Ronald Winston announced his retirement today from his executive role at the world famous Harry Winston Inc., and his appointment as Honorary Chairman of the corporation. Mr. Winston is the son of the founder of the House of Harry Winston and has been the loyal steward of the brand since his father's death in 1978. Mr. Winston's decision will allow him to focus on his extensive AIDS medical research, an upcoming book project and raising his young son.

After 118 years of family tradition creating jewelry and watches, there will no longer be a Winston in the venerable diamond house that bears the family name. Ronald, who joined the company in 1965, followed in the tradition of his late father Harry Winston, who had learned the jewelry business from his father and later became known as the "King of Diamonds."

Under Ronald's leadership, the firm expanded from two stores into a global company with jewelry sales in the Far East and a significant watch business based in Switzerland. He understands the roots of this famous brand and will continue to provide advice to guide its future.

"It has been a thrill continuing my father's tradition and sharing the beauty of the finest gems for so many successful years," Winston said. "With the Harry Winston name in good hands for the future, it's the right time to focus on other passions such as my groundbreaking medical research and upcoming book project. I wish the company continued success."

Mr. Winston's retirement from the day-to-day activities of the jewelry business will allow him to focus on spending time with his family and working on several projects close to his heart. These include a book he is currently writing about the Winston's history called "King of Diamonds" and his work at The Institute for Human Genetics and Biochemistry, a private research foundation he founded thirty years ago. The Institute, which is affiliated with Mt. Sinai Medical Center and has its laboratory at Cabrini Medical Center, has made several breakthroughs towards a non-vaccine cure for AIDS.

Mr. Winston is 67 years old and lives in Scarsdale, NY with his wife and son.

SOURCE Harry Winston Inc.