When it comes to his timepieces, Jay-Z solely relies on selected dealers to source his prized possessions. Esteemed jeweler Alex Tedd shares the rapper’s dedication to quality and authenticity.

Through trusted dealers like Tony Kavak, Jay-Z finds the rarest gems, like the AP Royal Oak Quantième Perpétuel.  He has also been seen wearing the iconic Patek Philippe ref.2499 and other rare Patek perpetual calendars.

As Lionel Messi embarks on a new chapter with MLS’s Inter Miami CF, he continues to mesmerize both on and off the field. His watch of choice, a Patek Philippe Aquanaut Luce, exemplifies elegance and historical significance.

Adorned with a rainbow of sapphires around the bezel and jour makers, this timepiece also holds the distinction of being Patek’s first-ever automatic chronograph for women, reaffirming Messi’s impeccable taste.

Known for his eclectic style, Timothée Chalamet effortlessly dons the Cartier Panthère “mini” with unmatched charm. Though petite, this timepiece finds its perfect match on Chalamet’s wrist, exuding a fashion-forward appeal.

As Cartier continues to unveil outstanding mini versions, this watch is the epitome of classic style and sophistication, making it a favorite accessory for the acclaimed actor.

Emerging as a formidable force on the tennis court, Carlos Alcaraz’s meteoric rise is mirrored in his choice of wristwear. His Rolex Daytona features a dial crafted from an actual meteorite, a rare piece that adds an extraordinary touch to a classic style.

Despite not wearing a watch during matches, Alcaraz’s Rolex Oysterflex rubber band pays homage to his sport and showcases the perfect blend of style and functionality.

Brad Pitt’s love for Vacheron Constantin 222 remains clear, as he proudly sports another variation of this iconic watch in the photo below. As a symbol of timeless elegance, this timepiece captures the essence of Pitt’s versatile style, effortlessly elevating anything he wears.

As we admire these exceptional timepieces, we are reminded that watches are more than just accessories — they’re a testament to the art of horology and freedom of expression.

The addition of a deck to single-family homes, especially those with spacious yards, offers a desirable outdoor area for relaxation, dining, and entertaining. Despite differences in structural design, material, and functionality, constructing a deck is a smart way to enhance outdoor living space and provide practical use.

Most Common Deck Materials

Deck placement and location, along with building code requirements, play a role in determining a deck’s size, height, and features. Decks can be classified based on the material used in construction, which affects the deck’s durability, maintenance needs, and cost. Options for deck material include natural wood, treated lumber, and composite lumber, each requiring unique cleaning and maintenance methods. Understanding the different types of decks available is important.

Decks are classified based on the material used, with common options including wood, composite, PVC, concrete, stone, and aluminum. Natural wood is durable and feels good under bare feet but requires maintenance to prevent rot, splintering, and insect infestation. It needs to be washed and re-stained every two to three years. Different wood types include pressure-treated, cedar, redwood, bamboo, mahogany, and ipe. The ideal wood type depends on local weather and yard conditions. Pressure-treated wood is the most affordable, while high-end options like cedar and redwood cost more. Ipe is the most expensive but highly resistant to damage.

Stones Are Great for Decks

Composite decking is a mixture of plastic and wood fibers and offers an alternative to natural wood. Some composite boards contain wood fibers such as sawdust along with polyethylene plastic. This material is highly resistant to rot and wear and features unique, realistic wood grain patterns to mimic the look of natural wood. Composite can also be used for lattice or railing structures accompanying the deck. It is low maintenance, durable, slip- and water-resistant, and does not require weather-proofing or painting.

PVC is a synthetic material used for various applications, including pipes, wiring, and decks. It is 100% synthetic, stain and rot-resistant, and highly affordable. With no organic material, PVC decking is durable with minimal maintenance and resistant to water, mold, mildew, and insect damage. PVC is available in a variety of colors and, like composite, does not break down naturally.

Concrete and stone decks are the most durable but also the most expensive. Their longevity depends on the installation quality and environmental conditions, and the cost of installation varies based on the deck size and material. These materials are ideal for smaller, ground-level areas, as they blend well with the surrounding environment and increase property value. However, due to their weight, they are not suitable for raised or elevated structures.

Aluminum is a widely used alternative to wooden decks. It requires low maintenance and can last for many years without needing replacement. With various colors and styles available, aluminum can be tailored to match personal preferences. Additionally, it is fire-resistant and highly resistant to water damage, making it a suitable choice for areas prone to wildfires, hail storms, strong winds, or heavy rainfall.

Decks can also be classified based on their structural design. Some popular types include wrap-around, multi-level, attached, detached, rooftop, side yard, garage, swimming pool, entryway, and specialized-use decks.