BACHENDORFS

S P R I N G /S U M M E R 2 01 2T H E M AG A Z I N E O FL I F E ’ S C E L E B RAT I O N S

CELEBRATESPRING!Fashion Favorites

Watchmaking: The Next

Generation Last Bid for Love

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To Our Valued Customers and Friends,As the seasons pass, the days seem to get shorter and shorter. That's why it'seven more important to value every moment. My family has taken great pride inhelping our friends and clients achieve their maximum potential in gift giving.Now is the time to visit one of our beautiful stores and pick out that specialpiece of jewelry, watch or other gift for your loved one.

My job is to enhance your experience in gift giving at each location. That's why Ihave spent the past year designing and creating a new Rolex shop in theGalleria Mall. This store will be the first one of its kind in the area. We willreplace the existing crystal store with this new 800 square foot Rolexshowroom. In the back will be a new Rolex watchmaking and repair center,where the watchmaker will be in full view through a glass window. This newconcept store will launch later this spring.

Additionally, we have added many new designer jewelry brands for yourshopping pleasure. Many are featured in this edition of Accent magazine, whichwe hope you will enjoy with our compliments.

Please visit this new store or any one of our other locations. My trained andvalued sales associates are ready to help you anytime.

Enjoy!

Lawrence BockPresident

WELCOME

2

Galleria Level 113350 Dallas Parkway

Suite 1415Dallas, TX 75240(972) 392-9900

Shops at Legacy – North7401 Lone Star Drive

Suite B100Plano, TX 75024(972) 596-2090

Plaza at Preston Center8400 Preston Road

Dallas, TX 75225(214) 692-8400

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Contents spring/summer 2012

FOR

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S T O R E L O C AT I O N S :

P L A Z A AT P R E S T O N C E N T E R

8400 PRESTON ROAD

DALLAS, TX 75225

214-692-8400

G A L L E R I A L E V E L 1

13350 DALLAS PARKWAY

SUITE 1415

DALLAS, TX 75240

972-392-9900

S H O P S AT L E G A C Y– N O R T H

7401 LONE STAR DRIVE

SUITE B100

PLANO, TX 75024

972-596-2090

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

P U B L I S H E R

STU NIFOUSSI

E D I T O R - I N - C H I E F

KAREN ALBERG GROSSMAN

C R E AT I V E D I R E C T O R

HANS GSCHLIESSER

M A N A G I N G E D I T O R

JILLIAN LAROCHELLE

P R O J E C T M A N A G E R

LISA MONTEMORRA

D E S I G N E R S

CYNTHIA LUCERO

JEAN-NICOLE VENDITTI

P R O D U C T I O N M A N A G E R

PEG EADIE

P R E S I D E N T A N D C E O

BRITTON JONES

C H A I R M A N A N D C O O

MAC BRIGHTON

Prices are subject to change without notice and may vary

depending on size, quality and availability. Copyright 2012.

Accent® is published by Business Journals, Inc, P.O. Box 5550,

Norwalk, CT 06856, 203-853-6015 • Fax: 203-852-8175;

Advertising Office: 1384 Broadway, 11th Floor, NY, NY 10018, 212-

686-4412 • Fax: 212-686-6821; All Rights Reserved. The publish-

ers accept no responsibilities for advertisers’ claims, unsolicited

manuscripts, transparencies or other materials. No part of this

magazine may be reproduced without written permission of the

publishers. Volume 10, Issue 1. Accent® is a trademark of

Business Journals, Inc. registered in the U.S. Patent and

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

FEATURES 2 Welcome Letter

6 Events

8 Best Bets

10 Accent Advisor

12 Profile: Forevermark

14 From the Runways

18 Designers: Marco Bicego

20 Red Carpet: BlondeBombshells

34 Perfect Gems

38 Food: Making Magic

42 Wellness: Haute Healthcare

44 Culture: Café Society

48 End Page: Last Bid for Love

WATCH SECTION24 Watchmaking: Lititz

Watch Technicum

26 Winders: Winding it Up

30 Collecting: Time on His Side

32 Profile: Michele Watches

12

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GREER GARSON GALA

6

DALLAS BAR ASSOCIATIONRECEPTION

EVENTS AT BACHENDORF’S

JETS AND JEWELS TURTLE CREEK RECOVERY

Keana and Morgan Meyer Tricia and Randy Touchstone Rob Crain of Crain Lewis, L.L.P., Lisa Blue Baronand Brad Weber of Locke Lord LLP

Karaoke Lounge sponsors Mark and Cary Deuber, Danya and Mike Anderson

VIP event at the Rosewood Crescent Hotel sponsored byBachendorf’s and Million Air Dallas

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Hi Kay,Thank you again for all your help inmy search for the perfect engagementring setting for the diamond I hadalready purchased for my girlfriend.You went the extra mile assisting mein my selection and ensuring thestone would be set in time for mydesired proposal date. The completedring is beautiful, and I am happy tosay the proposal went off perfectly.She was geniunely surprised andoverwhelmed, as you can see in thephotos. Now, a few months later, shestill gushes to our friends and familythat it’s exactly what she wanted: theperfect setting and the perfect ring.

Sincerely, Andrew

PROPOSALIN THE PARK

TESTIMONIAL

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LAGOSSterling silver 9mmcaviar bracelet, fromthe Derby collection,$395

PANERAILuminor 1950 10 Days GMT, 44mm, Panerai P.2003 Calibre in brushed steel with black dialand antique brown alligator strap, water-resistant to 10 bar (100 meters), $17,900

KONSTANTINOSterling silver and 18K gold chandelierearrings with faceted London Blue andblue topaz, from the Thalassa collection, $1,450

LISA NIK20 mm amethystnecklace with diamondson an 18K rose goldchain, from the Rockscollection, $3,360

BestBetsBACHENDORF’S

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FRANCK MULLERConquistador GrandPrix with black titaniumand red ergal case on ablack alligator strap,$11,750

PENNY PREVILLE18K white gold and diamond ovalblue sapphire pendant (.47ct), $2,960

BREITLINGChronomat 44 withsteel and 18K rosegold case and onyxdial on a rubberstrap, $10,070

MARCO BICEGO18K hand-engravedgold double-claspJaipur link necklace,$25,080

AARON BASHA 18K white gold anddiamond shoecharm, 18K whitegold and diamondevil eye charm, 18-inch white goldchain with sixdiamond barrels,$7,300

SUWARing with 25 2.8mm round brilliant cutdiamonds, bar-set in three rows, 1.90ct(G/VS), back finished in an openhexagonal pattern, price upon request

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ACCENT(ADVISOR)

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I KNOW WOMEN WHOWEAR FASHION JEWELRYLIKE BANGLES OR BOLDCUFFS, BUT BUY THESEPIECES AT CLOTHINGSTORES AS OPPOSED TOJEWELERS (EVEN IF THEYHAVE TO REPURCHASETHE PIECES WHEN THEYTARNISH). WHAT AREYOUR THOUGHTS ON THIS? I think many women balancetrendy fashion jewelry that theydon’t expect to last foreverwith items that they cherish,wear often and want to last.Since a great bangle is a classicthat will be in style forever, it’sworth investing in somethingboth fabulous and enduring.

WHAT’STHEDIFFERENCEBETWEENANTIQUEJEWELRY ANDESTATEJEWELRY?“Estate” is a popular jewelry

label, but does not specify theperiod of manufacture. “Estate”is primarily used to describejewelry that is previously owned.

The term “antique” generallyapplies to jewelry items that areat least 100 years old, thebenchmark used by governmentofficials for duty-free importingof antiques.

For spring 2012, everythingold is new again, so considerboth of these options, or try re-setting one of your own familyheirlooms.

WHICH CLASSIC/TIMELESSPIECES ARE MOST LIKELYTO BECOME KEEPSAKES OR HEIRLOOMS? Those that hold their value, can be passed to the next generation, or the piece thatbecomes your signature. We have a client who is never (ever!) seen without a beautifulstrand of pearls that her husband bought her many years ago; whether at the grocerystore or at a gala, her pearls say it all. And that’s the key: finding a statement piece ofjewelry (“statement” need not mean “expensive”) and letting it become your trademark.We’ve noticed that when times are tougher and discretionary spending more limited,jewelry becomes even more personal and relationship-driven. If you buy only one itemthis year, make it special and enduring.

WHICH ITEMSSHOULD ICONSIDERBUYING THISSEASON?For both ladies and gents, a good watch is anabsolute must! If you can invest in only one greatpiece of jewelry, let it be a practical and stylishwatch to enjoy for many years. It should cross overinto any activity, and should dress up or down.

When you have more to invest, consider buyingboth a “dress” and a “sports” watch. But in theinterim, one great watch transcends numerousstyles and ventures!

Three other ideas for ladies: 1) a beautiful strandof pearls, either classic round or baroque (uneven)shaped; 2) diamond stud earrings, a true go-with-everything item to wear with denim or ball gowns;and 3) a necklace or pendant with personalmeaning, like your children’s names or initials, animportant date, a display of faith or spirituality. (Ifyou’ve ever noticed women constantly touchingtheir necklaces, it’s likely because they feel anemotional connection to the symbol.)

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For those who demand perfection, there are few options. Forevermark,part of the De Beers group (the foremost international diamond expertfor 120-plus years), offers only the finest carefully selected, responsibly

sourced diamonds, meticulously cut and inscribed by highly trained mastercraftsmen. Less than one percent of the world’s diamonds are eligible to bearthe Forevermark inscription and only a select group of jewelers (we amongthem) are authorized to sell these incredible gems.

Inscribed using highly advanced proprietary technology, thesesuperlative diamonds feature the Forevermark icon and a uniqueidentification number, both invisible to the naked eye. The actual size of theinscription is one 20th of a micron deep (one 500th the size of a human hair)and can be seen in our store using a special viewer.

Although the inscription in no way affects the exceptional internal qualityof the diamond, it does ensure beauty, rarity, responsible sourcing and addedsecurity. Expert gemologists at The Forevermark Diamond Institute inAntwerp assess each stone according to rigorous standards of integrity andaccuracy. The result is the Forevermark Diamond Grading Report, yourguarantee of excellence and authenticity.

Those of us who are socially conscious should know that Forevermarkdiamonds are guaranteed conflict-free. But more than that, the companygoes above and beyond industry standards to ensure that their sourcingactively benefits communities in their countries of origin, countriescommitted to the highest business, social and environmental standards.

Beauty, rarity and integrity in one quintessential diamond: No wonderForevermark is the jewel of choice for Gwyneth Paltrow, Uma Thurman,Nicole Kidman, Michelle Williams and fabulous women everywhere, on andoff the red carpet.

QUINTESSENTIALDIAMONDS

THERE ARE DIAMONDS, AND THERE ARE FOREVERMARK DIAMONDS.

BY KAREN ALBERG GROSSMAN

PROFILE

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FROM THE RUNWAYS

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RAINBOWBright


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DESIGNERS

WARM GOLD AND SATURATEDSEMI-PRECIOUS GEMS BRING MARCO

BICEGO’S SPRING COLLECTIONTO LIFE. BY JILLIAN LAROCHELLE

GETTING PERSONALWhat are you reading? I just bought a new apartment in Venice, so I’ve been looking to the shelter magazines for design inspiration. What are you wearing? I try to wear pieces that are relaxed and casualand fit into my everyday life—mostly Armani. What are you eating? Anything with fresh local ingredients and always vino!Where are you traveling? Basel, Switzerland to the jewelry fair todebut my newest collections.

COLOR POPS

In the 12 years since launching his collection, one thing has remainedunchanged for jewelry designer Marco Bicego: his love of gold. “Almostall of our collections are crafted from 18 karat yellow gold. It’s intrinsic

to our brand DNA,” says the Italian native with goldsmithing in his family’shistory. His loyalty to the metal makes for a smooth transition betweencollections and pieces that can always be mixed, matched and layered.

“I don’t really see jewelry as a trend,” Bicego tells us. “Each season ourcustomers gravitate towards certain [different] silhouettes, but there arealways constants in jewelry. It’s about a woman’s connection to a piece—anemotional feeling.”

This spring, the designer is excited to introduce his Africa collection,filled with long layering necklaces and colorful gems, which Bicego cites asabsolute must-haves for any woman looking to update her jewelrywardrobe. He has long been drawn to the beauty of Africa and was inspiredby unexpected natural elements, from baobab seeds to the stratified lavaof Kilimanjaro. “I was taken by the fascinating imperfections of yellow-goldjewels, similar to the imperfections found in the tribal jewels worn byAfrican women. The hand-engraved gold finishes generate warmth thatevokes the colors of the sub-Saharan land.” Bicego is an avid traveler andoften names his collections—Africa, Jaipur, Paradise, etc.—after thedestinations that inspire them.

When he’s not busy dreaming up new designs, Bicego relishes thechance to spend time with his wife and children, play in his local soccerleague and hunt for mushrooms. He can frequently be found outdoors,exploring his surroundings and searching for new ideas in “the beauty I findin everyday life, colors in nature and architectural design.” And of course,he adds, “I always try to imagine what my clients want to wear next!”

The bold spheresand jewels of theAfrica collectionare tangible andpronounced, yetremarkably light.

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Natural DiamondNot Synthetic

Color Grade

E

Clarity Grade

VS1

Cut Grade

Excellent

Laser Inscription Registry NumberGIA 16354621

Carat Weight

1.53

THE UNIVERSAL STANDARD BY WHICH GEMS ARE JUDGED.

PEACE OF MIND STARTS WITH PROOF OF QUALITY.

A GIA report is certainty from the source.

As creator of the 4Cs and the International Diamond Grading System,™

GIA sets the standards for diamond assessment, worldwide. Unbiased. Scientifi c.

A report from GIA gives you a clear understanding of your diamond’s quality.

Look for GIA Diamond Grading Reports and the jewelers who o! er them. www.4cs.gia.edu

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Though the Guess model-turned-actress is always striking, Amber Heard truly smoldered

at the SAG Awards. Her fitted black satin gown epitomized covered-up sexy, while sparkly

diamond studs and metallic smoky eyes added just the right amount of shimmer.

Zac Efron and Michelle Pfeiffer sure made a good looking pair at the New Years Eve premiere.

Yellow gold and pink tourmaline chandelier earrings lit up Pfeiffer’s face and helped prepetuate

that youthful glow. We don’t know how she does it.

For Showtime’s Emmy Nominee Reception at the Mondrian Los Angeles, Claire Danes chose

pavé diamond drop earrings that popped against the silvery threads of her dress. With a confident

RED CARPET

Blonde BombshellsWITH LIGHT LOCKS AND HEAD-TO-TOE STYLE,

WE’D GIVE THESE STUNNING CELEBS AN AWARD ANY DAY. BY JILLIAN LAROCHELLE

AMBER HEARD ZAC EFRON & MICHELLE PFEIFFER CLAIRE DANES

HEA

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smile, flushed cheeks and dewey décolletage, the nominee for Best Actress in a TV Drama looked

like a winner long before they called her name.

Stacy Keibler knows how to accessorize. Adorable arm-candy aside, the former Ravens

cheerleader still looks sensational in the old purple and black, topped off with teardrop earrings,

stacked bangles and a notice-me cocktail ring. As if we wouldn’t have noticed her without it.

All tassel, no hassle! Katherine Heigl’s blue sapphire and black rough-cut diamond earrings lent

an effortless glamour to her gown at the 39th Annual American Music Awards. Paired with a

sparkly strap and matte red lips, the look recalled old Hollywood at its best.

Nothing amps up a little black dress like a statement necklace. At the L.A. premiere of The

Mighty Macs, Marley Shelton chose this blackened beauty to elevate her outfit from ho-hum to

yum! Kelly Osbourne, Kate Mara and Kristin Cavallari have recently been spotted in identical

designs; you can bet that style-savvy ladies everywhere are following suit.

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STACY KEIBLER & GEORGE CLOONEY KATHERINE HEIGL MARLEY SHELTON

KEI

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As the premier shopping and dining destination of North Texas, Galleria Dallas will help you make the best of every season. Find all the finest styles at Bachendorf’s, Façonnable, Karen Millen, Michael Kors, St. Croix, Tourneau, TOUS, Thomas Pink and more. Then enjoy our delicious dining options including The Grill on the Alley, Grand Lux Cafe, The Second Floor Bistro and Townhouse Kitchen & Bar.

A spectrum of s ty le.Macy ’s, Nordstrom, Saks Fi f th Avenue

galleriadallas.com | I-635 at Dallas North Tollway | 972.702.7100


WATCHESACCENT MAGAZINE SPECIAL SECTION SPRING/SUMMER 2012

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FOCUS: WATCHMAKING by Karen Alberg Grossman

The first thing one notices upon entering the stately stone buildingnestled in the rolling hills of Lititz, Pennsylvania (a town with astrong watchmaking tradition) is the magnificent brass clock in the

lobby. One soon learns it was crafted totally by hand by students in thisRolex-sponsored watch school, under the direction of its esteemedprincipal Herman Mayer.

Mayer is a certified watchmaker with tremendous pride in, andrespect for, the Swiss watchmaking tradition. His goal is to developindependent retail watchmakers who are technically exceptional, ofcourse, but who are also business-savvy, service-oriented, personable,well rounded and creative, a tall order to say the least. “The watchmakerof today needs to be compatible and in sync with the spirit of the high-end watch culture,” Mayer maintains.

His intense two-year program, establishedin 2001, is fully funded by Rolex (but totallyseparate from the Rolex Service Centerupstairs in the building). Mayer is personallyresponsible for creating and updating thecurriculum, which is also used at watchmakingschools in Seattle and Oklahoma. It features sixmain areas of training: history/culture, micro-mechanics, mechanical movement diagnostics

and repair, electronic movement diagnostics and repair, customer serviceand case/bracelet diagnostics and repair.

The school is small and selective, with a capacity for only 28 students(there are currently 12 first year students and 13 in their second year). It’san intense eight-hour school day (7:30 to 4:00, with a 30 minute lunchbreak) and requires much outside reading and research. According toMayer, most students are highly motivated and even talk watchmaking intheir free time. “We emphasize that whatever they don’t learn in these twoyears, they pay for later on…”

Of utmost importance to Mayer, who interviews and tests 70 to 80applicants each year looking for various skills, from strategic reasoningto social competence, is abstract thinking. “Because often in a fine

watch,” he explains, “you can’t diagnoseproblems just visually. You need to analyzebased on input and output of the mechanism:it’s behaving a certain way so the problemmust be this or that. You can’t always see theproblem because many watches are built inlayers, so the movements might be covered,or else just too small.”

Mayer admits that among his greatestfrustrations is a decline in abstract thinking

LITITZ WATCH TECHNICUM: TEACHING WATCHTHINK

A REMARKABLE SCHOOL THAT INSTRUCTS THE ART, SCIENCE

AND SOUL OF SWISS WATCHMAKING.

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skills among young people over the past decade. “I’m sorry to say this,but in many applicants, these skills have gone down the drain. It’s a veryvisual world these days; we rely on computers to do everything soyoung people don’t learn to think for themselves. But in a watchmakingcurriculum, abstract thinking skills are essential. It’s all about deductivereasoning, which is no longer taught in school…”

Why are these skills so critical? “Because evenif the student has worked on hundreds of watches,the next movement that comes along might betotally different than anything he’s experienced. Soit’s not a matter of simply learning to piece thepuzzle together: students need to understand whatthe parts do and how they interact and whether ornot the watch is worth repairing. Of course it’s rarewhen you can’t fix it at all (e.g. serious salt waterdamage where parts are caked together), becauseeven if spare parts are not available, we can alwaysmake the parts. That’s what we teach them in the‘micromechanics’ segment of the program.”

According to Mayer, his ideal applicant is mid-to late 20s (the actual age range is 17 to 45 andmostly male; there are only one or two females perclass), in a second career but with some previousexposure to watchmaking. “If they’ve had someexposure, at least they know what the profession isabout: having to deal all day long with these tinyparts, the responsibility of working on suchvaluable pieces. Of course, there are always somewho drop out because it’s too stressful…” Recentapplicants have included bankers and real estatebrokers, some from major cities. “People havemore appreciation for job security when it’s a second career,” he explains.“And watchmaking certainly offers job security: all of our graduates whowant jobs get them.”

Beyond technical expertise (which Mayer believes can be taught),

the most important trait is the desire—the passion—to repair and buildwatches. Also necessary is the ability to communicate. Explains Mayer,“It’s essential that we teach students how to network: with peers, withmentors, with superiors, so they’re not left alone with importantdecisions. In fact, I’m working on making this an active component of

the curriculum.” On a personal note, Mayer grew up in

Würzburg, Germany; his university studies focusedon philology and teaching. But at some point, hislove of watches inspired him to study watchmaking,which led him to servicing jobs in the States, andultimately to Lititz.

In addition to restoring watches, Mayer is acollector: he wears a different watch every day andfavors those that combine technical precision with abeautiful finish. So dedicated is Mayer to the Lititzprogram that he even lets his students work on hispersonal watches (excluding vintage handmadepieces, of course!). His first expensive watch was infact a classic Rolex. Does he still have it? “Of course:Rolex watches are forever…”

His most meaningful watch is one he inheritedfrom his father. “When my dad returned from WWII,the economy was down so he drove a taxi onweekends. An American soldier who couldn’t affordthe fare gave him his automatic Cyma. I wore it everyday for years but at some point, it was difficult to getreplacement parts because their factory had burneddown. Observing the watchmaker adapting spareparts by hand was my first exposure to the craft andits artistry, which triggered my lifelong passion.”

Mayer’s best advice to graduating students? “Remember to take theloupe off on occasion and engage in meaningful, positive dialogue withmembers of your professional environment. You need to actively live theexciting and ever-evolving watchmaking culture you are part of.”

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“Nobody buysa fine watch justto tell time…” —Herman Mayer

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FOCUS: WINDERS by Laurie Kahle

Like early automatic wristwatches designed to eliminate the need forwinding, watch winders originated as practical items to keeptimepieces ready for action at all times. Aside from the convenience

factor, winders can also extend the life of a watch movement. Theyensure that essential lubricants are evenly distributed throughout themechanism, and reduce wear and tear on the crown winding system bylimiting the need for resetting. But as watch collecting becomes a

consuming passion for many affluent consumers, some are seeking evermore elaborate storage systems to keep their horological treasuresenergized and secure. From models with high-concept designs featuringinlaid wood cabinetry and carbon fiber accents, to humidor componentsand stereo systems, winders have entered the realm of luxuryfurnishings with an array of options to create a personalized unit—theultimate of which is a completely custom installation. (Continued)

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WINDING IT UPTRANSCEND SHEER FUNCTION WITH A STYLISH CUSTOM INSTALLATION.

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Upon his retirement in the 1990s, Chuck Agnoff, founder and presidentof Orbita in Wilmington, N.C., received a gold Rolex automatic watch fromhis wife. He wore the watch on weekends, and found himself frustrated bythe need to constantly reset it when the power reserve ran out. He solved theproblem by devising a “gadget,” as he calls it, tokeep the watch moving when it wasn’t on his wrist.Soon, friends and jewelers started making requests,and Orbita was born. “First and foremost it was aconvenience,” he explains. “But later, I learned thatwhen a watch lays flat for a long time, the lubricantscan wick away from moving parts, so keeping yourwatch on a winder is also about preventativemaintenance that can extend its life.”

Orbita’s recent Avanti system was designed toaccommodate your ever-growing collection andcater to your personal needs. “It became a sort oflifestyle cabinet,” says Agnoff of the expandablestorage system that incorporates drawers where you can install a safe, ahumidor, a wine cooler, or other options. You can store up to 48 watches in theItalian-made Macassar or burl wood cabinets. “It’s a semi-custom winder,”explains Agnoff, “so it is priced economically because it’s built off a standardconfiguration—like buying a car and adding options.”

A similar made-to-measure approach is taken at Buben & Zorweg ofAustria. Known for its modern, slick aesthetic, the company can expand andtailor their winders to your wishes, or you can choose a custom installation.The Treasury, for example, presents an array of 10 interchangeable modules

that include winding modules for four or 16 watches, a humidor, displaycabinets for barware and red wine, and storage drawers for manual watchesand jewelry.

The brand’s limited-edition Objects of Time collection includes a modelproduced in partnership with Aston Martin. TheObject of Time One-77 (pictured above) seamlesslycombines a safe, a collection of the brand’sproprietary Time Mover watch winders, humidors,storage drawers, four world clocks, a sound systemwith a subwoofer and iPod docking station, and aflying minute tourbillion clock. The striking designemulates the muscular curves of the One-77supercar, which, like the winder, has a limitedproduction of 77 pieces.

The next level of watch storage is building acustom room, like the space commissioned by one ofOrbita’s West Coast clients. “It was a unique project,”

explains Agnoff. “He was building a new house and wanted a security room(basically an exhibition area) for all his watches, so he could relax and enjoyhis collection.” The project involved constructing a room with built-in storageunits that hold 108 winders for automatic timepieces, in addition to storagedrawers for over 200 watches. “But very few people want to go through thatkind of process—starting from scratch and working with architects,” saysAgnoff, who said the project cost around $125,000 and required six to eightmonths from concept to completion.

Luckily, you have options.

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Winders have entered the realm

of luxury furnishingswith an array of

options to create apersonalized unit.

The design of the Object of Time One-77 watch winder (above, right) emulates the muscular curves of the Aston Martin One-77 supercar.

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SEREIN DIAMOND

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FOCUS: COLLECTING by David A. Rose

Among the many rewards of successin sports, perhaps the best isgarnering the respect and

admiration of fans and peers. But for thoseathletes competing in Rolex-sponsoredevents, the grand prize comes in the form ofa luxury timepiece, a goal drivers set forthemselves long before they’re strappedinto their racecars.

One man, Scott Pruett from Auburn,California, is a true champion in all forms ofmotor sports, with the additional honor ofhaving won more Rolex-sponsored racesthan any other driver. Thus, he has becomethe proud owner of racing’s largest collection of Rolex timepieces.

Pruett has won the Rolex 24 at Daytona four times. He’s also wonthe Grand-Am Rolex Sports Car Series Championship three times andwas awarded a Rolex timepiece for each of these accomplishments. Inall, Scott owns 12 Rolex timepieces, of which 10 were awarded for hisbrilliant race wins.

“My first Rolex is by far the one I love the most,” he confides. “WhenI won the Championship in 1986 while driving for Jack Roush and FordMotor Company, I was invited to compete in what was known as theInternational Race of Champions (IROC). It was such an honor just to beinvited to compete in this series, and I promised myself that if I wereever to win one of these races, I’d go out and buy myself a Rolextimepiece. At the last race ever to run at Riverside Raceway in California,and with just a few laps left in the race, I took the lead and held on totake the win. The first thing I did after that was to go out and buy myfirst beautiful Rolex Submariner.” (In addition to this Submariner, Pruettalso bought himself a solid gold GMT-Master.)

As a world famous racecar driver stillat the top of his game, it’s remarkable thatPruett makes time for other ventures. Heand his wife Judy have joined forces toestablish Pruett Vineyard, as well as WordWeaver Books, publishers of a series ofchildren’s books they authored. Notsurprisingly, the theme is racing, includingtitles like Twelve Little Race Cars, RookieRacer and Racing Through the Alphabet.Based on actual aspects of Scott’s racingcareer, these books provide inspiration andexcitement for young readers.

As for his winemaking business,Pruett explains that even though racing and winemaking are spectrumsapart, the feelings of accomplishment are similar. “Racing is literallyminute to minute, day to day; things happen in a matter of seconds.Wine making, on the other hand, takes years: you can’t rush the process;the wine absolutely tells you when it’s ready. But it’s the blend ofchemistry and artistry in winemaking that I find so rewarding. I’m notone of these athletes who puts my name on a project withoutinvolvement; in fact, I am totally hands on at my winery, involved inevery aspect of the process (pressing, corking, labeling), with the help ofsome incredible winemakers.”

Scott Pruett began his career in karting at the age of eight and has racedevery year since. 2011 was his 43rd year of racing and it was anotherextraordinary one. With teammate Memo Rojas, Pruett won the Grand-AmRolex Sports Car Series Championship, earning yet another Rolex timepiece.“At 51 years old, I’m racing against drivers half my age,” says Pruett, “sobeing the fastest driver out there is incredible! But I never take it for granted:I’ve been blessed with this ability and feel very fortunate.”

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TIME ON HIS SIDESCOTT PRUETT IS AN UNDISPUTED CHAMPION, ON AND OFF THE TRACK.

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FOCUS: PROFILE by Randi Molofsky

Awalk through the historic district of downtown Miami encapsulatesmuch of Michele Watches’ telltale brand appeal: both share an ArtDeco design sensibility, vibrant color palette and bold sense of style.

It’s no wonder Michele is favored by a fashion-forward clientele with aninnate understanding of classic design.

From speedboats to soirees, everything is a little bigger in Miami.The same is true for Michele, as oversized cases emphasize a bit offlash and a signature red button logo creates instant cachet. Miami’sseaside location also necessitates a certain day-to-nighttime glam.Lounging poolside? Bold chronographs with rubber straps from theJelly Bean collection or a sporty white Tahitian Ceramic are chicstandouts. When the sun goes down, diamond-studded timepiecesmake a big statement at affordable prices.

Spring 2012 brings a refined update on Michele’s instantly

recognizable style. Serein, inspired by the Cloette, features a modern takeon a timeless design. A silvery-white dial highlights a fine circular patternand oversized Roman numerals. The Caber Sport maintains the Caber’sround case and T-bar design, now updated with a scalloped bezel andchronograph dial (available with or without diamonds).

One of Michele’s most popular styles, Tahitian Jelly Beans, is alsoreinvented this year in new brights and beach-inspired pastels. Look-at-me neons like pink, blue and green are balanced by seaside neutrals inmint, coral and steel.

Want to make a unique statement any time of year? The brand’scommitment to practicality and fun led them to offer a stunning variety ofstraps that are easily mixed and matched. From alligator to glittery leather,cobalt blue to rainbow stripes, a sense of play makes punctuality a breeze,whether or not you can make it down to North Beach.

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SO HOT THEY’RE COOLMICHELE OFFERS STYLES FOR EVERY SETTING.

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EXPLORE THE LITTLE LUXURIES THE WORLD HAS TO OFFER.BY DONALD CHARLES RICHARDSON

STEP IN STYLELocated in a small shop on New York City’s East Side,designer Barbara Barran’s Classic Rug Collection putsfashion underfoot with fascinating custom rugs. Herunique creations can be seen in very stylish homes allover the world, as well as the Whitney Museum, theSmithsonian, and other museum stores. Barran’s rugs,inspired by everything from Art Deco to traditionalAmerican quilts and her personal passion, Eastern art,are made of natural fibers including wool, silk,pashmina, hemp, linen, nettle and banana silk. She’sthe only rug designer in the U.S. to offer hand-knottedrugs from Nepal in 300 knot silk. Go barefoot!

A CHÂTEAU IN NORMANDYAt the end of a boulevard shaded with ancient trees, past clusters of huge roses in brilliant, almost illusory colors is the Château La Cheneviere. Thegrand three-story mansion, built in the 18th century, is set in the Normandy countryside, between the exquisite town of Bayeux and the historic beaches,in Port-en-Bessin. During WWII the residence was occupied by the Germans, then by the Americans after the June 1944 landing. Restored in 1988, themanor became a fully equipped hotel and restaurant, with a swimming pool, lovely terrace and beautiful views. Each guest room has a different décor,some with marble fireplaces, others with private patios. An intimate bar leads to a graceful dining room, where the brilliant chef uses local produce topresent the distinctive and legendary dishes of Normandy.

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REST ASSUREDHôtel Le Toiny is, if possible, even morefashionable and exclusive than the island of St.Barth’s itself. Set away from the throngs on agently sloping hillside in the Côte Sauvage area,each of the 15 luxurious private villas has its owngated entrance and a red mailbox flag thatserves as a “Do Not Disturb” sign. Inside, enjoynetting-draped four-poster mahogany beds,high-tech entertainment centers andkitchenettes. Outside, you’ll find private plungepools and incredible views across the lush hills toa beach, popular with surfers. The sommelier hasselected superb wines and the chef createsamazing dishes (including the hotel’s signaturepasta in cream with black truffles). If you chooseto stir from your villa, arrangements can be madefor a sunset cruise or a fishing expedition. Or, youcan just put up your flag, order the excellentroom service, and hide out like the other privacy-seeking celebrity guests.

HOUSTON, WE HAVE ARTInspired by the celebrated French inn, Houston’s La Colombe d’Orhotel takes its muse seriously. This 1923 mansion, located near themuseum district, owns an extensive art collection that includesCorot, Matisse and Chagall, as well as the 1715 panels, thought to beone of the finest examples of authentic French Regence décor inNorth America. When staying in one of the hotel’s rooms or villas(like the Cezanne Suite, pictured above), art- and food-lovingguests can arrange to take a personal tour of the collection, thendine on Pan-seared Chilean Sea Bass or Stuffed Quail, (naturallypaired with the appropriate wines) and Champagne sorbet, createdby chef Jeramie Robison in the hotel’s famed Restaurant CINQ.

BUBBLES IN THE AIRPops for Champagne is one of Chicago’s most elegant nightclubs,presenting a Champagne list comprising nearly 200 selections.Beverage director W. Craig Cooper offers the lowdown onChampagne for the summer: "When the mercury rises, it is alwaysbetter to select a drier Champagne. A higher dosage [sweetnesslevel] in a sparkling wine can be cloying when the weather is warmand balmy....” Cooper suggests Laurent-Perrier Ultra Brut.“Composed of 60% Pinot Noir and 40% Chardonnay, this wine…isperhaps one of the best of all Champagnes to pair withoysters…but can go just as well with a simple summer crudité.”Here’s to a sparkling summer!

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For those who dig classic conceptual cuisine outside of the traditionalrestaurant box setup, David Burke has becomesomewhat of a hero. In addition to his classic

surf and turf joints, Chef Burke holds court with hisfancy foods inside a Bloomingdale’s, a bowling alleyand an airport. If by chance you don’t recognize theoft-showy culinologist (an expert who blends culinaryarts and food technology) with a penchant forwhimsically sculpting his dishes to dazzlediners by name, there’s still a decentchance you’ve eaten in one of his 10restaurants, or purchased his gourmetproducts. (“Burke in the Box” take-out meal at Las Vegas’ McCarranAirport, anyone?) Or perhaps you’llrecall his very near win against BobbyFlay on Iron Chef, or his too-early kiss-off from Top Chef Masters.

Chef Burke has been a longtimepioneer in the biz of celebrity chefery,cooking up a career that “blurs the linesbetween chef, artist, entrepreneur and

inventor.” His factory of fabulous foodspots tantalizes taste buds through aslew of dramatically different spaces, with entertaining concoctionsappearing on plates throughout New York, and in New Jersey, Chicago,Connecticut and Las Vegas. Then there’s David Burke Townhouse, DavidBurke’s Primehouse, Fromagerie, David Burke Prime, Fishtail by DavidBurke and David Burke Kitchen. Burke is also the mastermind behindPastrami Salmon, GourmetPops, flavor-transfer spice sheets and variousflavor sprays and oils. He’s got two cookbooks and even DAVID BURKE

Magazine. We managed to catch this Renaissance man at his localgreenmarket, shopping for fresh, in-season finds.

You have so many titles! Chef, entrepreneur, artist,inventor.... Which do you feel describes you best?I’ve always felt at home in the kitchen. I was a dish washerin high school. I’d work on the weekends, and that’s when Ifell in love with the idea of working in a kitchen. I get realexcitement from the energy and creative teamwork that

happens in there. So all of the other things I am today cameout of me working in the kitchen. I get a real satisfaction out

of putting together a good product for someone else to enjoy.

MAKING MAGICIN THE FIRST INSTALLMENT OF OUR LEGENDARY CHEF SERIES, WE DISCOVER THAT

DAVID BURKE IS MUCH MORE THAN A WHIZ IN THE KITCHEN. BY SHIRA LEVINE

FOOD

Above: The lively dining room at Fishtail by David Burke.Left: David Burke, longtime pioneer of celebrity chefery.

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Many of today’s entrepreneurial celebrity chefs don’t actuallydo the cooking anymore, but shift their focus to the businessside of things. I still do cook in my kitchens, but it’s been a natural progression for me tobe in and out of the kitchen when need be. I made an early decision that Iwas going to conquer one level of this business at a time. After I reachedthe level of what I truly felt was “me as a good chef,” then it was time to bepartner in a company. Then the next course was to start my own company.I was one of the first chefs to do that. That road had not been paved yet. Itwas the late ’70s and the beginning of modern American food and of chefsas businessmen.

A lot of the David Burke dining experience is about setting thescene, and your restaurants each have very specific, thought-out designs. Would you describe yourself as fashion forward?When you work in the kitchen it’s nearly impossible to be fashion forward!But we do take a lot of pride in the ambiance and décor of the restaurants,especially Townhouse and Kitchen. I was very involved in helping decoratethem, but I’m not a designer. Kitchen is supposed to feel dark and woodsy,comfy—like a home. Bloomingdale’s has an intimate neighborhood feel. Oursteakhouses are more masculine.

What are some other ideas you’re currently excited about?We have a moveable garden in a parking lot at the Rumsfield, New Jerseyrestaurant. This summer we’re going to put each of the gardens in little redwagons so they can move around easily. When guests walk into therestaurant, they will be greeted with a bushel of tomatoes and basil plantsthat they can cut themselves and bring to the hostess. Then we’ll prepare itat the table as part of their appetizer. I just love the idea of that.

What’s your overall food philosophy?I’m always looking to cut out the middleman as much as possible. It’s whatis most economically sound for us. I am always in a local produce marketmyself. We’ve done it with our bread, our dairy and our produce. Fish andseafood are next. We’re also currently building a dry beef company with mypatented salt treatment. Our beef comes from right here in New Jersey. Ibought a bull five years ago in Kentucky so I would know exactly where mybeef comes from and can ensure the quality of what we’re serving. We havethe product down to the genetics, for the perfect marbleization and grading.It was superior planning on our part. We always want to know where ourstuff is coming from.

Do you think all the recent hype around “local” and “seasonal”is silly? Haven’t good chefs been doing this all along? The seasonal and local thing has been done forever, but it hasn’t beentouted. It’s being emphasized now because of the the state of the economy,and high fuel prices. All the recent PR is good, especially since it helpssupport American farmers, but it’s always been what we try to do. However,you have to understand, it’s hard to do local in Chicago in the winter. It’sabsolutely what the mom and pop shops should be aiming for, but it’s hardfor big [national] chains to do it. It’s tough to be 100 percent local; youmight simply not have a good local person for something you need.

How do you please loyal customers who request something thatisn’t in season?In New Jersey we have a lot of clientele who want calamari, but it’s not local

there. In those cases we make exceptions—it’s what the customers want!But when it comes to fruit and people wanting raspberries or blueberriesyear round, we suggest maybe trying a dish with mango or pineapple.

Your menus run the deliciously garish gamut, from BowlmorLanes’ badass burger replete with applewood-smoked bacon,spicy tempura shrimp, cheddar cheese and blue cheese slaw, toDavid Burke Kitchen’s pretzel crabcake with tomato, orangeand green peppercorn. What do you love to order when you eatout, and what do you like to cook at home? I love ordering Peking duck! For myself, I love to prepare pasta. I’ll makegemelli with sweet sausage, tomatoes, olive oil and butter. When I cook forfriends and family, I love to prepare a whole roasted fish, chicken, squab orturkey. My favorite is roasted squab foie gras, cabbage with corn bread andpickled onions.

Is there anything you wish your guests would be a little moreadventurous about trying?Game birds, sweet potatoes and kidneys!

Maple Bacon DatesYields 20 stuffed dates

INGREDIENTS:1⁄4 pound peanuts2 1⁄2 ounces honey1 teaspoon cayenne pepper or 1⁄2 minced jalapeño 20 Medjool dates, cut in half 10 strips of par-baked smoked bacon20 seedless grapes 1 eggFlourBreadcrumbs

METHOD: 1. Heat peanuts, honey and cayenne pepper until caramelized.Cool and puree.2. Stuff puree into Medjool date half, then wrap with a half pieceof par-baked smoked bacon. 3. Lightly beat egg. Dredge grapes in flour, dip in egg wash,then breadcrumbs. Place into a deep fryer filled with hot oil andfry until crispy.4. Place grapes, and then bacon wrapped dates, on bambooskewers and serve.

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When was the last time you went to a spinning class with yourdoctor? How about bike riding or grocery shopping together?Like fashion and jewelry trends, healthcare trends evolve. One

“new” trend (it’s actually been around for a decade) is concierge medicine. Also referred to as boutique medicine, concierge medicine often works

with insurance or Medicare, offering members 24/7 access to their primarycare physicians, immediate appointments, better connections to topspecialists and, in some cases, house calls. (In order to participate, patientsalso pay a fee independent of insurance.) This unique approach is designednot only to enhance routine exams and the treatment of illnesses, but alsoto educate patients and create awareness in preventive care. The theory isthat a closer doctor-patient relationship encourages the patient to becomesavvy and proactive enough to ward off ailments that can lead to sickness.

One trendsetter in concierge medicine is MDVIP, a company withover 175,000 patients and 500 physicians in its network across 34 statesand the District of Columbia. Annual memberships range from $1,500 to$1,800. MDVIP was founded in 2001 by two primary care physicians whowanted to focus on personalized care and a reinvention of the primarycare model. “These doctors believed there had to be a better way to putthe patient first, emphasizing not just treating people after they becamesick, but actually helping them stay healthy,” says Mark Murrison,MDVIP’s president of marketing and innovation. According to Murrison,the average primary care practice has about 2,400 patients, so it’s notunusual for doctors to see around 35 to 40 patients in a typical day. It’s

estimated most doctors spend approximately eight minutes or less witheach patient, which Murrison believes is barely enough time to addressthe symptoms or underlying causes of an illness. MDVIP doctors captheir practice at 600 patients, with about 10 to 12 patient visits per day,allowing for higher levels of specialized care. Data shows MDVIP has apatient yearly renewal rate of 92%, with a patient satisfaction rate of96%. There’s also evidence that MDVIP members are hospitalizedsignificantly less than non-MDVIP members—Medicare beneficiarieshave 75% fewer hospitalizations and insured patients 65% fewer.

Other member-based companies are gaining recognition forinfusing traditional medicine with specialized care. WhiteGlove Health,based in Austin, Texas, works primarily with self-insured companies,helping them with costs and enabling them to provide betterhealthcare to their employees and dependents. Their model involvesmobile primary care, essentially house calls, where a nurse practitionercomes to a member’s home, workplace, hotel room, etc., offeringdedicated care for both acute and chronic illnesses, wellnesscounseling, diagnostic testing and prescription medications. “It’s likeMarcus Welby: the good old fashioned house call that we’ve broughtback and made affordable,” says Michael Cohen, VP of marketing.

Clearly, concierge medicine has the potential for significant growth.With an estimated 5,000-plus physicians now practicing it, it might just bea matter of time before you too are organizing bike rides and supermarketoutings with your doctor in order to stay healthy.

HAUTE HEALTHCAREBOUTIQUE MEDICINE IS ALL THE RAGE. BY LISA MONTEMORRA MENGHI

WELLNESS

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Long before “café culture” flourished in Paris and Vienna, it thrived inBudapest. The joy of coffee drinking was introduced by the invadingOttoman Turks in the 1500s, and by Budapest’s Golden Age,

between 1870 and 1910, there were some 500 coffee houses in the city.In their heyday, Budapest’s cafés were cherished rendezvous spots for

aspiring writers, poets, artists and intelligentsia of all stripes. People spenthours in their favorite café, sharing ideas and reading the many newspapersand periodicals available to patrons. Before the age of television and theInternet, for up-to-the-minute news and the most interesting gossip, you’dhead to one of these cafés.

During this period, the cafés were so central to daily life that when thefirst early film reels appeared, they were projected on walls in the cafés.(Two eventual film industry giants, director and producer Sir AlexanderKorda and Oscar-winning director Michael Curtiz, were first introduced tomovies this way. Later on, in Casablanca, Curtiz would recreate Budapest’scafé atmosphere on the set of Rick’s Café.)

Most of the classic Budapest coffee houses had sumptuous interiors,plush furnishings, gleaming chandeliers, and high, frescoed ceilings to rivalthe Sistine Chapel. But, after two World Wars and the Communist era inHungary, the old famous cafés had been destroyed or closed. In recent years,many of these once-grand cafés have been restored to their original splendor.

NEW YORK CAFÉ Opened in 1894 on the ground floor of a stylish officecomplex, designed by architect Alajos Hauszmann and financed by a New Yorklife insurance company, the café was a favorite haunt of the writers and editorswho worked in the building (now a five-star Boscolo hotel). For strugglingwriters, the New York provided free ink and paper and offered a low-cost“writer’s menu” (bread, cheese and cold cuts). During Budapest’s Golden Age,much of the city’s creative business took place here or at the Café Central.

CAFÉ CENTRÁL Opened in 1887, the Central was a popular meetingplace for writers, poets, editors and artists. In the 1890s, writers sitting

CAFÉ SOCIETYAT BUDAPEST’S FAMOUS CAFÉS, OLD WORLD CHARM IS NEW AGAIN.

BY JACQUELIN CARNEGIE

CULTURE

Above: New York Café; during Budapest’s Golden Age, it was ahotbed of creative activity.

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around the café began an influential literary periodical, A Hét (Week). A fewyears later, another group of regulars, who divided their time between theCentral and the New York, launched Nyugat (West), which became one ofthe most influential Hungarian literary journals of the early 20th century.

CAFÉ GERBEAUD Founded by confectioner Henrik Kugler in 1858, thisis regarded as one of the most elegant and refined cafés. In 1884, its Swisspastry chef, Emile Gerbeaud, took over the establishment, making it asfamous for its cakes as its coffee.

BOOKCAFÉ PÁRIZSI ÁRUHÁZ This stunning café is located on the thirdfloor of what is now the Alexandra bookstore. The Art Nouveau building,designed by Zsigmond Sziklai, was opened in 1911 as Párizsi Nagy Árúház,Budapest’s first modern department store. The café, in Lotz hall, isresplendent with restored frescos (done by painter Károly Lotz), largemirrors and magnificent chandeliers.

MÛVÉSZ KÁVÉHÁZ Around since 1898, its name mûvész means artist.Since the café is located opposite the Budapest State Opera House, it hasattracted its fair share of artists and performers over the years.

CAFÉ GERLÓCZY On a leafy square, in a pretty 1892 building, theGerlóczy has the feel of a Parisian café with its wonderful croissants andfreshly-baked pastries—some consider it the best breakfast in town. Atnight, a harpist adds to the atmosphere. Another unique Gerlóczy offering:15 stylish rooms in its upstairs boutique hotel, so you never have to leave!

Clockwise from top:Centrál Kávéház, apopular meetingplace for writers,poets and artists.The elegant CaféGerbeaud.BookCafé PárizsiÁruház in Lotz hallin the AlexandraBookstore.

Budapest’s Famous CafésThe best time to visit Budapest is between March and October; Delta and American Airlinesoffer direct flights. Visit www.gotohungary.com tolearn more.

New York Café New York Palace Hotel at Erzsébet körút9-11; www.newyorkcafe.hu

Café Centrál Károlyi Mihály utca 9www.centralkavehaz.hu

Café Gerbeaud Vörösmarty tér 7; www.gerbeaud.hu

BookCafé Párizsi Áruház, Alexandra bookstore, Andrássy út 39

Mûvész Kávéház Andrássy út 29; www.muveszkavehaz.hu

Café Gerlóczy Gerloczy u. 1; www.gerloczy.hu

For an interesting read, try The Great Escape. Thiswonderful book by Kati Marton, about influentialHungarians, describes life in the Budapest cafés at theturn of the 20th century.

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My heart was pounding as I handed my passport to the smartlydressed associate from Christie’s. Just a week before, I’d beenholding the “hottest ticket in town”—a prime 3 p.m. pass to

preview the world-renowned jewelry collection of Elizabeth Taylor. The entireChristie’s block was lined with stately private limos dropping off elegantlydressed “ladies who lunch,” no doubt fresh from nibbling on micro-vegetablesalads and savory soufflés at La Grenouille.

In addition to the magnificent jewels, what struck me as I perused thevarious lots at the preview was how many lives Elizabeth Taylor hadtouched. In every room of the seemingly endless exhibit, peoplepassionately discussed her movies, her personal style, her tremendousinfluence. Women well past their fashion prime whispered about how this1960s Pucci tunic or that 1970s Halston caftan had inspired their ownwardrobe choices. My personal connection with this incredible lady wasour shared astrological sign: Elizabeth Taylor was the archetype of Pisces’“soulful eyes” and tendency to be “in love with love.”

The cheerful Christie’s associate wished me luck as she handed me mypaddle—number 5217. I tried to calm my nerves as I mounted the stairs tothe James Christie room. Working my way through the television cameras,I settled into a fifth row seat right under the auctioneer. I took a cue fromthe “serious” bidders in the rows ahead of me and stayed focused on the

bidding board and the auctioneer in his lavender silk tie. I had carefully studied the catalogs, settling on two lots of Zodiac

pendants and a lot of two Aldo Cipullo for Cartier Love bracelets. I had beenconsidering a lot of aquamarines until I remembered that Liz was aFebruary Pisces, not a March one like me. Her vast amethyst collection—including mineral specimens—suddenly had meaning beyondcomplementing her violet eyes.

The night before, I’d witnessed the mounting frenzy at the sale of the“Legendary Jewels,” but I was certain there’d be less insanity for the“ordinary” jewels. In fact, I was quite confident that I’d be able to securea lot—perhaps even two. But such illusions evaporated by the time thebidding closed on the fifth lot of the day, a pair of Van Cleef & ArpelsPisces pendants on opera-length chains. I had researched the intrinsicvalue of the items, estimated a premium for their venerable provenanceand set what I thought were reasonable bidding limits. I realized I wassadly mistaken when I was outbid by $50,000!

As the auction progressed, prices skyrocketed and I was feeling increasinglydejected. By the time the hammer went down on the Cartier Love bracelets, theprice was $75,000 over my top bid. I left the auction to wander RockefellerCenter and reflect wistfully over my lost chance at Love (or at least the Lovebracelets) and the beauty, style and legend of a truly amazing woman.

LAST BID FOR LOVEAN ACTRESS, AN AUCTION, A YOUNG MAN’S DREAM… BY JOSEPH UNGOCO

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