It’s the thought that counts

When money’s no trouble, the process of gifting becomes simpler; the world becomes your shopping arcade with all kinds of unique options. However, this also raises that age-old conundrum: what do you get someone who already has everything that they might want, or need? The answer is simple; you find them something that’s outrageously exclusive and classy, and can cater to their personalities and likes. But a hefty price tag doesn’t always guarantee exclusivity; it’s also the uniqueness of the item and its relevance to the individual that can make it immeasurably valuable to them. In other words, it’s the thought that counts.

Here are three splendid options for people with particular tastes — the sci-fi movie buff, the fantasy TV show fan and the art lover looking for creative expression.

In this case, the pen might prove more expensive than a sword made of Valyrian Steel. A fabulous collection of pens (fountain and rollerball) has been launched by renowned Italian luxury products maker, Montegrappa, to commemorate HBO’s hit series Game of Thrones . The fabled Iron Throne has been scaled down and intricately crafted onto these works of art. Seven swords, meticulously detailed, surround the cap to represent the seven kingdoms and culminate at the top to form a crown. The piece-de-resistance is the single sword, with a red ruby on its hilt that makes up the clip.

The barrel is equally impressive and just as beautiful as the cap, making up the storyline through symbols of the show. Only 300 of each type will be produced (denoting the year of settlement of the last of the Targaryen kings — 300 AC) with seven exclusive pens of each type cast in solid 18k gold, just to make the collection fit for a king or queen.

The overwhelmingly opulent Star Wars commemorative kit that’s handcrafted by the good folks at ST Dupont comprises of a chess set that even the Emperor would be impressed with. The French luxury items manufacturer has crafted a unique and exquisitely styled set that looks futuristic and yet fashionably elegant. The chess set helps make the epic saga’s 40th anniversary quite a landmark for collectors.

The board is crafted with black polished obsidian, a naturally occuring volcanic glass, in matte finish. Each piece represents a character in a unique and artistically rendered format with certain signature aspects to make them recognisable. Each piece is enhanced to represent the Light Side and the Dark Side of the force — white pieces are hand-carved from natural rock crystal quartz, while the black are made using nephrite jade with accents for each character etched in gold. It doesn’t get any more exclusive for Star Wars fans, unless they have the Millennium Falcon sitting in the garage.

The absolute perfect gift for any art fan, this bespoke book of illustrations will outline a person's life and become a real tribute of love. It’s a gift that also keeps on giving in the true sense, allowing the individual to colour in their life’s legacy. Renowned illustrator Ian Beck (Elton John’s 1973, Yellow Brick Road album cover), is the artist behind the illustrations for each book. Masters Bookbinding, veterans in the craft, will engulf the ‘artwork’ in hardbound luxurious leather. The final touch is the 24 karat gold leaf lettering on the cover. While colouring books were deemed childish, it’s an art form that’s being revived for adults.. Each of Beck’s personalised illustrations are hand rendered and presented on 10 gorgeous handmade paper sheets. The artist meets with each person to understand the significant events in their lives and chooses the style for his art. This makes for the perfect present for someone who is artistically inclined.

Dhiram Shah is the Mumbai based founder of LuxuryLaunches.com

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