Style Crave » Editors Picks

10 Watches that Shape the Future of Modern Watchmaking

Mike Payne — Tue, 22 Sep 2009 17:45:18 +0000

Luxury Watches: 10 Amazing Modern Watch Designs of the Future – The techniques of luxury watch design can be as intricate and delicate as those of a precision automobile, albeit on a much smaller scale. From crystal to carbon fiber, diamond to gold, the materials and make of today’s luxury watches spare no expense to achieve perfection. Benjamin Clymer of the excellent watch blog Hodinkee.com examined 10 of the greatest modern watches on the market today, and how they are shaping the luxury watch world of tomorrow. If you’ve got a case of watch lust, you’re going to love what Benjamin outlined below. We’ve also listed the worlds most expensive watches

By: Benjamin Clymer

Parmigiani Fleurier Bugatti 370

To commemorate Bugatti’s release of their now legendary Veyron super-car, Parmigiani Fleurier created an equally impressive machine for the wrists of its well-heeled customers. The Bugatti 370 was designed to mimic the appearance of a transversal engine, and the movement in this driver’s watch is actually spread across five separate plates lined in a row. The cylindrical design of this watch allows for easy viewing of the face while the wearer has his hands on the wheel and access to the award-winning movement. Only 150 of these watches are made each year. (Parmigiani.ch)

GreubelForsey Quadruple Tourbillon

A tourbillon is a mechanical complication designed to reduce the negative effect gravity has on the precision of a timepiece. A watch with a single tourbillon is something few can afford; a watch with four of them is truly incredible. The Quadruple Tourbillon from GreubelForsey contains four separate tourbillons that operate independently of each other. It contains a differential much like a car that allows each tourbillon to contribute to the movement’s precision as needed. (GreubelForsey.com)

Maître du Temps Chapter One

What do you get when you take three of the greatest living watchmakers and put them in a room? The Maître du Temps Chapter One. This super-brand consists of Peter Speake-Marin, Christophe Claret, and Roger DuBuis, all of whom have lead their own brand of high-grade watches as well as worked for some of the most prominent companies in Switzerland. This 558-piece marvel of modern engineering is not the most complicated watch today but it is the most interesting. It features a manual-wind mechanical movement, one-minute tourbillon, a mono-pusher chronograph, retrograde date indicator, and a retrograde GMT indicator. However, it is the two rolling bars on top and bottom of the case that attract most of the attention. The upper, moon-phase roller is so precise that Maîtres du Temps actually holds a patent on it. (MaitresduTemps.com)

Linde Werdelin SpidoLite

The SpidoLite is really Linde Werdelin’s breakout model. In the months since its release at BaselWorld 2009, it has graced the pages of countless blogs and magazines as one of the most interesting and innovative designs in modern horology. The case is made of drilled titanium, the movement is a rehashed vintage automatic from independent manufacturer Svend Andersen (that also happens to feature a blue gold rotor), and it seamlessly holds an in-house developed digital tool capable of tracking and reporting a host of valuable information. The SpidoLite along with The Rock instrument create perhaps the truest luxury sport watch in the world; stylized yet supremely functional. (LindeWerdelin.com)

Armin Strom Blue Chip Skeleton

Armin Strom employs less than 20 people across all departments (16 to be exact) and yet they have recently opened a state of the art manufacturing facility in Biel. In fact, they are on the verge of producing a completely in-house watch, something that requires a level of investment far greater than your average 16-person company can afford. The Blue Chip Skeleton represents the core of the Armin Strom brand; it features a hand decorated skeletonized movement and a level of quality unsurpassed in this price point. (ArminStrom.com)

The MB&F HM2

The MB&F HM2 (“horological machine 2”) is the most recognizable offering from this boutique brand founded by the former head of Harry Winston timepieces. Max Busser and friends (MB&F) collaborated to create a 450-piece machine that stands as the first watch with an Instantaneous Jumping Hour, Concentric Retrograde Minutes, Retrograde Date, Bi-Hemisphere Moon-Phase and Automatic Winding. On top of the technical firsts, the HM2 represents a whole new look for wristwatches. Its wide rectangular case has already seen a few imitators; none however match the sleek industrial tones of the HM2. (MB&F.com)

Pita Barcelona Oceana

The Oceana from small Spanish brand Pita Barcelona holds the record as the deepest diving watch in production at a rating of 5000 meters below the water’s surface. These extraordinary numbers are made possible via a truly innovative case-design and some the most durable construction used in watches today. The case features no winding crown and no back cover, thereby eliminating the two most common areas where the watertight seal of a watch is broken. There is also no seal between the 10mm thick crystal and the case. Only 80 units are produced each year and they are completely customizable by case material, face color, bezels, straps, and buckles. (Pita.es)

Angular Momentum Verre Èglomisé Crystal

More so than any other watch in production, Angular Momentum’s watches are true canvases on which art is created. Their Verre Èglomisé Crystal line of timepieces feature crystals on which miniature paintings have been created by hand. Dubbed “miniature painting”, the work is actually done on the inside of the crystal and only a select few artisans in the world are trained in this Roman era field of artistry. While many companies perceive watch making as art, Angular Momentum extends that label to the decoration. (Amusa2008.com)

Cabestan Winch Tourbillon Vertical

The WTV from Cabestan is built in a unique vertical manner in what is perhaps the most mechanical of mechanical wristwatches. The movement is wound with a large key that turns a set of visible cogs. A set wheels, pinions, and drums turn in synchronization to power this impressive timepiece. There is no face to this watch either, but instead two rotating drums set atop a ball bearing. The vertical tourbillon, which is run by what looks like a small bicycle chain, is the first of its kind. Even the crystal on this watch is unique; it consists of 6 hand blown pieces of Pyrex. (Cabestan.ch)

The Urwerk 202

Released in May 2008, the Urwerk 202 was the very first timepiece to integrate fluid dynamics into a watch’s movement. Each of the three minute gauges extend and retract to point to the appropriate time while the automatic winding is regulated by two small turbines seen through the back of the case. The hour is displayed via three orbiting and rotating satellites. These miniature air compressors act as shock absorbers to the movement and increase the lifespan and accuracy of the watch. (Urwerk.com)

Thanks for reading, StyleCravers, and thanks to Benjamin from Hodinkee for putting together this lusty little watch list. If you enjoyed Benjamin’s analysis, be sure to hit up his great watch blog for news, reviews and more on the world of watches. In the mean time, you might want to check out these other StyleCrave features:

16 of the Hottest European Models

William Barnes — Thu, 10 Sep 2009 16:57:03 +0000

Hottest European Models - Everyone knows models are hot, but few of us ever stop to learn more than that — and for some reason they’re all from the same place, they’re all European Models. It may come as a surprise that the photogenic babes splashed across magazine covers and billboards have home countries, interests, hobbies, and a life story wholly separate from knockout looks. So today, we will take a look at 15 of Europe’s hottest models, how they got their start, and (in some cases) what their lives consist of while not on runways or behind cameras.

16. Heidi Klum

(Image)

No discussion of hot European models would be complete without Heidi Klum, the German beauty who parlayed her stunning looks into success as an actress, businesswoman, TV producer and host, fashion designer, artist, and even singer (an endeavor no doubt helped by her marriage to Seal.) Readers will recognize Klum as the hostess of the wildly successful TV show Project Runway, as well as Germany’s Next Top Model. Her biggest film role to date has been 2006′s The Devil Wears Prada.

15. Filippa Hamilton

(Image)

France’s Fillippa Hamilton, 23, is the unmistakable face behind the Ralph Lauren perfume brand “Romance.” Having gotten her start in modeling at just fifteen, Hamilton has been a mainstay at Ralph Lauren since being discovered on the streets of Paris, and projects as a rising star with a bright future in innumerable modeling campaigns for the company in years to come.

14. Naomi Campbell

(Image)

This London-born model and design maven got her start at the ripe age of seven, when she appeared in the music video for Bob Marley’s “Is This Love?” according to People. Naomi Campbell also holds the distinction of being the first black cover girl for Vogue Paris magazine, as well as British Vogue. Additionally, Campbell is a trained ballet dancer who has collaborated with numerous musical artists including Vanilla Ice. Unfortunately, she is perhaps best known for an ugly incident involving throwing her jewel-encrusted Blackberry phone at one of her maids, resulting in five days of required community service.

13. Jana Cova

(Image)

Recognizable from her work in Boss Magazine, Jana Cova hails from the Czech Republic and has made a respectable career for herself in the modeling profession. Having used her green eyes and blonde hair in everything from catalogs to showrooms, Cova is a force to be reckoned with on the international modeling circuit (and quite a catch if you ask us.)

Cova has also performed in a number of adult films that can be read about in detail on her Wikipedia page.

12. Karolina Kurkova

(Image)

25 year old supermodel Karolina Kurkova has scored some truly envy-inspiring gigs with the likes of Oscar de la Renta, Balenciago, Ralph Lauren and Chanel. It all started with her youthful entry into the field at 15, when she promptly landed a photo shoot at prestigious Vogue New York. It was all up from there for this blonde bombshell, who has consistently earned top dollars and plush assignments ever since, such as starring in Victoria’s Secret fashion shows, according to her website.

11. Kate Moss

(Image)

Kate Moss’s $9 million in 2007 earnings ranked her second on Forbes‘ list of the richest supermodels. With a body that has evoked comparisons to Cindy Crawford and Naomi Campbell, Moss has garnered recognition from around the industry, including an 8th place finish in Maxim’s 50 Sexiest Women of 1999, 8th place in Celebrity Sleuth’s 25 Sexiest Women of 2004, and the Sexiest Woman in Arena’s ceremonial 150th issue. Moss is also known for her numerous celebrity flings (including Johnny Depp) and past cocaine abuse.

10. Julia Stegner

(Image)

A native of Munich, Germany, Julia Stegner has graced the cover of Vogue several times in her still-young career. Following her discovery by a talent scout, Stegner relocated to Paris where her modeling career began to take off. She was off to the races after her first appearance on the cover of Elle Magazine, going on to model for D&G, Hugo Boss, Ralph Lauren, Victorias Secret and Maybeline, among other big-name retailers.

9. Alessandra Bosco

(Image)

A model since the age of five, Italy’s Alessandra Bosco has assembled an impressive resume of magazine appearances, interviews, and fashion spreads in her time as a model. Bosco’s website lists her bikini modeling endeavors and notes that she has also studied hotel management and psychology. Photographers describe Bosco as a “versatile model and a natural talent” who can also sing and act when she is not posing for work-related ventures.

8. Sandra Scholz

(Image)

Sweden’s Sandra Scholz has used her scintillating body to sell underwear, swimwear, and various garments for manufacturers including Rolfsson. Additionally, Scholz has posed nude in “body art” presentations on Canary Island and other scenic locales.

7. Malgosia Bela

(Image)

Poland’s Malgosia Bela first hit the runway in the late 1990′s, and the 32 year old has not lost a step in the years since. Aside from a brief and mostly uncelebrated stint in the Polish film circuit in 2001, Bela’s impressive career includes work with Valentino, Versace, Lanvin, and Louis Vuitton.

6. Ariadne Artiles

(Image)

Perhaps best known for her work with Abercrombie & Fitch, Ariadne Artiles has had an enviable modeling career that has taken her from Miami to Milan, Germany to Spain, and virtually everywhere in between. A comprehensive list of magazine covers featuring Artiles from 2003 to 2005 can be found on her EuropeModels.com page.

5. Julia Serova

(Image)

Lithuania’s Julia Serova has worked primarily with swimwear maker Fianeta since her 2001 entrance into the field, according to the model’s personal website. She has appeared in several magazines, including Cosmopolitan, and her entire portfolio of photographed work can be seen here.

4. Doutzen Kroes

(Image)

Hailing from the Netherlands, Doutzen Kroes is one of the rising stars in today’s fashion circuit. Having appeared in magazines ranging from TIME, Harper’s Bazaar, Numéro and Vogue, Kroes has also been a top model for Victoria’s Secret since 2004 and participated in their fashion show from 2005 through 2008, according to CBS. When asked about her favorite part of the model lifestyle, Kroes cited “the parties [she] gets invited to”, as well as “the places I get to travel.”

3. Daria Werbowy

(Image)

AllWomensTalk.com pegged this Polish beauty’s 2006-2007 modeling earnings at a whopping $3.5 million. As they note, the 24 year old’s career has “had its ups and downs”, but we think most aspiring models would sign up for some adversity if it meant eventually scoring lucrative gigs with labels like Pepe Jeans, Valentino, Prada and Chanel.

2. Sasha Pivovarova

(Image)

Contrary to popular stereotypes, not every model is stick-thin and bordering on anorexic, Sasha Pivovarova has made a name for herself with a muscular and fit body. The Russian-born model was a late comer to the industry, getting her start in 2005 when a photographer friend snapped a few photos and passed them along to modeling conglomerate IMG, according to Sports37.com.

1. Lily Donaldson

(Image)

Lily Donaldson has represented modeling titan IMG across Europe, from London (her hometown) to Paris to to New York to Milan. In addition to her worldly travels, Donaldson is said to be among the highest-paid models today, having parlayed her work with distinguished designers like Luis Vitton and Chanel into enough financial success to purchase a $22 million home in New York, according to her website. Her current work includes campaigns for Burberry, Ralph Lauren, and Mulberry.

And in honor of Lily, check out those she had to beat out to walk the Victoria Secret fashion show…

14 Mens Fashion and Style Icons

William Barnes — Tue, 07 Jul 2009 16:18:35 +0000

Fashion has always been, and always will be dynamic. But style is timeless. The former is largely concerned with the what is cool, or what trends are at what time, etc. The latter, is not. Few men exhibit times timeless cool and display of good taste, and those that have shone in the public eye deserve mention. The following fourteen men are ones which we believe deserve mention as having some of the most iconic style, during the last century

Frank Sinatra

source

Sinatra embodied an era of men’s style and grace. The hard-drinking, heavy-smoking ‘Rat Pack’ founding member seemed to never lose his cool, even in the midst of his son’s kidnap debacle. People questioned his potential ties to the mafia, but no one ever denied that he was the entertainer of the day. Old Blue Eyes always seemed well put-together, and our hat goes off to him for his matter-of-fact and effortless style.

Joe Namath

source

The panache it took to wear saddle shoes, a fur coat and wayfarers while on the sidelines is second to none. Joe Namath was a football player back in the days when athletes could still be national heroes, not petty criminals or castmembers on third-tiered reality television shoes. Namath also showed us that athletic prowess and a penchant for dressing one’s best were not mutually exclusive. Kind of a Sean Avery of yesterday – but without the pomp and circumstance. Broadway Joe was also famous for predicting his Jets would win Superbowl III and in later years, he would don a mean fu-manchu – before it was ironic, or cool to have one.

Marlon Brando

source

We’re not talking bitch-tits, Dr. of Island Moreau Brando, we’re talking bad ass, A Street Car Named Desire Brando. Widely considered the first noticeable male sex symbol of the silver screen, Brando would later come out and appease his entire fan base, by admitting to being bisexual. Brando’s take on men’s style would spawn generators of emulators, and his iconic style would only be emboldened by later roles in The Godfather franchise, and breaking the jaws of paparazzi. Interestingly, his grandson, Tuki Brando, is currently the face of Versace.

James Dean

source

Not a whole lot of commentary is really needed to help explain why Dean is on the list.

Brad Pitt

source

Fight Club. Mr and Mrs Smith. Snatch. Oceans Eleven. Legends of The Fall. While some of these movies might not be everyone’s favorite, they all contributed Brad Pitt’s superstar status. Pitt consistently tops the ‘Most Attractive Men’ lists in the celebrity gossip rags, and his performance in Fight Club alone would merit his inclusion to this list. In the last decade, Pitt has shown the world that he can play serious roles too, and seems to never be caught off guard by the paparazzi. Whether he’s working with orphans in Addis Ababa, or he’s cruising on his Triumph in New Orleans, he seems to do so with a masculine grace that has only developed as he’s entered middle age. We look forward to the release of Inglorious Basterds.

Paul Newman

source

This picture (above) is a perfect illustration of the actor that would go on to embody the titular role he filled in Cool Hand Luke. Newman was famous for his fidelity, even though he could have had any woman in the world, at the drop of a hat. And integrity is never in bad form. His decision to go into organic food production before it was the in thing to do, only adds to his status as a a trailblazer. One of the few actors to transition from 1950s cinema to that of the 1960s and 1970s, Newman remains an institution of America male style, and arguably one of the coolest guys of all time.

Johnny Depp

source

After his work on the Pirates franchise, Depp seemed like he was taking his role as a Keith Richards-as-Jack Sparrow a little too serious, but this ended up not being the case. No one has gone from 1980′s teen heartthrob to critically-acclaimed actor quite like Depp, and we appreciate his take on the Hollywood superstar that seems to not appreciate the attention. While his appearance might actually be the choreographed workings of a team of stylists, it seems very thrown together and carefree. This fits his demeanor, and is one that most everyone can appreciate in terms of aesthetics.

Steve McQueen

source

Steve McQueen was rumored to smoke a pack of cigarettes and consume whiskey, marijuana and cocaine on a daily basis, all while maintaining a 2-hr daily exercise regimen. That’s what we call dedication – both to a serious affinity for vice, as well as to maintaining a well-defined physique. The King of Cool had an effortless and oft-imitated style, that seemed to be just what the world was looking for at the time. He was a sort of anti-hero, and his style transcended the clothes he wore; the guy raced motorcycles and pretty much all of his own stunts.

Jason Statham

source

This former diver-turned-actor has proved to bald men everywhere that it if you are losing hair, there is still hope: you just have to get in really good shape, acquire a street-smart Londoner accent, and kick a lot of ass. But in all seriousness, Statham has been able to earn major roles even though he shares few characteristics with the stereotypical Hollywood leading man. He also tends to carry himself in a confident way that never looks bad. He is probably the most unassuming inclusion in this list, but deserves mention nonetheless.

Cary Grant

source

Cary Grant was for many decades the prototypical leading man: debonair, handsome, and charming. Try finding a picutre of him in anything other than an impeccably tailored suit – they simply do not exist. His public image represents all that should be masculine about men’s fashion, and his timeless appearance has become the benchmark for black-tie events, awards presentations, and galas. Grant also deserves special mention for the fact that he was an ardent Republican, but never used his stardom as a soapbox, to preach his political opinions. Only later in his life, when his friend Ronald Reagan ran for President, did he come out and publicly support any candidates.

Robert Redford

source

Robert Redford was Brad Pitt before there was a Brad Pitt. Packaged to audiences as the quintessential all-American male, Redford has a number of accomplishments in various capacities. If you need a reminder of what Redford was like in his prime, watch The Natural or Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid. The amount of trim he was able to rack up, probably rivals that of Wilt the Stilt.

Sean Connery

source

This foul-mouthed Scotsman was not what James Bond creator Ian Fleming had in mind for an on-screen adaptation of his beloved character. But, it just seemed to work. Rumor has it that after Dr. No, Fleming was so taken by Connery’s ability to morph into the suave, special agent that he worked into the character’s back-story a half-Scottish, half-Swiss ancestry. Even into the early 1980s, wherein Connery donned a number of questionable head-rugs, he still was able to give believable performances as the ultra-masculine, sexually charismatic Bond that subsequent actors have only attempted to recreate. To many, Connery is Bond.

David Beckham

source

Love him or leave him, Beckham has got style. While the personal lives of professional footballers and their lady friends have recently become a thing of undeserved scandal, Beckham’s is the real deal. While some claim he is overrated as a mid-fielder, the long-serving captain of England’s National Team has done a lot for the game, including (many argue) contributing to the increased popularity of the sport in the U.S., and he is often lauded for his many charitable works. To top it off the guy always looks well put together, with either long hair or a shaved head, and he can pull of his many tattoos even in business-casual attire. Even his high-pitched voice seems appropriate, and slightly capable of cutting him down to size – but it doesn’t.

Michael Jordan

source

Michael Jordan’s style has always seemed effortless, whether he was on the court, or in a well-tailored, Italian suit. Many basketball players look a bit funny in suits – truth be told – because it’s hard to look sauve when you are nearly 7′ tall. But Jordan pulls it off in swell fashion. Jordan also merits special distinction for balding with grace and dignity. He actually met his receding hair line head-one, by just shaving the whole thing. When you are the most dominating basketball player of all time, no one is going to bring up the fact that you are losing your hair.

Bob Dylan

source

Many claim Bob Dylan is really a poet, but he just happens to sing and play music as well. Regardless of your take on that bit of whimsy, no one can deny Bob Dylan’s contribution to musical style and innovation. Fashion wise, this rolling stone is also one of the most widely-emmulated individuals the entertainment and arts industries have ever experienced. The above picture does a good job of summing up why this is the case; he’s basically on the same level as Mick Jagger and Keith Richards, but without the decade-long periods of fashion insanity and peyote.

Time Is Money: 10 Of The World’s Most Expensive Watches

Joe Wertz — Fri, 29 May 2009 18:42:47 +0000

Most Expensive Watches: The key to getting the best of the most expensive watches is that they should long outlive its wearer. The great watches are still handmade today by skilled craftsmen who tame metal into precision tools that rival the most complicated machinery in the world. Time may be precious, but is it priceless? With these lavish watches, you’d think so. Here are the 10 most expensive watches in the world, many of which represent more money than a single person can expect to earn in their entire lifetime. We’ve also compiled a list of modern luxury watches and you can also check out our daily coverage of mens expensive luxury watches.

10 – $734,000 – Breguet pocket watch 1907BA/12

Built by the centuries-old watchmaker credited with creating a device to foil gravity, Breguet’s pocket piece is an 18-karat yellow-gold case with a hand-engraved movement and a two-way rotating crown. [pic via]

9 – $800,000 – Blancpain 1735, Grande Complication

Between the crocodile leather strap of the Blancpain 1735 lies 740 watch parts and a year in the live of a dedicated watchmaker. The watch has a platinum case and elements displaying a perpetual calendar, lunar phase and a split-second chronograph. [pic via]

8 – $860,000 – Louis Moinet Magistralis

Inside the Louis Moinet Magistralis rests a piece of a 2,000-year-old lunar meteorite. Outside, the 18-karat gold watch has a movement that displays a minute repeater, perpetual calendar and a push-button chronograph. [pic via]

7 – $1 million – Hublot Black Caviar Bang

Made from an 18-karat white-gold case packed with 322 diamonds, the Hublot Black Caviar is the most unassuming timepiece on our list. Still, diamonds are packed onto every spare square of space, including 179 crammed onto the bezel and 30 encrusted on the clasp. [pic via]

6 – $1.1 million – The Chopard Super Ice Cube

This Chopard has 66 carats worth of diamond-encrusted glory. It’s gaudy, ugly, square-faced and worth more than a million — just like Ice Cube. [pic via]

5 – $1.3 million – Patek Philippe Sky Moon Tourbillon

Patek Philippe. Get used to that name, you’ll be seeing it again. This rare timepiece has two faces and a reputation as being the watchmaker’s most complicated model. It has a perpetual calendar, retrograde date and lists the lunar phase. A flip of the watch reveals a celestial view detailing the sidereal time and a skychart that traces the stars and phase and orbit of the moon. [pic via]

4 – $1.5 million – Vacheron Constantin Tour de l’Ile

There are 834 parts inside the Vacheron Constain’s Tour de l’lle, a watch considered “the most complicated watch ever made” by some. The watch lists two time zones, gives the sunset time, has a perpetual calendar and an astronomical indicator of the night sky. [pic via]

3 – $4 million – Patek Philippe’s Platinum World Time

A $4 million auction bid made Patek Philippe’s Platinum World Time the most expensive watch in 2002. The self-winding watch displays each of the 24 time zones and is known for its readability, user friendliness and having separate and switchable night and day tones. [pic via]

2 – $11 million – Patek Phillipe’s Supercomplication

Patek Philippe’s supercomplicated creation is also super expensive. The famed watchmaker finished the timepiece in 1932, a four year-long commission to create a watch for Henry Graves Jr., who had waged watch-war with James Ward Packard. The yellow-gold watch has two faces and 24 complications and was bought at a Sotheby’s auction for a little over $11 million. [pic via]

1 – $25 million – 201-carat Chopard

The watch face is somewhere there in the middle, surrounded by 201 carats. This watch-bracelet comes with a trio of heart-shaped diamonds: A 15-carat pink diamond, 12-carat blue diamond and an 11-carat white diamond, all of which open when a spring-loaded mechanism. More than 600 yellow diamonds are sprinkled alongside 91 or so colorless diamonds. [pic via]

Thanks for reading, StyleCravers, Diggers, Stumblers and more. So what do you think? A little outrageous, huh? Do you feel that some of these fine watches justify their price? Let us know in the comments, we’d love to know your take on this!

20 of the top watches in the world…

Sea Worthy: 10 of the World’s Most Expensive Mega-Yachts

Joe Wertz — Fri, 22 May 2009 19:15:54 +0000

Luxury Yachts – The world’s wealthiest sea-goers travel in the ultimate luxury. Their huge luxury yachts feature helipads, multiple swimming pools, a full staff and the latest in nautical technology. They don’t come cheap– as the ten yachts on this list are worth a combined 1.6 billion dollars. Want to see how the rich hit the deep blue sea? Grab your swim trunks, your flippie floppies and your nautical-themed pashmina afghan– and see how the world’s wealthiest do it on a boat.

10. $90 million – Le Grand Bleu

From one Russian billionaire to another, the 370-foot Le Grand Bleu was reportedly gifted to Eugene Shvidler from its previous owner, Roman Abramovich — a name that sails on further down the list. Built in Germany’s Vulkan yard and launched in 2000, Le Grand Blue is grand indeed, setting out with a pair of 3,600-horsepower Wärtsilä engines, a crew of 50 and an onboard 74-foot sailboat and 67-foot speedboat. [pic via]

9. $100 million – Tatoosh

The 301-foot Tatoosh is owned by Microsoft co-founder Paul Allen, a secretive kind of guy, who is said to bar reporters from coming aboard. The mega-yacht supposedly has its own theater, swimming pool and lobster tank and obviously has landing pads for two helicopters. [pic via]

8. $103 million – Annaliesse

Three dozen guests can spread out in the 280-foot Annaliesse’s 15 staterooms, a mega-yacht that treats cruisers with marble columns, its own “full-service” spa, salon, library, children’s play area and movie theater with a 100-inch screen. The master stateroom has a king-size bed and remote-controlled panoramic windows. [pic via]

7. $116 million – Alysia

The 280-foot sister ship of the Annaliesse, the Alysia is the slightly prettier of the pair. The ship’s 1,300 square-foot master stateroom comes with its own private deck, jacuzzi, marble decked bathroom and California king-size bed. Elevators whisk guest through five decks, which include a sundeck with barbecue, a bar, an 8-person hot tub, spa, gym, salon and a 500-bottle wine cellar. Can’t stand the wine, pampering, massages and endless tanning? — make an underwater escape with a pair of “scuba scooters.” [pic via]

6. $129 million – Ecstasea

Another toy of Chelsea Football Club-owning Roman Abramovich, the 250-foot long Ecstasea was built with an Asian-inspired interior theme, complete with bamboo furniture. The ship’s walls are paneled with carved cherry and guests pad around on marble flooring. Onboard, a disco, sauna and Turkish bath greet guests, who can arrive or depart from either retractable helipad. [pic via]

5. $130 million – Pelorus

Oh, Roman… how can thee outdo thine self? Pool — check. Helipads — a pair. Staff? — 40, including a few from Britian’s SAS. Mini-submarine — aye-aye. Missile detection system? — why not! [pic via]

4. $200 million – Octopus

Another Paul Allen project, the Octopus is a 416-foot sea beast tamed only by a crew of 40, some of which are said to be ex-Navy Seals. The ship hosts seven smaller boats, two helicopters, a 10-person submarine and like a luxurious Kraken, the Octopus lashes out at the sea with a robotic submersible, which scours the ocean floor. [pic via]

3. $200 – Rising Sun

A yacht so beloved, it comes with its own fan site! The 453-foot Rising Sun is co-owned by Oracle CEO Larry Ellison and famed producer David Geffen. The five-story boat has 82 rooms and more than 24,000 square-feet of living space. Highlights include onyx countertops, 9,900 square-feet of teak-layered decking, a movie theater and a basketball court/helipad. [pic via]

2. $210 million – Lady Moura

At 354-feet long, the Lady Moura is a big woman built in 1991 by “order” of Saudi Saudi Prince Nasser al-Rashid. So large it has trouble entering the harbor of Monte Carlo, the mega-yacht reportedly has a crew of 60, a pool with a retractable roof and its very own mock beachfront complete with sand. The yacht made its biggest wave in 2007 when it ran aground at that year’s Cannes Film Festival. [pic via]

1. $350 Million – Dubai

Owned by Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the ruler of Dubai, the 531-foot Dubai has interiors designed by Philippe Starck, space for 115 guests and 88 crew members, six guest suites and five VIP suites — all with open balconies. Interior spaces are channeled towards a “massive” foyer and atrium that connects each of the mega-yacht’s eight deck. Outside, the ship hosts a large pool, squash court, helipad and a small aircraft hanger. [pic via]

Check out a video of some of the most expensive yachts below…

Royal Resorts: 10 Outrageous Hotels For The Mega-rich

Joe Wertz — Fri, 15 May 2009 21:00:37 +0000

MOST EXPENSIVE HOTEL IN THE WORLD: Most of us have simple demands when it comes to travel lodging– a bed, a bathroom, a TV and wi-fi. There are others, however, whose demands far eclipse the simple convenience of your basic hotel room. When the world’s most wealthy travelers take a vacation for their own, they are treated to suites that cover entire floors of a hotel building, rooms that include a personal butler, hell– some even come with their own private helicopter, which is why we are here to talk about the most expensive hotel in the world! Take a peek into the experience of the world’s most wealthy travelers. Here are 10 of the most expensive hotel rooms in the world.

10. $15,500 a night – Imperial Suite, Park Hyatt-Vendôme

Paris, France

Situated on the second floor of the Park Hyatt-Vendôme’s Haussmanian building is the hotel’s 750 square-foot Imperial Suite. This pricey suite has high ceilings, a dining room, kitchenette and bar. When visitors tire of toiling, they relax with an “In Suite Spa” that comes outfitted with a steam room, Whirlpool and built-in massage table.

9. $16,000 a night – Royal Suite, Four Seasons George V
Paris, France

The George V in Paris boasts a pair of “sumptuous” Royal Suites that each come with private terraces and rooms filled with antique furniture. Each suite has a marble entrance, a full kitchen, a sauna and a separate bathroom for guests. The expensive 2,600 square-foot suites are split into separate spaces for sleeping and entertaining, both of which also have a private office. And yet this is a cheap version of the most expensive.

8. $17,500 a night – Royal Armleder Suite, Le Richemond
Geneva, Switzerland

Le Richemond’s Royal Armleder Suite reopened in 2007 after an extensive restoration of the hotel’s seventh floor, which the luxury suite occupies the entirety of. The suite is bedecked in gold, mosaics and parquet floors and has a 300 square-foot terrace with stunning views of Geneva and the nearby Alps.

7. $18,000 a night – Royal Suite, Burj Al Arab
Dubai, United Arab Emirates

A two-story suite that centers around an epic staircase, Burj Al Arab’s Royal Suite has Carrara marble floors, mahogany furniture and a master bedroom with a rotating four-post canopy bed. Guests enjoy Hermes bathroom products, Faubourg fragrances, their own private elevator and cinema and for a bit extra– a chauffeur driven Rolls Royce or helicopter.

6. $18,200 – Ritz-Carlton Suite, The Ritz-Carlton
Moscow, Russia

Floor-to-ceiling windows outline the Ritz-Carlton Suite at the hotel chain’s Moscow location making it one of the most extravagantof the expensive. Imperial furniture fills the 2,500 square-foot suite, which comes with a heated floor, a grand piano and a library. The suite has views of the Kremlin, Red Square and St. Basil’s Cathedral and visitors get to enjoy five meals a day and their very own KGB-approved autonomous energy supply system and secure telecommunications array.

5. $25,000 a night – Bridge Suite at The Atlantis
Paradise Island, Bahamas

The 10-room Bridge Suite at Bahamian resort The Atlantis fills the entire space linking the hotel complex’s two flagship towers. Forbes reports the suite has hosted guests including Oprah and Michael Jackson. [pic via flickr]

4. $33,000 a night – Royal Penthouse Suite, President Wilson Hotel
Geneva, Switzerland

President Woodrow Wilson reportedly suffered from high blood pressure, so it’s safe to assume he would have appreciated a stress-free stay at President Wilson Hotel’s Royal Penthouse Suite. Consuming the entire top floor of the hotel, the four-bedroom suite can hold up to 40 guests in its cocktail lounge and is said to be the best digs for heads of state wanting to make an impression when they’re in town on United Nations business. [pic via guardian uk]

3. $34,000 a night – Ty Warner Penthouse, Four Seasons
New York

The Ty Warner Penthouse practically floats in Manhattan. Floor-to-ceiling windows surround all sides of the massive suite, surrounding guests in 360-degree views of the city skyline from atop Manhattan’s tallest hotel. The nine-room suite has walls inlayed with mother of pearl, gold and platinum-woven fabrics, and the room itself includes a private butler, unlimited global calling and TVs programmed to receive every channel in the entire world.

2. $40,000 a night – Hugh Hefner Sky Villa, Palms Casino Resort
Las Vegas

Hugh Hefner’s Playboy-themed suite at the Palms Casino resort has a $700,000 jacuzzi that cantilevers out above the Las Vegas strip. The 10,000 square-foot, two-story suite comes with around-the-clock butler service and (of course) a rotating bed set beneath a mirrored ceiling. [pic via guardian uk]

1. $50,000 a night – Royal Villa at Grand Resort Lagonissi
Athens, Greece

Get ready for the most expensive hotel money can buy. The Grand Resort’s Royal Villa gives the world’s most exclusive guests a private version of everything imaginable. The only other people lucky guests have to see while secluded in their heated pool, steam room or private beach is the suite’s dedicated butler, chef and pianist.

- - - - -

Thanks for reading, StyleCravers, Diggers, Stumblers and otherwise. If you had the money, would you ever stay in any of these royal suites? Which is your favorite? Would you prefer the frugal route of a cheaper hotel? Let us know in the comments!

Check out a video of some of the most expensive hotel rooms:

Want more extravagance? Take a look at some of StyleCrave’s latest features on some of the world’s most expensive stuff:

[main pic via flickr]

Behind Bond: Behind The Scenes with Daniel Craig as 007

Joe Wertz — Mon, 11 May 2009 20:04:14 +0000

Whether behind the lens or in front of a screen, Greg Williams has always loved film. On assignment from London’s Sunday Times Magazine in 1997, the British photographer began what he’s become best known for: behind-the-scenes and on-set cinema photography. In 2001, he published “Greg Williams On Set,” a look at the underpinnings of the British film industry and he has since been tasked as a “special photographer” on the sets of more than 120 films including “King Kong,” “The Talented Mr. Ripley” and “Atonement.”

His experience on the “Bourne Ultimatum” shoot likely lent Williams the spy-credentials necessary to be booked to stalk the set of both of the recent Daniel Craig-led Bond epics “Casino Royale” and last year’s “Quantum of Solace.”

Williams’ black-and-white images of Craig are revealing and often cheeky, showing a chiseled and tuxedoed agent being measured and manhandled by grips and lighting techs, training for fight sequences or goofing between shoots.

Craig’s sly smirk provides wonderful contrast to Williams’ stark and masterfully composed photos– and the shots of Bond girl Olga Kurylenko are appropriately gorgeous. [via iconology]

(see the full gallery after the jump)

10 Bottles Of Wine You Can’t Afford To Uncork

Joe Wertz — Fri, 08 May 2009 19:20:04 +0000

No liquid beyond water is more storied than wine. It’s the subject of literature and art, legend and myth. Good batches are part science: climate, grape genetics, yeast growth, water impurities and otherwise. The best wines are an almost indefinable art, an essence, feeling or quality that many try to bottle, but few ever uncork. To celebrate those wines that have become legendary to collectors around the world, here are the 10 most expensive bottles of wine in the world.

10. $24,675 – 1941 Inglenook Cabernet Sauvignon Napa Valley

Citing its dark, deep and “vibrant” flavors, Wine Spectator in 2001 lauded Inglenook’s 1941 cabernet sauvignon, a batch considered by many the best ever produced in Napa Valley.

9. $20,145 – 1934 DRC Romanée Conti

A burgundy with “sensational” aromatics, tasters have been overwhelmed by this wine’s bouquet. Wisps of menthol blend with the scent of “sexy sausage” and the wine’s reportedly perfect pinot texture.

8. $23,929 – 1978 Montrachet Domaine de la Romanée Conti

Among the most expensive bottles of wine ever sold in America, a seven-bottle lot of 1978 Montrachet Domaine was bought at auction for $167,500 — $23,929 per bottle. The chardonnay is bright and lively and said to taste of honey and grilled almonds.

7. $33,781 – 1947 Cheval Blanc

A wine so legendary it’s name has become a subtle joke so pervasive it was uttered by the animated mouse in “Ratatouille,” the 1947 Cheval Blanc is considered a “happy accident of nature,” and is likely the most celebrated wine in the 20th century. The wine has a notoriously thick consistency, smells of leather, coffee and chocolate and tastes of sweet fruit.

6. $38,000 – 1951 Penfolds Grange Hermitage

Only 160 cases of the 1951 Grange were produced by famed Australian winemaker Max Schubert, who wanted to make a red to rival those he observed while studying in Bordeaux. The wine experiment was corked in whatever bottle Schubert could find, simply labeled and is now one of the most prized Australian wines.

5. $43,500 – 1775 Sherry from Massandra Collection

Bottled in the Crimea and prized by Russian Czars, the oldest Western European sherry was sold at a Sotheby’s auction in 2001. The most rare bottles of the sherry bear an imperial seal.

4. $80,000 – 1992 Screaming Eagle

Purple-colored at the rim, the 1992 Screaming Eagle is one of Napa Valley’s most buzzed-about wines. The cabernet is intense, rich and creamy with elegant fruity flavors that linger in the mouth.

3. $114,614 – 1945 Château Mouton-Rothschild

Hailed as a “true miracle” in winemaking, the 1945 Mouton-Rothschild was harvested in ideal climate conditions and perfectly bottled a deep, blackcurrant flavor that’s astoundingly concentrated. An anonymous buyer snatched up a Jeroboam for 114,614 at a Christie’s auction in 1997.

2. $160,000 – Chateau Lafite 1787

The 1787 Chateau Lafite isn’t prized for its flavor. In fact, it’s not even drinkable. But a bottle of the vinegar nevertheless fetched $160,000 in a London auction because of the initials etched into the glass. Th.J. Its rumored owner, once president Thomas Jefferson, is said to have bought the bottle overseas while serving as ambassador to France.

1. $275,000 – Shipwrecked 1907 Heidsieck & Co. Monopole Champagne

Cases of the bubbly were bound for Czar Nicholas II of Russia, but were lost in 1917 after a German submarine in torpedoed its transport during WWI. In 1998. 2,000 bottles were salvaged from the bottom of the Gulf of Finland and now sell for more than a quarter million dollars.

So what do you think, StyleCravers, Diggers, Stumblers… Would you pay that kind of money for a bottle of wine if you could afford it? What kind of special occassion would it take for you to pop the cork in one of these babies? If you do already own one, would you mind pouring us a glass? Let us know your opinions in the comments. It’s why we write these in the first place! Thanks again for reading.

Gumball 3000 Rally Kicks Off from LA to Miami

Joe Wertz — Mon, 04 May 2009 19:00:26 +0000

Gumball Rally 3000 Pictures – On Saturday, more than 120 racing teams chirped out of Los Angeles and barreled for the Nevada desert. Some drivers sharply squealed off the starting line, others revved and roared away as the flag for their interval was dropped. This year’s Gumball 3000 is out of the gate, and teams are making their way from West to East Coast. By the time the storied road rally ends Friday in Miami, the teams and fans will have amassed tales of speed and party-fueled mayhem that rival those surrounding any motorsport. StyleCrave was there for the start– check out our full coverage of the event and exclusive photos after the jump…

On the surface, the 11th-annual Gumball rally is a test of driving skill and endurance. It’s also an awful-yet-awesome film. But, unlike other races, Gumball-styled road rallies are officially designed to test preparation, planning and navigation skills, and courses are chosen so that teams need not break traffic laws to win.

Of course, speeding and law-flaunting auto-antics are among the arsenals unofficially endorsed by many teams and is expected by many fans…

Leaving Las Vegas, the 2009 Gumball 3000 rolls through Santa Fe, Dallas and New Orleans before exhausting itself in Miami. At each stop, crowds will lineup to watch the cavalcade of high-performance, exotic and unusual cars and videos of all-night parties catering to celebrity-studded race teams will trickle out. Among the more known, are race teams filled with the likes of David Hasselhoff, “Jackass” stars Bam Margera and Ryan Dunn, alt-sports icons Tony Hawk, Danny Kass and Dave Mirra and band/musician cars driven by Avenged Sevenfold, Cypress Hill’s DJ Muggs and Lemmy Kilmister from Motörhead.

The race always attracts super-rich European, Russian and Middle Eastern entrants eager to show off their Ferraris, Lamborghinis, Aston Martins and Bugattis and other impossibly expensive wheels, and more than a tank full of scantily clad teams and partygoers. StyleCrave was there for the beginning, take a look at our photo coverage of the Gumball 3000 rally from Santa Monica, California…

Costly Consumption: 10 Incomprehensibly Expensive Cognacs

Joe Wertz — Fri, 01 May 2009 20:30:50 +0000

Most Expensive Cognac: To bear the name “cognac”, this 300-year-old spirit must be produced from a specific blend of grapes, distilled twice in copper stills and then aged for at least two years in French oak casks– and that’s just for the cheap stuff. The liquid is made, quite literally, from the waters of life, and some collectors have dedicated the finances of their own lives to its pursuit. Want to learn a bit more about some of the most expensive cognac ever made? Pull out a snifter, pass the Courvoisier and hit the jump for 10 of the most expensive cognacs ever bottled. [image courtesy: smadness]

10. $5,000 – Courvoisier L’Esprit Decanter

Made from a variety of blends, some which date back to Napoleon I, Courvoisier’s L’Esprit is smoky and rich, with fragrances of cinnamon and dried apricot flowers. The flavor is initially powerful but has a mellow aftertaste.

9. $5,500 – Jenssen Arcana

Aged 98 years in Oak barrels, Jenssen’s Arcana is powerful, “extraordinarily” concentrated and only bottled, sealed and certified upon request.

8. $6,000 – Hine Triomphe Talent De Thomas Hine Crystal Decanter

Each bottle of Hine’s high-end Talent de Thomas is bottled in a Baccarat decanter and placed within an actual cigar humidor made from Maccasar ebony and Honduran Mahogany which helps preserve the spirit’s delicate floral bouquet.

7. $6,400 – Frapin Cuvée 1888

A rare blend of Cognacs from Frapin’s reserves, the Cuvée is bottled beneath a 24-karat gold stopper in a twisty crystal decanter that looks like a prop from a community Shakespeare staging. Flowery flavors combine with sweet spices, honey and toasted vanilla notes.

6. $7,500 – Martell Creation Cognac In Handcarved Baccarat Decanter

Martell’s rare cognac is a “reinterpretation” of a batch first casked at the start of the 19th century. The Grand Extra has a soft flavor that starts as dried fruit and marmalade and fades into notes of walnuts and cedarwood.

5. $7,900 – Le Voyage de Delamain

A blend of cognacs from Delamain, Le Voyage was bottled in 500 crystal decanters, most of which were quickly bought or reserved by eager collectors. It’s rumored to have a complex taste that fades from Russian leather to tobacco, coffee and Eastern spices.

4. $12,900 – Hardy Perfection 140 years Cognac

Supposedly the “World’s oldest known unblended cognac,” this offering from Hardy was limited to 300 Daum crystal decanters. It’s an exceedingly rare cognac that is said to taste of coffee, chocolate and oak.

3. $55,000 – Remy Martin Cognac Black Pearl Louis XIII

When you swish Remy Martin’s deep amber-colored Black Pearl Louis XIII around in your mouth, you’re actually tasting 1,200 40 to 100-year old cognacs blended together. The swill is said to smell of flowers, fruits and spices, it’s flavor a mixture of ginger, cinnamon and Cuban cigars.

2. $200,000 – Hennessy Beaute du Siecle Cognac

Insert a bronze key, turn, and Hennessy’s Baccarat crystal-bottled Beaute du Siecle rises up on a tray. Housed in a melted aluminum and mirrored glass case this mixture is blended from Hennessy’s reserves of 47 to 100-year-old cognacs.

1. $2 million – Henri IV, Cognac Grande Champagne

An elixir mixed since 1776 by the direct descendants of King Henri IV, each batch of Henri IV Dudognon Heritage is aged in a barrel for more than 100 years and capped inside a 24-karat gold-dipped and 6,500 diamond-bejeweled bottle.

- - - - -

Thanks for reading, StyleCravers, Diggers, Stumblers and otherwise. Many thanks to friend of StyleCrave Victor Barrera who both suggested and inspired this feature concept. Let us know when you pop that Louie XIII, Victor…

So what did you think? Would you ever spend that kind of money on a liquor as fine as any of these? Are these prices a bit shocking in light of the financial troubles in the greater world? Let us know your thoughts in the comments, we cherish them. If you enjoyed this article, you’re certain to love our coverage of the Most Expensive Whiskies in the World. Check that out too!

And as a little added bonus, check out one of our favorite Camus Coganc commercials…

The Hunter S. Thompson Kentucky Derby Experience

Mike Payne — Wed, 29 Apr 2009 17:30:54 +0000

The words "Decadent and Depraved" won't appear on the official marketing materials for this Saturday's Kentucky Derby. 39 years ago, however, those were the very words used by iconic journalist Hunter S. Thompson to describe this classic American sporting event. "It's a fantastic scene-- thousands of people fainting, crying, copulating, trampling each other and fighting with broken whiskey bottles..."

In one of his most significant works, Thompson made his own experience the spectacle of the event he was tasked to cover, and it was there that his own unique brand of journalism would be born. Want to experience that for yourself? Here is our guide on how to re-live this year's Kentucky Derby in the spirit of Hunter S. Thompson. Don't forget to pack your whiskey-- or your mace.

The 5 Ingredients of a Hunter S. Thompson Kentucky Derby

In the Spring of 1970, Hunter S. Thompson was hired by a little known British sports magazine to cover the Kentucky Derby with an artist named Ralph Steadman. The Derby was quite familiar to Thompson, having grown up in Louisville, Kentucky and attending the race throughout his youth. His return to Kentucky for the Kentucky Derby in 1970, at the age of 33, marked the beginning of Thompson's "Gonzo Journalism". Thompson made his own experience the focus of the story, not the event itself- a style of journalism which Hunter would champion with books like the popular Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas.

Without further adieu, here are the 5 ingredients needed to experience the famed Kentucky Derby like the greatest outlaw writer that ever lived...

1. The Magic of Playboy

Name dropping can be a subtle, effective art-- especially when you're dropping a name like Playboy. Often in his career, Thompson would flash a playboy photographer badge he had prominently displayed on his attache' bag. By this fake association alone, he would be granted access to places and people most couldn't touch-- not to mention the adoration and favor of John Q. Public. Make sure the clerk at your hotel sees it when you check in. Flash it at the bar when reaching for cash to pay for cover. You'll be amazed at how people respond to that kind of association...

Key Quote: "'Never mention Playboy until you're sure they've seen this thing first,' he said. 'Then, when you see them notice it, that's the time to strike. They'll go belly up every time. This thing is magic, I tell you. Pure magic.'"

2. The Magic of Mace

Thompson, always the weapon lover, couldn't leave home with out some kind of heat. For the now historic Kentucky Derby, Hunter brought with him a can of "chemical billy", a high-powered mace spray that'll decimate the face (and respiratory system) of a would-be threat. Sure, you don't need to be as malicious as Hunter S., but its certainly helpful to have on hand should you have too much of the next item on this list...

Key Quote: "Macing ushers at the narrow gates to the clubhouse inner sanctum, then slipping quickly inside, firing a huge load of Mace into the governor's box, just as the race starts. Or Macing helpless drunks in the clubhouse restroom, for their own good..."

3. Whiskey: Lots and Lots of Whiskey

Among the only things Thompson loves more than weapons is whiskey (although, technically, he was partial to tequila). Having grown up in Kentucky, he was no stranger to the wonders of whiskey, the beast of bourbon. At the Kentucky Derby, Thompson would consume such unhealthy amounts of the stuff that he became the very monster he was on a hunt to find. For your Kentucky Derby experience, you'll need a good stock-- and be sure to bring your drinking shoes. The best Kentucky Derby will be the one you don't remember, but the photographs and notes you've taken along the way re-tell an horrific story.

Key Quote: "We've come down here to see this [terrible] scene: people all pissed out of their minds and vomiting on themselves and all that... and now, you know what? [that's] us..."

4. An Eccentric British Artist

Not only did Hunter S. Thompson have his own demons to worry about at the Derby, he was responsible for a soft-spoken, eccentric British artist. Thompson was paired with Ralph Steadman for the first time at this event, the man who would become the visual counterpart to Thompson's Gonzo Journalism-- the illustrations behind Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas and many of Thompson's later works. The magazine put the two together, knowing little about what bond was to form in Kentucky. If you want to live the Derby in a Gonzo fashion, you'll need someone to capture the insanity from a visual standpoint-- so hire yourself an eccentric British artist. If not, maybe hire a monkey.

Key Quote: "We could always load up on acid and spend the day roaming around the clubhouse grounds with big sketch pads, laughing hysterically at the natives and swilling mint juleps so the cops wouldn't think we're abnormal. Perhaps even make the act pay: set up an easel with a big sign saying, 'Let a Foreign Artist Paint Your Portrait, $10 Each. Do It NOW!'"

5. A Journal of Horrors

As we mentioned above, if you don't have notes to reflect on, did anything really happen? You're going to be consuming more Kentucky whiskey than you've ever drank before, and that liquid does wonders for a sharp memory. You're going to forget most of your drunken debauchery, so you'll want to write it down. After all, can you imagine the life and times of Hunter S. Thompson if he didn't make a record of his experiences? Would Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas, would the Great Shark Hunt, would The Kentucky Derby is Decadent and Depraved ever be written?

Key Quote: "But now, looking at the big red notebook I carried all through that scene, I see more or less what happened. The book itself is somewhat mangled and bent; some of the pages are torn, others are shriveled and stained by what appears to be whiskey, but taken as a whole, with sporadic memory flashes, the notes seem to tell the story..."

- - - - -

Thanks for reading, Diggers, Stumblers, Redditers and otherwise. So, are you planning on taking a trip to the Kentucky Derby? Will you be trying out the Hunter S. Thompson experience? Contact us or leave a comment below, we'd love to know how it goes... and if you are lucky enough to survive. If you'd like to read the entire Thompson account of the Kentucky Derby, check it out at Amazon... Thanks again for reading!

Luxury Grilling: 10 Expensive Grills for the Barbecues of the Rich

Joe Wertz — Wed, 15 Apr 2009 18:30:17 +0000

Man has been burning beast since he first tamed flames, but the relatively simple process of barbecuing has evolved with a fever pitch over time. Today, the art of grilling has been made bigger and better by adding shiny stainless steel, multiple burners, wheels, thermometers, refrigerators and even touch screens. Before you dust off that clamshell Weber, Big Green Egg or try to remember what kind of valve your empty propane tank has, hit the jump to see how rich folk will be getting their grill on this Spring.

#10: KitchenAid KFRU488TSS – $4,200

At 48-inches long, this propane KitchenAid model costs roughly $1,000 per grill-foot. Hot dogs don’t stand a chance against 851 square-inches of cooking space and a 20,000 BTU “high-output infrared sear burner.” Thankfully, this grill has flare-up countermeasures.

#9: GrillCo 60″ SS Gas Grill Mobile Trailer Unit – $6,200

For the price of a used Honda Civic, true barbecue fans can cook on a grill roughly the size of one. Grillco’s 60” mobile gas grill is big enough to roast a polar bear and weighs more than 800 pounds. Nothing says ‘Now you’re cooking!’ like dual brake lights, underslung spring axle and swing tongue jack.

#8: Alfresco LX2 47″ Freestanding gas grill – $6,600

Alfresco’s LX2 47” gas grill has 770 square-inches of cooking space, an integrated rotisserie and halogen lighting to help illuminate the hole your wallet has burned through your pocket.

#7: Lynx L54PSFR-1LP 54” Professional Series – $8,100

With more than 1,500 square-inches of searing space, this 54” Lynx grill has stainless steel grates, a removable smoker box, blue LED-lit gauges and ceramic briquettes that radiate the grill’s 100,000 BTUs evenly.

#6: Crown Verity IG-36 Island Grill – $10,300

Five burners, 759 pounds and 80,000 BTUs, Crown Verity’s IG-36 Island Grill is big enough to grill an actual island. Built around a fridge, this grill is handmade with Brazilian walnut accents and has Quebec granite countertops. Hope you have a classy backyard.

#5: Kalamazoo Outdoor Gourmet 900 Hybrid – $11,500

Cook with wood, gas or charcoal on Kalamazoo’s Outdoor Gourmet 900 Hybrid model. Ceramic-lined drawers help diffuse gas heat or can be swapped with drawers for wood or charcoal cooking. Expert, well-funded grillers can use both the gas burners and a few embers of hardwood for extra smoky flavor.

#4: Fire Magic E1060s-2A1-51 Echelon- $13,800

The “Grandaddy of all gas grills,” the Fire Magic E1060s-2A1-51 Echelon is more outdoor kitchen than barbecue grill. It has a rotisserie backburner, smoke hood and internal wok ring.

#3: Solaire 56″ InfraVection Refrigerated Cart Grill – $14,500

Time, as we all know, is money. Thankfully, the 56” Solaire InfraVection preheats in under three minutes. This unit comes with a built-in refrigerator, dual side burners and 1,027 square-inches of top-notch kebab real estate.

#2: Touchscreen grill – $15,000

This man wanted what no other grill had, so he built it himself. A custom-built smoker/grill, this $15,000 monstrosity has high-quality speakers and amplifiers and a touch screen display perfect for greasy pointer poking.

#1: Talos Outdoor Cooking Suite sold by Frontgate – $35,000

Described by the New York Times as a “sprawling stainless steel temple,” the Talos Outdoor Cooking Suite is probably bigger than your backyard and kitchen combined. Details are somewhat scant, but a Frontgate spokeswoman told the Times the suite boasts a “searing station,” hardwood cutting board, a warming drawer and a bartender station with a built-in sink.

- – - – -

Thanks for reading, StyleCravers, Diggers, Stumblers and Redditers. Would you spend this kind of money on a grill? Do you prefer a handful of charcoal on an old-school Weber? Is grilling more about the meat than the equipment? Let us know your thoughts in the comments. If you enjoyed this one, check out more of our coverage of outrageously expensive stuff that we’d love to get our hands on…

Liquid Gold: the Most Expensive Whiskies in the World
The 16 Highest Paid Models in the World
The 15 Most Expensive Paintings in History
The Valentine’s Day Gift Guide for the Rich
Check out the StyleCrave archives for more…

Style Crave » Editors Picks

10 Watches that Shape the Future of Modern Watchmaking

Parmigiani Fleurier Bugatti 370

GreubelForsey Quadruple Tourbillon

Maître du Temps Chapter One

Linde Werdelin SpidoLite

Armin Strom Blue Chip Skeleton

The MB&F HM2

Pita Barcelona Oceana

Angular Momentum Verre Èglomisé Crystal

Cabestan Winch Tourbillon Vertical

The Urwerk 202

Related Posts

16 of the Hottest European Models

16. Heidi Klum

15. Filippa Hamilton

14. Naomi Campbell

13. Jana Cova

12. Karolina Kurkova

11. Kate Moss

10. Julia Stegner

9. Alessandra Bosco

8. Sandra Scholz

7. Malgosia Bela

6. Ariadne Artiles

5. Julia Serova

4. Doutzen Kroes

3. Daria Werbowy

2. Sasha Pivovarova

1. Lily Donaldson

Related Posts

14 Mens Fashion and Style Icons

Frank Sinatra

Joe Namath

Marlon Brando

James Dean

Brad Pitt

Paul Newman

Johnny Depp

Steve McQueen

Jason Statham

Cary Grant

Robert Redford

Sean Connery

David Beckham

Michael Jordan

Bob Dylan

Related Posts

Time Is Money: 10 Of The World’s Most Expensive Watches

10 – $734,000 – Breguet pocket watch 1907BA/12

9 – $800,000 – Blancpain 1735, Grande Complication

8 – $860,000 – Louis Moinet Magistralis

7 – $1 million – Hublot Black Caviar Bang

6 – $1.1 million – The Chopard Super Ice Cube

5 – $1.3 million – Patek Philippe Sky Moon Tourbillon

4 – $1.5 million – Vacheron Constantin Tour de l’Ile

3 – $4 million – Patek Philippe’s Platinum World Time

2 – $11 million – Patek Phillipe’s Supercomplication

1 – $25 million – 201-carat Chopard

Related Posts

Sea Worthy: 10 of the World’s Most Expensive Mega-Yachts

Related Posts

Royal Resorts: 10 Outrageous Hotels For The Mega-rich

10. $15,500 a night – Imperial Suite, Park Hyatt-Vendôme

Paris, France

9. $16,000 a night – Royal Suite, Four Seasons George V Paris, France

8. $17,500 a night – Royal Armleder Suite, Le Richemond Geneva, Switzerland

7. $18,000 a night – Royal Suite, Burj Al Arab Dubai, United Arab Emirates

6. $18,200 – Ritz-Carlton Suite, The Ritz-Carlton Moscow, Russia

5. $25,000 a night – Bridge Suite at The Atlantis Paradise Island, Bahamas

4. $33,000 a night – Royal Penthouse Suite, President Wilson Hotel Geneva, Switzerland

3. $34,000 a night – Ty Warner Penthouse, Four Seasons New York

2. $40,000 a night – Hugh Hefner Sky Villa, Palms Casino Resort Las Vegas

1. $50,000 a night – Royal Villa at Grand Resort Lagonissi Athens, Greece

Related Posts

Behind Bond: Behind The Scenes with Daniel Craig as 007

Related Posts

10 Bottles Of Wine You Can’t Afford To Uncork

10. $24,675 – 1941 Inglenook Cabernet Sauvignon Napa Valley

9. $20,145 – 1934 DRC Romanée Conti

9. $16,000 a night – Royal Suite, Four Seasons George V
Paris, France

8. $17,500 a night – Royal Armleder Suite, Le Richemond
Geneva, Switzerland

7. $18,000 a night – Royal Suite, Burj Al Arab
Dubai, United Arab Emirates

6. $18,200 – Ritz-Carlton Suite, The Ritz-Carlton
Moscow, Russia

5. $25,000 a night – Bridge Suite at The Atlantis
Paradise Island, Bahamas

4. $33,000 a night – Royal Penthouse Suite, President Wilson Hotel
Geneva, Switzerland

3. $34,000 a night – Ty Warner Penthouse, Four Seasons
New York

2. $40,000 a night – Hugh Hefner Sky Villa, Palms Casino Resort
Las Vegas

1. $50,000 a night – Royal Villa at Grand Resort Lagonissi
Athens, Greece