Cautious Optimism Fills Baselworld Buoyed by Asian Demand for Luxury

By William George Shuster
Special Correspondent

A fractured arm kept me from attending Baselworld this year. Fortunately, I know some of the best writers and experts in the jewelry and watch industry. One of those folks is William George Shuster who has kindly agreed to take time from his busy schedule to write a few stories from the tradeshow. Below is his first report from the event.

BASEL,

An Early Start for Asia’s Fashion Jewelry & Accessories Fair

Asia’s Fashion Jewelry & Accessories Fair (3FJ) will be held February 18 – 21, at Halls 3, 6 and 8 of the AsiaWorld-Expo, Hong Kong. It is being held several weeks earlier than its usual March run to suit the international trade-event calendar, allowing buyers an early view of the trends for autumn and winter of 2012.    More than 370 exhibitors will participate, up 14 percent from last year.

China International Gold, Jewellery & Gem Fair – Shenzhen

The China International Gold, Jewelry & Gem Fair – Shenzhen, Southern China’s prime jewelry event, marks its 10th anniversary. This trade-show features over 350 exhibitors, including wholesale jewelry suppliers and manufacturers, from more than 14 countries including China, French Polynesia, Hong Kong, India, Japan, Korea, Macau, Poland, Russian Federation, Sri Lanka, Taiwan, Thailand, Turkey

Joe Torre to Speak About Winning at Centurion

Former New York Yankees manager Joe Torre will provide an inside look at what it took to become one of the best managers in baseball history in an opening keynote address at the Centurion luxury jewelry tradeshow.

Torre’s session, called “Ground Rules for Winners,” draws upon his life experiences in professional baseball. His presentation will be held January 29 at 8 a.m.

"My baseball career

Milla Jovovich is the Face of Jacob & Co.

Milla Jovovich and Jacob Arabo


BASEL, Switzerland – Jacob & Co. announced that the new face of its global advertising campaign is actress and model, Milla Jovovich. The unveiling was held March 27 during a party at the Jacob & Co. booth during Baselworld, the world’s largest watch and jewelry tradeshow.
I was unable to attend the event but earlier did get a tour of the new high-carat,