Watches

Hermès adds status to evening wear with a more brilliant Cape Cod model, called the Grand Soir version. This precious jeweled watch has diamond-studded bezels crafted in 18k white or yellow gold with a mother-of-pearl dial under a sapphire crystal. The dressed-up feminine model, designed for formal occasions, abandons the leather strap in favor of a chain bracelet with folding clasp. Retail: $14,500. Hermès Watch Co., 111 Maiden Lane, Suite 420, San Francisco, CA 94108; (415) 765-5900.

Longines once manufactured a watch designed by famous aviator Charles Lindbergh. Now it pays tribute to another hero with the classic Avigation watch collection in honor of naval commander Peter Van Horn Weems, who coined the term. This series introduces the Avigation Watch and the Avigation Chronograph, both aviator-style timepieces featuring 42-hour power reserve, polished stainless steel case, domed mineral crystal, transparent back, water resistance to 30 meters and black dials with luminous Arabic numerals, available on steel bracelet or black strap. The chronograph has 60-second and 30-minute timers. Suggested retail: $1,195-$1,995. Longines, 1200 Harbor Blvd., Weehawken, NJ 07087; (201) 271-1400.

Armitron’s Durasteel watches live up to their powerful name with hypoallergenic, non-corrosive and scratch-resistant timepieces made of, naturally, durable stainless steel. Backed by a lifetime guarantee, this bold new generation of high-tech Durasteel watches features colored dials, thick leather straps and stainless steel cases or bracelets. The line showcases alarm-chronographs and water resistance from 100 to 300 feet. Suggested retail: $40-$80. E. Gluck Corp., 29-10 Thomson Ave., Long Island City, NY 11101; (718) 784-0700.

Oris, sponsor of the London Jazz Festival, jazzes up its watch collection with a limited edition timepiece. The Jazz Watch is an automatic mechanical with date, sassy Arabic numerals and a seconds subdial. It also has a familiar Oris feature, a tonneau-shaped case framing a black dial. Topping it off is the signature of jazz pianist McCoy Tyner on the caseback. This series is limited to 21 watches in the United States. Retail: $1,550. Oris USA, 2 Skyline Dr., Hawthorne, NY 10532; (914) 347-6747.

Business services

Reid Psychological Systems® has developed a prescreening test called the Reid Safety Scale™ to identify applicants who demonstrate adherence to safety policies and a sense of control in the work environment. The test is designed to lower companies’ worker compensation claims. Reid Psychological Systems, 153 W. Ohio St., Chicago, IL 60610; (800) 922-7343 or (312) 938-9200, fax (312) 294-0140.

Increase name recognition with Arch Crown’s custom-molded relief tags, ideal for watches, special jewelry collections and limited editions. Molded string styles are available with either knotted or sunken cords. For free samples and catalog, contact Arch Crown, Inc. 177 Main St., West Orange, NJ 07052; (973) 731-6300, fax (973) 731-2228; ac@archcrown.com, www.archcrown.com.

HREasy Inc. has added a touch-screen option to its PC-based, automated job applicant screening system. The system is designed for on-site, pre-interview screening of job candidates. An interactive voice response system guides applicants through customized “yes” and “no” questions in their choice of language. Applicants who pass the first tier of questions move on to job-related psychological assessment questions, during which response time is measured. HREasy Inc., 6407 Idlewild Rd., Charlotte, NC 28212; (800) 798-2536.

Visual Technology offers quick turnaround and high quality with the latest in digital photography and photo editing services. After a photograph is shot, it appears on the screen almost instantaneously, ready for editing; the process does not rely on film, photo labs, delivery or scanning services, thus saving time and money. Visual Technology, 1035 Temple Rd., Pottstown, PA 19465-7538; (610) 970-1577, fax (610) 970-1614; irisleaf@ix.netcom.com.

BENCH & LAB

Royal Findings introduces its Fusion Omega Earclip finding. The joint, omega wires and rivet wires are available in sterling silver, 18k and 14k yellow gold. The joint, sold separately, works with three sizes of omega wires. Royal Findings, Inc., P.O. Box 92, Chartley, MA 02712; (800) 343-3343, fax (800) 458-7423.

Rio Grande offers its one-piece pinback that can double as a pendant. Each is pre-assembled with a stem, joint and catch, and rabbit ear bail. Available in yellow or white finish and in .75-, 1-, 1.25- and 1.5-in. lengths. Rio Grande Gems & Findings, 7500 Bluewater Rd. NW, Albuquerque, NM 87121-1962; (800) 545-6566, fax (800) 645-4859, e-mail: bluegem@riogrande.com, website: www.riogrande.com.

The M.S. Company manufactures a wide range of chains, including heavy cables, double cables, curbs, fancy ropes and large Figaros. It can provide quick delivery of foot chain or cut-to-length assembled neckchains with a variety of findings. M.S. Co. Inc., 61 School St., Attleboro, MA 02703; (800) 675-4657, fax (508) 222-6449, e-mail: msco@tiac.net.

Interlab Robotics Inc. (IRI) now offers its computer-controlled engraving systems through its own authorized dealers and agents. Previously, Meistergram of Greensboro, N.C., had exclusive rights to sell Interlab’s products in the TDMA (what’s this?) and Awards retail markets. IRI will continue to honor customers’ product warranties through Meistergram. Post warranty services will be offered through authorized dealers or the factory. Interlab Robotics Inc., 1280 Spacepark Way, Mountain View, CA 94043; (650) 965-7767, fax (650) 965-8621.

Orogold’s T10/SBE 10-Pass Wire Drawing Machine features a patented clutch, two speeds, foot control, CE controls, protective guards, and a tungsten carbide driving coiler. Wire can be coiled on the carbide coiler to form a loose coil or spooled on an electronic spooler for strand annealing operations. The unit is equipped with forced lubrication on the wire-drawing plate and the coiler with a decantation and recirculation system. Gold International Machinery Corp., Thurston & Newell St., P.O. Box 998, Pawtucket, RI 02862-0998; (800) 619-GOLD, fax (401) 728-5770, e-mail: goldintl@ids.net.

Grobet USA, a manufacturer of tools and equipment, released its 288-page catalog of jewelers’ tools, supplies and equipment. More than 1,000 full-color photographs are featured. The catalog is available from local jewelry tool dealers or by calling (800) 847-4188. Grobet USA, 750 Washington Ave., Carlstadt, NJ 07072; (800) 962-7242 or (201) 939-6700, fax (201) 939-5067.

Master Bond developed a two-component epoxy adhesive/sealant, coating and potting compound called EP37-3FLFAO. The system has a one-to-one mix by weight or volume. It cures at room temperature or more rapidly at elevated temperatures, and offers high thermal conductivity and a high degree of flexibility. The company also offers a newly revised application selector guide on no-mix one-component epoxy adhesives. More than 30 compounds are listed and described, with information on color, viscosity, gel time, cure time, service temperature range and storage stability of each grade. Master Bond Inc., 154 Hobart Street, Hackensack, NJ 07601; (201) 343-8983, fax (201) 343-2132.

The FCC121 Medium Frequency Caster from Gold International Machinery Corp. uses a microprocessor system to control furnace functions and stores up to 99 programs in memory. The machine provides a data printout for every 10 cm of product produced. Argon gas protects the metal throughout the melting period. Standard features include a crucible capacity of 10 kg of 18k gold or 6.2 kg of .925 silver; a 10kw power supply; a wire capacity of 6-35mm or three pieces of 6-10mm. simultaneously; a plate capacity 60mm wide by 5mm thick; and a tubing capacity of 2 mm diameter by 1.5mm wall (minimum) to 30mm diameter by 5mm wall (maximum). Gold International Machinery Corp., Thurston & Newell St., P.O. Box 998, Pawtucket, RI 02862-0998; (800) 619-GOLD, fax (401) 728-5770, e-mail: goldintl@ids.net.

Gold International Machinery carries a full line of C.E.I.A. Medium-Frequency Induction Melting Machines. They feature stainless steel construction; electronic power circuits that allow high conversion efficiency; low cooling water consumption; continuously variable power that allows the operator to choose melting times and temperature; microprocessor controls; and a voice-synthesized checking system. The company offers both manual pour type crucibles and tilt-type machines with capacities ranging from one kilo to over 100 kilos of 24k gold. Gold International Machinery Corp., Thurston & Newell St., P.O. Box 998, Pawtucket, RI 02862-0998; (800) 619-GOLD, fax (401) 728-5770, e-mail: goldintl@ids.net, website: www.goldmach.com.

Hazel Company offers a 36-page catalog featuring 10k and 14k gold charm bracelets and an expanded selection of Roman and Grecian earrings, pendants and bracelets. Hazel Mfg. Co., 1351 39 St., Brooklyn, NY 11218-3689; (800) 876-4653, fax (718) 436-0277.

The ’97-’98 edition of the Designer Collection Catalog from Adwar Casting is now available. The 24-page book introduces an exclusive platinum series and features a full range of jewelry styles and designs, all available in 14k and 18k gold and platinum. Adwar Casting Co. Ltd., 120 S. Long Beach Rd., Rockville Centre, NY 11570; (800) 255-7755 or (516) 678-7755, fax (516) 678-7756.

Stuller Settings presents its new religious jewelry catalog. The 72-page color book features a full range of items including crosses, Stars of David, medals, prayer rings and rosaries, as well as an expanded gold-filled and sterling section. Stuller Settings Inc., P.O. Box 87777, Lafayette, LA 70598-7777; (800) 877-7777.

Overnight Mountings’ 200-page catalog features 4,000 styles of jewelry available to small retailers by overnight delivery. Semi-finished and polished 14k gold mountings are in stock for immediate shipping. Special orders of 18k, 10k or 14k white, rose and green gold as well as platinum are available in six to 10 business days. Overnight Mountings, 2121 44 Dr., Long Island City, NY 11101; (888)731-1111.

Packaging & Display

Presentation Box & Display added “Express Boxes” to its Castle Collection. The boxes, which can be custom imprinted with company names or logos, have the look of white leather and are competitively priced. For a sample or catalog, contact Presentation Box & Display, P.O. Box 427, Pawtucket, R.I. 02862-0427; (800) 556-7390.

The halogen “clamp on” light fixtures by USA Light and Electric are lightweight and designed for portable exhibits. Using a 50-watt MR-16 lamp, the fixtures give 28 inches of coverage. Prices range from $65 to $75. USA Light and Electric, P.O. Box 296, Patton, CA 92369; (800) 854-8794, fax (800) 851-7651.

Jewel Case offers quick delivery and small quantities for fabric and Leatherette packaging. Available in various colors and a variety of sizes. Jewel Case, 300 Niantic Avenue, Providence, RI 02907; (800) 441-4447.

Kramp has developed paperboard packaging for luxury consumer goods, including unique folding cartons for perfume, cosmetics, jewelry, confectionery, and liquor products. Kramp USA Inc., Canbury Plaza, 555 Route 18 South, Ste. 181, East Brunswick, NJ 08816-3713; (732) 296-1411 or fax (732) 296-1355.

Metallic gift boxes with matching bags are available in silver, gold and copper kraft, as well as in satin finishes of those same colors. Made of 100% recycled materials; the finishes can be hot stamped with store name. For free full-color catalog, contact Gift Box Corporation of America, 225 Fifth Ave., New York, N.Y. 10010; (800) GIFT BOX, fax (212) 684-5117.

This silver-plated ring minder is 1 5/8” in height with a layer of blue velvet covering the ring mount. Suggested retail: $25. Towle Silversmiths, 144 Addison St., East Boston, Mass. 02128; (617) 568-1300.

COMPUTERS

MobiNetix Systems Inc. has developed the Secure Record System, computer software to eliminate multiple paper receipts and store confidential transaction information securely. Customers sign their names on transaction terminals instead of paper receipts. The SRS then encrypts the signature, bundles it with transaction information and sends it to the retailer’s database server to be stored securely. MobiNetix Systems, 500 Oakmead Parkway, Sunnyvale, CA 94086-4022; (408) 524-4200, fax (408) 524-4299.

GIFTWARE

Crystal World is offering the Cruise Ship designed by artist Rudy Nakai. This cruise ship comes in three different sizes: 7” long, suggested retail at $1,150; 6” long, suggested retail at $550; and 2 3/8” long, suggested retail at $100. Crystal World, 3 Borinski Drive, Lincoln Park, NJ 07035; (800) 445-4251 or fax (973) 633-0102.

Heavenly Hideaway is the first issue in the Gardens of Innocence. This plate is 8 1/2” in diameter, has a wide 22k gold scalloped border and is accompanied by a certificate of authenticity. The collection is limited to a period of 95 firing days. Suggested retail is $32.50. Reco International Corp., 138-150 Haven Ave., Port Washington, NY 11050; (800) 221-5356 or (516) 767-2400.

Colibri’s 925 Collection of writing instruments features ball-point pens in sterling silver or sterling with gold accents. The European-styled series is manufactured in Germany. Two-tone designs have a brass dome and point. Pen clip and mid-ring are stainless steel. Suggested retail: from $59.95. Colibri, 100 Niantic Ave., Providence, RI 02907; (800) 556-7354.

The Looney Tunes Spotlight Collection is rendered in porcelain for the first time by Goebel. Each Spotlight Collection is based on a Looney Tunes or Merrie Melodies Classic Cartoon. Each figurine comes packed with a certificate of authenticity signed by Goebel and Warner Bros. representatives and celcards with scenes of the animation art from which figurines were created. Suggested retail begins at $70. Goebel North America, 31 North, Pennington, NJ 08534; (609) 730-8400.

Lady Orbite propelling pencils and ballpoint pens are all curves, with pink, green, ivory or black lacquer accented with gold or palladium. They’re from the new L’Original de Robergé collection. Each style is made in Switzerland and engraved with a reference number. Manufacture des Montres Robergé S.A., 26, Route de France, CH 1348 Le Brassus, Suisse; 0041 (21) 845-12-12, fax 0041 (21) 854-75-71.

Andrea by Sadek’s Black and Gold Collection includes a full range of coordinating pieces in hand-painted black-and-gold porcelain, all-gold glazed porcelain and brass. Shown are a 10” hexagonal vase, 15” ginger jar and 10” round bowl, as well as a 6” pedestal brass urn. Also available are a variety of black-and-gold porcelain pieces and several porcelain items glazed entirely in antique gold. Suggested retail: $25-$94. Sadek, 19 E. 26 St., New York, NY 10010; (212) 679-8121.

Snow Bearies collectible bear ornaments and accessories are new by Kurt S. Adler, Inc. The collection’s slogan is “Cold Noses, Warm Hearts” and features the following pieces: Hugging Peace Snow Bearies measures 5 1/4 inches with a suggested retail price of $20, Dancing Snow Bearies is a 3 inch ornament with a suggested retail price of $9, Star Fishing Snow Bearie on a Ball and Snow Bearie on a Bell are both 5 1/2 inch ornaments with a suggested retail price of $12, Icicle Snow Bearie is a 7 1/4 inch ornament with a suggested retail price of $9, Snow Bearie in a Glass Ball is 3 3/4 inch ornament with a suggested retail price of $11, and Snow Bearie ornaments and figurines dancing and playing has a suggested retail price range of $5.50 to $29. Kurt S. Adler, 1107 Broadway, New York, NY 10010-2872; (212) 924-0900.