Sketches and pieces from Evan Yurman’s Maritime Collection.

 
  Evan and David Yurman

Fascinated by architecture everywhere from the Washington Square Arch in New York City to the Sag Harbor Marina, Evan Yurman launched the men’s collection at his father’s renowned jewelry house five years ago. Today, as boundaries are pushed and new additions to the family line are created, he continues to draw from the lore of the sea and the intricate craftsmanship once a trademark of a sailor’s dedication to his vessel.

A leisurely seaman himself, Yurman used his favorite East End pastime and its array of unique instruments, knots and chains as the backdrop for this year’s collection. Visions from Moby Dick, a book his grandfather used to read to him as a child, shaped the Anchor Chain bracelets and North Star necklaces that comprise the Maritime Collection. “The local flavors of the towns in the Hamptons inspire me,” says Yurman. “Visiting the marina and Whaling Museum in Sag Harbor has become a family tradition. The area speaks to the historic, nautical culture that was a part of my upbringing. It serves as a natural source of inspiration for me and, therefore, has become an integral part of the Maritime Collection.”

A resident of Amagansett for nearly 25 years, Yurman gets ideas from visiting art shows and galleries and exploring local vineyards. With an affinity for fine wines and antiques, Yurman began collecting a series of items over the years that helped shape each new collection. “The Waves Collection was influenced by the ancient Japanese art of print-making,” says Yurman. “But what fascinates me most is the physical labor that goes into the art of blacksmithing—texturing, forging and the manipulation of the metals. When I was apprenticing with a blacksmith, I learned first-hand the true craftsmanship involved.”

The Yurman family’s next project is a new limited edition timepiece series, Ancestrale, that pays homage to their heritage. The collection is expected to expand rapidly for a company already renowned for fine jewelry and eyewear. With so much on his plate, it seems necessary for Yurman to seek solace in the luxury of his tranquil beachside sanctuary. We wonder what collection it will inspire next? London Jewelers, 47 Main St., Southampton, 287-4499; Americana Manhasset, 2060 Northern Blvd., 516-627-1700; davidyurman.com