Even at a time of global recession/depression we can’t get enough of lovely shiny things. Particularly Gold. I guess there’s safety in investing in something tangible and weighty and rather pretty. The value of the real thing has rocketed up since we lost faith in banks.
But I think you’d probably have to be a little loopy to buy Aurumania’s gold bike. Mind you, if you have the 80,000 Euros to invest in this little treasure you’ve probably got the kind of cash to afford its own security detail to guard it while you nip into Tesco for milk. Its rather beautiful though and soooo easy to copy – not in real gold obviously. http://www.aurumania.com
Minimalux is a new brand launched by former Established & Son director Mark Holmes. Combining primary forms with premium materials this first collection comprises desk accessories that are either cuboid or cylinders, engineered in basic brass then coated in either 24c gold or silver. They’re perfectly polished and reassuringly heavy and being aimed at the luxury end of the market their prospective customers could also be described as such. Launching such a luxury range at such a tricky time is certainly brave move. The pieces are meant to have a longevity and aesthetically as they are so simple and beautifully made, why not? As future heirlooms yes they work, but how many people can afford to invest right now? They’re set to retail at £150-£500 and with their design pedigree they’re probably a safe bet. www.minamalux.com
ENO Gold Bar by Arik Levy. Well if you can’t have the real thing you can always have something that looks just like feels just like it (I’m guessing on this one – never touched a real one) and weighs the same. This one is only about 40 quid though. You could use it as a doorstop, paperweight or murder weapon – it is heavy.
Etagere Fioole by Marcel Wanders . A limited edition table centre that’ll set you back oh… 6000 Euros. Yes you could adorn it with elaborate cupcakes but would you want to risk scrubbing off the sticky mess afterwards?