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RAPAPORT... Organizers of the seventeenth annual Las Vegas Antique Jewelry & Watch Show, which took place on May 31 through June 3, 2012, at The Paris Hotel, reported a 5 percent year on year increase in attendees. The trade-only even hosted 400 exhibitors from 19 different countries. "Every year we are overwhelmed by the success of this show that exposes rare and unique antique jewelry and watch collections from all over the world," said Andrea Canady, the fair's director. "It's apparent by the attendance numbers that this show continues to shine and be a frontrunner in showcasing the latest trends affecting the antique, estate and vintage jewelry community." Exhibiting items throughout the showroom floor unveiled the latest trends including fancy colored diamonds, vintage watches, signed estate jewelry, diamonds and necklaces from various time periods. One of the most sought-after trends this year, according to organizers, were oversized vintage platinum rings, coral jewelry and reptile inspired pieces, such as gold snake necklaces and pendants. "This year we saw an increase in not just vintage platinum engagement rings, but rings of all kinds, especially cocktail sized rings," said Kurt Rothner, the owner of Excalibur Jewelry. "We sold all across the board including Cartier and were very pleased with the show. We even came out with several new customers, which is always a highlight." Jorge Chamizo, a manager at McTeigue, said, ''We felt that U.S. retailers were back at the buying table and sold a number of pieces in America. We also saw an increase in the number of Asians at the show, which is always nice to see their interest in traveling to buy to the U.S. This was definitely one of the most successful shows we have ever done."
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