Diamonds, $6,900; Cable Flex X Bracelet in Silver with Diamonds, $1,250; Starburst Y Necklace in 18K Gold with Diamonds, $7,900; DY Madison® Chain Bracelet with Toggle and Ring with Diamonds, $3,300; DY Mercer® Multi-Row Ring in Silver and 18K Gold with Diamonds, $3,050; Starburst Multi-Star Ring in 18K Gold with Diamonds, $3,800.
Roberto Coin
At the confluence of history and nature lies the richest soil for creativity—and it is here where Roberto Coin’s exquisite jewelry designs take root, flourishing into exceptional works of wearable art. Try the floral Jasmine collection, for instance, with its delicate, geometric designs captured in 18K gold. For a bolder expression, the Cobra collection channels the strength and sensuality of its namesake with easy modern elegance. Drawn to heritage? Explore Love in Verona and its four-petaled flower motif, an homage to the storied Italian city, or honor the princess in your life with the magical Principessa collection, which weaves together gold and diamonds with royal effortlessness.
From top, left to right: 18K Yellow Gold Love In Verona Diamond Flower Circle Necklace; 18K Yellow Gold Jasmine Pavé Diamond Butterfly Stud Earrings; 18K Yellow Gold Love In Verona Medium Pavé Diamond Flower Stud Earrings; 18K Yellow Gold Love By The Inch Diamond & Polished Flower Station Necklace; 18K Yellow Gold Principessa Diamond & Flower Station Bracelet; 18K Yellow Gold Principessa Diamond & Flower Station Dangle Earrings; 18K Yellow Gold Love In Verona Medium Pavé Diamond Flower Ring; 18K Yellow/White Designer Gold Diamond Link Chain Bracelet.
Marco Bicego
A distinctive style. Technical brilliance. Unmistakable Italian flair. For 25 years, Marco Bicego has embodied these qualities, crafting jewelry defined by innovation and timeless beauty. This year, the brand celebrates its silver anniversary in signature style with the Lunaria Twist collection—a fresh take on a beloved classic. Iconic Lunaria silhouettes are reimagined with soft, sculptural curves, giving each piece a graceful movement that catches the light with every turn. Elegant and luminous, Lunaria Twist honors a legacy of craftsmanship while offering a bold vision for the future.
Clockwise from top left: 18K Yellow Gold Lunaria Twist Long Necklace, $8,200; 18K Yellow Gold Lunaria Twist Three Drop Earrings, $2,450; 18K Yellow Gold Lunaria Twist Lariat with Diamonds, $6,000; 18K Yellow Gold Lunaria Twist Drop Earrings with Diamond Hook, $1,890; 18K Yellow Gold Lunaria Split Cuff with Diamonds, $16,250.
Mikimoto
It takes true expertise to elevate the near-perfect luster of a pearl. So it’s no surprise that Mikimoto—founded in 1893 by Kokichi Mikimoto, the creator of the world’s first cultured pearls—remains the undisputed master of this art. This season, the ocean’s most coveted gem is paired with its most iconic hue in the brand’s Classic Blue collection, where luminous pearls are set alongside dreamy sapphires. The Olive collection offers a playful yet luxurious interpretation of olive branches, rendered in gold and accented with sparkling diamonds. And inspired by the dots and dashes of Morse code, the M Code collection delivers a modern expression of elegance—perfect for adorning yourself or someone you love.
From left: M Code Akoya cultured pearl necklace set in 18K yellow gold, $6,300; Olive Collection Akoya cultured pearl and diamond earrings set in 18K yellow gold, $5,000; Olive Collection Akoya cultured pearl and diamond pendant set in 18K yellow gold, $6,300.
Konstantino
For decades, Konstantino has captivated collectors with its signature blend of ancient inspiration and artisan craftsmanship. Now, the revitalized Gen-K Collection marks a bold new chapter—where timeless design meets modern energy. Featuring vibrant new colors and reimagined silhouettes, each piece is handcrafted in Athens, Greece, from sterling silver, 18K gold, and rich enamel accents. Designed for mixing, matching, and layering, Gen-K invites the modern tastemaker to express individuality through versatile, symbolic jewelry that doesn't just complement a look—it defines it.
from top left: Sterling Silver and 18K Yellow Gold Yellow Agate Doublet Pendant, $800; 18” Sterling Silver Chain, $100; Sterling Silver and 18K Yellow Gold Yellow Agate Doublet Ring, $680; 22” Sterling Silver Pink Corundum Station Necklace, $1,350; 36” Sterling Silver Aqua Station Necklace, $1,570; Sterling Silver and 18K Yellow Gold Pink Corundum Teardrop Doublet Cuff, $1,510; Sterling Silver and 18K Yellow Gold Aqua Teardrop Doublet Cuff, $1,510; Sterling Silver and 18K Yellow Gold Aqua Drop Earrings, $1,270; Sterling Silver and 18K Yellow Gold Pink Corundum Drop Earrings, $1,270.
Clockwise
A Brighter Gem is Coming
In celebration of 30 remarkable years in Mississippi, we’re transforming our Ridgeland store into a modern, luxurious space, designed with you in mind for a truly elevated shopping experience.
OPENING NOVEMBER 2025
THE CHARM
From playful motifs to meaningful mementos, the classic charm bracelet is making a comeback; reimagined in 14K gold and with diamond accents. Consider us charmed.
From top left to right: Polished Heart Charm, $375; Black and White Diamond Bee Pendant, $895; Heart Charm with Diamond Star Accents, $985; Open Heart Charm, $185; Lock and Key Charm, $350; Diamond Bee Disc Charm, $975; Diamond Cross Charm, $650. All in 14K Yellow Gold.
Upgrading Your Experience
Step inside our newly modernized Baton Rouge flagship, where modern luxury meets an elegant hospitality area and a stunning chain chandelier, creating an elevated, inviting shopping experience.
Precision is Beautiful
The art world knows it, and so does Patek Philippe: Flawless function can be the key to aesthetic delight. By Christen Fisher
“How can the artist be trained to take his place in the machine age?” That was the question on the minds of early 20th-century artists, according to New York City’s Museum of Modern Art. GermanAmerican architect Walter Gropius sought the answer, issuing his Bauhaus Manifesto and subsequently founding the Bauhaus School in 1919, with faculty members who included groundbreaking artists Paul Klee and Vasily Kandinsky. A trailblazer of modernist architecture, Gropius envisioned a union between art and industrial production that would result in a new design elegance for industrially produced objects people use every day. He put forth the now famous edict that form should follow function.
With its elegant lines and precise engineering, Patek Philippe’s Calatrava has exemplified Bauhaus principles since its inception in 1932. Though reinterpreted over the years, the Calatrava family of watches continues to serve as an emblem of Patek Philippe’s design ethos, rooted in Gropius’s vision. This year, Patek proudly debuted two new manual-wind Calatrava wristwatches: the 6196P-001 and the complicated 5328G-001.
The Calatrava 6196P-001 is a round wristwatch of exceptional elegance with an opaline, rose-gilt dial, featuring faceted hour markers and dauphine hour and minute hands, all in white gold with anthracite coating. It also has a small second hand positioned at 6 o’clock.
The watch’s polished platinum case is 38 millimeters—slightly larger than its predecessor, the 5196—and features a smooth, beveled bezel with satin-finished flanks. As with all platinum models offered by Patek, the caseband is elegantly adorned with a brilliantcut diamond at 6 o’clock.
Powered by the manually wound 30-255 PS caliber, which was first introduced in the Calatrava “Clous de Paris” reference 6119, the 6196P is an exercise in precision, boasting a 65-hour power reserve as well as a hacking function, which is a stop-seconds system that allows the time to be set to the exact second. The movement’s
beautifully finished architecture can be observed through a sapphire crystal caseback. Presented on a shiny, chocolate-brown alligator strap with a platinum prong buckle, the Calatrava 6196P-001 is offered at $49,440.
Adding to its extensive range of everyday complications, Patek has also introduced the Calatrava 5328G-001, which features instantaneous day (in an aperture) and date (by hand) displays at 6 o’clock as well as an eight-day power reserve at 12 o’clock. To accomplish these technological feats, Patek created an entirely new movement: the manually wound 31-505 8J PS IRM CI J caliber. Melding classic construction with technological innovation and optimization, the new movement features two series-coupled barrels to ensure accurate operation for eight full days, with a ninth “reserve” day displayed in red to show the wearer that the watch needs winding. The day-date displays jump instantaneously at midnight. The 41-millimeter, white-gold case features a caseband with a guilloched hobnail pattern and a sapphire crystal caseback to view this magnificent new movement.
With all its indicators in a vertical line, the 5328G is a paragon of balance and legibility. Its textured blue dial with a black-gradient rim features applied numerals as well as hour and minute hands, all in white gold with white luminescent coating. A small hand marks the seconds at 6 o’clock in the day-and-date subdial. Offered with two straps—a fabric-patterned, navy-blue calfskin with cream stitching as well as a grained taupe calfskin—and with a new patented triple-prong foldover clasp, the Calatrava 5328G-001 goes for $74,170.
In the spirit of Bauhaus principles, a watch is first and foremost an object you use and wear every day. Its functionality is the beating heart of an entire industry, and yet it is the watch’s design and finishing that elevate it beyond craftsmanship to high art. These new additions to Patek Philippe’s Calatrava collection represent the best of this tradition.
Vanessa’s
Jewelry Box
Life in New Orleans keeps Vanessa Berg on the go, from morning school drop-offs with her two young boys to evenings dedicated to supporting the many charities close to her heart. A Sustainer with the Junior League of New Orleans, she and her husband, Chad Berg, co-president of Lee Michaels, love calling the city home, and her signature style, timeless with a modern edge, shines through in everything from the way she decorates her home to the pieces she wears every day.
Vanessa has always had a love of fashion. “Right out of college, I completed the Executive Development Program at Neiman Marcus and worked as an assistant buyer in the contemporary department,” she recalls. “That was such a formative time in my life. It was where I honed my eye for style, and it’s also where I met Chad.”
Her go-to rings include an Ippolita cocktail ring, a multi-row David Yurman ring and a custom diamond butterfly ring, a gift from her husband.
This pearl strand was a gift from Chad. It features a unique gradient of pearls and hidden clasps that allow it to be worn at three different lengths.
She often laughs that Chad is the one who keeps their social calendar busy. “Chad never likes to stay home, so we are out a lot, whether it is dinners, charity events, or time with friends. I need jewelry that I can throw on quickly after carpool or a soccer game and know I’ll feel put together.”
Day in and day out, her essentials stay the same. “You’ll always find me in my diamond studs,” Vanessa says. “They’re so easy, but when I add the diamond and pearl drop, they instantly become something dressier. I love pieces that can change with me throughout the day.”
That focus on versatility shapes her collection. “I gravitate toward jewelry that I can wear many different ways,” she explains. “I don’t want something that just sits in my box waiting for a big event. I love pieces that I can layer, switch up and make my own.”
For Vanessa, every piece carries significance. “So much of my jewelry tells a story,” she says. “Some are gifts from Chad, others are family heirlooms, and then there are the pieces I simply fell in love with. When I look at my jewelry box, it’s really a reflection of my life, full of memories, milestones and meaning.”
Vanessa’s diamond studs take on a new elegance with removable pearl and diamond jackets, lovingly created from heirloom earrings once belonging to Brenda’s mother, Louise.
The mariner link necklace (center) is a cherished family heirloom, first gifted to Lee’s mother and later passed down to Vanessa. She pairs it with a Marco Bicego Paradise necklace and a large diamond circle pendant from Ippolita. This sapphire and diamond necklace is a testament to Vanessa’s love of simple, elevated classics.
Vanessa wears a rose gold Cartier Ballon Bleu.
Actor Ryan Gosling has made his career on characterdriven dramas, and his taste in timepieces is equal parts elegant and restrained. getty images
Time to be Serious
Actor Ryan Gosling wants to be judged not on celebrity hype but on how he performs. (His watches perform well too.)
Ryan Gosling’s list of acting accolades is impressive. Originally from London, Ontario, the 44-year-old has racked up a Golden Globe, a primetime Emmy, two British Academy Film Awards and three Oscar nominations, and those are just the big ones. He hasn’t yet been named People magazine’s Sexiest Man Alive, but the Hollywood gossip mill (notably entertainment news outlet TheWrap) says he’s been offered the title several times and turned it down. (Can you do that?) As the story goes, it was because he wants to be taken seriously for his work as an actor.
How serious can you be and still star in Barbie? Plenty, apparently. Gosling has also played a Jewish neo-Nazi (The Believer, 2001), a political-campaign manager (The Ides of March, 2011) and a struggling jazz pianist (La La Land, 2016). His every move is refined and deliberate—unsurprising from a man who started his rise to fame in the character-driven dramas of Danish director Nicolas Winding Refn. The actor and his long-term partner, retired actress Eva Mendes, have two children together but won’t confirm if they’re married. (Mendes says she “likes to keep it mysterious.”) And it’s no surprise that Gosling’s taste in timepieces matches his image: elegant, deliberate, refined and enticingly restrained.
How’s this for restraint? Gosling didn’t take a single brand deal until 2021. The brand he decided finally to put his star power behind was iconic Swiss watchmaker TAG Heuer. He says he was drawn to the brand for its motor-racing legacy. His own breakout role in 2011’s Drive saw him playing an enigmat-
WATCHES TO WATCH
Known for selecting his on-screen timepieces with characterization in mind, Gosling sports a Rolex Submariner 16610 in early scenes of the 2011 romcom Crazy Stupid Love Eyecatching, incredibly readable and lauded as a highly capable dive watch (as all Submariners are), this is a piece that embodies the masculine charm of a leading man.
The golden face of the Rolex Air-King Super Precision that Gosling wore at the 2017 Oscars perfectly complemented the equally sparkling gown of his La La Land co-star Emma Stone. This watch is all jazz-age class— appropriate for the movie, which tells the story of a romance through a shared love of jazz and allowed Gosling and Stone to show off some serious dance moves.
At the 2017 Golden Globes, Gosling was decked out in white dinner jacket with a red carnation tucked in the buttonhole, a clear reference to Sean Connery as James Bond in Goldfinger He also sported a sleek, vintage Rolex Air-King 5500 from the 1950s, something that’s been described as being “any watch collector’s dream grail.”
ic stunt driver who moonlights as a getaway driver—and that connection felt resonant. When he took to the screen as in 2023 as Ken in Barbie, the character was decked out in three vintage, golden TAG Heuer pieces. In a conversation with GQ, Gosling explained: “Generally the watch is a symbol that you’re busy and you have important things to do and cool places to be. When you’re a Ken, you have none of those things, so it’s even more important for you to appear that you do.” On the movie’s press tour, he also rocked a gold Carrera, albeit a slightly more understated piece than the ones he picked for Barbie’s beau.
That wasn’t the only time he’s used his timepieces as storytelling tools. In Drive, he constantly rests a beautiful Patek Philippe Calatrava 5196G on the steering wheel in the camera’s full view—“because I wanted it to communicate how every second was life or death to this character,” said Gosling in that same interview. The Gray Man, which debuted in 2022 and is also about a man on the run, features him in a TAG Heuer Carrera Calibre 5 with a silver dial on a stainless-steel bracelet.
Off screen? Simplicity and elegance rule. When he accepted his Golden Globe for Best Actor in a Musical or Comedy in 2017 in La La Land, he wore a sleek Rolex Air-King 5500 from the 1950s, the face done in a dreamy pearlescent tone. At the Oscars that same year, he sported a Rolex Air-King Super Precision in stainless steel with a smooth bezel. Its glowing golden face perfectly matched his co-star Emma Stone’s gown, a choice we can only assume the detail-oriented Gosling had a hand in.
Legacy of Excellence
At Lee Michaels Fine Jewelry, our people are at the heart of everything we do.
This year, we are proud to recognize associates who have reached remarkable career milestones; 15, 30 and even more years of unwavering dedication. Their passion, expertise and commitment to excellence continue to shape our legacy and elevate the experience for every customer who walks through our doors. These individuals embody the values that have guided Lee Michaels Fine Jewelry for generations: integrity, personalized service and an uncompromising standard of quality. Their enduring presence is a testament to the strong culture we’ve built together, where relationships matter and every detail counts. Please join us in celebrating their extraordinary contributions and the lasting impact they’ve made on our company, our customers and each other.
CELEBRATING 10 YEARS
Larry Chenoweth
Store Director Albuquerque, NM
CELEBRATING 30 YEARS
Kim Henry
Store Director Lafayette, LA
CELEBRATING 15 YEARS
Store Director San Antonio, TX
CELEBRATING 40 YEARS
Executive Vice President Baton Rouge, LA
Liza Huizar-Perez
Johnny Tate
From top to bottom: Platinum Sapphire and Diamond Engagement Ring, 3.40ct Center, $55,000. Platinum Sapphire and Diamond Engagement Ring, 1ct Round Center, $14,750. Platinum Sapphire and Diamond Engagement Ring, 1.81ct Center, $22,250. 17” 18K White Gold Sapphire and Diamond Pendant Necklace, $12,000. Platinum Sapphire and Diamond Engagement Ring, 6.44ct Round Center, $126,500. Platinum Sapphire and Diamond Engagement Ring, 2.10ct Center, $27,500.
DIAMOND DROP EARRINGS
From left to right: Yellow Gold Oval and Round Diamond Drop Earrings, 2.40ctw, $14,300. White Gold Oval and Round Diamond Drop Earrings, 2.18ctw, $12,740. All in 18K Gold.
Lee’s Picks
SAPPHIRE AND DIAMOND BANDS
From top to bottom: Marquise Sapphire and Pavé Diamond Band, $495. Round Sapphire and Diamond Band, $1,250. Diamond Eternity Band, 1ctw, $2,750. Round Sapphire and Diamond Band with Marquise Shapes, $500. Round Sapphire and Diamond Band, $950. Round Diamond Wedding Band, 0.70ctw, $2,350. All in 14K White Gold.
Discover the latest must-have pieces handpicked by our beloved founder.
DIAMOND BANGLES
From left to right: Round Diamond Flex Station Bracelet, $2,500. 18K Yellow Gold Penny Preville Diamond Station Bangle Bracelet, 0.48ctw, $7,495. 18K Yellow Gold Penny Preville Bezel Set Diamond Bangle Bracelet, 1.06ctw, $9,530. 18K Yellow Gold Penny Preville Mixed Cut Diamond Bangle Bracelet, 1.69ctw, $12,410. Oval and Round Diamond Bangle, 1.57ctw, $6,250. Round Diamond with Alternating Clover Shapes, $2,100. All in 14K Yellow Gold unless otherwise stated.
DIAMOND DISC NECKLACES
DIAMOND BOW COLLECTION
POLISHED GOLD AND DIAMOND HOOPS
PRECIOUS PEARLS
From left to right: Diamond Bow Stud Earrings, $1,200. 18” Diamond Bow Necklace, $1,675. All in 14K Yellow Gold.
From left to right: 18” Diamond Circle Pendant Necklace, $2,300. Round Diamond Circle Pendant, $1,250. (chain sold separately) Round Diamond Circle Pendant, $1,450. (chain sold separately) All in 14K Yellow Gold.
From left to right: Platinum 11mm White South Sea Pearl and Diamond Pendant, 18" Chain, $2,550. Platinum 10mm White South Sea Pearl and Diamond Ring, $2,225.
From top to bottom: Diamond Hoop Earrings, $1,850. Diamond Hoop and Dangle Earrings, $1,675. Diamond and Open Hexagon Hoop Earrings, $750. All in 14K Yellow Gold.
IMAGINATION IN MOVEMENT
Rolex unveils its new watches, conceived by the perpetually active imagination that imbues the entire manufacture From the movements to cases and bracelets, from design to the choice of materials, the latest creations offered by Rolex attest to visionary achievements in watchmaking that pave the way to new horizons.
The LAND-DWELLER Opening new horizons
Rolex begins a new chapter in its history with the Oyster Perpetual Land-Dweller. This watch is powered by a revolutionary calibre – a movement that was designed to beat at the high frequency of 5 hertz and be highly performant.
The GMT-MASTER II
The perfect match
Rolex introduces its very first ceramic dial on an 18 ct white gold version of the Oyster Perpetual GMT-Master II. In the same material, with the same green colour and the same lustre, this Cerachrom dial and the daytime half of the green and black bezel insert echo each other perfectly.
The perpetual 1908
The geometry of elegance
Rarely has solid gold felt so supple and light on the wrist. The Perpetual 1908 in 18 ct yellow gold is now available on a bracelet fashioned entirely in this precious metal. An innovative geometry endows this seven-piece link bracelet with refinement and comfort in all-round elegance.
The COSMOGRAPH DAYTONA
Bold contrast
The Cosmograph Daytona dons a turquoise blue lacquer dial paired with bright black counters. The rich colours set against the precious 18 ct yellow gold of the case and the technical characteristics of the Oysterflex bracelet offer a remarkably refreshing combination.
The GMT-MASTER II
An exclusive alliance
The GMT-Master II in 18 ct Everose gold with a Cerachrom bezel insert in brown and black ceramic is now available with a dial in tiger iron. This natural stone, used by Rolex for the first time, is characterized by its complex structure. A painstaking selection and meticulous assembly have harmoniously matched it with the colours of the Oyster case and bracelet.
The SKY-DWELLER
Vibrant reflections
For the first time, the Sky-Dweller brings together two of the brand’s iconic colours, juxtaposing a sunray-finished, bright green dial with a case and bracelet in 18 ct yellow gold. This radiant dial together with the resplendent reflections from the fluted bezel and Jubilee bracelet result in an exceptionally exuberant watch.
The OYSTER PERPETUAL
A fresh look
A muted lavender, a warm sandy beige and a fresh pistachio green. The Oyster Perpetual is graced with new faces in an array of colours that celebrate the meeting of pastel shades, vibrant lacquering and a smooth, matt finish.
The DATEJUST Light and shade
The red ombré dial of the new Oyster Perpetual Datejust 31 presents a subtle transition between the fire at its centre and a deep darkness at its edge – a chiaroscuro enhanced by the sparkling diamonds set on the bezel and dial.
Decked Out & Dazzling
An exquisite curation of holiday event looks, designed to make every entrance unforgettable.
From top to bottom: Platinum Pear Shape Diamond Necklace, 6.01ct, $235,000. 18K White Gold Cushion Cut Yellow Diamond Engagement Ring, 4.12ct, $84,400.
CURATED LOOK #1
Pear Perfection & Yellow Diamonds
CURATED LOOK #2
Mixed Metals & Shapes
From top to bottom: 18K Yellow Gold Mixed Shape Bezel Diamond Tennis Necklace, $145,000. Platinum Cushion Cut Engagement Ring with Pear Shape Side Stones, 5.02ct, $110,000. Emerald Cut Diamond Tennis Bracelet, 21.78ctw, $155,000.
From top to bottom: 14K White Gold Round Diamond White Gold Riviera Necklace, 15ctw, 16.5 inch, $42,500. Diamond Eternity Bands from Our Reserve Collection, starting at $16,000. Ladies Small Santos de Cartier Watch, $30,800.
CURATED LOOK #3
Classic Style
Tudor Turns Burgundy
In this new hue, the company’s Black Bay 58 watches combine a mid-century aesthetic with up-to-the-minute practicality. By Christen Fisher
Rooted in a storied past yet decidedly looking toward a daring future, Tudor has added a bold new color to its Black Bay 58 collection: burgundy.
History is important at Tudor. The Black Bay line is named for the year in which the brand’s first dive watches waterproof to 200 meters were released, and the introduction of this rich new colorway has its roots in a prototype from 1990s: the Tudor submariner reference 79190, which featured a burgundy dial and a matching bezel. Though this watch never saw production, its colorway lives on in the newly released Black Bay 58 and the Black Bay 58 GMT.
Classic, yet modern, the new Black Bay 58 in has a 39-millimeter, stainless-steel case with both ished and satin finishes. Its unidirectional, rotatable zel has uniquely machined sides for easy gripping features a burgundy anodized aluminum insert subtly curved numerals that align with the outline of the outer ring. The watch’s domed satin radialbrushed burgundy dial is highly legible, featuring applied hour markers and Tudor’s iconic snowflake hands, both filled with Grade A Swiss Super-LumiNova luminescent material. The lollipop second hand is reminiscent of the brand’s early dive watches.
The Black Bay 58 is powered by Manufacture Calibre MT5400-U, a self-winding mechanical movement with a bi-directional rotor system and a hacking function for precise time-setting. Exceptionally engineered, the watch exceeds the standards for precision, resistance to magnetic fields, waterproofness and power reserve set by the Official Swiss Chronometer Testing Institute (COSC) and has earned the designation Master Chronometer by the Swiss Federal Institute Metrology (METAS). It is waterproof to 200 meters, its 65-hour power reserve makes it weekend-proof,
means the wearer can remove the watch on Friday evening and put it back on Monday morning without having to reset it. It is available on a 5- or 3-link, “rivet-style,” stainless-steel bracelet with a mix of polished and satin finishes or on a cut-to-size black rubber strap. All three close with the Tudor “T-fit” clasp. The Black Bay 58 in burgundy begins at $4,400.
With proportions characteristic of mid-century design and a style meant to evoke the glamour of the jet age, the Black Bay 58 GMT is an entirely new model in the Black Bay line. Slightly smaller than the Black Bay GMT but just as robust, the 58 GMT in diameter, with a slim profile at 12.8 milbidirectional, rotatable bezel is stainless steel with burgundy-and-black, anodized aluminum insert with a gilt scale. The subtly domed black dial also features gilthour markers with coordinating snowflake hour minute hands, a 24-hour hand and a lollipop second all filled with Grade A Swiss Super-LumiNova luminescent material for maximum legibility. Powered by the GMT Manufacture Calibre MT5450-U self-winding mechanical movement, the 58 GMT features a hacking function for precise time-setting and has a jumping hour, 24-hour, minute and second hands, as well as an instantaneous date at 3 o’clock, which is synchronized the jumping hour hand and does not have a non-correction range. This means that the wearer can the hour hand to a new time zone at any point in or night and the date will automatically adjust Like the Black Bay 58, the GMT is waterproof meters, has a 65-hour power reserve and is both METAS-certified.
a “rivet-style,” 3-link bracelet or a cut-to-size, strap and closing with Tudor’s “T-fit” clasp to maximum comfort and adjustability, the Black Bay 58 $4,675.
Goodwill Is a Good Thing
Back in 1970, Dorothy and Larry Rainosek left their home and families in Texas to move to Albuquerque with two young children.
Their son Mark was five, and his sister Shannon was 18 months old. The young parents knew the move to New Mexico was a risk.
But they had a dream and were willing to work to achieve their goals.
“ One of our cars pulled a car, and then we had a U-Haul truck. We arrived in December and opened a restaurant, which at that time seated 99 people,” Dorothy said. “ We just felt we had a chance to have a good life.”
Larr y grew up on a dairy farm in La Grange, Texas. He was used to working every day. As the daughter of a taxi driver, Dorothy knew about hard work too.
Now married for 61 years, the Rainoseks are known as much for their philanthropy as for their restaurant empire. They have become two of Albuquerque’s most generous benefactors, giving millions of dollars to Albuquerque institutions and organizations.
They’ve contributed more than $5.5 million to the University of New Mexico and its different colleges and programs. Primary donations have been to Architecture and Planning, UNM Athletics, Fine Arts and the Presidential Scholarship Program. They’ve also given generously to the UNM Foundation and other campus initiatives.
Beyond the university, the Rainoseks have made significant financial contributions to St. Pius X High School. Both of their children, Mark and Shannon, graduated from St. Pius X and UNM.
Additionally, they supported the New Mexico Symphony
Orchestra and the Senorita program, a presentation program for high school senior girls. While the symphony folded a few years ago, the Rainoseks have continued to support the Senorita Program, which became a program with the Music Guild of New Mexico. More recently, they have started supporting the New Mexico Philharmonic Orchestra.
They have also been big supporters of Vintage Albuquerque, a nonprofit group focused on arts and music education. For the last five years, it has benefitted Keshet Performing Arts, and before that it helped fund other organizations focusing on providing dance and art education to young people.
Creating this kind of philanthropic legacy has taken years of the couple’s incredible work ethic, Larry’s ‘I-can-fix-that’ attitude, Dorothy’s vision and flair — plus countless breakfast burritos, sweet rolls, hamburgers, and gallons of green chile stew
Larr y gives Dorothy credit for launching the family’s major philanthropic giving.
“ Oh, that was more so Dorothy,” he says. “But I’ve always felt that goodwill is a good thing.”
They attribute part of their interest in giving to their parents.
Growing up, Larry’s parents sang in the choir at their church and his mom played the organ at church for more than 60 years.
“They always would give a little to the church,” Dorothy said. “My dad was a cab driver and my mom was a homemaker. They would also give to the church — and that’s all we
Their initial giving started years ago when the dean of the architecture school asked if they might give one particular student a cheeseburger every day.
“I said, ‘Dean, it’s gonna be too hard to keep up with that. Why don’t we just do a scholarship?’” Dorothy said. “So that was our first $1,000 scholarship to architecture and planning.”
Then they did a second one. And a third.
“We have now endowed three scholarships to architecture, planning and landscaping,” Dorothy said.
Both of the Rainoseks’ children grew up in the restaurant. Shannon, now an attorney, is the company’s CEO. Mark is an anesthesiologist.
It was Mark’s education that helped propel their generosity into even more formal scholarships. When he was a senior in high school and won a full-ride Presidential Scholarship to the University of New Mexico, his parents told him that they could afford to send him to college. Instead of refusing the scholarship, he suggested that his parents pay for another student to go to school.
So they did.
“ He said, ‘Mom, if you and Dad give a scholarship, there will be two of us going to college,’” Dorothy said. “And from one, we now have five other scholarships, one endowed.”
Donna Peck, wife of Dr. Richard Peck (president of the University of New Mexico from 1990-98), introduced Dorothy to more formalized
philanthropy and inspired the Rainoseks to think bigger about their philanthropy in Albuquerque.
Larry says that he agrees that not only is it a good idea to give back, but it also makes good business sense. Even when the Rainoseks’ restaurant business was small, they gave to the community— at church, at schools and by helping with Bingo fundraisers.
“This was our way to get a better representation of our business in the community,” Larry said.
Dr. Mark Rainosek agrees with his father’s thinking.
He says altruism is important, but both father and son agree that giving to others makes good business sense.
”My parents like to make sure that other people have more chances in education,” Mark said. “Yes, they’ve set up lots of different scholarships, but you know, it also is advertising—and our family name is out there showing people that we give back to the community.”
Daughter Shannon says philanthropy begets more philanthropy.
“We really get to learn about so many organizations that other people may not have heard of,” she said. “There are so many worthy causes.”
Shannon says she and her brother try to follow in their parents’ example and focus their personal giving on education.
“We are fortunate that we can give to the groups that are important to us and/or groups that are im-
portant to others,” Shannon said. “When someone introduces us to a new group, sometimes I’m like, ‘Wow, I had no idea that someone was doing that. That’s amazing.’”
The Rainoseks have given a lot through their businesses, but Shannon says each member of the family has started doing more personally.
Long ago, back in Austin, Larry had helped his boss build a successful restaurant right beside the campus of the University of Texas. He and Dorothy thought if they could find a similar setup at a different university, they could make it work.
Albuquerque was home to the University of New Mexico—and it looked like a restaurant near campus might work well.
In February 1971, they opened Frontier Restaurant at 2400 Central Ave. SE in Albuquerque, right across from the university’s School of Architecture. At the time, the restaurant seated 99 people and they needed to make $300 a day to break even.
On the first day, they made $58.
By June that first year, they had begun to figure things out.
At 84, Larry still prefers to go on the roof of the restaurant himself to address problems, though his family has insisted that he make some adjustments.
“ I’ve always been really good at keeping things working because, you know, we came from frugal beginnings,” Larry said. “I mean, just yesterday, I fixed a toaster. All it was was a burnt wire. If I take it to the shop, that’s $150, and it takes me 10 or 15 minutes and it’s fixed.”
It’s that mindset that has paved the way for the Rainoseks to become major philanthropists.
The iconic Frontier Restaurant is still serving great breakfasts, burritos, burgers, roasted green chile, homemade flour tortillas, fresh-squeezed orange juice and its famous Frontier Sweet Roll. University of New Mexico students and the rest of the community still flock to it to enjoy the dishes that have come to be a part of the city’s palate.
Through the years, the Rainosek family has expanded their Albuquerque-based restaurant business to include four Golden Pride locations. Golden Pride has been serving barbecue, chicken and ribs since 1972—along with more than 10 types of breakfast burritos, served all day.
Dorothy and Larry Rainosek have built much more than a restaurant empire. They’ve built a legacy—one measured not just in burritos and sweet rolls, but in opportunity, generosity and the community they continue to nourish.
What began as a risk—two young parents moving to a city where they knew no one—has become one of Albuquerque’s greatest success stories. For more than 50 years, the Rainoseks have proven that goodwill is, indeed, a very good thing.
Strength In Style
From sleek chains to bold bracelets, these pieces are made for the man who knows that true style is in the details.
Curated for Him
Elevated, intentional and unmistakably refined—our curated selection of men’s jewelry and timepieces is designed for those who express strength through subtle sophistication. From the distinctive craftsmanship of David Yurman and Konstantino to the artisanal edge of John Hardy, each piece reflects individuality and quiet confidence. Anchored by a selection of luxury timepieces, this collection is curated for the man who values design, detail and enduring quality in every facet of his style.
Clockwise from top left: David Yurman Chevron Tag in Sterling Silver, $325. NORQAIN Wild One 42mm with Skeleton Dial and Turquoise Rubber Strap, $6,150. TUDOR Black Bay FiftyEight with Rubber Strap, $4,750. David Yurman Hex Bead Bracelet with Black Onyx and 18K Yellow Gold, $4,200. Konstantino Fleur de Lis Carved Bracelet, $1,040. John Hardy Flex Cuff with Black Diamonds, $1,895.
For 50 years, Penny Preville has graced the world of fine jewelry with designs that transcend time, marrying vintage inspiration with a distinctly modern sensibility. Since founding her namesake brand in 1975, Preville has built a legacy defined by elegance, craftsmanship and a deep reverence for beauty. Her pieces—crafted in 18K gold and set with hand-selected natural diamonds and gemstones—are more than adornments; they are wearable works of art designed to be treasured across generations. From red carpets to everyday moments, Penny Preville jewelry captures the essence of romance and refined sophistication. What began as a teenage pursuit of self-expression has grown into one of the most beloved names in luxury jewelry. Drawing early inspiration from her grandmother’s jewelry box and her artistic upbringing on Long Island, Preville has always infused her creations with heart and heritage. Today, her designs are worn by discerning women across the globe and carried by leading independent jewelers throughout North America. As we celebrate five decades of Penny Preville, we honor not only her remarkable artistry but also her commitment to sustainability, quality and timeless beauty. Here's to a legacy written in the stars—and to the next chapter of enduring elegance.
The Right Ring . The Right Plan
.
FINANCE YOUR FOREVER RING WITHOUR PREFERRED FINANCING PROGRAM*
*Subject to credit approval. Ask for details. Initial account activation in-store only.
The Lee Michaels credit card is issued with approved credit by Wells Fargo Bank, N.A. The LM Preferred Financing Program provides the flexibility to help your dreams come true.
Harmony Collection
Designed for everyday wear with a hint of sparkle, this collection blends understated gold with refined diamond accents.
unless
From left to right: 18” Diamond Fluted Circle Necklace, $775. Diamond Cross Necklace, $650. Graduated Diamond Butterfly Pendant Necklace, $975. 18K Yellow Gold Diamond Hexagon Pendant Necklace, 0.34ctw, $1,275. 18” Diamond Butterfly Lariat Drop Pendant Necklace, $1,575. 18” Round Pavé Diamond Disc Pendant Necklace, $1,425. All in 14K Gold
otherwise noted.
Lindsey + Christopher A Lee Michaels Love Story
Photos by: Wonder Photography
When Chris Cedotal purchased a Victorian fixerupper nicknamed the “Bride’s House,” he had no idea that he was soon to share the home with a bride of his own. Chris put significant time and energy into transforming the space, and in the midst of the renovations, he met Lindsey Walker. As he continued to build the house, the pair also built their relationship, and the two were engaged in April 2024. Together they envisioned the property as a family retreat, a place to gather, celebrate and escape the everyday.
The couple decided to have a two-day celebration, and on March 14, 2025, the festivities began. The ceremony took place at the historic St. Mary’s Episcopal Church in St. Francisville, Louisiana, and was followed by a seated wedding dinner at the St. Francisville Inn. The following day, the newlyweds welcomed 250 guests into their newly constructed home for a lively reception. “We wanted part of our story to be having the reception here, since the house had already been such a big part of our relationship,” Lindsey says. Now, as newlyweds, they look forward to using the Bride’s House—now called Oak Hill— not just as a weekend escape, but as a meaningful place to welcome loved ones for years to come.
THE DETAILS: Friends and family gathered for an intimate ceremony at the historic St. Mary’s Episcopal Church in St. Francisville, Louisiana. Wedding planner Angela DiVincenti Babin set a glimmering scene with floating candles and rows of clear acrylic chairs adorned with flowers.
THE DETAILS: Lindsey and Chris welcomed guests into their newly completed home for the reception, featuring blue and white accents and a decadent six-tier cake.
THE DETAILS: The couple kicked the party off with one of Chris’ favorite bands, Better than Ezra. As a memento, guests received a custom bottle of Maker’s Mark.
Forever starts with a
MR. & MRS. BRENNAN ACEVEDO (Claire Legnon)
Lee Michaels has been helping couples say “I Do” since 1978.
MR. & MRS. JACOB ESTES (Katy Bodin)
June 12, 2025 | Venice, Italy
Photography: LoreVenice
June 6, 2025 | Hammond, Louisiana
Photography: Lizzie Jones Photography
MR. & MRS. RYAN GUIDRY (Hailee Hayes)
April 5, 2025 | Iota, Louisiana
Photography: Brittany Bailey Photography
MR. & MRS. HUNTER CHAMPAGNE (Morgan Sutherland)
August 26, 2024 | Ft. Meyers, Florida
Photography: Lindsey Romero Media
MR. & MRS. LARRY BRASS, JR. (Kevaniesha Snearl)
July 19, 2025 | Baton Rouge, Louisiana
Photography: DSW Photography
MR. & MRS. DAVID BRANTLEY MOCK, JR. (Tressie Mouton)
April 12, 2025 | Abbeville, Louisiana
Photography: Lindsay Vidrine
MR. & MRS. CARL GUIDRY (Abby Brown)
June 14, 2025 | Norcross, Georgia
Photography: Katie Coon Photography
Where Elegance Lives
Interior designer Marshall Watson tells the homeowner’s story in all his creations— including his own Manhattan apartment.
The greatest artists were born to create. Mozart started composing music around 5 years old, roughly the same age when Monet began to draw and Michael Jackson first belted out tunes in public as a singer. That doesn’t mean, however, that artistry can’t be learned. Marshall Watson took the scenic route on his way to becoming one of New York City’s most esteemed interior designers. He dabbled in acting and engineering at Stanford University before “finding my way” to interior design at Fashion Institute of Technology. What did he learn? Through his studies, his inspirations and his experience, Watson today—now in his mid-60s—doesn’t follow a formula when creating his elegant interiors. Instead, every decision he makes is for the specific client.
“As a designer, I always have the same objective: answering the wants, needs, aspirations and fantasies of the people who will inhabit a home,” he says in his newest book, Marshall Watson: DefiningElegance (Rizzoli, $58) which he penned with Marc Kristal. His own home is no exception. When designing his apartment on Manhattan’s Upper West Side, Watson matched his skills with the dreams he shared with his husband, Paul. The results are on the pages that follow.
In decorating his own Manhattan apartment, interior designer Marshall Watson paired the living-room sofa, which was inspired by Billy Baldwin Studio’s St. Thomas design, with acrylic side tables. Behind them are Baldwin’s original étagères for Cole Porter’s library.
This page: Watson and his husband, Paul, use an English rosewood center hall table for dining. The adjacent coffee table, made of nickel and walnut, is an ideal surface on which to rest novels and wine. Opposite: There’s plenty to see outside the apartment’s floor-to-ceiling windows as well as inside, including the lantern—which Watson designed himself—hanging above a walnut Regency desk and the late-18th-century Gustavian gilded mirror.
This page: For the primary bedroom, Watson designed the bedspread, the linens and the bed, with its canopy of 92 pleats. “My grandmother’s late 1600s Persian doors contrast wonderfully with the enveloping and comprehensive blue toile,” he says. Opposite: Wonderful curves relax the eyes on the way to the bathroom. A rounded slab of marble rises from behind the tub and flows into the decorated cabinets. “My grandfather’s violin hangs on the wall just outside the bath, and I find that the gentle curve of the instrument is mirrored in the shape of the marble.”
All images are reprinted with permission from Marshall Watson: Defining Elegance (Rizzoli New York, 2025) by Marshall Watson and Marc Kristal. Photography by Luke White.
Crafted
with stunning
Intoxicating Beauty
aesthetics, today’s finest liquor containers are mood brighteners even before that first sip. But do taste what they hold.
In the world of fine spirits, artistry isn’t confined to what’s in the bottle—it often begins with the bottle itself. From hand-blown decanters to architecturally inspired vessels, today’s premium liquors are as much objets d’art as they are indulgent pours. Distillers and designers are collaborating as never before, creating limited-edition containers that marry craftsmanship with narrative, form with function. These
bottles command attention, invite conversation and often outlive their contents as collector’s items. Whether adorned with crystal, cloaked in leather or sculpted into surreal silhouettes, each design tells a story as nuanced as the spirit it holds. The curated selection below explores a mashup of aesthetic innovation and liquid luxury in which what you drink is rivaled only by what you’re drinking it from.
Remy Martin Louis XIII Cognac
A legendary sip deserves a decanter that’s just as iconic, and the Louis XIII Magnum is unlike any other vessel. Each bottle is individually numbered and handcrafted with distinctive curves, dentelle spikes and a fleur-de-lys motif. The liquor, aged in Limousin oak, is just as memorable, with an aroma resembling honey and plum and a taste of passion fruit and dried roses. Its finish is long and lingering with notes of vanilla and oak.
Patrón En Lalique Serie 2 Tequila
The limited-edition release combines celebrated French crystal craftsmanship with one of the world’s finest tequilas. The bottle exhibits an Art Deco style created using Lalique’s time-honored techniques, representative of Patrón’s handcrafted spirit. Aged for eight years in American and French oak as well as sherry barrels, the tequila features an aroma with vanilla and oak notes, while the tastes of sweet honey and fruit are detected on the palate. The finish is long, with hints of oak and agave.
Hardy Noces De Diamant
60-Year-Old Cognac
This six-decades-old cognac is a treat for the senses and a tribute to the place where it’s produced, France’s prestigious Grande Champagne district. To delight the eye, Hardy bottled the exquisite spirit in hand-cut Cristalleries des Vosges crystal decanters. Aged in Limousin oak, the cognac has spicy notes of bitter orange, prune and cinnamon on the nose. A silky texture with hints of orange and ginger caresses the palate, while the finish is smooth and long with traces of cinnamon.
The Montenegro-based producer teamed up with French crystal house Lalique to design a decanter that symbolizes the two brands’ shared values. Only 1,000 examples of this handblown and polished bottle were released, and each one has an engraved number on its base. The premium vodka has an aroma with hints of grain and a freshness that promises superior taste. On the palate, each sip is smooth with slight citrus notes. Its long-lasting finish invites another sip.
Blanton’s 2020 Special Edition Single Barrel Bourbon
Make any day feel like Derby Day when you reach for this elegant bottle. The timeless Kentucky design of this limited-edition release features a classic gold-andgreen palette, glossy gold foil and a gold horse and jockey. Inside is Blanton’s punchy, special-edition bourbon, which at 117 proof is higher than the standard original single barrel. It boasts notes of caramel, dark fruit and vanilla on the nose, with flavors of dried cherries, honey and vanilla on the palate.
Beluga Epicure Vodka
Fit to Be
A nod to black-tie glamour, our bow-inspired diamond designs bring red carpet refinement to your jewelry wardrobe.
1.25ctw Diamond Ribbon
Earrings, $5,250. 8.00ctw
Diamond Ribbon Choker Necklace, $32,500. 1.51ctw
Diamond Ribbon Ring, $4,750. All in 18K White Gold.
