Christie’s Magnificent Jewels Preview, HSNY’s 160th Anniversary Auction, Results From the Amelia Sale & More

Over the past week, the world of high living has produced its usual mix of spectacle and substance, from storied hotels reopening their doors to auctions where a single digit can command millions. Here’s what caught our attention this week.

Christie’s Previews Magnificent Jewels Geneva Auction

Christie’s has begun previewing highlights from its upcoming Magnificent Jewels sale in Geneva, one of the most closely watched jewelry auctions of the year. Early standouts include exceptional Golconda diamonds, Burmese rubies, and signed vintage pieces from Cartier and Van Cleef & Arpels.

Geneva remains the epicenter of high-jewelry auctions, where collectors compete fiercely for stones with provenance, rarity, and size, often pushing prices comfortably into eight-figure territory.

See the full catalogue here.

The Historic Huntington Hotel Reopens in San Francisco

After a years-long silence atop Nob Hill, San Francisco’s storied Huntington Hotel has reopened its doors. First built in 1924 and long considered one of the city’s most discreet grand dames, the landmark property recently emerged from a comprehensive renovation that refreshed guest rooms while preserving its old-world character.

The reopening restores a piece of San Francisco hospitality history, along with the beloved Big 4 Restaurant, where politicians, financiers, and visiting dignitaries once plotted their next moves over martinis.

Book your stay here.

Dubai’s “Most Noble Number” Charity Auction Raises Millions

Dubai has a way of turning even license plates into luxuryLuxuryA lifestyle defined by exceptional quality, craftsmanship, exclusivity, and sophistication, encompassing the finest products, services, and experiences that represent the highest standards of refinement and excellence.Go to Luxury Glossary collectibles. At the emirate’s annual “Most Noble Number” charity auction, a selection of ultra-rare vehicle plate numbers and premium mobile numbers drew fierce bidding, raising more than AED 91 million (approximately Php 1.4 billion) in a single evening.

The star lot, the coveted plate number DD5, fetched roughly AED 35 million (approximately Php 566 million), while other coveted digits climbed comfortably into seven-figure territory. The proceeds support the UAE’s Ramadan charitable initiatives.

Horological Society of New York Reveals Lots for 160th Anniversary Auction

The Horological Society of New York is marking its 160th anniversary with a charity auction that reads like a love letter to watchmaking. Set to take place during the society’s gala at The Plaza Hotel, the sale includes rare timepieces, bespoke watchmaking experiences, and collector-grade curiosities donated by leading brands.

Among the highlights are exclusive watches and one-of-a-kind horological experiences designed specifically for the event. As the oldest watchmaking guild in the United States, HSNY has spent more than a century championing education and craftsmanship, and this anniversary auction ensures the next generation of watchmakers keeps ticking.

See the full catalogue here.

Broad Arrow Auctions Drives Strong Results at Amelia Car Week

Collector cars once again proved their enduring appeal at Broad Arrow Auctions’ Amelia sale, where a carefully curated lineup of blue-chip machines brought in more than $111 million (approximately Php 6.59 billion). Among the headline moments was a 1995 Ferrari F50, which thundered past expectations to sell for over $5 million (approximately Php 297 million), while a pristine Ford GT and several rare Porsche models also commanded strong bids.

The full results here.