Background checks are an essential part of the hiring process for both private companies and government organizations. These are done to verify the information of the candidate and are usually conducted as the last stage of the hiring process. Image by Michael Burrows / Pexels Many think criminal background checks and background checks are interchangeable, but that isn't true. Background checks include various components, and a criminal records check is a part of it. A background check gathers more information beyond criminal records to verify who the candidate is and their information. This article will list different types of background checks and provide a brief explanation of what each of them includes. Different Types Of Background Checks Below, you'll find six of the background check types. However, note that what your background check consists of may vary depending on your authorization and legal regulations. Criminal Records Criminal records are one of the most common types of background checks. Since employers will want to know if the person they're hiring has a criminal history, it's also one of the most extensive. Due to the weight criminal records carry for the hiring process, it will include everything available about the individual's criminal history from federal, state, and local sources. However, some charges and offenses may not appear because state regulations limit how far background check agencies can investigate. There are also similar federal regulations, but it doesn't cover criminal records – more on that for other types of background checks. Image by Andrey_Popov / Shutterstock Identity Verification Identity verification is yet another critical type of background check for employers. It enables employers to ensure the person applying for the job is who they say they are. Identity verification involves comparing the person's Social Security Number with records such as financial and legal documents. If there are any inconsistencies, they will be flagged in the background check. Employment History Employment background checks verify the candidate's work experience. These background checks are conducted through private and public sources, and the background check service provider may even contact previous employers to verify their information. If the candidate has lied on their resume, claiming that they worked at a company, it will come up on the employment background check. This type of background check also verifies the duration the individual has worked, allowing the employer to be sure of the candidate's qualifications. Education Verification Educational credentials and qualifications are highly important for most roles. Therefore, education verification is a critical background check type. This type of background check ensures a potential candidate has graduated from the college or university they say on their resume. However, it can go beyond that. Background check companies are also able to verify the training the candidate has undergone throughout their education and the certifications received. If there is any discrepancy, it will be flagged in the background check. Image by karolina grabowska / Pexels Financial Background Check Financial background checks are mostly required for positions that involve managing money. Since financial services companies want their employees to have good finances, financial background checks include various details, from tax liens paid to bankruptcy filings. Although a comprehensive type of background check, the Fair Credit Reporting Act limits how far back background check providers can look on financial background checks. For example, they can only go as far back as ten years for bankruptcy filings and seven years for collection accounts. Driving Records If the position requires operating a work vehicle, driving records (Motor Vehicle Report) are essential for employers. It verifies the candidate's driver's license and shows traffic violations, driving-related criminal convictions, and license suspensions. Like the financial background checks, states may have restrictions on how far back the background check company can look at driving records. Therefore, information outside the allowed period by the state won't appear in the background check. Run All Types Of Background Checks There are various types of background checks, but (luckily) you don't need to deal with multiple background check companies. You can run all types of background checks on USPeopleSearch and get a comprehensive report on all the points. The best part is all you need is a name, address, email, or phone number to get started. You can also run a background check on yourself through USPeopleSearch to know what information is available to background check providers. By ML Staff. Images courtesy of Shutterstock & Pexels

Estate planning should be your biggest concern if you are 50 or older, says Dan Serra, a certified financial planner (CFP) at SageVest Wealth Management in McLean, Virginia, who has spent many hours trying to “put the pieces together after a client died.” He recommends seeking professional advice from a financial planner, lawyer and/or tax expert who will consider the details of your life and create an appropriate plan. “Professional advice in this area is well worth the cost to avoid headaches and fighting among children.” Start by creating a new plan or reviewing your current one to reveal potential problems. Following are mistakes that people often make. 1. Plans that are incomplete or in error Obvious as it may seem, some people don’t have an executed will, or they fail to update a previously executed one when they divorce or go through another life change, says Kevin Brady, a CFP at Wealthspire Advisors LLC, in New York City. “This delays the administration of an estate or leads to heated litigation and acrimony.” Also, some people assume a plan is complete because an attorney prepared it, says Neal Van Zutphen, a CFP at Intrinsic Wealth Counsel in Tempe, Arizona. One plan he reviewed lacked provisions for the minor children. “Read your estate planning documents before you sign off.” 2. Misunderstood or underutilized plans Some people don’t understand their estate plan, so it doesn’t reflect their wishes, says Jason Deshayes, a CFP at Cook Wealth in Raleigh, North Carolina. In that case, ask a financial planner to explain the documents. “Finish the process and execute it, so the plan can work.” Sometimes others don’t make use of a person’s plan after that person has signed the documents, says Karen Van Voorhis, a CFP at Daniel J. Galli & Associates in Norwell, Massachusetts. This is particularly true for trusts, which allow a third party to hold assets, such as a house, on behalf of beneficiaries. She said to ask yourself: Why did you set it up — to own your house or some other assets? If you don’t know how to use your trust, ask your attorney. 3. Wills that specify investments If your plan names investments you wish to leave to one or more of your beneficiaries, make sure that you still own them, experts warn. If not, your estate may be required to buy them at higher current prices, which would hurt your beneficiaries. In the worst case, that purchase might drain most or all of the assets from your estate. 4. Plans that don’t comply with current laws Failing to update a plan can make it worthless due to changes in the law and the people named in it, Serra says. He once reviewed a will created in 1976. “There was a long, tedious process of settling the estate, resulting in unnecessary expenses and family strife. Pay an attorney now or pay the price later.” Deshayes suggests revisiting your plan every three years or more often, as needed. He recalls one plan that listed elderly parents, who had died, as guardians of kids who were already in their 30s. If the trust document is outdated, the trustee will be required to execute things in a certain way that may not make sense now. 5. Beneficiary conflicts and mistakes Beneficiaries also need careful attention, says A. Raymond Benton, a CFP at Benton & Company in Denver, Colorado. “Review retirement plans, IRAs and annuity contracts and make sure that beneficiary designations do not conflict with your documents.” Be sure to update beneficiaries on insurance policies and 401(k) plans in the event of a divorce, says Herschel Clanton, a CFP at Chancellor Wealth Management in Atlanta. “I’ve seen the ex-wife as beneficiary, which disappointed the current wife when the husband died. The insurance company and the 401(k) provider paid the beneficiary of the policy as written.” Don’t forget to name contingent (or backup) beneficiaries, so the assets don’t end up in probate should a beneficiary die, says Lindsay Graves, an elder law attorney and a founding partner of the Graves Law Firm in North Canton, Ohio. Be sure to include bank accounts. Many banks offer “payable on death” designations that allow an account to pass to a beneficiary upon the death of the original owner, says Joey Loss, a CFP at Delegated Planning, Inc., in Jacksonville, Florida. “Establishing joint titling on bank accounts for couples and beneficiary designations, whenever possible, can dramatically streamline the estate resolution process.” 6. Gifts that cause problems You want to leave assets to your minor or adult children. Who will handle money for the minors? Are the adults equipped to make the best choices? “Parents should draft a trust that leaves the inheritance in a trust that is managed by responsible trustees,” says Keith Singer, a CFP at Singer Wealth in Boca Raton, Florida. Also, will your gifts have troublesome implications? Let’s say you want your two kids to always have a home. You leave them yours, with conditions for its sale. But one of them needs to move to take a job. That child may have to endure a lengthy, expensive legal process to sell it. And if the home is older, needs repairs and has declined in value, you’ve left them a money pit. 7. Tax consequences from unequal ownership If you’re married, consult your tax adviser when it comes to who owns which assets. Having more assets in one spouse’s name may inflate a future tax bill. The spouse who worked longer may have a larger IRA. Other investment accounts or a second home may be in their name only. Experts advise seeking professional advice about how to make your estate more equal, which would eliminate the possibility of owing more taxes should one of you pass away. 8. Leaving loved ones uninformed Finally, have a discussion with your spouse and kids about your assets, so they know where everything is should you become incapacitated, says Singer, It’s also important, says Kevin Brady, a CFP at Wealthspire Advisors LLC in New York City, to leave a “digital accounts access guide,” particularly if one spouse handles all or most of the financial decisions. “Otherwise, the survivor may find him or herself unable to efficiently access bank accounts, credit cards and other important items.” Words by Patricia Amend. Patricia Amend has been a lifestyle writer and editor for 30 years. She was a staff writer at Inc. magazine; a reporter at the Fidelity Publishing Group; and a senior editor at Published Image, a financial education company that was acquired by Standard & Poor’s. Special thanks to ARP. ARP is the nation's largest nonprofit, nonpartisan organization dedicated to empowering Americans 50 and older to choose how they live as they age. With a nationwide presence, AARP strengthens communities and advocates for what matters most to the more than 100 million Americans 50-plus and their families: health security, financial stability and personal fulfillment. AARP also works for individuals in the marketplace by sparking new solutions and allowing carefully chosen, high-quality products and services to carry the AARP name. Top image by krakenimages

The situation is getting worse: ‘Las Vegas “culinary strike” disrupts local businesses Recently, one of the largest strikes by hotel and restaurant workers took place in Las Vegas. Approximately 700 members of the so-called Culinary Local 226 went on strike to demand an inflation-adjusted pay rise. According to the Las Vegas Review-Journal, all the protesters are employees of the Virgin Hotels casino resort. On Friday, 10 May, they left their jobs and went on strike. Their main demand is to conclude a new labour contract that would increase their wages. As Virgin Hotels representatives later reported, the total number of picketers was much higher than 700. In total, the company employs approximately 1,700 people, who from time to time ‘replaced’ each other. This allowed Virgin Hotels to continue operating, but the overall customer service situation was significantly hampered. The strike also had a negative impact on other establishments in the vicinity due to traffic and pedestrian disruption. Some visitors to Virgin Hotels reported that they had to change their plans because of the picketers. Others claimed that they did not notice any tangible changes in the quality of service. It is noteworthy that Nevada Secretary of State Cisco Aguilar and local Republican MP Stephen Gorsford joined the action. They took part in the strike on Friday evening, but reportedly did not stay long. The strike ended only on Sunday, 12 May, at five in the morning. The former president of the Culinary Union and current treasurer of the organisation, Ted Pappageorge, said that the union has no plans to resume picketing. However, he does not rule it out in the near future if the next session of negotiations on 14 May does not bring results. For those looking to enjoy casino games without the hassle of picketers or strikes, online options provide a convenient alternative. For instance, players can take advantage of the Stay Casino no deposit free chip, allowing them to play and potentially win without any initial deposit. This not only offers convenience but also an opportunity to explore various games risk-free. Pappageorge emphasised before the strike began: ‘At this time, we have decided to “send a message” - this is a two-day strike to see if the company will do the right thing. But the reality is that a prolonged strike will cause long-term damage to the company, and we would like to try to conclude a contract.’ For their part, representatives of Virgin Hotels claim that the union is not negotiating in good faith, the Las Vegas Review-Journal reports. The company even filed a complaint with the National Labour Relations Board. The document claims that the union conducted ‘illegal take-it-or-leave-it negotiations, insisting on unconditional fulfilment of all demands’. Virgin Hotels also reported that union representatives refused to attend preliminary talks scheduled for 2 May, after which they went on strike. Culinary Local 226 denies these allegations, and Ted Pappageorge claims that negotiations have been going on for about five months. ‘The fun side of Vegas is dead’ - visitors complain that the old Las Vegas is lost A recent article about the decline in profits of Las Vegas gambling operators has sparked a heated discussion. Commentators claim that nothing is left of the former gambling capital. The author of the article for Casino.org, financial expert Todd Schreiber shared information about a significant decrease in the profits of operators on the Strip, referring to the recent quarterly reports. According to him, only large gambling establishments feel relatively confident now, while medium and small casinos are gradually declining. As it turned out later, visitors to Las Vegas are also extremely dissatisfied with the city's state. Thus, one of the commentators Denise C noted: ‘Vegas used to be fun. We started going there in the late 1980s. The casinos paid out winnings, the food was cheap, and it was really fun. And then Steve Wynn (billionaire owner of Wynn Resorts - ed.) started the corporate greed of Las Vegas. I think Vegas is over.’ As it turned out, such opinions are far from isolated. A similar comment was shared by reader Jim Cassidy: ‘We started visiting Vegas in the 1970s. It was civilised, there were standards of dress and behaviour for guests, and casino staff treated them like royalty. Today, customer service is terrible, guest behaviour is unacceptable, and crowds at the pools are a joke. And car racing has been a slap in the face to more than half of Las Vegas‘ businesses and almost all of its residents.’ Some even argue that Las Vegas has chosen the wrong path of development, turning from a city of gambling into something completely different and incomprehensible to those who come here to play. One of the triggers for commentators was the recent closure of the Tropicana casino and the start of construction of a stadium in its place. Casino.org reader Don A considers such decisions to be a terrible mistake: ‘People go to Vegas to gamble. I am very upset about the destruction of the Tropicana. I don't go to Vegas to watch a ball game. The old glitz of Vegas is gone. All this automation is pathetic. I used to love my wheel of fortune and the guy who serviced it. And now it's automated. Changing Las Vegas for the better has been the BIGGEST failure.’ Given that competition in the gambling world is growing rapidly, Las Vegas may indeed face new challenges and lose a significant portion of visitors in the future. Macau is already nipping at its heels, and new large casino resorts will soon be launched in popular tourist regions, including Thailand, Sri Lanka, and others. The competition will only grow in the future. Las Vegas business versus Formula 1. The petition on Change.org has collected more than 2 thousand signatures Representatives of Las Vegas businesses have created a petition on Change.org to cancel the Formula 1 Grand Prix scheduled for 21-23 November 2024. According to them, the event will have a negative impact on small businesses and drastically reduce profits. The petition to cancel the Formula 1 Grand Prix in Las Vegas was created by Lisa Mayo-DeRizo, a public relations consultant. She represents at least six business owners who claim to have suffered serious losses during last year's preparations for the race. The petition states that holding the Grand Prix in Las Vegas will have a number of critical consequences: negative impact on local businesses due to possible business interruptions; traffic congestion and complications due to the construction of a bridge on Flamingo Road; lack of detailed accountability and any public consultation, which could lead to unpredictable consequences. The petition also states: ‘Contrary to the supposed economic benefits, the grand prix has a negative impact on small businesses, workers, and transportation companies that face large losses in revenue, reduced traffic, and general disruption during the event.’ According to Casino.org, the preparations for the first Vegas Grand Prix in 2023 resulted in the loss of approximately $30 million in revenue for local businesses. One of the main reasons for such losses was the construction of the Flamingo Road bridge, which lasted approximately six months and effectively isolated some of the local businesses. Magdie Amer, the owner of a local restaurant, said that it was because of the race that she was forced to close her establishment: "We weren't even working at 10% of what we used to. We were just losing money every day.’ According to the author of the petition, Lisa Mayo-DeRizo, business representatives plan to file a lawsuit against Formula 1, but first want to try to use the available administrative resources. A Clarke County media representative reportedly declined to comment on the petition. At the same time, Clark County Commission Chairman Tick Segerblom supported the idea of compensating businesses affected by the construction. And representatives of Formula 1 promised that this year's preparations for the grand prix would be less extensive and destructive than last year's. At the time of publication of the news, the petition had collected more than two thousand signatures since its publication (3 May). This is quite a small number, but the petition has already been covered by many media outlets: Las Vegas Review-Journal, KLAS, KSNV, Fox 5 Las Vegas, Nevada Globe, etc. Despite the fact that petitions on Change.org do not have legal weight, they can still gain political power. This is what the authors are currently hoping for. Last year, after the Formula 1 Grand Prix, business representatives filed a claim with the Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority (LVCVA) for damages of about $23 million. By ML staff. Image courtesy of Marry Marvel.

The awardees of the 2024 Cartier Women's Initiative and the programme details for its 2025 edition were unveiled on Wednesday, May 22, during the annual awards ceremony, which took place this year in Shenzhen, China. 2024 edition awardees celebrated as "Forces for Good" This year's Cartier Women's Initiative theme, “Forces for Good”, mirrors the programme's ambition to broaden its reach and foster a more just and equitable world. It emphasises the importance of collective action to deliver change, for good. The Cartier Women's Initiative Awards Ceremony, hosted by writer and gender equality champion, Sandi Toksvig, opened with an evocative performance by the dance department of the Zhejiang Conservatory of Music. By echoing this year's theme of the Cartier Women's Initiative, the ensemble provided a poignant reflection on the power of unity. The evening progressed with a conversation with Cyrille Vigneron, CEO and President of Cartier, who pointed out how proud the Maison is to continue supporting this vibrant community of changemakers to multiply its collective impact and reaffirmed Cartier’s deep conviction that when women thrive, humanity thrives. The ceremony also welcomed esteemed guests of honour: Karlie Kloss, supermodel, entrepreneur, and philanthropist, alongside Guo Jingjing, Olympic diving champion, advocate for public welfare and environmental protection. As catalysts for change, they discussed their perspectives on gender equality and emphasised the significance of inclusion for everyone to be empowered to realise their potential. The celebration offered a moment to explore the inspiring journeys of the 2024 fellows, whose creativity and entrepreneurial spirit combine to address the most crucial social and environmental challenges of our time. The ceremony concluded with the revelation of the first, second, and third-place awardees across 11 categories, including 9 regional awards and 2 thematic awards: the "Science & Technology Pioneer Award" introduced in 2021, and the "Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Award" inaugurated in 2023. The venue was filled with distinguished leaders, heads of nonprofit organisations, and representatives from international bodies, all eager to collaborate and act. Together with the awardees celebrated that evening, they embodied those "Forces for Good", whose creativity, and determination inspire hope for a brighter future for generations to come. The eleven first-place awardees: Latin America and the Caribbean: Marlene Molero Suárez, Peru, ELSA North America: Julia Taylor, United States, GeekPack Europe: Mira Nameth, United Kingdom, Biophilica Francophone Sub-Saharan Africa: Isabelle Kamariza, Rwanda, Solid'Africa Anglophone and Lusophone Africa: Titi Adewusi, Nigeria, 9ijakids Middle East and North Africa: Salma Bougarrani, Morocco, GREEN WATECH East Asia: Jiwon Park, South Korea, SAIB South Asia and Central Asia: Mansi Jain, India, DigitalPaani Oceania: Simran Kaur, New Zealand, Girls That Invest Science & Technology Pioneer Award: Lynne Lim, Singapore, NousQ Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Award: Sadriye Görece, United States, BlindLook The eleven second-place awardees: Latin America and the Caribbean: Isabela Chusid, Brazil, Linus North America: Jessica Menon, United States, Equilo Europe: Amaia Rodríguez, Spain, Gravity Wave Francophone Sub-Saharan Africa: Jessica Long, Senegal, Maad Anglophone and Lusophone Africa: Claire Van Enk, Kenya, Farm to Feed Middle East and North Africa: Rania Gaafar, Egypt, ADVA East Asia: Emily Yu, China, Ginger Ah South Asia and Central Asia: Ira Guha, India, Asan Oceania: Alison Harrington, Australia, Resparke Science & Technology Pioneer Award: Ninna Granucci, France, Green Spot Technologies Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Award: Akshita Sachdeva, India, Trestle Labs The eleven third-place awardees: Latin America and the Caribbean: Mercedes Bidart, Colombia, Quipu North America: Kyla Bolden, Canada, Wiz Kid Learning Europe: Laura Harnett, United Kingdom, Seep Francophone Sub-Saharan Africa: Victoria Munguti, Rwanda, HeptaPay Anglophone and Lusophone Africa: June Muchuku, Kenya, Plumbee Middle East and North Africa: Shahira Youssef, Egypt, Chitosan Egypt East Asia: Xintong Du, China, VoiceChanger South Asia and Central Asia: Marina Tran-Vu, Vietnam, EQUO Oceania: Frances Bilbao, Australia, Mums Matter Psychology Science & Technology Pioneer Award: Monika Tomecka, Scotland and Poland, uFraction8 Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Award: Erica Cole, United States, No Limbits 2025 special edition fully dedicated to impact Scheduled for May 22, on the occasion of the Women’s Pavilion, at the World Expo in Osaka, Kansai, Japan, the 2025 edition of the Cartier Women's Initiative will honour former fellows whose ventures have successfully developed, showcasing significant, measurable impacts within their fields. This ceremony will recognise nine impact awardees in categories that are based on the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals, namely, Improving Lives, Preserving the Planet, and Creating Opportunities. Through this special edition, dedicated to scaling impact, the Cartier Women's Initiative intends to underscore the critical importance of long-term commitment for impact-driven enterprises. It will also highlight the key role that substantial financial support ($100,000 per award) and amplified support from the network of fellows play in nurturing their journey. Since its inception in 2006, the Cartier Women's Initiative has expanded to encompass 11 categories, including 9 regional awards and 2 thematic awards: the "Science & Technology Pioneer Award" launched in 2021, and the "Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Award" introduced in 2023. For these categories, a distinguished jury selects the top three applicants, awarding 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place $100,000, $60,000, and $30,000 in grant funding respectively. Beyond the financial rewards, these awardees join the "Fellows" community. This affiliation grants them access to tailored mentoring and coaching, media visibility, networking opportunities and education courses from the leading business school INSEAD, further empowering them in their entrepreneurial journey. For more information about the programme and fellows: www.cartierwomensinitiative.com ML Staff. Content/image courtesy of Richemont

The Wolfsonian–FIU is partnering with the City of Miami Beach and neighboring institutions to present free monthly evenings of à la carte culture. Grab your bike or comfy walking shoes and take in the best of South Beach's art, performances, screenings, and tours, planning your night as you like it—choose a couple of spots, or make the full rounds, 6–9pm. Visit mbartsandculture.org for details and route. For June's Culture Crawl, we're zeroing in on Silhouettes: Image and Word in the Harlem Renaissance  with a free guided tour starting at 6:30pm. Following the tour, draw inspiration from the publications on display and design a book to take home with you in our Bookbinding 101 workshop (materials and instruction provided). Date: Thursday, June 20, 2024 Time: 6–9pm Location: The Wolfsonian–FIU @ 1001 Washington Avenue Register By ML Staff. Courtesy of The Wolfsonian–FIU

Explore the cultural reach of the Caribbean in the Harlem Renaissance during a day of talks and conversation inspired by our Silhouettes exhibition. Art historian Samantha Noël kicks things off with a keynote presentation about how American artists like Aaron Douglas and Josephine Baker used "tropical aesthetics" to shape the development of Black modernity. Following the talk, enjoy a reception and a panel discussion with FIU faculty that will draw connections between the broader cultural movement, the tropics, and featured works in the show, offering fresh perspectives and insights into this transformative time. Panelists Alexandra Cornelius, History and Women's Studies DepartmentHeather Russell, English DepartmentChantalle Verna, History DepartmentShawn Christian, English Department (Moderator) Schedule 11:00am–12:00pm | Talk by Dr. Samantha Noël 12:00pm–01:00pm | Exhibition Viewing and Reception 01:00pm–02:00pm | FIU Faculty Panel Register By ML Staff. Courtesy of The Wolfsonian–FIU

Widely regarded as his most important and controversial commission, Harry Clarke's stained-glass masterpiece, the Geneva Window, is again on view at The Wolfsonian–FIU. An internationally renowned Irish artist, Clarke was commissioned in 1926 by the newly independent Irish Free State to create a window as a gift to the League of Nations in Geneva. The completed window was, however, rejected—labeled too provocative and "unrepresentative" of the Irish people. This new installation sheds light on the life and times of Harry Clarke, the stories behind the window, and the consequences of cultural censorship. By ML Staff. Courtesy of The Wolfsonian–FIU

The Big World, focusing on depictions of the land in The Wolfsonian's collection, challenges expectations of landscape art as it goes beyond bucolic scenes to reveal changing vistas of the modern era rendered in paintings, the decorative arts, and even a grand piano. The exhibition charts a course through the end of the 19th century and into the first half of the 20th, outlining the story of global growth and shifting ideas about the world around us—from pristine nature, to its radical alteration in modern urban and industrial centers, to panoramas ruined by war and environmental disregard. Presented in connection with Bridge Deconstruction Site  and The Breath Eaters. By ML Staff. Courtesy of The Wolfsonian–FIU

At the Only Watch 2024 charity auction, held on Friday May 10 2024 at Christie’s in Geneva, the Grande Sonnerie Reference 6301A-010 in steel fetched the sum of 15.7 million Swiss francs. Patek Philippe is proud and pleased to be able to donate this amount to the Monaco Association against Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy (Association Monégasque contre les Myopathies AMM) so as to contribute to the development of treatments for degenerative neuromuscular diseases. Since the first edition in 2005, Patek Philippe has remained a staunch supporter of the Only Watch charity auction, each time donating a special, unique version of one of its timepieces, usually a Grand Complication. For the tenth edition of Only Watch, Patek Philippe chose to showcase its mastery in the realm of chiming watches by reinterpreting the Grande Sonnerie Reference 6301, an outstanding timepiece launched in 2020, uniting a grande sonnerie (the “Grail” of acoustic functions), a petite sonnerie and a minute repeater. The unique piece created for the 2024 sale is the first version of Reference 6301 in steel – a metal rarely used for the Patek Philippe Grand Complications. It is also distinguished by its dial, adorned with a combination of rare handcrafts: the gold dial plate is hand-guilloched in a swirling pattern, shining through coats of translucent blue-green Grand Feu enamel, according to the traditional technique of flinqué enameling. Twelve baguette-cut diamond hour markers add to this graceful play of light. The elegant case in polished steel features a concave bezel and countersunk, satin-brushed flanks. The caliber GS 36-750 PS IRM manually-wound movement (703 parts) is notable for its three classic gongs, its two patents related to the striking mechanism and its patented jumping small seconds at 6 o’clock. Patek Philippe is delighted to be able to place its know-how and renown at the service of the fight against degenerative neuromuscular diseases. The Geneva manufacture also thanks all its customers and the devotees of haute horlogerie and collectors of fine mechanisms who –in the course of these ten editions of Only Watch – have expressed their confidence in the brand by being prepared to raise the bidding and by investing considerable amounts in aid of research into muscular dystrophy. ML Staff. Courtesy of Patek Philippe

The manufacture is reinterpreting its iconic Golden Ellipse wristwatch by endowing it with an exclusive brand-new bracelet whose modern patented construction unites comfort with elegance. Equipped with the caliber 240 ultra-thin self-winding movement, the new Golden Ellipse Reference 5738/1R-001 presents a case and bracelet in rose gold framing an ebonyblack sunburst dial on which the slender hour markers and hands, also in rose gold, stand out clearly. With its instantly recognizable shape, between a circle and a rectangle, and its harmonious proportions inspired by the ancient golden section, the Golden Ellipse has made its mark as a style icon in the Patek Philippe collections. Launched in 1968 with a case in yellow gold and a dial in blue gold, it has since appeared in other hues of gold and with dials of different colors. For its 40th anniversary in 2008, the collection introduced a large model (34.5 x 39.5 mm) in platinum, with a blue sunburst dial (5738P-001) followed in 2018 by a large model in rose gold with an ebony-black sunburst dial (5738R001). From the time of its launch and through to the early 1980s the Golden Ellipse collection was proposed, not only on leather straps but on several types of chain bracelet, such as the milanais-style bracelet of Reference 3548 (1968) or the polonais-style bracelet of Reference 3605 (1974). To these must be added a number of link bracelets with particularly distinctive designs. This great creativity expressed in the bracelets added to the aura surrounding this flagship watch of the 1970s, a unique alliance of audacity and balance. A reinvented chain bracelet Patek Philippe is revisiting this great era of horological design by proposing Reference 5738 on an elegant chain-style bracelet in rose gold that follows the contours of the wrist and offers superb comfort while also accentuating the finesse of the case. True to its continuous quest for innovation, the manufacture was intent on reinstating the chain bracelet in the collection, but eliminating the technical drawbacks associated with the previous versions, particularly with respect to adjusting the length. The product of 15 years’ development, the new bracelet in 18K rose gold, hand-polished throughout, is distinguished by its modern, patented construction, which made it possible to recreate the style of the classic chain bracelets. It comprises 363 parts, including more than 300 links, assembled manually one by one. The new bracelet is introduced as an exclusive feature of this Golden Ellipse Reference 5738/1R-001. Its modern construction allows the length to be adjusted more easily, whether shorter or longer. The clasp (its cover adorned with an engraved motif continuing that of the bracelet) offers the choice of three adjustment notches. A pure, timeless dial design The ebony-black “sunburst” dial forms a background to baton-style applied hour markers and slender cheveu-style hands, all in rose gold. This timeless, understated aesthetic perfectly reflects the spirit of the Golden Ellipse. A black onyx cabochon set into the crown completes the visual harmony of the design. The slimmest Patek Philippe watch Beating inside this model is the self-winding caliber 240, an ultra-thin movement with off-center minirotor in 22K gold allowing for a case with an extremely low profile (5.9 mm) – making the Golden Ellipse Reference 5738 the slimmest watch in the Patek Philippe regular collection. The new Reference 5738/1R-001 joins the regular collection References 5738P-001, 5738R-001 and the Rare Handrafts Reference 5738/51G-001. Patek Philippe and the metal bracelets Ever since the emergence of the first wrist-worn timepieces in the 1910s, Patek Philippe has been renowned for the technical and aesthetic inventiveness of its bracelets. The late 1960s and the decade of the 70s also stands out as a period of great creativity in the metal bracelets proposed. Patek Philippe’s metal bracelets can be divided into two types, according to the way in which they are constructed. The links of the chain bracelets are crafted one by one by artisan chainsmiths from a gold wire or a wire in another metal, and then assembled by hand to produce a structure that is remarkably supple. Throughout its history Patek Philippe has continued to showcase the skills of its artisans and certain specialized suppliers, such as Gennari Ponti, subsequently renamed ARSA (Ateliers Réunis SA) before being integrated into Patek Philippe when all the manufacture’s workshops were united under one roof at Plan-les-Ouates in 1996. The links, clasps and catches comprising the bracelets known as “mechanical” are produced on CNC machinery from a bar of metal (gold, platinum or steel) before being assembled by hand and then –depending on the bracelet – polished or satin brushed, also by hand. This category includes the polished/satin-brushed bracelet of the Nautilus (launched in 1976 and requiring more than 15 different finishing operations), the “Goutte” (or “droplet”) bracelet (1998) and the fully polished bracelet of the ladies’ Twenty~4 watch (1999). The new chain-style bracelet developed and crafted by a historic partner of Patek Philippe and introduced as an exclusive feature of the Golden Ellipse Reference 5738/1R-001 unites the best of those two worlds, with parts produced by industrial processes on the latest-generation CNC machines, and then assembled and finished by hand, drawing on all the traditional know-how of the artisan chainsmiths. Technical data Golden Ellipse Reference 5738/1R-001 Movement: Caliber 240 Ultra-thin self Ultra-thin self-winding mechanical movement Diameter: 27.5 mm Height: 2.53 mm Number of parts: 161 Number of jewels: 27 Power reserve: Min. 48 hours Winding rotor: Mini-rotor in 22K gold, unidirectional winding Frequency: 21 600 semi-oscillations per hour (3 Hz) Balance: Gyromax® Balance spring: Spiromax® (in Silinvar®) Balance spring stud: Adjustable Functions: 2-position crown: • pushed in: to wind the movement manually • pulled out: to set the time Displays: By hands: • hours and minutes from the center Hallmark: Patek Philippe Seal Features Case: 18K rose gold Solid back Crown set with a black onyx cabochon Water-resistant to 30 m Case dimensions: From 3 o’clock to 9 o’clock: 34.5 mm From 6 o’clock to 12 o’clock: 39.5 mm Height: 5.9 mm Dial: Ebony black “sunburst” Dial plate in 18K gold Cheveu-style hour and minute hands in 18K rose gold Baton-style applied hour markers in 18K rose gold Bracelet: Chain-style bracelet in 18K rose gold, manually polished throughout, with exclusive patented construction comprising 363 parts, including more than 300 links assembled manually one by one Clasp in 18K rose gold with engraved cover and three adjustment notches ML Staff. Courtesy of Patek Philippe

As a premium Partner of Paris 2024, LVMH is making an active contribution to the cultural resonance of these Olympic and Paralympic Games, organizing a unique agenda of artistic events as part of the Cultural Olympiad. Throughout the summer, LVMH will present a compelling program that bridges the arts, sports and the Olympic values, spotlighting the engagement of Berluti, Dior, Guerlain, Louis Vuitton, La Samaritaine and the Fondation Louis Vuitton. Guerlain presents “OR NORME”, an art exhibition celebrating gold, the precious metal that inspires athletes and sparks dreams the world over. The Olympic & Paralympic Games Paris 2024 bring Guerlain a special opportunity to celebrate gold, the precious metal that inspires athletes and sparks dreams the world over. Gold has exerted an irrepressible fascination throughout the ages, transcending its physical nature to become a universal symbol of value and excellence. Gold has been intimately linked to the history of Guerlain and its products, from the first Bee bottle created in 1853, to contemporary interpretations. Curated by Jean-Luc Monterosso and Benoît Baume, the OR NORME exhibition features works by 16 artists who explore the dreamlike dimensions of gold through various mediums and interpretations: They include Carolle Benitah, Paul Cupido, Harald Gottschalk, Graphset and Amandine Besacier, Morvarid K, Yves Klein, Enzo Lefort, Cédric Matet, Pedro Motta, Isabel Muñoz, Martin Parr, Pierre and Gilles, Georges Rousse, Rodolphe von Gombergh, Wiktoria Wojciechowska and Sophie Zénon. From Carolle Benitah’s gold inlay and gold leaf in works by Georges Rousse and Yves Klein, to Martin Parr’s ironic gold bars, gold is interpreted in a variety of poetic and contemporary forms. Guerlain also commissioned two original works for the event: a unique print on glass and 24-carat gold by Spanish photographer Isabel Muñoz, and an innovative optical experience by the creative duo Graphset and Amandine Besacier. Illuminated in golden hues, the exhibition is a moving panorama of the history of photography that showcases the exceptional artistic and esthetic heritage of Maison Guerlain. Discover the exhibition between June 6 and September 12 at 68 avenue des Champs-Elysées in Paris Samaritaine Paris celebrates the Paris 2024 Olympics adventure With France already abuzz with excitement as the Olympic and Paralympic Games Paris 2024 draw near, Samaritaine is celebrating the sheer fun and playful inspiration of sports, creating a giant podium. Three exhibitions are set for the Olympic and Paralympic Games Paris 2024, beginning with “Légendes Mondiales du Sport” (Global Sporting Legends), retracing memorable moments from a century of sports history through more than 100 iconic and unique items that belonged to champions. The second exhibition features women in sports with “Domestic Games, Les Femmes à l’Epreuve” (Domestic Games, Women Take the Lead). Installations by Camille Menart examine the feminine condition in international sports competitions. Finally, the third exhibition at Samaritaine invites Fisheye, which has curated a display of photos by Enzo Lefort, a member of the French foil fencing team and LVMH Group ambassador, who shares an insider’s look at sports and high-level competition. The three exhibitions open at Samaritaine Paris on May 16, 2024. ML Staff. Content/image(s) courtesy of LVMH

If you are hading to South of France this Summer don't miss the À Ténèbres” by Djabril Boukhenaïssi exhibition in Arles. Lee Ufan Arles and Maison Guerlain joined to create the Art & Environment Prize in 2023. The annual award honors works with universal significance and a philosophical depth that resonates with the ethos of Lee Ufan, coupled with a connection to environmental themes, aligning with the values upheld by Maison Guerlain. The exhibition “À Ténèbres” by Djabril Boukhenaïssi, winner of the first Art & Environment Prize, will be presented at Espace MA by Lee Ufan Arles from July 1 to September 1, 2024.  Centered on the disappearance of night, the exhibition brings together paintings and engravings done by the artist during his residency. For this second edition, open to all artists worldwide in all artistic disciplines, with no age limits or prerequisite qualifications, the jury will be chaired by Lee Ufan and include members of Lee Ufan Arles and Guerlain, joined by prominent personalities. Representing Maison Guerlain are Gabrielle Saint-Genis, President and CEO, Ann Caroline Prazan, Art, Culture and Heritage Director, and Clément Renaudet, Head of Climate and Biodiversity. The winning artist will benefit from support and a grant from Lee Ufan Arles over a six- to eight-week period in early 2025, along with a unique workspace in the heart of Arles. Candidates can apply via the site linked below until July 15, 2024:   www.leeufan-arles.org/art-environment-prize ML Staff. Content/image(s) courtesy of LVMH