You started UpCircle with your brother back in 2016, at just 22. How did the brand came about?

“We noticed how many coffee grounds were being thrown away by cafés every day and began wondering whether that ‘waste’ could actually have value. Coffee is packed with antioxidants and is fantastic for exfoliating skin, so we started experimenting with turning used coffee grounds into a natural face scrub. This quickly grew into something much bigger as we started collecting coffee grounds from cafés and creating our first product. Our goal was always to prove that sustainability and high performance skincare could go hand in hand. That mindset still drives everything we do today.”

Do you think the beauty industry is finally waking up to their responsibility to be sustainable?

“To a degree. When we started the idea of upcycled beauty ingredients was still very niche. At the time we were explaining the concept constantly, because most people had never heard of by-products being used in skincare. We’re proud to now be upcycling more than 60 by-product ingredients into our range. Now the conversation has shifted significantly. Consumers are far more conscious about waste, sourcing, and environmental impact. That means the beauty industry is starting to respond. But there is still a long way to go. True sustainability requires brands to rethink supply chains, packaging and production. It needs to go deeper than surface level claims.”

How do you source your repurposed ingredients? 

“We look at industries that generate natural by-products and ask whether they might have beneficial properties for skin or hair. For example, we work next door to florists, and noticed their bins filling with unsold roses – so we now upcycle rose petals into our bath salts. We work with countless suppliers in this way, identifying ingredients that would otherwise be discarded. We design for performance first – because sustainability that underperforms will not scale. For example, our Shampoo Crème is made with upcycled pink berry extract from the fragrance industry and delivers three times the washes of a standard liquid shampoo while using 50% less water.”

UpCircle achieved a £18m valuation during a successful crowdfunding campaign – how did that feel?

“It was an incredible experience for us. Seeing people believe in what we were building enough to invest was hugely emotional. We closed the round overfunded in less than 48 hours!”

You also received investment from Dragons’ Den’s Touker Suleyman and Tej Lalvani. Why do you think you succeeded where so many fail?

“We actually never accepted their investment! Yes, we shook hands on air, but after meeting with the Dragons following the show we decided not to proceed. Upcycling was not just a marketing message for us. It was the foundation of the business and something we genuinely believed in.”

With the business thriving, are there any luxuries you allow yourself which you couldn’t before?

“One of the biggest luxuries is simply having a brilliant team around us. In the early days my brother and I were doing everything ourselves, from packing orders to attending trade shows. Now we have an amazing team who bring expertise across different areas of the business. That allows us to focus more on the bigger picture.”

Affordability is also very much part of your brand’s ethos. Why is this so important to UpCircle?

“Sustainable choices should not be reserved for a small group of people. If we want sustainability to become the norm, it has to be accessible. That is why we work hard to keep our products competitively priced while maintaining high quality ingredients and responsible sourcing. We want customers to feel that choosing a more sustainable option is easy rather than a luxury.”

What are your top sellers?

“Our absolute top sellers include our Eye Cream, Face Moisturiser and Peptide Serum. The Peptide Serum is made with upcycled custard apple and blood orange water, and is clinically-proven to improve skin elasticity by 29% in just 14 days, which is HUGE! Customers often come for the sustainability story, but stay because the products genuinely work.”

And finally, what has been your most rewarding moment?

“It’s so hard to choose! Being commissioned to write a book filled with my DIY skincare recipes, being listed in Forbes 30 Under 30, winning £250,000 for my idea for UpCircle’s first ever TV advert – these are all things that I can’t actually believe happened! Seeing how the brand has grown from a small idea into a global business is something I feel very proud of.”

The post Interview: Anna Brightman: Co-Founder of Sustainable Skincare Brand UpCircle appeared first on Best of Living.

Scarcity alone doesn’t make a stone desirable. But when a limited geographic origin combines with saturated colour, extraordinary light performance, and a compelling history, the result is something that can outshine a diamond in every sense. “People assume diamonds are the pinnacle of rarity,” says Blake Asaad, Founder and Creative Director of Goodstone, a leading provider of exquisitely crafted diamond jewellery. “But some of the most extraordinary stones on earth are ones most buyers have never considered. Here are six gemstones that go beyond diamonds in rarity and visual luxury, As well as what gives each one its high-end appeal.” www.goodstoneinc.com

Tanzanite

Found in a stretch of land near Mount Kilimanjaro, tanzanite is estimated to be around 1,000 times rarer than diamond. Its deep violet-blue colour gives it a visual weight that rivals even the finest sapphire. The stone also shifts between blue, violet, and greenish tones depending on the angle of light. “What makes tanzanite so compelling is its geographic exclusivity,” says Blake. “There is literally one place on earth where it exists. That kind of scarcity feels real, and buyers are increasingly attuned to that.”

Alexandrite

Discovered in Russia in 1830, alexandrite appears emerald green in daylight and changes to ruby red under incandescent light. It’s a phenomenon so dramatic it earned the nickname “emerald by day, ruby by night.” Natural specimens of high quality are among the rarest gemstones in the world. “The colour change isn’t subtle,” says Blake. “It’s an extraordinary optical event, and the fact that fine natural specimens are exceptionally scarce only adds to the appeal.”

Paraíba Tourmaline

When Paraíba tourmaline was discovered in Brazil, it caused a stir for one simple reason: nobody had seen a blue quite like it. Powered by trace amounts of copper, its neon blue-green hue appears to glow from within. Despite additional deposits being found in Mozambique and Nigeria, global production remains extremely limited. “The saturation is unlike anything else in the gem world. It reads as extraordinarily luxurious because it simply doesn’t look like anything else.”

Kashmir Sapphire

Mined high in the Himalayas during a brief window in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Kashmir sapphire deposits ran dry in the 1930s. Every specimen in existence today is irreplaceable.  Their colour, a soft, velvety cornflower blue with a luminous inner glow, is the benchmark against which all other sapphires are measured. “Their scarcity is absolute. The mines are gone – what exists is what exists, and auction prices reflect that very clearly.”

Burma Ruby

Myanmar’s unique geological conditions produce rubies with a vivid, almost fluorescent red that gemologists describe as “pigeon blood”, pure, saturated, and internally luminous. At major auction houses, exceptional Burma rubies have consistently achieved record per-carat prices. “The red has an intensity that photographs struggle to capture. It’s a stone that genuinely competes with anything the gem world has to offer.”

Jadeite

Imperial-grade jadeite, with its intense green and high translucency, has been among the world’s most prized stones for thousands of years. There’s a Chinese saying that captures its status perfectly: gold has value, but jade is invaluable. “Top-quality imperial jade has a depth and presence that is genuinely hard to describe. The way the best material seems to hold light inside it is unlike anything else.”

The post Expert Reveals Gems That Outshine Diamonds in Rarity and Looks appeared first on Best of Living.

“At Regent’s, our students work directly with luxury brands through live projects, industry speaker events and our Luxury Lab programme, so we’ve seen for ourselves how the perception of ‘luxury’ is changing — from fashion and design to hospitality and wine. This, in part, has been driven by social media influencers, which has prompted a rise in mid-level ‘luxury’ brands and products being perceived as more attainable and less exclusive. I refer to these products as ‘mass luxury’. This type of luxury is more widely accessible to the average shopper — it is cheaper, readily available and often visibly branded. Those who might not have historically shopped for high-end items choose them because they signpost to others that they are actively participating in the concept of ‘luxury’.

“This contrasts significantly with ‘true luxury’, which remains exclusive and refined. Unlike mass luxury, these products often don’t feature overt branding. Instead, they are quieter and more discreet and rely on craftsmanship and heritage to signal their importance to those ‘in the know’.”

Five questions to ask before buying a luxury product

How many seasons will this last for?

True luxury is built on real quality, instead of trends. This results in pieces that are made with durable materials that can be worn again and again. They are also timeless, meaning they can be used the next season (and the one after that) without looking out of place.

·      Look for items that feel substantial, instead of mass-produced

·      Choose pieces you could wear again the following year

·      Prioritise a few luxury pieces instead of multiple cheaper items

What about how the item has been finished?

Hand-stitching, precise pattern matching and quality hardware are all good indications of the real workmanship that goes into luxury pieces. These details, however small, are what differentiate genuine luxury from cheaper, mass-produced items.

·      Ask whether any part of the item is hand-stitched or hand-finished

·      Inspect seams, stitching, zips and overall structure. Imperfection usually signals mass production

·      Look for brands that explain how the product is made — transparency is a tell-tale sign of real craft

Does the price reflect the substance?

It should never be cheap, but the price tag should always be justified through quality and craftsmanship rather than marketing hype or trend chasing.

·      Ask why the piece costs what it costs — it should reference materials and workmanship

·      Be wary of brands with high prices but factory-level production practices

·      Remember that true luxury often feels expensive but not unduly inflated

Do the brand’s ethics and values align with yours?

For many of us, a brand’s values matter more than ever. We want to support brands that are ethical, sustainable and genuinely making a positive impact.

·      Check whether the brand shares where, how and by whom the products are made — silence may indicate poor labour practices or conditions  

·      Look for quantifiable sustainable commitments and real evidence, rather than meaningless slogans

·      Pay attention to the brand’s stance on social issues, diversity and inclusion

·      Take a look at who the brand partners with — ambassadors, creators and communities likely reflect its own values

What is your experience as a customer?

Consider as much about how you are treated as what you buy. Boutique appointments, personalised advice, champagne service and upscale environments are all indications that the brand you’re buying from is truly exclusive.

·      Note the in-store experience: do staff make you feel welcomed, respected and valued?

·      Look for personalised services like private appointments, styling guidance or concierge support

·      Be cautious of brands whose stores feel intimidating or inconsistent, as true luxury should never make you feel judged

·      Exclusivity should feel curated, not exclusionary: bespoke service should still feel human, rather than performative and fake

A final word of advice

Building a luxury collection of any kind, whether it’s a wardrobe, watches and jewellery or even a wine cellar, is about curating, not simply accumulating. When you choose pieces deliberately rather than impulsively, prioritising quality, craftsmanship and timelessness, you can never go far wrong.

The post How to Tell if a Brand is Really Luxury Before Investing appeared first on Best of Living.

You have been at the forefront of luxury bridal design and evening-wear for over 35 years. Can you tell us a little about how you started out?
“I had been making clothes all my life, but after spending five years in the USA designing active sportswear under my brand Survival Kit, I was ready for a new direction. When I returned to London in 1991, a good friend suggested I look at bridal-wear, which was a market I hadn’t previously considered. Almost immediately, I noticed a gap there. There were very few designers creating beautifully-cut silk gowns with a strong emphasis on style and craftsmanship. That realisation led me to open my first store and launch Caroline Castigliano.”

What is it that particularly draws you to bridal and evening-wear?
“I have always been fascinated by structure, the female form, and how clothing can make a woman look – and, more importantly, feel. I love how fabric, cut, and construction can transform not just how a woman looks, but how she carries herself. What began as a deep respect for craftsmanship quickly became a lifelong pursuit of creating gowns that empower rather than overwhelm. Thirty five years later, that philosophy continues to guide everything I do. Bridal and eveningwear sit at the most emotional moments in a woman’s life. I’ve always been drawn to designing for occasions that carry meaning, pieces that become part of someone’s memory, not just their wardrobe.”

With your signature corsetry and undergarments, your approach to design is almost architectural. Why are the foundations of a dress so important?
“Because beauty begins beneath the surface. Corsetry is the invisible language of couture. It sculpts, supports, and allows a woman to move with confidence. When the foundation is perfect, everything else flows effortlessly.”

As you’re also famed for your clean lines and for timeless style, do you agree that less always more?“Absolutely. Restraint is powerful. When design is distilled to its purest form, every line matters. Clean silhouettes allow craftsmanship, fit, and fabric to speak, and that’s where true luxury lives.”

Do you have a favourite gown from your collections?
“My favourite gown is always the next one. Each design reflects where I am creatively at that moment: my evolution, my curiosity, my response to modern women. Couture should never stand still.”

You have dressed plenty of famous faces. Is there anyone you would love to dress in the future?
“I’ve been very fortunate to dress extraordinary women from many worlds. What excites me most isn’t fame, but individuality, women with a strong sense of self. Those are always the most compelling muses.”

Are there any emerging bridal trends you are particularly excited about?
“I’m drawn to a return to purity: refined silhouettes, thoughtful construction, and subtle drama. Brides today want authenticity. They’re choosing pieces that feel personal, intelligent, and enduring rather than overtly decorative.”

 Do you have any tips for brides searching for their dream dress?
“The most important things is to always trust how a dress makes you feel, not how it photographs. The right gown should give you quiet confidence, and feel like an extension of you, not a costume.”

Your couture gowns continue to be in high demand, season after season. Can you talk us through the design process?
“Couture begins with conversation. We listen, sketch, drape, and refine. Every gown is built by hand, layer by layer, fitting by fitting. It’s an intimate collaboration where precision meets emotion.”

Your embellishment is always stunning and intricate. What is the longest a dress has ever taken you to make?
“Some gowns take over a thousand hours. True craftsmanship cannot be rushed, especially when every stitch, embellishment, and seam is executed by hand with intention.”

And finally, what can we expect to see from you in 2026?
“This year, you will see a continued evolution of modern couture for my gowns.  Refined, confident, and purposeful. Expect sculptural silhouettes, innovative foundations, and a quiet strength that reflects the modern woman. My aim is to always be timeless, never predictable.”

For more information or to book an appointment with Caroline, visit www.carolinecastigliano.com

The post Interview with Leading Bridal Designer Caroline Castigliano  appeared first on Best of Living.

Vintage watches are having a moment in 2026. While oversized statement pieces have dominated previous years, this year’s collectors are drawn to smaller, more delicate vintage timepieces that offer understated elegance. However, these beautiful timepieces require special attention due to their age and delicate construction. “There’s something special about wearing a piece that has its own history and character,” begins Blake. “Modern watches, whilst technically superior, often lack the personality and craftsmanship found in vintage pieces. Each scratch and patina tells a story, making every vintage watch truly one-of-a-kind, allowing wearers to express individuality whilst investing in something with lasting value. And, with the right care, these timepieces can last for generations. Here are my top tips for keeping these delicate pieces in pristine condition.”

Use Gentle Cleaning Methods

Never submerge a vintage watch in water unless you’re certain it’s water-resistant. Instead, use a soft, lint-free, slightly damp cloth to wipe the case and crystal. For metal bracelets, a soft-bristled brush can remove dirt from hard-to-reach areas. “The gentler you are, the better,” Blake advises. “Harsh chemicals or abrasive materials can damage delicate finishes and components that simply can’t be replaced.”

Service Regularly

Vintage watches need professional servicing every three to five years. A qualified watchmaker can clean the movement, replace worn parts, and ensure everything functions properly. “Think of it like servicing a classic car,” Blake explains. “Regular maintenance prevents small issues from becoming expensive problems.”

Store Properly When Not Wearing

Keep your vintage watch in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and magnetic fields. A watch box with soft lining provides ideal protection. “Magnetic fields from electronics can affect the movement’s accuracy,” Blake notes. “Proper storage protects against both physical damage and environmental factors that can cause deterioration.”

Wind Manually with Care

If you have a manual-wind vintage watch, wind it gently and consistently. Stop when you feel resistance to avoid overwinding. “Vintage mechanisms are more delicate than modern ones,” says Blake. “Forcing the crown can damage the mainspring, leading to costly repairs.”

Avoid Extreme Conditions

Keep vintage watches away from extreme temperatures, humidity, and water exposure. Even watches that were once water-resistant may have deteriorated seals. “These watches weren’t designed for the rigours of modern active lifestyles,” Blake warns. “Treat them as the delicate treasures they are, and they’ll reward you with years of reliable service.”

How To Choose the Right Timepiece for You

“The beauty of vintage watches is their imperfections and character, but that doesn’t mean you can neglect their maintenance. Regular care maximises their odds of remaining functional and beautiful for years to come. I always advise collectors to build a relationship with a trusted watchmaker who specialises in vintage pieces. They can provide invaluable guidance specific to your watch’s make and model. With proper attention and care, a vintage watch can become a cherished heirloom, passed down through generations whilst retaining both its charm and value.”

Want to know how the master watchmakers became world-famous horologists? Read our exclusive interview with Roger W Smith.

The post Why Vintage Watches Are Capturing Collectors’ Hearts This Year  appeared first on Best of Living.

Ben, it appears we have caught you at a busy moment.
“Very much so. This year marks the 10-year anniversary of my first illuminated timepiece, the Tempus Collection. That means it’s important to celebrate a decade of experimentation, investment, and creative evolution. We are starting by opening a limited-edition showroom in Mayfair, launching my new Icon Edition. Shortly after I’ll be heading to Paris for Retromobile, exhibiting alongside fellow automotive artist Chris Twitcher.”

You were born in Australia but grew up in Colchester. Was there anything about your childhood that sparked your creativity?
“Probably a desire to rebel, growing up surrounded by history, castles, and cobbled streets. I recall having a strong urge to shape the future – to be the person designing the next castle, something that would stand for 2,000 years. I was obsessed with James Bond: the interiors, gadgets, cars. Everything felt imaginative, aspirational — but also believable. My ambition was to turn that sense of possibility into something real.”

Why is light so central to your designs and spaces?

“Light is the most important element of design. Without it, you see no texture, no colour, no detail, no beauty. It allows me to communicate energy, atmosphere, and story. Artificial light allows you to shape emotion. It also allows you to create calm, intimacy, excitement or drama. The relationship between light and shadow is also crucial – sometimes darkness is just as expressive as illumination. Often people can’t explain why a space feels so good to be in. More often than not, it comes down to how thoughtfully the lighting has been layered. Atmosphere is everything.”

You’ve created installations for everyone from sports stars to business leaders. Is there one piece you are particularly proud of?

“One that still brings out a childish grin is the ‘Bat Cave’. This was a 3,000 square foot basement I created for an art collector beneath a modern home in Holland Park. I designed it as a fully immersive environment for entertaining and displaying art, with installations that invoked a sense of escapism. The centrepiece was a red laser ‘force field’ surrounding the client’s Aston Martin DB4, which descended beneath the house on a motorised driveway. There was a custom bar, a chrome ceiling coffer, an illuminated bubble chair I co-created with graffiti artist INSA, a cinema, pool room, office and snug, with a complex Lutron lighting system tied everything together. It stimulated every sense.”

Do you have a favourite commercial project – and if so, why?

“My first room at the Ice Hotel is still one of my favourites, largely for the romance of it. I originally visited Arctic Sweden while researching somewhere to propose to my wife, and was completely captivated by how light interacts with ice and snow. That experience made me determined to return as a designer. Over time I built a strong relationship with the team there, as it’s an extraordinary pool of talent. Being able to take my wife back and stay in a room I’d designed felt very special. I was told that the Queen of Sweden stayed in that room too.”

Perhaps one of your most famous projects is the iconic iceberg catwalk created for Chanel in 2010. How did this idea come to fruition?
“Ice Hotel Sweden led that project, bringing together their most visionary ice artists alongside Karl Lagerfeld’s team. The original idea was a literal iceberg beneath the Grand Palais roof, but instead we created the illusion of ice using a timber walkway, water, and a special snow-and-ice mix called sneece, shipped from Arctic Sweden in 30 large trucks. We worked around the clock, using a suspended refrigeration system to control melting. It was intense — but incredibly rewarding.”

It must have been exhilarating to be the brain behind the custom vehicle used to follow the Olympic Torch around the UK back in 2012. What do you remember about the experience?
“That year I narrowly avoided using up one of my nine lives after falling from an 80-foot cliff snowboarding. I was actually on a call with the design team while waiting for my friend to be airlifted off the mountain! The brief was to make a tour bus feel aerodynamic and dynamic, more speedboat than bus. Three weeks before launch, the route changed, meaning the vehicle had to fit under low bridges. I had to redesign a folding roof structure that remained safe for people standing on the top deck. Despite the pressure, it worked beautifully.”

Finally, what’s next?
“Let’s just say, I’m not short on ideas. We should catch up again soon!”

The post Interview with Artist and Designer Ben Rousseau appeared first on Best of Living.

1 BOOTS

“A great boot is such a versatile piece to have in your wardrobe. Elevating your daytime look, a knee-high boot can be worn both under a skirt or with your favourite jeans – then transform into evening chic with the right accessories. As an added bonus, it keeps your feet nice and warm in the colder months. The decision is what colour – if you want to go for something more trend-led now’s the time to opt for burgundy.”

2 TURTLENECK

“Consider your basics: a quality turtleneck is the real secret to looking stylish, as well as braving the cold throughout the winter months. Throw it under a blazer, under a shirt, or with your favourite jeans, and you are pretty much ready to go. It’s instant sophistication and style.”

3 BLAZER

“Every outfit in winter needs an extra layer, but not always a chunky coat. What I love about a good blazer is that you can be in leggings and a messy bun – but add this piece and suddenly you’re ‘casually powerful.’ It’s a great transitional staple that you can wear all year round, and something that I don’t see leaving our wardrobes anytime soon.”

4 DENIM

“We all need at least one good pair of jeans that are our true heroes. We can wear them in the day with boots or trainers, but we can also throw on a little heel and go for dinner. Jeans are so important to fit right and feel great in, as they are almost your foundation of every outfit – and you can wear them in so many ways. They’re timeless, versatile and survive all trends.”

5 SCARF

“A winter must for me is an oversized scarf. I don’t like to wear too many layers, as I want my outfit to be chic and polished, so a scarf is the perfect touch that can be removed when you arrive and you can avoid getting too hot. It’s an easy way to inject colour and fun into any outfit, and if you want to dip your toes in the colour of the season this is the perfect place to start.”

The post Winter Fashion Advice From Renowned Celebrity Stylist Ellis Ranson appeared first on Best of Living.

Pure Cashmere Zip Neck Jumper

“Crafted from 100% cashmere, this superior sweater is made from the finest wool, sourced from Inner Mongolia — where goats withstand the coldest conditions. Coming in a zip-neck style for a gently sporty feel, this jumper combines the most luxe fabric with a relaxed edge, so you can dress it down with jeans and a puffer jacket, or up with a shirt and suit trousers for work.” £179: buy here

Cashmere Check Scarf

“A guaranteed winning winter gift — or a treat for yourself — this scarf is crafted from 100% cashmere wool, meaning it’s not only super warm, but also lightweight and comfortable on the skin. Pick from smart checks, herringbone patterns or solid colours like seasonal maroon or every man’s favourite navy — it’ll go with whatever coat or jacket you team it with.” £89.95; buy here.

Italian Velvet Jacket

“Steal the show — whatever the event — in this jacket woven in Italy’s Pontoglio Mill. The definition of artisanal craftsmanship and fine tailoring, it’s crafted from 100% cotton, is deceptively comfortable to wear and super-soft to the touch. Pick from single and double-breasted styes, and shades like rich chocolate, versatile navy, striking indigo and timeless black.” £279; buy here.

Non-Iron Stretch Floral Print Shirt

“Made from 100% cotton with a natural stretch, this floral print shirt features non-iron tech for a smooth finish all night. High impact as well as being low maintenance, choose from a classic, slim or extra slim fit. Not a fan of florals? There’s a host of solid colours, geometric prints and subtle paisley patterns to pick from, too.” £74.95; buy here.

3-in-1 Rain Mac

“Coming with a detachable gilet for extra warmth, wear this rain mac all together, remove the gilet when the temperature gets a little milder, or wear the gilet solo as an easy, lightweight layer. The simple, elegant design can be worn over suits and jeans alike — and, no matter what you’re wearing underneath, you’ll stay dry and presentable.” £249; buy here.

The post Winter Fashion To Choose From For the Stylish Gentleman appeared first on Best of Living.

How did your career begin?

“I enrolled at college at 16 to study horology, a three-year course designed to turn me into a watch and clock repairer. During my second year, a man called George Daniels came to visit. I had no idea who he was, but by the end I understood this was an extraordinary man living an extraordinary life. That meeting was life-changing experience, and from that moment on I knew I wanted to make a handmade watch.”

What happened next?

“After college, I wrote to ask if George would take me on as an apprentice. He replied saying he always worked alone, but did offer to meet to discuss my ambitions. The meeting ended with George saying, ‘If you want to make a watch, it is only you who can do it. I cannot teach you. And it is such a huge undertaking that if you have the drive to do it, you will succeed’.”

But he wasn’t impressed with your first attempt.

“I completed it in 18 months, and George commented it looked too handmade — and that a fine handmade watch should look as though it has been created, not simply handmade. It was the wake-up call I needed, and I began work on my second, which took five and a half years to create.”

Why so long?

“I realised I had to focus on each individual skill required to create it completely handmade — all 34. When the second watch was finished, George said ‘congratulations — you’re now a watchmaker,” and it was this moment that led to my invitation to work full-time with him in his workshop.”

Before dedicating yourself to hand-crafting movements, was there an industrially-produced timepiece you coveted?

“I’ve always been impressed by Omega watches from the 1950s and 60s. In my early days as a watch repairer, if I received an Omega I knew it would be an easy day. The mechanisms were so well designed and made to such a high standard that I could strip them, clean them, reassemble them, and be confident the watch would keep time just as well as the day it left the factory.”

How do you articulate the intangible value — the ‘soul’ — that a wholly hand-created watch possesses?

“Watches are incredibly personal pieces. When someone engages with me we begin a journey, defining the specification and dedicating the entire workshop to the creation of that watch. Every one of the 20 pieces that leaves each year carries a part of my soul. What my clients are buying is that experience, that knowledge, and that devotion to creating a handmade watch.”

Moving on to the Series 6. How does it demonstrate how your work has evolved?

“The Series 6 concept began while I was working on the Series 4, which features a date dial at its periphery — with the traditional method of displaying it a hand radiating from the centre. The problem was the hand would sit over key information on the dial for several days. This was unacceptable to me, as I’ve always strived to create a legible, open dial. That challenge led to the idea of the travelling date aperture — and as the industry has now adopted the concept, I thought it fitting to celebrate its acceptance by creating a very simple watch with a real focus on the aperture itself.”

What has been your most challenging Series to date?

“The Series 4, largely because of the travelling date aperture and the triple-calendar complication, which is, incidentally, instantaneous. Creating a mechanism like this demands a tremendous amount of effort, particularly when everything must occur in a split second. It becomes a delicate balancing act — refining the design of each component while perfecting the spring tensions throughout the entire mechanism.”

Is it true you’ve closed your books?

“My list is open to owners of an RW Smith or a Daniel’s, but at times we do allow new customers to join our waiting list: but there’s a careful process involved. Our team consists of 15, and we produce just 20 pieces per year. We could increase production, but doing so would come at the cost of quality — and as a watchmaker, I couldn’t allow that.”

How many watches have you created?

Over 24 years, we have produced around 185 pieces. I recall a conversation with an existing client who visited looking to add another piece to his collection. He showed me his Series 2, which he’d received a few years earlier, and was astonished to learn it was one of only 12 pieces made since the introduction of my Mark 2 two-movement in 2019. These are incredibly rare!”

What role do you believe your workshop plays to secure the future of British horology?

“It is very difficult for us to make a real impact because our production is incredibly low. What we can do is demonstrate what is possible. My work with the Alliance of British Watch and Clock Makers has been an eye-opening experience, and I am encouraged to see a rebirth of British watchmaking. We are still a long way from factories across Britain producing watch components, but you must start somewhere. If my work can, in any way, help support that growth, then I believe that can only be a good thing.”

What would you say to an aspiring watchmaker looking to seek a career in horology?

It’s a fascinating world and there are many different paths to take. While bench work is at the heart of the industry, there are numerous supporting roles that contribute to the growth of watchmaking in other ways. From technical development and quality control, to sales, marketing, and education, the industry offers a diverse range of ways to engage and thrive.”

So is there anything you can reveal about the Series 7?

“While there will be another watch in the future, for now I need to stay tight-lipped. We’re also extremely excited about 2026 as it marks the 25th anniversary of RWS; the centenary of George Daniels’ birth. This dual milestone demands a tribute that will not only honour the legacy but celebrates the evolution of British mechanical watchmaking. Watch this space.”

The post Interview: Renowned Independent British watchmaker Roger W Smith appeared first on Best of Living.

You must have come across some spectacular jewellery. What’s your most memorable?

“We come into contact with some beautiful jewellery, from Victorian antiques to modern day masterpieces, which never fails to excite me. However, I was lucky enough to appraise some exquisite items belonging to the late and wonderful Elizabeth Taylor. This included a breathtaking sapphire and diamond necklace and earring set, mounted in platinum and beautifully proportioned.”

With so many covetable items in your stores; do you have a favourite piece you would most like to own?

“One piece that came into our hands was a Bvlgari vintage diamond set Parentesi necklace. I’ve loved Bvlgari ever since I watched Casino back in the Nineties, when Sharon Stone’s character was presented with a large box full of the most beautiful gem-set Bvlgari jewellery. This was the first time I’d ever seen the necklace, so I was excited to have one in store to appraise. Sadly, I didn’t get to keep it for myself as it sold very quickly. They are so rare.”

When investing in high-end jewellery, what do you believe should be considered first?

“Look for a timeless classic to add to your collection, like the Cartier Love Bracelet. First released in 1969 by designer Aldo Cipullo, it was inspired by the idea of everlasting love and the symbolic locking of two people together. Today the Cartier Love Bracelet is still one of the most desired jewellery pieces and is available in multiple variations depending on your budget.” 

What other names are no-fail investments?

“You will always reap rewards with Italian powerhouse, Bvlgari, especially collections like the Serpenti or B.Zero1. The B.Zero1 design pays homage to the Colosseum in Rome and again comes in many variations to choose from. Classics like these will always be popular, so they are a great investment — and the quality is undeniable. These pieces are designed to last.”

Is keeping packaging important?

“It is the most important thing to remember when you purchase a high-end piece, so keep everything that comes with your jewellery. So many people discard packaging such as the box, bag and ribbon — even the receipt — but it’s worth remembering that should you ever wish to sell it in the future, the packaging and receipt means you will get a better return.”

Do you recommend perusing pre-loved markets?

“Yes; always check the pre-loved market first. Some of the Cartier Love Bracelet models increased in price by five to eight percent in September 2025 — and this was the second price increase of the year. This is largely due to the price of gold, which is predicted to go even higher. When buying pre-loved go to a reputable company like ours, where vigorous checks are made to ensure authenticity. Also, consider what comes with the piece, like a certificate of authenticity or an original purchase receipt. You can always check hallmarks and makers’ marks yourself by investing in a jeweller’s loupe.”

Finally, before investing, do you have a golden rule to stick to?

“If something seems too good to be true, it likely is. Sadly, we see many customers duped into buying something for a fraction of the market value, only to discover the piece isn’t genuine. You can always check to see how the item you are interested in is listed elsewhere. If you see a Van Cleef vintage Alhambra bracelet up for sale on the pre-loved market for £1,200, that would be an amazing deal. But if other places have them listed between £3,000 and £4,000, this should be a red flag.”

Disclaimer: This article is for editorial purposes only and should not be regarded as financial advice. Prices and values may fluctuate, and independent professional advice is recommended before making investment decisions.

The post Here’s How To Curate a Classic and Timeless Fine Jewellery Collection appeared first on Best of Living.