The last time we covered a Kraken Opus book, it had an air of exclusivity surrounding it. There’s no change with this publication slated to hit their catalogue in 2010. Kraken Opus will team up with celebrity chef Marco Pierre White to launch an impressive wine book. The book weighing over 30lb. is to cover the top 100 wineries of the world. The selection process for the 100 wineries is two step. First, Kraken Opus’ experts compile a top 300 list. Then, 40 sommeliers decide on the short list based on a grading criteria at 2010’s wine UN in London. Thirdly, just to keep the ranking all the more exclusive, a top 10 selection will be decided upon. It’s mentioned that every wine producing country will be represented. Each book is accompanied with a six-bottle case of wine from the listed vintners, that’s 600 bottles. The publication series is very limited. There will be only 100 published. So far, there’s 25 that are already spoken for.

pic and info: Decanter

In a current Globe and Mail 4-part series, selected excerpts from Isadore Shape’s book covers the genesis of his Four Seasons hotel empire and the philosophy of their renown service.  The prevalence of the idyllic imagery of 60’s and 70’s Toronto - where it all began, gives you the sense that Sharp was really on to something. And to my surprise there’s a Hungarian connection as well inspiration coming from a fast food chain: McDonald’s. So far, a selection of two texts have been posted. Part one: Building the Dream, link here. Part two: The Golden Rule, link here.

pic and info: Globe and Mail

Opus publishers are releasing an anthology of the Saatchi Gallery’s most famous exhibitions. There are over 150 artists showcased in the book which is limited to 950 copies. The 850 page 35 kg. book comes in its own wood crate-like casing. Each book is signed personally by the London gallery’s owner, the renown collector Charles Saatchi. The pre-publication price is £1,950.00, you pre-order it now at the Opus online store. (Note to self: when in London, visit the Saatchi Gallery.)

More after the jump.

John Dolmayan, Torpedo Comics owner and of System of a Down’s fame won Action Comics issue #1 for $317,200 at an online auction just recently. Apparently, he purchased the item for a third party. The comic storyline has the debut appearance of Superman. It was originally published in June, 1938. The previous owner of the comic book is known to have owned the “holy grail of comics” since 1950, which he had purchased second-hand for 35 cents. There are about 100 copies known to exist. To date it holds the highest price paid for a comic book.

pic and info: LA Times

In a recent interview, Nick Foulkes goes into the topic of luxury and recites memorable periods of America’s socialite elite. All subject matter which is contained in his new book - High Society, The History of America’s Upper Class.

More after the jump.