Breakfast At Tiffany’s
Tiffany & Co. opened a new store on Wall Street yesterday that is expected to generate tourism and revenue as part of the restoration of lower Manhattan. They hope their shiny image, as one of the world’s premier jewelers will add luster to the area.
Photo: AnnMarie Costella
“Tiffany & Co. is New York’s favorite jewelry store,” said Michael J. Kowalski, Tiffany & Co. chairman and chief executive officer. “We want to be part of the future of the neighborhood where we began.”
The merchant captured the beauty and charm that has long been associated with its name by adorning the streets around the store with signature blue Tiffany décor. Banners hung outside the New York Stock Exchange and Traders were handed goodie bags filled with Tiffany brand water and blue and white cookies.
Photo: AnnMarie Costella
Kowalski presented the 1st Tiffany box to New York’s Deputy Mayor, Daniel L. Doctoroff, who called it “one of the great icons of the world.” “Tiffany & Co. symbolizes eternity, charm, wonder, and surprise,” he added. “We give Tiffany jewelry to celebrate the momentous occasions our lives.”
The new location at 37 Wall Street is a twenty-five story tall Beau Arts-style structure that was built in 1907 and is the former home of Trust Company of America. Yabu Pushelberg, an architectural design firm, restored it to its original brilliance using glass and light to give the interior a modern sparkle. “The way the store is designed is so amazing,” said shopper, Rachel King. “It makes me want to buy stuff.”
The very first Tiffany store opened just around the corner from Wall Street on Lower Broadway in 1837. “We are very excited that we have come full circle and returned to our roots,” said Allen Mesim, the director of the 3rd and 4th floors and a Tiffany employee for the last fourteen years. “We stand for quality craftsmanship and design. It’s an amazing institution.”
Leggy models wearing Tiffany jewelry and blue evening gowns posed for the hundreds of shoppers gathered outside. Others in black gowns twirled Tiffany brand umbrellas as street musicians played the song “Moon River.”
By 11:00 am the store was packed with customers and the merchant treated them all to breakfast at Tiffany’s. On the menu were bagels, juice, and a wide assortment of Hors D’oeuvres including bite-sized cakes in the shape of the classic blue Tiffany box with white bow.
The real star of the opening was not the classic architecture that housed the gems, but the gems themselves. “This diamond ring is eleven karats and costs $865,000,” said Leslie McKenzie as she admired the glittery stone atop her finger. “I can’t believe they let me try it on.”
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