EA Sports. Madden NFL 13: Pep Talk

Beaute Du Siecle

With cognac selling for less than $50 a bottle, enjoying a glass after dinner is hardly a luxury anymore. But taking just a sip of this limited-production Hennessy cognac would be a totally unique experience. Hennessy, a spirits division of LVMH’s Moët Hennessy, released a $200,000 bottle of Beauté du Siècle in 2007, only 100 of which will be available. It’s the house’s best blend, of course. But the exorbitant price is mostly a function of the extraordinary bottle the liquor comes in, which was designed by the contemporary French artist Jean-Michel Othoniel. Each collectible bottle comes with four gold-leaf adorned glasses which are housed in an aluminum-and-glass chest decorated with two colored Venetian glass beads.

Via CNNMoney.com

 

MB&F Legacy Machine No.1

Nice Watch!

Via Bornrich.com

Some watches experiment with complications, some with shapes and sizes, and some are custom made for exclusivity. But one watchmaker, who knows how to create horological art with its dial, is MB&F who have created the latest artwork, the Legacy Machine No.1 (LM1). Much like its HM3 ReBel watch, and the HM2 final editions, this watch will have a 3-dimensional display of the timepiece’s finer movements and horological engineering which has set it apart from the rest.

Atari Arcade For iPad

A treat for nostalgic iPad users.

via MacRumours.com

The design appears to support both landscape and portrait orientations. No details are provided, but it’s likely the device also uses Bluetooth rather than going straight into the dock connector. This is how the iCade works as well, by emulating a Bluetooth keyboard. This system also makes it easier for 3rd party developers to build in support for the accessories.

Atari’s Greatest Hits offers 100 classic Atari games for the iPad and iPhone. It was the first app to provide support for the iCade with several others following.

DVICE reports that the ATARI Joystick uses the dock connector (not bluetooth) and will be available for $60 on October 2nd. at Target.

Vehicles For The Future: Fisker Surf and Land Rover DC100

Two great car concepts I hope to see cruising the streets soon.

Via Global14.com:

Fisker Surf

The dramatic contours of the Fisker Karma gets translated into shooting brake form with the debut of the company’s second model, the Fisker Surf. The high end hybrid will be powered by the same engine as the Karma, a 2.0 liter 255 hp four-cylinder that works in conjunction with a lithium-ion battery system that gives the car a range of about 300 miles and a 0-60 time of 6.3 seconds.

Breguet Marine Tourbillon Ref. 5839 High Jewellery Chronograph Watch

In the watch world diamonds seem to make just about everything better. This Ref. 5839 Marine Tourbillon High Jewellery watch is a diamond encrusted version of the Ref. 5937 from a few years ago. Breguet outfitted the watch case and dial with an impressive amount of diamonds, but still was able to retain that signature Breguet Marine watch look.

The 43mm wide 18k white gold case as about 11.77 carats of stones on it. One of the neatest parts is how Breguet was able to maintain the coined edge of the case using specially cut diamonds. Also not the unique pattern the diamonds create for the bezel. On the dial smaller diamonds are set in the middle of the dial and don’t overshadow the hands. The dial itself is silvered 18k gold. Overall Breguet did a great job giving a men’s jewelry watch a functional face.

Inside the watch is a Breguet caliber 554.4 manually wound tourbillon movement with the time and a chronograph complication. The watch has 50 hours of power reserve with special features that include a silicium balance spring and escapement wheel.

Ariel Adams publishes the luxury watch reviews site aBlogtoRead.com.

Via Luxist.com

Blackberry

At one time I was an avid Blackberry supporter and then came the birth of the iPhone. While surfing for new subjects to blog about I came upon an interview on LifeandTimes.com with Todd Wood, RIM’s VP of Industrial Design, that brought my attention back to the RIM family of products and how they feel superior but remain inferior in my opinion. I’ve always kept an eye on their progression in todays new world of smartphones and tablets. Like others they lag behind Apple in development, design, and delivery. Yet they still maintain a core following that will always support them. So today I wanted to post some information on an old friend.

Here are some articles on their current products I think you should check out.

For fans of Blackberry reviews from Crackberry.com:

Blacberry Torch 9800 Review

Blackberry Bold 9780 Review

Blackberry Playbook Review

For an objective opinion reviews from Engadget.com and CNET.com:

Blackberry Torch 9800 Review

Blackberry Bold 9780 Review

Blackberry Playbook Review

Breitling Navitimer Super Constellation Limited Edition

by Ariel Adams 

Breitling is in to new and old aviation experiences. Going along with their current retro-kick, this new limited edition watch celebrates their restoration of a truly remarkable plane – the Super Constellation. There are only three remaining Lockheed Super Constellation planes around. Originally from the 1950s, the iconic looking dolphin style fuselage along with “triple tail” was designed for long-haul flights over the Atlantic ocean. It reminds of us a more romantic era when flight was for the few and jets were for the military.

The watch is based on the Navitimer with special branding, red and blue trim coloring, as well as a specially engraved caseback. The watch is truly about the plane itself, having an assortment of technical details about the plane on the case back. Limited to 1,049 pieces, the Breitling Navitimer Super Constellation is 42mm wide in polished steel and includes a Breitling Caliber 23 automatic chronograph COSC Chronometer certified movement. It sould be available soon and comes on a range of strap and bracelet options. Really one of the nicer looking limited edition retro style watches from Breitling that we have seen in the last year.

Via Luxist.com

Jaguar C-X75 To Be Put Into Production

This morning a gigantic cat jumped out of a secret little bag when Jaguar announced it has teamed with Williams F1 to build a production version of the C-X75 supercar. The 2010 Paris Motor Show-stopper in concept form was powered by two mid-mounted turbines, but the four-wheel-drive production model will swap those for a low displacement, highly boosted four-cylinder engine mated to “two powerful electric motors,” one at each axle.

Williams’ contribution will be in the areas of aerodynamics – the production version will maintain the concept’s all-composite body, and the integration of the hybrid powertrain that will take from the lessons JLR is learning from its Jaguar Limo Green and Land Rover Range E. Horsepower numbers haven’t been revealed, but the hybrid master blaster is targeting CO2 emissions of less than 99 grams per kilometer and all-electric running possible for 31 miles, along with a sub-three-second 0-to-60 time and a top speed beyond 200 miles per hour.

Only 250 will be built and they’ll start at £700,000 ($1.149 million U.S. based on current exchange rates) “depending on local market and taxes.” However, Jaguar hasn’t said when they’ll be built, offering nothing more than “within the timescales of a conventional model programme.” That sounds like about four years to us, plenty of time to save enough to buy one of the door handles.

Via Autoblog.com

View more pics in full post.

Hublot Creates Third Special Edition Watch For ManU Football Club

Hublot has created a third watch for the legendary Manchester United Football Club from England. Here is a report from the ManU site.

A new King Power watch – the third edition arising from the committed partnership between Hublot and Manchester United – was unveiled at Old Trafford on 7 May 2011, the eve of the monumental win over Chelsea.

Featuring new technical details, and equipped with a new chronograph movement with two centre chrono hands providing better readability, the King Power Red Devil is a fine symbol of fusion and innovation, paying tribute to one of the world’s most famous football clubs.

The Manchester United squad joined Sir Alex Ferguson and Jean-Claude Biver, CEO of Hublot, on the hallowed Old Trafford turf to present the new King Power Red Devil to the international media.

Christian Louboutin Salsbourg Sandals

These are red caged suede leather sandals with a leopard print calfhair heel. They have gold toned skinny self-tie ankle straps with tassels on the ends. The heel measures 5 inches with a 1 inch taupe suede leather platform. They have a leather in-sole, and signature red sole.$939

Via Global14.com

Nixon RPM Headphones

Designed for DJs, the Nixon RPM Headphones ($200) blend hefty electronics with simple, oversized-looking aesthetics that wouldn’t look out of place in a cartoon — and we mean that in a good way. Highlights include custom 40mm drivers, articulating joints, gel-filled ear cushions, an interlocking coiled cable, and an additional iPhone-compatible cable with remote and mic for those times when you have to listen to something other than music.

Via Uncrate.com

New Stuart Hughes Gold iPad 2

Undoubtably the world’s most unique gadget is the Ipad 2 Gold History Edition. Encrusted with 12.5 cts of ‘I’F’ Flawless diamonds, a magnificent total of 53 individually set sparkling gems dwell beautifully in solid 24ct Apple logo with rear section formed again in 24ct gold weighing an immense 2,000 grams. The unrivalled imagination towards the craftmanship of the iapd is down to its main front frame which is made from the oldest rock the world has to offer in the form of Ammolite , sourced from Canada this stone is over 75 million years old. However to make this masterpiece even more individual, sections of a 65 million year old T-REX Dinosaur’s thigh bone was splintered and then shaved into the Ammolite , then finished off with ultimate jewel , as single cut 8.5ct flawless diamond inlaid in its own platinum surround with 12 outer flawless diamonds. A magnificent combination of top of the industry technology and unique thought were involved in creating this piece of History !. Material spec, 16.5 ct diamonds & 8.5ct single diamond, 57 grams of T-REX bone, 750 grams of Ammolite stone and 2000 grams of solid 24ct Gold. This item is of a limited edition of only 2 units to be made.

Via StuartHughes.com

In Theatres: Fast Five

Went to check this out this weekend with my oldest son. I enjoyed the action packed fifth installment to the Fast and Furious franchise. I congratulate them on capturing the number one spot for the weekend. Here’s some words from Ryan J. Downey Via MTV.com.

Beats By Dre In Chrome

Make a statement of exclusivity via the new partnership between Beats by Dr. Dre and customizer ColorWare. Introducing the new Beats Chrome Headphones with shimmering chrome finishes. With patented X2 coating, a process invented by the Minnesota-base ColorWare, the metallic-like chrome finish isn’t just the usual electroplating of chromium, but a plastic resin that in actually more scratch resistant. Each numbered and engraved with a special ColorWare Collection emblem, only 50 pairs will be available through ColorWare at a price of $1000 each.

Belvedere Cérémonie At Cannes 2011

With Cannes 2011 approaching, Belvedere Vodka , one of the favorite vodka brands, is going to be present at the ceremony for the fifth consecutive year. The bottle has been intricately designed by Italian designer Roc Sine Labe Doli and will be presented in an amazing ceremonial way for Cannes colored in platinum and with a beautiful bow tie and silver sequins. The price for this special bottle will be around $800 approx.

The brand Belvedere has also launched a special edition (RED) ™ of vodka to raise funds to fight against HIV/AIDS in Africa. And 50% of the profit from the sales will go to Global Fund™, the official partner who is taking this cause further.

The brand has earlier sponsored a Belvedere Intense Vodka birthday dinner for superstar Dwyane Wade that cost Belvedere around more than $100,000.

Via Bornrich.com

Glenmorangie 1981

The Making of Glenmorangie’s Pride

By Jack Bettridge 

via Cigaraficionado.com

Much in life is either attributed to science or art. Making great whisky is often an interplay between the two. At least, that is the case of Glenmorangie Pride 1981, the company’s new limited release that combines know-how and serendipity to create an exceptional spirit that seems destined to be enshrined as one of the great single malts of our age.

The 1,000 bottles of Pride 1981 come from an exceptional distillation of that year that was further enhanced by a finishing process developed comparatively recently in the annals of whisky-making. The result is something that is assuredly greater than the sum of the two.

Biggie On Fader Magazine Icon Issue Cover

The Notorious B.I.G. covers Fader magazine’s next icon issue on newsstands  May 3rd. The full article can be read now at theFader.com.

Blackbox Wood Cases For Macbook And iPad 2

I am a Mac devotee. I have used there products since the first system crash on my Sony Vaio laptop ten years ago. I’m always on the lookout for new accessories to go with their products. The guys over at Blackbox cases have created a uniquely beautiful set of cases for the Macbooks and iPad 2. I would like to thank Redjacksagency.com for introducing me to this product.

Via Uncrate.com – With its aluminum curves and sleek design, your MacBook Pro deserves a carrying case as stylish as it is. The Blackbox Case ($130) fits the bill, with solid oak construction made specifically for your 13- or 15-inch MBP, felt interior lining for added protection, and a simple strap closure. Even better, 15% of the purchase price goes to charity, which should help you to feel better when the case’s beauty draws looks of jealousy from PC users.

€2 Million Hublot Diamond Big Bang

It took 12 months to creat the two million euro Hublot Big Bang. The whole producing was kept the secret. In 2011 Basel Watch Fair, this precious treasure didn’t let us dowm and amazed everyone. This watch is studded with 637 square diamonds and a cutting diamonds in the crown. Equipped with Vendome tourbillon movement, it became the world-renowned master’s work of top jewelry.

The research and development of Hublot €2 Million Big Bang is a mysterious project. The design inspiration is from a piece of hand-painted design that Jean-Calaude Biver drew in the office of Basel Watch Fair last year.

This watch spent 12 months from framing up to finish. It took up to 13,000 hours to cut the diamonds and another 2,000 hours to set them. 45 craftsmen continued to work a month.

Harry Winston Opus 11

Harry Winston has unveiled at Baselworld 2011 the Opus Eleven, created in partnership with Denis Giguet (MCT). Three overlapping cylinders on three levels are configured to deconstruct time – the main circle is the hour’s domain, flanked by two pavilions. One sub-circle shows the minutes on a jumping disk for the tens and a running disk for the units; the other shows off the beat of the big titanium balance-wheel. Every 60 minutes under the hours display falls into a frenzied anarchy, only to recover in a split second to display the current hour. There are no hands on the dial — instead there are 24 mobile “pallets” (6 per satellite in each quadrant) that form the figure of the time according to a complex gear mechanism mounted planetary gear train. Via luxuo.com

First Taste: Scion Pre-Phylloxera Port

As the room of tasters, a veritable varsity squad of New York wine writers, took their respective places, the publicist for Portuguese port house,Taylor Fladgate, announced that this was a first: not a single invitation offered to the morning’s event had been declined. It wasn’t out of courtesy. The 17th-century port purveyor was here at Manhattan’s Eleven Madison Park to taste through its line-up of vintage and tawny ports, culminating in a rare treat, an 1855 pre-Phylloxera port called Scion.

Korloff Voyageur Kalahari Edition

There is one thing really special about this watch and that is the five Swiss movements (quartz) on the inside. This is quite a monumental achievement in chronograph craftsmanship. This has been done using five different dials front to back. The artistry of the watch has been contrasted with the sporty exterior look. Now you can track five different time zones at the same time. The steel case is 42mm wide with a rippled texture on the side. It is polished on the formal side and brushed on the sporty side. You can see the crowns sticking out from all around it. The strap features the use of rubber on one side and alligator leather on the other side, which is quite cool. The dial has been crafted using mother of pearl and is available with or without diamonds. The price tag of this watch starts from $ 3, 175.

Via Newzy.com

Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Offshore Auto Tour

AP TOUR AUTO – UNIQUE EDITION OF ONLY 100 PIECES

– Special Black Perforated Race Strap w/ Red Stitching

The Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Offshore Tour Auto Chronograph (ref. 26184ST.00.D003CU.01) was released to mark the third year of AP’s partnership as “Official Timekeeper” of the Tour Auto Lissac. This model is a limited edition watch with only 100 pieces being released.

The Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Offshore Tour Auto Chronograph displays hours, minutes, small seconds, and a chrono, date, and also features a tachometric scale on the bezel.

Via Chrono24.com

Harley Davidson Bell & Ross Bespoke Superbike

Bell & Ross watches and the UK’s leading Harley-Davidson customizer have teamed up on a bespoke superbike inspired by Bell & Ross’ beautiful timepieces. The Nascafe Racer modified by Shaw Harley-Davidson applies Bell & Ross’ principles of impeccable performance, precision and engineering. The way that the master watchmakers develop and assemble their timepieces was reflected by the Shaw Harley-Davidson master technicians when building the bike, which is based on the “long, low and naked” Harley-Davidson FXSTB Softail Nightrain.

Via allpurposis.com

Christian Louboutin Pampas Laser Cut Pumps

These are white leather open-toe pumps with lazer, cut-out floral panel on nude toned mesh. They have brown trim details and a wood optic heel and platform. They have a rounded cap, leather upper, in-sole, and signature red sole. The heel measures 6 inches with a 1.5 inch platform. Christian Louboutin shoes $1,149

Via Global14.com

Hublot Big Bang All Black Carbon Fiber watch

Now that Hublot has the internal ability to make carbon fiber you are going to start seeing more and more impressive pieces like this. The Big Bang All Black Carbon Fiber watch doesn’t just have carbon fiber inserts, but a case that is entirely make out of carbon fiber. The 44.5mm wide Big Bang case looks adept in Carbon fiber in the “All Black” guise – especially as the dial is also in carbon fiber.

While I tend to find carbon fiber gets stale as a design element quickly, it really looks good here. The fact that the case is light weight and entirely made out of carbon fiber is a big plus. Inside the watch is a Hublot HUB4100 automatic chronograph movement. Look for this Big Bang All Black Carbon Fiber watch soon – price is 18,900 Swiss Francs or 15,500 Euros.

Ariel Adams publishes the luxury watch reviews site aBlogtoRead.com.

Via Luxist.com

Commerce. Belvedere’s Intense 80 Proof

I am an avid vodka drinker and love Belvedere. I have tried all their varieties thus far and recently received this as a gift on Thanksgiving. It was only right that i post a review of it.

By David Kelly via Luxist.com

It’s not easy to craft a new vodka that isn’t more hype than hooch. But Belvedere gets credit for creating a discernible, interesting new expression.

Belvedere 80 Unfiltered Vodka is distilled four times from Dankowskie Diamond Rye, which is a rare and super premium baker’s grade grain that gives the vodka an elegant full bodied taste that has hints of baked breads, sea salt and white pepper. Price $31.00.

The unfiltered vodka is unique for Belvedere, which follows a filtration and distillation processes with its other expressions.

The last Belvedere expression we tried wasBelvedere Intense, a 100-proof vodka.

 

Life. London Eye Coming To Atlanta

The group that created the London Eye is contemplating Atlanta as the home of the next giant Ferris wheel.

The problem appears to be finding someone willing to pay the millions of dollars it would cost to acquire the land and erect the wheel, The Atlanta Journal-Constitution reported.

Bernard Marcus, the founder of Home Depot, presided at a meeting Tuesday with the London Eye group, 30 Atlanta business leaders and Mayor Kasim Reed. Both Marcus and Reed spoke enthusiastically about the plan, but Reed said no city funds would go for a Ferris wheel and Marcus said he is not planning to provide any financial backing.

The Eye gets about 3.5 million visitors a year willing to pay $30 to rotate for 30 minutes over London in an enclosed capsule with 24 other people. The developers say a similar wheel in Atlanta would lure 2.7 million visitors a year.

Via UPI.com

 

Commerce. Oprah’s Ultimate Favorite Things 2010

The Christmas Oprah had her annual favorite things show. This being the final season of The Oprah Show she thought it nice to make it her best. The complete list can be viewed here.

Via The Fabulous Life of SaHMs/Oprah.com

 

Commerce. Vibram Fivefinger KSO Trek

These are the Vibram KSO Treks a revolutionary shoe that is as comfortable as they are eye catching. There are a few more models for men and women you can check them out  here.

Here is some information on the technology behind the shoe:

The typical human foot is an anatomical marvel of evolution with 26 bones, 33 joints, 20 muscles, and hundreds of sensory receptors, tendons and ligaments. Like the rest of the body, to keep our feet healthy, they need to be stimulated and exercised.

Many experts believe the shoes we wear not only cast the foot in a protective form, but also weaken our foot and leg muscles, leaving them underdeveloped and more prone to injury. And while there are many occasions where traditional footwear is essential for protection, safety, and security, it is equally important to stimulate and exercise the foot in a more natural state on a regular basis.

That’s why we recommend wearing FiveFingers for exercise, for play, and for fun. Stimulating muscles in your feet and lower legs will not only make you stronger and healthier, it improves your balance, agility and proprioception.

Via Vibrams.co.uk

 

Commerce. Two Online Services for Bespoke Men

Today I’m sharing two custom shirt services for the bespoke man.

First up Shirts My Way a site where you can customize everything from collar to cuff.

The Perfect Look

Create the perfect look for your custom dress shirt. Every detail, from the collar style to the cuff fabric to the thread color, is customized to your heart’s content so that the dress shirt embodies your own distinctive style.

The Perfect Fit

With our custom tailoring option, you can specify key measurements and have your dress shirt made to fit you just right. There is a special feeling in wearing a perfect fitting dress shirt, one that every man must experience.

The Perfect Match

Our customization platform lets you create dress shirts that look and fit exceptionally well. And when you order dress shirts at ShirtsMyWay, you get highly dedicated people making great shirts and providing great service.

Via ShirtsMyWay.com

Next up we have Blank Label. A site where you can co-create a shirt based on one of the many design templates they have already created.

The Story from the Start

Blank Label started as a conversation between two friends. One of them decided to go to Grad School, the other tried to start a revolution. A few years ago, Fan spent a summer in Shanghai, where he played table tennis (clichéd but true), ate a lot of dumplings (more clichéd but more true) and got quite a few co-created dress shirts made. This being able to design from scratch dress shirts, choosing different fabrics, various styling components, and being able to do it affordably, Fan thought that there may have been a $257 business to this idea, which would have doubled the money he had at the time.

The $257 Idea

The new generation of consumer has been brought up on choice. People are different – individual – and choice has been a privilege to have. What’s more choice than being able to co-create something unique yourself? Coincidentally there’s also a generation of guys who use individual style as a currency. All of a sudden it wasn’t taboo for guys to try on two shirts before going out, wanting to wear something fitted, and maybe even wearing salmon? There was something to this…

When We Were Getting Excited

Enter revolutionary ideas. A small team bands together, with common beliefs that something could be done better, that it needed to be done better. Too long had the ‘appointed’ designers branded their fans like they were advertisements of their own egos, too long were their customers supporting their over-priced Manhattan apartments. Then in came a platform where you could design your own dress shirt, a bridge to quality tailoring, ready and excited customer service to help you through this. Enter YOU as the designer, the co-creator. Enter the revolution.

Via Blank-Label.com

 

Commerce. Swizz Beats Designs: Audemars Piguet

American music producer and rap artist Swizz Beatz paid a visit to the Audemars Piguet in Le Brassus to discover the workshops and the people who make the timepieces he so greatly admires.

Swizz Beatz, born Kasseem Dean, rap artist and producer of well-known singers such as Beyoncé, Mariah Carey, Madonna, Britney Spears, Usher, Eminem and many others, had made the trip from the United States to the Vallée de Joux to experience a guaranteed change of scenery!

As a watch collector and an unconditional fan of Audemars Piguet, the star was able to admire the watchmakers’ know-how by touring the workshops of the new Manufacture des Forges in the company of Olivier Audemars, Member of the Board of Directors and descendant of one of the founding families; and of Nicolas Kappenberger, General Manager of the Swiss and Austrian market. Swizz Beatz thus enjoyed a chance to understand the technological and aesthetic developments that led to the creation of the Royal Oak Carbon Concept watch, which he has just purchased from the Austrian retailer Richard Karner and was officially handed over by the latter in the company’s Le Brassus premises.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Swizz Beatz was also treated to a preview of future Audemars Piguet models presented by Mr. Octavio Garcia, the brand’s Art Director, and which certainly caught the artist’s attention. The two men enjoyed a lengthy exchange of views on the creative process and the themes that inspire the birth of timepieces. “Throughout the visit, I was impressed by the passion and the meticulous attitude pervading these premises, whether in designing a model or making a movement! Audemars Piguet truly embodies the perfect mix between respect for traditions, hand-crafted expertise and technological innovation. It’s an incredible honour for me to have personally met the watchmakers who created my watch!”

In parallel with his artistic activities, Swizz Beatz is involved with a number of humanitarian causes, including serving the United Nations as a “Music Ambassador for World Peace”. Like Audemars Piguet, Swiss Beatz has also been actively involved in raising funds to support the people of Haiti following the devastating recent earthquake. “Swiss Beatz is an exceptional personality, a rare combination of a highly creative artist and well-known producer, along with a warm, open and generous man who leverages his fame on behalf of the underprivileged”, said Olivier Audemars after spending the day with the artist.

Via Professionalwatches.com

Commerce. Quincy Jones and Audemars Piguet

Le Brassus (Switzerland) – On the eve of the traditional Swiss watch industry vacation, a very special guest and above all a longtime friend came to salute the remarkable work of the watchmakers in the Manufacture Audemars Piguet. During his visit, the legendary multi-talented artist, trumpeter, composer and producer Quincy Jones, discovered the manufacturing secrets of Audemars Piguet timepieces and in particular those of the watch bearing his name, the Millenary Quincy Jones, which was presented at the SIHH 2010.

Before the workshop tour, Audemars Piguet Art Director Octavio Garcia recalled the fruitful work undertaken with the famous musician in creating the Millenary Quincy Jones, a watch featuring resolutely contemporary lines and a sophisticated design playing on nuances and subtle contrasts between brilliant and satin-polished surfaces echoing the notes on the keyboard of a piano, an instrument dear to the artistís heart.

For several years, Audemars Piguet and this exceptional individual have been associated in developing ìProject Qî, aimed at raising political and public awareness of young peopleís need for self-expression and the means that must be provided to ensure they fulfil their true potential. The cornerstone of ìProject Qî is the ìQ Prizeî, an international award presented by Audemars Piguet and honouring a public figure or social organisation having played a central role on behalf of children. Through his Quincy Jones Foundation, the artist is also committed to helping children by improving their well-being, their health and their dignity. The new Millenary Quincy Jones watch will contribute to raising funds for this foundation.

In speaking of the man behind the foundation, Audemars Piguet CEO Philippe Merk said: Quincy Jones is not only an amazing artist and a daring entrepreneur, but above all a man with a big heart. One cannot help admiring his career, especially considering the difficulties he encountered during his childhood. He gives us an important life lesson and naturally inspires profound respect.

Via Professionalwatches.com

 

Life.Art.Commerce. Stuart Hughes Technological Art

Here are some technology pieces from Mr. Stuat Hughes. A man who likes to put diamonds and gold on any and everything.

Art. Alexander McQueen Sculpture Platform Boots

These designer shoes are black leather platform boots with a gold floral-engraved heel that measures approximately 6 inches with a 2 inch platform. The Alexander McQueen boots have a pointed toe, contrasting textured-leather buckle-fastening straps, gold floral engraving at platform, cutout bridge detail at heel, mock-croc detailing on heel and toe, a tab at back, an exposed gold zip fastening at front and a concealed zip fastening at side. These boots have a hefty price tag, but you can save about five hundred bucks by ordering them from Zappos. $3,999

Commerce. Ralph Lauren: Polo and Rugby Fall Collections Lookbook Videos

Here is a look at the Polo by Ralph Lauren Fall/Winter 2010 collection.

 

And here is the Rugby by Ralph Lauren Fall/Winter 2010 collection.

 

Commerce. Banana Republic: Fall Lookbook

I am a big Banana Republic fan. They have great styles at affordable prices. Here is a look at their 2010 Fall collection.

All items available at BananaRepublic.com.

 

Commerce. John Varvatos 10th Anniversary Fragrance

Via Luxist.com

John Varvatos is commemorating his 10th anniversary with a special new fragrance. Described as “assertive” and “powerful” it features refreshing essences of citrus and bergamot along with Chinotto orange, Ceylonese cinnamon, Tamboti Wood, and even hints of black leather. “We have an iconic, contemporary brand in the American fashion landscape,” said John Varvatos. “John Varvatos 10th Anniversary Special Edition exemplifies both the vintage and modern edge we bring to our clothes and offers another way for consumers to experience the brand and celebrate our ten year heritage.”

The scent comes packaged in a sleek metallic chrome bottle, a redesign of the iconic original, with a signature logo-adorned dog tag. $88

Commerce. Z Shock Punch Rings

I saw a young artist by the name of Diggy Simmons wearing one of these and I liked it so much I wanted to share it with you. It is a punch ring created by the Z Shock Jewelry Co.  This particular one was made for Singer/Model Teyana Taylor. They will do custom jobs starting at $8,000. You can contact them at ZShock.com.

Commerce. Olympic Sprinter Tommie Smith Gold Medal Up for Auction

Olympic sprinter Tommie Smith’s decision to auction off his 1968 Olympic gold medal for the 200 meter dash has caused quite a stir. Smith is no stranger to controversy, when he received the metal in Mexico City he raised his fist in protest while on the victory stand. Smith later wrote a book “Silent Gesture” about that moment and his experiences afterward. Smith’s co-author on that book, David Steele, mentioned on our sibling blog FanHouse that Smith put the medal up for auction once before, in 1999.

This time it’s for sale through Moments in Time Memorabilia along with his Puma spikes and a signed and notarized letter from Smith. The opening bid is $250,000. SF Weekly reports that so far there hasn’t been a bid on the lot. The auction will end November 4. Gary Zimet, a representative of Moments in Time Memorabilia has said that Smith needs the money but “is not desperate.”

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Via Luxist.com

Commerce. Blackberry Playbook

Could this be the incentive for those blackberry users who switched over to iPhone to comeback. I’m not sure but I will be keeping an eye on it.

Here’s a report via Letsgomobile.org

Research In Motion and Sprint announced plans to launch a newBlackBerry PlayBook tablet model featuring connectivity to the blazingly fast Sprint 4G network. The 4G BlackBerry PlayBook will be the first BlackBerry PlayBook model to include wide area wireless connectivity, featuring Sprint 4G to give customers download speeds up to 10 times faster than 3G. This new 4G BlackBerry PlayBook is expected to be available from Sprint in the summer. Together, the 4G BlackBerry PlayBook and the Sprint 4G network will provide a high performance platform that will enable a mobile services revolution for both application developers and customers.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Commerce. Renard Grand Tourer

No price on this baby yet but it looks like a beast and worth every euro they plan on selling it for.

Kick the Kawasaki, ditch the Davidson and get yourself something both rare and ravenous– the Renard Grand Tourer Motorcycle.  This sexy street beast is 125 horses of V2 glory, a carbon-fiber and kevlar cruiser that’ll take you to 143 mph if the desire arises.  While it reminds us a bit of the Confederate B120 Wraith, this one’s a bit more streamlined (and a bit less naked) by design.  While that may not make it better than the Confederate, it certainly doesn’t make it worse.  This is the kind of bike you take on the road to find out who the true bike nuts are.  You’ll know them by the turning heads and the mutterings of “what the hell was that?”  Anyone else might just be too scared to look.

[renard motorcycles via theawesomer]

Via thecoolist.com

 

Art. The Ghetto Breeds Artists: An Excerpt from Wretched, Pitiful, Poor, Blind and Naked

I have come to truly believe that those who have little tend to bring true thought provoking artistry to the masses. Pain usually brings forth creativity and who suffers more than those from the ghettos of the world.

Here I share with you an excerpt from Wretched, Pitiful, Poor, Blind and Naked. A book penned by Gene Elliott Thornton, Jr.

Life. George W. Bush Memoirs to Arrive Next Month

Now I’m the farthest thing I can imagine from a politician, but with the arrival of former President Bush’s memoirs I can’t help but to share my thoughts on this book.

During his presidency I must have experienced all the highs and lows of his decision making. The highs of seeing my family being able to reap the benefits of his tax exemptions to the lows of seeing my family sent off to fight in a seemingly baseless war. I can’t help but wonder how he intends to explain his thought processes on the decisions he made while in office. Will this be a book of facts or a work of great fiction.                    Only time will tell.

 

Commerce. Ultrasone Edition 10 Headphones

These are very a very unique pair of headphones. Impressive styling. Extraordinarily expensive at $3,000 though.

Murrieta, Calif. – (October 4, 2010) – Ultrasone Inc., distributor for German headphone manufacturer Ultrasone AG, proudly announces the release of its first open back special edition headphone – Edition 10. The long awaited open back Edition 10 headphone boasts the most luxurious feature set of any special edition headphone to date. With Zebrano wood ear cup inlays, Ethiopian sheepskin leather ear cup pads, Titanium plated drivers, Kevlar coated cables and a limited number of 2010 units available, Ultrasone’s Edition 10 represent the companies most lavishly appointed and highly coveted speciality headphones ever created.

The Edition 10 is a result of years of painstaking R&D to ensure the first open backed special edition headphone met the rigorous standards set by its predecessors. The ear cups alone are a triumph in both form and function, resulting in a design never before created by Ultrasone’s engineers. Drawing inspiration from natural forms, the Edition 10’s ear cups feature high levels of air permeability through the grills, high specific torsion strength and extremely low resonance, all in a lightweight design.

The outer ear cup is finished with galvanic Ruthenium plating and with a Zebrano wood inlay, which is coated with eight layers of clear lacquer for protection. The Edition 10’s inner ear cup, as well as the head-pad, is adorned with reddish brown Ethiopian sheepskin. This type of leather is known for being the most supple leather available, achieving the maximum level of comfort and sound isolation.

The drivers selected for the Edition 10 have been specially tuned for open back headphones. The Titanium-plated 40mm drivers have been designed with a 10% more powerful magnet for enhanced sound pressure levels. Each set of drivers have been individually paired with a tolerance of +/- 0.4.

Attention to detail can be seen at every level with the Edition 10s and the cable is no exception. Ultrasone has incorporated silver-plated OFC 99.99% pure copper wires and utilized Kevlar as the casing, achieving increased current flow, improved flexibility and lower overall weight. In addition, the Edition 10 is designed to be balanced input ready, so audiophiles who wish to implement a balanced cable configuration do not have to change the entire wire, rather connect XLR connectors instead of the 6.3mm connector.

Ultrasone’s latest headphones employ S-Logic™ Plus technology, resulting in an impartial acoustic feeling that affords the listener the utmost spacious tonal perception. This gives users the advantage of wearing Ultrasone headphones for many hours without their ears hurting. Ultrasone’s newest headphones also contain MU-Metal shielding (ULE technology) that reduce the amount of radiation directed to the listener by up to 98%, as compared to conventional headphones.

Each Edition 10 headphone comes with a hand crafted Zebrano wood headphone stand and is housed in its own wooden box for safe storage and transportation. Only 2010 Edition 10 headphones will be produced, each one will be embossed with its own serial number.

 

Edition 10 Technical Specifications

* Open-back deluxe headphones with reduced emissions using the ULE standard (Ultra Low Emission) and S-Logic Plus technology
* S-LogicTM Plus technology
* Dynamic principle, open
* Frequency range: 5 – 45000 Hz
* Impedance 32 Ohm
* Sound pressure level 99 dB
* MU Metal bufferboard,
* Reduced field emissions in accordance with ULE standard
* 40 mm titanium-plated driver
* Magnet NdFeB
* Weight 282g (excl. cord)
* Cord length: 3m
* Aramid fiber enhanced
* Silver plated high-flex cable
* (OFC 99.99 % pure copper)
* 6.3 mm gold plated plug

The Edition 10 headphones have a MSRP of $2,749 and will be available at www.ultrasone.com and high-end audio retailers worldwide.

About Ultrasone

Based near Munich, Germany, Ultrasone AG has been manufacturing headphones for the audio market for over 17 years, during which time the company has developed and applied for more than 60 patents for its innovative technology. The company’s unique, patented S-Logic™ technology creates natural surround sound without the use of additional electronic devices. Ultrasone headphones represent a safer listening experience by reducing sound pressure on the ear drum by up to 40% and also by offering shielding from EMF radiation up to 98% through the use of patented ULE (ultra low emission) technology. For more information about Ultrasone headphones, go to www.ultrasone.com.

via Gizmodo.com

Commerce. Monaco Penthouse sells for $308 million

I can remember reading the story about the previous owner of this Monaco penthouse deceased billionaire banker Edmund Safra who was killed in a mysterious fire that completely destroyed the property. It intrigued me because of the beauty the place once held and I wondered if someone would take the opportunity to bring it back to glory. It seems someone has and has done an excellent job in doing so.

Luxist.com has a beautiful photo gallery of the renovated property.

You can see the photographs here.