Luxurious Magazine - Summer 2013 Edition

THE LANDMARK

HOTEL

ASTON MARTIN V8 VANTAGE ROADSTER

STEVE HUYTON'S TOP WATCHES OF 2013

ITALIAN LAUNCH OFHASSELBLAD LUNAR

For those that know what they want from lifetm

luxurious magazine

LE MANOIR AUXQUAT'SAISONS

YAZMINPINCHEN

THE LUXURY OFSOUTH AFRICA

®

ASTON MARTINGT4 CHALLENGE

www.luxuriousmagazine.comSUMMER EDITION 2013

JING TEA’S EDWARD EISLER

NIC FIDDIAN-GREEN

CELTIC MANOR

Honorary Ambassador for Hasselblad and Backes & Strauss

The Publisher

Dear Readers,

Welcome to the Summer edition of Luxurious Magazine, ngers crossed this will coincide with good weather and provide ample opportunity for both you and I to sample some of the season’s best outdoor activities. 20132013 has started incredibly well for us, we have ofcially partnered with Hasselblad, probably the world's most iconic high-end camera company, Aston Martin Racing and the GT4 Challenge of Great Britain, Backes & Strauss, the world's oldest diamond merchants and purveyors of luxury time pieces, signed an agreement with MSN for our articles to be syndicated on the MSN portals and I have undertaken honoraryhonorary ambassadorial roles for both Hasselblad and Backes & Strauss. These magnicent partnerships help to solidify our position as one of the global leaders within our industry. As the magazine is compiled and I see the images of what we will be featuring, I often feel a little jealous of what the editorial team get to experience. Being based on a small tropical island in Asia means that I am just to far away to undertake these things myself. I feel a little like Howard Hughes, a person known from a name or picture that people rarely get to meet! Therefore, in the immortal words of one of my teachers ‘Paul, youyou really must try harder’, I will be hosting more luxury travel shows and have decided to change my wardrobe for my on camera appearances. It is my intention for 2013 to not only bring back the Safari Suit but to make it fashionable!

Enjoy this edition!

Paul Godbold MIOJFounder of Luxurious Magazine

luxurious Magazine I Spring 2013

LUXURIOUS MAGAZINE OFFICIAL PARTNERS

Simon Wittenberg MIOJ Ong Chin Huat

Reena Patel

Simone Zefro

Simone is an award winning Italian photographer from a small city close to Milan. Eight years ago he ofcially started his artistic journey combining his own feelings, sensations and personal visions of what an image should be.

(Head Office)Luxurious Magazine5 St Johns LaneLondonEC1M 4BH

Tel: +44 (0)207 193 8380 [email protected]

AboutTheThe magazine was created by Paul Godbold, an entrepreneurial Englishman with a Malaysian heritage and a member of the Chartered Institute of Journalists. Originally, Luxurious Magazine® was pproduced solely as a website gaining a huge number of visitors worldwide whilst building strong relationships along the way with many of the premier luxury brands. Due to frequent requests, we ventured into the world of electronic digital publishing. This is proving to be incincredibly successful based on feedback from our partners and global readership.

AdvertisingLuxurious Magazine® operates differently to most publications. Advertising oppor-tunities are predominantly via invitation, however we do make exceptions in certain circumstances if the product or service being advertised is suitable for our publication. For further information email [email protected]. Rates can be found within our media pack on luxuriousmagazine.com.

General InformationNoNo part of this publication may be reproduced in any form without the prior written consent of the publisher. Views and opinions expressed in this publication are strictly those of the writers, photographers and contributors, and are not necessarily those of the publisher. Every effort has been taken to ensure the correctness andand accuracy in the material published in this electronic issue of Luxurious Magazine®.

The publisher and editorial staff accept no responsibility for any effect arising from errors. Whilst every effort has been made to trace and request permission to use copyright materials in this electronic magazine, this has been impossibleimpossible in some case. All copyrights are retained by their creators and originators and there is no intended infringement on those rights. Materials used in the magazine are solely for informational purposes. If notified, we will be pleased to rectify any omissions.

Born in the Grand Duchy of Luxembourg, and now based in London, Simon Wittenberg is the Editor of Luxurious Magazine . A specialist in the automotive sector, Simon has worked with some of the world's most iconic marques such asas Lotus Cars, Ferrari, and Tesla Motors. His passions include luxury goods, motorsport, and travel.

®

Reena is a health, beauty, gastronomy, luxury travel specialist. Reena’s frequent and well documented visits to the worlds most luxurious destinations and nest restaurants provide some of the most popular articles in the Magazine. In 2010, she was awarded thethe PRCA-PCG Freelancer of the Year Award.

EditorialLuxurious Magazine®

Although graduating from the London School of Economics with a law degree, Chin decided to pursue a career as a journalist. Having been the social editor of the Hong Kong Tatler and as well as writing a twice-weekly column in Hong Kong’s leading English-languageEnglish-language newspapers, the South China Morning Post, Chin has met and interviewed everyone from business tycoons and supermodels to movie stars, royalty and world class athletes.

LUXURIOUS MAGAZINE OFFICIAL PARTNERS

Sabi Phagura is a health, tness, travel and lifestyle journalist as well as a tness instructor with over 14 years experience in both the print and bbroadcasting media. She has written for The Sun, Sunday Mirror, Mail on Sunday, Daily Mail, The Guardian, Daily Mail, Daily Express, Daily Star, and The Metro.

©Lucas Cannistraci

Sabi Phagura

Steve Huyton

London-based since 2006, Eléonore is a photojournalist and multimedia pproducer uent in French, English and Spanish. Her projects vary widely from covering local news to documenting some of the world's daily struggles. Eléonore has worked on the Reuters picture desk and her photos have appeaappeared in the Guardian newspaper amongst other publications.

Eléonore de Bonneval

Paul Joseph

Cover ModelThis edition’s front cover features: British Showjumper Yasmin PinchenYasmin is shown wearing a Cavalleria Toscana technical unlined competition jacket.

Social Media (click icon for more)

ManagementFounder & Publisher: Paul Godbold MIOJEditor: Simon Wittenberg MIOJDeputy Editor: Ong Chin HuatCreative Director: Natasha GodboldAdveAdvertising Head: Pascale HaywardHead of Finance: Malcolm Gilbey MICMAudio / Music Producer - Steven North

Born in Shefeld England, and now residing in Adelaide, Steve Huyton is aa passionate watch journalist. This enthusiasm & his design background has culminated in the launch of a watch review website. Total Watch Reviews celebrates the exceptional design & innovation showcased in the world of horology.

Paul Joseph began his career in the niche world of luxury book publishing, helping produce lavish, limited-edition art books on subjects as diverse as Superyachts, New York and Pink Floyd. He has also authored a book on London and written for publications including The Independent newspapeincluding The Independent newspaper.

EditorialLuxurious Magazine®

Cavalleria Toscana technic piquet sleeveless competition shirt. RRP £110.00

Cavalleria Toscana technical polo competition shirt. RRP £110.00

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Cool Britannia - V8 Vantage

Our Cover Model - Yazmin Pinchen

The Art of Writing

Hasselblad Lunar Italian Launch

Steve Huyton’s 5 Best Watches

BMW Pininfarina Gran Lusso Coupé

Lamborghini Egoista

Aston Martin & Jaeger Le-Coultre

BMW Concept Ninety Motorbike

Aston Martin GT4 Challenge

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luxurious Magazine I Summer 2013

This editions cover model is Yazmin Pinchen, a British international showjumper recently selected to represent Great Britain.

Luxurious Magazine Publisher, Paul Godbold looks at some recently launched luxury writing implements.

Photographer, Simone Zefro attends the launch of the Hasselblad Lunar luxury camera in Milan, Italy.

Luxurious Magazine watch expert, Steve Huyton picks ve of his favourite watches launched so far this year.

With the BMW Pininfarina Gran Lusso Coupé, the two time-honoured companies are unveil the outcome of their rst collaboration.

The Lamborghini Egoista - An homage by Walter De Silva for Lamborghini's 50th Anniversary.

As the Global Luxury Media Partner of the GT4 Challenge, Simon Wittenberg and Eléonore de Bonneval go behind the scenes in the rst of an exclusive two-part feature.

Jaeger-LeCoultre and Aston Martin, Two legends driven by the spirit of innovation. We take a look at the decade long partnership between these two luxury brands.

The BMW Group presented a very special model at the Concorso d’Eleganza Villa d’Este 2013: the BMW Concept Ninety Motorbike.

Featured Articles

September may feel some way off for most of us, but behind the scenes, the superyacht world is busy preparing for the two key industry events of the year.

Luxurious Magazine Editor, Simon Wittenberg gets to road test the Aston Martin V8 Vantage.

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The Landmark London

Le Manoir Restaurant

Luxury in South Africa

Celtic Manor - Wales

Regeration in St. Lucia

Bad Ragaz - SwitzerlandWe visit the Grand Resort Bad Ragaz, a place where you can behold the magic of putting yourself back together again.

Sabi Phagura experiences rst-hand the delights of this ve-star property and the Winter Garden.

Paul Joseph samples the culinary genuis at Le Manoir aux Quat’Saisons – Raymond Blanc’s two michelin-starred country hotel and restaurant.

Editor, Simon Wittenberg undertakes an extraordinary luxury travel adventure around South Africa.

Reena Patel spends a luxury leisure weekend at the leading Welsh resort to have a go at golf and more.

Luxurious Magazine’s health and tness expert, Sabi Phagura, provides an insight into the BodyHoliday LeSport resort on the island of St Lucia in the Caribbean.

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Summer 2013 I luxurious Magazine

PEOPLE


Interviews

Joe Cloete

Vincent Géré Edward Eisler Nicholas Dean

Sophie Breitmeyer Mark DunhillJoe is the General Manager of the Shamwari Group running some of the most famous and luxurious travel destinations in South Africa.

Vincent is the Director of Rémy Martin Estates and Oenology.

Edward Eisler is the Founder And Owner Of JING Tea.

Nicholas is a joint Managing Partner and majority owner of OCEAN Independence, one of the world’s largest and fastest growing luxury yacht brokerage rms.

A London based jewellery designer making bespoke made to order pieces for private clients and acting as a consultant for bigger brands.

Mark was formerly the CEO of jeweller Fabergé and is now the International Director of T.M. Lewin.

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Enter The Winter Garden At The

By Sabi Phagura

One of the most popular ve star hotels in the capital, it has a distinctive style and ambience that sets it apart from many others. Arguably it’s the Winter Garden rrestaurant situated at the heart of the soaring eight-story glass roof atrium that gives it its unique character. The atmosphere and mood changes there depending on whether you’re having breakfast, lunch or dinner.

My rst experience of the unique surroundings of the restaurant was the evening meal just shortly after my arrival. The exquisite setting and relaxed atmosphere can almost become a pleasant distraction as you sit there and shake your head in disbelief that such a wonderful place can be situated in the heart of one of the busiest capitals in the world.

TheThe Winter Garden is a two AA Rosette eatery and has all the hallmarks of one. Hand dived scallops, Cornish crab lasagne, Terrine of Gressingham duck, and foie gras can all be found on the starter list while the mains consist of dishes like Aged Buccleuch llet steak, Chargrilled rack of Cotswold lamb and Twice baked British cheeses soufé.

IfIf you’re a dessert person, then you’re in luck. The portions are sizeable! There are all the traditional cakes and puddings on the list but the Sticky toffee pudding with butterscotch sauce and vanilla ice-cream caught my eye. The pudding could have easily been shared between two.

IF YOU'RE LOOKING FOR A PROPERTY THAT COMBINES CLASSIC BRITISH ELEGANCE WITH GRANDEUR, THEN ENTER THE LANDMARK LONDON HOTEL.




The waiters are extremely friendly and are happy for you to stay as long as possible without the need to rush. Just as well – thanks to the glass top roof, the restaurant transforms into an elegant idyllic atmosphere as you experienceexperience the natural transition from day to night. With an extensive wine and champagne list to choose from, you can continue enjoying the somewhat romantic setting over a bottle or two.

The exclusive Mirror Bar is another place to enjoy both pre-dinner cocktails and a late-night tipple. This bar is created in a style reminiscent of the hotel’s Victorian heritage,heritage, nished in a selection of decorative mirrors. Some of the most delicious spirited cocktails, best champagnes and cognacs are served here.

TheThe Landmark, situated across from Marleybone Station, boasts 300 guest rooms including 51 suites. The hotel is renowned for its spacious suites in London and it certainly lived up to its reputation. Indeed the Marylebone Studio I stayed in was generous in size featuring a beautiful living area that is separated from the bedroom by a chic open archway. All suites contains 42-inch digital at screen TVs withwith over 70 channels, Nespresso coffee machines and private bars.



And if you wanted to get away from all that eating and drinking, step inside the Landmark Spa and Health Club – you’ll be suspended in pure tranquillity where muscle ten-sion and the wandering mind’s worries will disappear. You can allow yourself to emerge refreshed, balanced and energised by choosing from a full range of exceptional treatments, massages and body car therapies.

So whether you’re a hotel guest or simply want to try one of their culinary delights, or even if it is merely to soak up the ambience with a drink or two, it’s an experience worth having, just to catch a glimpse of the Winter Garden.

www.landmarklondon.co.uk

The bathroom - like the living area space - is equally as spacious. With two basins, it felt like a ‘his and her’s’ personal bathroom. In fact, there is so much space in the studios, that you can’t help feeling you’re home from home. Furthermore, if you’ve got additional friends staying, the studio suites can be connected to a Superior guest room upon request.

HoweveHowever, you really do not have to stay in this property to take advantage of the facilities on offer. The hotel’s award winning Afternoon Tea is extremely popular with those wishing to enjoy a leisurely afternoon. One of England’s nest traditions means you can indulge in an array of sandwiches, French pastries and freshly baked scones. And if you really can’t say no to chocolate, you can treat yourselfyourself to a selection of delights with the Chocolate Afternoon Tea option. But for the ultimate treat, the Taittinger Champagne Afternoon Tea is a must.

The Gazebo, located underneath the eight storey glass atrium is the perfect venue for business meetings or a quick bite to eat. With plenty of comfortable seating, it’s an ideal location to have informal meetings and take advantage of the space’s Wi-Fi access. The Gazebo is also perfect for small wedding receptions, leaving drinks or small celebrations.


Luxurious Magazine Editor, Simon Wittenberg gets to put the Aston Martin V8 Vantage Roadster through its paces.

Cool Britannia


Photography by Eléonore de Bonneval / Aston Martin


Simon Wittenberg (MIOJ), the Editor of Luxurious Magazine.


Technology and creative air have since moved on signicantly and so has the competition. It was therefore time to up both the power and comfort stakes, and what better place to start than with the 2012 model year Aston Martin V8 Vantage Roadster.

The Vantage, which prides itself on a philosophy of ‘e‘effortless and exploitable performance’ is the smallest model in Aston Martin’s current line-up (excluding of course the Cygnet), and was rst shown to the world as a coupé at the Geneva Motor Show in 2005. A year later at the LA Auto Show in the USA, the 4.3-litre 380 bhp convertible was introduced carrying the ‘Roadster’ monikermoniker (as opposed to ‘Volante’), and over time, other variants have since sprouted from the Vantage platform including the race car used in the GT4 Challenge of Great Britain series and the more potent V12 family.

The 2012 model year is the latest incarnation of the hand -built Vantage Roadster which has received a host of styling and performance upgrades relative to its predecessor.

HE LAST TIME I DROVE A V8 WAS A FERRARI 348 TB, A MACHINE DEVELOPED IN THE EARLY 1990s BY THE PRANCING HORSE IN MARANELLO. T

These include wider wheels and tyres (now 19-inch) in additionaddition to large two-piece front brake discs and six-piston calipers. Nevertheless, what has remained the same with the drop-top is namely the bonded aluminium and magnesium alloy composite structure as well as the aggres-sive stance and beautifully-crafted sweeping prole which make this particular car a true object of desire and elegance.



So what is it like to drive? Today’s Vantage Roadster is powered by a naturally-aspirated lightweight and compact 420 hp 4.7-litre V8 engine which is assembled by hand at Aston Martin’s purpose-built facility in Cologne, Germany. Mounted as far down and back in the chassis as possible for a low centre of gravity, this magnicent powerhouse is brought to life by inserting a £1,000 crystal-capped cartridge-likecartridge-like keyfob into the centre of the front console.

As you hit the throttle and make your way up the six -speed manual gearbox, the performance can only be described as mind-blowingly fast, and 62 mph is reached in the blink on eye which translates mathematically into just under ve seconds. It’s not just the acceleration that brings the senses alive but the soundtrack emanating from the twin exhausts that goes with it. It is truly sublime and you can’t help just wanting to keep gunning for more. Retract the fabric roof and the raw growl can be enjoyed inin all its glory. Handling whilst either cruising on the main roads or hugging the sweeping bends of country lanes is good and the suspension is rm, but not intrusive.

The cabin is awash with sumptuous leather accentuated by delicate white stitching, and as you sink into the low-slung driving seat, you are invited to admire the exquisitely-sculpted bonnet which is a true work of art.

The attention to detail within the interior is remarkable with several hints of chrome which extend right down to the Lamy writing instrument that can be released from the base of the front fascia at the push of a nger. The hand-brake has been relocated to the right of the driver giving way to an elevated armrest and a centre console which has a ceramic-like nish.

Specication at a glance:

Top speed: 180 mph / 290 km/h 0 - 62 mph: 4.9 secondsEngine capacity: 4,735 cc Max. Power @ rpm: 420 bhp @ 7,300Price as tested: £99,550.00

The comprehensive 160W in-car entertainment package boasts a 6-CD autochanger and integrated Apple iPod connector, and the satellite navigation display, which rises to the left of the instrument binnacle, is not the most sophisticatedsophisticated on the market today, but is nevertheless user-friendly. The small screen equally doubles up as the reversing camera when this particular option is specied. Other extras on the car we tested apart from the satellite navigation, were namely heated seats, rear clear lamps, front parking sensors and cruise control which bumps up the on the road price of the V8 Vantage Roadster to just shyshy of £100,000. This puts the Aston Martin in the same bracket as the 4.2-litre Audi R8 Spyder or Porsche 911 Carrera Cabriolet, but this is after all a car where the premium for a convertible is denitely worth paying. To arrange a test drive or to nd out more about the Aston Martin range, visit www.astonmartin.com.


The MB&F MegaWindThe iconic HM3 is back and in stunning shape! The automatic mechanical movement, developed on a Sowind base by Jean-Marc Wiederrecht, the horological wizard of Agenhor (Atelier Genevois d'Horlogerie), has been turned upside down so that the massive oscillating weight is wellwell and truly visible on the dial side. This technically challenging solution keeps the rotor's hypnotic movement permanently in view. It also brings an additional dimension to a timepiece that already has acionados in awe, whether for its architecture or the innovative way it shows time on two rotating cones. These are in aluminium, pprotected by a sapphire crystal. The cone on the left shows hours while its counterpart on the right displays minutes. Producing the cones is yet another feat of technique as minimising their weight means they are machined directly from a block of aluminium.

Watch Tidbits Hublot Big Bang Caviar Red Gold DiamondsBased on the unique, iconic design of the famous One Million $ Black Caviar, and directly inspired by the black ceramic Big Bang Black Caviar which has been one of thethe brand's best sellers since 2011, this watch boasts an elegantly perfect diameter of 41mm, a sleek graphic look with sharp angles and reliefs designed, cut, bevelled and polished like its big sister's black baguette diamonds. Fitted with the HUB1112 self-winding mechanical movementmovement and incorporating a date window at 3 o'clock, the new 5N red gold Big Bang Caviar, features a bezel set with 36 diamonds, a power reserve of 42 hours,and is water-resistant to 10 Bar, equivalent to 100 metres.



Chopard L.U.C. Engine One HTheThe proprietary tourbillon movement, which takes its nish from car engines, maintains a steady 480 revs per minute or 28,800 vibrations per hour. The barrel lls the tank with a full 60 hours of power reserve. The horizontal grooves in the bridges on the dial side take their cue from cylinder heads. Hours and minutes are centrally displayed whereas power reserve is shown on the left, on an indicator that readsreads like a fuel gauge. On the right, small seconds are mounted on the tourbillon, like a rev counter. The ve rows of top-stitching on the alligator strap have the look and feel of 1960s and 70s car upholstery. The L.U.C Engine One H delivers further proof of Chopard's dedication to car racing and its values of enjoyment and performance. Produced as a 100-piece limited series.

Spero Lucem La ClémenceWWith the DB16, De Bethune celebrates classic Fine Watchmaking in a ballet of complications. The architecture of the DB2509 calibre is built around a silicon and titanium tourbillon beating at 36,000 vib/h, one of the fastest and lightest on the market. This movement also drives a power indicator, seconds, as well as a retrograde display of thethe age of the moon. Hidden on the back of the watch, this masterpiece will surprise connoisseurs looking for subtle details. The classically understated dial thus provides readings of the perpetual calendar and spherical moon-phase indications, sublimated by the Manufacture’s signature silver-toned guilloché motif. The steady, rhythmicalrhythmical beat of the jumping seconds embodies the very essence of the horological emotions procured by this stunning creation.

Spero Lucem La ClémenceFirmlyFirmly anchored in the Eaux-Vives district of Geneva, a stone’s throw from Lake Léman and its famous Jet d’eau, the Spero Lucem brand has been created through a rare association of horological competencies. Yvan Arpa has orchestrated a sincere tribute to his home town and has named the brand’s rst model, a minute repeater “La Clémence” – after one of the bells on Geneva’s cathedral. EquippedEquipped with a tourbillon with a carriage performing one turn per minute, this exceptional model houses a third and unprecedented complication in the shape of hands which “go crazy” when the striking mechanism is activated. Everything is done to ensure a complete focus on the sound, but suddenly the visual magic takes over once more and the hands return to their correct place.

Breitling Emergency IIBBreitling once again plays a pioneering role in the eld of technical watches and instruments for professionals by creating the Emergency II, the very rst wristwatch equipped with an authentic dual frequency distress beacon. This miniaturised high-tech marvel is equipped with a microtransmitter alternately using two separate ffrequencies over a 24-hour period – in compliance with Cospas-Sarsat specications – and serving both to signal the alert and to guide search and rescue operations.

de Grisogono Tondo By Night dede Grisogono keeps on turning heads with its new Tondo By Night collection whose three new models adopt the vivid colours of blue, red and green. The rened art of gemsetting subtly accompanies the technical sophistica-tion of a nely crafted mechanical calibre whose gemset oscillating weight is visible on the dial side. In the same fundamental palette of colours, the 48 precious stones thatthat adorn the bezel and the 60 gems on the inverted oscillating weight give a sparkling, joyful air to this brightly original trio. The black diamond on the crown, the ga-luchat strap and the powerful Tondo case add the nishing touches to this collection in pure de Grisogono style.

Patek Philippe Réf. 5200 Gondolo 8 Days, Day & Date IndicationThe new Patek Philippe reference is sure to delight devotees of mechanical hand-wound horology. The Gondolo 8 Days, Day & Date Indication is inspired by the legendary 5100 unveiled to mark the turn of the millennium.millennium. Its younger sister now appears with a set of ne innovations, including its rectangular calibre and its Silinvar® components, as well as the instant day & date indication – all tted within the same 5.05 mm thickness. The white gold case adapts to the mechanism inside and now features an almost 47 mm mechanism. Its double anks strengthen the architecture without overburdening it andand celebrate the Art Deco style. Finally, the midnight blue dial – or its silver-toned white counterpart – host twin-facetted white gold baton-type hour-markers creating an imposing yet rened relief effect.



Urwerk UR-210 AITiNUrwerkUrwerk makes the most of the latest technical break-throughs in offering new developments – starting with the AlTiN alloy from which the caseband is made – a group of hard coatings composed of Aluminium, Titanium and Nitride. But the UR-210 is above all revolutionary because of its device located at 11 o’clock – an indicator of the winding efciency during the last two hours of wear. It is thus up to the owner to handle its power reserve: by setting the winding regulator (on the caseback) to “Full” so that the rotor converts each gesture into pure energy; to “Reduced” if the winding is too intense; or to “Stop” for manual winding. Back on the front side, the satellite complication with retrograde minutes is as original and visually amazing as ever.

UURWERK was born from a meeting in 1995 between Felix Baumgartner and his brother (both watchmakers) and Martin Frei, a talented artist and designer.

A new peak for English Watchmaking! Christopher Ward Watches tests C11 Makaira Pro 500 at 5000M and -20C.TheThe Christopher Ward watch company was founded on a boat on the River Thames in 2004 by Mike France, Chris Ward and Peter Ellis. From the start this has always been about nding a way for everyone to enjoy the truly visceral pleasure derived from owning and wearing a premium quality Swiss made watch. The company recently announced it will be sponsoring a remarkable team ofof young British mountaineers who are setting out on a journey to tackle a number of un-ascended peaks in Tajikistan. Should the highly challenging Silk Road Tajikistan Expedition 2013 be successful, a newly conquered peak will be ofcially named ‘Mount Christopher Ward’.

TheThe team, led by Struan Chisholm, a 20-year-old student at Cambridge University, will set out from Inverness in early July on a 7000+ miles round trip to reach the remote Rog Valley of central Tajikistan - a range that has probably seen less human presence than the moon. Their rst rest point will be a visit to the Christopher Ward HQ in Maidenhead, near London. With plans to attempt multi-day ascents ofof a number of signicant unclimbed peaks (around 5,0005,000 metres) the expedition schedule anticipates that, subject to weather conditions on the mountains, the main climbing phase will be from around 19 July and the base camp will be dismantled by the end of the rst week of August. As lead sponsor of the expedition, Christopher Ward will monitor the expedition’s progress through mobile updates and will post details on the company web-site and also via social media channels and email. site and also via social media channels and email.

Yazmin Pinchenyear-old Yazmin Pinchen is a British international showjumper and was recently selected to represent Great Britain in her rst Senior

Nations Cup in Abu Dhabi. She is sponsored by the equestrian clothing marques Cavalleria Toscana and Kep Italia.

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Credits: Photography by Chloe Bowman (www.chloebowman.co.uk)Hair and makeup by Natasha BowmanCavalleria Toscana: www.cavalleriatoscana.it


LM: What have been your career highlights to date?YP:YP: It all started with children on horses when we won team gold and I achieved individual silver for Great Britain. From this achievement, I knew I wanted to pursue my career and go on to win more medals! I did nation cups representing my country for ponies, junior and young riders, recently winning team gold in Deauville, France!

II was lucky enough last year to get the chance to compete in a 5* Global Champions Tour nal in Abu Dhabi. Normally for my age group we are jumping 2*, but I decided to be courageous and try a 5*! It went extremely well for me resulting in a selection for my rst ever senior nation cup team also being 5*. I am the youngest British rider to do this, and therefore I was extremely overwhelmed.



LM: What are your aspirations for this year?YP: My aspirations for this year are to jump on another senior nation cup team, get my name around the 5* circuit and compete at the Longines Global Champions Tour. The best thing about the globals are the locations; Monte Carlo, London, Cannes, Shanghai to name but a few…


Cavalleria Toscana technical polo competition shirt. RRP £110.00

LM: What are your biggest luxuries in life?YP: I am very lucky to do what I am doing. Without my parents, I really would not be doing this so I owe them everything!! They are so supportive and my sister really encouragesencourages me! This for me is a luxury in life - having this lifestyle, getting to travel the world and have my family by my side supporting me. As we are such a close family, we do a lot together so going on amazing vacations is a great luxury and it is nice to have some time off occasionally! I could also not be able to do this without my fantastic sponsors; Cavalleria Toscana and Four Seasons equestrian who supply me with unique Italian sportsweawho supply me with unique Italian sportswear.


LM: What is your ultimate goal in showjumping?YP: It is of course the Olympics!!! Being in the top 10 riders in the world before I'm 25 would be incredible!! I like to aim high and give myself a challenge.

LM: What do you do to relax?YP: I love relaxing and not having to worry about anything!!! II am based in Belgium so either hanging out with my two best friends Evy and Charlotte who also ride, or when I come home my sister, my mum and I like to sit in bed with ice cream and sweets and watch a movie! If I'm alone, I will watch my favourite TV show '90210' or listen to music. I also love to cook and bake cakes in my spare time.

Cavalleria Toscana technical unlined competition jacket.RRP £385.00


Cavalleria Toscana technical unlined competition jacket / RRP £385.00 and bespoke fully functional hand-made riding whip with crystal embellishment available from Four Seasons Equestrian / RRP £245.00

LM: Do you have any favourite luxury travel destinations?YP:YP: I love holidays so much and seeing the world!!! Thailand was my favourite destination so far. It was so beautiful and the islands were amazing. I would denitely go back there one day. Barbados is another great place, and there are so many countries I love going to. I spend winter In Abu Dhabi with the horses and it's so great there, such lovely people and great weather!! If only we could travel everyday to places like this!! travel everyday to places like this!!


GessatoPied de Poule

The art behind writingBespoke is the latest collection of precision writing instruments from Edelberg.

Based on Edelberg’s Tachys model, each Bespoke pen is designed by Luca Roccaforte, and painstakingly handcrafted in black resin. The pen is then adorned with the fabric pattern designs, which are applied using aerographic techniques. The Bespoke measures 14.9cm (5.9 inches) in length, offering a substantial, but not overwhelming size.

FashionFashion comes and goes, but the classic look and feel of the Bespoke collection is anything but “à la mode”. Like the fabric of a classic, well-cut suit, Edelberg’s Bespoke offers elegant options to help you best express yourself. This rst collection (2013) Edelberg is offering Gessato (Pinstripe) and Pied de Poule (Houndstooth). Each year Edelberg will offer a new pattern, ensuring that these beautiful writing instruments are only available in limited quantities.

AAvailable from September 2013

VAILABLE IN GESSATO (PINSTRIPE) OR PIED DE POULE (HOUNDSTOOTH), THE BESPOKE IS OFFERED IN BOTH ROLLER BALL AND FOUNTAIN PEN VERSIONS.A



It seems tting that one of the world’s foremost manufacturers of luxury writing implements, Montegrappa, the company that created the worlds most expensive pen, has now launched the latest edition of their 'Icons' series, an homage to Elvis Presley. The Elvis Presley pens, in conjunction with Elvis Presley Enterprises, is the latest collection within the Montegrappa Icons Series which pays tribute to global icons, peoplepeople that have achieved global fame. Previous members of the 'Icons series' have included Bruce Lee, Muhammad Ali and Frank Sinatra.

t's not often that we get to feature the late King of Rock and Roll in Luxurious Magazine even though Elvis was a well known fan of luxurious things having been the owner of a gold Midas watch and many magnicent jewelled pieces.I

Montegrappa Icons:

For 2013 Montegrappa celebrates probably the most iconic of all entertainers, a man that broke down boundaries, achieved true global fame and transformed music and fashion from the 50s though to the 70s.

TheThe models within the collection, represent different phases of the King of Rock and Rolls Career. The reason behind there being four also harks back to the 'Million Dollar Quartet' comprising of Elvis, Johnny Cash, Jerry Lee Lewis and Carl Perkins who met up for one day in 1956, the date was ttingly the 4th of December.

The Elvis Pen variations have a resin body colour that corcorrespond to important periods of Elvis' life, each with sliver or gold accents. The four models are Aqua representing the 1950s, Green for his time in the US Army, Black for his 1968 'Comeback Special' and White to represent the iconic jumpsuits he wore on stage.

www.montegrappa.com

Clearly, only an equally remarkable maestro could join such august company. The third ‘creative genius’ in Montegrappa’s roster of peerless artists is Salvador Dalí.

A visionary who personied surrealism, he was also a writer, lmmaker and designer – truly the 20th Century equivalent of a ‘Renaissance Man’.

MontegrappaMontegrappa will issue only 1000 sterling silver fountain pens and 989 rollerball pens, denoting 1989 – the year that Dalí died. 19 solid gold rollerball pens and 61 fountain pens will represent the year he created the 1961 jewellery, The Space Elephant.

TheThe pens are packaged, appropriately, in an egg-shaped container, in recognition of another Dalíesque image. For the artist, the egg symbolised hope and love.

The subjects of the writing instruments in the Genio Creativo series are as exceptional as the oysters that deliver perfect pearls, or the harvests that yield cases of Masseto. With criteria so restrictive, Genio Creativo has honoured to date only two individuals: the greatest of all luthiers, Antonio Stradivari (in 2007), and the remarkable painter and sculptor, Amedeo Modigliani (in 2008).

ew are the intellectual giants who qualify for recognition in Montegrappa’s most exclusive range of pens.F

Genio Creativo Penin honour ofSalvador Dali


W


innovative designer of luxury pens, Jack Row. It was a difcult choice as to which of his collections to feature, the Jaali and Architect are both exquisite and made the nal, the choice came down to an internal vote and the Jaali Collection won... by a whisker.

Inspired by the fascinating intricacy of Islamic art, 'Jaali’ is an exclusive collection of luxury, limited edition writing instrumentsinstruments and cufinks designed for those who desire the ultimate in luxury with a twist of arabesque colour and style. Each contemporary piece echoes the intricate ligree found in 'Jaali' latticed screens, prominent in Mughal Indian architecture and is individually crafted in Great Britain from solid silver and gold and studded with precious brilliant-cut petrol blue diamonds.

EachEach writing instrument is accompanied by a stunning solid oak presentation case and desk display stand making the perfect gift for the person who has everything.

www.jackrow.com

e couldn't put a writing implement feature together without including Great Britain's most

"As a British craftsperson and designer, my foremost aim is to produce innovative, beautiful and extraordinary products, which are of the uppermost quality in both materials and design. I take great pride in the knowledge that the pieces I design and make will be valued as works of art, as muchmuch as functional items, to be passed down from generation to generation."

Photography by Simone Zefro

www.hasselblad-lunar.com

Simone Zefro attends launchof Hasselblad Lunar in Italy


The Diamond Tower in Milan was the perfect location for the ofcial launch of Hasselblad's eagerly-awaited Lunar camera in Italy.

NothingNothing was left to chance, and every detail was scrutinised to create the right ambiance for this very special occasion. The pure white setting, the candid dressing of the tables, the wonderful architecture of the tower and the special menu were just some of the highlights. The attention to detail in this set-up was an excellent reminder as to why Hasselblad was the company chosen by NASA to go to the Moon.

HasselbladHasselblad are Luxurious Magazine’s global partner for photography and lm and I had the great honour and pleasure of being invited by Hasselblad as the ofcial representative of Luxurious Magazine to this special and unique event.

The evening opened with cocktails followed by the ppresentation of the Lunar. Hasselblad CEO Dr. Larry Hansen, International Sales Director Michele Channer and the New Business Development Director Mr. Luca Alessandrini engaged and impressed the invited guests, explaining the concept and technical characteristics of the Lunar Camera.



One of the original Hasselbald cameras that went to the moon is shown in the middle

Dr. Larry Hansen, Chairman and CEO of Hasselblad

Not wanting to miss any opportunities, I grabbed the chance to take some pictures with the new Lunar, looking to explore the capabilities of the camera having only read the words that had been written about it prior to the launch. Since I’m Italian, I decided to literally 'get to grips' with the wonderful feeling of the Italian leather on the new model, nding it beautiful, extremely comfortable and easy toto handle. Another thing that really surprised me is the stabilisation system inside the viewnder that allowed a fast and detailed control of the horizon, a feature which proves particularly useful for landscapes.

The Lunar has a high ISO value and a medium shutter time, an area where other high level cameras usually fall down, I was also very impressed by the 24 MP sensor. The new Lunar provided me with some excellent photographs, and I found it to be not just beautiful to look at, but equally as capable.

DuringDuring the company's illustrious history, Hasselblad has paid particular attention to the smallest of details and nature of components ensuring not only high quality images but also excellent durability. A wonderful nal touch of luxury on the Lunar was Hasselblad's decision to use a synthetic ruby instead of a standard plastic button to start and stop HD video recording.

InIn spite of all the amazing moments that made this such a unique and wonderful event to attend, my greatest memory was when I held the new Lunar with my own hands. My ultimate dream would be to come face-to-face with one of the original and iconic Hasselblad cameras that went to the moon.


Nic Fiddian-Green

Heads Above The Rest

A 15ft ‘Trojan Head’ in Copper will be on display in London as part of his exhibition in June and July and his miniature bronze ‘Still Water’ will add a touch of panache to Aston Martin’s centenary celebrations. Flecked in gold leaf, it will be in keeping with the James Bond theme for this milestone anniversary.

esmerising sculptures, standing beautiful and proud are Nic Fiddian-Green’s forte and with his new work he is set to capture the public’s attention again this summer. MMHeads Above The Rest

A 15ft ‘Trojan Head’ in Copper will be on display in London as part of his exhibition in June and July and his miniature bronze ‘Still Water’ will add a touch of panache to Aston Martin’s centenary celebrations. Flecked in gold leaf, it will be in keeping with the James Bond theme for this milestone anniversary.

esmerising sculptures, standing beautiful and proud are Nic Fiddian-Green’s forte and with his new work he is set to capture the public’s attention again this summer. M




Nic, one of the UK’s most exciting and innovative sculptors is well known for his monumental works such as his colossal 35 ft ‘Still Water’, the head of a horse at Marble Arch in London. It was while Nic was a student studying sculpture that he saw the 5th century BC Horse of Selene, from the Parthenon at the British Museum and this sparked his lifelong obsession with sculpting the horse’s head.

HisHis works all capture the spirit, beauty and majesty of the horse with compelling power and fascination. His work is in demand by collectors and galleries alike and he exhibits around the world in public places, such as at Royal Ascot, Goodwood, Philidelphia and Deauville racecourses as well as in the grounds of many grand English houses. Celebrities who are drawn to his work include JK Rowling, Tom Cruise and Russell CTom Cruise and Russell Crowe.

From his workshop in rural England where he has worked for the last 25 years in a converted sheep shearing shed on an isolated windswept hill, Nic creates his monumental works of art from clay and plaster. He has mastered the ancient ‘lost wax’ technique and carries out this process of casting in bronze himself, he then patinas or colours the piece and with his meticulous methods, skills and craftsmanship brings character and life to his works that are so admired and collected. His love, patience and dedication are widely accepted and few artists are as committed to every part of the elaborate procedure.

As well as working in clay and plaster, he carves in marble, beaten lead and copper and in turn his work is cast in bronze.

www.nicddiangreen.com


Superyacht of the Season:

J'AdeCRN, a brand of the Ferretti Group, has unveiled the completed interiors of the 60-metre J’Ade, the world’s rst mega yacht to feature a oating garage.

ManufactuManufactured for a billionaire owner, J’Ade has been designed to feel at one with the sea, featuring special full height windows providing exceptionally wide pan-oramic views. This is combined with a beach club, a stern hatch that turns into a large platform by the water, and the highly innovative ‘ooded garage’, where the owner can store and easily access the 8-met8-metre Riva Iseo Yacht without the need for a tender lift.




J’Ade can comfortably host the whole extended family, with room for 10 guests and 13 crew members. The mega yacht has a top speed of 16 knots and can make the Trans-Atlantic journey, giving easy access to both Europe and the Americas.

HullHull number 125 of the Shipyard, and made of steel and aluminium, J’Ade has an overall length of 60 metres and a maximum beam of 10.2 metres. With four decks and a sub deck, the megayacht can comfortably host ten people – distributed in four guest cabins and a master suite – and thirteen crew members.

The interior style is classic and modern, elegant and rrened, with a fusion of materials including wood, leather, marble and metals. Canaletto walnut and polished rose-wood are particularly prevalent, with hardwood oors made of wide Afromosia strips and white Tai Ping tted carpets. As the name suggests, the colour ‘jade’ is accented in different shades throughout the yacht’s décor.

The internal layout was designed by Studio Zuccon International Project, in close collaboration with the CRN Technical Ofce. The interior was overseen by Studio Zuccon and CRN Centro Stile, who worked closely with the owner. An audio/video entertainement system was developed by CRN in collaboration with Videoworks, allowingallowing complete control from an iPad, and water, salt

and weather-proof televisions are used throughout the yacht.

Seen for the rst time aboard a yacht, the oodable garage on the lower deck is an innovative engineering solution created by the CRN Shipyard. Operated hydrauli-cally, the garage can dry out in 3 minutes and is lit by underwater lights for a dramatic effect. Next to the oating garage, which can also be used as a swimming pool, is the beach club. A stern hatch that turns into a large platform by the sea, the beach clubs offers a sunny terrace and allows safe and easy access into the ocean.

The main salon features a bar area made of green marble and rosewood with a stunning backdrop of a large aquarium. Furniture throughout the salon is made by Baxter, and uses nabuk leather in browns and beiges and white travertine marble. Instead of a traditional dining area, the owner requested an area devoted to music; a white Yamaha piano sits among backlit white pergmena col-umns.umns.

The glamorous owner’s suite features a balcony, furniture clad with white-silver nuance coconut leather by Fendi Club House Italia, a silk carpet and textiles and curtains made of cashmere by Loro Piana. The adjacent bathroom, furnished with Afyon and Emperador dark marble, fea-tures an anti-steam mirror concealing a television, cust-omised petal-shaped washbasins and an oval bathtub by Bof.

The upper deck comprises an outdoor dining table for 14 people, complete with a rotating servant. Indoors, a custom-made dining table made of polished rosewood and brown galuchat leather can also seat 14 people.

The lounge houses two large sofas by Minotti as well as a Swarovski chandelier. The sun deck has a helipad and spa pool surrounded by sun beds.

Indoors, a wellness area is complete with a oor-to-ceiling green Sicis mosaics Turkish bath and a gym.

The two MTU 12 V 4000 M 63 1500 kW @1800 rpm engines allow the vessel to reach a maximum speed of 16 knots and a cruising velocity of 14 knots.


A World Class Country Hotel and Dining Experience.

michelin-starred country hotel and restaurant in Great Milton, Oxfordshire – are a delight to be behold at any time of year.

But strike it lucky with the weather, and it achieves an almost transcendental perfectness.

The genteel, picture-postcard surroundings of Le Manoir aux Quat’Saisons – Raymond Blanc’s two




curtained-off sleeping area, where at the press of a button a television emerges from the ceiling overlooking the super-sized bed. To the left of the bed is the bathroom, complete with its own steam cubicle and LCD television, and a walk-in rain shower large enough to t Le Manoir’s entire roster of staff in one go.

Such was our good fortune for our visit that, as we drove through the Le Manoir front gates, the late spring sunshine was beaming down on the pristine grounds of one of the UK’s most feted hotel and dining institutions.

After brief formalities at reception, we were given a compcomprehensive tour of the grand old 15th century house and its various nooks and crannies (not to mention its vast garden, of which more later) before being shown to our sleeping quarters where our luggage was waiting for us.

HavingHaving dined at Le Manoir once before, we knew that its standing as the culinary agship of the Blanc empire was well-deserved. Now we were intrigued to discover whether it also reached similar heights as a place to stay.

OurOur room for the night went by the name of JADE, one of an assortment of contemporary suites bordering a pretty courtyard, each with its own distinct aesthetic avour. We learned that JADE had been inspired by Raymond Blanc’s travels across Southeast Asia, and there are several nods to the Orient including grass-paper wall coverings, a bamboo-effect ceiling, fabrics in shades of lime, grass and jade, and an imitation bonsai tjade, and an imitation bonsai tree.

A spacious sitting room boasting dining and coffee tables, sofa and electric replace ascends to a dramatic



With dinner still two hours away, we could not resist sampling some of the gastro treats dotted around the room, including a delicious fruit platter, a tray of lip-smacking petit fours, a bowl of sugared almonds, and a bottle of Madeira wine – small touches that accumulatively prompted us to agree that this was the best hotel room we had ever stayed in. Even if the very particular visual style is not to your taste, youyou cannot help but be impressed by the attention to detail, all the way down to the Le Manoir logo hand-drawn into the sand of an outdoor ashtray.

With time ticking on, and aware that a swift departure the next morning would deny us any further exploration, we took a stroll around the grounds. Comprising a lush two-acre vegetable and herb garden, an immaculate croquet lawn, an English Water Garden, and a tea house, it is a remarkable operation. Indeed, at time of writing, the gardens which boast over 90 varieties of vegetable and 70 types of herb, all transported directly to the Le Manoir kitchen and then onto your plate, are currently part of a major drive by Raymond Blanc to encourage horticulture across the UK.

A quick game of croquet (like so many sports relying on hand-eye co-ordination, harder than it looks) gave the appetiteappetite a gentle nudge and we made our way to the communal living room, where dinner guests are furnished with a glass of champagne, a tray of amuse-bouches, a food menu and a wine list.


For dinner, guests can choose a 6 or 9-course Tasting Menu (smaller menus are available for lunch), or a la carte options for the less intrepid. We opted for the full 9-course Menu Découverte and were shown into the dining room.

We had been told in advance that the great man, Monsieur Blanc, would be dining amongst us that night as part of his preparations for the following day’s event showcasingshowcasing food for guests from Relais & Châteaux, the prestigious collection of luxury hotels and restaurants of which Le Manoir is a member. This lent an extra frisson of excitement to proceedings as we took our seats.

TheThe meal was sublime; every course a testament to the skill and creativity of the kitchen, composed of ingredients of the very highest quality, and all beautifully balanced. Stand-out dishes included a ceviche of scallops and oyster, yuzu granite, turnip and radish, a terrine of baby beetroot and horseradish sorbet, and a roasted loin of Shropshire venison, chicory, celeriac and Grand Veneur sauce.sauce. The venison was one of those rare dishes that you are destined to remember forever, delivering a texture and avour that was out of this world.


So good was the food that it is tempting to continue waxing lyrical about it without mentioning the other star performer: the staff. The great balancing act in establishments of this quality is between politeness and obsequiousness, and at Le Manoir they strike it with grace, humour and tact. Indeed, one of the great pleasures of the meal was the conversations with staff between courses, leading toto the intriguing discovery that the waiter charged with serving our cheese did not, in fact, like cheese. It should be noted that this did not prevent him from exhibiting an exhaustive knowledge of the subject matter.

As the meal came to a close, the man himself made an appearance,appearance, approaching each table and engaging diners in conversation. When our turn came, we asked him how the venison achieved such an incredible texture, but like a magician reluctant to reveal his tricks, he merely nodded and said, “It’s a great dish”.

Retiring to the lounge for an espresso and petit fours, we posited the idea that Le Manoir has taken this kind of experienceexperience to its very limits. To imitators the world over, it is a salutary lesson in what can be achieved when you combine talent and passion. Because what they do at Le Manoir cannot be faked. And just when we thought it couldn’t get any better, we remembered JADE.

Wine & Dine with The Raymond Blanc Cookery SchoolForFor a tantalising and enlightening evening with family, friends or colleagues, book our Wine & Dine package:

Wine Tasting Enter the wine cellars of Le Manoir and enjoy specially selected wines, while our Sommelier helps you hone your wine-tasting skills

Cookery Demonstration ChampagneChampagne and canapés welcome you to The Raymond Blanc Cookery School as your tutor takes you on a culinary journey through demonstrations and hands-on tuition.

Four-course Dinner Savour a convivial dinner with accompanying wines at the School, followed by coffee and petits fours.

AsAs a memento of your evening you will all receive the recipes you enjoyed and a Raymond Blanc Cookery School chef’s jacket.

Price for a maximum of 8 guests: • Sunday to Thursday - £2,000• Friday or Saturday - £3,000

ForFor more information or to book, please call 0184 427 8881 or email [email protected] and mention 'Wine and Dine with The Raymond Blanc Cookery School'.

By Paul Joseph


Ressence Type 3ThisThis incredible futuristic looking watch is the creation of the dynamic Benoît Mintiens. Drawing on his industrial design background experience he established the brand Ressence in 2009. The name apparently is an amalgamation of the words renaissance and essence. The TypeType 3 is the company’s second model. Fundamentally the watch is a functioning prototype due to go into production in September. The amazing appearance of this watch was organically derived from the smooth lines of a pebble. Ultimately this fabulous timepiece combines the complexitycomplexity of a sophisticated mechanical movement with a uid lled dial. The result conveys the illusion of a two-dimensional dial rather than three. I personally feel the simplicity of the design is integral to its success.

Five Best watches of2013By Steve Huyton

ItIt is a monumental task to try & chose a denitive shortlist of ve watches. Ultimately there are several brands produc-ing absolutely spectacular timepieces. This has attracted designers to push the boundaries & develop radical new concepts. Every conceivable material is being incorporated to produce the nest horological architecture. The humble watch has been transformed into an objet d’art. This metamorphosis has been driven by modern consumer tastes. Realistically telling the time on these wonderful devices is almost secondary. Whilst recently there has been a renaissance of the mechanical watch there is also a signicant amount of state of the art technology available on the market. On that basis hemarket. On that basis here are my selections.



Christophe Claret SopranoAt Manufacture Claret the primary objective is to satisfy the ever-increasing demand for ultra high-end watchmaking. The Soprano denitely doesn’t disappoint on that or any other front. Aesthetically this is an impeccableimpeccable looking timepiece exhibiting a fastidious attention to detail. The dial is sublime and showcases the unbelievably complicated movement. All these amazing workings are perfectly encased in white gold & titanium. I absolutely love the way the blue hands punctuate the sensational skeletonizedskeletonized design. The dimensions of the watch are suitably majestic measuring at 45mm x 56.80mm x 15.32mm. All this brilliance is echoed with the formidable Calibre TRD98. This remarkable 39-jewel movement combines a ying tourbillon & minute repeater in one mechanism. All this exclusive luxury is limited to only 8 pieces.exclusive luxury is limited to only 8 pieces.

T-1000 Gotham – Rebellion Timepieces InIn the scheme of things Rebellion is a fairly young company that’s already left an indelible footprint in the world of watchmaking. Their mantra is to design incredibly innovative watches incorporating highly intricate mechanisms. The T-1000 Gotham epitomises this with magni-centcent ease. This awesome timepiece pays homage to the dark crusader & visually is completely unique. The robust titanium case exudes power & measures a massive 52.2 mm x 47.9 mm x 18.2 mm. The very existence of a piece like this symbolizes the immense talenttalent involved in the watch industry. Underneath the armored shell like exterior lies the staggering REB T-1000. This outstanding mechanical movement delivers an unrivaled world record 1000-hour power reserve. This is all enabled by a patented system of six vertical mainspring barrels.

HYT H2 I’veI’ve recently had numerous conversations with the erudite CEO of HYT Vincent Perriard. It’s clear he is very excited by the company’s highly innovative new timepiece. Basically it would have been easy to trade on the success of the highly acclaimed H1. Instead they have completelycompletely recongured the design & mechanism giving the watch a whole new dynamic. The results are astounding & visually mind blowing. The overall concept is the same & is a combination of uid mechanics with high-end horology. I love the skeleton dial exposing all the technical brilliance of the movement and the pistons. The uouorescent liquid employed to indicate the time is remarkable. Ultimately the H2 is a pretty enchanting timepiece. Underneath the large titanium case rests an exclusive HYT calibre developed by Jean-François Mojon at Chronode.



AkriviA SaturnMostMost brands wouldn’t attempt an unbelievably ambitious timepiece as their foray into the highly competitive watch market. Rexhep Rexhepi and Etienne Deschamps are two young visionaries aiming for perfection. Akrivia is an amalgamation of two extraordinary talents thriving to combine avant-garde designs with high hodesigns with high horology. The end result is a wonderful looking and profoundly complicated watch. The planet of the same name inspired the design of the Saturn. Essentially the concept originated from a sketch of a circle surrounded by an ellipse. Aesthetically the piece has a sporty appearanceappearance with perfectly contoured lines. This theme is illustrated conclusively on the exquisite dial showcasing the chronograph and sublime tourbillon. All this mechanical magic is encased in steel and is limited to a mere 10 pieces.

BMW Pininfarina Gran Lusso CoupéElegant, Sophisticated and Sporty


With the BMW Pininfarina Gran Lusso Coupé, the BMW Design team took up exclusive design aspects such as luxury and elegance and fed them into a creative exchangeexchange with long-established specialist car designer and manufacturer Pininfarina. In this elaborately created one-off, the renowned companies BMW Group and Pininfarina joined forces to bring an idea to fruition: “The appeal of this collaboration with Pininfarina is that you get another, very different and special angle on facets like luxury and exclusivity,” notes Karim Habib, Head of BMW Design.Design. “The Italian company, after all, has always been a byword for these criteria in particular, demonstrating time and again its keen sensitivity and exceptional nesse in these areas. In Pininfarina we have found the ideal partner to lend shape to this vehicle concept.”

“The result of this cooperative venture is far greater than the sum of its parts,” says Fabio Filippini, Head of Design at Pininfarina. “When two such tradition-rich and experienced brands join forces to turn a vision into reality, something utterly new and exciting emerges. From start to nish, this project was dened by a mutual respect for the identity of the other company.”

BMW and Pininfarina are two of the most tradition-swathed names in the motoring world.

Each is a byword for cutting-edge technology, style, dynamics and aesthetics. With the BMW Pininfarina Gran Lusso Coupé, the two time-honoured companies unveiled the outcome of their rst collaboration at the Concorso d’Eleganza Villa d’Este 2013. The BMW Pininfarina Gran Lusso Coupé is a one-off and represents the exclusive in-terpretation of a luxurious BMW Coupé as seen through the eyes of Pininfarina. Working in close consultation, the twotwo design teams have created a new automotive per-sona brimming with character and ready to join the high-end luxury class – typically BMW while sporting the distinctive signature of Pininfarina.



The BMW Pininfarina Gran Lusso Coupé adds a new dimension to the BMW claim to exclusivity. This painstakingly created one-off captivates the viewer at rst glance. Liberal surface areas and taut contours are the distinguishingdistinguishing elements of an elegant car body. Typical BMW proportions – a long wheelbase, stretched bonnet and set-back greenhouse – imbue the BMW Pininfarina Gran Lusso Coupé with imposing dynamics even when stationary.

AtAt the same time the car exudes balance and harmony: BMW values such as technology, dynamics and precision are complemented by the skilled craftsmanship of Pininfarina to create a very special holistic experience. “The BMW Pininfarina Gran Lusso Coupé has an extraoextraordinary impact. It expresses hallmark BMW values such as luxury and sheer presence in a highly elegant form,” says Adrian van Hooydonk, Senior Vice President BMW Group Design. “I admire the reductive clarity and precision in Pininfarina’s design. Their expectations for the end result have been just as high as ours, and their under-standing of design perfectly complements the BMW design DNA for a vehicle of this kind.”design DNA for a vehicle of this kind.”

Consummate elegance

Dynamic presenceWith its broad, wheel-focused stance, the front of the BMW Pininfarina Gran Lusso Coupé radiates sheer presence and dynamics. The hallmark double-kidney grille and the road-focused headlights with their suggested twin circular look reveal at a glance the family bond with BMW. At the same time the distinctive Pininfarina elements have been interpreted with Italian nesse to lend the front end a special air.

TheThe trademark BMW kidney grille forms the central element of the front-end design, and all surfaces and lines take their bearings from it. It symbolically points to the engine at the heart of the vehicle, its size reecting the power of the V12 unit nestling behind it. The “kidneys”“kidneys” are angled towards the road, citing the typical BMW “shark nose” and lending the front end an even more dynamic look, particularly when seen from the side. Viewed up close it discloses highly accomplished detail work: the front part of the bipartite kidney grille is made of matt-sheen aluminium, while behind it an identically shaped part in high-gloss black adds visual depth and makes for an exciting contrast of materials.

AboveAbove the kidney grille the bonnet stretches across the front of the car, its subtle contours appearing to emanate from the BMW emblem and lending the bonnet a dynamic elegance. The at head-lights underline the road-focused look associated with a BMW and round off the “face” of the BMW Pininfarina Gran Lusso Coupé. Their dynamic contours are in perfect harmony with the classic BMW twin circular look in an interpretation that leaves them open at thethe top. The use of LED technology creates a technically premium impression while adding a striking depth to the headlights.

The eye-catchingly sporty front apron concludes the front end of the BMW Pininfarina Gran Lusso Coupé as it dips towards the road. The at, one-piece air intake accentuates the breadth of the front, an impression reinforced by chrome trim that adds a classy touch. The air intake is larger at the wheels and draws attention to the car’s wide, sporty track. Just above the road surface, discreet Pininfarina lettering points to the contributing partner from Italy, like a signature on a work of art.on a work of art.


Elegant sculpture


The designers at BMW and Pininfarina set particular store by creating the right proportions. The car’s surfaces display the elaborate form language of BMW while being sculpted with a clarity that is hallmark Pininfarina. Within a powerfully present silhouette, convex taperings on the side add a dynamic elegance and give the body a tautly athletic shape.

AtAt the same time the reduced, precise contours stretch the vehicle and underline its exclusivity with a contemporary touch. The high shoulder line extends almost horizontally along the entire side of the car, imbuing the BMW Pininfarina Gran Lusso Coupé with stature and presence. Above it the long roof line ows elegantly into the rear to dene the short tail end. Below the shoulder line, a striking countersweepcountersweep to the roof line emanates from the Air Breather behind the front wheel. Ascending towards the rear, it lends the back section of the car a light and dynamic appearance. All the lines have been designed with keen sensitivity: as they trace their course they become stronger or weaker and, through the changing play of light and shadow, show off the surrounding surfaces to their best effect.

Numerous details accentuate the elegance of the side view. The matt-sheen embellishment behind the front wheel adds a stylish accent as it integrates the side indicator. Another signature BMW detail is the Hofmeister kink – the eye-catching forward bend in the window graphic that is perfectly integrated into the surrounding play of lines. Behind it the V12 logo indicates the powerful engine within thethe BMW Pininfarina Gran Lusso Coupé. Pininfarina lettering in the side panel points to the denitive role played by the Italian design company in creating this vehicle, with the Pininfarina logo above it indicating that the BMW Pininfarina Gran Lusso Coupé was also built by Pininfarina.

The exclusively designed 21-inch wheels perfectly augment the sporty, elegant statement made by the BMW Pininfarina Gran Lusso Coupé. Five trios of graceful yet powerfully sculpted spokes display a strong visual depth through the application of matt-sheen aluminium, black and black chrome. As such the wheel design blends an elegantelegant multi-spoke style with the sportiness of ve-spoke rims.

Sophisticated stanceThe elongated side prole leads to a slender and elegant tail end. Striking horizontal elements imbue the entire rear end with a very broad, at impression. At the same time, the generous surface design of the rear lends it a powerful presence. Between the surfaces, precise contours and horizontal lines break up the rear aspect, resulting in a clever interplay of light and shadow that partitions the entire design and brings it alive. AnAn eye-catching detail is the transition from the roof to the rear lid: two elaborately shaped struts extend the roof pillar towards the rear, ensuring an elegantly uid transition of the roof line into the tail section.

ExtendingExtending from the sides, the tail lights embrace the rear end in a single sweeping gesture that brings the side and rear together visually. The tail lights reveal elaborately detailed workmanship and lend the BMW L-shape a slender, almost ligree interpretation. They are set – jewel-like – within high-grade trim in matt-sheen aluminium. A particular highlight is their open design, allowing air to ow through them.



The interior of the BMW Pininfarina Gran Lusso Coupé takes up the accomplished fusion of modern elegance and authoritative dynamics as displayed by the exterior.

HeHere the melding of sportiness, exclusivity and comfort makes for a unique interior experience. The uid underlying geometry of the interior design by BMW takes on an individual character courtesy of the Pininfarina touch. With a special colour concept, choice materials and geometrical details in the doors, centre console and dashboard binnacle, Pininfarina lends further emphasis to signature BMW elementselements such as the driver focus and layering principle, while accentuating the sporty character of the interior with a ne instinct for cutting-edge and elegant details alike.

TheThe four-seater luxury coupé rolls out an exclusive ambience to welcome driver and passengers. The front and rear seats from the Pininfarina drawing board embrace all occupants with sporty side supports while providing the highest levels of comfort.

From the driver’s seat, a sideward glance will initially reveal the hallmark BMW driver focus: all driving-related functionsfunctions and controls are slightly angled towards the driver to be within optimal ergonomic reach. The horizontal alignment of the surfaces and lines of the dashboard create an expansive sense of space. The doors take up the ow of lines and invest them with greater dynamics as they follow

their course, while the door handles cite the incisive shape of the tail lights as well as the side-panel embellishments as they bring these styling cues into the interior. The rear of the cabin likewise boasts spacious design, with legroom in the back seats of the BMW Pininfarina Gran Lusso Coupé almost on a par with that of a large luxury sedan.

The Interior

The roof liner of nest Italian virgin wool features the striking “Principe di Galles” pattern. This grey plaid strikes a bold contrast to the traditional materials used for the doors and dashboard. The brown leather seats also pick up on the pattern in their all-round piping. Allowing extra light into thethe interior is an oblong aperture in the roof liner which is additionally illuminated by white LEDs. In the footwell areas, a soft deep-pile carpet in dark grey adds to a subtle sense of wellbeing. Another interior detail are the free-standing B-pillars, whose elegant design when viewed from the outside creates a homogeneous glazed area and frameless doors that appear very light.

Top-quality craftsmanship

The exclusive colour and material concept is one of the stand-out features of the BMW Pininfarina Gran Lusso Coupé and eloquently reects its unique character. Extensive handcraftsmanship further enhances the interior ambience. Finest leather and kauri wood aged more than 48,000 years lend the cabin of the BMW Pininfarina Gran Lusso Coupé a special aura. The high-grade leather from thethe Foglizzo leather factory – in black and a light shade of Tobacco Brown – creates a warm, exclusive ambience. Metal highlights in black chrome set a technical counter-point to the extensive application of natural materials.

All the wood elements in the cabin are sourced from a single piece of kauri wood selected by the Italian timber experts of Riva 1920 exclusively for the BMW Pininfarina Gran Lusso Coupé. Kauri wood has a unique grain and shifts in colour from gold to red to brown, depending on the incidence of light and angle of view. Simply polished and oiled, it exudes a particular warmth and naturalness in leagueleague with the exclusive leather surfaces of the interior. Native to New Zealand, kauri wood is among the rarest timbers in the world. Its special character derives from the fact that the toppled kauri trees have been preserved in swamps for millennia and can be processed like fresh timber after being retrieved from the fossil swampland.


SPECIAL REPORT: The Luxury of South Africa

Editor Simon Wittenberg explores some of the most luxurious destinations along South Africa’s famed Garden Route.




to travel along the hugely popular ‘Garden Route’. This term is commonly used to describe the country’s southern stretch of coastline which extends between Mossel Bay in the west and Port Elizabeth in the east.

With the area encompassing several of South Africa’s most beautiful scenic highlights as well as stunning displays ofof nature both on land and out at sea, it is also home to some of the country’s most luxurious destinations.

hen you listen to people talking about visiting South Africa, one of the rst things they often recommend is W

OnlyOnly 45 km to the east of Port Elizabeth, South Africa’s fth largest city, is the Shamwari Game Reserve, one of the world’s leading safaris and game reserves. Multi-award-winning and extending over 25,000 hectares with a total capacity of 110 beds, Shamwari is home to the ‘Big Five’ game animals which are namely the lion, the African elephant, the Cape buffalo, the leopard, and the rhinocerhinoceros, a phrase which was coined by hunters to refer to the ve most difcult species in Africa to pursue on foot rather than these being the largest in existence. Contrary to the Kruger National Park which is to the north-east of Johannesburg, Shamwari, one of the largest private conservation initiatives in Southern Africa, has the added benet of being sited in a malaria-free zone.

When staying on the reserve, guests have a choice of seven different types of lodge, all of which boast ve-star accommodation that can be enjoyed between the game drives and on-site Relaxation Retreats which provide numenumerous health treatments. We chose Eagles Crag Lodge, which sits deep into Shamwari around 20 km from the main entrance, reached solely by roads made of com-pacted deep-red iron rich soil. An ideal haven for those seeking a private experience away from the masses, Eagles Crag is a remote cluster of just nine luxurious king and twin suites.

Beyond your wildest dreams

Visitors to Shamwari are invited to participate in a set programme which runs from 13:00 the day of arrival to 11:00 the following morning which includes two game drives to ensure that they see an ample and diverse range of wildlife during their stay. However, the schedule is entientirely exible from the point of view that participants may opt of any activity if they wish to spend more time enjoying the lavish accommodation or simply to take in the breath-taking surroundings.

A ve-star experience from start to nish

The well-choreographed customer service at Eagles Crag was seen from the very moment we arrived at the main hospitality lodge; our luggage was taken from our vehicle directly to our suite, the car was valet parked, and we enjoyedenjoyed two glasses of pink lemonade on check-in which meant that we could relax immediately and sit down for the light lunch. This was served in a smart dining room which grants spectacular views of the adjoining cliffs and lush green vegetation. The menu included around eight different choices with dishes such as Gnocchi and pan-fried Line Fish, and is accompanied by a good selection of wines and soft drinks. selection of wines and soft drinks.

After sampling a delicious meal, our host accompanied us along the discreetly-lit suspended wooden walkways which link the main lodge to each of the stand-alone African-style thatched “huts”. Our “African Fish Eagle” suite which had no TV or wireless Internet access (meaning that you are truly cut off from world events), took the form of a circular open plan room with a four poster bed forming the centposter bed forming the centrepiece.

This was surrounded by a separate shower, free-standing bath, and standalone twin sinks as well as a soft seating area complete with a spotting scope. For those visiting during the warmer months, occupants can take a dip in the private plunge pool or simply sit back on the decking area and admire the local scenery where the only sound interrupting the tranquillity is bird song.

Afternoon refreshments in the main lounge area of the hospitality lodge is really the rst opportunity to meet the other guests in your ‘group’ for the two game drives (each of the open-sided Toyota LandCruiser vehicles has a total capacity of 10 people), as well as your dedicated ranger who guides you around the Shamwari Game Reserve over the two days.



In the evening, the beautifully-prepared three-course dinner provides yet another chance to share memories and reect on the day’s marvels with fellow visitors. Paired with a Petit 2012 Chenin Blanc wine, we tried the roast pepper and camembert cheese tartlet for the starter, followedfollowed by mild vegetable curry with savoury couscous whilst my companion’s taste buds were treated to a sumptuous roast chicken breast llet on a bed of feta and tomato stufng and ratatouille. The meal was rounded off nicely with a baked orange and marmalade pudding and a cheese platter.

DueDue to the limited time available at this destination, we opted solely for the morning drive, but despite an early wake-up call of 5am, it is denitely worth pulling back thethe covers to catch a glimpse of nature’s early risers. Starting as dawn begins to break and sheltering beneath the woollen blankets, our highly skilled ranger slipped and skidded around the extensive and complex maze of bumpy off-road tracks, and it wasn’t long before we caught our rst glimpse of one of Shamwari’s gems; springboks grazing on the upper plains.

AsAs the weather became brighter, the sights become greater and we were rewarded with watching nature in action: a herd of lions and cubs whose ages range from just two months to six and a half years old eyeing up a ock of vulnerable impala only metres away, who were later joined by the head of the pride, a male lion character-ised by the beauty of its mane.

Peppered by explanations of the dynamics and movements of the herds on the reserve, our ranger then re-took to the winding tracks which revealed stunning displays of other species feeding on the reserve’s dense vegetation: African elephants (who take their name from the shape of their ears which resemble the map of the continent) who simply meandered past our 4x4 in a surprisingly peaceful and gracefulgraceful manner, as well as giraffes who were harvesting the leaves from the higher branches of trees at the road-side.

Other highlights of our journey across Shamwari were namely waterbuck, monkeys, and black-headed herons, as well as the chance to see rst-hand the highly valuable work of the Born Free Foundation. A UK-based wildlife or-ganisation, the big cat and education centre serves as a ‘retirement home’ for ageing leopards and lions that have previously been poorly treated in captivity around the world. world.

Our return to the Eagles Crag Lodge after three hours on the road was rewarded with a substantial breakfast, which served as the perfect opportunity to digest and reect on some truly unforgettable moments which we had wit-nessed during our short visit to the Shamwari Game Reserve. Expect to pay 5,750 Rand (around £415) per person per night based on two people sharing an Eagles CragCrag Lodge Junior Suite in high season (01 January – 30 April). The quoted price includes breakfast, lunch, dinner, high tea, game drives, guided walks, tea, coffee, water, game drive beverages, a tourism levy and 14% VAT.



Joe Cloete is the General Manager of the Shamwari Group. We caught up with him at Long Lee Manor, an Edwardian-style house offering luxury colonial-style accommodation

on the Shamwari Game Reserve.

LM:LM: What have been your career highlights to date and how long have you worked for at the Shamwari Game Reserve?JC: I did a degree in Economics and Marketing, and I thought it would be a good move to get involved tourism in South Africa, because at that time, the industry was justjust coming out of the doldrums and we had the rst democratic elections. I was fortunate to have met a friend who introduced me to the gentleman who developed Shamwari, and I have been at the reserve since 1992, the same year that it ofcially opened. I started as a eld staff and then moved to the sales and marketing side for around 12 years before becoming General Manager of the ShamwariShamwari Game Reserve. In 2010, I took over as the General Manager of the Shamwari Group and am now responsible for the following facilities in South Africa: the Shamwari Game Reserve on the Eastern Cape, the Jock Safari Lodge in Kruger National Park, the Nkomazi Game Reserve, the Sanbona Wildlife Reserve near Cape Town (which is twice the size of Shamwari), as well as two lodges in Nyungwe where one is a gorilla experience whilst the other is orientated around primates.

LM:LM: How many visitors did you receive at the Shamwari Game Reserve in 2012, and where do most guests come from?JC:JC: Around 21,000 which is a decent occupancy, but we need to increase this slightly. Most of our guests are from the UK and still make up about 50% of our total clientele. The UK was actually the rst market that we went to 20 years ago because it has a rich association with South Africa. There are no language barriers, the timezones are fairly similar (there is no jetlag), and many British visitors havehave friends and family in this country. We then moved into Europe, specically Germany, followed by the USA and Australia. In the last couple of years, we have gone into new markets such as Russia, India, Argentina, and Brazil which spreads the marketing reach and the risk massively for us as a business because different territories travel at different times of the year which therefore evens out the occupancoccupancy. Traditionally, February and March are our busiest months when Europe has the worst weather.

LM: Do you have a typical customer?JC: We operate in the ve-star bracket and are probably in the middle section of this in terms of pricing in this country. Our clientele base is generally made of up of middle-aged professionals. We are also in the honeymoon and wedding market, but the bulk of the business is from individuals who are retired or are close to retirement. However it dependsdepends on the specic product; for example, the Bayethe Lodge tented accommodation attracts a lot of young people who want more of an African feel, whilst Villa

Joe Cloete

Lobengula works very well for those who seek a private experience amongst family or friends and who wish to create their own programme.

LM: Who is your principal competition in your sector?JC:JC: It is undoubtedly the lodges within the Kruger National Park. For example, Richard Branson has his Ulusaba Private Game Reserve in this area. Locally, we are a similar product to the Kwandwe Game Reserve, but we are probably the market leader in the Eastern Cape of SouthSouth Africa as we were the pioneer in terms of all the conservation efforts which we have done, and others have since followed in our footsteps.

LM: What are your goals for 2013?JC: We wish to grow the occupancy between 5 to 8% and the rates slightly to improve the bottom line.

LM:LM: How do you see the future of the Shamwari Game Reserve?JC: We would love to acquire a bit more land to complete the puzzle. If you look at a map of the reserve, there is an area that would t in nicely to make it more of a manageablemanageable shape which would move the property up to around 30,000 hectares. Over and above the lodges, we also have a gap year student programme which we would like to develop. From a conservation point of view, we would like to carry out a big green energy initiative. We have already done a lot of work on this through the instal-lation of solar panels and the recycling of water for example, but would like to take this to the next level as this is going to be something that people will be looking at in times to come. Our core focus however has been taking old pieces of land, rehabilitating them, and turning them into sustainable businesses.

www.shamwari.com


Around two hours’ drive west along the N2 highway is anotheranother jewel of the Garden Route in the form of the Kurland Hotel, a ve-star property and proud member of the Relais & Chateaux Association which sits near to Nature Valley Beach and around 20 km from Plettenberg Bay.

OpenedOpened twelve years ago by Founder Peter Behr, the family-orientated Kurland Hotel, which is famous for its roses and abundance of fragrant owers, sits on a 700700 hectare (1,700 acre) private estate. Twelve luxurious suites within standalone colonial style buildings form the accommodation, which are set against a backdrop of stunning grounds and sweeping hills, therefore pampering its guests with a truly magical setting. The interior décor has largely been sourced from heirlooms and objets d’art discovered at international fairs such as the Salone InteInternazionale del Mobile in the Italian city of Milan, and therefore each suite takes on a distinct feel. We stayed in one of the two exclusive 75m2 Superior Paddock Suites which are located away from the beautifully manicured gardens meaning that you can enjoy a more quiet and private experience.

The Paddock Suites are at the top end of the Kurland's offering (expect to pay around 3,200 Rand (£235) per person sharing bed and breakfast in high season) and includes a separate loft area accessible via an internal staircase which hosts a further bedroom and second en-suite bathroom suitable for children or an au-pair.

TheThe main and very spacious bedroom is lled with a plethora of oral-themed furnishings which creates a sanctuary of comfort. These are namely a chaise longue complete with down-lled cushions, a king size bed made up of crisp white sheets, a sofa and writing desk, as well as an LCD TV.

The cosy ambiance of the Paddock Suite is further rreinforced with an open replace making it very easy to simply drift off to sleep accompanied by the crackling of the ames and the peacefulness of the environment. Large wooden terrace doors open up on to a small private swimming pool and secluded seating area which gives the perfect platform for guests to absorb the magnicence of the surrounding landscape.

A FLORAL PARADISE



When staying at the Kurland, there are two eateries within the grounds. The rst is the à la carte restaurant which is an outstanding example of the very best of South African food. This is prepared by the property’s celebrated Executive Chef Leon Coetzee who uses the nest organic herbs and vegetables grown on-site. We tried the creamy baby marrow and basil soup followed by a herb linguine withwith aubergine, pine nuts and cont tomato. The other can be found in a 100-year old building by the name of Katarina's, an 80-cover bistro restaurant which provides a more informal ambiance where the terrace lies adjacent to one of the estate’s four polo elds.

Come the morning, and breakfast on the veranda looks out on to the stunning central garden and pool area and guests can choose from a small buffet of cereals, fresh fruit, and juices and may also make a selection from the hot menu which features dishes such as pancakes, omelettes and pan-fried French toast.

HoweveHowever, the real highlight of the Kurland Hotel's stunning grounds is without doubt the agship ve-bedroom ‘Villa’ which encompasses three lounges, as well as its own pool, steam room, and sauna, and looks out on to an extensive and neatly-manicured lawn area. A further three rooms are available in a smaller adjoining property.

In December, expect to pay 35,000 Rand (around £2,500) per night bed and breakfast for the Villa in high season, and around 15,000 Rand (£1,100) during the remainder of the year.

Recreational activities for guests on the Kurland estate in-clude horse riding, tennis, swimming, and nature walks, amongst others.

www.kurland.co.za


Sitting on the dock of a bay

Continuing west along the coast towards Cape Town, you arrive in Knysna, a picturesque town and a highly popular tourist destination which sits on the base of the Knysna River and behind ‘the Heads’ which shield the estuary from the Indian Ocean. Local attractions include boat tours, the Elephant Park, as well as nu-merous golf courses.

Visitors to Knysna benet from a multitude of luxury hotels to choose from, with most situated between the main shopping district and the bustling marina area known as the ‘Waterfront’. We opted for the four-star 123-bedroom Protea Hotel Knysna Quays which is one of the best located properties for those wishing to take advantage of the facilities that the Waterfront touristtourist complex brings, whether this is by day or night. Lying on the town's coastal road, one of the busier thoroughfares, the Protea Hotel Knysna Quays sports a modern-style of architecture and its facilities are namely an outdoor-heated swimming pool (extending to a depth of 1.7 metres) and terrace, an in-house bar, as well as comfortable seating in the main atrium and on-site secuon-site secure parking.




Rex Hotel on Knysna’s Gray Street

Conrad Pezula Resort & Spa


Luxurious Magazine also recommends:

The four-star Rex Hotel on Knysna’s Gray Street is conveniently situated near to the Waterfront and accommodationaccommodation comes in the form of 30 individual luxury apartments. A complementary buffet breakfast is served in the Rose restaurant which looks out on to a central terrace bordered by a collection of small boutiques.

Expect to pay 2,000 Rand (around £145) based on two adults sharing a Luxury Studio Room. www.rexhotel.co.za

HomeHome to the French World Cup squad in 2010, the ve-star Conrad Pezula Resort & Spa is located on the Eastern Head of Knysna. Highlights include the 18-hole Pezula Championship Golf Course, the award-winning spa, indoor and outdoor swimming pools, as well as the Pezula Private Castle which sits above the beautiful sands of Noetzie Beach.

ExpectExpect to pay 3,395 Rand (around £250) based on two adults sharing a King Junior Deluxe Suite on the rst Saturday night in December 2013. http://conradhotels3.hilton.com

Interview with

Mark DunhillInternational Director of

T.M. LewinT.M. Lewin is a renowned retailer of mens and wo-menswear, a business which was rst established in 1898. In 2011, they appointed Mark Dunhill, the then CEO of jeweller Fabergé, to the role of International Director who is today responsible for delivering T.M. Lewin’s ambition to become the leading specialist business wear retailer in every marketmarket that they enter. We caught up with him to nd out more.

Pascale Hayward talks to

Sophie Breitmeyer


I was surprised to learn that she was training at the ski championships in France before deciding to enrol for a course at the prestigious St Martin’s College of Art and Design in London.

Despite her young age, Sophie has already established her style and her name in the world of ne and fashion jewelleryjewellery brands. Let’s learn a bit more about this young and talented jewel designer who has very clear ideas on how to run her business and establish her brand.

discovered Sophie Breitmeyer’s unique and beautiful ne jewellery at an art fair in the Goldsmiths Centre in London where she has her own workshop studio nestled amongst established rms of silver-smiths and jewellers and young craftspeople starting out in business.I

Where does your desire to create jewels originate from?

I don’t remember when I decided I wanted to become a jeweller, however I believe that I was meant to be one. It is in my blood. My great grandfather travelled to South Africa with Cecil Rhodes in the early 1900’s where he was one ofof the original directors of De Beers. I have always been creative and have had a desire to make things, this coupled with my family’s history meant the jewellery was the obvious path for me. My mother has also been a big inuence as she loves jewellery and has only added fuel to the re where my interest in jewellery has been concerned.

YYou seem very enthusiastic about the course you did at St Martin’s. Tell us a bit more about Saint Martins and about the course you did?

CentralCentral Saint Martins is a wonderful place to study, you can not help but feel excited as you walk through its doors. The place buzzes with creativity and you just know that inside those 4 walls some truly exciting and inspiring things are happening. For all its magic though it is a tough place to learn, you are pushed to the boundaries of your creativity and concepts in search of great results. Saint MartinsMartins has a reputation and it certainly lives up to this. The opportunities I got there have led me to where I am today, I am grateful for this as elsewhere I do not believe that the same opportunities would have found me. The course at Saint Martins was both practical as well as design led, we learnt not only how to imagine great things but to create them as well.

What was the outcome of this course and how did it help to start off your career?

The completion of every degree at Saint Martins results in a degree show, a week long exhibition open to the press, buyers, and the public. The degree show for me was the start of Sophie Breitmeyer Designs. I was asked as a result of my degree show to design and consult on collectionscollections for a number of both ne and fashion jewellery brands such as Kiki McDonough and Tateossian along-side this my own work was nominated for The Bright Young Gem Award @ International Jewellery London, a showcase of 5 exciting new designers from across the country, chosen by key press such as Hilary Alexander of the Telegraph Fashion and Vivienne Becker of the Financial Financial Times How to Spend it.

In 2010, you decided to start your own company “Sophie Breitmeyer Design”. What made you decide to do this?

The Degree Show opened a lot of doors for me, none of which I was ready to close therefore I decided to set up my own company in 2010. Sophie Breitmeyer Designs, selling annual collections of ne jewellery, whilst making bespoke made to order pieces for private clients as well as designing and consulting for bigger brands.



What have been your major developments and achieve-ments since 2010? Which one contributed to establish your own brand?

Since 2010 there have been a couple of major developments that have contributed to establishing my own brand. The rst was being nominated to be a Bright Young Gem, this encouraged me to set up my own brand rather than work for one.

InIn 2011 I collaborated with both Winterson Pearls www.winterson.co.uk, as well as Fyodor Golan on their Spring/Summer 2012 collection creating a series of collars. Fyodor Golan won fashion fringe 2011 of the back of this collection and I was subsequently nominated to be Catwalk Designer of the Year in 2012.

InIn 2012, I decided to really concentrate on my own work having consulted and collaborated with a variety of companies since my graduation. I relaunched my website and employed a PR company to handle my public relations with a new collection Serpentina, which has led to my work gaining more inuential press and the attraction of some of the UK’s key buyers.

AAre there particular pieces of jewellery you enjoy de-signing and producing?

I love producing ne jewellery above all other jewellery, within my bespoke work engagement rings are the most rewarding item of jewellery to make as I become a part of a couples story and there development. Within my collections, I enjoy designing pieces of ne jewellery that are both classic as well as unique and fashionable, I believe that I have achieved this in my most recent collection Serpentina. The pieces within this collection are multi faceted in terms of wear as well appealing to all different types of women, there are pieces within the collection for an edgier younger women as well as more classic elegant women.

What is your main focus for 2013 and 2014?

My main aims for 2013 and 2014 are to continue to develop my brand of fashion ne jewellery; I will launch a new collection in September to sit alongside my current collections Serpentina, and Miniature Rufes which will aim to be both classic as well as unique. I would like toto return to trade fairs in the next year as well as show at London Fashion Week. Continuing to develop relationships with both key national and international press and buyers, is I believe very important to maintaining my reputation and making my work accessible and desirable to clientele.

DoDo you have a clear idea what you will be focusing on over the next few years?

Over the next few years I am going to really concentrate on developing brand awareness, both through press as well as getting some key stockists within the UK. I would love to see my work in British department stores such as Liberty’s, Fortnum and Mason and Harvey Nichols.

Do you have a dDo you have a dream?

MyMy dream is to develop a brand that creates both collections, as well as bespoke pieces from a concept studio rather than shop. I would like all the jewellery to be made in the UK. I hope to have a good online presence as well as good press, inuential stockists as well as brand endorsements. I hope to be able to continue to produce ne jewellery that is accessible, wearable and desirable. This is important to me as I want it to sit alongside me as I want it to sit alongside ready to wear easily.

www.sophiebreitmeyer.com

Reena Patel spends a luxury leisure weekend at the leading Welsh resort to have a go at golf and more…

IfIf luxury means large to you, then the sheer size of Celtic Manor Resort will be sure to impress. Host venue for The Ryder Cup in 2010, the property is set in more than 1,400 acres of panoramic parkland at the gateway to Wales.

WWith two hotels – a pleasantly buzzy 330-room luxury hotel and a historic 19th century Manor House with 70 rooms – two exceptional spas, two state-of-the-art health clubs, a shooting school, shing, adventure golf, archery, treetop high ropes course, tennis courts, mountain biking and walking trails, plus three championshipchampionship golf courses, gold academy and two luxury clubhouses, what more could business, leisure and golf travellers want?

Perhaps the choice of six restaurants will be enough to keep you entertained…

TIME FOR TEE AT




Mr Husband and I pulled up to the resort, receiving a high level, efcient service from the staff (which resonated throughout our entire stay). Not only did they ensure our car was valet parked for us, they also arranged our check-in in split seconds and our bags were sent straight up to our spacious suite in a jiffy. Luxurious Magazine readers may also like to know that as well as the obligatory conciergeconcierge and front desk to a ve star property, there is also a guest relations manager, who knows the complete ins and outs of the resort like the back of her hand.

We were running late and so headed straight down to our dinner reservation at the hotel’s nest gourmet restaurant, Terry M. Dressed in elegantly fresh tones of white with a crystal chandelier, the space felt contemporary chic yet comfortable enough to completely let your hair down. In fact, the entire resort was just what we needed to help unwind after being caught up for so long in the frenetic pace the city of London commands.pace the city of London commands.

Terry M proudly carries three prestigious AA rosettes but we got the impression a Michelin star is probably not very far out of reach for them. We went for the tasting menu, which left us feeling deeply satised and settled in for the weekend stay. Notable dishes include poached skate llet with the unusual yet exciting combination to serve it with clams, sprouting broccoli, potato gnocchi, hazelnuts and MonmouthshiMonmouthshire ham and the pear soufé, baked to

with an almond milk sorbet and butterscotch sauce. Fine wine pairings selected by the sommelier were astonish-ingly appropriate to the avours served up on each plate.



The next morning was lled with our main raison d’etre to visit Celtic Manor - my rst ever lesson to learn how to play golf at the top golf academy and Mr Husband’s chance to hit some balls at the driving range before getting out onon to the spectacular, pristine lawns. Celtic Manor offers the challenge of three 18-hole championship golf courses, including the Montgomerie, the Roman Road and the Twenty Ten course, the rst course in history to be designed and built specically to host The Ryder Cup.

NowheNowhere near to course-playing standard, under the plush wing of its excellent training facilities and outstand-ing private tuition by PGA professional Daniel Warwick, I was soon getting to grips with producing a steady half swing. It took a couple more sessions the following day with another golf teacher, Alex, to improve some more. This time, I learnt how to make a full swing to try and reach thethe fairway, the way to chip, put on a green and the basics on using a driver. Whether a total beginner like myself, or a pro already playing on the course, the instructors here are fully equipped to give you the best pointers to help you get to be at the top of your game – not matter what you’re level.

All that swinging had beaten up my arms and shoulders and so time out to relax at the resort’s Forum Spa was certainly in order. We revived our weariness with a signature Forum massage. Spa facilities include a swimming pool, shared hydropool, plus separate whirlpools for him and her in each changing area, sauna, steam room and plunge pool.pool. We had clearly worked up an appetite and that same evening, we took the complimentary shuttle through the country lanes to Newbridge on Usk, a separate country inn with a handful of rooms and two AA rosettes.

We had clearly worked up an appetite and that same eve-ning, we took the complimentary shuttle through the country lanes to Newbridge on Usk, a separate country inn with a handful of rooms and two AA rosettes. Just when we thought nothing else could top Terry M, we tucked into beautifully seared scallops to start and fresh local produce including Welsh lamb for my main. Mr HusbandHusband sampled the beef (also Welsh) and lobster feast. A creamy yet deliciously tart apple crumble pudding for myself and chocolate dessert for him helped round both our meal and our trip off very nicely.

This summer, guests also get to watch players and ponies from across the UK compete on a specially constructed polo eld – called ‘Polo at the Manor’. Attendees can take advantage of a host of hospitality packages that allow you to enjoy a visit to the polo village, the delights of the cham-pagne bar, a pampering treat on the Elemis SpaBus and fantastic live entertainment throughout the day, with an after party at night.after party at night.

www.celtic-manor.com

The 14th green at sunset. Twenty Ten Course, Celtic Manor.


Interview with

Mark DunhillInternational Director of

T.M. LewinT.M. Lewin is a renowned retailer of mens and wo-menswear, a business which was rst established in 1898. In 2011, they appointed Mark Dunhill, the then CEO of jeweller Fabergé, to the role of International Director who is today responsible for delivering T.M. Lewin’s ambition to become the leading specialist business wear retailer in every marketmarket that they enter. We caught up with him to nd out more.




LM: T.M. Lewin has opened their second store in Australia. Why was Melbourne chosen as a location to stock womenswear for the rst time?

MD:MD: We have been waiting until our womenswear collection was ready for the Australian market before we launched it in store. We have been hugely encouraged by the number of enquiries we have received from women in both Sydney and Melbourne. The response from women who have dis-covered our new collection in our Collins St store since we opened has been exciting. We believe there is a great op-portunity for T.M. Lewin by offering a comprehensive, ex-ible and stylish workwear collection to women embracing suits, dresses, shirts and blouses as well as knitwear. We wanted our collection to go beyond the workplace by providing outts that our female customers can wear both at the ofce and at Friday drinks or dinner.

LM: Who do you view as your principal competition in the territory now that you are also targeting female buyers?

MD:MD: There are a number of retailers who include womens-wear in their stores with some housing a limited selection of clothing which meets the needs of the working female. However, we don’t see anybody providing a one-stop-shop providing a stylish and comprehensive business wear wardrobe for men and women, with the range of choice in ts, fabrics and designs that can be found at T.M. Lewin.



LM: What are the core USPs of the T.M. Lewin brand?

MD:MD: T.M. Lewin stands for understated and stylish busi-nesswear for men and women. We offer clothing of the highest quality at prices that represent unrivalled value, with a variety of styles and ts unmatched in the market. We aim to deliver the highest level of personalised service in stores that are both welcoming and luxurious.

LM: Which have been your most protable markets to date and what are your ambitions for T.M. Lewin during the next 5 years?

MD:MD: Australia is our most protable market outside the UK and we are excited by the opportunity to grow this busi-ness substantially over the next ve years. During this period, we expect our international business to become larger than that of our home market, with shops across all continents supported by a thriving e-commerce business.

LM: How many stores do you intend to open by the end of the year?

MD: We are aiming to double the number of T.M. Lewin stores outside the UK this year, bringing the total to around 50.

LM: How do you see the luxury fashion sector per-forming in 2013?

MD: Since the start of the great nancial crisis, we have seen luxury consumers become more discerning: they continue to spend, but more selectively. As a conse-quence, those luxury fashion brands with a clearly dened point of view, strong design ethos and tightly controlled distribution continue to thrive. The more peripheral second tier brands however, have struggled. So in short, the ststrong have been getting stronger while the weak get weaker. I don’t see any reason why this trend will change in 2013.

LM: And about you Mark, you previously assumed the role of CEO of Fabergé. What were the main challenges associated with this position?

MD: This was a hugely rewarding opportunity to restore a famous but neglected brand to its former glory, as one of the most revered jewellers on the planet. It was a fascinating repositioning exercise that required clarity ofof vision and focus on the one hand combined with the ability to identify and nurture the creative talent on the other.

LM: Who has been the most inspirational person during your career to date?

MD: I had a great boss while working for Alfred Dunhill inin Asia in the late 90’s. He was an excellent mentor. He dened a clear set of objectives, provided advice and guidance when requested while giving me a great deal of autonomy.

LM: Which brands to regularly keep an eye on from personal interest?

MD: Retail has always been a dynamic business envienvironment, but never more than today: as e-commerce transforms the way we shop and technology reduces the time required to get new products in front of our customers via a screen or in a store anywhere in the world, the future belongs to those who have the imaginationimagination to capitalise on these changes rather than ght against them. Apple has been a trailblazer in terms of forward-thinking both in terms of the customer experience and supply chain management. Another retailer that has caught my attention recently is Anthropologie whose stores are an absolute delight to browse and explore. LM: Is there a typical day in your job as International Director?

MD: In short, no there isn’t!! This is what makes my job so much fun.

www.tmlewin.co.uk


Regeneration in

‘Give‘Give us your body for a week and we’ll give you back your mind.’ This statement is at the heart of the BodyHoliday promise. And if life indeed has left you feeling slightly jaded and dull, then the Le Sport resort in St. Lucia is the perfect vacation. This is one of the world’s most beautiful locations which provides a truly luxurious and personal service that can help to bring your senses back into focus.your senses back into focus.

Set on a secluded cove in the north west of the island, the BodyHoliday LeSport is a very private retreat. Based on the four key pillars of relaxation, restorative beauty, exercise and good diet, the all-inclusive St. Lucia resort has been created specically to ensure guests leave feeling relaxed, rejuvenated and recharged. This was exactly what I needed in the absence of any sunshinesunshine for what seemed like an eternity. With the Wellness Centre having been voted as one of the best spas in St. Lucia, I was keen to entrust my body into the hands of the experts.

uxurious Magazine’s health and tness expert, Sabi Phagura, provides an insight into the BodyHoliday LeSport resort on the island of St. Lucia in the Caribbean.L




Guests can expect to enjoy one massage per day on full days spent at the resort included in their package. Additional treatments can be booked before you arrive using their online customisation tool. I wanted to make full use of the centre so decided upon a few treatments to get a real sense of relaxation.

TheThe therapists are highly trained thanks to The Wellness Centre Training Academy, which opened in 2006. It broke new ground by setting industry standards in Spa training across the Caribbean with its Holistic, and Health & Beauty Therapist Training Course. Many of the Team Leaders at LeSport have participated in these programmes, so you know you’re in good hands.

TheThe Wellness Centre can be described as a combination of old meets new where ancient philosophies sit alongside cutting-edge modern techniques using the most respected, traditional and organic product ranges. I enjoyed a number of treatments during my stay but the one that completely knocked me out into a deep relaxation was the Shirodhara. This ancient therapy began with a continuous ow of ‘shanti oil’, a warm herbal infusion onto the third eye (between the brows) for a specic duration to stimulate the nervous and hormonal systems.

The oil is then massaged into the hair, scalp, neck and shoulders. To say the treatment brings tranquillity, profound relaxation and clarity of mind is an understatement. According to experts, regular practice of Shirodhara has shown to help with fatigue, mental exhaustion and anxiety.For the more adventurous (and dare I say greedy?) the Synchronised Abhyanga is a must.

TTwo therapists are needed here to massage a specic blend of herbal oils on the body which transmit their own qualities on the skin. The treatments are broken down into a number of different categories including recuperative and restorative and Ayurvedic so there is plenty to choose from. The friendly and mild mannered St. Lucian therapists are only too pleased to have them tailor made for you.

So while on one hand the BodyHoliday offers rest and relaxation, it also provides a range of activities that will keep you busy from dawn ‘til dusk. Ranging from the lush rainforests in the mountains to the golden sands of Cariblue Beach, and from the heights of the Pitons to the busy streets of Castries, St. Lucia has it all.



The BodyHoliday tries to capture everything that the island can offer and thus laid on a variety of activities and sports. So whether you fancy learning to scuba dive, taking up archery or fencing, or even sailing, it really is up to you.

AA team of instructors are always at hand to help you learn or improve a new skill. It all depends of course on whether you can manage to tear yourself from your sun lounger planted in the golden sands beneath the gently swaying palm trees overlooking the turquoise sea.

ForFor an all-inclusive resort, the food is surprisingly good. The Caribbeans see food and drink as central to their lives and not many things give them more pleasure than a fabulous meal that is well cooked using fresh ingredients. With diet being one of the four pillars of wellbeing, there is an organic vegetable garden on site so that the food is as fresh as it can be.

Depending on your mood of dressing up or down, you can choose to eat in a number of different restaurants at the resort including The Pavilion Grill, The Clubhouse, Cariblue Restaurant, or The Deli. For a formal lavish dinner, a visit toto the award-winning Tao restaurant is crucial. Known for its fusion of Eastern and Western cuisine and its stylish ambiance with an accent on art and music, this restaurant offers some of the most delightfully mouth-watering dishes in the most creative of manners.

II would highly recommend the trilogy of scallops, followed by vanilla chicken before nishing off with a frozen coconut soufé and macadamia wontons for dessert. Perched on a second-oor balcony at the edge of Cariblue Beach, you're guaranteed a pleasant breeze and a starry sky while enjoying a delicious dining experience.

DinersDiners are encouraged to book ahead at this delightful eatery as it’s incredibly popular.

The Piano Bar is great for either pre or after dinner drinks. Here you can order your favourite tipple, try a new cocktail, meet some friends and then sit back and relax. The Caribbean favourite - rum punch - is also an option but be warned they can be on the strong side.

TheThe Deli was one of my favourite places to hang out during the day. It’s a great hub to meet with new friends you have made, read a book or just grab something lighter or simpler to eat. Meanwhile the Clubhouse is always at the centre of the action thanks to a circular bar overlooking the sea. So whether you need a drink, afteafternoon tea, a great evening meal, or fancy taking in a night time show, this is the place to be.

TheThe bedrooms, which come in various sizes are a place where you retreat to relax and take stock. Each room oozes luxury and has a feeling of rst-class comfort and privacy. To promote tranquillity there are no TVs in the rooms but complimentary Wi-Fi is available throughout. Each evening, a different blend of tea in a beautifully designeddesigned teapot accompanied by cookies is left in your bedroom to induce a good night’s sleep.

Expect to pay from $US475 per night per room (single occupancy) for the rst Saturday of December 2013.

For more information, visit www.thebodyholiday.com.


With summer upon us, and holidays to warm, sunny exotic locales being planned, now is the time to think what to wear while you lounge by that pool in Saint-Tropez or sashay on the beach in Bali. heidi klein is a name who springs to mind when one thinks of a complete new wardrobe to bring along to a resort.

heidiheidi klein opened its doors in 2002 and quickly became renowned as the one-stop-shop for the perfect holiday wardrobe. Whether you’re looking for bare foot chic or super yacht glamour, heidi klein offers a diverse range of stylish yet practical swimwear, clothing and accessories. From bikinis and one pieces to sunhats, ip ops and kaftans you will nd everything you need to pack for holidays in the sun, all year holidays in the sun, all year round.

Co-founders Heidi Gosman and Penny Klein launched the rst heidi klein store after recognising the frustration of trying put together a great holiday wardrobe outside of the usual summer months. As Heidi explains, ‘pre holiday shopping was really not fun and I thought it should be totally the opposite.’ Heidi and Penny have since developeddeveloped and honed their vision to ‘help women look fantastic and get organised before a holiday.’ The brand has grown while maintaining its essential focus on offering swim and beachwear designed for outstanding t, shape and support using fabrics that perform well in the water as well as on the beach and in the evening. heidi klein also designs a children’s range and has just launched a men’s collectioncollection and a larger range of leather accessories, soon to introduced in store and online.


heidi klein Rhode Island Rectangle Bandeau Rope Mini Dress - £220

Show off your beach bronzed shoulders in this strapless mini dress with stylish combination of white and gold.


heidi klein Black Sands Criss Cross One Piece - £190

Classic perfection. A black one-piece ideal for all shapes featuring subtle eyelet criss cross detailing and chic low scoop back.


heidi klein Indonesia reversible rufe padded triangle bikini - £190

A chic combination of sultry python print and vibrant orange makes for a truly versatile reversible bikini. Inject glamour into your holiday wardrobe with rufe edging and gold detailing.


heidi klein Chain Canvas Bag - £320An elegant over-sized canvas beach tote with chic chunky chain handles and contrast leather trimming. Ideal for your beach basics and more, with a practical waterproof bikini pouch.



heidi klein Aruba Pebble Tunic - £210A cool and lightweight tunic with zesty orange palm print is essential for relaxed off-duty style.


EGOISTAPowered by a 5.2-liter V10 engine supplying it with 600 horsepower, the Lamborghini Egoista is an intentionally extreme and unusual vehicle with absolutely unique characteristics, created by the Volkswagen Group design team – Alessandro Dambrosio responsible for the exterior and Stefan Sielaff for the interior, in particular. De Silva's team chose to create a single-seater, pushing allall the characteristics in Lamborghini's make-up meaning pure driving pleasure, performance and style beyond their limits. The cockpit, designed like a tailor-made suit for the driver, is a removable section which, once combined with the rest of the vehicle, creates a perfect technical, mechanical and aerody-namic unit. Inspiration, as per Lamborghini tradition, once again comes from the world of aviation, and in particular the Apache helicopter, where the cockpit can be ejected in an emergency.

walter De Silva's Homage For Lamborghini's 50th Anniversary.


“The cockpit, made completely of carbon bre and aluminum, represents a sort of survival cell, allowing the driver to isolate and protect themselves from externalexternal elements,” De Silva explained.“We kept an eye on the future when designing the Egoista, with the idea that its cockpit could have been taken from a jet aircraft and integrated into a road vehicle, to provide a different travel option.”



The designThe exterior is characterized by two fundamental aspects: its architecture, and the materials used. The design is determineddetermined by a highly muscular structure, in which empty and solid areas t together with strength and vigor. The bodywork is dominated, on its sides, by the stylized prole of a bull preparing to charge, its horns lowered. The bull is driving towards the front wheels, conferring a futuristic dynamism and lines which are already, in themselves, highly aggressive. Naturally, this is a homage, a bold stylisticstylistic citation which can only be a reworking of the Lamborghini brand icon, the well-known raging bull. The challenge of efciently inserting the Lamborghini symbol as an integral part of the bodywork was met courageously and artistically. The plan view reveals a trimaran prole, where the central hull forms a unique section with the cockpit, underlined by the carbon-ber cover on the front hood.hood.

The upper part of the vehicle does not have aerodynamic appendages, but rather aps integrated in the bodywork prole which act automatically depending on the driving conditions. Two rear aps activate automatically at high speeds to increase stability, while a series of air intakes on the back of the engine hood provides the cooling air ow to the powerful V10 engine. While the front of the vehiclevehicle has a prole intended to increase downforce, the rear is fully open with the mechanics in view, reducing

weight but also with the result of creating a more aggressive look. The Lamborghini Egoista's lights are more like an aiaircraft's than a road vehicle's. It does not have traditional headlights, rather LED clearance lights which determine its position not just on a single plane such as the road, but rather in three dimensions, as is required in airspace. Two white front lights, two red rear lights, a red ashing light in the upper part of the tail, two orange bull's eyes as side markers, and a further two lights on the roof, red on the left andand green on the right, make this four-wheeled UFO unique even in the dark.

Finally, hidden behind the front air intakes at the base of the join between the central body and the two side sections, are two powerful xenon headlamps, two eagle's eyes able to scan the darkness for great distances. As it is made from lightweight materials such as aluminum and carbon-ber, the vehicle has no-walk zones, duly marked like on airliners.

The parallels with the world of aeronautics do not end here, however, as the body is made from a special antiradar material, and the glass is anti-glare with an orange gradation. The rims are also made from antiradar material, at and rough, embellished with carbon-ber plates to improve their aerodynamics.

InteriorTheThe cockpit's interior is extremely rational, its functionality taken to the extreme. There is a racing seat with a four-point seatbelt, each strip a different color, the airbags, and the bare minimum of instruments. The focal point of these is a head-up display, typical of jet ghters. To get out of the vehicle, the driver must remove the steering wheel and rest it on the dashboard, open the dome with an electronic command, stand up in their seat, sit down on a precise point of the left-hand bodywork, then swivel their legs 180 degrees from the inside of the cockpit to the outside of the vehicle. At this point they can set their feet down and stand up. Even in getting out of the vehicle, the Lamborghini Egoista requires a pilot more than a driver, a real top gun.

The philosophyTheThe Egoista contains, in Walter De Silva's opinion, all the product criteria which are part of Lamborghini's make-up. “It's as if Ferruccio Lamborghini were saying: I'm going to put the engine in the back, I don't want a passenger. I want it for myself, and I want it as I imagine it to be. It is a fanatical vehicle, Egoista ts it well.”

IfIf Lamborghinis are cars for the few, this one goes further. It is a car for itself, a gift from Lamborghini to Lamborghini, resplendent in its solitude.

The Egoista is pure emotion, Never Never Land, which no one can ever possess, and which will always

remain a dream, for everyone.


By: Simon Wittenberg MIOJPhotography by: Eléonore de Bonneval / Aston Martin

talent and experience who race head-to-head in identical 445 hp Vantage GT4 race cars.

As the Global Luxury Media Partner, Luxurious Magazine goes behind the scenes in the rst of an exclusive two-part feature.

Aston Martin Racing’s GT4 Challenge is the ideal opportunityopportunity for many to enjoy and toast career success or extend a passion for motor racing or their love of cars. However, such is the diverse range of back-grounds, nationalities and professions of people attracted to the sport, that there is no one over-riding reason for wanting to take part. Some have been invited by close acquaintances, others are trying GT racing or an Aston Martin package for the rst time, whereas entrants such as Scotsman Calum Lockie who has worked with around half of those sitting on the grid, thanks to his management of track days across the UK, is drawn by the prestige of the Aston Martin marque, as well as the performance, feel, and roar of the V8 the V8 Vantage.

“It’s a very well-liked brand and everyone appreciates the cars. They are very much in the hearts of the British public and the Vantage is well engineered and the all-round package is so lovely to drive,” says Mike Brown, the founder and owner of a packaging business, who has competed in every season of the GT4 Challenge to date.

City trader Andy Bruce agrees: “It’s the traditional sportscar, and Aston Martin is all about the looks and the sound.”

OW in its fourth year, the Aston Martin GT4 Challenge of Great Britain is a SIX-ROUND SERIES which brings together individuals of varying levels of N






It is of course a formula that encourages responsible competition on the track, but at the same time gives individualsindividuals the freedom to establish their own personal ambitions and these certainly lie at both extremes up and down the paddock. The primary objective of the current championship leader and motorsport recruiter Andrew Jarman for the 2013 season is to emerge victorious in this year’s series. After two podium nishes, Paul Cripps, who started out driving a modied Vanquish road car on cicircuits simply for amusement, aspires to repeat this success with team-mate Brown in forthcoming rounds.

At the opposite end of the spectrum, for nance director and motorsport enthusiast Paul Bartley, who shares the no.47 race car, the GT4 Challenge is literally a vehicle to harness as much adrenaline and pleasure as possible:

“For“For amateurs like myself who have no aspiration to be in Formula 1, and who just want to have some good quality racing, this is a fantastic series. You don’t have to be an out and out super racing driver to have a lot of fun.”

PhysicistPhysicist and Aston Martin road-car owner Tom Black echoes these sentiments: “It’s a great group of people that do this. The guys that participate tend to have the same attitude, and they simply want to enjoy the weekend.”

Paul Cripps and Mike BrownPaul Bartley

Tom Black Andrew Jarman Calum Lockie

Amongst the many benets, a core part of the GT4 Challenge is indeed the personal interaction that the championship brings amongst participants both during race meetings and away from the track. This is partly assisted by the dedicated invitation-only and lavish hospitalityhospitality unit present at each round which provides an all-important platform for racers to indulge in conversation, swap tips, and digest the day’s events.

“Socially it’s very good. The drivers and teams are friendly and there is a good atmosphere in the paddock,” explains Jarman, and he is not alone in his opinion.

““With most of the other race series that you could take up, there isn’t the same level of camaraderie and friendship seen in the GT4 Challenge,” adds Black.

It’s a similar story for Cripps, an accountant by trade curcurrently employed in the nancial services tax sector: “There is a really good ambiance, and in the past we have to call on others to lend us video to learn tracks and there have been people that have been very open about that. It’s hard racing, but clean, and everybody is good friends at the end of it.”

However, regardless of how competitive the drivers are, the over-riding attitude up and down the pit lane, is the desire to assist others as well as the many newcomers that enter this motorsport category, which therefore makes the championship even more appealing for those considering the GT4 Challenge.

“There“There is always a little bit of gamesmanship with people not revealing everything,” says Physicist and Aston Martin road car owner Tom Black. “However particularly if people are competing for the rst time, drivers are very happy to share information so that they can build knowledge quickly.”

With the GT4 Challenge at the forefront of their mind andand being a core focus of their emotions outside of the regular family routine, the series has quickly become the biggest luxury in life for a large proportion of the drivers. However, for Lockie, being involved in racing on a near daily basis, this extends to ne dining, and an aspiration to own a collection of the aesthetically single-cylinder bikes from manufacturers like Norton, which date back to the 1930s and 50s.to the 1930s and 50s.


For Jarman, it is wristwatches, an acionado with aa penchant for Tag Heuer and the brand’s special editions, proven by his proud ownership of a Monaco chronograph timepiece. Others are avid car collectors such as Bartley who boasts a stable of classics which includes a 1973 Ferrari GTB/4 Daytona and 1974 Porsche RS. Vacations are primarilyprimarily spent with relatives aboard a Fairline Squadron yacht on the island of Majorca, whilst accommodation comes courtesy of luxury villas. Other frequented destinations are namely the South of France, and some of the UK’s most highly acclaimed ve-star hotels including Hampshire’s Chewton Glen.

RetuReturning from the W Retreat & Spa in the Maldives, money broker Charlie Mizon, who made his debut at Donington Park with a fourth place nish alongside Andy Bruce, is an equally serious automotive fanatic. He has enjoyed owning some of the world’s nest supercars including the McLaren SLR, Porsche Carrera GT, and mid-engined two-seater Ford GT, andand next on the list is the highly-prized McLaren F1, one of the models in Bruce’s current collection of 18 high performance cars which also counts two Ferrari F40s: “Luckily my career has gone well so I’ve managed to indulge a bit. The F40 for me was always my poster car when I was growing up, and buying the F1 was a dream come true.”

The 2013 season of the GT4 Challenge is one which is signicant as it coincides with the 100-year anniversaryanniversary of Aston Martin and therefore brings added meaning to the drivers taking to the wheel of the marque’s race cars. Most noticeable is the air of excitement surrounding the next round of the GT4 Challenge at Brands Hatch as part of the Centenary Festival, which will gather together comprehensive grids as well as guest appearances by personalities includingincluding the celebrity chef, James Martin, and Bruno Senna, the nephew of the legendary Formula 1 driver who will present podium trophies and provide demonstration laps in the Aston Martin Vantage GTE race car.

For Lockie, it is a dual celebration as he is also taking part in events commemorating the 125 years of tyre manufacturer Dunlop, one of the GT4’s partners, and a corporation which has played a key role in every single one of his victories to date.

To nd out more about the Aston Martin GT4 Challenge, visit: wwwww.astonmartin.com/racing/series/gt4-challenge.

Charlie Mizon


A stone of this caliber and rarity is the perfect continuation of Mr. Winston’s legacy as the King of Diamonds.”

The ‘Winston Legacy’ was described by Rahul Kadakia, Head of Jewellery at Christie’s Switzerland and Americas, as “the most perfect diamond ever offered for sale at auction”.

The "Winston Legacy"

Nayla Hayek, CEO of Harry Winston said, “Incredible diamonds have always been at the heart of the Harry Winston brand, with many of the world’s most important diamonds beginning in the hands of Mr. Winston, himself, who had the gems cut and polished from pieces of rough. The acquisition of “Winston's Legacy” underscores the brand’s continued commitment to perfection and quality at the highest level. the highest level.

t the Christie’s Geneva May auction, Harry Winston bought the ‘Winston Legacy’, a remarkable awless, colourless pear-shaped diamond with a weight of more than 101 carats.A


101.73-carat$26.7 million

“the most perfect diamond ever offered for sale at auction”Rahul Kadakia, Head of Jewellery at Christie’s Switzerland


In a move that will further cement the partnership between IWC Schaffhausen and the Mercedes AMG Petronas Formula OneTM Team, the two drivers Lewis Hamilton and Nico Rosberg have become Friends of the Brand.

CommentingCommenting on the appointment of the brand’s two newest ambassadors – the rst racing drivers in a select group of world-famous celebrities – Georges Kern, CEO of IWC Schaffhausen, proudly said: “Lewis and Nico are two amazing personalities who work every day at getting that little bit more performance out of themselves and their cars. In their own inimitable way, the two of them represent allall that is best about IWC Schaffhausen. I am deeply moved that I am now able to call them Friends of the Brand.”

In their pursuit of racing success for themselves and the Mercedes AMG Petronas Formula One™ Team, Lewis Hamilton and Nico Rosberg are relentless in their quest for perfection – a quality they share with IWC’s designers, technicians and master watchmakers.

Lewis and Nico become Ambassadorsof IWC Schaffhausen

Lewis Hamilton is a declared acionado of ne watchmaking and clearly recognizes the similarities between his profes-sion and the watches made by IWC Schaffhausen: “I lovewristwatches, and it seems to me that those made by IWC have a lot in common with Formula One™ drivers: they’re unique, high-performance watches and are among the best in their eld. Needless to say, I’m really looking forward to our partnership with the company.”

But watches from IWC Schaffhausen are more than complex, state-of-the-art technology: they are also about passion and emotions, and each of the six families has its own tales to tell as part of the company’s long history. Nico Rosberg has ties with the watch manufacturer from Schaffhausen that started when his father gave him anan IWC years ago. “From that moment on I was hooked, especially on watches by IWC: the designs are simply unique. But it isn’t just the outside: the cases are packed with state-of-the-art technology and high performance.Becoming a Friend of the Brand is like being reunited with an old acquaintance. My rst watch was an IWC, a gift from my father.”


By Sabi Phagura

The Grand Resort Bad Ragaz is a place where you can behold the magic of putting yourself back together again. And that’s not just us saying it here at Luxurious Magazine.

LocatedLocated in Eastern Switzerland at the foot of the Alps with the picturesque mountain backdrop of Heidiland, it has, in the last few weeks, been recognised world-wide as a leading spa and awarded the prestigious title of ‘Best Medi Spa’. Guests can expect to receive serious hard-hitting results from the resort’s anti-ageing programmes, customised detox and weight loss treatments, as well as the more specialised packages. And all while being immersed in the magnicent surroundings of this ve star hotel.

AsAs soon as you enter the resort, the enchanting park opens up in front of you, giving you a glimpse of your new lifestyle, be it for a couple of days, weeks or even a few months. A most stylish, yet warm atmosphere, envelopes you into its calming inuence. And just like I did, you can kick off your heels, slip into your robe, and cocoon yourself in a world of health and wellbeing.




Perhaps one of the most unique selling points in this leading wellbeing and medical health resort is the healing thermal waters boasting a temperature of 36.5 degrees Celsius. The water ows through the entire Grand Resort and its spa suites like a pulsating artery. It’s most rrefreshing and relaxing to know that it’s available at the turn of a tap. The Wellbeing and Thermal Spa, which spans 5,500 square metres offers a tranquil setting and is popular with non-residential guests too, who can indulge in a whole day of pampering.

With 18 massage rooms, there are a variety of treatments on offer. You can choose from thermo stone, herbal massage,massage, choco therapy, ayurveda and many more. I can highly recommend both the honey and the singing bowl treatment which I indulged in. The latter is an effective and proven modality that uses vibrations to help reduce stress, alter consciousness and create a deep sense of peace, wellbeing and better health. The former, on the other hand, works by helping cleanse the body from inside with thethe massaging of honey from the outside. Both treatments sent me into a deep sleep. I only do that when I know I am having a really good massage or treatment.

The modern Spa Lofts, Spa Suites and the Penthouse Floor are enchanting in their own way with their offerings of great comfort and exquisite details. The Spa Suites room I stayed in - like the others - is airy and decorated in a contemporary fashion.

The nest silk and organza textiles adorn the oor length windows in both the bedroom and the bathroom while the sumptuously soft bed linen covers the oversized bed. Small touches like the adjustable AirTouch sleep system ensure guests get a restful and deep sleep.

The rooms are enriched even further with high-end technologytechnology for acoustic and visual enjoyment. But if you’ve come along to get a rest from gadgets that take over your day-to-day life, then you can relax in the Jacuzzis in your bedroom’s en suite. Some suites even have their own sauna. To top it up, there’s even a private bar with complimentary drinks and your very own Nespresso coffee machine.



Food is another important aspect of your stay at the Grand Resort Hotel. Here it’s not just something you eat to ll your rumbling stomach. It’s seen as nourishment from the inside out. With eight restaurants dotted around, there are so many choices, that you would need at least a month to try all the dishes on offer. The head chef, Renato Wust, takes huge pride in his work which he calls his ‘hobb‘hobby.’

He actually prepares 3000 dishes a day - more on event days - and has in excess of 80 chefs working for him in a total of eight kitchens. He’s inspired by his travels, but wherever possible, uses local produce to devise his menus which change quarterly. Food is supplied to the resort up to three times a day to ensure freshness. In his words, he likes to offer ‘quality and freshness for the best price.’price.’ Wust equally works closely with the medical centre to ensure the gastronomy is healthy yet tasty and a real feast for the senses.

There is also an on-site Michelin star restaurant - Abtestube – the only one in Bad Ragaz in fact. Roland Schmid, the chef here, already had a Michelin star under his belt before arriving at the resort and receiving a second one was like the ‘icing on the cake’ he told me. The menu here changes every two weeks and if there is one thing that delights Roland, then it’s to seek rare vegetables. CoCorne de gate is a special variety of potatoes which grow 1000 metres above sea level.

The black carrot is also unique and is served with a number of meat dishes, and has a far more intense avour than the regular variety. I had it with the lamb together with the aforementioned potatoes. It was a pure melt in the mouth moment.

ThisThis restaurant really is a food paradise. Diners can watch the chef prepare their dinner right before their own eyes while being seated at a special table laid in the kitchen. They will be talked through how, why and what is being prepared before sampling the culinary offerings.

LookingLooking for more to do at the The Grand Park Bad Ragaz Hotel? Then why not eat popcorn while watching a lm at the on-site cinema, play a round of golf at the 18-hole PGA championship course, try your luck at the on-site casino, take a ride around the extremely pristine streets of Bad Ragaz by hiring the hotel’s Porsche sports car for half a day or get an adrenalin rush by taking a ride on the HarleyHarley Davidson? Whatever you fancy, rest assured there is plenty to keep you occupied.

With thanks to Switzerland Tourism.

www.resortragaz.ch


Ta strong contribution to the development of their respective spheres of activity – Fine Watchmaking and sports cars – has given rise to spectacular technical innovations and watch creations reecting the values shared by these two legendary brands.

he partnership established almost a decade ago between two iconic names that have made

Jaeger-LeCoultre and Aston Martin: Two legends driven by the spirit of innovation.




In the workshops of Gaydon and the Vallée de Joux, generations of artisans unite their extensive range of skills, meticulously breathing life into exceptional timepieces and automobiles that are eagerly awaited by a dedicated audience of sports lovers, aesthetes and connoisseurs.

TheThe partnership signed between Jaeger - LeCoultre and Aston Martin in 2004, setting an ofcial seal on a long-standing cooperation, was a self-evident development resembling a logical meeting of great minds. While talent itself is uncommon, the association between two icons is as rare as the simultaneous appearance of two stars in the inventive rmament.

The ties established between two brands's Research and Development departments have steadily intensied as their cooperation has given rise to remarkable technical innovations.innovations. The latest among these include the transponder composed of a micro-transmitter built into a timepiece and controlling the central locking system of the cars; the vertical-trigger chronograph so intuitively user-friendly that it resembles that instant sense of ease a driver feels when getting behind the wheel of an Aston Martin; the intintroduction of movements with specic features designed to match sports driving requirements; and the development of materials boasting innovative properties.

LoyalLoyal to the shared values of performance and innovation, this association has deep historical roots, since the rst Aston Martin racing cars were equipped with Jaeger dashboard counters already known for their precision. The characteristic design of the AMVOX models pays tribute to the inventiveness of these talented pioneers by reproduc-ing the 270° sweep of these legendary instruments.

To mark the 180th anniversary of the Grande Maison in the Vallée de Joux and the centenary of the legendary English carmaker, these three original timepieces symbolise the enduring ties between these avantgarde companies.

For Jaeger-LeCoultre CEO, Jérôme Lambert, the success of this long-term partnership is easily explained: “The tradition of excellence represents the foundations of a dynamic and enduring alliance based on the specic expertise of each company and nourished by horological inventiveness illustrated by the countless patents rregistered by the Manufacture in the course of its history that already spans 180 years.”

As far as Aston Martin CEO Ulrich Bez is concerned, “The success of this exceptional British brand in this ourour centenary year comes from a combination of people, heritage and product; above all, it’s about the passion in everything we do. Aston Martin is a world leader in design and luxury – offering the very best of craftsmanship and technology with engineering that embraces excellence and ingenuity in every one of our products.”

InIn 2013, the close relations between Jaeger-LeCoultre and Aston Martin adopt a new appearance with the presentation of three models in the Aston Martin collection. This collection offers Fine Watchmaking connoisseurs a range of exceptionally sturdy and reliable timepieces endowed with useful functions and featuring a design subtly evoking the distinctive world of the prestigious British car maker.



Master Compressor Extreme W-Alarm Aston Martin watchThe alarm watches pilots had always dreamt of boasts all the qualities indispensable to those whose passion ppropels them across continents. Starting with a world time display that enables them to read off at a glance the time in any time zone on the planet. Since long journeys across the world’s various time zones imply facing the dreaded concomitant time differences, the ever useful alarm functionfunction not only features exceptional readability, but also a full and powerful sound. There is thus no risk of showing up late for a race, especially since this innovative display combines playfulness with absolute clarity – since it is composed of two juxtaposed discs appearing through a large window at 9 o’clock: the rst is devoted to hours running from 1 to 12, and the second to quarter-hours.

TheThe Master Compressor Extreme W-Alarm Aston Martin watch is powered by the automatic Jaeger-LeCoultre Calibre 912 featuring a blend of reliability and a sporting nature stemming from its ability to face up to the most extreme conditions. Witness the compression key that further enhances the crown’s resistance to water and dustdust by overcompressing one of the four water-resistance gaskets; along with a sophisticated shock-absorbing case guaranteeing absolute precision in all circumstances. The splendid black dial bearing alternating red and white indicationsindications is adorned with a surface treatment evoking the grill on Aston Martin cars. The logo created by the British manufacturer to celebrate its centenary is engraved on the caseback. It also adorns the special presentation box equipped with a dedicated compartment to house a second strap supplied with the watch. Wearers can thus switch from alligator leather to rubber in one smooth move andand thus secure rmly to their wrist this generous 46.3 mm diameter titanium and stainless steel watch designed for experienced drivers.



Master Hometime Aston Martin watchThe new Aston Martin collection welcomes a model embodying Jaeger-LeCoultre’s spirit of innovation: the Master Hometime watch. Like the aerodynamic lines and innovativeinnovative technical solutions of Aston Martin cars that have been making their mark on the history of motor sports for a century, the Hometime concept developed by Jaeger-LeCoultre is a milestone opening up whole new vistas for the watchmaking art in this early 21st century. The secret of its success lies in its simple operation combinedcombined with extreme beauty. The Master Hometime Aston Martin immediately stands out for its structured black dial that has become the symbol of a partnership embodied by exceptional horological accomplishments. The sporting nature of the timepiece is accentuated by the brushed, streamlined lugs smoothly extending from the 40 mm-diameter steel case.

TheThe indications also feature the collection’s characteristic colours: black, white and a hint of red designed to instantly draw the gaze towards the sought-after information – whether the reference time that is easier to read because of the crimson-tipped openworked hand dedicated to displayingdisplaying the time zone of the place of residence. To avoid any errors of interpretation on the other side of the world, it is combined with a 24-hour counter occupying the upper part of the dial, while the lower part is devoted to the running seconds. The time indications are adjusted in one-hour increments, either forwards or backwards, in order to display local time immediately upon reaching a givengiven destination. When the traveller returns, performing the reverse adjustment as soon as the plane hits the tarmac brings the two hours hands back to their superimposed position. The eye thus perceives only one and the timepiece is once again a timepiece showing a single time zone until the next long-distance trip. Clothed in its remarkable understated livery, the elegant Master Hometime Aston Martin, powered by automatic Jaeger-LeCoultre Calibre 975H, perfectly illustrates the virtuesvirtues shared by the two brands: innovation, reliability and performance – as testied by their signatures appearing side by side at 3 o’clock.



AMVOX5 World Chronograph Cermet watchThrough the conception of its mechanism and the arrangement of the dial indications, the AMVOX5 World Chronograph Cermet guarantees absolute readability and enables at-a-glance reading of the entire range of information.information. The central chronograph hand is associated with two counters on either side of the vertical axis in order to count off the minutes and hours elapsed since the start of the measurement. The lower part of the dial is devoted to the operating indicator that testies to the smooth running of the watch and comprises the date aperture appearingappearing at its base. The inner bezel ring bears the city disc for the world time display enabling instant readings for each time zone. The dial centre is occupied by the hours and minutes hands along with the above-mentioned chronograph seconds hand. This wealth of information is perfectly legible thanks to the clear hierarchical arrangementarrangement of the classic Aston Martin colours: black, anthracite, white and red. This is a professional instrument designed to achieve high performance, as too is the automatic Jaeger-LeCoultre Calibre 752. Beating at a ffrequency of 28,800 vibrations per hour, the movement is housed within a 44 mm-diameter case that is water-resistant to 5 bar and made from a revolutionary material, reinforced cermet.

Reinforced cermetRecentlyRecently developed by research labs for high-powered race-car engines, reinforced cermet boasts a number of decisive advantages by combining performance and shock resistance with extraordinary lightness. As ever in the vanguard of innovation, Jaeger-LeCoultre has secured exclusive use of this high-tech avant-garde material in the watchmaking eld. Nonetheless, this lofty ambition called forfor a complete rethink of case design as well as production processes. No effort is spared when it comes to making a watch to meet the level of demands never before imposed on a timepiece.

This revolutionary high-tech material is composed of an aluminium core and ceramic particles, covered with a 40 micron-thick protective ceramic coating.

The ceramic microspheres are made from a crystalline powder mixed with fuel composed of gas and oxygen-enriched air. The mixture is then ignited and, as the heat given off by this combustion reaches a temperature of 2500°C, meaning above the melting point of alumina, the alumina crystals take on the shape of spherical drops. The latter are rapidly cooled down to room temperature in order to form solid particles.

In a second phase, the ceramic microspheres are mixed with aluminium powder and the product thus obtained is heated in a vacuum to 600°C to avoid any oxidation. Once this operation is complete, the aluminium is agglomerated with the ceramic microspheres and the base material is thus ready to be blanked and machined to form the case – which is then covered with a protective ceramic layer. TheThe latter operation is performed by an electrochemical process that provokes the formation of ceramics towards the outside of the case – thus ensuring extreme homogeneity between the base material and the protective coating.

The long-term partnership agreement between two brands devoted to excellence and the avant-garde takes on new intensity in this anniversary year with the presentation of these three creations resolutely on the cutting edge of technology and horological innovation.


The BMW R 90 S likewise has cause to celebrate: the BMW Motorrad design icon turns 40 this year.

AsAs a tribute to both these anniversaries, the BMW Group presented a very special model at the Concorso d’Eleganza Villa d’Este 2013: the BMW Concept Ninety. In partnership with the custom bike company Roland Sands Design, the BMW Motorrad design team has come up with an ex-clusive homage to the BMW R 90 S. Former motorcycle racer Roland Sands and his team are among the most in-demand partners in the custom bike scene. Their design standards and the technical nesse with whichwhich they implement their high-class custom and performance parts endow the BMW Concept Ninety with an exclusive and self-assured presence. This cooperative venture elevates both Roland Sands Design and BMW Motorrad Design to a new level.

years of BMW Motorrad, 90 years of two-wheeled history – hardly any other motorcycle manufacturer can boast such a longstanding and successful heritage as BMW.

BMW CONCEPT NINETY





BMW Concept NinetyThe BMW Concept Ninety resurrects this spirit of the emo-tionally charged superbike, translating the emotionality and inspiration of the earlier model into a contemporary guise. This is a modern reiteration of the traditional essence of the motorcycle: the harmonious unison of man and machine – pure and emotional. “Today BMW motorcycles stand for perfection and function. That is what we have worked hard to achieve and something we are very proud of,” says Ola Stenegard, Head of Vehicle Design BMW Motorrad. “But we want more than that. With the BMW Concept Ninety we want to show how reduced and pure an emotional BMW motorcycle can be.”

TheThe BMW Concept Ninety takes to the stage as a sporty boxer with a battery of sophisticated details. Its basic proportions clearly take their cue from the forebear that inspired this concept: the fairing, tank, seat and tail instantly signal its family bond with the BMW R 90 S. The BMW Concept Ninety also picks up on the demarcation of the bike’s proportions that was a hallmark of the time.

TheThe upper ergonomic and aerodynamic bodywork is visuallyvisually separated from the black engine and chassis. The bodywork is hand crafted from aluminium. Its brushed areas can be seen in the tinted areas of the front fairing and tank, as well as at the tail. The rich orange shade of the BMW Concept Ninety is also a nod to the legendary Daytona Orange paintwork of the BMW R 90 S. The BMW Concept Ninety delivers a very sporty interpretation of the frfront fairing.

But whereas halogen was technically cutting-edge in the BMW R 90 S era, contemporary LED elements light up the face of the BMW Concept Ninety, honouring its ancestor with a round headlamp design. Seamlessly mounted behind it, the dynamically shaped tank ensures an optimal connection between rider and machine. Further along, the tank and seat melt harmoniously into each other. A steadilysteadily ascending line from the handlebars to the tail creates a slight wedge shape, lending the BMW Concept Ninety an almost ready to attack stance when viewed from the side – like a sprinter about to explode into action. Below the bodywork sits the air-cooled at-twin boxer engine. Entirely in black with contrast cut details this section of the bike symbolises concerted power, precision and performance. The mechanics and technology as a whole are purposely rendered visible and reect a keen attention to detail.

Custom parts made by Roland Sands DesignAsAs the observer’s gaze gradually penetrates this motorcycle, more and more details are revealed. Many of the high-quality parts of the BMW Concept Ninety hail from custom bike specialists Roland Sands Design in California. In close collaboration with BMW Motorrad Design, the Roland Sands Design team designed and manufactured these parts specially for the BMW Concept Ninety. The mechanical parts and engine area, above all, bear the Roland Sands imprint. Particular attention was devoted to those elements typical of a boxer, and thus also of BMW, which were meticulously designed and elaborately nished. Key highlights include the front cover of the engine and the valve covers, that got painstakingly milled, as well as the exhaust system.


The parts were milled using a contrast cut process, which strikes an alluring contrast to the black mechanical components. This technology was also applied to the rims, whose classic design recalls the racing triumphs of the BMW R 90 S in the 1970s. The machining and technical implementation of the parts, are state of the art – like all the details on the BMW Concept Ninety. “It was importantimportant for me to translate the special statement made by the BMW R 90 S into the present through the use ofof unique parts – employing emotional design and cutting-edge technology,” says Roland Sands of his approach to the bike. Likewise designed and made by Roland Sands are the brake and clutch controls, the Paralever arm and the air lter under the seat. All these meticulously manufactured individual parts blend smoothly into the form language of the BMW Concept Ninety.

“Everything just ts together perfectly: the BMW technology, the BMW heritage and our custom parts complement each other beautifully,” comments Roland Sands on the result of this collaboration. Edgar Heinrich adds: “The BMW Concept Ninety is sheer enjoyment in every respect – from the development of the idea to the sketching stage to the construction process. But above all when you’re ridingriding it. It’s an absolute riding machine – just like the R 90 S was in its time.” Unlike other custom bikes, the BMW Concept Ninety can be – indeed begs to be – ridden. The motorcycle and all its components have been designed with top performance in mind.


Monaco and Florida prepare to welcome the world’s best

superyachts September may feel some way off for most of us, but behind the scenes, the superyacht world is busy preparing for the two key industry events of the year.

InIn around 15 weeks’ time, the world’s biggest and best luxury yachts will descend on the French principality of Monaco where they will congregate around the iconic Port Hercules for the annual Monaco Yacht Show.

OnOn a hillside high above the harbour looms the grandiose Grimaldi Palace, the ofcial residence of the Prince of Monaco and normally one of the principality’s most popular tourist sites (along, of course, with its luxury boutiques, opulent casino and decadent nightspots). But for four days in September all eyes will be temporarilytemporarily diverted to the array of oating behemoths gathered like sardines in the picturesque port.



MONACO


Founded in 1991, the show has grown to become Europe's biggest in-water display of superyachts. Primarily a trade fair attended by industry professionals, a healthy sprinkling of yachting enthusiasts and prospective yacht buyers are invariably also present. Indeed, over the years several major yacht deals have been struck at the show, and many more off the back of meetings held, and relationships developed, during the event.relationships developed, during the event.

Months ahead of the 23rd edition this year, the majority of the exhibition space has already been assigned, emphasising the industry’s vibrancy and resilience in the face of the global economic downturn, and everything points to 2013 being one of the best Monaco Yacht Shows ever.

Of course, Monaco being Monaco, the show is far more than just a gloried networking event. When night falls, the business cards are put away and the fun begins. Yacht parties run effortlessly into the early hours, with A-List celebrities often coming into town to join in the rev-elry. Monaco’s clubs and bars – and of course its iconic Casino – are also full to the brim, as an atmosphere of excess takes oveexcess takes over.

Having been present at the show for the past two years, I can conrm that it is a truly intoxicating experience.


Fort Lauderdale


When it all comes to a close, there is little respite because just a month later comes the Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show in southeast Florida. America's yachting capital, Fort Lauderdale is a tting setting for such an occasion, and is also a mecca for luxury travellers, famous for its beaches, arts, culture and high-end shopping.

Last year the show – which spans a whopping 3 million square feet of space – was said to have yielded an economic impact of $500 million for exhibitors and local businesses, and expectations are similarly positive for this year’s instalment.

OneOne aspect of the 2012 event that won’t be welcomed this year is the presence of Hurricane Sandy, which thrust its way through Fort Lauderdale during the last boat show. And yet there can be no better testament to the quality of the yachts on display that no damage was reported. Storm in a teacup? Why not nd out for yourself by dropping into Monaco or Florida later this year.

The Monaco Yacht Show runs from September 25th – 28th, and the Fort Lauderdale Boat Show takes place from October 31st – November 4th.

PaulPaul Joseph writes for www.superyachts.com, the world’s leading superyachts portal and the ofcial Breaking News Centre at the Monaco Yacht Show.


The Master of Chinese CultureThe Chinese Timekeeper


The term “jade” is applied to two different metamorphic rocks: Nephrite and Jadeite. Nephritis may be translucent, clear or slightly opaque. It can go from white to brown or even grey to green. It is found mainly in China but there are also deposits in Australia, Canada, Brazil or even Mexico.

Jadeite is the most valued of the jades for three main rreasons: its transparency, hardness and colours. It is found with nuances of green, pink, lavender, yellow, orange, brown, white, grey and black colours. Jadeite remains very difcult to handle because it is brittle and hard to manipulate. There are only 10 to 12 elds world-wide where jadeite stone can be found with the prime source being the country of Myanmar (Burma).

FindingFinding a truly pure jadeite is increasingly rare and when all specics are recognized it’s graded as Type A Jade. The reason for the use of jadeite (Type A) by The Chinese Timekeeper is not only its rareness and preciousness, but becausebecause of the myths associated with this unique stone. The Chinese Timekeeper has the honor of creating the very rst timepieces featuring indexes carved out of the purest Burmese Jade. One of the main traits of this jade is its density and strength. This is the reason why it is veryvery tricky to make specic forms without breaking the material. The Chinese timekeeper is therefore justiably proud of completing this limited edition in the exact styling that the brand originally envisaged.

CTK18 - White Jade AutomaticLimited Edition of 18 pieces

Unveiled at Baselworld 2013 The Chinese Timekeeper camecame back this year with yet another charismatic and unexpected addition to its Collection: CTK18 – White Jade Automatic.

WhiteWhite jade is rarer and more precious than its illustrious big brother, green jade! White jade has different shades and an unparalleled appeal! Once again CTK is using grade A Burmese Jade to offer a perfect contrast and greater legibility on the black dial.

ForFor one of the rst times, this illustrious material has been skillfully incorporated into a watch dial. The white jade on black, coupled with the dynamic styling found across the range of Chinese Timekeeper watches is bound to garner admiring glances.

ade is a very hard gemstone, mostly known for its green colour, used in ornamental jewellery.J

It traverses to top of the watch where it is deeply engraved on the bezel before diving below the inner ring to reappear majestically on the back dial.

Appropriately the strap is made of taupe coloured Snake skin to further celebrate the 6th animal of the Chinese Zodiac!

AsAs this is a date specic celebratory watch, it’s the perfect opportunity for watch fans to add to their collection in 2013.

CTK 17 - Celebrating the Year of the SnakeLimited Edition of 18 pieces

2013 is the Year of the Snake so it’s natural for the proudly Chinese brand to once again celebrate this unique and fascinating culture. TheThe Chinese Timekeeper, Special Edition celebrates this special year via a majestic Snake all over its case and dial … literally encircling the timepiece in an attractive, design focused way. The tail starts on the back case of this limited edition time piece and continues along each of the 4 layers of the cases structure.



Artisan manufacturer of luxury Eyepieces, Gold & Wood, illustrates the revival of the brand with three new

solar models.

Gold&Wood


Gold & Wood, the global standard for luxury eyepieces have unveiled three new solar frames: ATIK, ATRIA, and AVIOR.

Connecting timelessness with modernity, the three models strike the perfect balancebalance between the latest trends and classic style. This delicate balance between trendy and classic also rreveals Gold & Wood’s rened style, highlighting the beautiful combination of materials made possible only through Gold & Wood’s exclusive manufacturing process.

WWith their aviator-inspired face and their adjustable exotic wooden temples, handmade by artisan craftsman, these models reveal the magical connection offered by Gold & Wood Eyepieces. Gold & Wood Sunpieces, including Atik, Atria and Avior, are equipped withwith category three polarized lenses, offering the best protection for your eyes against glare and the sun’s harmful rays. They are available in three combinations of wood and precious metals: Brilliant Gold, Dark Ruthenium and Palladium associated with Carob at Brown Wenge, and Ebony.

Vincent Géré


Director of Rémy Martin Estates and Oenology.

Vincent Géré is 48 years old and lives in Echebrune, in the vineyards at the heart of Petite Champagne with his wife and two children. For the past decade, he has headed up the team at Rémy Martin, where The Cellarmaster, Estates, eau-de-vie purchasing, rresearch and development, heritage and international ambassadors’ departments all report to him.

Reena Patel got to meet with Vincent Géré to learn more about him, the world of cognacs and of course, Rémy Martin.

Vincent Géré

LM: Please describe to our readers what your position of Director of Estates & Oenology entails?

VG:VG: I am ultimately responsible for all the cognacs made by the company – their supply, production and style, from the world famous VSOP Fine Champagne to Louis XIII known as ‘the King of Cognacs’. My goal is to try to maintain the reputation Rémy Martin upholds and encapsulate the very heart, or the essence,essence, of cognacs and the quality of the spirit. We do this by sourcing and working with the best vineyards and growth areas and team of wine experts.experts. We hold a strong relationship with everyone involved to embrace the same vision of quality and have to ensure blends will reach maturity and deliver in say, 10 years, or even 50 years’ time, which is a major challenge.



LM: What are the core philosophies of brands in the Rémy Martin portfolio?

VG: Our vision is to offer cognacs with a superior quality to experience, that ‘one of a kind’ appeal - on both taste and overall drinking experience. We draw on our provenance - allowing traditional methods to develop a superior range of avours within our taste prole. The end result is a highhigh aromatic intensity with our cognacs. We aim for a balanced harmony and a smooth delivery on the palette, with a longer lasting taste impression, or experience, for the drinker. For example, we offer food pairings to en-hance our Louis XIII edition and create an extension on the pleasure of discerning cognac drinking.

LM: You recently launched the Louis XIII Rare Cask 42,6 in India. What makes this edition so special and why was this country chosen for the unveiling?

VG:VG: We wanted to choose a destination that ts in well with the astonishing and extraordinary quality of this ‘king of cognacs’, which has been available to enjoy since 1874 and has lasted the test of time. We see Louis XIII as a miracle borne out of true craftsmanship from both the cellar master and the best that mother nature can give you. The location of Udaipur appealed to us for its rich historyhistory and ostentatious palaces and was the ideal venue to gather our key opinion leaders from the four corners of the world. Louis XIII is seen by us and by many as royalty and so we felt that it should be treated as such.

LM: How is the cognac market performing in the UK and abroad, and how do you see the future of this during a challenging economic climate?

VG:VG: The superior cognac market in which Rémy Martin sits is positive in the UK and we believe this will remain the same even during a difcult economic time. We host a number of events and employ brand ambassadors to help communicate our key messages to continue to both engage and educate cognac drinkers about Rémy Martin.

LM:LM: Who are your typical customers in terms of age, profession, and geographical reach?

VG: For us, there is not one typical type of consumer. The age and geographical region and lifestyle is hugely diverse. Instead, they share the same ideals; to only live once, to spoil yourself from time to time and to be audaciousaudacious and ambitious enough to enjoy the ner things in life. Our customers are also eager to understand more about our background, expertise and it’s not just built purely on status.

LM: What is your biggest luxury in life?

VG:VG: I believe that to term something truly luxurious is anything that is proven by time and holds a sense of value to the person who owns it, or experiences it. I am an epicurean and so my most enriching experience is a great table – a freshly prepared meal with good company around you.

LM: How important is the UK market to you?

VG: We place a lot of importance on the UK market because it attracts a high level of visibility for premium drinkers but we equally balance our focuses on other parts of the world and Europe, such as our homeland of France and Germany.

LM:LM: Where can I purchase a glass of the Rare Cask 42,6 in the UK and how much will it cost?

VG: The unique Louis XIII Rare Cask 42,6 is available exclusively by the glass in great establishments such as The Arts Club, Claridges, 45 Park Lane and The Dorchester.

LM: Also where can I purchase the Rare Cask 42,6 decanter in the UK?decanter in the UK?

VG: Louis XIII Rare Cask 42,6 can be purchased at ne wine & spirit boutiques such as Harrods or Hedonism Wines for RRP £19,995.

www.remymartin.com


is to be produced, celebrating ve decades of race-winning technology and expertise of the British brand. Production of the McLaren 50 12C will be strictly limited to a maximum of 100 globally, split between just 50 examples of the 12C and 50 of the 12C Spider. The McLaren 50 12C and McLaren 50 12C Spider featufeature a number of bespoke styling and specication enhancements to mark the milestone event, which will be celebrated on 2 September. These have been produced by McLaren Special Operations (MSO), the division of McLaren Automotive responsible for the delivery of bespokebespoke projects, in conjunction with the McLaren Automotive design team led by Design Director, Frank Stephenson.

s part of the continued celebrations for the 50th anniversary of McLaren, a commemorative modelA

Limited EditionMclaren 5012C and 12C Spider

A maximum of 50 examples of each of the 12C and 12C Spiderare to be built featuring unique styling and specication enhancements

Revisions include a remodelled, CFD (Computational Fluid Dynamics)-optimised front bumper from MSO, which provides increased levels of front downforce, and is inspired by the limited-run HS Edition models, to create a more dynamic visual impact. The lower section of the colour-coded bumper, framing the air intakes, is constructedconstructed from carbon bre, while the front oor is made from race-derived carbon Kevlar. Above the bumper, a black McLaren F1-inspired heritage badge, previously only available to MSO clients, is also tted on the bonnet. AsAs standard, the McLaren 50 12C and 12C Spider models are tted with the carbon ceramic brake upgrade, with 394x36mm discs at the front, and 380x34mm at the rear. Offering enhanced stopping power, these sit behind bespoke McLaren 50 Ultra Lightweight wheels nished in Satin Black.


This unique design, 19-inch at the front and 20-inch at the rear, offers a combined 2kg saving over the optional Super Lightweight wheels.

InsideInside the cabin, the McLaren 50 12C models are upholstered with a full leather upgrade, while subtle branding to the carbon bre sill panel and oor mats is complimented by an anniversary dedication plate on the driver’s door which highlights the limited run.

Available in one of three striking colour nishes: Carbon Black, Supernova Silver, Heritage McLaren Orange

EachEach of the McLaren 50 models will be presented with a monogrammed black and silver car cover, limited edition key, carbon bre presentation key box and a specially commissioned print signed by McLaren Automotive Design Director, Frank Stephenson.


Exclusive Luxurious Magazine Interview With

Edward EislerFounder And Owner Of JING Tea


A seriously seasoned ne and rare British tea expert, his mission is to redene the modern tea ceremony, drawing on Asia’s rich source of ancient and cultural tea rituals.

JING teas can be enjoyed within the world’s most celebrated restaurants and ve star global hotels, includingincluding the Mandarin Oriental, Park Hyatt, InterContinental and Starwood Hotels and Resorts. Edward himself also is also the tea advisor to Michelin star chefs such as Heston Blumenthal (Fat Duck and Dinner, UK), Thomas Keller (Per Se, New York), Joel Robuchon (A’telier Robuchon) and Pierre Gagnaire (Sketch) to name a few. He offers signature training and consultancyconsultancy on the art and science of tea service and how to serve the perfect cup of tea every time. Edward also held the UK’s rst Tea Sommelier course, attended by leading hotels including The Savoy, Brown’s and the Ritz.

JING - meaning ‘essence’ in Mandarin, is also the name of the sophisticated British tea company set up by Edward Eisler.

LM: What inspired you to enter the world of tea?

EE: I rmly believe that tea should be one of the pleasures of every day life. I was primarily inspired by culture, especiallyespecially the quality and form of tea cultures in China and Japan, coupled with the rich history and devotion to tea in the UK. China has long been the heart and home of tea and supported the luxury tea sector. In fact, some 10,000 varieties are produced in domestic China, with the highest level of tea connoisseurship ingrained within its very roots.

I felt that it was time to elevate British tea culture to embraceembrace such Far Eastern traditions. Teas should embody the essence of its origin within its taste, alongside the living culture that supports it. I love to travel and have extensively [over 100,000 miles in the last three years alone] to source exceptional teas.

Reena Patel met with Edward over a hot brew at London’s Sketch to nd out more.


JING is served in restaurants including those by Heston Blumenthal, Gordon Ramsay, Pierre Gagnaire and Joel Robuchon and in the nest luxury hotels including select Mandarin Oriental, Rocco Forte Collection and Ritz Carlton properties


LM: Tell us how you try to ensure the perfect cup of tea is served every time?

EE: All of JING’s teas are carefully selected from a range of denitive tea growers across Asia. As well as all the efforts that go into sourcing and producing our teas, for the ultimateultimate experience, we have designed elegant teaware made from the highest quality bone china and glass, known as ‘JING ware’. It is meant to replace old-fashioned teapots, which can commonly ‘stew’ teas rather than steep them well to enjoy them at their best.

LM: What is the most expensive tea you currently offer?

EE:EE: The fashionable and highly sought-after JING Wild Wuyi Gold tea. A favourite amongst Beijing connoisseurs, Wild Wuyi Gold is renowned for its rich, seamless and complete avour – syrupy with malty and honey-like notes. Handpicked by artisans from ancient 100-year-old trees in the Fujian region of China, it is so exclusive it costs £90 forfor 10g, which equates to £30 per cup, making it the most expensive black tea available in the UK.

LM: What is your favourite tea from the JING range?

EE: For me, tea is both a way to relax and enjoy life, dependingdepending on the mood and occasion, so I have more than one favourite. I like to drink oolong, specically Traditional Iron Buddha, which is deeply satisfying with its sweet honey character and peachiness. I also enjoy Lishan, named after a highly scenic area in Taiwan. It is a real contrast to the aforementioned oolong, with its fresh, high oral notes and is refreshingly delicious.

I also enjoy puerh teas [only made in the south of Yunnan Province in China]. They are best when aged and can be worth up to £100,000 per kilo. Another is Cassia, a re-ned, complex tea with ample richness and unexpected citrus aromas.

LM: Where is your ideal luxurious destination?

EE: As well as my deep level of interest in China, I also love Italy for similar reasons: the food, environment, people and the culture.

LM: What is your biggest luxury in life?

EE:EE: Living. Embracing cultures and rituals, which I feel are fast diminishing in society, knowing how to under-stand what is good produce and equally, how to relate such time honoured traditions to modern day life. I also feel a big luxury is to have your own kitchen garden, where you can grow your own fruits and vegetables and then cook, or prepare meals with them. It’s deeply gratifying and a valuable asset that is easily accessible to many.

LM: Who is your favourite luxury designer?

EE: I really appreciate John Smedley for his understated pieces with high grade, quality materials used. The cottons are superior and crafted well and that for me is hugely importantimportant when sourcing great products, no matter what they are.

JING Wild Wuyi Gold and all other JING teas areavailable to purchase from www.jingtea.com


Dusit Thani Maldives Introduces All-Inclusive Indulgence Package.Dusit Thani Maldives offers a premium dining plan crafted to provide a complete vacation on a secluded hideaway. The Pure Indulgence Package takes care of everything guests need for a luxury holiday in one all-inclusive bundle.

TheThe Pure Indulgence Package is well-suited for couple getaways and family holidays. Children below 12 years old can share their parents’ villa at no extra cost while enjoying additional benets including free meals in operational res-taurants, use of children’s bicycles and a variety of fun-lled island activities.

Kempinski Hotels Opens Grand Kempinski Hotel Shanghai.The former Gran Meliá Hotel in Shanghai has been taken over and rebranded as the Grand Kempinski Hotel. The ofcial reagging of the 678-room Gran Meliá Hotel Shanghai took place in May this year.

KempinskiKempinski Hotels, the oldest European luxury hotel group, has signed an agreement with Shanghai Suncuba Co. Ltd to take over the management of the Gran Meliá Hotel Shanghai in Pudong, Shanghai. Opened in February 2010, the Grand Kempinski Hotel Shanghai on 15 May 2013 is now the group’s 18th property in China.

TTogether with The ONE Executive Suites, which launched earlier in 2012 in the Puxi district, Kempinski now has a presence on both sides of the Huangpu River in China’s most cosmopolitan city.

New Ludus Magnus Suite Offers Monumental Views Of Rome’s Colosseum.Palazzo Manfredi Rome of The Manfredi Fine Hotel Collection has announced the opening of the new Ludus Magnus Suite, which offers magnicent views of the Colosseum with 60sqm of luxury that combines Roman opulence with contemporary design.

LocatedLocated in the heart of Imperial Rome with unparalleled views over the ancient city, the Colosseum, the Imperial Forum and the Domus Aurea, this 17th Century Palazzo boasts a rooftop terrace and restaurant ‘Aroma’ with 360 degree views.

travel Tidbits



Le Meurice Launches New Banqueting Packages.Dorchester Collection's Le Meurice is delighted to announce the launch of its four new banqueting packages. These includeinclude a private wine tasting; a private cocktail competition; a grand dinner inspired by Marie Antoinette; and a Rossini Dinner combining Rossini's music and recipes. Situated in the heart of Paris and just a short stroll from the city's most famous landmarks, Le Meurice provides the ideal environment for business and client entertainment.

EachEach of the packages will be tailored to suit guests' specic needs. A knowledgeable team is on hand to offer the highest standards of service in the planning and running of every event.

Honeymoon at Huka Lodge.There are few places in the world that offer such a perfect setting as Huka Lodge for a truly romantic honeymoon.OOffering absolute privacy and an elegant luxury, Huka Lodge has created a new two night Honeymoon offer which indulges those new bridal couples in search of the perfect post-wedding escape.

This Honeymoon stay is also available with accommodation at the Owner's Cottage and Alan Pye Cottage. Rates cancan be provided on request. Helicopter transfers are also available and prices can be advised accordingly. Huka Lodge is a sister property to Dolphin Island, Fiji and Grande Provence Estate, South Africa. All three properties comprise The Huka Retreats and are the vision of their founder, entrepreneur Alex van Heeren.

Sani Resort in Greece Introduces New Red Wine Inspired Spa Treatments.ExtendingExtending their spa offerings for the 2013 season, Sani Resort in Greece is now offering a selection of new wine inspired treatments for spa dwellers. Carefully prepared by bespoke beauty brand Anne Semonin, the new Oeneotherapy treatments have been inspired by the red grapes in French red wine, famed for their anti-oxidant elements.elements. The new treatments are available at all of Sani Resort’s three spas, a little piece of Grecian paradise on the Halkidiki peninsula of the Aegean Coast.

The new Anne Semonin Oenotherapy Collection is available at My Spa (Sani Beach Hotel), The Club Spa (Sani Beach Club) and The Spa Suite (Porto Sani Village) all located in the 1000 acre eco-enclave of Sani Resort.

WWith four ve star hotels to choose from at Sani Resort, guests are welcome to enjoy any of the spas they choose. A family favourite holiday spot, whilst parents are getting some ‘me time’ in the spa, children can enjoy the new football academy, extensive children’s club or 7km of white sand beach.

Exclusive Luxurious Magazine Interview:

NICHOLAS DEAN

icholas Dean is a joint Managing Partner and majority owner of OCEAN Independence, one of the world’s largest and fastest growing luxury yacht brokerage rms. FoundedN


LM: What is your background in the marine sector?

ND:ND: I started working in the yachting industry aged 19 at Brighton Marina, which was at the time the largest man-made marina in Europe. Being involved at the start of such a massive project and the laying out of 2,300 berths with all the associated land-based shops and ofces, the new boatyard and everything else was just fantastic, and a time in my life that I will never forget.

Everyone involved was of the same mind – yachting was the love of their life and everything else came second. After only six months working at Brighton Marina I sold my rst yacht, a Trapper 28, for £4,500. I have now been in the yacht brokering industry for over 35 years.

LM: How does OCEAN Independence differ from other yacht brokerage rms?

ND:ND: OCEAN Independence is one of the largest yacht brokerage rms in the world, and as a full-service company it covers all aspects of owning, chartering, buying, selling, building and managing private or charter yachts.

OCEANOCEAN Independence is set apart from its competitors due to its global reach. With its sixteen ofces world-wide employing ninety staff of twenty-ve nationalities/ languages, it benets from local know-how and multi-cultural under-standing. The ethos of OCEAN Independence is ‘global vision, local insight’, which sums up its competitive edge well.

OCEANOCEAN Independence is an advice-driven company rather than a sales business with a truly international structure. Our model has been to grow both organically and through acquisition, and no other yacht brokerage rm has followed the same path.

LM: What have been the biggest achievements of OCEAN Independence during the last ve years?

ND:ND: The biggest achievements as of today have been in creating the largest eet of charter yachts in the world, with 132 in total. OCEAN Independence is also proud of being in the top three or four companies in terms of sales, a position the company has held since 2006, just one year after its launch.

ThisThis is all due to its greatest achievement of creating a dynamic team of industry professionals to advise its clients.

LM: The recent ‘Legends in London’ event saw the rare display of the America’s Cup, and its prestigious challenger, the Louis Vuitton Cup side-by-side. What did this signify for you personally?

ND:ND: Personally, having the two Cups together after many years for OCEAN Independence’s ‘Legends in London’ event was like a dream come true, having followed the America’s Cup since I was a child. It was a great honour bestowed on OCEAN Independence that both the America’s Cup Race Management and Louis Vuitton team went to the enormous effort of bringing the Cups to London for the event. London for the event.

It was a very rare occurrence, and wonderful for OCEAN Independence to share with everyone present on the evening and with clients new and old.

LM: What are you most looking forward to about this year’s America’s Cup which this year departs from San Francisco?

ND: I am mostly looking forward to seeing the sensational foiling AC72s in full race action. Just the thought of an 80 knot closing speed with a crew of eleven people is enough to make me break out into a sweat!

in January 2005, the company now has 16 ofces across the globe. We caught up with him to nd out more.



Cont: To actually be there through the ‘Super Yacht Programme’, that unites competitive sailing with the height of luxury yachting, with access to the best vantage point of the course, will be a truly memorable event. These are the most extreme sailing yachts ever being raced by the best sailors in the world - this is the equivalent of Formula 1 on water!

LM:LM: How do you view the superyacht sector performing in 2013?

ND:ND: In terms of charter business, OCEAN Independence is seeing a gradual increase, and clients who have held back for the last few years are coming back to charter yachts for private holidays or corporate purposes. In the sales area, the recovery will take a little longer, as is always the case, so there are still plenty of exceptional deals to be had in the market. OCEAN Independence is certainly en-couragedcouraged by the development of markets outside of the US and Europe, such as China and South America, and continue to look for opportunities on a worldwide scale rather than just within the traditional areas where there is less growth.

LM: ‘Azzam’, the world’s largest superyacht was un-veiled a few weeks ago. Do you think the rivalry to have the biggest ever vessel has gone one step too far or do you admire it for its beauty and craftsmanship?

ND: Regarding Azzam, I am a rm believer that if it were not for a section of owners pushing the boundaries of yacht construction in terms of size and design, not for a section of owners pushing the boundaries of yacht construction in terms of size and design, the industry would end up standing still.

Many aspects of the construction process are then used in other areas of the yachting industry; traditional design ideas are challenged and a huge number of skilled people are employed to create such a complex masterpiece. I think every industry needs constant innovation, competition and drive for development, and if this happens to be betweenbetween certain owners vying to have the largest luxury yacht aoat, then we should be celebrating the long-term benet to the industry as a whole.

LM: What have been your most extravagant purchases and are you a collector of any rare artefacts?

ND:ND: I am not a collector of anything, but do love the thought of driving through the country lanes in an old Bentley so that might be the next indulgence!

LM: What is your favourite superyacht destination, and if money was no object which vessel would you purchase?

ND:ND: In terms of my favourite destination, there are just so many areas that are beyond belief where yachts can cruise. However, areas in South East Asia, such as Thailand would probably get my vote. Not only is the cruisingcruising sensational but life ashore could not be much better either. A destination nearer to home would be Croatia, which is the jewel in the crown for cruising. If money was no limit, I would buy the latest 91.5m Oceanco that is currently under construction at the shipyard, with an Andrew Winch Designs interior. The concept, style, space and just the whole package is stunning.The asking price is €175,000,000!The asking price is €175,000,000!

www.oceanindependence.com

Meridian Explorer enhances computer audioRevealed at CES 2013, the Explorer is a pocket-sized high-resolution USB DAC from Meridian that delivers superiorsuperior sound from any computer, whether PC or Apple. Featuring a range of connectivity, the Explorer can be used in a variety of applications from private headphone listen-ing to full system playback. The accessory essentially replaces a computer’s sound card with a USB-powered DAC featuring Meridian’s award-winning resolution enhancement technologies, and makes any audio le, from MP3 to high resolution, sound its very best. The Explorer costs £249.00 including VAT.

Limited edition 24 ct gold iPhone 5 by Mansory and Golden DreamsGoldenGolden Dreams, the Swiss luxury iPhone 5 customisation company, and Mansory, the world famous luxury car tuning business, used the recent BaselWorld to unveil a stunning limited edition 24ct gold iPhone 5 which is restricted to only 50 units worldwide. It is priced at €4,900.00 (around £4,100.00) including German VAT.

Tech TidbitsHublot and Monster collaborate for new headphonesSwiss luxury watchmaker Hublot, and Monster, the worldworld leader in high-performance personal audio, have combined the very best in high delity audio with the nest watchmaking craftsmanship and materials to create Inspiration™ Hublot, a luxury noise cancelling headphone that offers an unprecedented music listening and lifestyle experience. The partnership between Monster and Hublot is born from a shared passion for music, ahead-of-the-curve design, advanced materials, and ultimate perfor-mance. The lightweight, rock-solid black and carbon ber Inspiration™ Hublot over-ear headphones are available at Hublot boutiques and ne retailers worldwide.


Security “to go”: Döttling safes with integrated, portable jewelry boxOneOne can hardly safeguard precious gems more stylishly and individually than in a safe from Döttling, the Maichingen safe manufactory. Now the Swabian safe spe-cialists have expanded their portfolio – and with it, also the security radius of their products, as it were – with a small but ne detail, in the truest sense of the word: the portable jewelry box integrated into the safe.


The design of the jewelry box has been adapted to the re-spective safe and its look. In combination with the Bel-Air-Black, for example, the jewelry box is completely manufactured in black, like the safe, and covered with the nest calf leather. Moreover, as with all Döttling products, there are no limits set on customer wishes in terms of fea-tures and materials.

A GPS tracking device is integrated into the jewelry box. If the jewelry box is located inside the respective safe, a dock-ing station provides power to the transmitter. If it is removed from the safe, the GPS signal ensures that the jewelry box can be located precisely around the world at any time. With dimensions of just 21 x 20 x 26.5 cm, the jewelry box is also extremely compact – proof that bright ideas do not neces-sarily require a lot of space.

Since its foundation in 1985 by CEO Flemming E. Rasmussen, Gryphon Audio Designs of Denmark has earned a worldwide reputation for state of the art performance, intuitive ergonomics and stunning aesthetic design. The Gryphon is one of few high end marques to offer complete system solutions incorporating digital sources, amplication and loudspeakers.

PPremiered in late prototype form at the Munich 2013 High End Show in Germany, Europe’s oldest audio exhibition, the Gryphon Audio Designs Trident II Reference Loudspeaker System, priced at €97,000 (plus local taxes) was met with universal acclaim. The ofcial release of this model marks a rare addition to the Gryphon portfolio.

TheThe Gryphon Trident II incorporates specially developed constant phase technologies to ensure that all drivers are in phase at all frequencies at all times. Compared to its predecessor, Gryphon Trident II is housed in a stylish slimmer, taller, massively braced enclosure with precisely contoured bafe and driver surrounds and bafe covering carefully selected and applied to effectively address bafe reections and eliminate diffraction phenomena. The most crucial upgrade in Trident II is perhaps the implementation of an AMT (Air Motion Transformer) high frequency driver with minimal mass forfor instantaneous response to the audio signal. Active bass also allows the owner to select the ideal amplier for the upper frequency range without having to worry about deep-bass power demands.

www.gryphon-audio.com

The Beauty of Sound:The Gryphon Trident II Reference Loudspeaker System



“ Gryphon has never felt the need to constantly replace the product line-up to suit the changing seasons. Our observation has been that most “Mark 2” versions are simply trivial bug xes promoted as major breakthroughs. We prefer to expend the necessary effort and resources to get things right the rst time. That is why Gryphon products have an exceptionally long lifespan both in the market-place and in the home. In the case of the Trident, we identied specic areas in which technological advances made real improvements possible, so it made sense to pass them on to music lovers. ”

CEO Flemming E. Rasmussen



Nestled right in the heart of the city, IMPIANA KLCC HOTEL is positioned among prominent landmarks including the majestic PETRONAS Twin Towers and the ultra-modern Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre. Travelers seeking a refreshing change from the typical run-of-the-mill hotel will nd that perfect balance between business and leisure, technology and the human touch, all within the IMPIANA KLCC HOTEL.KLCC HOTEL.

Cradled amidst Kuala Lumpur’s most exciting entertainment and shopping area and just steps away from the business heart of the city, the 25-storey four-star business class deluxe hotel is an ideal venue to host seminars, confer-ences, private functions and parties.

The hotel’s attention to detail is not only reected in the meticulously designed interior intended to capture the elegance and simplicity and modern conveniences of today, but most signicantly the true warmth and hospitality that is the Impiana signature.

Places to stay in Kuala Lumpur City Centre, Malaysia.

The hip, young and contemporary personality translates into traits that distinguish it from others. An Impiana guest will be assured of service second to none with profes-sionalism, friendliness, enthusiasm, and speed being all part of the equation.

With a total of 519 rooms, guests have a choice of elegantly appointed Superior, Deluxe (king and twin) and Junior Suites ranging in size from 30sqm to 60sqm at the current block and Club rooms and suites on the new Club Tower. Be spoilt for choice as you relax in tastefully designed rooms with internet access (includes Wi-Fi) and rst class and up-to-date amenities.

www.impiana.comT : 03 2147 1111T : 03 2147 1111F : 03 2142 6303

Club Room Benets* Exclusive Access from 6.30am – 11.00pm* Private Check-In and Check-Out* Daily Buffet Breakfast either at Club Lounge or Tonka Bean* Afternoon Snacks inclusive Of Baskin Robin Ice-Cream from 3.00pm – 5.00pm* Evening Cocktail at Club Lounge from 6.00pm – 7.30pm* Unlimited Usage of B* Unlimited Usage of Broadband / WiFi* Usage Of Discussion Room Daily For 2 Hours* Secretarial Services from 9.00am - 9.00pm* 20% Discount on Food & Beverages* 20% Discount on Laundry Services (Excluding Express Service & Dry Cleaning)

For those in need of deeper relaxation, the stylish, award-winning Swasana Spa beckons. Here, you can surrender to your senses - not only the body will thank you, so will its rejuvenated psyche.


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Luxurious Magazine - Summer 2013 Edition

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