Increasing Gold Plated Artificial Jewellery Trend in Pakistan

Due to many different factors like affordability and security, more and more women are choosing gold plated artificial jewellery over the real stuff, and it is not hard to see why. It is not because they do not want to spend money or are not interested in it; it goes to show that they would rather make a smarter decision than putting their life at risk.

This does not mean that real jewellery is not being made or sold anymore, the fact is just that women are choosing different material depending on where they are going to be going that day. Designers like Shanfaq and Naajia have become those names which women tend to choose for the more casual occasions when going out in the town.

At the pace fashion is changing nowadays, the need to bring newer and more creative designs into the market has designers running around from one end to the other. It is a competitive market for marketers because of not only the demand soaring but also the need to come up with unique ideas and trends.

Gold plated artificial jewellery has become the next hottest thing that consumers are looking for and brands are creating. Not only is the affordability factor extremely attractive seeing how far high the prices of real gold have just gotten, knowing that women can wear it with ease and replace even easier gives them a piece of mind and heart.

With all the special holidays that come about in Pakistan, the need to have special jewellery and one of a kind pieces was not as huge as it is now. This comes from all the awareness through media now while brands have also expanded into much larger factions to cater to all the women that want to look their best, all the time. For this current year, artificial jewellery will definitely remain a hot item and it being gold plated will probably have the most interest garnered from shoppers. As the trend continues, women will continue preferring artificial to real, at least in the bigger cities. This trend is also rapidly increasing in small towns as well, the small town women users are more potential customers for this artificial jewellery.

Due to many different factors like affordability and security, more and more women are choosing gold plated artificial jewellery over the real stuff, and it is not hard to see why. It is not because they do not want to spend money or are not interested in it; it goes to show that they would rather make a smarter decision than putting their life at risk.

This does not mean that real jewellery is not being made or sold anymore, the fact is just that women are choosing different material depending on where they are going to be going that day. Designers like Shanfaq and Naajia have become those names which women tend to choose for the more casual occasions when going out in the town.

At the pace fashion is changing nowadays, the need to bring newer and more creative designs into the market has designers running around from one end to the other. It is a competitive market for marketers because of not only the demand soaring but also the need to come up with unique ideas and trends.

Gold plated artificial jewellery has become the next hottest thing that consumers are looking for and brands are creating. Not only is the affordability factor extremely attractive seeing how far high the prices of real gold have just gotten, knowing that women can wear it with ease and replace even easier gives them a piece of mind and heart.

With all the special holidays that come about in Pakistan, the need to have special jewellery and one of a kind pieces was not as huge as it is now. This comes from all the awareness through media now while brands have also expanded into much larger factions to cater to all the women that want to look their best, all the time. For this current year, artificial jewellery will definitely remain a hot item and it being gold plated will probably have the most interest garnered from shoppers. As the trend continues, women will continue preferring artificial to real, at least in the bigger cities. This trend is also rapidly increasing in small towns as well, the small town women users are more potential customers for this artificial jewellery.

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Tacori engagement rings and their innovative styles!

Select an engagement ring is given a completely new meaning with the availability of numerous different and varied collections. Women today expect much of her fiance to bes especially when it comes to engagement rings. So if you're planning to pop the question to your loved one makes sure that you have the perfect ring and ideal, along with you so that the moment she say yes you can slide the ring on your finger.

A common thread that unites women all over the world is your love for your favorite celebrities. And there are very few of them that do not have a handbag, shoe or a watch that has been sported by your favorite celebrity. Then, when you're planning to pop the question, then why not opt for a brand that is known for its celebrity connections. Surprise her with an engagement ring that has been used by your favorite celebrity. In General, celebrities are well known for setting trends in hairstyles, dresses and don't forget jewelry items. Who doesn't want to feel like a celebrity on your special day? Go ahead and make it happen for her. Opt for Tacori engagement rings that are high in fashion and quite a favorite with celebrities around the world.

These rings legal sport cuts, with intricate, colorful gemstone settings with numerous stone inlays then a mere single diamond. Women today want your ring to be unusual, different from that normally you will find on the market-something that will make them stand out in the crowd. Find all this and more in Tacori engagement rings. Today's bride to be proud of your personality and individuality and not shy away from expressing and displaying his individualist style. The Vintage collection of rings by Tacori is immensely popular, as they are rich in Hollywood glamour and fashion with delicate and intricate detail work on them.

If your boyfriend is involved in some creative profession, then surprise her with colored stones on engagement rings. As a creative person she will appreciate your effort. Some of the popular colorful gemstone in Tacori engagement rings is emeralds, sapphires blue green and yellow diamonds. Some of the popular cuts that can be found are pear-shaped, heart-shaped, cushion or marquise cut. Round cut is boring; the demand is for offbeat cuts into precious stones. These styles help you capture the attention of a jewelry lover, as they give a new dimension to the rings.

In addition, with a Tacori engagement rings can opt for customization. This is an interesting feature as you can use your creativity to shape reality. Diamond engagement rings with floral settings for those with different width, a different metal, the sky is the limit. One can choose any style of rings, as long as they don't run out of ideas. But whatever you do don't forget to keep her fiancé preference and taste.

To learn more about Tacori engagement rings do not forget to visit the site. One can check out the numerous collections of rings here. If you need one you can order online so that the product is delivered to your door.

Select an engagement ring is given a completely new meaning with the availability of numerous different and varied collections. Women today expect much of her fiance to bes especially when it comes to engagement rings. So if you're planning to pop the question to your loved one makes sure that you have the perfect ring and ideal, along with you so that the moment she say yes you can slide the ring on your finger.

A common thread that unites women all over the world is your love for your favorite celebrities. And there are very few of them that do not have a handbag, shoe or a watch that has been sported by your favorite celebrity. Then, when you're planning to pop the question, then why not opt for a brand that is known for its celebrity connections. Surprise her with an engagement ring that has been used by your favorite celebrity. In General, celebrities are well known for setting trends in hairstyles, dresses and don't forget jewelry items. Who doesn't want to feel like a celebrity on your special day? Go ahead and make it happen for her. Opt for Tacori engagement rings that are high in fashion and quite a favorite with celebrities around the world.

These rings legal sport cuts, with intricate, colorful gemstone settings with numerous stone inlays then a mere single diamond. Women today want your ring to be unusual, different from that normally you will find on the market-something that will make them stand out in the crowd. Find all this and more in Tacori engagement rings. Today's bride to be proud of your personality and individuality and not shy away from expressing and displaying his individualist style. The Vintage collection of rings by Tacori is immensely popular, as they are rich in Hollywood glamour and fashion with delicate and intricate detail work on them.

If your boyfriend is involved in some creative profession, then surprise her with colored stones on engagement rings. As a creative person she will appreciate your effort. Some of the popular colorful gemstone in Tacori engagement rings is emeralds, sapphires blue green and yellow diamonds. Some of the popular cuts that can be found are pear-shaped, heart-shaped, cushion or marquise cut. Round cut is boring; the demand is for offbeat cuts into precious stones. These styles help you capture the attention of a jewelry lover, as they give a new dimension to the rings.

In addition, with a Tacori engagement rings can opt for customization. This is an interesting feature as you can use your creativity to shape reality. Diamond engagement rings with floral settings for those with different width, a different metal, the sky is the limit. One can choose any style of rings, as long as they don't run out of ideas. But whatever you do don't forget to keep her fiancé preference and taste.

To learn more about Tacori engagement rings do not forget to visit the site. One can check out the numerous collections of rings here. If you need one you can order online so that the product is delivered to your door.

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Signet Replaces CEO for UK Division

Signet Jewelers said Tuesday that Rob Anderson, CEO of Signet's UK division, will leave the company at the end of July. He will be replaced by Sebastian Hobbs who has been promoted to the new position of managing director for the UK division, effective immediately. Hobbs will report to Mike Barnes, Signet CEO.

The Bermuda-based company is the largest specialty retail jeweler in the US and UK with approximately 1,952 stores (1,449 in the US and 503 in the UK). Its retail chains in the US include Kay, Jared and Ultra Diamonds. In the UK, it owns and operates the H.Samuel and Ernest Jones jewelry chains.

“Seb has made important contributions to our UK division and we believe his experience in UK retailing and strategy make him a perfect fit for this role,” Barnes said.

Hobbs joined Signet's UK division as commercial director in March 2011. From November 2006 till March 2011, he was commercial director of Blacks Leisure Group. Prior to this, he was trading controller for WH Smith, a retail consultant for KPMG, and held management positions at Mothercare and British Home Stores.

Signet’s UK division has been struggling since the financial crisis. In its 2013 fiscal year, the division reported that sales fell 0.8 percent to $709.5 million. Same store sales increased 0.3 percent compared to an increase of 0.9 percent in Fiscal 2012. Sales performance was primarily attributed to lower traffic particularly in the fourth quarter.

By contrast, US division sales for the 2013 fiscal year increased 7.9 percent to $3.27 billion. Same store sales increased 4 percent for the year compared to an increase of 11.1 percent in Fiscal 2012.

Please join me on the Jewelry News Network Facebook Page, on Twitter @JewelryNewsNet and on the Forbes Website.

Signet Jewelers said Tuesday that Rob Anderson, CEO of Signet's UK division, will leave the company at the end of July. He will be replaced by Sebastian Hobbs who has been promoted to the new position of managing director for the UK division, effective immediately. Hobbs will report to Mike Barnes, Signet CEO.

The Bermuda-based company is the largest specialty retail jeweler in the US and UK with approximately 1,952 stores (1,449 in the US and 503 in the UK). Its retail chains in the US include Kay, Jared and Ultra Diamonds. In the UK, it owns and operates the H.Samuel and Ernest Jones jewelry chains.

“Seb has made important contributions to our UK division and we believe his experience in UK retailing and strategy make him a perfect fit for this role,” Barnes said.

Hobbs joined Signet's UK division as commercial director in March 2011. From November 2006 till March 2011, he was commercial director of Blacks Leisure Group. Prior to this, he was trading controller for WH Smith, a retail consultant for KPMG, and held management positions at Mothercare and British Home Stores.

Signet’s UK division has been struggling since the financial crisis. In its 2013 fiscal year, the division reported that sales fell 0.8 percent to $709.5 million. Same store sales increased 0.3 percent compared to an increase of 0.9 percent in Fiscal 2012. Sales performance was primarily attributed to lower traffic particularly in the fourth quarter.

By contrast, US division sales for the 2013 fiscal year increased 7.9 percent to $3.27 billion. Same store sales increased 4 percent for the year compared to an increase of 11.1 percent in Fiscal 2012.

Please join me on the Jewelry News Network Facebook Page, on Twitter @JewelryNewsNet and on the Forbes Website.

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Buccellati Appoints New CEO

The Buccellati 18k “Star Collection,” necklace and earrings made of more than 1,700 white and yellow diamonds and 20 pieces of Imperial jade.

Italian luxury jewelry brand, Buccellati, has named Thierry Andretta as its new CEO, according to reports.

Andretta, was most recently CEO of the French couture house, Lanvin, where he doubled sales to more than 236 million euros during his four-year tenure. Prior to Lanvin, he worked in senior positions at Ungaro, Céline, Moschino and Gucci Group.

Monday's announcement came less than four months after Italian private equity fund, Clessidra, took a majority stake in Buccellati, Reuters reports.

Buccellati is known for its signature lace rings and necklaces (many one of a kind) worn by monarchs and movie stars. Some of its pieces sell for more than $1 million. Members of its founding family still design many of its pieces. The company also is known for not routinely lending its jewelry to actresses on the red carpets at high-profile events such as the Cannes film festival or the Oscar ceremony.

Andretta told  Reuters the brand will develop its watch business as well as its presence worldwide, particularly in new markets such as the Middle East and Russia.

Please join me on the Jewelry News Network Facebook Page, on Twitter @JewelryNewsNet and on the Forbes Website.

The Buccellati 18k “Star Collection,” necklace and earrings made of more than 1,700 white and yellow diamonds and 20 pieces of Imperial jade.

Italian luxury jewelry brand, Buccellati, has named Thierry Andretta as its new CEO, according to reports.

Andretta, was most recently CEO of the French couture house, Lanvin, where he doubled sales to more than 236 million euros during his four-year tenure. Prior to Lanvin, he worked in senior positions at Ungaro, Céline, Moschino and Gucci Group.

Monday's announcement came less than four months after Italian private equity fund, Clessidra, took a majority stake in Buccellati, Reuters reports.

Buccellati is known for its signature lace rings and necklaces (many one of a kind) worn by monarchs and movie stars. Some of its pieces sell for more than $1 million. Members of its founding family still design many of its pieces. The company also is known for not routinely lending its jewelry to actresses on the red carpets at high-profile events such as the Cannes film festival or the Oscar ceremony.

Andretta told  Reuters the brand will develop its watch business as well as its presence worldwide, particularly in new markets such as the Middle East and Russia.

Please join me on the Jewelry News Network Facebook Page, on Twitter @JewelryNewsNet and on the Forbes Website.

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Why and How To Buy Stainless Steel Rings?

With online stores and street vendors offering affordable and attractive metallic jewelry, it is tempting to stock up your vanity with new trinkets. However, cut price metallic jewelry is often made from metals that contain high amount of nickel which is known to be a common allergen. Wearing ornaments containing nickel can cause allergies such as redness, itching and rashness. Therefore, your best alternative is to buy wholesale stainless steel jewelry, because it is both skin friendly and budget friendly. Moreover it is a metal that doesn't rust and it is cheaper than real silver. Stainless steel earrings are lightweight and very trendy too.

Top 3 Reasons to Choose Stainless Steel Ornaments

Fashion accessories, especially silver, gold and platinum ornaments can cost you a lot. However, if you don't want to spend too much on jewelry, yet would like to have some unique pieces in your wardrobe, then your best choice is stainless steel jewelry. It is perfect if you prefer the shiny silvery color, but dislike the discoloration properties of silver. If you still have a doubt about purchasing trinkets of this material, here are three reasons that will dispel all your doubts. Stainless steel is a good quality material that is easy to care for unlike gold or silver that needs to be handled with care. Good quality stainless steel earrings very versatile, because they can be worn for any formal, informal and big occasions. Stainless steel is a naturally hard alloy that can handle any amount of wear and tear and hence is a durable material that outperforms even silver and gold.

Important Factors to Consider

Stainless steel has been used for a long time in manufacturing kitchen appliances and also in the making of watches. Today, jewelry manufacturers are using this metal because of its strength and durability. When purchasing stainless steel earrings online, there are few but very important aspects to consider. The percentage of steel and silver, authenticity of the ornaments and other components, warranty and return policy of the online store.

Tips for Selecting Rings

Although gold and platinum rings seem to dominate the jewelry market, many people are turning to stainless steel rings for its durability, uniqueness and for its trendy style. More over it is an inexpensive choice. There are so many varieties of this particular item, that you will be floored by the vast range, not knowing what to pick. Here are some tips to help you. Keep in mind the purpose of buying finger rings; do you want it for yourself or to gift your sweet heart. If you are buying masculine stainless steel rings, then choose that reflect your personal taste. If stones are not for you, pick up items engraved with your name or your loved one's name. If you are buying feminine rings, go for those inlaid with gem stones.

With online stores and street vendors offering affordable and attractive metallic jewelry, it is tempting to stock up your vanity with new trinkets. However, cut price metallic jewelry is often made from metals that contain high amount of nickel which is known to be a common allergen. Wearing ornaments containing nickel can cause allergies such as redness, itching and rashness. Therefore, your best alternative is to buy wholesale stainless steel jewelry, because it is both skin friendly and budget friendly. Moreover it is a metal that doesn't rust and it is cheaper than real silver. Stainless steel earrings are lightweight and very trendy too.

Top 3 Reasons to Choose Stainless Steel Ornaments

Fashion accessories, especially silver, gold and platinum ornaments can cost you a lot. However, if you don't want to spend too much on jewelry, yet would like to have some unique pieces in your wardrobe, then your best choice is stainless steel jewelry. It is perfect if you prefer the shiny silvery color, but dislike the discoloration properties of silver. If you still have a doubt about purchasing trinkets of this material, here are three reasons that will dispel all your doubts. Stainless steel is a good quality material that is easy to care for unlike gold or silver that needs to be handled with care. Good quality stainless steel earrings very versatile, because they can be worn for any formal, informal and big occasions. Stainless steel is a naturally hard alloy that can handle any amount of wear and tear and hence is a durable material that outperforms even silver and gold.

Important Factors to Consider

Stainless steel has been used for a long time in manufacturing kitchen appliances and also in the making of watches. Today, jewelry manufacturers are using this metal because of its strength and durability. When purchasing stainless steel earrings online, there are few but very important aspects to consider. The percentage of steel and silver, authenticity of the ornaments and other components, warranty and return policy of the online store.

Tips for Selecting Rings

Although gold and platinum rings seem to dominate the jewelry market, many people are turning to stainless steel rings for its durability, uniqueness and for its trendy style. More over it is an inexpensive choice. There are so many varieties of this particular item, that you will be floored by the vast range, not knowing what to pick. Here are some tips to help you. Keep in mind the purpose of buying finger rings; do you want it for yourself or to gift your sweet heart. If you are buying masculine stainless steel rings, then choose that reflect your personal taste. If stones are not for you, pick up items engraved with your name or your loved one's name. If you are buying feminine rings, go for those inlaid with gem stones.

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The Complicated Process of Defining A Grand Complication Watch

Patek Philippe Reference 959/J Grand Complication Timepiece at Aaron Faber Gallery.

The question of what are the components that define a grand complication timepiece seems fairly straightforward and at least two members of an esteem group of panelists discussing this topic said there is an absolute answer to this question. However, the definitive explanation proved to be elusive during a discussion about this and other timepiece topics during a rainy June evening at Aaron Faber Gallery in New York.

The fact is the discussion of grand complications is … well … complicated. First, you need agreement of what is a complication. In its simplest definition a complication is any feature to a timepiece outside of the simple display of hours, minutes, and seconds (for example, a date/day display). However, that doesn't quite cut it when trying to define the term in a grand complication, considered the most complex achievement of haute horlogerie.

Grand complications panelists (from left): Gary Girdvainis, Edward Faber, Michael Friedman, Osvaldo Patrizzi and Alexis Sarkissian.

Osvaldo Patrizzi, best-known as the founder of Antiquorum, the international auction house for timepieces, is one of the most connected, most respected and best known people in the world of haute horlogerie. He said the reason grand complications are so expensive and so rare is because it’s extremely difficult to fit several complications into such a small space and because the type and number of complications in a watch will affect its appearance.

“The more complications you want the more problems you have,” he said in his Italian accent.

He noted that he was among a small group of people who worked at creating a definition for a complication in an “ultra-complicated” watch.

“We spent one day to define what is a complication on a normal size watch,” he said. “A complication is when you are able to give one (piece) of information.”

Panelists were in relative agreement on this. The next question by the moderator, Gary Girdvainis, publisher and editorial director of the publications, WristWatch Magazine and AboutTime, was: Is a toubillon a complication?

The toubillon was invented by French-Swiss watchmaker Abraham-Louis Breguet, to (in simple terms) negate the effects of gravity on the accuracy of a timepiece. It is housed in a rotating cage that is often seen on the dial. It is a beautiful, complex device that is widely sought after among watch collectors. But does it provide information?

On this, Patrizzi, the man who in his own words helped give the definition of a complication, gave a long response that was noncommittal. 

[Update, July 24] Patrizzi clarified his statement saying that he has always considered a tourbillion a complication.

Michael Friedman, a timepiece auctioneer, a museum curator and noted expert on the history of horology, was more direct.

“The tourbillion is an incredibly complicated escapement but in my mind it’s not necessarily a complication,” he said. “It was a complicated escapement that Breguet designed to solve a very specific problem.”

The panelists, which also included Edward Faber, founder of Aaron Faber Gallery and author of American Wristwatches: Five Decades of Style and Design; and Alexis Sarkissian, founder of Totally Worth, a boutique distribution network for luxury timepieces; seemed to be in agreement. If Patrizzi was cornered I think he would agree as well.

So what are the complications that make up a grand complication? Again the panelists were in relative agreement: minute repeater, perpetual calendar, phases of the moon, grand and petite sonnerie, and split-seconds chronograph.

Friedman strayed a bit with his answer, saying a simple chronograph would be acceptable in his view.

“I’m a bit of a traditionalist for a definition. I view that it has to have minute repeater, perpetual calendar, phases of the moon (and) grand and petite sonnaire. These are the classic complications that need to be part of the grand complication,” he said. “Once we get beyond those basics, it’s a matter of definition. It’s a matter of companies marketing themselves in a particular way, whether something has an alarm, whether something has a split-second chronograph versus a standard chronograph. For me a grand complication can have a standard chronograph. It doesn’t have to have a split-second chronograph, partly because if we’re talking about a complicated watch from the 1870s, it likely would have had a standard chronograph function of a watch. So for me those are the classics.”

Friedman also noted that the same conversation would have been different if it was held at certain periods during the last 150 years.

“That’s one thing I love about this topic,” he said. “It’s a moving target and the definitions change over time.”

Panelists also discussed variations in the auction market for high-end watches, maintenance and repairs of ultra-complications watches, the increase of watch brands under corporate ownership and the need for more watchmakers throughout the world. These are all topics that need their own space.

The discussion was held the day before Christie’s was auctioning the earliest and most significant example of a Patek Philippe grand complication. The Stephen S. Palmer Patek Philippe Grand Complication No. 97912 is a minute repeating perpetual calendar split-seconds chronograph watch with grand and petite sonnerie and moon phases. It was manufactured in 1898. It has never been seen in public and it was the first time it ever appeared at auction. The watch was purchased on Oct. 3, 1900, for 6,500 Swiss francs by Stephen S. Palmer.

It sold for more than $2.25 million, a world auction record for a Patek Philippe grand complication.

Aaron Faber Gallery held a week-long exhibition that featured a similar grand complication as its centerpiece: a Patek Philippe Reference 959/J (top picture). Made in 1992, it has a perpetual calendar, moon phases, split seconds chronograph, grand and petite sonnerie, and minute repeater. 

It’s a steal at $1.5 million. 

Please join me on the Jewelry News Network Facebook Page, on Twitter @JewelryNewsNet and on the Forbes Website.

Patek Philippe Reference 959/J Grand Complication Timepiece at Aaron Faber Gallery.

The question of what are the components that define a grand complication timepiece seems fairly straightforward and at least two members of an esteem group of panelists discussing this topic said there is an absolute answer to this question. However, the definitive explanation proved to be elusive during a discussion about this and other timepiece topics during a rainy June evening at Aaron Faber Gallery in New York.

The fact is the discussion of grand complications is … well … complicated. First, you need agreement of what is a complication. In its simplest definition a complication is any feature to a timepiece outside of the simple display of hours, minutes, and seconds (for example, a date/day display). However, that doesn't quite cut it when trying to define the term in a grand complication, considered the most complex achievement of haute horlogerie.

Grand complications panelists (from left): Gary Girdvainis, Edward Faber, Michael Friedman, Osvaldo Patrizzi and Alexis Sarkissian.

Osvaldo Patrizzi, best-known as the founder of Antiquorum, the international auction house for timepieces, is one of the most connected, most respected and best known people in the world of haute horlogerie. He said the reason grand complications are so expensive and so rare is because it’s extremely difficult to fit several complications into such a small space and because the type and number of complications in a watch will affect its appearance.

“The more complications you want the more problems you have,” he said in his Italian accent.

He noted that he was among a small group of people who worked at creating a definition for a complication in an “ultra-complicated” watch.

“We spent one day to define what is a complication on a normal size watch,” he said. “A complication is when you are able to give one (piece) of information.”

Panelists were in relative agreement on this. The next question by the moderator, Gary Girdvainis, publisher and editorial director of the publications, WristWatch Magazine and AboutTime, was: Is a toubillon a complication?

The toubillon was invented by French-Swiss watchmaker Abraham-Louis Breguet, to (in simple terms) negate the effects of gravity on the accuracy of a timepiece. It is housed in a rotating cage that is often seen on the dial. It is a beautiful, complex device that is widely sought after among watch collectors. But does it provide information?

On this, Patrizzi, the man who in his own words helped give the definition of a complication, gave a long response that was noncommittal. 

[Update, July 24] Patrizzi clarified his statement saying that he has always considered a tourbillion a complication.

Michael Friedman, a timepiece auctioneer, a museum curator and noted expert on the history of horology, was more direct.

“The tourbillion is an incredibly complicated escapement but in my mind it’s not necessarily a complication,” he said. “It was a complicated escapement that Breguet designed to solve a very specific problem.”

The panelists, which also included Edward Faber, founder of Aaron Faber Gallery and author of American Wristwatches: Five Decades of Style and Design; and Alexis Sarkissian, founder of Totally Worth, a boutique distribution network for luxury timepieces; seemed to be in agreement. If Patrizzi was cornered I think he would agree as well.

So what are the complications that make up a grand complication? Again the panelists were in relative agreement: minute repeater, perpetual calendar, phases of the moon, grand and petite sonnerie, and split-seconds chronograph.

Friedman strayed a bit with his answer, saying a simple chronograph would be acceptable in his view.

“I’m a bit of a traditionalist for a definition. I view that it has to have minute repeater, perpetual calendar, phases of the moon (and) grand and petite sonnaire. These are the classic complications that need to be part of the grand complication,” he said. “Once we get beyond those basics, it’s a matter of definition. It’s a matter of companies marketing themselves in a particular way, whether something has an alarm, whether something has a split-second chronograph versus a standard chronograph. For me a grand complication can have a standard chronograph. It doesn’t have to have a split-second chronograph, partly because if we’re talking about a complicated watch from the 1870s, it likely would have had a standard chronograph function of a watch. So for me those are the classics.”

Friedman also noted that the same conversation would have been different if it was held at certain periods during the last 150 years.

“That’s one thing I love about this topic,” he said. “It’s a moving target and the definitions change over time.”

Panelists also discussed variations in the auction market for high-end watches, maintenance and repairs of ultra-complications watches, the increase of watch brands under corporate ownership and the need for more watchmakers throughout the world. These are all topics that need their own space.

The discussion was held the day before Christie’s was auctioning the earliest and most significant example of a Patek Philippe grand complication. The Stephen S. Palmer Patek Philippe Grand Complication No. 97912 is a minute repeating perpetual calendar split-seconds chronograph watch with grand and petite sonnerie and moon phases. It was manufactured in 1898. It has never been seen in public and it was the first time it ever appeared at auction. The watch was purchased on Oct. 3, 1900, for 6,500 Swiss francs by Stephen S. Palmer.

It sold for more than $2.25 million, a world auction record for a Patek Philippe grand complication.

Aaron Faber Gallery held a week-long exhibition that featured a similar grand complication as its centerpiece: a Patek Philippe Reference 959/J (top picture). Made in 1992, it has a perpetual calendar, moon phases, split seconds chronograph, grand and petite sonnerie, and minute repeater. 

It’s a steal at $1.5 million. 

Please join me on the Jewelry News Network Facebook Page, on Twitter @JewelryNewsNet and on the Forbes Website.

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Centurion 2014 Call for Entries for Emerging Designer Competition

Blue sapphire and diamond earrings by Sharart Design, one of last year's winners.

Entries are now being accepted for the sixth annual Centurion Emerging Designer Competition. Two winners will receive a showcase and exhibit space at the next Centurion Show. The invitation-only luxury jewelry tradeshow will be held Feb. 1-5, 2014, in Scottsdale, Ariz.

The competition is open to any jewelry designer who has never before exhibited in a U.S. fine jewelry tradeshow. It’s open to all designers, regardless of experience, formal training, or background in jewelry design, but entrants must show lines or one-of-a-kind designs that are suitable for a luxury jewelry store environment and be capable of both exhibiting at a trade show and fulfilling any wholesale orders received at the show.

Deadline for entry is September 30. Entrants are required to submit up to three images of finished jewelry; no renderings or CAD drawings will be accepted. Images must be .jpg format, and each image must include a detailed description of the piece and the materials used (metals, gemstones, etc.). Entries will be judged by a special panel, as well as by Centurion’s Board of Retail Advisors.

For more information and to access the entry form, follow this link:

The competition is sponsored by Stuller, a Lafayette, La., jewelry manufacturing and distribution business and a domestic and international wholesale jewelry supplier.

Please join me on the Jewelry News Network Facebook Page, on Twitter @JewelryNewsNet and on the Forbes Website.

Blue sapphire and diamond earrings by Sharart Design, one of last year's winners.

Entries are now being accepted for the sixth annual Centurion Emerging Designer Competition. Two winners will receive a showcase and exhibit space at the next Centurion Show. The invitation-only luxury jewelry tradeshow will be held Feb. 1-5, 2014, in Scottsdale, Ariz.

The competition is open to any jewelry designer who has never before exhibited in a U.S. fine jewelry tradeshow. It’s open to all designers, regardless of experience, formal training, or background in jewelry design, but entrants must show lines or one-of-a-kind designs that are suitable for a luxury jewelry store environment and be capable of both exhibiting at a trade show and fulfilling any wholesale orders received at the show.

Deadline for entry is September 30. Entrants are required to submit up to three images of finished jewelry; no renderings or CAD drawings will be accepted. Images must be .jpg format, and each image must include a detailed description of the piece and the materials used (metals, gemstones, etc.). Entries will be judged by a special panel, as well as by Centurion’s Board of Retail Advisors.

For more information and to access the entry form, follow this link:

The competition is sponsored by Stuller, a Lafayette, La., jewelry manufacturing and distribution business and a domestic and international wholesale jewelry supplier.

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