Photo: Glashütte Original

Glashütte Original just launched its latest women’s luxury watch collection named “Pavonina.”

Located in the German town of Glashütte, luxury watchmaker Glashütte Original has been producing the best in luxury timepieces for more than 165 years.

To celebrate the launch of Pavonina, Glashütte Original held an exclusive VIP event at the Waterfall Mansion in New York City. It was a fun, 1920’s theme party and everybody had a wonderful time.

The luxurious mansion is located in the Upper East Side of Manhattan in New York city and was fully illuminated in royal purple, the chosen theme color of the evening’s event.

Greater than 200 VIP guests were in attendance people attended the launch party dedicated to the new luxury watch. Dieter Pachner who is the Global Vice President of Sales, welcomed party guests to an exclusive preview and the brands significance.

Each of the exhibition rooms in the mansion celebrated a different aspect of women. For example, one room presented a series of ten black and white portraits featuring prominent women of the 20th century, pioneers who brought changes for the roles and perception of women.

The Pavonina Collection from Glashütte Original took its creative inspiration from the decade of the 1920’s, back when women liberated themselves from the constraints of society during those times.

Glashütte Original is proud to be an authentic high-end luxury watch designer and represents for modern and ingenious, high-quality timepieces that are natural expression of Germany’s excellence in engineering and manufacturing.

If you’re interested in learning more about the new women’s luxury watch Pavonina collection from Glashütte Original, please contact The Life of Luxury using the below form:

The Macallan

The Macallan was one of the first distilleries in Scotland to be legally licensed. The company was founded in 1824 and has since built a stellar reputation as one of the world’s leading single malt whiskies.

Luxury Scottish Whisky distiller The Macallan presents “M”, a limited edition decanter born out of the artistry of three masters of their field, Creative Director Fabien Baron, crystal leaders Lalique and The Macallan. Their ultimate goal was to create the world’s most sophisticated single malt whisky, contained in a beautifully designed and meticulously crafted crystal decanter.

The Macallan’s sublime and highly complex whisky, M is the ultimate reward for the most discerning of whisky connoisseurs.

Capturing the expressive aesthetic of Fabien Baron’s illustrious creative vision, M’s tall, slim dimensions and geometric form challenge the perceptions of traditional decanter design. Its sharp, angular facets gave inspiration to the name M itself, selected by Baron as a typographic representation of the decanter’s striking design.

Its six striking facets are Baron’s homage to The Macallan’s heritage, reflecting the six pillars at the heart of its ethos
1) The Spiritual Home – the breathtaking 390-acre Macallan Estate where every drop of M is created
2) The distillery’s Curiously Small Stills, whose unique shape gives the spirit its fruity, full-bodied character
3) The Finest Cut, the 16% of the new make spirit, the smallest figure in the industry, selected for maturation
4) Exceptional Oak Casks, acquired and cared for without thought to the cost, infusing every drop with distinctive aroma and flavour
5) Natural Colour created solely through the interaction between spirit and wood
6) Peerless Spirit, marking The Macallan’s unsurpassed place in the hearts of the world’s most discerning consumers

Just 1,750 crystal decanters of M, each engraved with its own individual number. The M Decanter is now on sale and has a retail prince of around $4,500.

Born in Australia, Cimon is a popular artist who’s paintings and sculptures are coveted by collectors around the world.

Cimon is most recognized for his elegant Collector’s Edition crystal fragrance bottle for Chantecaille Beauté. That stunning fragrance bottle won the famous artist incredible acclaim by both the media and top retailers including Bergdorf Goodman.

Absolut Birthday is the latest creative masterpiece from Cimon. The project began as a very special birthday present request. Cimon was honored to be part of the project and the final result is an amazing piece of creative art.

Cimon was asked to crystallize a bottle of Absolut® Elyx, which is the ultra premium label in the Absolut family of fine vodkas.

Cimon created this latest work of art by utilizing clear and iridescent SWAROVSKI® ELEMENTS that change color from a fire red to a burnt orange. The artistic result is one of masculine flare and exudes confidence for any man who has it in his bar.

The popular art sculptor has working with a variety of media in the past, including both LEGO and beautiful Swarovski crystals. In 2012, Cimon created a stunning art piece – 3-liter bottle of Perrier-Jouët’s Grand Brut with a wooden case that was personalized and beautifully decorated with crystal Swarovski Elements.

Absolut Birthday continues Cimon’s signature style of exploring the dynamics of color and refracted light through the use of crystals and design.

Photo: Biennale

For lovers of the art and those who can’t get enough of the romantic city of Venice, Italy … you are in luck. Now you can combine the best of both worlds.

The world famous Venice Biennale is one of the most illustrious art festivals in the world and showcases contemporary art, architecture, cinema, dance, music and theatre on every corner of Venice.

First established in 1895, Biennale is historically the oldest art festival. This special art event runs between June and November and draws art and culture lovers from all over the world to experience all that is truly one of Italy’s most beautiful cities.

Venice Biennale will be held at the Giardini, at the Arsenale, in addition to other venues thoughout the famous Italian city.

In 2013, Biennale will celebrate its 55th anniversary. The renowned art festival will showcase works from almost 90 countries, and offer 48 collateral events.

To make this a trip to remember, you need to stay in one of the luxury hotels in Venice. The BAUERs Group is widely recognized for having four of the most luxurious properties to stay in Venice – L’Hotel, Il Palazzo, Il Palladio Hotel and Spa, and Villa F.

If you still desire to soak in more art during you rVenice stay, then consider:
– The Seguso Exhibit at the BAUERs L’Hotel, daily through September 29th, 2013. The name Seguso became synonymous with quality glasswork during the fifties and sixties when the prestigious glass factory was under the direction of creative genius Flavio Poli, winner of the Grand Prix at the Brussels International Exposition of 1958.

– See the painting, Le Cortigiane (The courtesans) by Carpaccio at Museo Correr, the civic museum. Another location to visit is The Ghetto – the Venice Jewish museum.

– Ai Wei Wei Exhibit at Zuecca Gallery, on Giudecca Island, runs daily until September 15th, 2013. This exhibition at Zuecca Project Space presents us with an immediate sense of the drama of an event, which underlines the contradictory development of contemporary China.

There is so much to see and do in Venice, Italy anytime of the year. Please contact The Life of Luxury to make your travel reservations and plan your trip of a lifetime to Venice.

Getty Images

The British can finally celebrate. On Sunday, Andy Murray became Britain’s first Wimbledon men’s singles tennis champion in 77 years with a hard fought 3 set victory – 6-4, 7-5, 6-4.

On the famous grass court at London’s Wimbledon tournament, Scot Andy Murray beat #1 ranked Novak Djokovic. Murray thus became first British Wimbledon men’s singles tennis winner since Fred Perry last won in 1936.

Murray was the local favorite as it seemed all of Britain was watching and hoping the long dry spell would finally be broken. Andy Murray had a formidable foe in Novak Djokovic, who himself was a six-time Grand Slam winner.

The tennis match outcome wasn’t as lopsided as the straight set battle may first appear. Top seeded Novak Djokovic played tough for the entire 3 hour, 9 minute match at the All England Club. But eventually, second seeded Andy Murray prevailed.

The celebs were also out in force, anxiously watching all around Wimbledon’s famous Centre Court. A few of the notable celebrities spotted enjoying tennis on the warm and sunny London day were Victoria Beckham, actors Gerard Butler and Bradley Cooper, soccer star Wayne Rooney, plus Prime Minister David Cameron.

The final game of the tennis match was a nail biter as much of the day’s action saw long rallies. After missing opportunities to win on three different match points, Andy Murray finally won battling through four deuces to beat Djokovic

Novak Djokovic did have chances. He led Murray 4-1 in the 2nd set as well as 4-2 in the 3rd set. Murray was the better player and broke Novak’s serve seven times to erase the two large deficits.

Murray follows this year’s Wimbledon championship after winning the Olympic gold medal on Centre Court last summer. Andy also won his first Grand Slam title at the U.S. Open last summer.

It’s an understatement to say that having some sort of an estate plan can help benefit your heirs and the various causes you support. Passing along your assets is better left to your own wishes and desires than the legal court system.

But rather than tangible assets such as money or possessions, ethical wills bequeath values, beliefs, and ideals to loved ones.

If you want to pass along your personal ideas and values, in addition to a financial inheritance, then you will need to create an ethical will.

An ethical will is a written document that includes instructions for life, morals, values and family stories that one generation hopes to pass on to the next. Ethical Wills are gaining in popularity today as some people want to find a way to leave their loved ones with “values” instead of just “valuables.”

Unlike a last will and trust, ethical wills are not legally binding documents. Ethical wills can come in a variety of forms, from a short letter to a lengthy autobiographical statement, from an audio-recorded message to a bound album.

Some people will choose to share their own ethical wills during life, usually at an important date, such as an anniversary or family milestone like sending children to college or at their own retirement.

Ethical wills have now seemed to have gone mainstream. They are a way to share personal life experiences, lessons and ideals with the people you love. Drafting an ethical will can really help you clarify and articulate what’s important to you, how you want to be remembered and the qualities you hope your family will embody for generations to come.

An important aspect of an ethical will is you are not telling anyone what to do or think, but rather providing your loved ones with a specific reminder of you and your personal beliefs.

An ethical will can also offer practical guidance to your heirs. You can use one to assist your family in understanding how you want them to handle emergencies or any changes in circumstances, such as the need for any special financial or medical assistance.

If an ethical will is right for you, then please take the time and create one. But first , you should make sure that you have an estate plan. If you already have an estate plan, then make sure it is up to date.

Remember, an ethical will is not a legal document and is not enforceable by our legal court system. Therefore, an ethical will can not be used in place of the financial documents detailed in your own estate plan.

One of the primary hiking destinations in the Desolation Wilderness, Lake Tahoe is to beautiful Lake Aloha.

Lake Aloha lies in the shadow of magnificent Jack’s Peak, and can be easily categorized as one of the most scenic alpine lakes in the entire Lake Tahoe area.

It’s a rather large lake and is scattered with islands. Lake Aloha has a wonderful shoreline that is both stunning and quite explorable by foot.

A hike to Lake Aloha begins at the Echo Lakes Trailhead. Be aware, that is isn’t an easy hike. The first couple of miles, you will experience a hiking trail of loose rock.

If you want to bi-pass the rocky trail, you can choose taking taking a water taxi to the upper dock. The cost is only $10 per person, each-way. You will be left off near the Desolation Wilderness sign.

Hikers will experience a variety of terrain. One moment you will walk through the dense woods and the next, you will pass through small pastures.

The pastures are alive with color and aromas. You can view several types of wildflowers, including such as fuchsia paintbrush, lilac daises, and tiny yellow lilies.

Due to the elevation and unpredictable, it’s probably best you attempt the hike to lake aloha between July and early October.

Remember that all hikers who plan to hike into the Desolation Wilderness, must fill out a day pass.

You can reach Lake Aloha by taking Highway 50 from South Lake Tahoe to the intersection with California 89 on the west side of the lake. Continue on another ~10 miles, then make a right on Johnson Pass Road. Next you will turn left onto Atwood Road, then follow it to the Echo Lakes Chalet.

Photo: Breguet

Last week on June 26, was the “Tourbillon Day” which celebrates the anniversary of the patent of the iconic tourbillon watch.

Back on June 26, 1801, Abraham-Louis Breguet patented the revolutionary tourbillon mechanism, which neutralized the effects of gravity. The result was amazing precision in future mechanical timepieces.

This incredible watchmaking invention was an engineering feat and truly recognizes Abraham-Louis Breguet as one of the most innovative figures of all time.

So to celebrate “Tourbillon Day, luxury watch brand Bruget held events its luxury boutiques in New York City, Las Vegas and Bal Harbour. Bruguet guests had the unique opportunity to view the luxury brand’s extensive collection of tourbillon timepieces, as well as take part in a champagne toast.

A tribute to honor the innovative work of Abraham-Louis Breguet has been created by titled, “Breguet, the innovator. Inventor of the Tourbillon.”

This incredible exhibition highlights the lasting legacy of the Abraham-Louis Breguet, plus the impact he made with the tourbillon in modern watchmaking. The exhibition started in Geneva, Switzerland back in January. It’s a worldwide tour throughout 2013. For the U.S. the following exhibition dates are scheduled:

· Breguet Boutique Rodeo Drive: Oct 3-19, 2013
· Tourbillon Boutique Chicago: Oct 24-29, 2013
· Breguet Boutique Fifth Avenue: Nov 7-17, 2013

During Baselworld 2013, Breguet launched its new, ultra-thin Tourbillon 5377 watch. The stunning timepiece features a slim case that measures only 7mm in thickness. The dial is in both 18K gold and silver. It also houses a movement that’s only 3mm thick! However, the most impressive component of the watch aside from the tourbillon is a periphery rotor which oscillates around the side of the case allowing the wearer an unobstructed view of the movement.

The new Tourbillon 5377 watch by Breguet will be available for sale in 2014.

If you have always desired to own a luxury watch, please contact The Life of Luxury by using the below form:

Summer and libations – it doesn’t get any better than that! It’s time for celebrations and parties – these two great brands are ideal for any social occasion: Sauza and EFFEN Vodka.

The #1 cocktail in the U.S. is the margarita and Sauza wants to support the popular cocktail demand with their latest innovation – Sauza Sparkling Margarita.

Sauza Sparkling Margarita was just introduced in time for summer. It’s a ready-to-serve drink that will keep you from playing bartender all evening long. Simply chill, pour and add a fun straw or two!

Available in three delicious flavors, Sauza Sparkling Margarita comes in Wild Berry, Original Lime and Mango Peach. It’s terrific for any occasion, no matter if you’re at home or on-the-go.

EFFEN Vodka has all the right recipes to ensure your next party is the one everyone talks about the following Monday at work. Drink recipes feature refreshing EFFEN Cucumber Vodka as well as the light and sweet taste of EFFEN Black Cherry. Each choice offers a little something for every palette.

Try these delicious, cocktail recipes from EFFEN Vodka:

EFFEN® Summer Storm
1 1/2 parts EFFEN® Black Cherry Vodka
1/2 part DeKuyper® Peachtree Schnapps Liqueur
1 1/2 parts Fresh Apple Juice
3/4 part Lemon Juice
1/2 part Simple Syrup
6 Basil Leaves

Method: In a mixing glass, muddle basil, lemon, and simple syrup. Add
remaining ingredients over ice. Stir and strain into a low tumbler over ice.
Garnish with Basil.

——————————————————

EFFEN® Black Cherry Bloom
2 parts EFFEN® Black Cherry Vodka
1 part Fresh Blood Orange Juice
3Ž4 part Lime Juice
3Ž4 part Agave Syrup
3 Fresh Strawberries
3-4 Fresh Mint Leaves
Pinch of Cayenne Pepper

Method: In a mixing glass, muddle all ingredients except vodka. Add vodka
and shake with ice. Strain into a Collins glass over ice. Garnish with a
mint leaf and strawberry.

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EFFEN® Spring Breeze
2 parts EFFEN® Cucumber Vodka
1 part Fresh Lime Juice
1 part Pineapple/Basil-Infused Simple Syrup (* see below)
2 Cucumber Slices
Soda

Method: In a mixing glass, muddle 2 cucumber slices. Add vodka, lime juice
and simple syrup and shake with ice. Strain into a tall Collins glass
filled over ice and top with soda. Garnish with cucumber slices.

——————————————————*

* Pineapple/Basil Syrup
1 Cup Water
1 Cup Sugar
1 Cup Fresh Pineapple ­ Cubed
8 Basil Leaves

Method: Combine equal parts water and sugar in a saucepan. Bring to a boil,
and then add basil leaves and pineapple chunks to simple syrup. Let infuse
for 1 hour.

——————————————————

Photo: Pale Cloud

The British fashion label Pale Cloud is recognized as a luxurious children’s brand that combines both contemporary design with classic elements.

As its popularity increases, Pale Cloud has become the first choice of many royals and celebrities for dressing their daughters for those special occasions.

A recent example is Lady Louise Windsor, who is the granddaughter Queen Elizabeth II, wore the Aida Coat from pale Cloud to Trooping the Colour parade in London.

Hollywood celebs Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie dressed two of their lovely daughters in Pale Cloud for Angelina’s 38th birthday celebrations in Berlin. Their daughter Viviene wore the Charlize Jacket and Zahara wore the Audrey Dress.

Anja is the daughter of Victoria Secret Supermodel Alessandra Ambrosio, and she was wore a Pale Cloud Janice Dress at her recent school graduation in Los Angeles.

In addition, Princess Isabella of Denmark wore the beautiful Talia Dress to the 1st birthday party of her brother Prince Vincent and and sister Princess Josephine.

Pale Cloud will continue to gain media exposure as the children’s couture brand sees increased media exposure from their clothing line being worn by additional royals and celebrities.

Do you desire the latest luxury fashion? Let the experts at The Life of Luxury help you locate and purchase that ideal, fashion garment or accessory. We work with many of the top lxuury brands in the industry and often get incredible deals.

Photo: Lexus

The latest Lexus model, the new GS450h is a midsize luxury hybrid vehicle that provides almost everything someone would want in a  luxury car –  a smooth ride that’s loaded with luxurious features.

This Lexus hybrid has an electric motor built to generates about 180 horsepower from its batteries. It runs quiet, then will jump into electric mode for acceleration. Need a little more power? The gas-powered 3.5-liter V6 engine provides 338 horsepower.

Let’s jump right to the purchase price. The Lexus GS450h starts at $58,950. Of course add some nice luxury features and you can easily tack an another $10k to your purchase reprice. The rear-drive GS350 begins at a base price of only $46,900 and comes with a 306-horsepower V6 engine.

The Lexus car adaptive variable suspension offers a drive mode option allowing the driver to decide between Normal, Eco or Sport SS acceleration mode. In addition, the electronic variable speed automatic transmission helps improve gas mileage and removes the gear shifting feel.

The default mode is Eco which is perfect for your basic city driving. Saving gas is a big plus. In Normal mode, you get a little more pick-up, and still get gas performance in the 40-45 mph range.

Inside, Lexus GS450h does not disappoint. A nice brushed metal trim highlights the dash, doors and wheel. You will also find two easy-to-see round gauges for easy viewing plus a power tilt/telescope steering wheel.

The driver’s seat comes with three memory settings and the armrest on the console slides back to display a power rear sunshade button.

Seating is made of soft, two-tone leather. It’s perforated and features 18-way driver adjustments to help with increased lumbar support and side bolsters.

If you really want the best in amenities, the choose the luxury package which includes: 3-zone climate controls, front and rear heated seats, a sunshade plus adaptive Bi-LED headlamps.

IF you make a lot of long distance trips than consider the $2,000 pre-collision system. An audible alert notified you if a danger is detected, provides brake assistance in addition to monitoring the driver’s eyes to detect if they are closing due to drowsiness. Now that’s a cool feature!

Other features include a lane departure warning system for $500 and a

The Lexus GS450h ride is smooth and controlled and the engine provides plenty of power. The luxurious leather seating and upscale interior offers a stylish look that will impress your friends.

If you need help locating the best deal on a new Lexus GS450h Hybrid car, then please contact The Life of Luxury by using the below form.