Autumn Fire
As the evenings cool, and contemplation sets with the shadows, retiring to a cozy corner is hardly a retreat. Whether alone or with compelling company, engaging in the warmth of a private hearth and slowing your mood to the circling of smoke dangling in the air is a brilliant time for reflection. Cigar culture never goes out of style and neither does investing in stately accoutrements steeped in the culture of Havana. Family-owned and operated London Jewelers (Manhasset) caters to those whose tastes are refined, but far from stuffy. Black “Havana” ashtray, $495, blue and gold round cigar punch, $355, black lacquered Dupont lighter, $1,225, stainless steel black flask, $50, Ché Guevera leather cigar case, $1,615, orange sycamore Alba humidor, $2,850, ebony 8×10 frame, $295, platinum “scales” 5×7 frame, $130, are just the beginning of their lush indulgences.
Cozy & Luxurious
Personal accessories that are luxurious and refined add importance to your most precious memories. Acclaimed fashion jewelry designer, Jay Strongwater, whose early designs were often paired with Oscar de la Renta, continues producing picture frames as beautiful as the memories they hold. Each frame is a work of art—designed, modeled, cast, plated and enameled by hand before final stones, crystals and paints are added. Shown here are 5×7 plaid, $1,900, 4×6 argyle, $895, and 3×4, $395, from the Highland collection. Inspire new thoughts and record other memories with leather fineries from Long Island-based Graphic Image. Shown here (L-R): 3×5 brown crocodile jotter w/ 24 note cards, $40, purple cayman python iPad sleeve, $125, mini envelope (shown as business card holder) in pink cayman python, $40, and iPhone case in turquoise goatskin, $48. Graphic Image is a leading supplier to quality retailers (like Bergdorf Goodman), but discerning clients may shop them direct online where endless hues, finishes and gilded pages can be found. (graphicimage.com). Montblanc cool blue pen, $460, at London Jewelers. Chocolate, herb & spice, and coffee companions in mocha, lime and taupe goatskin, $75 each by Graphic Image.
Oenophiles
Bragging rights are the domain of those whose tastes are so exquisite, experiences so vast and opinions so indisputable, they are unassailable. Hence the difference between one who dabbles and the true connoisseur. Indulging in tools of the trade that herald the passion of the possessor are simply par for the course. No matter what the vintage, this wood bottle holder gift set ($65, London Jewelers), is the perfect vessel. A professional Wine Reference in garnet goatskin featuring information on wine regions, cellars, vineyards, terminology and pronunciation guide plus maps ($65, Graphic Image) and companion Wine Journal in brown crocodile print leather to document personal experiences, tabbed by country, including editorial on varietals ($37, Graphic Image) harmonize the encounter.
Write On
Thoughtful moments are made all the more intimate when penned personally on fine stationary. Bernard Maisner is hailed for creative hand lettering for film and television (that was his impeccable scrolling in The Age of Innocence), as well as his unique work in manuscripts, greeting cards and illuminated pages. His tabletop collections continue to be sought after by countless luminaries. The latest in his personal stationary line includes this Love Knot folder card and envelope, $80 at London Jewelers, celebrating the symbol of eternal true love. Complete your thoughts with the most poignant “swords,” by Montblanc (carbon steel solitaire pen, $690, black solitaire rollerball, $650) and keep it all together with Agate bookends ($100), all available at London Jewelers. Leathers are the perfect autumn accessory and this Merriam-Webster’s dictionary in lime crocodile print leather w/thumb tabs ($174) and 5×7 weekly datebook in yellow goatskin w/gilt edges ($60) are available through Graphic Image in a variety of colors. Publisher’s antique Egyptian quill holder and ink well n/a.