I stepped into the Argosy Book Store to view some collections of antique books. At the cashier counter, to my surprise, I discovered a pile of newly released books titled King of Diamonds: HARRY WINSTON - The Definitive Biography of an American Icon. Intrigued by the title and the familiar name of HARRY WINSTON, a famous diamond store on Fifth Avenue, I felt compelled to purchase the book. King of Diamonds is authored by Ronald Winston, the older son of Harry Winston, alongside William Stadiem.
The book eloquently traces Harry Winston's journey, chronicling his transformation from a young Jewish immigrant, who escaped Ukraine around 1890, to the eponymous monarch of diamonds in New York City. Central to his success were three pillars: knowledge, courage, and financial acumen. By 1925, Harry Winston had surpassed even his loftiest aspirations, yet his insatiable drive propelled him ever onward, yearning for greater heights. While King of Diamonds narrates extravagant dinners with high-profile clients, it also reveals a poignant absence of warmth and familial bonds, particularly between Harry and his two sons – Ronald Winston and Bruce Winston. I do wonder how the narrative might differ had the book been authored by Harry himself, rather than his older son Ronald.
A highlight of the book lies in its exploration of the intersection between diamonds and geopolitics, offering insights into the global appetite for these precious gems. From wartime intrigue to the corridors of power in New York City, King of Diamonds paints a vivid picture of an era defined by opulence and ambition. Ronald Winston's narrative voice reflects a palpable yearning to carve out his own identity, distinct from the shadow cast by his father's legacy. While he may not have inherited his father’s audacity and tenacity, Ronald's candid account offers readers a glimpse into the complexities of navigating life in the wake of a towering figure.
The conclusion of the book delves into the legal battles between Ronald and Bruce, which lead to the unraveling of the empire their father painstakingly built. Overall, King of Diamonds showcases the challenges posed by the weight of familial legacy and sibling rivalry intertwined with the allure of the world of diamonds.