Marriott International’s Luxury Group, encompassing brands like The Ritz-Carlton, St. Regis, Bvlgari Hotels & Resorts, and JW Marriott, has announced an exciting new partnership with Sotheby’s, the renowned auction house. This collaboration, aptly named “Iconic Pieces. Extraordinary Experiences,” marks a unique fusion of luxury hospitality and the world of rare collectibles.
Sotheby’s Luxury Sales showcase a curated collection of high-end items including fine jewelry, fashion, handbags, watches, and rare spirits. This partnership seamlessly integrates these exquisite offerings with the Luxury Group’s unparalleled hospitality, creating truly once-in-a-lifetime experiences.
The collaboration is built on a shared vision to create transformative luxury experiences, as stated by George Hammer, Global Head of Luxury Marketing at Marriott International. “There’s a natural synergy between the Luxury Group and Sotheby’s,” he emphasized. “We believe hospitality is an art, and through this collaboration, we’re exploring new ways to connect with our guests. By merging tangible treasures with unparalleled travel experiences, we are redefining what luxury can be.”
This partnership introduces a new era of luxury journeys, with curated itineraries inspired by items featured in Sotheby’s Luxury Sales. These exclusive experiences blend luxury, culture, and adventure, offering a truly immersive travel experience. The inaugural collection includes “Whiskey Reverie,” presented by The Ritz-Carlton, which blends the world of fine whiskey with luxurious hospitality. Additionally, “Alexander McQueen Discovery,” crafted by EDITION Hotels, offers a deep dive into London’s fashion scene inspired by the legendary designer. These exclusive experiences will be auctioned on Sotheby’s Sealed, marking the first time the auction house ventures into selling experiences on its platform, adding a new level of excitement for bidders.
The collaboration extends beyond travel, offering exclusive VIP access to bespoke masterclasses hosted at the Luxury Group’s most iconic properties. These intimate settings allow guests to explore high-end auction items with guidance from Sotheby’s experts. The first masterclass, “Whiskey & Watches,” will take place at Ritz-Carlton New York, NoMad, where participants will savor fine American whiskies alongside a showcase of rare timepieces. An exclusive jewelry masterclass will be hosted in the prestigious Presidential Suite at St. Regis New York, allowing select guests to preview items from Sotheby’s Important Jewels auction.
To further enhance the experience, the collaboration will inspire a global content series that spotlights art and culture through the lens of both brands. Short-form videos will explore the rich artistry within the Luxury Group’s hotels, alongside local art scenes and travel recommendations. This content will be shared on Sotheby’s website, providing audiences with a deeper connection to the luxury experience.
Eléonore Dethier, Sotheby’s Global Head of Partnerships, highlighted the groundbreaking nature of the collaboration, stating, “By bringing together Sotheby’s expertise in curating extraordinary collectibles with the Luxury Group’s world-class hospitality, we are setting a new standard for immersive luxury experiences. This partnership celebrates the intersection of luxury, culture, and hospitality in a way that has never been done before, offering guests and collectors a truly unique opportunity.”
Through this collaboration, Marriott International’s Luxury Group and Sotheby’s are reimagining the world of luxury, offering collectors and travelers an unforgettable fusion of world-class hospitality and rare, iconic treasures. This innovative partnership promises to redefine the definition of luxury, providing an unparalleled experience that caters to the desires of discerning travelers and art collectors alike.
