TIME TRAVEL

A Journey Through Time VII

A MOVEABLE

FEASTThe Best of Feast Village

'TIS THE SEASONYour Personal

Gift Guide

JAN/MAR 2014

Looks That Inspire Passion & Affection

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6 Glance The ‘It” List this season.

8 A Time to Treasure The recent A Journey Through Time VII proved to be a stellar celebration of time and all things bright and beautiful.

14 Under The Midday Sun The Midday group exhibition, which featured the works of seven talented artists, proved to be a most enlightening experience.

16 Starting With A Bang Louis Vuitton kicks off 2014 in style with the reopening of its recently renovated global flagship store.

18 Top 10 Statuesque beauty and tireless philanthropist Deborah Priya Henry shares her favourite things about Starhill Gallery.

20 A Beautiful Mind Manuel Emch, CEO of RJ-Romain Jerome, shares how unconventional thinking has propelled the Swiss watch brand to success.

24 Creatively Different Fired with a desire to write his own chapter in horology, Hautlence co-founder and CEO, Guillaume Tetu, explains how the young watch brand has survived and thrived.

26 In the Mood for Love Channel your inner oriental temptress with these head-turning looks that’ll take you from a traditional reunion dinner to a romantic night out à deux in style.

36 Objects Of Desire Inject a splash of riotous red or passionate pink in all your accoutrements to ensure this Valentine’s Day spells romance.

42 Treasure Chest Feel like a princess whenever you put one of these bejewelled babies on.

46 He’s Got the Voice! Talented young Australian Mark Vincent wowed the crowd recently when he performed at the finale of A Journey Through Time VII.

ON THE COVERGreen rose print and lace-print taffeta black satin bow waistband, REDValentino [[

Contents

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ForewordHappy New Year and what a start it’s already been! We trust you ended 2013 with a bang and we look forward to welcoming you to another year of fun, luxury, fashion and finesse at Starhill Gallery. In this issue, we’re looking at life through rose-tinted eyes and why not? Romance is certainly in the air for most of us and we invite you to show your affection with a host of wonderful things found at the many boutiques within Starhill Gallery. The team has picked out several choice items, from quirky red-hued fashions by Kenzo, to interesting accoutrements for the home by Debenhams, accessories by Khoon Hooi and heady scents by luxury perfumer Amouage, you’ll find all things to touch the heart and then some.

For the horological cognoscenti, don’t miss our exclusive profiles with the leading men behind top watchmaking brands RJ-Romain Jerome and Hautlence. There’s also a special piece on the new Louis Vuitton Global Store, which opens in January 2014 and certainly one of the key events in Kuala Lumpur’s style and social calendars. Don’t miss it! Our fashion spread this issue also stars Shir Chong, one of Malaysia’s most recognisable faces. For Oriental-accented looks that are certain to be a hit at family reunion dinners or even a Valentine’s Day date, turn to page 26 for inspiration. La vie en rose? Absolutely.

Joseph YeohJoseph YeohVice President,YTL Land Sdn Bhd &YTL Hotels and Properties.

Editorial tEamEditor-in-ChiEf Diana KhooSUB Editor Christy Yoong Pr & MarkEting ManagEr Rachel YongPr & MarkEting ExECUtivEHo Shiau San SEnior graPhiC dESignEr Wirda Nokman

art tEamCrEativE dirECtor Eireen Ooiart dirECtor Sheila CheahgraPhiC dESignEr Yvonne Low

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A Gallery of Rich Experiences

No part of this magazine may be reproduced without the written permission of YTL Corporation. All rights reserved. Opinions expressed in Starhill are the writers’ and not necessarily endorsed by YTL Corporation and/or Blu Inc Media Sdn Bhd. They are not responsible or liable in any way for the content in any of the advertisements, articles, photographs or illustrations contained in this publication. Editorial enquiries and enquiries concerning advertising and circulation should be addressed to Blu Inc Media Sdn Bhd. YTL Corporation and Blu Inc Media Sdn Bhd accept no responsibility for unsolicited manuscripts, photographs, illustrations and any other such materials. The Editorial Team reserves the right to edit and/or re-write all materials according to the needs of the publication upon usage. Unsolicited materials will not be returned unless accompanied by suficient return postage.

ChiEf ExECUtivE offiCErDatin Azliza Ahmad TajuddinSEnior ConSUltant Loo Kit Choong gEnEral ManagEr, BUSinESS dEvEloPMEnt and nEw MEdiaMohd Faizal Abdul Hadi

Inject a luxurious dose of East meets West into your Lunar New Year look with these show-stopping pieces by Madrid’s

iconic jewellers, Carrera y Carrera.

The ‘It’ List

With over 125 years of tradition in f ine jewel lery-making, the house of Carrera y Carrera has firmly established itself as one of the go-to brands for prestigious, exquisitely made jewellery. A true icon in the world of jewellery, each piece is crafted with heart, soul and a distinctively unique style, matched only by the imagination and verve of its master craftsmen. For this Lunar New Year, consider bringing a brilliant dose of Spanish art into your ensemble with this attention-arresting Bambu necklace. Considered a symbol of good luck in many Eastern cultures, you may also wish to add to the look with other bamboo-inspired pieces, including rings, pendants, cocktail rings and earrings, all crafted using the finest white and yellow gold as well as sprinklings of diamonds and onyx.

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A Time to

TreasureThe recent conclusion of A Journey Through Time VII proved to be a stellar

celebration of time and all things bright and beautiful.

Photography Ting Yang Shan2

It w a s a n e i g h t - d a y

extravaganza of watches and

baubles, to say the least, but

the recent conclusion of A Journey Through Time VII, the region’s grandest watch

and jewellery showcase, was indeed

a triumph of time and treasures.

Endorsed by Malaysia’s Ministry of

Tourism and Culture, the seventh

edition of A Journey Through Time

awed watch and jewellery enthusiasts,

who travelled from all over the region

to Kuala Lumpur, with unique and

breathtaking displays of the latest and

most unique pieces from the world’s

best brands. One of the highlights

of the event was, undoubtedly, the

unveiling of the winners of the Starhill

Gallery Watch and Jewellery of the

Year Awards, of which there were

seven distinct categories.

Taking home the evening’s first award was the august house of Jaeger-LeCoultre, whose Reverso Cordonnet Duetto won the Starhill Gallery Favourite Ladies Watch Award, followed by Maîtres du Temps’ Chapter Three: Reveal for

the men’s category. Next up was the exciting Starhill Gallery Watch with Complications in Movement Award, which went to the awe-inspiring Masterpiece MP-O5 “LaFerrari” by Hublot. The Art Deco-rific elegance of Bedat & Co’s Ref 327.555.909

1. The elegant Ref 327 timepiece by Bedat & Co. 2. Models displaying a dazzling collection of watches and jewellery. 3. YTL Corporation's Tan Sri Dato' Dr Francis Yeoh. 4. Reigning Miss Malaysia/Universe 2013 Carey Ng, Antoine Bakhache and Dato'Sri Dr Ng Yen Yen. 5. Guests were gifted with boxes of fine chocolates by Armani/Dolci.

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took home the title for the YTL Spirit of Classical Art Award, while Speake-Marin’s Spirit Mark 2 won the Judges’ Choice Award, a new category for 2013. Exquisite jewels took the limelight after this as a parade of gems, fit for queens, were paraded by a bevy of beauties, including the statuesque Thanuja Ananthan and reigning Miss Malaysia/Universe 2013 Carey Ng, who wore the traffic-stopping L’Incomparable, a USD55million stunner by Mouawad and certified by the Guinness World Records as the most valuable necklace in the world. Damiani and Mouawad emerged triumphant in their respective categories, which were the Starhill Gallery Timeless Jewellery Award and Tourism Malaysia’s Most Revered Award.

The event also saw the showcasing of precious pieces by the house of Garrard, a new tenant in Starhill Gallery’s line-up of top-flight brands. Dubbed the oldest jewellery brand in the world, having been in operation since 1735, its pieces have adorned British royalty for centuries and the new Garrard store in Starhill marks its first standalone boutique outside of the United Kingdom – truly a feather in Starhill’s cap and

6. Speake-Marin's Spirit Mark 2. 7. Tan Sri Dato' Dr Francis Yeoh, Dani Maurice and Samer Halimeh. 8. The founder of Maîtres du Temps, Steven Holtzman receiving the Starhill Gallery Favourite Men Watch Award from Hirota Masayuki, one of the panel judges. 9 Dariush Djavaheri, Area Commercial Manager for Speake-Marin receiving the Judges' Choice Award from YTL Hotels and Properties Vice President Joseph Yeoh.

10. Datuk Yasmin Yusuff, host for the night. 11. Rashid Wahab and Tasha Abdullah. 12. Cecil Purnell's Lady Lacroix. 13. Su Jia Xian and Jeremiah Tan. 14. Mark Vincent entertains.

“ A Journey Through Time VII, the region’s grandest watch and

jewellery showcase, was indeed a triumph of time and treasures.” [[

THE JUDGES Tan Sri Dato’ Dr Francis Yeoh,

Managing Director of YTL Corporation Berhad.

Joseph Yeoh, Vice President of YTL Land, YTL Hotels and Properties and member of the board of Starhill REIT.

Su Jia Xian, Singapore-based watch journalist and blogger.

Hirota Masayuki, renowned Japanese watch expert and collector and regular contributor to Chronos Japan.

Rainer Sigel, publisher of Solitaire, one of Asia-Pacific’s most esteemed jewellery magazines.

Charles Sutanto, Jakarta-based independent watch collector and enthusiast.

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WALL OF FAMEThe Watch & Jewellery Awards Nominees and Winners of 2013.

Starhill Gallery Favourite Ladies Watch Award: The Reverso Cordonnet Duetto by Jaeger-LeCoultre (Winner); Arceau Le Temps Suspendu by Hermès; Lady Lacroix by Cecil Purnell; Ladymatic by Omega; Big Bang Jeans Carat by Hublot.

Starhill Gallery Favourite Men’s Watch Award: Chapter Three:Reveal by Maîtres du Temps (Winner); Avant-Garde HL RQ01 by Hautlence; Ref 888.010.110 by Bedat & Co; Spacecraft by Romain Jerome; Spirit Mark 2 by Speake-Marin.

Starhill Gallery Watch with Complications in Movement Award: Masterpiece MP-O5 “LaFerrari” by Hublot (Winner); Master Compressor Extreme Lab 2 by Jaeger-LeCoultre; Masterpiece Seconde Mysterieuse by Maurice Lacroix; Magnum Tourbillon T-14 by Rebellion; Moon Orbiter by Romain Jerome.

Judges’ Choice Award: Spirit Mark 2 by Speake-Marin (Winner).

The YTL Spirit of Classical Art Award: Ref 327.555.909 by Bedat & Co (Winner); LS8 by Armand Nicolet; Arceau H Cube by Hermès; Classic Fusion Skeleton Tourbillon Black Ceramic by Hublot; Triad by Speake-Marin.

Starhill Gallery Timeless Jewellery Award: The Sophia Loren necklace by Damiani (Winner); the Royal Diamond necklace by Ceres; Emerald & Diamond necklace by Garrard; Belize necklace by Gübelin; Rosette Collection necklace by Mouawad.

Tourism Malaysia Most Revered Award: L’Incomparable necklace by Mouawad (Winner); the Royal Curl necklace by Ceres; Sophia Loren watch by Damiani; Emerald & Diamond necklace by Garrard; Classical necklace by Gübelin.

cementing its position as one of the most premium shopping destinations in the world. The event culminated with a show-stopping performance by Mark Vincent, the fresh-faced 2009 winner of Australia’s Got Talent. Just 20 years of age, his youthful looks belied the powerful yet dulcet voice that lay within, thrilling the audience with a medley of traditional Italian favourites like O Sole Mio, Nessun Dorma and the Neapolitan Funiculi, Funicula.

15. Models and award recipients joining Mark Vincent on stage as he sings the final song of the night. 16. The winning timepiece Hublot MP-05 "LaFerrari" for the Starhill Gallery Watch with Complications in Movement Award. 17. Hirota Masayuki, Dato' Yeoh Soo Min, Dato' Sri Dr Ng Yen Yen, Dato' Jimmy Choo and Mark Vincent. 18. Reena Tan from Jaeger-LeCoultre receiving the Starhill Gallery Favourite Ladies Watch Award from panel judge Charles Sutanto.

19. Tan Boon Piin, Dr Kenny Chan, Amy Chia and Yon Shee Guan. 20. Nadege Lubrano and Fabrice Schweger. 21. Jaeger-LeCoultre's Reverso Cordonnet Duetto which won the Starhill Gallery Favourite Ladies Watch Award. 22. Rainer Sigel presenting the Starhill Gallery Timeless Jewellery Award to Shermaine Ng of Damiani.

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The recent launch of the Midday group exhibition at The Gallery @ Starhill Kuala Lumpur, which featured the works of seven talented artists, proved to be a most enlightening experience.Photography Yong Keen Keong

Under The Midday Sun

1. Eston Tan and ‘Facets of Life’. 2. Haffendi Anuar and Liew Chin Chin. 3. Miriam Van Staveren and her work ‘Trust Me, I’m ORGANIC II.’

4. Soon Lai Wai and his work ‘Song of Earth 12’. 5. Gita Mahardhika and Sandra Widjaja. 6. ‘Pleasure 2’ and ‘Street Scene’ by Lim Ah Cheng.

Seven talented artists from around the region had their time in sun recently when The Gallery @ Starhill Kuala Lumpur chose to fete their works collective in a group exhibition entitled Midday. A diverse range of works were shown, ranging from figurative to abstract, and the line-up of talented young local artists

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included the likes of up-and-coming Pahang-born Raduan Man, well-known for his work as a printmaker, and Penangite Eston Tan’s Pollock-esque technique, to Australian painter Miriam Van Staveren, whose pieces currently attempt to portray the controversy surrounding the Australian cattle industry.

The theme of the exhibition centred around the mapping of an artist’s professional life in relation to a day’s setting, which, for example,

reportreport

may depict the struggles a young emerging painter might have to endure before gaining recognition but captured in a piece portraying the darkness of early morning, as well as various visual, thematic and material transitions which have occurred in the course of the artist’s practice. Some of the more appealing pieces displayed included Soon Lai Wai’s delightful Song of earth 13 artwork depicting butterflies and flowers, Hamdan Shaarani’s imagery of water bodies, as seen in Refleksi Jernih 9, Fauzul Yusri’s Helaian 3 and Lim Ah Cheng’s colourful macaws in Pleasure 2.

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Louis Vuitton kicks off 2014 in style with the reopening of its recently renovated global flagship store in Starhill Gallery as well

as the unveiling of its Icônes Spring Summer 2014 Collection.Text Thong Weng Sheng

THE HISTORYFrom the get-go, it was evident that Louis Vuitton was destined for greatness. Even as a humble trunk maker in 1854, he was the one who pioneered the lightweight and airtight flat-bottom trunk (as compared to the then common round-topped trunks), which allowed luggage to be conveniently stacked and stored during one’s travels. Now, 160 years later, Louis Vuitton, the company, is universally regarded as one of the world’s leading international fashion houses, having being named the world’s most valuable luxury brand consecutively from 2006 to 2012. Fittingly, to kick off 2014, Louis Vuitton is reopening its newly renovated global flagship store here in Kuala Lumpur’s Starhill Gallery.

THE FACADEApproaching the global store from street level, visitors will be greeted

Starting With A Bang

with gold leaf surface treatment, stone flooring, hand knotted carpets and fabrics, to create unique moods throughout. The furniture adorning the store also encompasses a variety of materials, from airy shagreen and straw marquetry to heavier precious woods. The tables have also been covered with Tannerie la Cométe leather, which is used only in the brand’s most precious bags and luggage. A generous stairwell leads up to the private section of the store, which accommodates women’s ready-to-wear, a salon presenting made-to-order products and a VIP room.

THE ICÔNES SPRING SUMMER 2014 COLLECTION

Of course, Louis Vuitton’s finest leather goods, shoes, watches and jewellery, and ready-to-wear products will take pride of place at the store. Amongst these, most notable would undoubtedly be pieces from the Icônes Spring/Summer 2014 Collection. Inspired

with two entrances: one to the Women’s Universe and a second to the Travel Room/Men’s Universe. This exterior façade presents a smooth fading from light to dark, with the flowery atmosphere given off by the ceruse oak at the Women’s entrance contrasting pleasantly with the darker, more masculine tones of the Men’s entrance. A third entrance, which links the store to adjacent Adorn floor of Starhill Gallery, seamlessly engages in a dialogue with the architecture of the luxury shopping hub.

THE INTERIORVenturing inside, the interior of the store offers an atmosphere akin to that of a luxurious apartment, with a sequence of portals separating the distinctive and intimate character of each room. Over 50 different materials were used in the store’s make up, which include ceruse oak

by the modernist furniture designer, a rc h i te c t a n d p h o to g ra p h e r , Charlotte Perriand, the collection consists of 16 colourful looks made up of pieces that seamlessly blend modernity with classic chic. This collection has also been designed to allow one to mix and match various pieces together to suit every individual and setting.

THE ARTThe store will also feature a series of art pieces, including paintings by Malaysian artist Ivan Lam, who was specif ically commissioned to create works for the Women’s Universe section. Various historical visuals depicting the story of Louis Vuitton also line the store, alongside an antique Louis Vuitton trunk from 1924. Venturing upstairs to the VIP room, one wi l l f ind a paravent covered in hand-painted wallpaper by renowned New York artist Yolande Batteau.

The newly renovated Louis Vuitton global flagship store in Starhill Gallery reopens in January 2014.

Louis Vuitton’s Icônes Spring/Summer 2014 Collection, inspired by the modernist furniture designer, architect and photographer Charlotte Perriand, will take pride of place at the luxury brand’s newly renovated global flagship store in Starhill Gallery.

Top 10

Heart & SoulStatuesque beauty and tireless philanthropist Deborah Priya Henry shares her favourite things about Starhill Gallery.

It’s hard to begin describing Deborah Priya Henry. A former Miss Malaysia and all-round talent, the leggy beauty works as a model, television host and

actress, but it is her philanthropic good deeds that makes her stand head and shoulders above her peers. One of the co-founders of the Fugee School, a non-profit charity organisation that provides basic education to refugee children in Kuala Lumpur, and an advocate for World Vision, Deborah’s good work has seen her listed in Forbes’ list of

top Asian philanthropists, primarily for her role in helping young Somali refugees in Malaysia.

I’m a big fan of Luk Yu Tea House. Aside from its delicious dim sum, I love the ambience and vibe, which reminds me of an authentic Hong Kong-style tea house.

Shiatzy Chen is such a cool brand. When you look at its designs, you might not initially be drawn to them but, once you actually put one on, you feel transformed. I’ve been told a lot of confident, stylish women love the brand and it’s easy to see why. I also love its balance of Taiwanese and French elements, and how there’s a timelessness to its designs. I could easily wear one of its designs now or in the next five years.

Khoon Hooi is another designer who is instantly recognisable. His distinctive style is something women all over the world can appreciate. I’ve also seen his collections in Paris’ Tranoï shows and his clothes are something I always look forward to.

For a varied menu with great ambience, I like dining at Shook! as well.

I’ve worked with Jaeger-LeCoultre for many years now and I’ve really gotten to learn and appreciate so

much of the brand’s values, history and heritage. I have my very own Jaeger-LeCoultre timepiece now and I like how it kind of represents me – simple, subtle yet complicated!

Sergio Rossi for shoes is definitely on my list. Cute and cool, I look forward to new designs every season.

I love sunglasses and the Optical Gallery at Starhill has a great selection matched with great customer service.

I don’t qualify to be a customer of Truefitt & Hill but I love the brand and the idea behind it as my friend takes his son there for ‘father and son’ haircuts. I think it’s such a lovely way to bond and spend some family time together.

For classic dresses or simply to appreciate the femininity and softness of the brand, it’s always nice to spend time looking through the things at Valentino.

I must, of course, mention Livingwell. Livingwell offers world-class service and I’ve been going there for ages. Datuk Dr Sean Paul, one of the best in town, is the dentist who’s given me my perfect smile!

To find out more on the Fugee School and how to help, visit www.fugeeschool.com.

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Manuel Emch, CEO of RJ-Romain Jerome, shares how unconventional thinking has propelled the Swiss watch brand to success.

Text Ong Chin Huat Photography Law Soo Phye

A Beautiful Mind and rushed back to his office where, within three hours, he completed a 3-D rendering of a watch. He prepared the press kits and launched the watch on Monday. What happened next was something Emch himself never anticipated – the watch made the front pages of newspapers around the world as well as on television. By the end of the day, there were 30 orders for a watch that only existed on paper.

Emch, who was in town recently for the seventh edition of the A Journey Through Time annual exhibition of luxury watches and jewellery held at Starhill Gallery, admitted that he was stumped. With no materials from the volcano eruption, he consoled himself

An example of the bravado and calculated risk-taking Manuel Emch, CEO of Swiss watch brand RJ-Romain Jerome,

engages in happened during the Icelandic volcano eruption in April 2010 that brought air travel in Europe to a

halt. “I was supposed to travel to Paris from Geneva for a business meeting but, that Friday, I was stuck in the airport and all flights were grounded,” says Emch, who is also the designer of the watch brand and whose youthful energy and enthusiasm is evident in the timepieces he creates.

Manuel Emch has forged a culture

of innovation and risk-taking since

taking over RJ-Romain Jerome in

2010. Right: The Space Invaders

watch has helped the company gain

access to a younger and more hedonistic

demographic.

and his team that, if anything, at least the brand received a lot of publicity. “We had orders for a watch that didn’t exist. There were only drawings but we had no materials, no access and no connections – nothing. It was just an idea.”

Two days later, however, just when Emch and his team were about to give up, he received an e-mail from someone in Iceland who had read about the watch and thought that it was a great idea. Her husband was in charge of the Nordic Volcanological Institute in Iceland and could help by providing lava, ashes and stones from the recently erupted (and almost unpronounceable) Eyjafjallajökull. After ensuring that they were able to obtain certificates of authenticity from the institute, the RJ-Romain Jerome Eyjafjallajokull-DNA watch was born and, with two limited editions completely sold out, testified to the success of Emch’s out-of-the- box thinking.

Looking back at that nerve-wrecking but adrenalin-charged time, Emch believes that, “if you strongly believe in something and you dare and are willing to take risks, you will succeed.” But Emch’s definition of success isn’t merely about making huge profits. He explains: “Success to me is a mind game. It all starts with whether you believe you will succeed or not. Even if we couldn’t get the volcanic materials to make the watch, I feel we succeeded already as we put the brand on the map.” But what he feels proudest about was the fact that he and his team did something

This lockdown and delay in Emch’s travel plans, however, turned out to be a blessing in disguise. “I was stuck in the airport but, instead of fretting, I told myself, ‘I have an idea for a new watch!’ This was the most topical incident to hit Europe and it was on-going.” Emch left the airport

PROFILE

[[ If you strongly believe in

something and you dare and are willing

to take risks, you will succeed.

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innovative, daring, bold, provocative and iconoclastic. “We did something no one else dared to do and that, for me, is what I’m proudest of.”

Since becoming CEO of RJ-Romain Jerome in 2010, Emch has forged a culture of innovation and risk-taking within the company, which has paid off handsomely. With the Space Invaders watch, again, he went against the grain. “Video games are a cultural heritage and brought back emotional memories for me so, I thought, why not create a watch based on this,” says Emch, who designed a watch based on the

[[most iconic video game of that era. “As it was an unusual concept and considered surprising, I made sure it had to be of the highest quality possible.”

Putting extra attention into its craftsmanship, the Space Invaders watch was launched at the 2011 Basel Watch Fair but only got two orders. Undeterred, Emch persisted and held on to his vision even though his team and investors were ready to throw in the towel. “I was told, ‘Nice try’, but just move on to something

else. However I still believed in the product. I didn’t want to give up. I knew it would create brand equity,” says Emch.

Instead, he launched the watch through the means of social networks. It ultimately paid off and, not only did Space Invaders sell out, Emch gained a new subset of customers, one he wouldn’t have had access to through normal channels as well as gaining something considered the holy grail of 20th-century marketing – the hip and cool factor. Among those who lined up to buy the watch were the chief programmer of Android as well as the

members of the British electronica band, The Prodigy, because their fifth studio album was titled Invaders Must Die. “I was exposed to a younger and more hedonistic clientele, and this helped me penetrate the London and Paris markets and gave a positive connotation to RJ-Romain Jerome,” says Emch. “These are just some examples that highlight the fact that, if you are daring, willing to take risks, think out-of-the-box and believe you can succeed, you can.” It’s all, in Manuel Emch’s case, really in the mind.

The dial on RJ-Romain Jerome’s

Eyjafjallajökull-DNA is crafted from ash ejected by the erupting volcano,

with the red fissures representing lava, while

the hour and minute hands are inspired

by the grounded airplanes grounded in

the aftermath of the eruption back in 2010.

These are just some examples that highlight the fact that, if you are daring, willing to take risks, think out-of-the-box and believe

you can succeed, you can.

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Fired with a desire to write his own chapter in horology, Hautlence co-founder and CEO, Guillaume Tetu, shares how the young watch brand

has survived and thrived.Text Ong Chin Huat Photography Law Soo Phye

My goal was to reinvent the watch in the way it told the time and to reinterpret the mechanical part

referencing architecture and design. [[

Creatively DifferentPROFILE

I learnt about creativity, as it’s a very creative company – it was good training for my brain.”

After leaving TAG Heuer in 2004, Tetu says he wanted to build “his own story,” which was how Hautlence was born. “My goal was to reinvent the watch in the way it told the time and to reinterpret the mechanical part referencing architecture and design,” says Tetu. “I wanted to link the manual part of watchmaking with the visible mechanism that was used in other industries.”

Starting the company with some friends, Hautlence began life with just some drawings and sketches. However, the timing was right as the watch industry was experiencing a boom. “From 2000 to 2008, it was crazy in the watch industry,” Tetu says. “Before 2009, everything was possible and there were a lot of newcomers in

Architecture and watch-mak ing may be as different as chalk and cheese for some but, according to Guillaume

Tetu, CEO and co-founder of watch brand Hautlence, the balance between aesthetic desires and technical constraints render these two disciplines similar. “As with architecture, where shape and function are closely linked, so it

is with a watch,” Tetu says. With a background in industrial design, it seems natural for Tetu to place such a big emphasis on the visual aspect of Hautlence. “Just like with a beautiful building, where you can see the internal structure and frame, and we play with the transparency and layers, this is also what I wanted to create with my watches – to have a link between the technical and aesthetic parts.”

According to Gaillaume Tetu, Hautlence's watches are made for collectors or enthusiasts looking for something different.

we changed our strategy and decided to create a new market and change distributors and rebuilt the brand. We continued to develop the product but focused on distribution as that was key for us.” This strategy paid off and, today, Hautlence is considered one of the most desirable watches on a collector’s wish list.

“Our customers are definitely people who want to be different,” Tetu says. “They are already knowledgeable about watchmaking and almost all are collectors or watch enthusiasts who are looking for something special.” Having already acquired the big brands, connoisseurs are looking for something different and unique, which is what Hautlence offers.

And unique it certainly is. Tetu picks up a watch from Hautlence’s Avant-Garde Collection and shows how this “piece of art” tells the time – the hour

Having spent seven years working in a company that produced casings for Rolex and another seven at TAG Heuer, Tetu admits to learning a lot from those blue-chip watch companies. “The experience I gained was invaluable,” says Tetu, who was in Kuala Lumpur recently for Starhill Gallery’s A Journey Through Time showcase. “I learnt the industrial process, quality control, finishing and polishing in Rolex. From TAG Heuer,

the market proposing new concepts and ideas.” Today, though, while most of them have vanished, Hautlence has thrived, which Tetu attributes to time and patience. “You need to be very creative to start a new brand from scratch today,” he says. “You need to bring something new to the market. Secondly, you need to be strong in your vision. You need to let your partners know what the future is where you are concerned.”

Tetu admits to making mistakes back in 2009, when he concentrated solely on the products and neglected the marketing and distribution sides. “So,

hand jumps to the next digit when the minute hand has spun a full 60 minutes. This jumping hour retrograde minutes technique is linked by an internal patented mechanism that is unique and cannot be seen in any other watch. “Most watches have the same look – two hands and a face. I find that a little boring. But, in the last decade, more people want to express their own personality through their watches and, as a result, we can see more unique and interesting designs in watches. That’s really exciting for me.”

Hautlence is available exclusively at Khronos Unique Horlogerie in Starhill Gallery.

Channel your inner oriental temptress with these head-turning looks that’ll take you from a

traditional reunion dinner to a romantic night out á deux in style.

Photography Yong Keen Keong Stylist Allien Gan Makeup Anni Goh Hair Bibien Leong Model Shir Chong Location Lot 10 Hutong & Starhill Gallery

Multicolour interlock kaleidoscope print dress, McQ Alexander McQueen.

This page: Gold tube ribbon dress, Paciotti @ Antoinette, floral jacket, RedValentino.Facing page: Butterflies dress, M Missoni.

This page: Printed dress, Kenzo, jacket and beaded clutch bag, Shiatzy Chen. Facing page: Chinese collar dress and bag, Shiatzy Chen, Trench coat, Khoon Hooi.

This page: Floral Rosard dress, P.A.R.O.S.H @ Antoinette. Facing page: Crewneck collar red wool coat, Kenzo.

This page: Royal blue with jewels top and matching skirt, Khoon Hooi.Facing page: Knitted cardigan, M Missoni.

Top 10

Objects of

Inject a splash of riotous red or passionate pink in all your accoutrements to ensure this

Valentine's Day spells romance.

Y-3 day messenger bag in red @ Leo.

Tiger motif iPhone case, Kenzo.

Heart-shaped key-ring, Amouage.

Scarf, DSquared2 @ Leo.

Pocket square pochette, DSquared2 @ Leo.

Alice leather notebook with hawk eye stone button, Armani/Casa.

Sweetheart Pink

Coral-hued shopper, M Missoni

Red leather loafers, DSquared2 @ Leo.

DESIRE

DESIREArt Direction Sheila Cheah Styling Yvonne Low Photographer Law Soo Phye

Top 10

Love BirdsBird ornaments,

Debenhams.

Baby pink suede clutch with lattice pattern and wood clasp detail, Studio Pollini @ Antoinette.

Suede flats with tiger motif, Kenzo.

Knitted cardigan, Kenzo.

Ribbon and zip necklace with feather, Khoon Hooi.

Silk scarf, Kenzo.

Amuleto precious box cover with tiger hawk eye stone, Armani/Casa.

Red suede handbag, Casadei @ Antoinette.Rivitral necklace,

P.A.R.O.S.H. @ Antoinette.

Love Is All You Need sign, Debenhams.

38 39STARHILL STARHILL

Top 10

I Only Have Eyes

For YouMini 'eye' short-sleeved

top, Kenzo.

Beloved fragrances for him and her, Amouage.

Metallic Cyber shoulder bag, M Missoni.

Red candle holders by Ben De Lisi for Debenhams.

Alice leather photo albums with hawk eye stone button, Armani/Casa.

Happy, Hope and Love scented votive candles, Amouage.

Nude clutch with velvet bow detail, Red Valentino.

Embroidered Love cushion with embellishments, Debenhams.

Hands-shaped collier, Paule Ka @ Antoinette.

40 STARHILL 41STARHILL

42 43STARHILL STARHILL

Treasure Chest

Feel like a princess whenever you put one of these bejewelled babies on.

Styling Jennifer Choo Photographer Choen Lee

Beyond your Wildest

DreamsL’Incomparable necklace in rose gold, 637 carats of

yellow and white diamonds, Mouawad.

DESIRE

44 45STARHILL STARHILL

Those Pearly Whites

Pearl necklace with detachable brooch in yellow gold, rubies and

diamonds, Garrard.

That Sparkle in her Eyes

Belize necklace and ring with white gold with diamond and

sapphires, Gubelin.

46 47STARHILL STARHILL

Talented young Australian Mark Vincent wowed the crowd at Starhill Gallery recently when he performed at the finale of the luxury watch and jewellery showcase, A Journey Through Time VII.

Mark Vincent performing at the recent A Journey

Through Time VII in Starhill Gallery.

The biggest lesson I learnt from the experience was to seize the moment as I knew that was my shot at having a

successful singing career. [[He’s Got The Voice!

hard work, especially behind the scenes. But it was all so rewarding and I just wanted to win it. I knew I had to give 110 per cent to achieve that, which is what I did. The biggest lesson I learnt from the experience was to seize the moment, as I knew that was my shot at having a successful singing career. I had to reach out and grab it!

You’re just 20 and yet so successful. What do you envision for yourself over the next decade?To be an international star! As I said, I want to show the world what I can do and how much I love my job as a performer. This will take time but I’m ready to work hard and I'll never stop performing or improving as an artist.

What’s your definition of success?To be respected by people who

Just 20 years of age but blessed with a sweet, powerful voice and magnetic stage persona, Mark Vincent shot to fame after winning the third season of Australia’s Got Talent in 2009 while still a teenager. Today, with five successful albums under his belt, Starhill magazine catches up with the young man with the dulcet voice.

When did you realise you had a gift?When I was about 10 years old. It all started when I was working in my grandfather’s Italian restaurant. He knew I had the ability to sing and always encouraged me by getting me to sing in front of customers during their meals.

PROFILE

What was your favourite song as a child?I loved Funiculi, Funicula. Every time family or friends come over, I’d start to sing that song and it always got the party started. I have such fond memories of singing it while growing up.

Did you ever imagine singing as a career?My ambition as a child was always to sing and travel the world. But I never thought I’d win a national talent competition and start my career at 15. However, I’d always wanted to show Australia and the world my talent and I still can’t believe it

appreciate what you do as an artist as well as gain the respect of other artists.

Are there any singers you particularly look up to?Andrea Bocelli and Luciano Pavarotti. To me, they are the best voices the world has ever heard. I love the way they convey emotion through the songs they sing and, for me, that’s very important. It’s okay to have a great voice but you must also have heart! And, in my opinion, they have heart.

What does your family think of all that you’ve achieved?They are very proud but I wouldn’t have gotten so far without their support. They constantly push me to be better. They are my rock and I love them.

a lot of travelling this year and hope to be returning to Malaysia again very soon.

If you could name one song that best describes your journey so far, what would it be and why?Well, I’m only 20, so I have a long life left to live and experience still. But I’d have to say This Is the Moment for now. It describes my dream coming true, with five albums to my name at this point in life. I think it fits perfectly with what I’ve achieved so far.

What was your experience like singing at A Journey Through Time VII?It was amazing. I found Malaysians to be so welcoming, kind and a pleasure to work with. It was actually one of the best experiences of my life, so far. The audience was incredible and

sometimes. It truly is a dream come true for me.

What made you decide to try out for Australia’s Got Talent?After my grandfather passed away, I had a great sense of emptiness and felt I really needed to do something positive to regain focus. I knew Australia’s Got Talent would be the perfect opportunity to start my career and kick-start my life. I also knew how proud my grandfather would be of me for being pro-active and chasing my dream.

What was the experience like?Amazing! It was full on and lots of

With five successful albums to your name already, what are you working on right now?Well, I’ve just released the fifth, which is called The Quartet Sessions, so there’s still a lot of work to be done, particularly with regards to promoting the album and getting it out to the world. I hope to be doing

it was wonderful to see their love for classical music.

What are your thoughts on your first visit to Malaysia?Malaysia is a wonderful place with so much history and culture. Yes, it’s my first visit but, I must say, I’ll definitely be back!

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adorn

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PamPer

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exPlore

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relIsh

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muse

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terrace

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Starhill Gallery 181, Jalan Bukit Bintang55100 Kuala LumpurMalaysia

www.starhillgallery.comStarhill Concierge: +603 - 2782 3800

48 STARHILL

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