Filed under: Estates

Dramatic real estate price cuts aren’t strictly an American thing. The Irish Independent tells the story of the Lyons Demesne estate in County Kildare which has a price drop from 80 million euros to 50 million euros. The 600-acre Lyons Demesne estate in Kildare was owned by the late Tony Ryan. He founded Guinness Peat Aviation and his son Cathal founded Ryanair. Tony Ryan is said to have spent 100 million restoring the state before his death in 2007. His restoration won several awards for refurbishment.

Ryan’s sons, Declan and Shane Ryan put the property on the market last year with the highest price tag ever seen on an Irish house. The Georgian style house was originally commissioned by Lord Cloncurry in 1785 and is on nearly 600 acres. It has 19th-century Italian frescoes by artist Gaspare Gabrielli in its drawing room. other features include a cinema, gymnasium, indoor swimming pool, wine cellar and seven bedrooms in the main house as well as four other bedrooms in a guest wing and staff quarters. The property also has five lodges, formal gardens, and a spring-fed lake with a boathouse. The listing is being marketed internationally through Christie’s Great Estates.

Ireland’s Most Expensive House Gets A Price Cut originally appeared on Luxist on Mon, 31 May 2010 16:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Filed under: Apparel, Handbags, Wine, Events, Sports, 10 Luxuries

The innovator behind Aspen Fashion Week, Lisa Johnson had a hunch that a fashion event combining the chic of skiing, winter and resort with the high energy appeal of Aspen would be a huge hit. As the Vice President of Sales and Marketing for the Aspen Chamber Resort Association, managing the destination marketing funds on behalf of the City of Aspen, Lisa worked with major events and productions like ESPN Winter X Games, HBO U.S. Comedy Arts Festival, the Food & Wine Classic in Aspen and Luxury Spa Finder’s Aspen Spa Day. Also as part of her six year tenure with the Aspen Chamber Resort Association, Lisa managed the media relations efforts and served as a de facto film commissioner assisting on film, television and commercial productions of all sizes.

“Aspen is the most recognizable mountain town and the undeniable center of the winter lifestyle,” Johnson, pictured above, center, with Lauren Bush and Ellen Gustafson from FEED, tells Luxist. “Most of the major fashion and luxury brands have boutiques here because it caters to a very high-end consumer and has some of the most influential buyers in winter and ski. I strongly felt that Aspen could support a fashion event in which designers and outerwear / ski brands could show collections in a fun, relaxed, high energy format to a consumer with the ability to walk into the stores to buy. And having Aspen Mountain as a backdrop is never a bad setting!” In the gallery are images of Johnson’s essential luxuries, from skis to wine to books and bags, along with quotes about what makes them a must.

EXCLUSIVE: Aspen Fashion Week Founder Lisa Johnson’s Ten Essential Luxuries originally appeared on Luxist on Mon, 31 May 2010 09:03:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Filed under: Apparel

Leather shorts sounds a bit like an oxymoron, but it doesn’t prevent me from wanting a pair. Helmut Lang’s Leather Shorts ($750) have a loose fit allowing for some extra comfort and has subtle details - a cuffed hem and a jersey knit waistband - that sets it apart. I love the extra large front pockets, which make them seem suitable for casual looks. Pair them with open toed flat sandals, a slim but loose fitting tank, an extra long mixed metal necklace and skinny hoops for an effortless but chic outfit. Lang’s Leather Shorts would look just as sharp with heels, any one of Valentino’s Tops and finish it off with jeweled bangles for some sparkle.

Helmut Lang Leather Shorts originally appeared on Luxist on Sun, 30 May 2010 15:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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There’s a sense of pride and joy as the world of Ferretti Yachts and Italian Design partners with the renowned Australian designer Marc Newson to bring out the special version of the historic Riva boat in high tech touch while keeping intact the…

If you have always thought of stepping in the professional F1 driver’s shoes, here’s the rare chance to bring your fantasy to reality, as a Florida-based dealer puts a 1991 Ferrari F1 Scuderia Tipo 642 racer up for sale. Assuming that you’re in.

Filed under: Timepieces / Watches

2010 sees a number of bold new Breitling watches but this Galactic 41 model is more demure - and probably a better choice for most men. After years of upping the ante both size wise and in terms of aggressive styling, the Galactic 41 collection (also coming in several smaller sizes for women) is a more approachable design that is very pure to Breitling DNA. There are a number of styles for this 41mm wide steel (also available in two-tone with steel and gold) watch. Along with the iconic pilot style steel bracelet (or leather strap), the watch features Breitling’s updated diver style bezel - that became popular on their Chronomat B01 models from a few years ago.

The dials are extremely legible - more so that many other modern Breitling watches. This is hands to decorative, though uncluttered dials that have lume applied and polished applied hour markers, as well as large polished hands. Like many Breitling watches the case is all highly polishing for that signature glossy-all-over look. I like the various dial colors options (blue, gray, black, white, cream), and the use of the textured square in the middle of the dial - a design that Breitling has been playing around with as of late - that works well here. A very handsome and well put together watch - sized for people who are sick of “too large” Breitling watches. Another solid “daily wear” from the brand.

Inside the watch is Breitling’s Calibre 49 automatic movement - that is a Swiss ETA 2896 automatic with a big date complication. I don’t know of any other Breitling watches with big date complications actually. The movement has been COSC Chronometer certified as well. Check the gallery below for more examples of the new Galactic 41 watch collection. Not sure about price, going to be a few thousand dollars of course and available soon.

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

Breitling Galactic 41 Watch originally appeared on Luxist on Mon, 31 May 2010 12:03:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Filed under: Cosmetics and Fragrance

Hanae Mori, named for Japan’s most successful female fashion designer, inaugurates its new Eaux de Collection with the launch of No. 1, a limited-edition scent for women.

The first release in a fragrance series that aims to capture the elemental forces of the sun and wind, approximately 30% of the power used to create the appropriately named No. 1 comes from renewable sources. Additionally, a portion of US sales will benefit Clean Air-Cool Planet, a non-profit organization dedicated to solving global warming through policy and education.

The structure of the scent is built using fruits and flower blooms selected in France, which are then bathed in warm alcohol to release their natural essences. Top notes swirl with fresh bergamot, grapefruit and blackcurrants, while the middle notes express white musk, jasmine and more dark berries. A base of Indian sandalwood, amber and vanilla anchors No. 1 with a warm and calming demeanor.

Sun ripened fruit, flowering petals and a classically Japanese desire to channel nature’s etherealness make No. 1 a corollary scent to the approaching summer season. Early word is that the First Lady of California, Maria Shriver, is already a fan, having received one of the debut bottles.

(3.4 ounces, $95)

Hanae Mori Debuts No. 1 Parfum originally appeared on Luxist on Mon, 31 May 2010 15:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Filed under: Events, Art

One of Newport, Rhode Island’s Gilded Age mansions, Marble House is getting back some of its original treasures, at least for at time. The AP reports that the collection of more than 300 objects of Medieval and Renaissance art amassed by the Vanderbilt family will be back at the home where they were once hosed. The pieces were bought in Paris and displayed in Marble House’s red-walled Gothic Room. But after the house closed in 1925 the collection was sold to art collector and circus entrepreneur John Ringling. The pieces now have a permanent home at the John and Mable Ringling Musuem of Art in Sarasota, Florida. The Ringling Museum has loaned the collection to Marble House through October 31 and the pieces have all been reassembled in the Gothic Room and displayed as they were 100 years ago.

The Preservation Society of Newport County operates the Marble House and other Newport mansions as public museums. With its elaborate columns and style Marble House is among the most popular of Newport’s mansions. It was completed in 1892 for railroad heir William K. Vanderbilt and his wife, Alva. The cost was a reported $11 million and it was the most lavish house in America when it was built.

Continue reading Newport Mansion Exhibits Vanderbilt Art Collection

Newport Mansion Exhibits Vanderbilt Art Collection originally appeared on Luxist on Mon, 31 May 2010 18:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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It’s not always that you share the exclusive liquors you have been trying hard not to uncork, but when you have finally decided to surprise your friends, here’s Pablo Reinoso’s innovative ice bucket to add glamour to the celebrations. Created…

As the world of kitchen appliances and gadgets increasingly blends tomorrow’s technology into our mouth-watering recipes, it is obvious that we take the benefits to whole new levels. This is what Team Synergy’s Quism cooking and dining system…

As we explore themes in ever changing design trends, it’s always a refresher to see a design paying homage to the past. Putting the same philosophy into practice, Ventury Paris has brought the Royal Rock Limited Edition furniture reflecting French..

Filed under: Wine

Napa Valley’s Shafer Vineyards, recipients of the James Beard Foundation’s 2010 “Outstanding Wine and Spirits Professional” award, recently released their 2007 One Point Five Cabernet Sauvignon.

Located in the Stag’s Leap District of the region, Shafer has continuously produced top-rated Cabernets, Chardonnays and Merlots under the guidance of winemaker Elias Fernandez, and this release is no exception. Comprised of 99% Cabernet Sauvignon and 1% Petite Verdot, the 2007 spent 20 months in 75% new French oak and 25% one-year-old French oak barrels.

Aggressively jammy notes greet the nose and are followed by plum and musty barnyard scents. A pleasantly dryer alternative to the much-maligned “fruit bombs” of the area, the palate receives gamy flavors and lots of clove. The finish is short without being fleeting.

Shafer recommends pairing with everything from Ahi tuna to roast lamb loin, although I served the bottle with shrimp and mussels in a spicy tomato sauce over fresh linguine, to praise.

And while the name One Point Five may elicit thoughts of a software upgrade its provenance is actually a bit of a familial in-joke: Doug Shafer joined his father John in 1983, just two years after Shafer’s initial release. It wasn’t so much a new generation taking over as a son catching up to his father. Nearly 17 years later, that partnership has been recognized by the James Beard Foundation for its fecundity.

(750ml, $70)

Shafer Vineyards Releases 2007 One Point Five originally appeared on Luxist on Mon, 31 May 2010 14:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Filed under: Estates

Today’s home is a two-bedroom fortress in the sky in Seattle. This one has pretty modest square footage (2658 sq. ft.) for the price but what it lacks in space it makes up for in views. The home has views from Puget Sound to the city skyline, port and beyond and wide windows capture the glorious spectacle. The greater part of the home is given over to a wide open space that incorporates the living room, kitchen, dining and lounge areas. This unit is on the top floor of an exclusive downtown high rise and an en suite stairway leads to a private terrace on the building’s roof with a spa and grill. It is listed at $6.2 million and is available with or without the designer furnishings.

Continue reading The Citadel, Estate of the Day

The Citadel, Estate of the Day originally appeared on Luxist on Mon, 31 May 2010 13:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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While dress shirts get the luxury treatment most often, you’ll find gems even among the simple polo shirt. Check out some of the most expensive polo shirts in the world.Dior Homme Striped Polo, Red ‘Bee’ – $305 This made-in-Italy black cotton polo has stylish red and white stripes and features Dior’s bee emblem embroidered in red. […]

Filed under: Timepieces / Watches, Auctions, Celebrity Shopping

Steve McQueen made the Heuer Monaco famous in 1971’s racing film Le Mans, but does Rat Pack-er Sammy Davis Jr. deserve credit for adopting it before the King of Cool? A 1969 Monaco (above) that belonged to Davis Jr. and which he wore on a trip to Vietnam to entertain the troops is being offered for sale during Antiquorum’s Important Collectors’ Wristwatches, Pocket Watches & Clocks sale in New York on June 10. The classic square-faced chronograph designed for motor racing was recently re-introduced by TAG Heuer in celebration of the model’s 40th anniversary. Last year McQueen’s own Monaco sold at auction for a world record $87,600. Davis’ watch carries an estimate of only $4,000 - $6,000, but will probably fetch much more than that.

Sammy Davis Jr.’s Heuer Monaco at Auction originally appeared on Luxist on Mon, 31 May 2010 08:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Filed under: Gadgets

While it was built before, and used during World War II, the US never mentioned the Enigma Machine details until the 1990s when it was declassified - though it is not American at all. The little unassuming box that looks like a typewriter is the subject of legend, and was a large factor in the US (and Allies) winning the war. It is unclear how things would have turned out if our greatest minds were unable to unlock the secrets of the Enigma Machine.

Built and designed by the Germans, the Enigma Machine came in a few varieties and where code creating and deciphering machines. Originally commercial units since 1926, they are quite possibly the most complex non-computerized code machines ever made (though they are a mixture of mechanical and electronic parts). The Germans used them to send coded messages during the war, relying on the machine’s ability to have over a billion combinations. No one was ever able to break the code just by seeing it. Breaking the code involved secretly capturing working Enigma Machines, but that was only half the battle. Merely having the box wasn’t enough. You needed to have some manner of pattern or other code, the helped you decipher the code you were trying to decipher in the first place - at least this is my understanding of it. The link to the Wikipedia page above has lots (and lots) more information. So being able to decrypt a code that required other codes was very tough.

Continue reading Very Rare WWII Enigma Cipher Machine For Sale At Rau Antiques

Very Rare WWII Enigma Cipher Machine For Sale At Rau Antiques originally appeared on Luxist on Mon, 31 May 2010 11:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Filed under: Handbags

Here’s a bag that both looks ‘traditional designer’ with its fine sand colored lambskin leather (it also comes in black) and a little unusual with its unique details. The Ring Around Lambskin Hobo by See by Chloe is a structured style hobo, with the baggy slouchiness being somewhat contained the way the handle is formed. Features include resin bracelet details on each side of the straps and a big dangly star charm hanging from the zipper pull of the small front pocket, both of which give it a fun, relaxed, and very girly vibe. It’s fully lined in pale dove gray and has one interior pocket. $590

See by Chloe Ring Around Lambskin Hobo, Handbag of the Day originally appeared on Luxist on Mon, 31 May 2010 17:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Filed under: Auctions

It’s time once again for one of the greatest shows in the antiques world. Red Baron’s Antiques in Georgia hosts huge auctions that people come from miles around to check out. The auction feature over 2500 items and have everything from furniture and memorabilia to vintage cars. It’s a very unique collection every time at this shop that bills itself as the home of the amazing and unusual. The next auction, scheduled for June 25 and 26 brings together vintage firearms, a 1972 Dodge Polara California Highway Patrol Car, and something called a “Bonneville” boat/car sculpture which appears to be a wooden boat on wheels.

One of the better parts of the Red Baron inventory is the selection of architectural antiques. Another piece of the Yellowstone Club has ended up here too, a tasting room that was originally from a castle in Scotland, brought to the States in the 1940s and used in a mansion in Westchester County, New York before it was snapped up by the antiques-crazy Blixseths. There are also several bars including the “Harley Pub-Bar” shown above which has swinging doors, stained and jeweled glass windows, beveled mirrors, sink, wine rack and a storage cabinet adorned with Harley Davidson carvings and decorative bikes.

The Amazing And Unusual Up For Auction At Red Baron’s originally appeared on Luxist on Sun, 30 May 2010 08:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Filed under: Apparel

Leather shorts sounds a bit like an oxymoron, but it doesn’t prevent me from wanting a pair. Helmut Lang’s Leather Shorts ($750) have a loose fit allowing for some extra comfort and has subtle details - a cuffed hem and a jersey knit waistband - that sets it apart. I love the extra large front pockets, which make them seem suitable for casual looks. Pair them with open toed flat sandals, a slim but loose fitting tank, an extra long mixed metal necklace and skinny hoops for an effortless but chic outfit. Lang’s Leather Shorts would look just as sharp with heels, any one of Valentino’s Tops and finish it off with jeweled bangles for some sparkle.

Helumt Lang Leather Shorts originally appeared on Luxist on Sun, 30 May 2010 15:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Filed under: Luxury Travel & Hotels, Spas

Mother’s Day usually brings out the spa packages but fathers like to relax too. The Father’s Journey treatment at the Blue Marble Spa in San Diego offers a papa pampering special on June 18-20. The package uses only natural and organic products and starts with a de-stress scrub with finely ground olive pits, frankincense, rosemary and ginger. This is followed by a relaxing massage that blends Swedish, reflexology, lymphatic drainage and acupressure techniques to stimulate the central nervous system and promote emotional and physical wellness. The package costs $234. The spa is part of the Mission Bay Hyatt, a hotel which recently had a $65 million renovation and has beautiful ocean views, three pools and a waterfront marina with kayaks, sailboats and sportfishing available.

Father’s Day Spa Package In San Diego originally appeared on Luxist on Sun, 30 May 2010 14:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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