Bell & Ross BR01 Tourbillon–Seriously Sporty High Complication

The Bell & Ross BR01 Tourbillon is a complex watch that really makes a statement.  A prestigious extension of the daring, cutting edge sports styling that define Bell & Ross’s extremely popular BR collection of timepieces, this extremely small production watch features a number of cutting edge techniques and materials in its construction.  The case itself is remarkable, featuring a fascinating combination of high-tech materials including DLC-treated titanium and carbon fiber. 

The engine of this watch–the manually wound movement–is technically exciting; it incorporates a tourbillon with a “flying” construction, and bridges made from always-tantalizing carbon fiber that emphasizes exotic sport.  I am a big fan of large power reserves, and this watch will run for 120 hours when fully wound.  Not only is a power reserve indicator present to help you keep track, but there is also a “trust index” which shows when the torque in the mainspring falls below the level which the best precision can be expected.  The off-centered regulator hour display atop the dial is yet another element in the potent technical arsenal of the BR01 Tourbillon.

Above all, the Bell & Ross BR01 Tourbillon is a certain conversation piece.  A great, classy touch is the beautifully made desk stand that Bell & Ross includes, which can transform this high luxury sports wristwatch into a very exclusive clock.

Mikimoto Pearl Ring – Large Pearl

This Mikimoto pearl ring is by far the largest pearl ring I have yet to see.

At 16mm, this large cultured pearl makes a grand impression and is thus rightly part of the Mikimoto Grandeur collection. The simple platinum shank is somewhat deceiving since it is still adorned with 1.74 carats of white diamonds. However, with the incredible eye for design that Mikimoto has, the diamonds in no way distract for the awesome beauty and luster of the large pearl.

As with all pearl jewelry, the care you show your pearls will provide a better chance that your pearl jewelry will last longer and maintain its luster and surface smoothness. read more about pearl care with our helpful and friendly Pearl Care – How To Care For Your Pearl Jewelry instruction article.

If you are considering purchasing a right hand ring this season for yourself, or you are shopping for an anniversary or birthday gift for a special woman in your life, consider this extraordinary and majestic Mikimoto pearl ring featuring a remarkably large 16mm pearl.

Todd English Heats Up Pebble Beach Food & Wine

Todd English is one dashing chef. In the Grand Tasting tent at the Pebble Beach Food & Wine event on Saturday, English served foodies a savory sampling of braised pork belly with kumquat and jalapeno relish atop grilled pita bread triangles. Here, English autographs a book for an attendee, and throughout the day, English took photos with many loyal fans who have followed this James Beard Foundation Award winner through his career before he was named National Rising Star Chef in 1991. With award-winning restaurants all over the world, English shares his interpretations of Mediterranean, French, Italian and most recently, Spanish cuisine, with the opening of Beso with partner Eva Longoria-Parker, who English said, “is awesome” to work with. English even admitted to some guests at the Grand Tasting a love of Vietnamese food, so who knows what kind of menu People Magazine’s Most Beautiful restauranteur of 2001 will come up with next.

See more ViaLuxe coverage of Pebble Beach Food & Wine here.

Vacheron Constantin Malte Perpetual Calendar Watch Embodies The Demanding Motto Of Founders

The house of Vacheron Constantin produces some of the most exquisite complicated watches in existence. Having had well over two centuries to perfect their sense of style, the legendary Geneva manufacture carries on the proud traditions of Jean-Marc Vacheron and Francois Constantin, who built the brand around the demanding motto of “Faire mieux si possible, ce qui est toujours possible!” (”Do better when possible, and it is always possible”)

One of the many exquisite offerings from Vacheron Constantin, is this Perpetual Calendar Minute Repeater watch from the Malte collection. I love the classical silvered dial, with its applied gold roman numerals and slim baton hands—while not the easiest type of perpetual calendar display to read, the classical layout this watch has mirrors that of the brand’s pocket watches from the late 19th and early 20th century. The 41mm gold Malte case is superbly elegant, yet has a rakish flair with its distinctive, intricate lugs. Vacheron Constantin minute repeaters are often praised for their extraordinary quality, and the large gold case should optimize the volume of the chimes nicely.

John Hardy Cuff Bracelet – Circle Bracelet

This John Hardy cuff bracelet – a cool and chic circle cuff bracelet – is a stunning accessory to your runway inspired Circle Op Art fashion trend. Being made from sterling silver, it has incredible versatility making it a must have for its mix and match properties. Wear it with colors for a playful style during the day or with black and white with a little more sophisticated look (this one could even take you from day to night.) Or, if you are feeling punk, throw on your black army skirt, studded belt and silver pendants, and this John Hardy cuff bracelet with other silver bangles and leather bracelets. Or, if the fuschia bug has caught you, accessorize that look with this circle bracelet.

This John Hardy circle cuff bracelet is part of the Nuansa Dot collection and carries so much potential for this season, how could you possibly resist?

Geometric Cuff Bracelet – Spring Jewelry Trend

Mix up your circle fashion trend or your clock block trend with a geometric cuff bracelet this spring.  While your clothes will be singing to the tune of circles or wide blocks of color, your wrist will play to the tune of geometric shapes like pyramids, squares, and rectangles.  These cuff bracelets could be made of resin or metal making for a versatile trend that is sure to fit with your runway inspired looks.

The geomtric cuff bracelet reaches far beyond the simple square or rectangular however.  Keep your eye open for cuff bracelets that feature a faceted gemstone-like center.  These kinds of geometric cuff bracelets are more likely to feature colorful bracelets of colored centers allowing you to mix and match with your look.

Whichever geometric cuff bracelet you choose for this season, you will surely be right on point with this trend.

Jacques and Claudine Pepin at Pebble Beach Food & Wine

The Pebble Beach Food & Wine Festival brought out many foodies, wine enthusiasts, wineries and world famous chefs to the picturesque Pebble Beach coastline. Here, Chefs Jacques Pepin and daughter Claudine take a look at KitchenAid’s demo kitchen and the faux food props that garnish the set during the Lexus Grand Tasting event. Jacques was one of the event’s seminar chefs, demonstrating his techniques in front of gourmand event package holders. Both father and daughter participated in a book signing at the American Express Publishing lounge, where American Express cardholders received free copies of the Food & Wine Annual Cookbook, featuring recipes by some of the event’s chef participants, including Jacques, who is a Food & Wine contributing editor.

See more ViaLuxe coverage of the Pebble Beach Food & Wine Festival.