|
|
|
|
Market News
|
|
top |
|
|
Company News
|
|
top |
|
|
Product Launch
|
|
top |
|
|
Exhibition & Events
|
|
top |
|
|
|
|
| World Gold Council harnesses two top Arab divas to promote gold jewellery |
 |
To advance the appetite for gold in the international market and specifically the Middle East, the World Gold Council has partnered with two best-known, popular Arab superstars—Nancy Ajram and Elissa, to promote gold jewellery. “The brand ambassadorships of Nancy Ajram and Elissa for gold jewellery have been phenomenal and have proved successful in promoting gold across younger segments of the Arab markets,” said Lama Al Saheb, PR Manager for the World Gold Council. The use of gold by celebrities in the region is also increasing by a steady pace, according to the WGC. |
|
| IDC announces new diamond grading & nomenclature rules |
The International Diamond Council (IDC) has announced that during the recent 33rd World Diamond Congress held in Shanghai, the three major international trade organizations in the diamond and jewellery industry reached an agreement to abide by the new IDC rules. According to IDC Chairman Stephane Fischler, the World Federation of Diamond Bourses (WFDB), the International Diamond Manufacturer’s Association (IDMA) and CIBJO (World Jewellery Confederation) will have consistent diamond grading standards and nomenclature |
 |
|
| Lebanon’s GDP expected to rebound this year |
 |
The World Bank expects Lebanon’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) to rebound to 3.5 % in 2008 and to 4.5 % in 2009 as domestic conditions continue to improve, Bank Audi of Lebanon said. The GDP is set to grow by as much as 5.0 % in 2010, Bank Audi said in its Lebanon Weekly Monitor Report. |
|
| May 2008 gold jewellery sales register increase in UAE |
Dubai’s gold jewellery sales volume rose 18 % in May 2008 (over corresponding 2006 figures) on a relatively less volatile and lower gold prices, according to Tawhid Abdullah, Managing Director, Dubai Gold & Jewellery Group. In the UAE capital, Abu Dhabi gold and gold jewellery sales were steady in May 2008 but demand from expatriates buying gifts ahead of the summer vacation season was expected to boost sales in the coming months according to a senior official at the Abu Dhabi Gold & Jewellery Group. |
 |
|
| DMCC unveils International Pearl Jewellery Design Programme |
 |
Dubai Multi Commodities Centre (DMCC) has announced the launch of ‘Pearl Essence’, an International Pearl Jewellery Design Programme, the world’s first global design initiative for pearl jewellery incorporating different categories of pearls including Tahitian, South Sea, Akoya and Freshwater. According to Ahmed Bin Sulayem, Executive Chairman, DMCC is working with 44 jewellery design schools across the globe to solicit entries before the early 2009 deadline.
“The professional jury will assess the deigns on four main criteria—wear-ability, commercial design, use of pearls as the main focal point and adherence to the provided theme,” said Gaiti Rabbani, Executive Director, Coloured Stones & Pearls, DMCC.A shortlist of 10 student designers stands to win several awards including a 30-day internship with an international jewellery design house, a week’s visit to Paspaley Pearl’s Offices in Western Australia and a 7-day course at the Gemmological Institute of America (GIA) campus in Carlsbad, California, USA. |
|
| Shining surprises from DGJG during the Dubai Summer Surprises (DSS) |
The Dubai Gold & Jewellery Group (DGJG) is offering a unique opportunity to win daily prizes of USD $ 2740.0 and nine weekly bumper prizes of USD $ 13,700 in gold and jewellery vouchers during this year’s Dubai Summer Surprise (DSS) which runs from 19 June to 22 August 2008. Shoppers will have the opportunity to win a total of USD $ 301,400 in prizes by purchasing gold worth USD $ 82.0 from any of the participating DGJG member outlets during the 65 days of the DSS. The Group represents over 700 members of Dubai’s jewellery trade. |
 |
|
| Damas to go public, announces intent to float shares on DIFX |
 |
Top Middle East watch & jewellery retailer Damas has recently announced its intention to go public in early July 2008 and to float shares on the Dubai International Financial Exchange (DIFX) with an offer price range of between USD $ 1.00 to 1.14 per share. The shares will be offered to Middle East and international institutional investors outside of the USA. The offer comprises 270 million ordinary shares and represents 28.0 % of the enlarged issued share capital of the company. The company expects to raise up to USD $ 355 million to fund current and future projects. |
|
| Antiquorum holds summer sale of exotic watches in New York |
Over 400 extraordinary timepieces, up for grabs in the Important Collectors’ Wristwatches, Pocket Watches & Clocks sale at Antiquorum’s US headquarters on Madison Avenue in New York City, collectively fetched in excess of USD $ 5.428 million. The highlight of the auction was a Patek Philippe Ref. 5013 watch made circa 2000—a fine and important astronomical, minute repeating, self-winding, tonneau-shaped, 18 carat pink gold gentleman’s watch with perpetual calendar and moon phases, retrograde date, leap year display with black dial which fetched USD $ 640,800, more than 80.0 % higher than its estimate. There was spirited bidding among room bidders, telephone bidders and a record number of 484 internet bidders contributing to 118.57 % sold by value and drawn from collectors from the US, Germany, Italy and the Far East. |
 |
|
| Sotheby’s mid-July 2008 London sale to offer extraordinary watches |
 |
Sotheby’s special summer sale of important watches will held in London on 16 July 2008. Among the Patek Philippe watches offered is the exceptional minute-repeating perpetual calendar wristwatch (reference 5016) estimated to fetch between CHF (Swiss Francs) 710,000 and 920,000. Whilst more than half of the auction is devoted to Patek Philippe and Rolex, other famous brands represented include Breguet, A. Lange & Sohne, Audemars Piguet, Panerai and IWC. |
|
top |
|
| Cartier spreads its global ‘Love’ message across the Middle East |
 |
For the third consecutive year, Cartier has announced its charity initiative in Qatar under the patronage of its national partners Ali Bin Ali Establishment Fashion & Luxury Division. According to Patrick Normand, Managing Director for Cartier Middle East & North Africa, 100 % of the sales proceeds of the Cartier Love Bracelet consisting of two linked 18 carat yellow and white gold mini bracelets will be donated to the Qatar Orphans Foundation established by First Lady HH Sheikha Mozah Bint Nasser Al Misnad, wife of HH Sheikh Hamad Bin Khalifa Al Thani, The Emir of Qatar.
In the second phase of the charity initiative, Cartier announced again for the third year running, its partnership with Bahrain distributor Asia Jewellers for joint support to Kingdom’s oldest charity, the ‘Children’s and Mothers Society’ founded by HH Sheikha Hind Bint Salman Al Khalifa. Similar support to local charities has also been announced for the UAE, Kuwait, Lebanon and Saudi Arabia. |
|
| Cartier names a galaxy of superstars as Lovecharity Bracelet Ambassadors |
Staying on the subject, Cartier recently hosted the third annual Loveday celebration for the first time in Los Angeles amid an intimate dinner and private reception to announce the launch of a new Lovecharity bracelet and a galaxy of accompanying ambassadors. The 2008 Bracelet Ambassadors include Janet Jackson, Fergie, Good Charlotte (US rock group), Eve Jihan Jeffers (rapper, singer & actress), Common (rapper), Hillary Duff, Emmy Rossum (actress & singer) and Ashanti (R & B singer). The reception, hosted by Frederic de Narp, President & CEO, Cartier North America, was attended by Eva Mendes, Janet Jackson, Bridget Moynahan and Keisha Whitaker, to name a few. |
 |
|
| Piaget Time Gallery opens in Geneva |
 |
A new concept, 300 sq. m. Piaget ‘Time Gallery’ was recently inaugurated on the two floors just above the brand’s boutique on the plush Rue de Rhone in Geneva. Housed in this first flagship store are on-site watchmakers and jewellers, a VIP Room where customers can relax and peruse the company’s very desirable merchandise and an exhibition of some of the brand’s heritage collections.
“The Time Gallery is a unique venue with an eclectic mix of attractions to appeal to a wide audience. The display alone will feature 700 of our most famous creations,” said Philippe Leopold-Metzger, CEO, Piaget. |
|
| Audemars Piguet inaugurates new flagship in Geneva |
Audemars Piguet officially opened its new flagship boutique in Geneva on 29 May 2008. The ceremony was hosted and presided over by Jasmine Audemars, President of the Audemars Piguet Board of Directors and Georges-Henri Meylan, CEO, Audemars Piguet. A special auction was organized for the ‘Little Dreams Foundation’ of Orianne Collins. Following the inauguration, Audemars Piguet Brand Ambassador and Indonesian-French singer Anggun offered a private show at a local club. |
 |
|
| dunhill welcomes Middle East & international shoppers to luxury emporium |
 |
Bourdon House, the London home of luxury masculine goods manufacturer & retailer Alfred Dunhill, founder of the eponymous eminent British luxury brand, will welcome discerning Middle East & international shoppers in its portals this summer tourist season. All three floors of Bourdon House, a Gregorian Building, will house the very bet in dunhill’s offerings. Selective visitors can also have access to the private spa, traditional gentleman’s barber & cigar room for that ultimate shopping experience. By-invitation only members will also be allowed to explore the exceptional restaurant, games room and other private entertainment areas. |
|
| Tiffany & Co. sponsors 30th anniversary of Dubai College |
| Tiffany & Co. the top US luxury house, recently sponsored the 30th anniversary celebrations of Dubai College, a leading institution of learning in the UAE. The glittering event at the posh Jumeirah Beach Club drew over 350 guests. “Tiffany is pleased to sponsor this occasion of one of Dubai’s oldest educational institutions and promote the cause of education in the country,” said Pegah Goldooz, General Manager of Tiffany & Co. in the UAE. |
 |
|
| BinHendi Enterprises adds GoldVish to its retail portfolio |
 |
UAE-headquartered BinHendi Enterprises has announced the addition of GoldVish, the Swiss based company in the prestigious luxury cell phones, to its luxury brand portfolio. GoldVish cell phones are available in 3 types of solid 18-carat yellow, white or rose gold. The phones are adorned with VVS Top Wesselton high quality diamonds and is equipped with the latest mobile phone technology. They come with interchangeable crocodile leather inlays and a choice of 12 different colours. An agreement was recently signed between Mohi-Din A. BinHendi, President, BinHendi Enterprises and Michel Moren, President, GoldVish in Dubai. |
|
| Korloff opens first boutique in Egypt |
| High-end diamond jewellery & fashion accessories designer French retailer Korloff has recently opened its first boutique in Cairo in the City Stars Mall. This location will feature the Lady Korloff, Fantasme and Cancun collections as well as a line of luxury watches. Founded in 1978, the brand has 52 boutiques and 450 points of sale internationally. |
 |
|
| Piaget adorns Rihanna in her latest music video |
 |
Piaget provided various fine jewellery and iconic timepiece for R & B singer Rihanna’s latest music video ‘Take A Bow’ from the re-release of her current album, ‘Good Girl Gone Bad’. In her latest video are featured the yellow gold Piaget Polo, Piaget’s most celebrated timepiece as well as multiple ‘Possession’ radiant bracelets which adorned her wrists during the performance. |
|
| Indian jewellery chain has expansion designs for the GCC |
A chain of jewellery outlets is being set up in the UAE by a consortium of Indian businessmen, who plan to expand across the GCC. The partners are investing around USD $ 82.0 million to open 18 branches in the Gulf within 18 months. According to M. P. Ahmed, Chairman, Malabar Gold, the first showroom was opened in the Emirate of Sharjah on June 19 and the stores will offer a range of designs from traditional to the modern. |
 |
|
| Repossi contributes to the Motrice Foundation |
 |
The House of Repossi headed by Alberto Repossi, third generation jeweller of Italian origin and official supplier to Prince Rainier III of the Principality of Monaco since 1994, recently donate a Czarina ring from the ‘Ere by Repossi’ collection to the French Medical charity, The Motrice Foundation, initiated by its patron Andrea Casiraghi. The event took place in Paris and was attended by designers Gaia Repossi (daughter of Alberto Repossi) and Eugenie Niarchos. The ‘Ere by Repossi’ collection is closely identified with the Byzantine jewellery of Orthodox Russia. |
|
| Jonas Brothers, Miley Cyrus rock for Ritmo Mundo |
|
The Jonas Brothers (Nick, Kevin and Joe), a US teen pop-rock group from New Jersey will rock this summer with big, bold, fashion forward timepieces from Ritmo Mundo watches. They are also expected to wear Ritmo at this year’s Nickelodeon Awards. The watch of preference is the 52 mm diameter Hercules, which comes in ten straps and dial combinations. Hercules, the premier automatic watch, is available in two different sizes, different colours and in different materials such as titanium, steel and polycarbonate.
Miley Cyrus, actress and pop-star Miley Cyrus, best known as Hannah Montana on the Disney Channel, has also endorsed Ritmo’s Palazzo Chronograph in the current issue of ‘Life & Style’ magazine. |
 |
|
| I&MT auctions its SuperCar Monaco watch to fund charity |
 |
Lausanne-based Swiss watch brand Instruments & Mesures du Temps (I&MT), founded in 2005 by Pablo V. Dana, recently held the auction of its SuperCar Monaco watch model (inspired by its Scuderia 22 series) in the Principality of Monaco on the occasion of the conclusion of the famous car race Giro d’Italia, which commenced in the Italian city of Florence. The auction yielded USD $ 49500, which was directed to CWAC, an association that helps children and families affected by AIDS. |
|
| Stephen Webster reveals new jewellery collection at ‘London Calling’ Week |
Celebrity jeweller Stephen Webster recently launched ‘London Calling’, a celebration of his striking new collections and London’s first jewellery week. Star-studded partygoers were treated to a music extravaganza peppered with fun and outlandish freak shows and acts by escape artists. Natalie Imbruglia, Tracey Emin, Kelly Hoppen and Tamara Beckwith were among those who attended the celebrations. In the UAE, Stephen Webster’s designs are available exclusively at the Harvey Nichols Stores in the Mall of the Emirates. |
 |
|
| Al Liali to unveil Rosy Blue’s new collection |
 |
Rosy Blue, a specialist in the manufacturing, design and distribution of fine diamonds & jewellery, has announced that it will join forces with Al Liali Jewellery, a Dubai-based retailer to launch exclusive ‘Atyaaf-Spectrum of Emotions’ collection. Comprising semi-precious stones set in 18-carat white and yellow gold and accented with diamonds, the collection includes designs in groups of pendants, rings, earrings, necklaces and matching sets. |
|
| Damiani to feature Sharon Stone in new advertising campaign |
|
Damiani has announced that actress Sharon Stone will be the new muse for a new brand advertising campaign. The announcement was made on the occasion of the recent opening of a 140.0 sq. m. mono-brand boutique on the fashionable Rodeo Drive on Beverly Hills.
In related news, Elisabetta Gregoraci, showgirl and veteran hostess on Italian television, has chosen Damiani Juliette collection for her upcoming high-profile wedding with Formula I owner Flavio Briatore. Refined white gold earrings made of bright diamonds, the Juliette collection has real appeal with its combination of rose-cut diamonds and a special pattern—light semi circles with hints of the Orient. |
 |
|
| Turkish designer wins Town & Country couture design awards |
 |
Turkish jewellery designer Sevan Becakci, who recently opened a boutique in the UAE, has won the 13th Annual Town & Country Couture Design Awards for the third time in a row in the ‘Best in Coloured Gemstone Design’ category. The presentation ceremony for this prestigious award took place recently in Las Vegas, Nevada, USA. Sevan’s winning design, ‘Temple of Hope’ entry combined emeralds, rubies, multi-coloured diamonds, pink tourmalines, amethysts, topaz, carved bone, mother of pearl set in 24-carat yellow & rose gold and sterling silver. |
|
top |
|
| Bulgari introduces new jewellery lines for Middle East clientele |
 |
Bvlgari has introduced the B.zero1 jewellery collection across its stores across the UAE, Bahrain and Lebanon. The collection is noted for the B.zero1 spiral motif enlivened by the use of coloured stones set in yellow and white gold with diamond pave and also in different versions using peridots, amethysts, blue topazes, citrines and garnets.
Also on offer are two new collections, the ‘Monologo’ rings and ‘Bulgari Bulgari’ collections. The ‘Monologo’ ring is available in pink and white gold with the Bvlgari logo highlighting the ring’s contemporary character. In the latter, the Bvlgari Bvlgari logo is juxtaposed with elements in mother of pearl, onyx or pave diamonds in necklaces, bracelets and pendant earrings. |
|
| Baume & Mercier launches functional Divers’ Watches in the Middle East |
Baume & Mercier has launched two new functional divers’ watches in the Middle East. Both the Riviera XL Diver and Riviera XXL Chrono Diver watches are water-resistant to 200 metres. The Riviera XL Diver watch is entirely crafted in steel with superluminova indices. The Riviera XXL Chrono Diver watch is distinguished by an expert blend of colours—black, steel and a dynamic dash of orange, tachymeter numerals and the stitching sailcloth strap. The beveled black rotating bezel enables its owner to measure dive times and indicates when it is time to return to the surface. |
 |
|
| H. Stern’s new jewellery, Van Der Bauwede timepieces previewed in the UAE |
 |
Azal, the UAE-based Al Tayer Group’s Insignia’s multi-brand store with a portfolio of the world’s leading fine jewellery and luxury watch brands has presented the latest H. Stern collections previewed at Baselworld 2008 including the ‘Hera’ and ‘Celtic Dunes’. Swiss watch brand Van Der Bauwede’s new collection launched presented for the first at the company’s flagship boutique in Geneva during the Baselworld 2008/ SIHH exhibitions are also now introduced to the Middle East. |
|
| Omas rolls out Maserati Limited Edition |
Omas, the 83-year old Bologna, Italy based historic Italian manufacturer of luxury pens, has rolled out the exclusive, limited edition, ‘Omas for Maserati’ Edition made of superior silver. Incidentally, Maserati was also founded in Bologna in 1914. The ‘front Grill’ Maserati historic emblem is mounted in the top of the cap with its aerodynamic design, inspired by the modern, innovative Maserati cars—the Gran Turismo. The tapered shiny clip, satin finish of the cap, the shiny knob in traditional hexagonal shape are distinguishing features of this classic pen whose nib is made of 18-carat rhodium-plated gold. Production is restricted to 1,200 piston fountain pens and 714 roller balls. |
 |
|
| Hautlence’s new HL Q watch unfurled in the Middle East |
 |
Swiss watch brand Hautlence has unfurled its new HL Q line, a testimony to the brand’s avant-garde creativity. This new collection plays with geometric symbols and leaves fans grappling with new and revolutionary shapes. The 44 mm case HL Q uses the time-display principle adopted for its first calibre and the HL movement has been rebuilt with the date in the form of a calendar disc peripheral to the jumping hour and retrograding minute assembly. The addition of a second movement, developed and manufactured independently as part of its collection, is further proof of the brand’s ingenuity. |
|
| Paris Gallery launches the latest collection of Faconnable watches in the UAE |
Paris Gallery, the leading luxury retailer has announced the latest collection of Swiss made Faconnable watches in the UAE. These include the new F. Chrono 2 chronograph and Hydra Sport with an interesting combination of black and rose steel for an aggressive and masculine look. The Hydra Sport is an original design that comes in black carbon or pink galvanic steel cased in black steel. Other introductions include the Rotonda, part of Faconnable’s heritage collection and the ladies LS1 Town. |
 |
|
| Montega watches releases new summer collection in UAE |
 |
Swiss luxury watch brand Montega has launched new models as part of its grand summer collection release in partnership with national distributor Damas. Montega timepieces capture the elegance, high-quality craftsmanship and refinement of the brand, which produces fashionable men’s and women’s quartz watches with polished hand-finished case, the arched crystal and engraved crown. |
|
| Catamaran unveils Racer 8073 in the Middle East |
Neuchatel-Switzerland based watch brand Catamaran, (founded in 1983 by the Swiss Watch Factory Consul), has unveiled the 44 mm diameter Racer 8073 model in the Middle East. The high resistant stainless steel case houses a Swiss made quartz movement with date and night-reading facilities. It is available in four different dials with assorted leather, rubber or stainless steel band. |
 |
|
| Nautica’s NST 48 model unveiled |
 |
Norwalk, Connecticut, USA based watch brand Nautica has launched the new NST 48 men’s sports watch, featuring an oversized 48 mm case and an authentic detail anodized, matte aluminium top ring inset into a polished steel bezel frame, which refracts light. The watch is water-resistant to 100 m and dial is available in navy, black, red and silver colours. |
|
top |
|
| Euro Pearls exhibits at Hong Kong Jewellery & Watch Fair |
 |
Euro Pearls of London once exhibited at the Hong Kong Jewellery & Watch Fair, held from 19 to 22 June 2008. The displayed merchandise included Tahitian, Baroque, Chocolate, Golden, South Sea and multi-colour pearls in all sizes and all price ranges. In addition to loose pearls, there were matched pairs, sets and necklaces. |
|
| Singapore International Jewellery Show to be staged in August 2008 |
The 4th Edition of the 6,000 sq. m. Singapore International Jewellery Show (SIJS) featuring enthralling jewellery, gems and accessories will be held in this South Asian city-state from 21 to 24 August 2008. The Show is expected to host 180 exhibitors from 33 countries and attract 15,000 professional visitors. A major highlight of this year’s SIJS is the celebration of the captivating works of Parisian artist Thomas Diego Armonia. |
 |
|
top |
|
|
|
 |
Be constantly updated on the latest Watch & Jewellery Business markets of the Middle
East, as well as information on competitors, promotions, product trends, industry
analyses, appointments, new product introductions & developments and market
research.
Our fortnightly
'Arabian Watches & Jewellery Business Newsletter Broadcast’
is distributed to over 7500 industry executives, Watch & Jewellery manufacturers
and distributors, retailers, investors and media consultants globally.
Unsubscribe
Should you wish to remove your e-mail address from the
mailing list, please reply with
UNSUBSCRIBE to newsletter@mpp-me.com.
Submission of News
Current
and topical news that may be of interest to our global reading audience may be sent
to us via e-mail to
info@mpp-me.com or newsletter@mpp-me.com .
Please feel free to send relevant and timely industry information that could be
of interest to a world-wide and trade-focused reading audience.
Open Forum
Readers
are encouraged to share their opinions and their assessment of our website. Please
write to us at
info@mpp-me.com or
newsletter@mpp-me.com to
comment, compliment, criticize or just express an opinion on any topic that relates
to the gold, diamond, gem & jewellery, pens and accessories industries
Visitation
Please
visit us at:
http://www.mpp-me.com.
|
Obtaining our news distribution
If you are aware of anyone who would like and benefit from
our timely trade news dispatch, please have them register for our TradeBroadcast
E-mail service by accessing our web page at
http://www.mpp-me.com Please refrain from forwarding the TradeBroadcast as this would
constitute a violation of our Copyright
Confidentiality
All personal and professional information held by mpparabia.com
will be kept strictly confidential and will not be divulged to any third parties
Important Copyright Notice
The
‘Arabian Watches & Jewellery Business Newsletter Broadcast’
is a service provided to senior industry professionals and business executives,
watch and jewellery manufacturers, retailers, distributors, investors, media and
Public Relations consultants globally. No portion of the text in this newsletter
may be replicated, copied, transferred, redirected, redistributed, recompiled or
published in any form without the express consent of the owners of this site.
Permission
If you wish to use this TradeBroadcast in any manner other
than for information or for your personal reading enjoyment, please send an e-mail
toinfo@mpp-me.com or
newsletter@mpp-me.com |
|
|
|
Disclaimer
|
|
MPParabia has been constituted and operates as a responsible media organization
under the governance of the current press laws of the UAE. Whilst ‘Arabian Watches
& Jewellery Business Newsletter Broadcast’, as a responsible, valuable service
to the trade makes every effort to meticulously provide reliable, verifiable information
reports and developments in the industry in the Middle East and adhere to fair press
regulations, we are not accountable for misinterpretation or inadvertent, unintended,
unforeseen errors that may emerge in the editing and dissemination process or for
reasons beyond our control. Neither MPParabia nor the Management can be held liable
for monetary compensation or legal accountability arising from published information
produced by our editorial team or derived from other business sources.
|