Luxurious Magazine - Luxury Defined - 10/11/12

luxurious magazineOctober/November 2012

Following in the footsteps of PavarottiWe talk to Jack Row, Adrien Choux, Steven Grotell, Mate Rimac, Marijan Zajecand Heirlooms Linensand Heirlooms Linens

Karkloof Spa, South Africa

Southampton Boat ShowPankor Laut - Malaysia

Rolls-Royce Art Decoand Aviator Collection

www.luxuriousmagazine.com

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Luxurious Magazine I luxuriousmagazine.com

The Great Luciano Pavarotti described Pangkor Laut asParadise and we concur.

Paul Godbold and the YTL Lady Yacht

Luciano Pavarotti and Dato Francis Yeoh at Pangkor Laut

Paul Godbold - Founder

The opportunity for us to present the finest luxurious products, places, and services around the world is upon us once again. For this edition, we have changed the layout a little, hopefully regular readers among you will notice this. In this publication, we really do travel the globe. Croatia is well represented with Mate Rimac, a former motor racing driver and owner of his own super-carcar brand, and an exciting new addition to the Art world in the form of dynamic Sculptor Marijan Zajec Ko-ze.

We also talk to UK-based Jack Row, Hong Kong-based Adrien Choux, Steven Grotell in New York and more. Simon Wittenberg has been immersing himself in the motoring world with visits to the Windsor Castle Concours of Elegance, Salon Privé and a special trip to the Paris Motor Show. The Asian-based team (including yours truly) followed in the footsteps of Luciano Pavarotti when we stayed in his fafavourite tropical villa. Reena Patel samples the finest cuisine on top of the Royal Festival Hall in London, Thorsten Beurhmann and the Seven Stars and Stripes team headed off to luxurious South Africa for a mind-blowing luxury experience. Then there are a few more of our usual special surprises that I’ll let you discover as you browse through this edition.

II would also like to mention our new and astounding members who have joined the Luxurious Magazine editorial contribution team; New York-based Diane Roncone, the former Executive Editor of Hamptons Magazine, Ian Stevens, who is highly experienced in the fields of luxury product design, show jumping, and aviation, the Australian music producer, international DJ, and presenter, Steven North, Ksenia Antsiferova, a former Model and Singer who is the Luxurious Magazine Moscow correspondent, and finally, we now have Jonathan Hasson and Spencer Dodington, who are both based in Shanghai with their luxury concierge company. Look out for their in-depth article on luxuon luxury lifestyle trends in Shanghai.

Welcome

Contents

Aston Martin DB9 MY13 Aston Martin reveals full details of the latest major enhancements to its iconic Sports GT car, the potent DB9.

The Cube by Electrolux Reena Patel samples the culinary delights on offer from double Michelin starred chef, Sat Bains.

Jack RowFrom Nottinghamshire to Harrods of London. We talk to Jack Row, one of the rising stars of British high-end jewellery.

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The Pavarotti SuiteWe follow in the footsteps of the great tenor, Luciano Pavarotti, by staying in the luxurious property named in his honour.

Steven GrotellThis renowned New York-based jeweller and watchmaker answers Paul Godbold’s questions.

Nordic Seasons - Spring, WristwatchBladesmith Johan Gustafsson and watchmaker Patrik Sjögren created an inspiration from the cold north of Scandinavia.

Karkloof Spa - South AfricaThorsten Buehrmann and his colleagues at Seven Stars and Stripes visit this renowned luxury vacation destination.

Adrien ChouxAdrien, Owner of the Hong Kong-based luxury watch brand, the Chinese Time Keeper, takes a little time out to talk to us about the brand’s progression.

The All-New Range Rover. The world’s first SUV with a lightweight all-aluminium body, the new Range Rover takes the capabilities of the marque’s flagship to a new level, with even greater luxury and refinement.

ContentsOctober / November 2012

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HeirloomsWe talk to Ruth Douglas of Heirlooms, fine linen manufacturers to His Royal Highness the Prince of Wales.

83 The Backes & Strauss Beau BrummellThis fine and dandy timepiece pays homage to the man that invented style, fashion and sharp tailoring in London.

85 The Ultimate Toy CarIan Stevens takes a look at the British company behind the world’s most luxuri-ous toy car.

87 Salon Prive London 2012 Simon Wittenberg indulges his passion for the globe’s greatest supercars at this annual luxury motoring showcase.

99 Southampton Boat ShowLuxurious Magazine spends some time looking at the very best yachts and boats at the annual sailing show in Southampton, Hampshire.

107 ShanghaiSpencer Doddington provides a detailed insight, past and present of the history, trends and passion for luxury in this great metropolis.

117 Karkloof Spa RestaurantDuring their stay at the Karkloof Spa, the team at Seven Stars and Stripes sample the fine cuisine on offer.

121 Art Focus - Ko-ZePaul Godbold talks to Croatian Artist Marijan Zajec.

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MAWI 10th Anniversay Jewellery brand MAWI Is 10 years old. We take a look back at the past decade.

The Isle of Eriska We started this edition with a feature on a 300 acre private island, and end with one, just as luxurious, 6000 miles away.

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luxurious magazine contributors


Simon Wittenberg - Great BritainBoBorn in the Grand Duchy of Luxembourg, and now based in London, Simon Wittenberg is a regu-lar contributor to Luxurious Magazine. A specialist in the automotive sector, Simon has worked with some of the world's most iconic marques such as Lotus Lotus Cars, Ferrari, and Tesla Motors. His passions include luxury goods, motor sport, and travel.

Diane Roncone - United StatesBased in NBased in New York, Diane served as an editor for Niche Media, the parent com-pany of luxury niche magazines across the United States. In this role, she was executive editor of Hamptons, as well as an editor for Bridgehampton Polo Niche’s Gotham, and Los Angeles CConfidential magazines. She’s traveled across the globe and interviewed royalty, rock stars, and movers and shakers. She has an unquenchable thirst for adventure and a never-ending curiosity about the world and its many peoples…and, of course, an apprecia-tion for luxury!

Spencer Doddington - ChinaSpencer Spencer was born in the US and graduated from the University of Texas with a Finance MBA. His appe-tite for adventure brought him to China in the 90s, where he studied Architecture at Shanghai's Tongji University. He has resided in Shanghai since Shanghai since 1995, and his love of the city's Concession-era architec-tural design inspired his highly suc-cessful renovations practice. Spencer is fluent in Mandarin, Shanghainese and Japanese. When taking time off work he enjoys painting, photography and travel.

Thorsten Buehrmann - GermanyThoThorsten, is a world traveler, expert in multi-cultural marketing, and now working within the field of luxury hospitality after his honorable discharge as a naval officer. Thorsten is considered to be a true gentleman and gourmet. Luxury establishments araround the world trust and respect his expertise. He is fluent in English and German. And with 20 years of con-tinuous education and studies, this distinctive gentleman still finds the time to enjoy his favorite hobbies, scuba diving and photography

Simone Zeffiro - ItalyAn An award-winning Italian photogra-pher from a small city close to Milan. Eight years ago, he officially started his artistic journey combining his own feelings, sensations and personal visions of what an image should be.

Reena Patel - Great BritainReena is a health, beauty, fine dining and luxury travel contributor to Luxurious Magazine. In 2010, she was awarded the PRCA-PCG Freelancer of the Year Award.

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luxurious magazine ContributorsI

John Shum - MalaysiaJJohn Shum can at the very least be described as an expert when it comes to photography and the latest technologies used in making pictural art both static and movement based. Sought after by both professional and amateur photographers, John travels ththroughout the Asia-Pacific region sharing his years of photographic experience via talks, master-classes, roadshows and presentations.

Siobhan O’Dea - MalaysiaBoBorn in Waterford, Ireland and now based in the bustling City of Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. Siobhan’s exten-sive knowledge of luxury travel and fine dining puts her in the ideal posi-tion to judge what qualifies as Luxurious and what does not. Siobhan’s and Tracy’s expert advice have helped us put together some of Luxurious Magazine’s finest and most interesting luxury travel features over the past year.

Jonathan L. Hasson - ChinaShanghai based Shanghai based Jonathan, (originally from Italy), was born in Belgium and grew up in Africa. He has a Bachelor of Arts (International Affairs & Economics) from an American University in Brussels and is co- Director of Luxury Concierge China. Jonathan speaks Jonathan speaks fluent English, French, Italian, and conversational Mandarin.

Steven North - AustraliaSSteven - based in Perth, Australia, is the producer of our music backing tracks. However his Musical, Deejaying and Production talents extend to a wide much wider audi-ence. The owner of Forgone Productions, an Australian based compacompany which is involved with artist management, event management and in the future, production manage-ment, he somehow manages to juggle the demands on his time between his multiple music, produc-tion and marketing roles.

Ian Stevens- Great BritainIan is a Ian is a keen traveller, style and design enthusiast, global socialiser, semi-pro photographer, antiquity hunter, line judge at the World Aerobatics Championships, cook, environmentalist, wildlife watcher, stargazer, aviation buff, history explorer, fossil hunter and authoauthority on surprising places. His greatest claims to fame include design-ing possibly the world’s first bio confer-ence bag for a G8 Summit, mending a chocolate sculpture in the Café Royal and introducing a bat to renowned naturalist David Attenborough

Ksenia Antsiferova - RussiaRRussian born Ksenia is our resident Moscow based lifestyle correspon-dant. A former model and member of an all-girl pop band, she divides her time between her passion for fine dining, travel, beauty and fashion.

AboutThe magazine was created by Paul Godbold, an entrepreneurial Englishman with a Malaysian heritage. Originally, Luxurious Magazine was produced 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 sphere of electronic digi-tal publishing which has proved incredibly successful according to feedback from our partners and global readership.

A note from the PublisherAs Luxurious Magazine continues its expansion into more coun-tries around the world, my own spare time is rapidly vanishing. Wonderful offers for me to sample cuisine, visit luxurious destina-tions, and meet people are frequently having to be politely refused. However, with 35+ highly experienced global editorial contributors working with us, may I suggest that you contact one of the team via the website, look through the biographies of writ-ers whose geographical location and area of expertise match your product or service, and get in touch using the online contact forms.

Social MediaYou can access our social media channels via the main web site.

General InformationNo 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 con-tributors, and are not necessarily those of the publisher. Every effort has been taken to ensure the correctness and accuracy in the material pub-lished 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 maga-zine, this has been impossible 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.

SONY make.believe is an official partner of

Luxurious Magazine

InformationOur primary goal is to offer our reader-ship the complete luxury experience in a simple easy-to-read format.

AdvertisingOver the past 12 months the international audience of Luxurious Magazine has more than tripled. If you are interested in advertising in Luxurious Magazine to promote your product or services to our readership, email the advertising department ([email protected]) for further information or view the advertising / media pack on the main website.

Getting in contact(Head Office)Luxurious Magazine5 St Johns LaneLondonEC1M 4BHTel: +44 (0)207 193 8380Tel: +44 (0)20 7549 [email protected]

Front CoverThe image used for the front cover is the Rimac Concept_One Electric Supercar. Only 88 cars will be built at a price of $1 million each.

Jack Rowinterview

luxurious magazine jack row interview


Paul Godbold Talks to Jack Row, a Shining Light of the UK Jewellery Industry

Inspiration for Jaali is drawn from the geometric patterns of Islamic art, which is translated into the Jaali latticed screens characteristic of Moghul Indian architecture

"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 much as functional items, to be passed down from generation to generation."passed down from generation to generation."

PG: Jack, as you know, I’ve lived in the same part of the world as you grew up in, and it is not normally an area that you would automatically link to high-value prod-ucts that subsequently lead to one of the globe’s most famous department stores. Before becoming one of the bright young stars from the jewellery world, what was life like growing up for 'Young Jack' in NoNottinghamshire and where did the fascination for jew-ellery come from?

JR: When most people think of Nottingham, they inevitably conjure up images of Robin Hood, Sherwood Forest and Kevin Costner. However, there is more to the Midlands town than the Hollywood perception would have you believe. Art, design, and craftsmanship are significant parts of its heri-tage, the most famous contemporary export being the world-renowned fashion designer, Paul Smith.

Growing up in Nottingham, I think that the history and culture of the city had a profound effect on my interest in art, design, and in some way sowed the seeds of my creativity. From an early age, my father (who is a carpenter) would take me to art

>> galleries at Nottingham Castle to see the latest exhi-bitions and installations. Andy Warhol one month, Wedgwood the next and works by Pre-Raphaelite masters the following. It was perhaps inevitable that my eventual career would lie in the creative arts. My introduction into the world of jewellery and more impor-tantly, goldsmithing, came by a rather unexpected route; via the Japanese sport of Judo. I had no idea that one of my training partners was an award-winning master goldsmith who had made pieces of jewellery for the Royal Family. Harry Forster-Stringer, the man in question, knew that I had an interest in art and design and suggested that I could appapply for a part-time job at his gallery and studio. I never really looked back from the first moment that I saw the intri-cate, hand-made works of art that Harry and his team were creating from silver, gold, diamonds and an array of pre-cious stones. The skill and creativity that goldsmithing offered, captured my imagination at the age of 16, and I knew that this was the path I must take and began a parttime apprenticeship alongside my academic studies.

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jack row interview luxurious magazine


PG: Tell us about the move to Birmingham, what skills you 'honed’, and how the introduction to Harrods came about. JR:JR: After completion my A-Levels at 18, I worked full-time as a goldsmith for a year and finished my apprenticeship. The decision then arose whether to either stay and work with Harry’s team, or continue my education at an aca-demic institution. Although my making skillsskills were good, I wanted to improve my ability and wider understanding of design and also master new practices such as computer-aided design and laser technology.

After visiting various institutions around the UK, I settled upon the world-renowned School of Jewellery, part of the Birmingham Institute of Art and Design. The school is the largest of its kind in Europe and has been on its site in Birmingham’s historic Jewellery Quarter since 1889. What drew me to this college was that fact that there was an equal emphasis on craftsmanship as well as design theory, which is sadly lacking in many other universities. Moreover, Birmingham has a strong heritage in art and design, and I thought it it would be a vibrant place to study.

I was accepted on to a Higher National Diploma course in Jewellery and Silversmith and then continued for a top-up year on a new degree level course, Design for Industry. I success-fully graduated with a 1st class honours degree in 2010 and also won a design aaward from the British Jewellers Association for All Years and All Courses for my fountain pen prototype, which was developed as a major part of my degree.

Overall, I think that the most significant skills that I acquired and honed whilst studying at the Birmingham School of Jewellery were approaches to design, being open-minded in regard to the combination of old and new technolo-gies and strong entrepreneurial spirit. TheseThese are very British qualities that make British design and craftsmanship the most sought after in the world.

The introduction to Harrods was as a part of my major project coursework.

I contacted the buyer and asked if it was possible to show him my prototype pen, get his opinion on the design and ask advice about the world of luxury writing instruments, as he is one of the top experts around the world in this field. The results and comments from the meetingmeeting were to form part of the analy-sis of my work, for my dissertation.

The buyer instantly saw potential in the Architect prototype and thought that my story was very ‘Harrods’, with me being a somewhat eccentric British designer, making innovative, luxury products. I was then asked if I would consider developing the prototype into a collec-tiontion that could be debuted exclusively at Harrods. I said yes (of course), and the rest is, as they say, history!

PG: Thinking back - you're going to meet the buyer at Harrods. Can you recall your emotions, before and after the meeting?

JR: Before the meeting, I was certainly nervous, but also excited about meeting one of the top buyers at the world’s most luxurious department store.

After the meeting, I was delighted that Harrods loved my work and also excited about the challenge of developing the concept into a collectable range of writ-ing instruments and accessories and the journey in establishing my luxury brand.

PG: The move to go full-time with the Jack Row brand must have been a daunting one as you were and still are a relatively young man. How has this gone, what's been the most sur-prising aspects of running your own company and is/has it been fun?

JR: After graduation, I began employ-ment with one of Europe’s leading bespoke jewellery companies and worked on the development of the Architect collection in the evenings and at weekends. I was fortunate that my employer encouraged me to develop mmy own creative work and allowed me the time and resources to get my ideas off the ground. My plan was always to be a creative entrepreneur, so I wouldn’t say that going full-time with the Jack Row brand was daunting, so much as more exciting. It was the next logical sstep through the sequence of events and the move as a young person, if any-thing, made the decision easier. I have no real commitments to hold me in place, and so probably the best time in my life to embark on the journey.

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Since launching my brand officially in November 2011, it has certainly been a very busy and hectic time, and I’m learning new things every day, which is great. I’m quite a restless person and find it hard to sit and do nothing when there is so much one could be doing.

ItIt may be an overused cliché, but since becoming self-employed and doing what I love, I’ve not worked a single day. Whilst tiring, and at times stressful, it is definitely fun being creative and exciting having your work appreciated around the world, and in top luxury publications afafter such a short time in business.

PG: The filigree detailing on the Architect collection is incredibly intricate. How do you go about creat-ing the weave pattern, and how much time is involved in producing a single writing implement?

JR: The intricate filigree work present in the Architect and also the new Jaali collections begins life on my laptop as a virtual 3d model. This means that I can inspect it from every angle to ensure it is perfect, and check tolerances and stresses. The software that I use to crcreate the models is also used by archi-tects and industrial designers, so is very suited to the forms I tend to create. From there, I send the digital model to a specialist rapid prototyping company which build the parts in a sophisticated photosensitive resin, with an extremely high resolution UV laser.

The models are grown through a series of layers from the bottom up, with the laser beam curing one layer at a time, to form a laminate. These layers or slices are only 25microns (0.025mm) thick. This technology is usually used by aerospace and Formula One racing teamsteams to prototype accurate parts, so as you can imagine, it is extremely accurate and the technology itself is very expensive.


Once the resin model is cured, it takes a step back in time a few thousand years, as a replacement for the wax models formed for the traditional craft of lost wax casting. This vintage technology can be seen throughout ancient and modern history. Many of the artefacts uneaunearthed in Tutankhamen’s burial chamber were crafted using this tech-nique, as well as sacrificial goblets created in Shang Dynasty China, around 2000BC.

Essentially, how the process works is that a wax (bee's wax was used since ancient times) or in my case the resin model, is encased in a liquid, heat sen-sitive plaster, which is left to set. Once hardened, the plaster, which is con-tained inside round steel cans, is fired in a kiln for several hours, melting the wax/resin inside, which runs out of gates or feeds, emerging from the bottom of the can.

This leaves a perfect cavity inside the plaster, in the form of the model which it once encased. Then, molten precious metals such as gold, silver or platinum are introduced into the plaster cavity and left to set. In ancient times and still today in many cases, it is simply poured ininto the plaster. However, I utilise very complex vacuum casting technology, whereby the molten metal is injected into the can under vacuum conditions. This ensures the molten metal fills the cavity with a greater accuracy.

Once the metal is left to cool, the plaster is washed away by pressurised water leaving the raw metal casting behind. Because the plaster has a grain-like texture and the metal boils inside the can, the finished cast is very rough and needs many hours of refining if it is to spasparkle.

Once I have the raw casting, I begin the laborious job of refining the surface of the gold or silver, using a combination of the same extremely small hand files as used by Swiss horologists (watch-makers). Then I continue in a series of increasingly fine graded carbocarborundum impregnated paper, which is wrapped around hard wood sticks. For difficult geometry, a fine abrasive Water of Ayr stone is used, which comes only from a single mine on the West Coast of Scotland. After this preparation has been completed, the nnext stage is to polish the filigree to a brilliant shine. This is achieved with traditional woven cotton mops or wheels, either on small hand motors, as used in dental and medical practices, or on larger fixed motors, which all spin in an anticlockwise direction. A series of specialisedspecialised polishes is applied to the mops, with the final finishing being achieved with medical grade cotton wool and jeweller’s rouge, which is a combination of ferric (iron) oxide powder and grease. This brings out the beautiful luster of the metal and makes it spait sparkle.

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All these processes, together with the diamond milling of the inner solid ster-ling silver barrel and the individual setting of precious stones by hand, not to mention the hand making of the oak presentation boxes that accompany all writing instruments, result in a six to eight-eight-week production time to create a single writing instrument, from start to finish.

“Each Piece is Individually Made to Order”

PG: Give us an insight into your thought process. How do you get the inspiration for a collection? IsIs it a matter of creating a pattern, and then building the new models around it?

JRJR: It’s never quite the same twice, but I guess that I begin with a theme or con-cept, usually something I’ve seen and been inspired by on my travels. I then create a series of mood boards, which are essentially collages of images and or text, relating to the particular subject.

From these, I identify patterns, motifs and possibly emotions which I feel best represent the subject and moreover, that I personally identify with and find aesthetical satisfying.

I then begin sketching using a pencil and ink (fountain pens are a great design tool) and begin to refine and add my own interpretation of the forms I’ve identified. I may go through 20 or 30 interpretations of a pattern or form before I feel I’ve hit upon something uniquunique. I am a big advocate of not plagiarising existing things and passing it off as individual design. You should be inspired and use your own creativity to evolve what you see before you. I sup-pose in a way, this is a form of impres-sionism.

Finally, once I have a strong collection of unique forms and patterns, I develop these into the intricate filigree work which form a major part of both writing instrument and accessories, as well as the integration of precious stones into the designs, which must be intelligently usedused to enhance the design and not merely be added as vulgar ‘bling’.

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Location:Jewellery Quarter

BirminghamGreat Britain

E-Mail: [email protected]

PG: You’ve been giving seminars to students at Birmingham City University on a range of academic and vocational courses. What are you wanting to impart to the stu-dents, and how rewarding do you find it?

JR: Being a visiting lecturer is a great experience, and very rewarding helping and encouraging students at the same stage as myself, a few years ago. The most important thing that I hope I impart is artistic integrity, quality, attention to detail and innovation. At the end of the daday, we study to improve ourselves and our lives. With course fees recently rising in the UK, it is more imperative than ever that once graduated, students can make a living from their trade or craft.

Teaching also has a great impact on my own work as imparting knowledge as a design concept, technique or skill, is often much harder than simply doing it.

YYou have to analyse how and why you do something in immense detail, and then explain it logically, which leads to a better understanding of what you do, and thus lead to greater efficiency. These analyses enable you to push the boundaries of design and your craft that lilittle bit further, each time.

PG: What are your plans for the next twelve months?

JR: I have a very important show at the end of September, at the prestigious Goldsmiths’ Fair in London, where I will be selling my work direct to the public for the first time. I hope to acquire new clients who will collect my work for years to come and showcase my pieces toto people who may not have seen it before.

After that, I aim to continue to acquire more luxury stockists around the world, who want to offer their clients some-thing truly unique, investable and beau-tiful. I am also working on a new collec-tion, which I won’t say too much about, for which I am very excited, and intend to launch it next year. Watch this space!

PG: Heads must certainly turn when someone pulls a Jack Row pen out of their pocket in a board meeting or to sign an important document. Can you tell our readers why they should have Jack Row exclusive writing instruments and accessories in their collectioncollection and what type of person invests in your work?

JR: Innovative design, British crafts-manship, solid precious metals and exquisite gems make my work the per-fect investment for those who love luxury art and design. Typically, my collectors are individuals who stand out from the crowd and make their own choices, based upon their own opinions and tastes. My work is not for those who want something because someone else has it, but for the person who desires a rare and beautiful work of art because it is luxuriously exclusive. They also make the perfect gift for a loved one or to honour a momenhonour a momentous occasion.

PG: Jack, thank you for your time, is there anything else that you would like to say?

JR: I would just like to say it has been a pleasure getting to know you, Paul, and thank you for championing my work and showcasing it to those who appreciate art, design and the best in luxury design, through Luxurious Magazine.



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luxurious magazine the pavarotti suite


The Pavarotti Suiteby Paul and Natasha Godbold

The ConcertInIn 1994, the great Tenor Luciano Pavarotti, went to Pangkor Laut Resort to celebrate its grand opening. This exclusive and luxurious resort is located on a small private island, situated a few kilometres off the West Coast of Malaysia. His mission was to provide a private concert to a small invited audience consisting of Heads of State, VIPs and the CCrème de la Crème of Malaysian High Society. Extreme humidity, a feeling of unwell, and a smaller audience than the late Maestro was used to, was not the ideal scenario. However, he was ably supported by 64 members of the Manila Symphony Orchestra and his longstanding collabora-tor, flutist Andrea Griminelli with his 14 carat solid gold flute.

Getting the Maestro to the island was no easy task, Pavarotti had a fear of flying and decided to refuse the use a private helicopter. Instead, he was delivered from the mainland by the owner’s 64-foot yacht, the 'YTL Lady'; some of you may recognise this name as it was the same yacht that transported Luxurious Magazine to the Private Estate on Pangkor Laut.

The property provided for Pavarotti was a beautiful detached villa set high up on the hillside with incredible views. Due to the elevated location of the villa Pavarotti was given a special electric golf buggy which he derived great pleasure in driving himself. Other guests of note that came to watch the concert included the Queen of England's cousin Lord Patrick Litchfield and world-renowned travel shshow host, Alan Wicker.

To avoid disturbing the performance, the wildlife was kept at bay. The resident peacocks had to be moved about a half a mile away from the theatre onto the other side of the island. Keeping one of the world's finest voices in check and the great man happy does take some special attention. Pavarotti is a rather demanding eater following a special diet to keep his weight under control. So to ensure all his needsneeds were satisfied, an extra team of famous chefs were summoned from various countries to attend to his requests – a pasta chef from Singapore, a few European masters and of course with Pavarotti’s villa having a fully equipped kitchen, his own team of trained staff was brought in as well.

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the pavarotti suite luxurious magazine


All the special demands were covered in advance, and the support teams were in place to make sure that whenever Pavarotti needed something it was no more than 10 min-utes away.

The security was very tight with a vast network of guards working all over the island. A few guards were sent into the jungle, and a military frigate patrolled the perimeter of the island to keep uninvited guests away. The press were allowed a small conference prior to the concert, and once this was completed were escorted off the island. The main causes for concern were the weather with the theatre being set in the open air and of couset in the open air and of course, the Tenor’s health.

Pavarotti had been experiencing some throat problems and had to cancel a prior concert in Kuala Lumpur and had only just agreed to go ahead with a later concert in Manila. So, without a suitable replacement being arranged, there was a very real threat that the whole venue could have been in jeopardy. Luckily, everything went without a hitch. The weather stayed dry all the way through the event and it only rained at night arained at night after the concert.

Pavarotti and Pangkor Laut are inextricably linked; the Island’s owner, Dato Francis Yeoh, was a huge fan and was the person that convinced Pavarotti to entertain the idea of singing on the island. In September 2002, Pavarotti returned and opened the Spa Village on Pangkor Laut, and in honour of his stay, the largest of the properties at Pangkor Laut Resort and the Villa he stayed in was renamed the Pavarotti Suite.

The Pavarotti SuiteRReaders of Luxurious Magazine will know that we have been to Pangkor Laut previously staying on one of the private estates and also the Suria Suite, a property that hosted the then Prime Minister of Malaysia, Tun Dr. Mahathir bin Mohamad during the Pavarotti Concert. Our affection for the island is no secret; it's not just the beauty, picturesque location and wildlife but the special relation-shipsships we have built under the management and hospitality team.

Before some of you start thinking, 'well, he must be biased', I, like the late Luciano Pavarotti have been all over the world staying at some of the finest places on the planet, you know my feelings, but let me strengthen these by quoting Pavarotti - "I almost cried to see how beautiful God has made this paradise." The Pavarotti Suite is an elegant whitewashed two-bedroom detached villa set high on the hillhill among the rainforest. You enter the property via a private pathway that leads into a grand covered entrance porch with huge dark stained wooden doors. Foliage surrounds you coupled with brightly coloured even rows of dainty flowers. Once through the doors, you are in the main living area. There is also a large airy room with a desk, living area, and dining table for 8 as well as a large wooden bookbook case divider. However the furnishings seem inconse-quential once you step from here onto the first of your two 180-degree balconies.

It’s from here that you can truly appreciate the honesty in the words uttered by Pavarotti; “The views are beautiful”.

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"I almost cried to see how beautiful God had made this paradise" - Luciano Pavarotti

One of the two bedrooms in the Pavarotti Suite, both main bedrooms are similar in size with the only difference being the bathrooms (photo copyright of YTL)

As we continue exploring the ground floor, we find a sepa-rate well equipped kitchen, ample enough in size for the personal chefs to have catered for the Maestro. Opposite the kitchen was a luxuriously equipped cloakroom, and a further door led to the circular staircase leading up to the first floor. Before we talk about the accommodation on the first floor we must make mention of the separate living rroom. This room is equipped with all the requisite AV equip-ment, a selection of DVDs to watch and CDs to listen to. This room has direct access out to the front of the villa via double sliding doors and a huge Day Bed to lounge upon whilst watching TV, listening to music or relaxing with a good book.

Although on a diet, no one can dispute that Pavarotti was an ample framed man, and due to physical ailments stayed within the confines of the ground floor during his stay, with the separate living room being converted into his bedroom. This was something that becomes more obvious when traversing the spiral staircase, simple and fun to go up and down, but you could imagine that a large framed person, paparticularly with hip or knee problems might not find it as enjoyable as we did.

At the bottom and the top of the staircase is what we can best describe as a mini museum to Pavarotti, photographs of him at Pangkor Laut, Artwork, signed photographs all adjourn the wall which can be studied from the luxury of the comfortable chairs and chaise lounges.

On the first floor is the sleeping accommodation. Twin bed-rooms of an equal size with wonderful en-suite bathrooms and spacious dressing areas. The bedrooms lead out to the first floor balcony where the full beauty and majesty of Pangkor Laut can be viewed with incredible views over the sea looking towards the neighbouring island. The bath-rooms are another big plus point, both oversized, but one, in particular housing vastly oversized bath with a large rain shower overhead powerful enough to refresh you before sampling the culinary delights and activities at Pangkor Laut. The other bathroom is no less impressive, instead of the rain shower, you get a separate shower cubicle and of course the benefit of being able to fill your bath 'slightly' faster.

Pangkor Laut Resort provides enough variety of accommo-dation to satisfy all type of holiday-goers. The garden and hill villas, although considered to be 'entry level' at Pangkor Laut are luxurious and ample in size. If you want a little more privacy, then the iconic Sea and Spa Villas standing proudly in the sea can satisfy that need, with the bonus of the soothing sounds of the ocean. The prime properties withinwithin the resort are the Suites, Suria, Purnama and Pavarotti, each being detached and larger than all the other properties at the resort. If all this choice is still not enough, you always have the option of taking one of the magnificent Private Estates on Pangkor Laut!

Unless indicated photographs taken using Sony A77 and NEX VG-20


luxurious magazine the pavarotti suiteI

Steven Grotell Interview

Based on the belief that within every woman, there is a place filled with passion, creativity and self-confidence each one-of-a-kind design rests upon a foundation of extraordinary rarity, high intrinsic value and artisanal craftsmanship.

Frank Lloyd Wright famously quoted that "All artists love and honour William Morris." Morris's work blurred the line between art and craft. To live in a "Morris" house would be to be surrounded by hand-made items of beauty and function-ality. Morris rejected the common, the mass-pmass-produced, the tacky (he would have called it the shoddy). He revived old crafts and traditions, often immersing himself in historical texts or seeking out craftsmen from whom he could learn dying arts, be they weaving, stained glass, dyeing, embroidery, metalwork, or printing.

As the challenges of the industrial age spread to every field of human endeavour, a parade of bold innovators who shaped the world, as they have shaped my own thinking, followed him: Frank Lloyd Wright, the visionary educators of the German Bauhaus, the American industrial design-eers Raymond Loewy and Henry Dreyfuss, the team of Ray and Charles Eames. What they all shared was optimism, an open-ness to experimentation, a love of storytell-ing, a need to collaborate, and an instinct to think with their hands—to build, to proto-type, and to communicate complex ideas with masterful simplicity. They didn’t just do design; they lived design. They were creative innovators that bridged the chasm between thinking and doing.

POETIC TIMEFor more than two decades, Steven Grotell has designed fine jewellery and time-pieces for many of the world’s most renowned luxury brands and global retailers. Long recognized as one of the watch and jewellery industry’s most influential and prolific talents, Grotell also works with a loyal list of international clients on private design commissions.

His evolution as a designer is rooted in the study of architecture. Grotell holds degrees in both architecture and industrial design from Pratt Institute in New York and attended the American Academy in Rome. While in Rome, the confluence between design and industrial processes inspired his focus on smaller objects such as watches and fine jewellery, and he directed his attention to the melding of enduring hand craftsmanship with the most sophisticated production technol-ogy. He subsequently studied jewellery design at Fashion Institute of Technology in Nin New York and launched his career.

Originally, a senior architect at the international design firm, Naomi Leff and Associates, Grotell worked on the design and development of prestigious retail stores for Polo Ralph Lauren, Saks Fifth Avenue and Giorgio Armani.

In 1990, while working on a new retail innovation for Giorgio Armani, Grotell was charged with the creation of a timepiece collection for Armani’s A | X stores. It was this collaboration that resulted in the founding of Grotell Design, Inc. a year later. By applying the insight Grotell honed as an architect to interpret and translate a client’s vision into three-dimensional form, Grotell quickly emerged as the pre-ferred designer among the most discerning fine jewellery and timepiece brands.

In 2000, Grotell began creating and designing for Tiffany & Co, spearheading the re-launch of their international fine watch category. Over ten years, their collabo-ration yielded more than 150 new products, among them several of the world’s most important grand complications and gem set timepieces ever to be produced.

After years of working on behalf of other brands, Grotell has finally launched his own collection of fine timepieces for women, Poetic Time. Dedicated to singular handcrafted timepieces, Poetic Time designs will be available exclusively at his new atelier on Manhattan’s Madison Avenue.

steven grotell interview luxurious magazine

“ORCHIDS IN BLUME” - PT-013Whether at home in the city, at the beach or in the office, I love the exotic, delicate and graceful beauty of orchids. My wife and I love to give orchids as gifts and orchids as a theme have found their way into my work on many occa-sions. They are indeed a symbol or love, elegance and luxury.

This secret watch in platinum features a miniature marquetry in hand carved South Sea mother of pearlof natural color with emerald and moonstone accents and hand carved platinum vines on a field of 578 micro pave diamonds and set within a bezel with pink sapphire baguettes.This watch as a platinum case body, round white diamond lugs and mother of pearl décor plate. Hand engraved mother of pearl dial with intense fancy pink diamond markers and an inlayed mother of pearl case back. The silk satin strap and platinum jejewelry clasp are fully adjustable. Two hand Swiss quartz movement.

Diamonds: 740 diamonds 1.73 cts. Colored Stones: 66 stones 1.46 cts.Total Carat Weight: 3.19 cts. Precious metal: Platinum – 53.36 gms. White gold – 19.26 gms.

PG: The move from architecture to jewellery design, was this borne out of a pre-existing passion of was it part of natural progression given the clients and indus-try you were working with?

SG: I remember as a child going with my father on several occasions to the studio and workshop of legendary archi-tect and designer Geroge Nakashima in New Hope, Pennsylvania and watching Nakashima sketch with a big piece of white chalk on magnificent slabs of black walnut, which were ultimately turned into his iconic furniture designs. There was something authoritative and powerful yyet memorably Zen-like about the conviction of his ges-tures. Whatever it was, it was unforgettable and ultimately let to the pursuit of architecture and industrial design aca-demically and professionally.

As a young architect working in Manhattan I fell into the world of retail architecture and worked on design projects for some of the most important figures in the world of fash-ion related retailing. However, at one point it occurred to me that what I really liked about the world of retail architecture wasn’t so much the architecture as it was the products that were being displayed and celebrated.

Coincidently, my first exposure to fine jewelry came at just about at the same time. I was introduced to the world of watches and fine jewelry by the woman who has been my wife for the past 25 years. My wife Varda grew up in Rome and later worked for her family’s business that specialized

in fine pearls and estate jewelry. Before meeting her I had never really taken notice of jewelry, precious materials or thought very much about the concept of personal adorn-ment. However, after being exposed through her to impor-tant signed pieces from houses like Cartier, Van Cleef & Arpels and La Cloche Freres or individual pieces by jewel-ers like Flato or Verdura I was hooked. At the end of the day, it occurred to me that the work was nothing less than minia-ture architecture. While the scale is incredibly different, the human and ergonometric factors are remarkably similar as is the deep regard for historical precedent, material and industrial process.

Armed with this new passion, I approached one of my clients in the fashion related retail world and proposed that we needed to design and produce a collection of watches under his name for the opening of the new retail concept and store. He agreed and the rest is history.

PG: What was the first piece of jewellery/time piece that you created that you truly felt was your own?

SG:SG: It wasn’t until just before the birth of our first child in 1990 that I decided to design and produce my first piece of jewelry. A one-of-a-kind design as a gift for all that she had experienced during her pregnancy and all that the birth of our first child represented to both of us. Without any previ-ous experience designing or producing a piece of jewelry I came up with an idea for a ring based around a small but eexceptional intense fancy blue diamond. (Yes, our first child was a boy) The diamond was mounted sideways within a square shank measuring only 1.20 millimeters on each side and then set with micro pave diamonds on each of the three visible surfaces.

Every artisan to whom I showed the design came back saying “impossible” the metal would be reduced to Swiss cheese and would ultimately have no structural integrity. However, the more I dove into the design fueled by the notion “if you can draw it you can build it” I came up with a solution that would allow the gem setters to maintain the design intent without compromising the structural integrity of the platiof the platinum.

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luxurious magazine steven grotell interview

>> collection it if I didn’t put everything else aside and take the plunge.

II also knew with great clarity that the category that I wanted to “own” was the ladies gem set cocktail and evening watch category. I had been watching that void in the marketplace for years. I knew that I wanted to produce only one-of-a-kind and extremely limited edition pieces. I wanted Grotell to be exclusive but not exclusionary and I wanted to demystify the magnificent. The rest falls somewhere between memory and imaginationand imagination.

PG: One question that I always like to ask, purely out of personal interest and my own experiences - do you recall your emotions on your first day of work at Grotell?

SG: This is actually a great question. Twenty-one years ago when I left architecture to pursue a path in the timepiece and jewelry sphere I very vividly remember the first day of my transition. I remember sitting in the back of a NYC taxi cab as it traveled down 5th Avenue in Manhattan and stopped at a red light at the intersection of 57th Street and 5th Avenue. I remember looking out the window of the taxi atat the Atlas clock perched over the entry to Tiffany & Co. on 5th Avenue and thinking to myself, that someday I was going to re-design their entire watch category. I also remember during the same drive passing the A La Vieille Russie store located in the Sherry Netherland Hotel on 5th Avenue and also saying that someday, that space would be the flagship location for my own brand. While I ultimately did endend up re-designing Tiffany’s entire watch category I eagerly await the day that the A La Vieille Russie location will be mine.

>> Fast forward 22 years, this piece remains the only piece of jewelry that my wife has worn every day since the birth of our son. The ring has never been taken off and remains one of her most important and emotionally infused possessions.

NotNot only was it my first piece of jewelery but also it remains the benchmark and foundation for everything that I am designing and producing today. Thus the beginning of an extraordinary dialogue between me and myself as to the emotional power of the category. As a brilliant merchant once said to me, “if its not going to be emotional, its not worth producing”.

WWhat’s interesting here is the emerging trend at least here in New York relative to what is becoming known as the “push present”. Unlike an engagement diamond, which based on current statistics has a better chance of being taken off, sold or transformed as a result of divorce, the “push present” always remains.

PGPG: Did you find it frustrating/restrictive working with the larger luxury retailers?

SG:SG: Over the course of my career, I have had the privilege and opportunity to work for some of the most important luxury brands and luxury retailers in the watch and jewelry sphere. Most often, these clients would come to me not to design just another collection based on a rather well defined series of actuarial based parameters but more to help them define what should come next in succession relatirelative to the evolution of their brand or to recapture market share across an entire product category. I have always been very good at developing solutions for complex prob-lems. Identifying voids in the marketplace and developing distinct and recognizable design solutions that speak to a broad range of demographic markets.

Logically all of the large luxury retailers are looking for the next iconic product such as Alhambra is for Van Cleef & Arpels or as J12 is for Channel. Designing toward those goals is a challenging and invigorating exercise. However, during the years that I was designing for the large luxury groups and retailers what was most often missing was the emotional component. Unfortunately, most of what is dedefined as luxury has become commoditized, globalized and defused within a vast sea of homogenized and over assorted offerings. It’s all very noisy and lacks the emo-tional component that I am working to establish in my current body of work and in the relationships that I am working to build with my clients.

PG: When did the idea of Grotell first form?

SG: I think that the idea for Poetic Time and Grotell was always there in the background. However, it was not until three years ago when my now 18-year-old daughter con-fronted me with “dad, you have been designing for every-one and their grandmother for the past 20 years. Has it never occurred to you to do something for yourself” that I really took a step back and decided that I would probably always regret not designing and producing my own -


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>> The consumers who wear these products wear them with pride and with a great deal of satisfaction. From a business perspective, it’s a category that’s hard not to appreciate. However, I am not sure that these products should fall under the category of luxury.

AsAs an example, I love my Hermes portfolio bag. I appreciate the design the materials and the quality. It has just the right proportions and weight in the hand. However, it’s ultimately something that anyone else in the world can also have or aspire to have. It’s never going to be something that is just mine and mine alone. ItIt wasn’t made just for me. It isn’t a poem whis-pered only into my ear. True luxury is a pursuit that should be approached without limitation or inhibition. Luxury should be a form of self-expression. In my mind, the natural reaction to the sameness of mass produced high end products should be to look for things that arindividually created. The arena of handmade one of a kind products allows people to make a statement not just about life style and aesthetic preferences but should create an intimate dialogue between the user and the object that can not be duplicated.

A self assured, singular statement allowing the wearer to become their own brand rather than seeking to define themselves by the brand that they are wearing. I know that my client loves and respects the idea that she’s buying some-thing from an artisan who puts forth their effort and creativity specifically for them and that ththey are entering into a personal relationship with an artisan and that’s a very hard quality to find in a mass produced high end luxury product.

I am currently only a few blocks north on Madison Avenue so I guess I am getting close. Starting anything new is always exhilarating and daunting. I have always been convinced that if you love what you do and approach each day with passion and persistence mixed with a good dose of humility you will ultimately succeed. I guess it could be said that the first day at Grotell was really 21 years ago at a red light along 5th Avenue and that it’s just taken a really long time to gestate.

PGPG: If you could pick five words that summarised Grotell today what would these be and would these words be the same ones that you started the company with?

SG: With each day comes with constant stream of learning experiences. When I look back on the relatively short history of Poetic Time and the Grotell collection of products I keep coming back to the same five thoughts established on day one.

CClarity – Approach each design with clarity

Emotion – Infuse each design with emotion

Authenticity –Produce each design with authenticity

Transparency – Demystify the magnificent in the eyes of the client

Humility – Relish the reaction with humility

PG: How do you gain your inspiration?

SG:SG: Inspiration is all around us. For me, its inescapable and very often overwhelming. It’s really all about absorbing the world around me like a sponge. My sketchbooks are filled with the most obscure and diverse frag-ments. It’s gotten to the point where I cannot only keep the most current sketchbook out on my work surface. Complicating things even more is the vast world of inspiration that lives out there in the digital ether and figuring out how to meld the sketchbook with the computer.

I recently saw a wonderful documentary film, Jiro Dreams of Sushi. It’s the story of 85 year-old Jiro Ono, considered by many to be the world's great-est sushi chef. A wonderfully thoughtful and elegant meditation on work and the art of perfection. Just under 90 minutes of total inspiration.

On the other hand, I just waited in line for two hours to see Yayoi Kusama’s “fireflies on the water” installation at the Whitney Museum here in New York.

The instillation is designed so that only one viewer at a time can enter the space for a period of one minute.

WWhile the instillation as a work of art provided food for thought, the real inspiration came from the expressions on the faces of each viewer as he or she entered and then exited the space one minute later.

PG: What are your thoughts on mass produced high end luxury products?

SG:SG: There are some truly well conceived and thoughtfully designed mass produced high-end luxury products in the marketplace. I would even consider some to be iconic within the landscape of corporate luxury. Many such designs have turned out to be superb ambassadors for their brands.


What we choose to buy is a form of self-expression and that the natural reaction to the sameness of the products available to us is to look for things that are individually created.

Steven Grotell One of a Kind Ring Watch. Available in 18k white or yellow gold.

PG: You've decided not to brand your exquisite pieces, have you ever been tempted to reverse that decision?

SG:SG: While the name of the business is Poetic Time I do not see that in itself being the name of the brand. Much like the most masterful pieces of English silver, only a series of three discretely placed hallmark stamps on the case back, the buckle or the strap identify the work. One hallmark is a hummingbird. Because of its ability to fly backwards, the metaphor here is that while we can look b back on our past wewe need not dwell there and should always move forward savoring each moment and appreciating the things that we love. The second stamp is an intersection of my initials “SG” and the third is a lotus flower, primarily because it was once believed that it flowered and bore fruit at the same time thus symbolizing the ability to transcend the limitations of time.

It’s not my ego as a designer that needs to be expressed through he placement of my name on a case back or on a dial but ultimately the woman who wears the work that should remain the hero and become her own brand.

TheThere is a wonderful book “Women Who Run With the Wolves” by Clarissa Pinkola Estees. Among many other things, the book maintains that within every woman there is a place filled with extraordinary passion, creativity and self-confidence. Once a woman finds that place within her-self or once a man realizes that about the woman in his life, the need for homogenized branding, logos or design signatures is diluted.

As previously discussed, its ultimately the woman who wears the pieces that becomes the brand and not the brand that defines the woman.

>> The piece itself is only a talisman of great self-confidence and emotional response. In my mind, every woman is one of a kind and should give herself the permis-sion to present herself and one of a kind.

PG: When I ask most high-end designers ‘what is the greatest piece they have created’, they usually say it’s the latest/current model, would this be the same with yourself?

SG:SG: Unfortunately, or perhaps fortunately, I tend to be far too emotionally invested in each design to single any one out as being the best that I have created. My approach to design has always been more from the perspective of “the wine will be ready when the wine is ready” rather than that of throwing the spaghetti against the wall to see what sticks. Although I can be quite prolific in the generation of new designdesigns, many will sit for months if not years until I feel that they are ready for development and worthy to see the light of day.

In many ways, each new design is a bit like one of my chil-dren. You conceive them, you nurture them you watch them develop you point them in what you feel if the right direction and then you need to let them go and find their own place in the world. You love them all equally, embrace their differences, their strengths and their shortcomings and ultimately hope that the happiness that they gave to you they then are able to give to someone else. Ultimately, if a woman who wears one of my designs feels that it is the single greatest piece of jewelry that she owns then it’s that piece then that becomes at least for her the greatest piece that I have created.

luxurious magazine steven grotell interviewI


steven grotell interview luxurious magazine

PG: Do you allow much external input during the creative and design process?

SG:SG: Much of my work is based on a highly collaborative process. Having worked in the watch and jewelry industry for the past twenty years both domestically and thought Europe. I have had the opportunity to work with some of the most talentalented and magical hands in the industry. Hands that are almost always yearning for a voice. Hands that are yearning to be pushed past their current limits and hands that reach new heights when asked to hold hands with other artisans with whomwhom they may be familiar but never considered collaborating with.

Think about it in terms of Run DMC and Areosmith’s 1986 rap rock collaboration of “Walk this Way” and the cultural impact that this totally unexpected collaboration has had on the entire music industry. In many ways, this is a perfect and perhapsperhaps more tangible example of what I have been working to inte-grate into my creative and design process.

Always look for the unexpected, always push for the impossible and always do it in a way that’s authen-tic, authoritative and sincere. Ultimately, if you do not embrace the opportunity to inject external input into the design process 1+1 will aalways equal 2 rather than 3 or 5.

PG: How do you arrive at the wonderful names for each of your unique pieces?

SG: The inspiration for each piece falls somewhere “between memory and imagination” and is usually rooted in some obscure metaphor or parable. I guess it’s not surprising that I named the business Poetic Time. An attention grabbing title will putput your work in someone’s hand but whether or not he or she actually reads it will ultimately depend on the quality of the writing itself. I guess I am at heart a bit of a storyteller and every story needs a good title rather than just a six-digit inventory nnumber.

This secret watch in platinum with rotating lid is designed as a celebra-tion of time spent with friends and family over a great bottle of wine while looking out over the vineyard. The hand-carved platinum grape leaves and vines are hand set with 392 392 round white diamonds mounted on a polished onyx base and set within a round white diamond bezel. The watch has platinum case body; platinum lugs set with round white diamonds and an inlayed mother of pearl décor plate. The hand engraved mother of pearl dial has engraved mother of pearl dial has four diamond markers, and the case back is inlayed with black Chinese lacquer highlighting the three Poetic Time hallmark stamps. The silk satin strap and platinum jewelry clasp are fully adjustable. Two hand Swiss quartz movement.quartz movement.

This secret watch in platinum with rotating lid features nine Lily pads oating on a pave diamond pond. The lily pads are composed of 130 uniquely cut baguette diamonds oating on a pave diamond eld and set within a baguette diamond bezel. The watches have a full pave bezel. The watches have a full pave diamond case body, baguette diamond lugs and full pave diamond decor plate. Hand engraved mother of pearl dial with diamond markers and an inlaid mother of pearl case back highlighting the three Poetic Time hallmark stamps. The silk satin Time hallmark stamps. The silk satin strap, and platinum jewelry clasp are fully adjustable. Two hand Swiss quartz movement.

This secret watch in platinum with rotating lid features a composition illustrating hummingbirds and petunia owers composed of individually hand cut buff top Burmese rubies, sapphires, emer-alds and black spinel on a pave diamond eld and set within a bezel diamond eld and set within a bezel with buff top ruby baguettes. This watch as a platinum case body, buff top sapphire baguette lugs and a full pave diamond décor plate. Hand engraved mother of pearl dial with cabochon ruby markers and an inlaid mother of pearl case back inlaid mother of pearl case back highlighting the three Poetic Time hallmark stamps. The silk satin strap, and platinum jewelry clasp are fully adjustable. Two hand Swiss quartz movement.

“LILY POND PRINCESS”PT-002

“OF TIME AND VINE”PT-003

“SWEET PETUNIA”PT-006

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Steven Grotell one-of-a-kind gold and diamond ring watches

EachEach of these unique ring watches manufactured in Geneva, Switzerland is produced in either 18K white gold or in a specially developed formula of 18K yellow gold and are configured with the smallest and most accurate Swiss quartz movements. Dials of naturally colocolored mother of pearl or thinly sliced hard stones such as turquoise, onyx and corral are juxtaposed with aquamarines, sapphires, citrines, tourmalines and diamonds.

>> As you will see in my work, I love to mix materials and processes. It’s all a great big collage on a very small canvas. Mixing marquetry mother of pearl with micro pave diamonds. Mixing hand engraving with champlevé enamel-ing. Mixing a Venetian glass micro mosaic with buff top Mediterranean coral. It’s all about the unexpected use of seemingly desperate colors, materials, textures and pro-cesses. Perhaps because I come from outside of the indus-try I tend to be a bit irreverent in my processes and use of material tempered with a huge dose of historical and indus-trial precedent.

As for the movements, over the years, I have been involved in a number of world first horological complications. The “Boy’s Toy’s” as I like to refer to them. However, short of making the commitment to move full time to Geneva or within proximity to the watch making centers of Valee Joux or La Chaux de Fonds I have come to the realization that my stage the world of high jewelry watches and that the hahard core horological gymnastics are best left to the true experts. Although probably a bit scandalous to industry pur-ists, I really do believe that the mechanical movement or the mechanical complication is not the primary consider-ation in the design and development of a high jewelry watch. After all, mess not, with a freshly manicured hand.

PG: What gives you the greatest pleasure within the boundaries of Grotell?

SG: Having designed anonymously on behalf of some of the world’s most important brands for many years, one of my greatest pleasures was sitting in a restaurant, an airport lounge or in a hotel lobby and seeing a woman walk by

wearing one of my designs. Watching her wear thatdesign with design with grace and confidence and knowing

that it was chosen by her or for her overhundreds of other offerings and smilingquietly to myself. However, now with

Grotell, it’s all about havingthe opportunity to interact

personally with eachand and every one of myclients and smiletogether with

them.

www.grotell.com

PG: Talk us through the materials you commonly use in the construction of your timepieces, including the movement

SG:SG: I have always loved materials and material science. I have been known to pester material scientists and engi-neers all over the world. However, getting them to move past questions related to physical and performance proper-ties to the more superficial “how is going to look at 20.00mm or when its polished can often be a conversation ender. That said, every once and a while you engage with a material scientist or engineer who has an underlying pas-sion for the visual to go along for the ride in order to deter-mine if something that they have been developing for the aerospace or for the bio medical industry can be applied to the realm of physical adornment.

Although there seems to be a trend toward the develop-ment of brand specific alloys as a marketing device, I some-how always gravitate back to platinum. To me, platinum is a crisp material allowing for wonderfully delineated and defined surfaces and shapes. It’s a hard material, it fights back. You have to throw allot of yourself into working with it in order to find just the right touch just the right balance and structure. Its color picks up on everything that surrounds it. In many ways, it’s a chameleon like material. Not only does it take on and embody the spirit of the artisan but also its environment and its wearer. In many ways, I find it the per-fect canvas for embodying a design concept. It’s also one of the hardest materials to tame and to perfect. Who knew that the price of platinum would at least for the time being is less than the price of gold.

luxurious magazine watchesI

The Rolls-Royce PhantomCoupé Aviator Collection

The Phantom Coupé Aviator Collection was the brainchild of Rolls-Royce Motor Cars’ in-house design team who wished, from a brand and marketing perspective, to create an aviation-based vehicle to recount the fascinating and little known story of Charles Stewart Rolls, the co-founder of one today’s most revered automotive marques.

Rolls, an engineer by trade, had a pas-sion for moving things forward and for speed; he raced a bicycle in Cambridge, and later participated in some of the early TT trophy car races, before turning his attention to his love of flying, because in his own words, “there wwere no policemen in the air”. Charles was involved in the early days of ballooning, founding the Royal Aero Club in 1901, and met aviation pioneers, the Wright brothers, at an air show during a visit to the USA in 1906.

Two years later, in October 1908, Rolls made his first flight with Wilbur Wright in Le Mans (France), and later purchased his own Wright Flyer. Teaching himself to fly, and only the second person to hold in Britain to hold a private pilot’s licence, he used the aircraft in 1910 to becomebecome the first pilot to fly across the English Channel and back non-stop, a feat which was recognised with a per-sonal letter from King George and the status of a national hero.

However, later that year, he was tragi-cally killed at the young age of 32, when his plane broke up in mid air during a public display in Bournemouth on the south coast of England.

To pay tribute to Charles Royce, and inspired by the record-holding Schneider Trophy-winning Supermarine S6B (powered by a Rolls-Royce R Type engine), Rolls-Royce created the Phantom Coupé Aviator Collection, a limited run of 35 cars centered entirely araround the theme of aviation. Commanding a base net price tag of €430,000 ($469,000) plus an additional

by Simon Wittenberg

luxurious magazine luxurious motoring


>> €40,000 ($55,000) premium for the exterior and inte-rior detailing of the Aviator Collection (still excluding the other options available for the Phantom Coupé such as a leather boot and starlight headliner), all eight models des-tined for the USA were sold in just two days at the model’s global debut at the Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance in August 2012.

The remainder are nearly all spoken for following displays in Moscow and Paris, and production of the outstanding 34 units at Rolls-Royce’s facility at Goodwood (England) is due to start in November, with first deliveries to customers scheduled to take place in the second and third quarters of 2013. The attention to detail displayed on both the inside and outside of the Phantom Coupé Aviator Collection, is nothingnothing short of exceptional. The body of the car is finished in Aviator Grey, a unique colour exclusive to this variant, which features a contrasting gloss and matt bonnet, A-frame, and wheels, harking back to the reflective and non-reflective surfaces which can be seen in the eye-line of the pilot in the S6B.

For the interior, the cabin is dressed in brown chestnut leather (also available in black or navy), once again exclu-sive to the Aviator Collection and reminiscent of vintage planes and old bomber jackets. The leather-lined glove compartment sports an embossed Charles Rolls quote following his first flight with the Wright Brothers in 1908: “The power of flight is as a fresh gift from the Creator, the ggreatest treasure yet given to man”.

A centre console chrome plaque describes Rolls simply as “Pioneer Aviator”, below a representation of his sweeping signature. The floor-mats are lined with saddle leather in contrast to lambswool which is normally associated with a car of this type.

Aviator Collection cars have also been designed to incorpo-rate the Rolls-Royce of cup holders. Mechanical in their fixings, and spun from a solid piece of aluminium, the designer’s aim was to deliver functionality, but with that special combination of theatre and jewellery, both of which are expected by every Rolls-Royce client. Between 1931 and 1933, the Schneider Trophy was held in the South of England,England, soaring over the Solent and the Witterings in West Sussex, a location no more than 10 miles from the current home of Rolls-Royce. Collection cars celebrate the victori-ous S6B aircraft, a predecessor to the legendary Spitfire, with a transmission tunnel in anodised aluminium fixed to the body of the car, boasting polished exposed torx fixings and swage lines that mirror the oil cooling veins on the fuselage. These highlights are further repeated on the arm-rests.

The lower fascia is veneered in mahogany, painstakingly shaped by craftspeople just as the early record-setting pro-pellers were fashioned. Polished stainless steel veneer ‘onlays’ with bullet-shaped ends have been designed to match floor mat fixings. The instrumentation dials of the car hint strongly at a cockpit theme. An aviation-grade clock with blood orange needle tips from the Swiss aircraft instru-ment maker, Revue Thommen, similar to that found in a Tornado fighter jet, has been integrated with the car’s elec-tronics, which is beautifully complemented by matt black dials for the power reserve, speedometer, and fuel gauges.

With thanks to Colette Healy, Product Manager for Bespoke and the Aviator Collection, for a personal tour of the Rolls-Royce Phantom Coupé Aviator Collection.

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luxurious magazine aston martin DB9


DB9 13MY boasts new styling, revised engineering and enhanced luxuryAston Martin reveals full details of the latest major enhancementsto its iconic Sports GT car, the luxurious and potent DB9.

Appearing hot on the heels of the all-new Vanquish Super GT, the introduction of 13 Model Year DB9 gives the British luxury sports car maker the perfect opportunity to further enrich the appeal of its mainstay in the GT sector, with significant developments affecting styling inside and out, plus key changes under the new DB9’s classically beautiful ‘skin’.

TheThe styling changes see DB9 adopt an even more lithe, fluid and pure form reminiscent of the outgoing Aston Martin Virage which ceases production with immediate effect. Taking a classic Aston Martin GT silhouette as its base, the new DB9 adds a more pronounced rear boot ‘flip’ to further enhance the aerodynamic performance of the car.

TheThe exterior design of the DB9 communicates a powerfully assertive yet elegant character. The surfaces display taut lines and subtle muscular forms that point to the underlying power of this renowned Sports GT.

DB9 sits low and wide, visually ‘planting’ the car on the road, communicating a clearly athletic stance. The car’s inherent width is accentuated by the ‘light catcher’ feature which runs from the lower front bumper and continues along the sill of the car creating a chiselled, determined look.

AAvailable from launch in either Coupe or Volante body styles, DB9 13MY clearly has a strong breadth of appeal.

Bi-xenon headlamps provide the car with a clear focus, while subtle feature lines run along and underneath the headlamps, visually widening the car.

AA large lower front grille feeds air into the standard Carbon Ceramic Braking system, while the front splitter also serves to visually widen the car. For those DB9 buyers in search of an even more sporty appearance there is now a carbon fibre front splitter available as part of the exterior Carbon Pack.

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aston martin DB9 luxurious magazine

More power from updated 6.0-litre V12 engine, increased to 517 PS

Look a little closer and the true beauty of the DB9’s details becomes apparent. The front grille, for instance – inspired by the design of Aston Martin’s sold-out One-77 hypercar – features five hori-zontal vanes which are chamfered to create an aerofoil profile. Meanwhile the bonnetbonnet vents are authentic zinc with distinctive vanes. These, along with the new grille and pronounced side strakes, are classic Aston Martin design cues.

DB9 13MY also features Aston Martin’s integrated side strake and LED side-repeaters. The long strake accentuates the lean, long lines of the DB9’s nose. Once again, Aston Martin’s craftsman-ship is clearly demonstrated in the use of metal grilles and clean lines of the polished metal castings. At the rear of the car, the DB9’s wide track width and muscular rear haunches clearly com-municate the power delivered at the rear wheels.

Inside, as out, the revised DB9 becomes yet more elegant and more luxurious. Unmistakably Aston Martin, the Sports GT’s opulently-appointed interior boasts authentic materials and the highest levels of attention to detail.

FFor instance, DB9 13MY comes with a stunning leather welt feature first seen on Virage. Inspired by luxury leather goods, the welts have been designed and developed by Aston Martin’s master craftsmen. Requiring meticulous levels of control to hand stitch and specially-developed manufacturing facilities, the welts are created by sandwiching a narrow strip of leather between two opposing leather seat panels, and fixed using precise stitching. A further dem-onstration of Aston Martin’s renowned attention to detail and craftsmanship can be seen in the jewel-like glass switchgear used throughout the interior of the revised DB9. Details such as these glass switches clearly demon-strate the luxury sports car maker’s commitment to the use of authentic, high value materials.

Those DB9 buyers seeking an even more sporting ambience inside might

be tempted by an additional interior option on DB9 13MY – Aston Martin’s lightweight seats. These are available when the 2+0 seating option is selected and use a state-of-the-art carbon fibre and Kevlar® composite structure.

WWhen specified, the seats save 17kg per car as well as offering occupants more support at the shoulders. This improves comfort and reduces stress on the back during long stints of focused dynamic driving in particular.

AsAston Martin Chief Executive Officer Dr Ulrich Bez said: “I am very excited to be unveiling the new DB9 now. My team here at Gaydon has been working hard for many months to improve and update key aspects of this superb Sports GT – the mainstay of our sports carcar range – and I believe the results to be exceptional.

“Aside from the undeniably beautiful exterior styling and now even more luxurious interior, there are many impor-tant and impressive engineering

- changes that demonstrate Aston Martin’s renowned ability to create compelling cars in the modern era.”

Engineering - Great British innovationThisThis DB9 sees the introduction of the new generation AM11 V12 engine. The new V12 takes some of the ‘Gen4’ VH architecture hardware technology developed for Aston Martin’s forthcom-ing all-new super GT, the Vanquish, but has been tuned to suit the character of DB9DB9. The result is an engine with effort-less torque of up to 620 Nm and peak power of 517 PS – both significantly improved versus the outgoing unit.

Key features of the AM11 unit include a revised block and new head including dual variable valve timing, enlarged throttle bodies, uprated fuel pump, revised intake manifold and machined combustion chambers.


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Meanwhile, DB9 13MY achieves com-pliance with the latest European pedes-trian protection regulations and does so in a new way that is without any com-promise to the exterior design of the car and does without the need for other-wise surplus deployable systems

To accomplish this, Aston Martin’s designers and engineers have worked together to make significant changes to the underbody structure of the car including a lowered engine, new bonnet, front bumper construction and grille surround moulding. Their resulting designdesign is the subject of patent pending applications and enables the grille to move rearwards on impact, whilst the central and outboard chin stiffeners give rigidity to the lower structure and sup-port achievement of the leg impact regulations. Cut-outs on the front wing catwalks contribute to the achievement of the headform regulation.

This means Aston Martin is able to avoid conventional solutions such as the use of plastic grilles and straightfor-ward nose cone bumpers that stretch up in front of the bonnet. Instead, it has created a clever new and bespoke solu-tion that preserves the unmistakable visual appeal of the VH architecture leading edge bonnet and its extruded aluminium grille.

Dr Bez said: “The new AM11 V12 engine together with our unique and patent pending solution for enhanced pedestrian protection – these are clear examples of the engineering excel-lence that continues to make Aston Martin the creator of the most desired andand admired luxury sports cars in the world.”

Chassis - Important upgrades all roundThe DB9 13MY boasts a number of important enhancements over the out-going car’s already impressive inven-tory. The braking system, for instance, now uses as standard Carbon Ceramic Matrix (CCM) discs and callipers sup-plied by acknowledged global brake experts Brembo.

While this DB9 offers a refined, comfort-able sports GT driving experience, the new carbon brakes provide the confi-dence and reassurance of reduced brake fade when pressing the car to its sports capability.

CCM consists of a compound of carbon fibre which is impregnated with silicon, injected into a mould and baked at ultra-high temperature.

The resulting material is not only much tougher than conventional cast iron discs but also dissipates heat more rap-idly to provide reduced fading.

The brake rotors, (398mm diameter at the front, 360mm at the rear), are mounted onto the bespoke disc bells using a ‘floating disc’ system. This allows the discs to flex relative to their mountings thereby making them less prone to ‘judder’.

TheThe discs are cross-drilled to help keep the brake pads clean while also helping to ensure that gases emitted by the pads during braking do not build up between the pad and disc surface. The holes also help to cool the surface of the pads and the discs themselves. Air inintakes mounted behind the lower front grille also force feed air into the brake discs to aid cooling.

Saving around 12.5 kg versus a conven-tional cast iron system the DB9’s CCM brakes not only reduce overall vehicle weight but also mean that a better balance between ride comfort and han-dling can be struck. The lower rotational mass also gives improved acceleration, braking and steering feel.

aston martin DB9 luxurious magazine

enhance the luxury look and feel of their Aston Martin sports car can select from an extensive range of optional equip-ment features.

DB9 13MY features the optional revers-ing camera currently available on the Rapide four-door sports car and forth-coming Vanquish super GT. The camera – standard in the US market – is integrated into the rear boot lid above the number plate, with the image visible on the LCD screen folding out of the centre stack. The reversing camera is activated when reverse gear is selected and is deactivated once the car is driv-ing forwards at more than 5 mph.

Meanwhile there are two Carbon Packs introduced on DB9 13MY – one exterior and one interior – to offer further per-sonalisation possibilities. All of the carbon fibre has a 2 x 2 twill design that is finished with a clear lacquer. The exterior pack comprises carbon fibre ffront splitter and rear diffuser, carbon fibre mirror arms and caps and dark tailpipes with a graphitic finish. The inte-rior pack offers a carbon fibre upper facia, carbon fibre gear selector paddles and carbon fibre door pulls. Buyers can opt for either Aston Martin wings or DB9 headrest embroidery.

The luxury sports car also boasts Aston Martin’s ‘Gen4’ VH architecture version of the brand’s Adaptive Damping System (ADS). This next generation ADS has been enhanced to include three modes: Normal, Sport and Track.

InIn ‘Normal’ mode, the damping is set to deliver the greatest ride comfort, with the electronically controlled dampers automatically adjusting to provide the optimum settings to suit driver input, speed and the road surface quality. In ‘Sport’ mode, the damping is set-up to bebe more focused at delivering sharper handling and control during dynamic driving while in the ‘Track’ mode the damping operates within the range of its stiffest settings.

The different damping modes available help appreciably broaden DB9’s char-acter, adapting its set-up to suit the driver’s requirements in different con-texts. It can be a comfortable and com-pliant GT car in Normal mode as well as being a firm and direct sports car in Sport setting and offering highly precise flat cornering in Track mode.

Equipment - Luxury comes as standardAs befits a luxury GT in this class DB9 13MY of course features convenience items such as automatic headlights, now operated by a new master switch unit control panel located on the lower instrument panel beneath the driver’s side air-vent.

AAutomatic windscreen wipers are also a standard-fit feature, with their operation triggered by a rain sensor built into the header pod in front of the rear-view mirror.

AArch-filling 20-inch alloys wheels in a variety of designs, full-grain leather interior, leather sports steering wheel, electrically adjustable Sports seats with side airbags, memory seats and exte-rior mirrors, satellite navigation, auto-matic temperature control, trip computer and Organic Electroluminescent (OEL) displays – the DB9 13MY’s list of standard equipment is suitably gener-ous while buyers keen to further

The DB9 embroidery design has been refreshed and also has a new stitch pat-tern on 13MY cars.Finally, a leather headlining is now available as an option on DB9. The large central panel of the headlining can be finished in leather, while the cant rail trim and header trim rremain Alcantara-coloured.

Summarising the significantly enhanced appeal of the DB9 13MY, product manager Andy Haslam said: “DB9 has, rightly, been positioned at the hub of our GT segment offerings for some years now.

“The introduction of this significantly enhanced 13MY car means Aston Martin buyers have a very clear and compelling model line-up from which to choose. “Taking the best elements of Virage, adding important new upgrades and combining these with thethe iconic DB9 nomenclature we have created a compelling new Sports GT that sits proudly at the very heart of the Aston Martin sports car range.

“With the exceptional new Vanquish super GT occupying the top of the range, there is now a clear and logical step from DB9.”

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The Chinese TimekeeperPaul Godbold: Adrien, before we talk about The Chinese Timekeeper, let’s find out a little more about you. When did your fascination with watches and all things horological begin?

AAdrien Choux: I must admit my passion for watches came about quite recently. It all started when I joined the remark-able Panerai brand in Hong Kong 7 years ago. From that moment onwards I was completely hooked!

I had some previous experience with important brand names but to my shame it was while practicing my Mandarin; bargaining prices with shopkeepers in the vari-ous fake markets around Shanghai 12 years ago!

PG: As you’ve just mentioned; you’d previously worked at one of the worlds most foremost luxury companies, Officine Panerai. Has your time at this company influ-enced what you do?

AC: It has! To start with, it created a fascination for time-pieces that pushed me to launch my own brand. But it also taught me a lot in terms of product development and marketing. My time at Panerai in Asia was very fruitful as I encountered many successes and great people who are now my friends.

Interview by Paul Godbold

ChouxAdrien



adrien choux luxurious magazine

that was my Eureka Moment! Su Song became my muse, my inspiration and where I found the main design features in all CTK watches.

Going back to the main differences, 2 points come to mind:1. The sandwich case with 4 layers reflects the shape of a Chinese pagoda (used to display the time in the clock tower)22. The buckle inspired by the armillary sphere dominating the clock tower for the Chinese emperor to understand the positioning of the stars.

The Chinese Timekeeper is unique in every aspect and is today a timepiece with an unprecedented character; appealing to a large audience.

PGPG: How has the reception of your watch collections been received in Hong Kong and further afield?

AAC: For the first collection and most definitely our second collection the reception has been overwhelming The design, the character of the watches, the details or even the jade collection are all elements that have been highly appreciated. But CTK is more that just a watch - it repre-sents the passion and know-how of one nation.

This was the hardest part of our message! We are proudly crafted in China and yes, today we are the only luxury watch brand that is proudly Chinese ...

PG: Looking back, do you recall the moment when you decided 'I'm going to create my own company'? And what what were your emotions when you knew that this was actually going to happen?

AAC: Absolutely! It was one day in December 2008 when I was casually chatting with a very dear watchmaker friend of mine. We dreamed of building a watch. A watch brand for me (the marketer) and a watch with many complications for my friend (the watchmaker). The spark was ignited, and the idea grew in me slowly at first, until a conversation with my Dad in September 2009 that made me realise that it could notnot be just a 'part-time' idea. The next morning and for the following 6 months I was up working at 6am creating The Chinese Timekeeper.

PG: PG: Starting a business in one’s own country is complicated. How easy has it been to do it in Hong Kong?

AC: Hong Kong is a business-friendly place. It took me 2 years to create CTK on my own with little savings. The same thing would be impossible in Europe! The biggest feature of starting a business in Hong Kong is the positivity of the people! There is a constant 'yes you can' attitude that has helped me to move up and forward everyday.

PGPG: The Chinese Timekeeper collections are as distinc-tive from the side as they are from the front. Talk us through some of the major elements that distinguish your watches from the competition.

AC: Through my research on Chinese timekeeping I came across Su Song. He was a most brilliant mind, astronomer and engineer at the court of the 7th emperor of the Song Dynasty. He built the world’s most renowned water-driven clock tower incorporating an escapement mechanism. 600 years before anything similar would appear in Europe.

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The Chinese Timekeeper Limited82 Stone Nullah Lane

WanchaiHong Kong

Phone: (+852) 2893 2382

He is proving this in his great movie ($upercapitalist) and I hope I'm doing the same with CTK. We are only at the beginning of our work together and I hope it will lead to far greater things!

PGPG: Adrien. I really like the collection and the traditions you have built around them around. I’m sure that our readers would like to know more. How can they get in contact with you and where can the watches be pur-chased from?

AC: Thank you Paul! We have opened our first boutique in HK in the heart of traditional Wanchai (82 Stone Nullah Lane) and we obviously have a website : www.thechinesetimekeeper.com. We are looking into other opportunities in Macau, Dalian, Shanghai, Amsterdam and California... I'll keep you posted! I always take a lot of time to answer each individual questions from our customers so don't be sdon't be shy and drop me a line at [email protected]

PG: Is there anything that you would like to add?

AC: Just to highlight 2 pieces of our latest collection that your readers maybe keen to discover. We have a Jade Automatic collection which is today the only pieces with grade A Burmese jade in the watch industry and they are truly beautiful (we sold 4pieces in one night in Amsterdam with Ace Jewelers!). We have also launched a traditional Chinese 'timekeeper' with the Chinese double hours... AgAgain a very unique timepieces that collectors fall in love with quite easily!

PG: What kind of movements are you using, and how do they compare with those that are Swiss?

AAC: The heart beat of our timepieces is indeed Chinese and where we had to be most careful when selecting our partners. We use simple complication movements (date / small second / automatic) because their accuracy, reliability and finishing is on par with standard ETA movements. We are, admittedly, not yet ready to have high complications in our timepieces. Today we use Tianjin Watch Company & HangzhouHangzhou Watch Company movements which we person-alize & test carefully. They give us great satisfaction.

PG: I do like the brand logo (see bottom right). Was this something that you had in mind from the beginning and how easy was the final choice?

AC: It was somewhere in my mind but came to life with the help of a few talented designer friends of mine... The fine-tuning took quite a while as I wanted The Chinese Timekeeper's logo to be one of the most remarkable in the matchmaking world! Today I think it has this potential.

PG: Do you find much of a difference between the tastes of Eastern and Western watch collectors?

AC: There is clear difference in taste but when it comes to CTK I'm please to say that we have appealed to both Asian & Caucasian... Our customers are all quite avant-garde and willing to try new things. They follow their passion for time-keeping and are now proud to own a piece of Chinese history on their wrist...

PG: Talk us through some of the limited editions you have produced and do you have a personal favourite among these?

AAC: All our pieces are limited edition (yearly) but for the year of the dragon we created an 18 piece Special Edition Dragon Watch in Yellow Gold. Stunning! It’s also one more part of the Chinese culture we are happy to promote and share with our customers. People love it...

PGPG: Earlier this year you announced that Hong Kong actor Derek Ting was to be the first Chinese Time Keeper Brand Ambassador, I'll forgive the oversight in not asking me! Tell us how this came about.

AC: Do you wanna be our second brand ambassador ;-) ?DeDerek was introduced to me by a mutual friend and we clicked immediately. We share a common vision : quality, artistry and talent can be found in HK or China and be appreciated by the rest of the world!

The Chinese TimekeeperAdrien Chouxluxurious magazine adrien chouxI

The partnership between the bladesmith Johan Gustafsson and watchmaker Patrik Sjögren aims to provide truly unique watches, created with inspiration from the cold north of Scandinavia and the ancient Swedish tradition in metallurgy.

Nordic Seasons - Spring from Gustafsson & Sjögren Watches


Spring is the third model in the Nordic Seasons series of watches that are designed with inspiration from the rich contrasts of the nordic seasons. The dial for the Spring is made in tempered pattern welded steel, also known as damascus steel, that has been hand forged in Johan Gustafsson's unique Explosion pattern. The yellow tem-pered coloring of the steel meant to illustrate the return of thethe sun, which is a very important aspect of life in Scandinavia.

Since ancient times, people living in the northern hemi-sphere have had a need to celebrate the arrival of spring with cleansing bonfires and celebration at the end of a cold and dark winter. Swedes do this on April 30, Valborg (Walpurgis Night). Normally, Spring is already well estab-lished in the southern reaches of the country, while north-erners still have to wait a few weeks longer. Nevertheless, this is the evening when Swedes welcome the Spring.

The Nordic Series are the first GoS watches to feature a case in damascus steel. They designed the case based on the previous GoS cases and with a focus to highlight the damascus steel features and the distinctive GoS case shape. One unique feature of the GoS case is the larger diameter of the case back and bezels, which we use to highlight the curved surface of the damascus steel case cocore as the steel pattern is mirrored in the high gloss polished finish.

A damascus steel bezel inset frames the dial. The trade-mark oversize crown in damascus steel has a larger diam-eter than previous GoS models but the height has been reduced to increase overall wearability as the case core is 44.5mm.

The hands of the Nordic Seasons are in the GoS sword shape that premiered in the Stockholm model. An index ring with markers with similar shapes match the hands beauti-fully. All hands and index rings are made in solid gold with a nuance selected to match the color scheme of each season dial. They decided to fit the Nordic Seasons with a strap in black soft nubuck as the matte surface of the straps is a bblends well with the damascus steel finish. These GoS straps are handmade in Switzerland and are fitted with screwed lugs.

www.goswatches.com

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luxurious magazine motoring


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Lighter, Stronger, and more Refined

The world’s rst SUV with a lightweight all-aluminium body, the new Range Rover takes the capabilities of the marque’s agship to a new level, with even greater luxury and renement, enhanced performance and handling on all terrains, and signicant advances in sustainability.

of colours, finishes and special details, from the immacu-lately trimmed colour-themed interiors of the exclusive Autobiography series, to the stylish range of alloy wheels up to 22 inches in diameter.

Most refined, most capable Range Rover everThe all-new Range Rover has been engineered from the ground up to be the most refined, most capable Range Rover ever. With the adoption of the latest body and chas-sis technologies, the vehicle’s all-terrain performance has moved on to another level, both in the breadth and accessi-bility of its off-road capability, and its on-road handling and refinement.

Amongst the industry-leading innovations is a ground-breaking next-generation version of Land Rover’s Terrain Response® system, which analyses the current driving conditions and automatically selects the most suitable vehicle settings.

An all-new state-of-the-art lightweight suspension architec-ture delivers class-leading wheel travel, providing excep-tional wheel articulation and composure to deal with the toughest conditions.

The all-new Range Rover has a clean and elegant shape which is derived from a fresh new interpretation of Range Rover design cues. While instantly recognisable as a Range Rover, the new vehicle takes a significant step forward with a bold evolution of the model’s iconic design language. At just under 5m long, the new Range Rover has a very similar footprint to the outgoing model, but with a smoothersmoother and more streamline profile – the most aerody-namic Range Rover ever.

The luxurious interior has a modern and pure character, incorporating distinctive Range Rover design cues, but with a fresh and very contemporary treatment. The cabin retains the characteristic strong, architectural forms, and these are emphasised by extremely clean and elegant surfaces which are flawlessly executed using the finest leathers and veneers.With over 118mm more legroom, the rearrear compartment offers vastly more space and comfort, with the option of the desirable new two-seat Executive Class seating package for the ultimate in rear-seat luxury.

To enable customers to create their perfect bespoke vehicle, the unique luxury ambience of the new Range Rover can be extensively tailored with an indulgent choice

motoring luxurious magazine


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Outstanding traction and dynamic stability is provided by the proven Range Rover full-time intelligent 4WD system, with a two-speed transfer box, working in parallel with the sophisticated electronic traction control systems.

TheThe new Range Rover’s unmatched breadth of capability is also reflected in its tremendously strong structure with enhanced body geometry for all-terrain conditions, wading depth which has improved by 200mm to 900mm, and its position as the best towing vehicle in its class with a 3,500kg trailer capability. To ensure exceptional durability and reliability, the new Range Rover has been subjected to LandLand Rover’s punishing on- and off-road test and develop-ment regime, with a fleet of development vehicles covering countless thousands of miles over 18 months of arduous tests in over 20 countries with extremes of climate and road surfaces.

Refined and effortless driving experienceThe All-New model has been engineered to meet the high-est luxury car standards for refinement.

With its highly acclaimed line-up of torque-rich engines, the new Range Rover delivers swift and effortless performance. Customers have a choice of a petrol 510PS LR-V8 Supercharged and two diesel (3.0-litre 258PS TDV6 and 4.4-litre 339PS SDV8) engines, all of which are now paired

with a smooth and responsive eight-speed automatic trans-mission. True to the Range Rover DNA, the new model features the unique Command Driving Position, placing the driver in an elevated, upright seating position – typically over 90mm higher than other premium SUVs – to provide a supreme sense of confidence and control.

Lightweight construction enhances performance and sustainabilityThe all-new Range Rover features a revolutionary all-aluminium monocoque body structure which is 39 per cent lighter than the steel body in the outgoing model.

CContinuing Jaguar Land Rover’s leadership in aerospace-inspired, high-performance lightweight structures, the all-aluminium body enables the new vehicle to significantly enhance both performance and efficiency. Combined with weight savings throughout the chassis and driveline, the lightweight structure contributes to a model-for-model weight saving of up to 350kg compared to the outgoing vehicle. The weight saving helps the 510PS LR-V8 Supercharged model to accelerate from 0—60mph in just 5.1 seconds, a reduction of 0.8 seconds over the outgoing model. At the same time, fuel consumption is cut by 9 per cent.

The lighter structure has also made it possible to introduce the sophisticated 3.0-litre TDV6 engine into the model line. With performance just as strong as the previous 4.4-litre TDV8 Range Rover, the smaller engine takes the total weight saving up to 420kg, and delivers a dramatic 22 per cent reduction in fuel consumption and CO2 emissions, achieving figures of 37.7mpg (7.5 lit/100km) and 196g/km.The196g/km.The new Range Rover’s environmental creden-tials will be further enhanced by the introduction of a state-of-the-art high-efficiency diesel hybrid model later in 2013 (target CO2 169g/km)

The all-new Range Rover has been engineered with the latest developments in vehicle technologies, from interior luxury features to advanced chassis and driver assistance technologies.

TheThe interior is packed with a full suite of premium features to provide both front and rear seat passengers with the same peerless luxury experience. Their well-being is assured by the latest interior technologies for comfort, con-venience and seamless connectivity.

Pricing in the UK starts from £71,295 for the Range Rover Vogue 3.0L TDV6 rising to £98,395 for the Range Rover Autobiography 5.0L Supercharged. Order books are now officially open with the first months of production expected to fill up immediately.

luxurious magazine karkloof spa

Dreaming of Africa is what probably most of our fellow trav-elers on board Emirates Airlines 777-300ER did before we landed in Durban. We were looking forward to discover some of South Africa’s finest hotels and resorts, including the Karkloof Spa, an all inclusive wellness and wildlife retreat near Pietermaritzburg in KwaZulu-Natal. We arrived early August after a relaxing eight-hour flight under a blue SouthSouth African sky with spring like temperatures. Customs was a quick and friendly formality and within less then twenty minutes our khaki uniformed driver welcomed us at the gate with a big, bright smile. We hopped into a Land Cruiser, where our driver offered us a couple of cold towels, a cool drink and then quickly stored our Rimowa luggage. He told us that we should arrive at the outskirts of the KKarkloof Spa resort after about an hour. We witnessed how our surroundings turned slowly from the bustle of Durban, to the calmer outskirts of the city, then country roads and through wilderness, until we came to the entrance of para-dise, defined by a stream and marked with a large wooden arch reading “Welcome to Karkloof Spa”.


Later on we would remember that riding through that stream signified entering this African dreamland and leav-ing the stressful world behind. Karkloof Spa, named after the scenic valley, which is located in the KwaZulu-Natal Midlands, can be described as a luxurious eco - organic spa retreat within 3500 hectares of private land, with all the sights and sounds of an authentic African wildlife reserve. HeHere in private surroundings at the ‘central lodge’ we were welcomed with grand smiles and a couple of delicious organic fruit drinks.

by Edmund Buehrmann & Thorsten Buehrmann of Seven Stars and Stripes

Karkloof Spa, South Africa

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karkloof spa luxurious magazine

TheThe central lodge sparkled with old world colonial charm, original artwork, natural rock walls, randomly placed deep plush couches, stunning crystal & dark metal chandeliers and panorama windows. Artists from the local community had been commissioned to produce their creations for the lodge, mostly utilizing elements found on the property. At check-in it was explained to us that all that was needed in andand about the lodge would be taken care of with just one signature. It’s true, the price of a one-night stay includes unlimited spa treatments, or spa packages (The Spa is open for extended hours, upon request) and houseguests may choose from a variety of activities, such as guided game drives, bush walks, a 105 meter waterfall and histori-cal excursions.

We were guided into our accommodations, which was one of sixteen villas that have been individually designed for the most discerning guests, each exuding the feel of exotic elegance. The villas are connected through wooden walk-ways with the central lodge, dining and bar areas as well as with the spa. The walkways have a leisurely feel and wind through natural gardens while crossing over small mean-dering streams. Electric vehicles provide additional trans-portation to and from the central lodge for those who prefer.

The villas are beautiful, with high vaulted wooden hut ceil-ings, while the furniture, decorations and fabrics artfully interpret the colors of the land. The bathrooms are elegant and spacious and expertly designed with heated towel racks, as well as heated floors. As a matter of fact the entire resort is equipped with a cutting edge floor heating system, adding especially during the cold season cozy warmth from thethe ground up. The bath amenities are organic and were developed for Karkloof, to support their unwavering com-mitment to the environment with their formulations man-dated to be ‘freely and rapidly biodegradable with no part of it that had ever been tested on animals’. One that we may especially recommend contains organic orange and frank-incense oil, which proposes highly effective regenerativand soothing properties.

The villas have large covered terraces with beautiful mahogany lounge furniture, enticing one to relax here with a fresh organic fruit juice or a glass of fine South African wine and quietly absorb the views and sounds of this unique location. The photos that one will take right here are what African vacation dreams are made of. It is evident that no expenses have been spared and the hands-on owner FrFred Wörner is the soul of Karkloof Spa.

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Mr. Wörner has without a doubt exquisite taste and it is his attention to detail what makes this place perfect. We espe-cially liked the fact that as a guest, you may request a con-sultation with the Chef de Cuisine to discuss your personal dietary needs and have your meals at whatever time you desire. Every night at turn-town, a crystal carafe filled with an irresistible sherry was placed on the table as nightcap. By the way, the only beverage not included, is French Champagne. The food at breakfast, lunch or dinner was beautifully presented on elegant white china (Steelite 'Organics' and 'Monaco') and prepared with mostly organic ingredients, grown in Karkloof Spa's pesticide-free veg-etable and fruit gardens.

Karkloof Spa's organic gardens were developed by Ms. Esther Nkosi, a lovely lady who taught herself all about formal organic gardening. The vegetables and most of the fruits in season are harvested about an hour before they are prepped and their taste is divine. Breakfast alone, served on the terrace of the main lodge overlooking one of the watering holes, was an unforgettable experience every momorning. From presentation to taste to the smallest detail like the wild organic honey drawn from neighbor’s bees, to the locally grown Avocados, to over easy free-range happy chicken eggs and still warm house-baked goods – this natural morning feast was setting the tone for a healthy day surrounded by nature.

The Karkloof Spa is simply sublime and is said to be the largest destination safari spa in Africa. It is an eco-friendly and organic destination spa within a unique wildlife sanctu-ary featuring views that will take your breath away. For example, the glass front manicure and pedicure lounge is a startling delight for viewing the most amazing wildlife, ever changing and always exciting. Giraffes, Zebras, WWildebeasts, Buffalos, Black and White Rhinos, just to mention a few, roam freely on the property. The resort, including the spa building, which is set aside from the main building and the private villas is protected overall by secu-rity surveillance and is under a limited fly zone with altitude restrictions which makes it typically suited for celebrities, diplomats and other high-visibility guests.

Promoting organic and natural products in almost aspect, Karkloof Spa conveys a clear message, that it is not disturbing the indigenous forests; rather it is an integral part of it. All the buildings are covered with ‘thatch & living roof’ material, inviting all kinds of animals, like warthogs and nyalas to come and play, entertainment for all who came to get away. All of the treatments that we experienced at KaKarkloof Spa were prepared with natural ingredients, like organic yogurt, cream, honey, fruits, spices and vegetables. The natural aromas that are drifting from the treatment rooms are divine.

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HeHere at Karkloof Spa fresh coconut is combined with Avocado oil from the neighboring Avocado farm. This gentle exfoliation leaves ones skin vital and visually revived. Karkloof Spa also offers several Thai inspired ninety-minute massages of which some include Thai and Chinese herbs, essential oils and stretching techniques. The Thai Poultice Massage has been in practice since the 14th century. This isis a unique massage-therapy in which a selection of Thai and Chinese herbs, warmed in a muslin poultice, is worked into the skin through reflexology strokes. The level of service presented at Karkloof Spa is genuine and the spa personnel highly skilled. It is evident that the people who are employed here are proud of their work, their amazing spa and their team.

Mr. Wörner supports the local communities with a classical African philosophy or worldview “in the spirit of Ubuntu” by using products that are harvested from the surrounding Midlands, including his own organic gardens. The products that are used on the property are all biodegradable and environmentally friendly and the excess waters from the resort, including pools and floating salt pools are recycled ththrough a natural process. The round floating Dead Sea salt indoor pool treatment is a deeply relaxing experience. While one is floating comfortably and almost immersed in the temperate warm waters with essential minerals replen-ishing the body, the ‘sky’ lights up slowly with endless little sparkling stars lifting the already weightless drift into a time-less dimension.

Another treatment one should not miss is the sixty minute ‘Thai Melon and Honey Facial’ with ingredients that are said to have been used for this facial ritual for centuries. All raw and organic ingredients are used for this treatment like cucumbers (cooling and hydrating properties), yoghurt (gentle exfoliation), melon (detoxifying and high in vitamin C) and honey (highly nourishing and hydrating compo-nents)nents). Every step of the facial ritual as presented by my therapist was so flawless that the process itself was beauti-fully disguised. Additionally, we feel it imperative to experi-ence the forty-five minute ‘Coconut Body Polish’. Coconut is known to be an important ingredient in the world of spas.

karkloof spa luxurious magazineI



'Of Global Distinction'2012

7 Stars & 6 StripesOverall - 'Lodge & Service'

www.karkloofspa.com

animals. “The essence behind this is that unbeknownst to many, as Buffalo carry certain diseases such as Foot-and-mouth, Corridor Disease and Tuberculosis (TB), all of which affect cattle – the knock on effect of this can be extremely hazardous. Karkloof Spa’s Buffalo’s are disease-free certified and the dedicated game and wilderness spe-cialists working on the property are extremely proud of their accomplishments to date.” Kenny, our safari guide was an experience himself. He rode that six-passenger game viewer like a stallion, with great skill while he freely shared his wealth of knowledge about all these exotic animals and birds and this unbelievable land they are roaming on. Of course, the game viewer was equipped with refreshments and all kinds of gadgets.

The Karkloof Spa resort is a true epitome of luxury accom-modations and world-class spa-ing in an environmentally sensitive African wellness & wildlife retreat, giving you the feeling that it is a fantasy, a dream of ethereal magnitude bordering on the unreal. Our dining experience at this incredible place was an exceptional one as well, complete with the total sensory perceptions of exotic sights, sounds andand flavors all rolled into one. The level of service presented at Karkloof Spa was genuine and the spa personal proved to be highly skilled. It is evident that the people who are working here are proud of their work, their amazing spa and their team. Congratulations to a world-class team!

TheThe fact that Karkloof Spa’s magnificent property is so pro-fusely inhabited by Africa’s finest, means there is no need for an early wake-up call… adventure when you are ready, the game rangers and our four legged friends are on standby to suit your schedule.” Yes, we were ready! Ready to explore every single one of these 3500 hectares of incredibly diverse and infinite land. We had heard that KKarkloof Spa offers their guests the most distinctly unique safari experiences and we readily agreed after the first fifteen minutes on the game viewer with ‘Kenny’.

There wasn’t a moment where we didn’t click our camera buttons profusely or forgot the click, because we were so excited. It was hard to believe that the Karkloof Spa resort is located only thirty minutes by car from Pietermaritzburg by watching the abundance of wildlife here in its own wild habitation. We had a close encounter with a Rhino family, as well as Hippos, Giraffes, Zebras, Wildebeests and a lalarge number of Antelopes, Warthogs and all sorts of Monkeys, while most times the adrenaline was pumping. This was not a ride through a petting zoo; this is the real thing. However the sanctuary is free from lion, allowing us to take the most fascinating close up photography.

Karkloof Spa is famous for an exceptional controlled breed-ing program for their disease-free African Buffalo herds in order to increase the population of these distinguished

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The Karkloof River rises in the range and drops down through thickly wooded forests creating many small waterfalls. The beautiful and dramatic Karkloof Falls, 105 metres high plunge over the cliff at Shafton Grange, known by the early settlers as “the most beau-tiful waterfall in the land”.

Award-winning jewellery designer, Andrew Geoghegan, has launched four stunning new cocktail rings, including a third addition to the incredible 'Chocolate Box' collection.

Satellite MarquisAAG's most popular right hand ring with a new cut. This ring is resplendent with a marquis Morganite and framed with diamonds. The cut of the Morganite is echoed in the satel-lite diamond. An incredible dynamic piece.

Fission Cluster SpinelThe Fission Cluster ring has been hugely successful for AG and has graced many fingers in the form of brilliant, ass-cher and radiant cuts. The Oval was next on the list and Andrew sourced a stunning lilac Spinel for the occasion. Framed with diamonds and set in 18ct white gold, the beau-tiful result has inspired Andrew to create two more versions in princess and cushion cut.

In Pursuit of the Perfect Piece

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Andrew Geoghegan Andrew Geoghegan

Meticulously designed to perfection this beautiful jewellery is regarded amongst the best in the UK.

UsingUsing only platinum and 18ct golds, exquisite diamonds and sumptious precious stones, the AG brand encapsu-lates luxury, elegance and sophistication in timeless designs. Reaching finalist for 'Designer of the Year' 2005 and 2007 alongside the Platinum Innovation award helped to firmly secure Andrew Geoghegan as a tour de force in UK jewellery design and manufacture.

Creating and innovating exquisitely designed and exceptionally crafted jewellery in pursuit of the ‘perfect’ piece.

The Chocolate Box EnvyThisThis piece really does show how unique and perfectly made the AG collection is. The first Chocolate Box with a clash of colours has been Highly Commended by Claire Adler in the IJL 2012 Edit Awards. The Gems in the piece are all differ-ent shades of Green Tourmaline with a delightful framing of diamonds. The Chocolate Box Rose with rubellites and pink sapphire was launched in August and AG believes this design will be design will be recognised as a design classic.

Reflect PeridotAndAndrew Geoghegan's aim was to create a ring in which the stone is set slightly lower than conventional rings and in this way one must 'look into' the setting. By creating this 'space' or 'hollow' in which light is reflected from diamond to zircon there is a feeling of peering into a box of treasures! The name 'Reflect' is perfect for two reason; as already alluded to, the internal diamonds are reflected in the main stone and,and, the term reflect can be attributed to the occasion for which the ring is bought for - reflecting on a memory. One of the intriguing aspects of the piece is the wizardry of stone setting; creating an internal surface of diamond setting above the main stone is no easy task however the effect is unique and exquisite.

www.andrewgeoghegan.com

jewellery luxurious magazine


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Electrolux, I hear you say? YYes, I was surprised at the sound of an electrical goods company most famous for vacuum cleaners in the UK to be hosting such a fine dining experience. This successful con-struction previously appeared in Brussels and Milan and is currently in Stockholm, so of course, I was hugely intrigued to discover more. As I sampled a creamy sweet horseradish ice-cream canapé compactly wedged in between two mini cubecube shaped wafers, I was happy to be educated on the fact that almost half of Europe’s Michelin-starred restau-rants feature Electrolux Professional kitchen equipment. Now that’s very impressive indeed. I was also amazed at the innovation brought to the proverbial kitchen table by Electrolux Professional, especially its use and advocacy of induction

heating. I’m a big fan of gas cooking but I was soon con-verted to this gentle, energy efficient process, as I sat down to enjoy a fantastic menu put on for the 16 of us (the table seats 18 people max) by none other than double Michelin starred chef Sat Bains – www.restaurantsatbains.com.

We also got to watch the team cook in the open plan kitchen and speak to Sat Bains himself, who was friendly, down to earth and highly unassuming.

Chef Bains and his team indulged us with a lavish six-course menu using locally sourced ingredients, each accompanied by carefully selected wines.

We started with Loch Duart salmon with miso, passion fruit and oyster flavours, followed by salt baked celeriac done three ways with a truffle juice. Next, my favourite – slow cooked melt-in-your-mouth mutton with shallots and then a pleasant twist of Banbury cake with Beauvale blue –a spe-cial cheese that went down well with the well matched Smith Woodhouse 10 year old tawny port. A dense choco-late dessert with yoghurt and coffee played the sweet pen-ultimate course, which was followed by a fruity cereal milk and pickled berries. I was especially impressed with the exceptional pairing choice of an Argentinian white wine to enliven the salmon starter – Bodega Tapiz Famatina Valley 2011 Torrontes.

If you are not hosted by Sat Bains, then you will be equally

lucky to experience the culinary skill of either Claude Bosi, Daniel Clifford or winners of ‘Ramsay’s Best Restaurant 2010’ and Michelin star holders, Jonray and Peter Sanchez-Iglesias, or Scotland’s Michelin star chef, Tom Kitchin. It probably won’t be much of a surprise that Electrolux supports all of these chefs daily in their own restaurants. It would be a slight injustice not to mention the incincredible panoramic view you get to see up on the rooftop terrace, which spans right across from the Houses of Parliament to the Shard and beyond. Beautiful.

Visits to The Cube by Electrolux are priced at £175 per person for lunch and £215 for dinner Monday to Sunday. To book a table and find out more visit www.electrolux.co.uk/Cube/London.

Reena Patel

Designed to complete Maserati’s open-top range, the new Maserati GranCabrio MC blends high perfor-mance and sports characteristics derived from racing experience with the style, charm and practicality of Maserati’s four seater convertible InspiInspired and encouraged by the consid-erable success of the GranTurismo MC Stradale, which was warmly received by customers thanks to a masterly transla-tion and adaptation of racing character-istics for use on the road, the new GranCabrio MC has a highly sporty and aggressive look, while maintaining the strengths and characteristics of a true grand tourer, ideal for long journeys. The car, 48 millimetres longer than the GranCabrio and GranCabrio Sport, is characterised by a front end which is inspired directly by the MC Stradale, adopting a profile designed to optimise the aerodynamic lift and flow. These differ from those on other versions of thethe GranCabrio due to the increased car length and other aerodynamic elements at the rear end. The rear is characterised by the large spoiler, for greater negative lift at high speeds. Inside the spoiler, built into the luggage compartment, is the third brake light. The standard version comes in the same colour as the body and, within the various car customisation packages, it is also is also available with a carbon finish.

luxurious magazine heirlooms

Interview by Paul Godbold

HEIRLOOMSHeirlooms, Fine Linen Manufacturers to His Royal Highness the Prince of Wales have been manufacturing some of the world's most prestigious bed, table and bathroom linens since 1984. The timeless elegance of their designs, unparalleled quality of the fabrics and uncompromising attention to detail, has all combined to establish their reputation. We talk to Ruth Douglas about what plans the compawhat plans the company has over the next few months.

Your company is showcasing 20 new additions to its linen range at this year’s Monaco Yacht Show. What can you tell us about them, and what makes these addi-tions different and / or special?

RD: We will be showcasing more new innovative designs than we have ever done for an exhibition.

Our creative team has spent the last 9 months researching the colour combinations and trends and, along with feed-back from clients and designers; they have created an excit-ing selection of bed and table linen designs that suit all tastes.

Our skilled machinists have also been eager to demon-strate their skills and know how and have themselves created some of our most exciting designs. So the whole company has had a free hand to be creative and they have loved every minute of it.

Our new range has something for everyone, from ultra modern to feminine lace features, ruffled borders and strik-ing new embroidery designs, there will be plenty to choose from. The ranges have also been created in such a way that the colours can be tailored to the clients' own requirements giving complete flexibility to coordinate with the overall decor.

We don’t manufacture anything as standard


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heirlooms luxurious magazine

PG: You also describe your new linens as ‘innovative’ – in what way(s) are they innovative?

RD: What puts British manufacturing ahead of its competicompetitors is not only the design innovation but its ability to produce good-quality products that are made to stand the test of time. Quality is still one of the key reasons that people buy British and offer a level of reassurance that can’t be offered elsewhere.

WWe are constantly looking at new manufacturing and embroidery techniques and pushing the boundaries of pos-sibility. Our embroidery machines were custom-made for us, which gives us the flexibility to be very creative in our designs. We have taken elements of some of our most popular finishing styles and fabrics and combined them together to create strikingly different new designs.

PG: Do Heirlooms have any other plans for celebrating its 10th year at the Monaco Yacht Show?

RDRD: We are celebrating our 10th year at Monaco with a larger stand space, a wonderful new stand design, a wider range of exciting new linen designs and a nicely stocked fridge for our visitors. The colour scheme for the main bed display reflects our Royal connections and our manufactur-ing base of British craftsmanship. We look forward to visi-tors coming to see for themselves how we have combined these two elements - it's been challenging but fun!

PG: Heirlooms is known for producing luxurious linens – including being the only UK linen manufacturer to supply both Her Majesty the Queen and His Royal Highness the Prince of Wales. What is your company’s secret?

RD: There is certainly not any one secret that sets us apart, but a combination of factors. Using only the very best fabrics our linens are manufactured by our highly skilled team in England, which ensures that we have full control over every aspect of the creation process, from concept stage to the final finished product. The dedication and skill of our staff is in going that extra mile for our clients and ensuensuring that our products are made to perfection definitely sets us apart from others. We have a "can do" attitude to every customer need and are very passionate about our products.

PG: What future plans, products or achievements can we expect to see from Heirlooms? RD: We are continuing to develop the Heirlooms brand name and in doing so will be enhancing our profile within our core markets of Superyachts and residential high end interior design.

WWe also have plans to expand our presence into new mar-kets such as Asia and Russia, where clients not only value the quality of our linens but also our Royal endorsement, knowing that their linens have been manufactured with care and attention to detail truly fit for a Queen.

Are you noticing any particular trends (in products and/or markets) in the linen industry, relating to superyachts?

RD:RD: I think standards are continually rising, as are client expectations. Mediocre is less and less acceptable, which is where Heirlooms wins hands down because we have always insisted on making products which are nothing less than perfect, inside and out, whilst offering best value for money and long life expectancy.

BeingBeing the manufacturer really helps us to control the quality and to react to the ever increasing demands of the market. In terms of design this really is down to the tastes of the owner so there is no overall trend as such as we have such a diverse client base. This is why we created our new bed and table linens with a mixture of styles. As well as being creative we also fully understand the pressures for charter vesselsvessels to have stunning linens that are durable and easy to care for so this has been incorporated into our creative process.

What are you looking forward to at the Monaco Yacht Show?

RD: I think visitors will be really impressed with what Heirlooms have to offer and will take reassurance in that we are very much part of the Superyacht industry, offering the very best, in both product and service, to our clients. It will be a very exciting show for us.


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The Beau Brummell

On the watch, 347 Ideal-Cut diamonds weighing 5.15 carats are hand set into an elegant titanium case, as strong as steel yet half as light. The dial of diamonds, one row perfectly placed in blue surrounding diamond Roman numerals on a linear base.

Brummell and his Regent would approve.

Every era has its particular expression of elegance, from the Regency era Backes & Strauss reveal the very stylish Beau Brummell a Limited Edition from their Regent Collection.

BoBorn in London, England and the son of the Politician William Brummell, Beau was the product of a middle-class upbringing. His father wanted Beau to become a true English Gentleman, something that Beau understood. It was while studying at Eton that he first made his mark on English Fashion by adding a gold buckle to the cravat that distinguished a student of Eton.

AA close freind of the future King George IV, Beau Brummell was the arbiter of men's fashion, rejecting the flouncy and ornate clothing worn at the time for a more reserved style; perfect fitting, sharp tailoring and immaculate shirts with an elabo-rate knotted cravat. Credited as the person that introduced the moderns men's suit and tie, he himself, claimed that it took up to five hours each day to dress and recommended that boots be polished only with Champagne.

Beau Brummell not only had an enormous impact on world fashion, but he can truely make a claim to the two words 'Fine and Dandy'. Brummell died penniless and insane from syphilis at La Bon Sauveur Asylum on the outskirts of Caen in 1840. A statue of Beau Brummell (7 June 1778 – 30 March 1840) stands on Jermyn Street, the current London home of Backes & Strauss.

The Beau Brummell – Technical Information

Size: 40-47mm ØMovement: Mecanical movement with Automatic winding. Rotor with platinum segment.Display: Hours, minutes and central seconds. Date between 4 and 5 O’Clock.Case: Titanium with 2 rows of 140 Ideal-Cut Round Diamonds weighing 4.40 ctsCrown: One Ideal-Cut diamond “The Jewel in the Crown” weighing 0.09 caratsDial:Dial: 206 ldeal-Cut diamonds weighing 0.66 cts.

Limited Edition of 50 pieces

"Our collection is inspired by the Regency period of London and especially the architecture of John Nash. The Elegance, sophistication and shameless display of afuence is best represented by Beau Brummel, the original Dandy. The limited collection of Regent Beau Brummel celebrates the elegance of the period which still resonates in the current fashion for men."

- Mr - Mr Vartkess Knadjian. CEO of Backes & Strauss



luxurious magazine luxurious toys and gadgets

The Ultimate Toy Car

by Ian M Stevens

This new 2/3rd scale two seater V8 Roadster is the ultimate luxury ride in toy sports car for the discerning driver. Measuring 2.7m x 1.2m (9ft x 4ft), it features detailing that you would expect on a full size sports car.

This new 2/3rd scale two seater V8 Roadster is the ultimate luxury ride in toy sports car for the discerning driver. Measuring 2.7m x 1.2m (9ft x 4ft), it features detailing that you would expect on a full size sports car.

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A Very British Cottage IndustryStuart Pennington is an entrepreneur in the classic British mould with an eye on tradition and heritage but with his feet firmly on the ground. He lives and works in a chocolate box century cottage outside the university town of Cambridge. He was introduced to the advantages of self-employment when as a child he helped in his parents’ wedding car hire business in London.

StuaStuart has a real passion for motor cars and a formal edu-cation in automotive engineering to back it up. He has always been proactive and constructive and formerly had two businesses in rare sports cars and residential develop-ment and renovation. Highlights amongst the desirable properties Stuart has renovated and extended are a wind-mill on the Fens and his grade 2 thatched cottage, which also now serves as the head office.

His car business imported and refurbished cars such as Mercedes 190SLs, 1936 Daimler Type 15s, Dodge 26 Tourers, various kit cars and that Hollywood star and icon of British motor manufacture, the DeLorean.

Stuart now presides over a very British cottage industry designing and making luxury two seat children’s Toy

Sports Cars.


luxurious toys and gadgets luxurious magazine

The Roadster has a top speed of 8mph and does 0-8 mph / 0-12.8 kph in 3.5 seconds. It is supplied with a safety remote, shut down control with a range of approx 150m, for safe adult supervision.

His V8 Roadster features a two-tone leather interior hand-made by craftsmen who work on the leather interiors for cars as diverse as BMWs, Range Rovers, Bentleys, Porsche and Ferraris. The car bodies are manufactured in a boatyard that has a wide range of experience, including the renovation and fitting of Dutch barges and narrowboats. Electric motors and safety mechanisms are supplied by a BBritish, world kart racing champion.

The V8 Roadster grew out of a desire to create a safe, fun toy car for his two nieces. Stuart’s first attempt in 2006 was a DeLorean inspired replica less than 1m long. Unfortunately, both his nieces outgrew the toy car before it was finished. The second attempt was a 1930s Ford Model A with a hotrod body. This had a petrol engine and proved a little intimidating for children. His third attempt was a light-wweight electric car which was much more user-friendly and easy to operate for children. This model evolved into the V8 Roadster currently in production in both standard and bespoke versions.

The Roadster has this month received its first attention in the global luxury press, alongside the likes of Rolls Royce, Bentley and Mercedes. Stuart enjoys his cottage industry business model and says he has no plans to challenge any of the greats……yet. Plans are already in hand for the next model in the range of this small, but perfectly formed, marque.

FFurther information can be obtained by contacting Bespoke Impact at www.bespoke-impact.com


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such as the British Grand-Prix racing driver, Derek BellMBE,MBE, Frank Stephenson, the Styling Director for McLaren Automotive, and Dr Ulrich Bez, the CEO of Aston Martin Lagonda. A 1950 Ferrari 166 MM Barchetta entered by Dudley and Sally Masson-Styrron was crowned this year’s ‘Best of Show’ winner, the 16th of just 25 bodied by Carrozzeria Touring, and a model which boasts a fantastic racing history. As a works car, this example competed at the famousfamous Targo Florio and Mille Miglia events and more recently at the Monaco Historique, and the Goodwood Festival of Speed.

Salon Privé is billed as the UK’s most elite car show, bring-ing together some of the world’s finest supercars and best loved classics in a collection worth in excess of £100 million. The exclusive three-day event, which celebrated its seventh year last month, is set in the picturesque surround-ings of the 200-acre Syon Park in West London, which is still home to the Duke and Duchess of Northumberland, members of a family who have occupied the historic Syon House for the last four centuries. At the helm of Salon Privé is Andrew Bagley, a former distributor of skincare cosmetics, who has significantly raised its profile since 2006, acquiring in the process, spon-sorship from the likes of Pommery champagne, Audemars Piguet, and diamond jeweller, Boodles, who all help make Salon Privé one of the ultimate annual garden parties on the automotive social calendar, successfully rivalling the pprestige of the USA’s Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance and Italy’s Concorso d'Eleganza Villa d'Este. Running par-allel to the display of the some of the world’s most exquisite motorcars on the lawns of the Park is the Chubb Insurance Concours d’Elégance, made up of ten classes spanning from Vee-Twin motorbikes from the early 1900s through to classic Bugattis and Mercedes Gullwings.

The contest is judged on the final day of Salon Privé by a panel of 17 automotive connoisseurs and personalities

Unlocking The Secrets Ofluxurious magazine salon privé I

$1 Million Rimac Concept

Rimac was started in 2007 from the garage of the home of Founder, Mate Rimac, purely as a hobby. Following the demise of the engine of his old BMW E30 which he used in drifting and quarter mile competitions, he converted the model at the age of 18 to run on an electric motor beating other vehicles propelled by a regular combustion engine.

Only 88 examples of the sensational Rimac Concept_One will be produced and each will cost $1 million. The team behind the Rimac Concept_One includes designers who used to work for the fabled Italian styling house Pininfarina and top Bulgarian leatherworkers from Vilner, among others. The Concept_One’s performance is shattering with 0-60 mph in just 2.8 seconds. It also has the ability to reach a top speed of 190 mph and a range of 373 miles. The kerb weight is 1850 kg.


luxurious magazine salon privé

Amongst the glitz and the glamour, one couldn’t ignore the fact that this year’s Salon veritably highlighted the strength and importance and prevalence of the UK’s luxury car manufacturers on the world’s stage. Bentley showed off the new Continental GT Speed powered by a 6-litre, 48-valve, four-cam, twin turbocharged W12 engine, whilst Aston Martin brought an exciting line-up featuring the exclusive V1V12 Zagato as well as the £1.2 million One-77 hypercar. This was flanked by the hand-built 650 bhp M600 supercar, another fine piece of engineering emanating from the Leicestershire-based manufacturer, Noble.

However, one of the undisputed stars of the seventh edition of Salon Privé was the fully electric Concept_One hypercar from the Croatian manufacturer, Rimac Automobili. Revealed at last year’s Frankfurt Motor Show after being shrouded in secrecy, the Concept_One boasts a power output of 1088 bhp, and mind-blowing performance statis-tics: 0 to 60 mph in 2.8 seconds and a top speed of 190 mph (305 km/h)mph (305 km/h).

The story of Rimac Automobili is even more fascinating, bearing in mind, that Croatia has no history of automotive manufacturing or prominent vehicle expertise, and, like Apple, was started in 2007 from the garage of the home of Founder, Mate Rimac, purely as a hobby. Following the demise of the engine of his old BMW E30 which he used in drifting and quarter mile competitions, he converted the modelmodel at the age of 18 to run on an electric motor beating other vehicles propelled by a regular combustion engine thanks to its super speed. This generated significant inter-est from the Croatian press and potential investors who wished to create a business with Mate, at a time when it still remained a garage project. With the development of tech-nology sitting at the heart of the business, for the benefit of both Rimac and their customers, all of the car’s compo-nents including the lithium-ion phosphate battery, which offers a range of 372 miles (600 km) on a single charge, are manufactured in-house. No parts are purchased from exter-nal sources.

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salon privé luxurious magazine

Rimac Concept_One electric hyper car

MATE RIMAC


Rimac recognised the potential of the widespread attention in his invention, which lead to the foundation of Rimac Automobili in 2009 at a rented facility in Sveta Nedelja, located just 10 kilometres from the Croatian Capital, Zagreb, with one primary objective: to build the next gen-eration supercar with 1000 bhp, also from the ground-up, which has so far taken three years with another 12 months oror so to go. Interestingly, 2009 was also the same year that Tesla Motors was starting to makes waves with their Roadster two-seater electric sportscar model.

The Tesla brand evokes mixed feelings for Mate. On the one hand, this is a company he strongly admires, but on the other, it is a bit of a sore point, as inventor Nikola Tesla, from which Elon Musk took his company name, was born to Serbian parents in the village of Smiljan (now in Croatia), and therefore ‘Tesla’ would have been his first choice rather than using his own surname as a brand, had Rimac started esestablished his business merely a few years earlier. Amongst other sources of income including friends, to finance the foundation of his new venture, Mate sold his own patents for active mirror systems (the mirrors move as the car corners thereby removing the blind spot) following interest by car manufacturers. His family also worked in the field of construction building shopping malls, and therefore helpedhelped fund this ambitious vehicle project. Mate Rimac does not see his competitors as other electric car manufac-turers like Tesla who are focused on higher volumes, but instead, their benchmarks are the likes of other niche supercar manufacturers such as Koenigsegg and Pagani, pitching the Concept_One production model in a similar price range. However, the exact cost of each of the 88 units, which will be produced from 2013 at a rate of 10 to 15 units per year (at their one-month old facility in Croatia due to the origins of the majority of personnel working at Rimac),

will differ as every vehicle can be customised according to the client’s individual desires, spanning from the rims to the interior.

WWith no retail outlets due to the small quantities involved, vehicle sales will initially be focused on the European market, but early orders have already been taken from afar a field as Abu Dhabi when the car was even still on the drawing board. The first deliveries to customers are currently scheduled for 2014. Looking to the future, Rimac’s plan is to produce variants of the ‘Concept_One’ likely to be a a convertible, as well as a model which will carry ‘a more accessible’ price mirroring that of the Lamborghini Aventador (which retails for around £200,000). Nevertheless, despite this contagious optimism surround-ing the development of his vehicle and company, what is most astonishing is that Mate Rimac doesn’t share this same level of confidence when looking to the future of the electric car sector which would surprise many onlookers.

Firstly, he claims that Rimac Automobili is more of a high performance next generation company where his primary objective is not to produce an electric supercar, but a better supercar. Secondly, he is not a fan of the EV industry and views it as a bubble about to burst, and thirdly, he does not see electric propulsion superseding the combustion engine within the next 30 years like some estimations, but will insinstead be integrated within vehicles such as city cars. This is an interesting approach, but at the end of the day, Rimac’s first attempt is nothing short of stunning, so when the first road-going model does roll off the line, the atmo-sphere will certainly become more charged.

Salon Privé took place between 05 – 07 September, 2012: www.salonprivelondon.com. Interview of Mate Rimac, Founder of Rimac

Automobili, by Simon Wittenberg

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luxurious magazine jewellery

The Montblanc “Inniment Vôtre”Jewellery Collection

Montblanc has unveiled “Infiniment Vôtre”, the new women’s fine jewellery collection which draws inspiration from the most powerful and passionate of all emotions – love. Just as, throughout history, lovers have signed their declarations “forever yours”, Montblanc has signed this most heartfelt of collections, “Infiniment Vôtre”.

FFor this celebration of commitment, be it true romantic love or the everlasting bonds of friendship, there could be only one possible motif – the infinity symbol, whose gracefully intertwining curves have neither beginning nor end. The Montblanc Infiniment Vôtre collection interprets the infinity symbol in precious pink gold, whose soft, warm hue echoes the depth of the emotions evoked. On each piece, a brilliant diamond is set within a Montblanc star emblem, a discreet signature and sparkling reminder of the uniqueness of each special relationship.

SixSix exquisitely crafted pieces comprise the Montblanc Infiniment Vôtre collection: a ring, earrings, a necklace, a pendant, a bracelet and a bangle. Rich with meaning, yet pure and essential in design, each is a contemporary token of love or friendship, to be offered with feeling, worn every day, and treasured for always.

LiLike an embrace, the Montblanc Infiniment Vôtre ring entwines itself around the finger, while the earrings evoke sinuous curves against the neck. On the necklace and bracelet, the infinity symbol is strung on a delicate gold chain, which is adjustable and finished with a charm in the shape of the Montblanc star emblem. The pendant and bangle are bolder in style, each an uncompromis-ingly modern statement of commitment.


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jewellery luxurious magazine

Susie Otero, Managing Director of Montblanc JewelleryAt the heart of Montblanc’s jewellery is Susie Otero, a Spanish national, who has been responsible for the design and creation of all of the marque’s pieces sold across the globe since 2011 including the iconic Collection Princesse Grace de Monaco launched at the end of last year, and new additions to the 4810 Collection.

HerHer career history is fascinating, as Susie’s initial ambition was never to venture into the sphere of jewellery. At univer-sity, she read a double degree in law and economic science where she became familiar with the world of business. She only embarked on her journey in jewellery design, when two completely different domains collided by coincidence, thanks to being offered a position in the Haute Joallerie depadepartment during her internship as a lawyer at Cartier, the renowned French jeweller and watchmaker. Susie Otero quickly established an exemplary reputation and was appointed Managing Director for Cartier Joaillerie Internationale, whilst also becoming the very first female Managing Director at the Maison. The House of Boucheron was acquired by the former Gucci Group in 2000, and GucciGucci’s Domenico De Sole, and Tom Ford, Creative

Director, recognised Susie’s talents, and recruited her to restore the image of Boucheron House by bringing a greater degree of creativity to the brand. With a wealth of experience acquired through working at some of the fash-ion industry’s biggest names, Susie decided to establish her own Maison, communicating her savoir faire and per-sonal style, through the crafting of contemporary and timeless jewellery collections. Today, Susie Otero works within the dedicated atelier at the 500m2 Montblanc Boutique, located in the heart of Paris (France) at 7 Rue de la Paix. She is married with two children. www.montblanc.com


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luxurious magazine need for speed

The Need For Speed

Enhancements to the exterior and interior styling include sculptured colour-coded side panels, vents with gloss black

mouthpiece and new two-tone Overnch lettering across the bonnet and tailgate.

The recent London 2012 Olympics and Paralympics saw new records set by the fastest sportsmen and women in the world. In the spirit of the Games, Luxurious Magazine takes a look at some of the quickest luxury cars launched so far this year.

Overfinch Range Rover Sport GTS-X Making an appearance at Salon Privé alongside the Evoque GTS, the Sport GTS-X from Overfinch, the world’s leading authority in high performance derivatives of Range Rover models, is their most powerful Range Rover Sport to date.

DesignedDesigned in a unique copper orange to accentuate its sporting pedigree, the GTS-X, priced at £147,500, boasts a modified 575 bhp 5.0-litre supercharged V8 engine.

ThisThis allows the new model to sprint from 0 to 60 mph in just five seconds, 0.9 seconds faster than the standard Supercharged V8 Range Rover Sport, and to a top speed of 145 mph. The specification includes beautifully-crafted 22” Titan designed alloy wheels, and the high quality full nappa leather interior sees contrast copper orange stitch-ing across the cabin’s predominant features including the seatsseats (redesigned by Overfinch), headlining, boot door, door cards and pillars, as well as the carpet mats and dash-board.


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Lotus Exige S RoadsterUnveiled at the 2012 Geneva Motor Show back in March, this is the most rapid Lotus roadster ever made.

WWeighing in at just under 1100 kg, the softop version of this Lotus Exige variant features a supercharged 345 bhp 3.5-litre V6 engine capable of powering the car to 62 mph in 4 seconds and 100 mph is just 8.5 seconds. The Exige S Roadster comes with a six-speed manual gearbox, but will also be available with Lotus' Serial Precision Shift (SPS), a paddle-operated automated manual transmis-sionsion.

Two suspension configurations are available on demand: a standard setting for an active driving experience suited to public roads, as well as an optional setting as part of the Race Pack for maximum performance, and developed for track use. Prices and a production schedule are yet to be announced.

Ferrari F12 Berlinetta The F12 is the most rapid and powerful road-going model ever produced by the Prancing Horse, succeeding the outgoing 620 bhp 599 GTB. Designed by the Ferrari Styling Centre and Pininfarina, the F12 Berlinetta will sprint from 0 to 60 mph in only 3.1 seconds, and hit a top speed of over 211 mph thanks to its 730 bhp V12 engine which is based on that of the Enzo. The transmission is a seven-speed twin clutch DSG gearbox, first seen in the FF grand tourer. The new model goes on sale next year at £239,736, sitting the car price-wise between the 599 GTB (£212,096) and the 599 GTO (£299,950).

need for speed luxurious magazineI

Southampton Boat Show

By Simon Wittenberg

AWASH WITH LUXURY

Luxurious Magazine presents a round-up of the new model launches from some of the world’s most renowned luxury motor yacht manufacturers at the 2012 Southampton Boat Show in the UK.

Fairline Boats It hasn’t all been plain sailing (excuse the pun) for Fairline Boats.

TheThe company has significantly downsized in recent years due to challenging conditions, it was acquired in 2011 by Jon Moulton’s Better Capital and the Royal Bank of Scotland (RBS), but is now trading in-line with forecasts. Alistair Schofield, who joined last February as Chief Executive with a background in the automotive and aero-space engineering sectors, is fortunately benefiting from ststrong investor support for the development and growth of Fairline.

The latest round of spending will see the business expand their existing product range of eight boats to between 14 and 16 over the next three to four years. In addition, Fairline will invest significantly in their Northamptonshire production facilities in Corby and Oundle, diversifying from their current eight dedicated manufacturing lines to three mixed model assembly runs, thereby allowing for greater efefficiency, as well as the necessary flexibility to react to the evolution of the market.

The 2012 Southampton Boat Show saw Fairline present two new luxury yachts, the first being the Targa 62 GRAN TURISMO. This powerful sports cruiser is the largest Targa in the range and has been designed for the sun-worshipper, but equally for those wanting spacious and sociable enter-tainment areas. The 62GT has an open cockpit with plenti-ful seating, a teak table as standard, in addition to a luxuriously large sunpad.

boats luxurious magazine

Through the three panel aft doors is the main saloon, which is another beautifully furnished area with sofas surrounding a table that converts from a dining to coffee configuration, a sleek pop up TV, and a new-style helm station, complete with a plush two person bench seat.

AAdjacent to this is a fabulous lower galley with glass partition, a light and airy area which delivers plentiful storage, as well as space for two addi-tional appliances. Owners and guests are also well catered for thanks to a stunning full-width master cabin forward with an en-suite, plus two further guest cabins, which both convert to doudoubles.

On the outside, the Targa 62GT’s garage houses a Williams 325 jet tender and a hydraulic sub-mersible platform, a first for the Targa range. Optional extras include superior power drop saloon windows, a letterbox passarelle, highly specified chilled water air conditioning, and a pow-ered cockpit sunshade.

The other Fairline motor yacht making its UK debut was the Squadron 60, a vessel previously shown at the 2012 Cannes Yacht Show in the South of France. The Squadron 60 is the epitome of luxury, with decadent spaces, luxuriously appointed interiors and exceptional cruising abili-ties.

Fairline has evolved its Squadron range over the years, and this boat has been developed with an unparalleled attention to detail, where every inch of space is considered for the owner’s enjoyment. The huge flybridge offers an entertainment area with griddle, fridge, sink, and optional icemaker, along with floating seatbacks and a sunbed deck. ThisThis is complemented by a vast single-level saloon, and a well-equipped teak-laid galley, thereby promoting a truly ‘home from home’ luxury setting.

Below deck are three spacious cabins, including a full-beam master stateroom and a twin guest area which can be fitted with sliding berths to convert to a third double if required. Outside there is a hydraulic submersible platform with a swim ladder, as well as a neatly concealed swing-up transom shower.

InIn terms of the future line-up, Fairline revealed two new 48ft boats for launch next year, named the Targa 48 OPEN and Targa 48 GRAN TURISMO. This will be the first open boat that Fairline will have in its range, and 21 orders have already been taken, meaning that they are sold out for 2013. Both variants will be available with a two or ththree cabin layout, in addition to plentiful storage throughout.


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Pearl 75THE INTERIOR OF THE PEARL 75Pearl Motor Yachts

InIn a special collaboration with award-winning designers Kelly Hoppen MBE and the renowned yacht innovator, Bill Dixon, the 23-metre long Pearl 75 from the fastest growing boat builder in the UK, Pearl Motor Yachts, combines sump-tuous space with luxurious styling and outstanding levels of comfort.

Laden with a host of unique features, and priced from £2,844,000, the vessel is the largest of the Pearl fleet. The 75 offers its occupants four exceptional staterooms, an unusually spacious ‘lounge style’ saloon, as well as a unique open-plan galley and dining area which are flooded with light from the conservatory style glass roof. Kelly’s well-known design ethos of balance, and the sophisticated useuse of texture and trademark neutral colour scheme, is evident across the contemporary interior.

Externally, a garage and hydraulic bathing platform mean owners can carry a jet ski and tender without having to take up valuable flybridge space. The Pearl 75 also boasts the ZF series 4000 pod-drive propulsion system incorporating joystick control technology. This allows joystick manoeu-vrability and the option of operating the yacht without crew if required. Powered by twin MTU 1250 HPs engines, the vvessel is expected to navigate comfortably at a cruising speed of 25 knots and at a maximum pace of 30 knots.


Princess SupeSuperseding the highly acclaimed V-62 launched in 2008, the V62-S from Princess brings an astonishing list of speci-fication improvements and cosmetic enhancements to what was already an outstanding sports yacht. The aft cockpit has been increased in length to provide an even greater space in which to entertain or relax, boasting generous seating around a beautifully detailed teak dining table.

Princess V62-S

New hull glazing enhances both exterior styling and interior ambience with large windows now angled to complement the sleek and sporty profile. The lower saloon features a dining area for more formal entertaining serviced by the galley opposite which is equipped to cater for an extended stay on board. Owners and guests are equally well catered for in the three well appointed cabins where the en-suite owneowner’s area makes full use of the yacht’s generous full beam.

boats luxurious magazineI

SunseeSunseeker called on the services of two of its most high profile customers to officially inaugurate their new luxury yachts. British Formula 1 World Champion Jenson Button, who has a 28-metre (92 ft) vessel arriving in April 2013, and the BBC television pundit Eddie Jordan, a loyal client of the boat builder since 1985, were bestowed the honour of unveiling the Portofino 40 and Predator 80 models.

TheThe 40 ft Portofino 40, Sunseeker’s new entry level sports cruiser priced from £325,000, is the result of a long study of a highly competitive market sector. The end product, designed by John Braithwaite and his team, is an absolute

>> class leading all-rounder. The Portofino 40, which has a top speed of up to 34 knots, returns to the company’s roots, and boasts a typical Sunseeker hull; it has a 21 degree rise in the bow and is very much more beamy on the stern which gives the boat its volume.

KKen Freivokh, one of the world’s renowned interior design-ers of superychats and yachts who has previously worked for Sunseeker, has returned to style the stunning cabins of the Portofino 40, Predator 80, and has been brought on board for further projects.


Sunseeker


InIn plan, the Portofino 40 is a two cabin, four+one berth, with central saloon, galley, and twin access head and shower room. Beyond the exquisite owner stateroom forward, the real surprise is the headroom and huge hullside windows in the amidships cabin with its twin beds and third child's berth.

TheThe other Sunseeker model making its world debut at the Southampton Boat Show, was the Predator 80. Costing from £2,625,000, this vessel, which features carbon fibre components, presents customers with a wide range of options: with Arneson drives, the boat is a 46 knot flyer, or

>> with more modest shafts and a choice of engines, the Predator 80 is a nifty 30 to 40 knot distance cruiser. Within a performance hull, the interior layout will accommodate a guest party of eight in a four cabin arrangement, with crew quarters or a fifth guest suite in the stern. There is also a wide opening, single level saloon, and aft cockpit for seri-ous comfort and pleasure. Currently under construction at SunseeSunseeker’s shipyards in Poole, amongst other commis-sions, is their new 155ft yacht weighing in at just under 500 tonnes, a groundbreaking vessel set to be revealed at the London Boat Show in January 2014.

With thanks to Mr and Mrs Bund forpermission to use the photographs

luxurious magazine travel By Spencer Dodington

ShanghaiUp until about a decade ago, Shanghai was no one’s choice for luxury travel. Sure, "see China" they said: visit Beijing to sample some culture, then afterwards catch some shopping and fine dining in Hong Kong. Shanghai, if it was visited at all, was the domain of businesspeople. TheThe city of before, of pre-War, of pre-revolution, had been forgotten in a fit of global amnesia. What a mistake to take that attitude today…. Shanghai has been born again, bigger, better and with more bling than ever before.

The mystery unfolds through the follow-ing combination: China’s national ambi-tion to make money, coupled with the flexibility and hard work of some 25 million Chinese, who live in Shanghai. The city hosts a vast number of domes-tic and international firms who produce a rumoured 40% of China’s total tax take. So there should be no surprise that the people which have created this wealth have needed some pretty cool spots in which to enjoy their extra cash. Now, despite a continuing financial crisis overseas, and even with the popotential crippling spectacle of a pan-China manufacturing slowdown, Shanghai continues to build the finest in

hotels, restaurants and other high-end destinations. All feature the mix that makes Shanghai great: Chinese touches on a cosmopolitan nature that is the blood and heritage of the Shanghainese.

Get to KnowAAny visit to Shanghai demands a walk along its riverfront. This is the famed Bund, actually the original British Concession, started after the end of the first Anglo-Chinese Opium War. The Huangpu River rolls and bends, caus-ing the numerous barges and container vvessels to steer a gentle curve around Pudong Point.

The river has little care for the drama of its past or one wonders, the luxury of its present. Though some of the original Occidentals arriving in 1840s Shanghai may have dreamt of making their fortunes here, not one of them could have imagined just how amazing their nenew city would be some 170 years later. From offering practically no interna-tional up-market goods in the 1990s, today Shanghai is a dining and shop-ping paradise for all who visit.

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The Bund houses three other must-do destinations on your top-notch tour through the city. The first is the outrageously successful Mr. and Ms. Bund, a creation of traditional and inspirational French fine fare and wine. Just upstairs is Bar Rouge, the bar rumoured to have sold the most cham-pagne on the planet in 2006. Both are housed in Bund 18, one of the first old banking houses along the waterfront to bebe renovated. The red-on-white interior is a mix of smoothly textured Carrera marble, enhanced with red Murano glass fixtures. A new arrival at the Bund is the bistro Mercado, by the world-renowned chef Jean-George Vongerichten. What could be more comfortable – in a Starship Enterprise kind of way – than a warmly created rural Italian interior with the views of the lit-up Pudong waterfront directly in the fore-front? Wouldn’t the building’s original banker owners have enjoyed that traditional wood-burning pizza oven back in 1920!

Getting DeeperMoving past the Manhattan feel of the waterfront, the time has come to explore the city. Next to the Bund, the city’s most interesting neighbourhoods are all within the pre-WW2 French Concession. Started soon after the British won their right to do business in Shanghai the French were muscling in to do some business of their own. Much of what was built during the almost 100 years that the French ruled this district remains today.


>> And with the opening and success of numerous top-end hotels this fun is on offer for anyone to taste.

Begin your Shanghai holiday in one of these fantastic hotels. Perhaps it is the Japanese-inspired minimalist-yet-luxurious, interior design of the Park Hyatt. This hotel is celebrating its fourth-year anniversary this month. The highest hotel in mainland China, set atop Shanghai’s thrusting and tallest building, remains a unique temple to modernity. The best-trained staff members in town seamlessly guide you from spa to pool to enticing dining options. Back on the colonial-era bund lies a gilded art-deco re-mixed palace: the Peninsula. The sprawling property that even includes the old British Consulate is the first new building on the famous waterfront in 63 years, and it bleeds luxury from each of its individually designed public and private rooms. Many terraces at different levels give one the optionoption of being a part of the landscape, or standing above it all. At the other end of the Bund is another must-see, the Waldorf Astoria. Using their brand in Asia for the first time, the hotel could not have chosen a better location. The 1910 building was the home to the exclusive – only wealthy British Taipans need to apply for membership then – Shanghai Club. This historic property allows residents and dinediners to enjoy the best of this opulent past, while the new tower and restaurant section is the definition of modern comfort. However, these are just three of the 5-star hotel jewels awaiting you in China’s number one city.

travel luxurious magazineI

Any visit to Shanghai demands a walk along its riverfront. This is the famed Bund, actually the original British Concession, started after the end of the first Anglo-Chinese Opium War.

Thus hiring an expert to deliver you the parts you want to see is a requirement for those in the know.

LuxuLuxury Concierge China (www.luxuryconciergechina.com) provides anything you could need during your stay to make it a memo-rable and multi-faceted one. Their local knowledge is unparalleled, leaving you with the confidence to say you’ve truly been been to Shanghai.

Shanghai’s most interesting shopping here, especially if you prefer straying from the safety of internationally avail-able products. Further to the west is Ferguson Lane, home to Franck, one of the most-loved bistro-styled restaurants in the city. The streets around Ferguson LaneLane are still largely untouched and residential, giving an authentically romantic feel to your postprandial con-stitutional stroll. In a city as large as Shanghai there is no way of course to see everything.

This district, in the south-central section of the metropolis, is several square kilo-metres of tree lined streets of fine resi-dential architecture that was originally home to most of the influential pre-WW2 figures in China. Whereas these politicians, gangsters and literarfigures have long-ago left us, in their place is a new commercial Chinese culture.

The first of these new French Concession neighbourhoods is Xintiandi, an up-market creation of international talent and big finance, which was completed in 2001. Come to Xintiandi for a very comfortable take on old Shanghai: original residential build-ingsings refitted as top-end shops and mid-to-top-end restaurants. Its success has made it an urban development model for all of China, where shopping and dining used to mean huge, energy inef-ficient mega-malls.

One of the finest restaurants in Xintiandi is T8, which prides itself on offering the freshest takes on an inter-national melange of food choices. The pan-Asian interior is comforting as well as contemporary. For the purists there is the nearby Art Salon, a unique rrestaurant concept where two brothers – an artist and a chef – have teamed up to turn their modest former home into a place for art display and the best tradi-tional Shanghainese food in town.

A bit further up the road is el Efante, which stands out as the clear winner in the fusion category: deliciously melding the delicacies of France with the tapas traditions and regionally specific ingre-dients of Spain. Your experience will be boosted by dining in the beautiful tterrace of the 1930s mansion, and enjoying the top-notch service staff.

In the western part of the French Concession there are two other areas that should not be missed. The first is Tianzifang, an ever-growing bohemian village of shops and restaurants. Unlike Xintiandi with its larger restaurants and piazza-style spaces, Tianzifang has spsprung up organically amidst an un-renovated residential community. Thus rental prices are low enough to allow the really creative to try their hand at entrepreneurship. Expect to find


luxurious magazine travelI

Blue WhirlwindThe Grieb & Benzinger Skeletonized Tourbillon Minute Repeater


Take one very rare Patek Philippe Tourbillon movement, 15 months of hard work from the masters of skeletonised watchmaking to get all the 336 individual components treated. And the result is the 43mm Platinum cased Blue 43mm Platinum cased Blue Whirlwind a single unique piece with a price tag of $850,000 / €775,000.



watches luxurious magazine

Blue Whirlwind, the world’s rst watch poweredby a visible tourbillon movement by Patek Philippe

In hand-skeletonizing the base plate, the team at Grieb & Benzinger journeyed to the edge of what is possible and are proud to have created the world’s first visible skeleton-ized tourbillon based on a Patek Philippe movement. After the skeletonization and guilloché, the base plate was coated with blue platinum, a signature element of every single unique Grieb & Benzinger piece that was developed bby the team.

The skeletonized Sterling silver dial in striking regulator style was embellished with a rare Breguet frosted finish created using the classic method, which is only presently practiced in this manner at Grieb & Benzinger.

These numerous details once again show that the compli-cated masterpieces of Grieb & Benzinger are more objets d’art than watches. The artisanal crafts carried out by hand here cannot be copied in an industrial way and are thus only to be achieved by the talents of the masters at work at Grieb & Benzinger, who work with these long-forgotten techniques every day. Months, and sometimes even more thanthan a year, have been spent by the time a one-of-a-kind Grieb & Benzinger Platinum piece has been completed.

With the Blue Whirlwind skeletonized tourbillon minute repeater, Grieb & Benzinger has created another superb collector’s item that reinforces their special position within the watch industry.

A rare Patek Philippe tourbillon movement found its way to Grieb & Benzinger thanks to a single hardcore watch collector. More than fifteen months later the Caliber RTO 27 PS evolved into its final form. Unbeknownst to the team at Grieb & Benzinger this very same tourbillon movement had caused a sensation as it sold for 1.4 million euro within a one-of-a-kind Patek Philippe Tourbillon Minute Repeater in ststainless steel at the Only Watch charity auction in Monaco 2011.

This incredible auction result inspired Grieb & Benzinger to create a new wristwatch. The complicated work required the artisans’ full attention since the fine guilloché on the plates and bridges necessitated moving original drillings by less than one-twentieth of a millimeter, and the movement needed to be carefully reassembled, adjusted, disas-sembled, and reassembled in order to guarantee full har-monious functioning of the great number of levers. This movement with 336 individual components not only includes a tourbillon, but additionally a minute repeater mechanism – making it one of the most complicated move-ments in the world.

This movement was completely modified in the style char-acteristic of Grieb & Benzinger: fully skeletonized, guilloché and engraved by hand. Even gear wheels were embel-lished with guilloché and the 12 finely guilloché bridges and cocks coated with rhodium and rose gold. As if that were not enough, an additional mysterious wheel, visible on the back side, replaces the original gold drive wheel for the tourbillon.

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Bentley Barnato 42 Midnight CarbonA Black-Clad Sports ModelBarnato. The name of the most famous among the "Bentley Boys", the men engaged in a passionate pursuit of victories and accomplishments that included winning the Le Mans 24 Hours Race no less than five times between 1924 and 1930. Also the name of an exceptional chronograph com-bining superlative style with peerless performance. Breitling for Bentley now interprets this sporty model in a 1,000-piece1,000-piece limited edition entirely clothed in black – from the case made of a steel that is the color of night thanks to a highly resistant carbon-based treatment, through the dial to the supple and sturdy rubber strap.

The "instrument panel" appearance is reinforced by the chromed steel-rimmed counters, the red accents and a tachometric scale on the inner bezel. The generous size of the bezel heights the effect of the elegant raised knurled motif inspired by the famous Bentley radiator grilles. The large hour-markers and the oversized hands enhanced by a luminescent coating guarantee easy reading of the time in anany circumstances, even in the heat of action. This ardent and sophisticated sports model is powered by a selfwinding chronograph movement chronometer-certified by the COSC (Swiss Official Chronometer Testing Institute) – the ultimate token of precision and reliability. Bentley Barnato 42 Midnight Carbon: the stuff of a champion.


A 1,000-piece limitededition entirely clothed

in black

luxurious magazine karkloof spa restaurant


Karkloof Spa Restaurantby Edmund & Thorsten Buehrmann of Seven Stars and Stripes

It is a fantasy; a dream of ethereal magnitude bordering on the unreal. The main participant is me, in the middle of a world-class spa, situated in the heart of South Africa surrounded by game of every conceivable species while I am still able to enjoy a bottle of very special South African Pinotage, watching the sun melt into the savanna. The bizarre sights and sounds of the South African veld are laid outout in front of me as if performing a millennium-old dance on demand; all the while I contemplate my next spa treat-ment and tasting menu later in the evening. In fact, all what I have described is real and actually accessible at Karkloof Spa, Pietermaritzburg, RSA to anyone with a lust for life and romance in their heart. Few other places on the planet offer more diverse experiences coupled with the service and cuisine of a world-class player.

The entire menu concept is supported by an on-premises organic garden capable of supplying the kitchen with the mise en place of locally grown seasonal vegetables daily. To add to this, other items on the menu include dry-aged

locally culled buffalo as well as trout from the Midlands of KwaZulu Natal nearby. It seems that Karkloof Spa is riding the wave of health conscious popularity by committing itself to offering a lifestyle of inspired culinary wellness, body-work and adventure all combined into one. Some people will look at it as a chance for a transformation, while others will see it as a reinforcement of changes already made. It is eeven possible to explore the benefits of a raw food diet, which is provided for those who see weight loss, improved energy and digestion, strengthening of the immune system and relief of allergies as their personal goal in life.

The whole dining experience is conceived, planned, orchestrated and executed by South African Executive Chefs Christine Burgess and Brett Hackney. Both Executive Chefs come from educated professional backgrounds and have brought together their combined culinary knowledge, kitchen skills and practical experience in a leadership role to produce the extraordinary results of exceptional cuisine in the midst of the Southin the midst of the South African subtropics.

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karkloof spa restaurant luxurious magazineI

Our dining experience at this incredible ‘Wellness & Wildlife Retreat’ was an exceptional one, complete with the total sensory perceptions of exotic sights, sounds and flavors all rolled into one. Indigenous game abounds and it is quite common to be having breakfast while a heard of Buffalo or the occasional Rhinoceros wander by. Dinner is also remarkable in that you can experience world-class cuisine, finefine wine pairings and focused, unobtrusive service while planning your next spa treatment or game viewing. The menu presented to us by Executive Chefs Christine and Brett was extensive, innovative and nutritious. Portions were ample, with plate presentation a particular delight and service was delivered at a pleasant pace with knowledge-able personnel headed up by headwaiter Sipho Mambo.

The tasting menu being quite extensive warrants mention-ing some notable appetizers in particular, such as Spiced Slow Roasted Crisp Duck Leg, apple & hazelnut salad, with honey & soy dressing as well as Buffalo Carpaccio, spiced pineapple chutney, parmesan shavings, capers, rocket & hazelnuts. The meat on the duck leg literally ‘fell off the bone’ and upon tasting it the full flavor of the Chinese five-spice mixture permeated my palate. The buffalo carpaccio is chiefly special in that it is local wild buffalo that has had its meat cured overnight in a brine mixture of salt, sugar, juniper berries, cloves, pepper, lemon and orange zest and then hung up in the cooler for two weeks, thus producing it unique flavor and texture.

For a main course we sampled a very special Slow Roasted Cutlet of Organic Lamb, seasoned with toasted cumin, and accompanied by courgette, vine tomato, currant & almond couscous, braised shallots, onion cream & crisp onion rings with rosemary jus. There was also a delightfully prepared Filet of Lightly Smoked Drakensberg Trout, with olive crushed potatoes, sautéed courgette ribbons, and tomatomato & onion seed chutney. Both entrées showed creativ-ity, expertise with food combinations and resourcefulness in utilizing local ingredients wherever possible. Wellbeing is always on the minds of Executive Chefs Christine and Brett and together with their kitchen team they have also devel-oped menu items as part of a ‘raw vegan diet’, never heating the vegetables above 47degrees C, so that the natural enzymes, microorganisms and bacteria are not destroyed.

This will work to enhance the immune system, improve gut flora to aid in proper digestion and neutralize free radicals

to reduce the risk of serious illness. Utilizing freshly har-vested and locally grown organic vegetables for their creations, the chefs have added Mock Vegetable Linguini, with air-dried tomato and olives, rocket and pine nut pesto, all of it being raw.

If there is a need for additional dietary requirements such as gluten-free or food allergy alerts, the chefs are only too eager to meet with you one-on-one to discuss the issues personally. Dessert is another exceptional discovery for us when we sampled Lindt Couverture Chocolate Tart, a devil-ishly dense moist and chewy chocolate cake topped with a large dollop of passion fruit sorbetto. The raw food dessert optionoption was called Pavé, which consisted of thinly sliced sections of apple arranged in alternating layers with chopped pecans, as if a sort of ‘raw’ Napoleon that had been marinated in a mixture of lemon juice, mint and locally sourced honey.

Being in South Africa for the first time meant sampling some of its finest wines from the Stellenbosch, Franschhoek and Paarl regions near Capetown. Karkloof Spa prides itself on offering an extensive list of fine South African wines with suggestive pairings for each menu item. Pierre Jourdan Tranquille, Franschhoek, RSA, a blend of pinot noir and chardonnay naturally took on a somewhat topaztopaz color and showed good structure while exhibiting balance and freshness as an easy to drink summer bever-age.

We savored a bottle of Hartenberg Cabernet Sauvignon, 2006 Stellenbosch, RSA, winner of several medals of inter-national distinction, and found it to suggest forestberries and Italian plums in a full-bodied structure – perfect accom-paniment for the Slow Roasted Cutlet of Organic Lamb as previously described. Next was a Bordeaux-style blend called Veenwouden Classic 2003, Paarl, RSA implied chocolate covered espresso beans with a hint of St Germain Alpen elderflowers in a silky smooth finish which complimented the Buffalo carpaccio.

Finally our sampling took us to a very fine dessert wine named Vin de Constance, Klein Costantia RSA, from the area around False Bay, Cape Town showed us why this terrificstyle wine was prized by kings, emperors and literary greats. Using Muscat de Frontignan grapes to create a complex wine of pure unadulterated pleasure revealing an undercurrent of white stone fruits, citrus and apricot wrwrapped in a gentle minerality to produce a long finish. A perfect ending to a perfect culinary experience at Karkloof Spa, in the midst of an enigmatic, transcendent environ-ment of peace, tranquility and renewal

5 Stars & 5 StripesOverall - 'Cuisine & Service'

www.karkloofspa.com


ART FOCUS

Ko-Ze

I art focus luxurious magazine

Marijan Zajec ‘Ko-Ze’Each of Ko-Ze's sculptures is unique one-of-a-kind works; his daliance with death has caused him to rethink his priori-ties which in turn has led to his decision to give a proportion of the income from future sales of his works to charitable organisations.

PG: Tell us about your background and how you became a sculptor

MZ: I was interested in art ever since early childhood.I made my first sculpture when I was ten years old. My par-ents told me to be bring it to the school of art where they told me that I didn’t make it myself which disappointed me very much.They told me that my parents made it or some-one else older than me. I went home crying and said to myself I will never make another sculpture again. Destiny decided after 33 years when I suffered an traumatic experi-ence in which I barely stayed alive I decided to return to my first love, making sculptures. One of my dreams is to sell my sculptures so I can feed the people of Somalia at least for a day even if I have to make a thousand sculptures per day.

Reborn


"I consider that the current state of world sculpture is one big playground and I think that some important values have been lost. I want to change that."

MaMarijan Zajec, more commonly known to the art world as Ko-Ze is a Croatian based sculptoral artist and the subject matter of this editions 'art focus'. Marijan's passion for art and developed before he even reached his teenage years, while working within the brick industry he discovered fasci-nation for clay and its potential artistic use. However, the twists and turns of life prevented him from realising his ambitionambition of becoming a professional artist until a few years ago. After a life-threatening illness, he decided that he would pursue his love of art full time that has subsequently led to being exhibited in Vienna earlier this year. Following this exhibition, he has received invitations to exhibit his work in London, New York and Miami.

Luxury is an thing of beauty, creativity of an individual, of the creator who enriches the spirit, on the contrary of other opinions. Futhermore, for me the essence of luxury is spritualistic which are accessible for everyone and not only reserved for certain individuals. MaMany people would like to enjoy luxury, but they think it is impossible.

It is an problem of the mental state of an inividual who believes it is impossible. There is no such thing as impossible if the human desires it, the human mind can achieve everything. I think there is enough potential in the world that all people could enjoy luxury and spiritual enrienrichment.

Marijan Zajec, ‘Ko-Ze’

PG: How do you decide upon your subject matters?

MZMZ: More often than not, the themes I use for my sculptures are life, love and death. The thing that motivates me the most is the torment of mankind which I feel at every step I take. Throughout the worldwide media, there is mostly bad and negative news with some exceptions of course like Luxurious Magazine! It's like 'Ignore the good news as this doesn't sell'. Someone is going to say, "why do my sculp-tutures bear the spirit of luxury?"

I want the glow of my sculptures to point out everything disastrous that is happening throughout the world (Danger from nuclear disaster - I think that nuclear energy is too old and dangerous and I feel that there are other forms of energy that are much less harmful for the environment and more powerful. On the other side, I am constantly occupied by the thought of creation of life, religion and the endless question of "wquestion of "why are we here?" and "where are we going?"

PG: How would you describe your style?

MZ: My style is the result of my everlasting wish to transfer my emotions directly into the materials I use. I want my sculpture to transfer the same emotions I felt during its creation to the other person. The surges of most of my sculptures are reservoirs of emotional energy. That is why I consider that when another person is observing my sculp-ture, he/she cannot stay indifferent.

>>>> I also must say that I don't idolise any particular sculptor, not because there were no great sculptors over the past and present, it is because I feel that I don't need to copy others. I approach each of my sculptures as an inde-pendent unit. I must say that I am my biggest and harshest critic but also my biggest fan! I also must add that I want to tutor on the subject of "abstract sculpture" and also gain a docdoctorate in the subject of "How masterpieces are made." For me, art is when the skill and the idea are on the same level. My college - the Art House College of Visual Art in Ljubjana is a big supporter of my work, and they have allowed me to develop my talent on my own terms. I would recommend this college everyone who wants to educate themselves in art.

PG: What materials do you work with and do you have a preferred material?

MZ: Considering that my themes are everlasting I utilise everlasting materials like stainless steel, granite, brass, aluminium and bronze. My most prefered material to use is bronze.

PGPG: During your time as a professional sculptor you have created many pieces of art, is there one piece that you prize above all others?

MZ: My personal favourite sculpture is "Reborn" because it symbolizes my career.


art focus luxurious magazineI

PG: You exhibited this year at "The Spirit of Art" in Vienna, how was this experience for you?

MZ:MZ: The reception for my sculptures overwhelmed me, not just from the eyes of other artists but also through the eyes of the spectators. They greatly appreciated the quality, the skill and everything else that went into the making of the sculptures. I told myself "Marijan you are on the right track. This is it."

PG: Tell us about the Art scene in Croatia

MZMZ: The modern-day art scene around the world, for me, is a huge playground with exceptions of course. Croatia is a small nation, and we are keen to follow global trends, thus the art scene in Croatia became a big copy house. Like in the rest of the world the meaning of aboriginal art is lost here in Croatia as well. The making of aboriginal art is my primary focus.

PGPG: Thank you for your time Marijan, I always enjoy finding new and exciting artistic talent. Before we 'wrap up' Is there anything that you would like to add?

MZKMZK: My Dear Paul there is a saying in Croatia which I like a lot that goes "Man slumbers, God decides" in other words everything is a matter of destiny. If something, is meant to be then I will fulfill my dreams, if not at least I am doing something which inspires me and makes me happy. Now I am making preparations to cover my twenty new sculptures in bronze; I will let you know when everything is finished. I amam also considering an auction of my work in some of the more prestigious auction houses where the proceeds from the sales would lean towards charity by the most part.

If you would like to find out more about my work, email me at [email protected] or type Marijan Zajec Ko-ze in Youtube.com to watch videos of my sculptures.

ERMANNO SCERVINO’S

BOHO-CHIC WOMAN

Ermanno Scervino

A BOLD YET HARMONIOUS PLAY OF COLOURS AND MATERIALS FROM DISTANT LANDS

Ermanno Scervino combines luxury tailoring with a bohemian edge, taking inspiration from all over the world.

CColours and materials come together in unusual ways, creating a harmonious encounter between Mediterranean and Atlantic inspirations.

AA meld of macramé embroideries, floral designs and arabesques; lace weaves finish off dresses, tops and jackets delivering sensual transparencies.

StStrong, warm shades – duckbill, violet, yellow, coral and fuchsia – inject colour in the silk tops which are laced at the neck, in the mohair sweaters backed with mesh, and in the shorts, long low-waisted skirts, and the mini-dresses made of silk, leather and suede.

White and black map out geometrical motifs in the transparent nets, the patchworks, and the peplums at the waistlines of the sleeveless mini-dresses.

luxurious magazine watches


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Eminently literary and utterly romantic... These days, the pocket watch invites the modern man to embrace its legend: its refined shape, the sense of a continuing mystery on which all eyes come to rest as it appears out of the silk lining of a jacket or from the depths of a waistcoat...

TheThe pocket watch is a watchmaking myth that has endured through the centuries. Jaquet Droz is now bringing this poetic icon back to center stage. First of all, in order to gain greater recognition: that of a Manufacture, which, in 1785 conceived a pocket watch which would span the ages and would be the inspiring muse for the flagship model – the Grande Seconde. And also to pay homage to Pierre Jaquet-DJaquet-Droz, genius and driving force behind a creative spirit that will transcend the centuries and give life to a pocket watch from which The Pocket WatchIvory Enamel naturally adopts the codes. This beautiful timepiece exem-plifies a return to origins and has been designed to link the past with the future.

Embracing time by weaving links between the incredible treasures emerging in each period in history and between the richness of tradition and the elegance of the modern age: this is the nature of the new Pocket Watch Ivory Enamel by Jaquet Droz – an ambition orchestrated by out-standing expertise and the finest craftsmanship, with its ivory dial in Grand Feu enamel, its yellow gold case whose casecase back is covered by the brand secret signature: the cloverleaf, its delicately applied counters and its unique Guilloché decoration.

Hand engraved with the original Jaquet Droz signature and the individual number,

The Jaquet Droz Pocket Watch Ivory Enamel, with its manual movement and 40 hour power reserve, pays tribute to a philosophy that has remained unchanged since the Age of Enlightenment.

Following on from the successful launch of the Ladies’ Slimline Collection, Frederique Constant presents the lim-ited edition gentlemen’s Slimline Tourbillon Manufacture. With an appearance that is at once classical and time-less, while at the same time fresh and modern, this new model perfectly illustrates all that is good, all that is excit-ing, and all that is unique about Frederique Constant timepiece

Frederique Constant Slimline Tourbillon Manufacture

BothBoth models feature a 60-second tourbillon, in which the seconds hand is actually an integral part of the rotating tourbillon cage. One complete rotation of the dial takes place each minute, putting both elegant beauty and incred-ible technology on display at the same time and in the same place. An elegant watch needs a strap befitting the time-piece it surrounds. The Slimline Tourbillon Manufacture models each come with an alligator leather strap with a folding buckle, allowing the watch to sit easily and comfort-ably on your wrist.

Frederique Constant has always believed that truly excep-tional hand-made watches of the quality on offer in the Slimline Tourbillon Manufacture range don’t have to come at an outrageous price


Individually numbered, only 188 of each Slimline Tourbillon Manufacture model will be available to the public. Each will be presented in a beautiful wooden gift box, and features a technologically advanced manufacture movement that is unique to Frederique Constant, the silicium escapement wheel and lever.

TheThe silicium movement has added greater durability, unri-valled accuracy of timekeeping, and reduced service requirements to models that were already among the most technologically advanced in the world. With a fast 28,800 beats per hour, each watch in the Slimline Tourbillon Manufacture range will not only keep time better than ever thought possible in a mechanical watch, it will also provide a 48-hour pa 48-hour power reserve.

Clean lines give the slim stainless steel case an even more sophisticated, 50’s-style appearance. The thickness of the watch’s body incredibly measures less than a single centi-metre, and the beautiful, understated raw materials lend a quiet elegance, even an unspoken self-assurance to this timepiece, much like the men who wear them.

Two models in the Slimline Tourbillon Manufacture range are offered; one with a polished all-stainless steel case and the other with a shining stainless steel main body accentu-ated with a stunning 18-karat solid rose gold bezel. The back of the case is covered with see-through sapphire crys-tal, allowing owners the opportunity to see firsthand the finely decorated calibre with it’s rose gold plated rotor. The rich silver, curved dial features beautiful, rose gold-plated indices, all hand applied in-house by Frederique Constant’s skilled craftsmen and women. The dial also boasts a day-night indicator, and finally, there’s a fine view of the tourbil-lon cage at the 6 o’clock position


luxurious magazine mawi 10th anniversary


This year luxury jewellery brand MAWI is celebrating their 10th Anniversary. Founded in 2002 by husband and wife Tim Awan and Mawi Keivom in London, the brand continues to be a major player on the international fashion scene, gathering a cult following, celebrity clientele and numerous collaborations. In celebration of this milesmilestone, MAWI will reflect on the decade in which the brand evolved from a keen interest in collecting and customising vintage trinkets, to one of the world’s leading costume jewellery design houses with an archive of over 20 luxury collections.

Born in Manipur, Northeast India, Mawi’s life has spanned many continents and cultures. As the daughter of a diplomat, she spent the major-ity of her childhood travelling the world, an influ-ence clearly manifested in her eclectic designs. Hailing from a creative family, Mawi was des-tined to excel in the arts and an early exposure to sewing, knitting, and crochet was a key influ-ence on her appreciation of craftsmanship – a quality that remains at the core of the MAWI brand.

Tim and Mawi’s continually growing repertoire of over a thousand trinkets made for ample mate-rial for inspiration, experimentation and cust-omisation and launching the MAWI brand in 2002 was a natural progression.

Following its initial success, MAWI made its debut at London Fashion Week in 2003 with a collection of jewellery and handbags. The luxu-rious, contemporary designs caught the atten-tion of the British Fashion Council who awarded the brand the New Generation Award for three consecutive seasons; her designs were immediately snapped up by prestigious stores such as Selfridges, Barneys, Liberty and Browns. As a result of its seasonal transformation and abil-ity to capture a signature aesthetic requests for the brand poured in, not only from stockists but also from stylists and editors worldwide.

In the following years, the demand for MAWI grew throughout the international fashion circuit and the brand has since been a regular exhibi-tor at London, Milan and Paris fashion weeks.

CLOCKWISEPUNK RAJA R / N 03 ATeardrop crystal and tube necklace

DYNASTY R / RING 03 CTeardrop crystal ring

PUNK RAPUNK RAJA R / N 09 AFemme fatale collar with crystals and spikes

Celebrates 10th Anniversary I

mawi 10th anniversary luxurious magazine


Mawi’s pioneering spirit and daring innovations are continually pushing the boundaries and her visionary eye has created a new language and means of expression within the luxury jewellery market. Over the years the brand has collaborated with some of the most iconiciconic brands, top fashion houses as well as some of the biggest players on the high street.

In autumn 2011 MAWI partnered with Disney to create a one- off collection, affectionately titled ‘Minnie Mawi’. The much sought after collection was stocked by concept stores, high-end and specialty boutiques, and depart-ment stores worldwide.

April 2011 marked a turning point for the brand with the opening of its first flag-ship boutique in London. Situated in Shoreditch alongside creative power-houses The Rochelle School, Frieze Art, Shoreditch House and a host of new creative talent as well as established names, the store reflects the brand’s loyalty to its East London creative roots and the signature juxta-position of traditional and contemporary aesthetics.

The MAWI headquarters is housed in a 300 year old stable in Dalston firmly settled in the neighbourhood which has nurtured and shaped the brand over the past 10 years. Surrounded by the creative hotspots of Dalston, Hoxton, and Shoreditch, the studio is filled with antiqueantiques, art and vintage objects that continue to be a source of inspiration for the brand.

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luxurious magazine mawi 10th anniversaryI

MAWI launches Men's Jewellery Line

ThisThis autumn sees the launch of Sir by Mawi from luxury jewellery brand Mawi. The brand’s main line collections for women having already garnered a cult following worldwide. An extension of the brand’s contemporary signature, this range combines traditional elements withwith a modern twist. Taking its inspira-tion from conventional men’s jewellery, it revives the time-honoured signet ring, ID bracelet and accessories such as tie and lapel pins into modern cult classics.

The collection is inspired by tough punk undertones and utilises the signature Mawi spikes and stud detailing with heavy linked chains to give it a rock ’n’ roll edge. The combination of luxury materials - onyx and hematite - result in an edgy, masculine aesthetic that is sleek and sleek and wearable.

Key pieces of this collection include a heavy metal reinvention of the ID brace-let, and a modern take on the heritage signet ring featuring spikes and gem detailing. Spiked tie pins, collar pins and onyx cufflinks add a modern touch to classic men’s tailoring.

Sir by Mawi will be available exclusively at Lane Crawford from September 2012.

www.mawi.co.uk


SIR / BCLT 04Honeycomb bracelet

SIR / RING 04Panther head ring

SIR / CF 01Onyx signet cufflinks with spikes

SIR / N 01Necklace with spikes and crystals

SIR / BCLT 01I.D. bracelet with triple spikes

fashion luxurious magazineI

Nicholas Kirkwood chose the Aigles Room at the Hotel de Crillon to present the new spring summer collection Pollini by Nicholas Kirkwood.

PPollini keeps its heritage aesthetic with modern touches as the British designer draws inspiration from African printed textiles, basket weaving and Nigerian tribal masks. This season continues to play with scale and proportion, with further focus on subtle contrasts of color.

SignatuSignatures of the brand are prevalent in woven raffia facings, equestrian influenced brogues and boots, and wooden soles whilst simultaneously, Kirkwood expands these classic concepts through the introduction of clogs, platforms, mirror plexi and metal detailing.

AA lighter leather construction with hand stitched details and finished raw edges give the collection’s masculine styles a softer edge. Metallic leathers reminiscent of architectural mirrors and asymmetric flowing lines give off a feel of liquid metal. Color contrasts are incorporated into tassel details, zigzags, and matt textures standing out against two toned lacquered paint finishes, while chunky heels and fishnet laserlaser cut leather create a 90’s element. Each story is accompanied by a range of signature bags, in soft metallic leathers, fluoro color blocking, and woven canvases.


POLLINI BY NICHOLAS KIRKWOOD SPRING/SUMMER 2013

Art Deco was arguably the most glamorous and exciting design movement of the 20th century.LooseLoosely spanning the period 1920 to 1940, the name Art Deco was not applied until the 1960s, when the move-ment was aligned with the Paris Exhibition of 1925 or Exposition Internationale des Arts Décoratifs et Industriels Modernes. It’s a testament to itsits enduring appeal that many people with little interest in either art or design can identify an Art Deco inspired object or building today, even though they may not be clear what makes it so.

The movement was certainly sensa-tional. Refreshing, different and beauti-ful in its own right, its roots were embedded in early twentieth century avant-garde painting styles, then moved into a global design aesthetic embraced by disciplines such as architecture, automotive design, marketing, ceramics and furniture making. Art Deco embraced the cultural enthusi-asm of the moment, employing futuris-tic crystallised motifs referencing Greek classicism and recently discovered Egyptian relics mixed with the dynamic of the age of the machine and stream-lined automotive liberation.

Art Deco could be likened to light out of darkness, complementing an epoch characterised by the rapid development of technology and innovative use of new materials. Geometric shapes, recurring motifs and stylised images featured heavily across Art Deco design. SimpliciSimplicity in form, sweeping lines and streamlining gave the movement an appeal that shocked convention, but delighted high society to the soundtrack of Cole Porter’s Anything Goes.

But while the 1920s and 30s are held to embrace the Art Deco era, there was no definitive starting point, nor end. Art Deco influences were to be found well before this period and today Art Deco colours contemporary design.

Art Deco and Rolls-RoyceThe famous Rolls-Royce mascot ‘Spirit of Ecstasy’ is one example that might be described as a prequel to the move-ment.

Born in 1911, the graceful little Goddess has now adorned the prow of Rolls-Royce motor cars for more than a century. The influence of this genuine icon can be seen in famous Art Deco designs several decades later. Marcel Bouraine’s (1928) Papillion, a winged-figurine in translucent green glass created in the powered glass pâte-de-cristal technique, hints at the original Rolls-Royce design. The Spirit’s influ-ence can also be seen in the glassware of Rene Lalique, creator of 29 car mas-cots of the period, such as the Spirit the Wind in 1928. Also, his beautiful statuette Suzanne au Bain (1930), a nude revelling in fluttering draperies, a pose not dissimilar to that adopted by the muse said to have inspired the Spirit of Ecstasy’s designer Charles Sykes twenty years earlier. The Spirit of EcsEcstasy’s flowing lines pre-empted the Art Deco movement.

And the beautiful Phantom I, II and III models of the 1920s/1930s, wearingfine bespoke coachwork, certainly embody some of the high points in Rolls-Royce design of the last century.

AArt Deco inspired those with the cour-age and conviction not to merely follow. It introduced a sense of flow and dyna-mism. In the movement’s most opulent creations, Art Deco complemented the reputation Rolls-Royce had already established at the pinnacle of the burgeoning automotive sector, embracing the finest designs and revelling in the most glamorous of objects.

High Art Deco (as it was sometimes described) also embraced the sheer luxury of natural materials, the use of the exotic and experimental and celebrated the march of technology. The clean lines of aluminium – a material used to such success in bringing to life thethe original Rolls-Royce Silver Ghost - cool stainless steel and the luxurious feel of lacquer; all were to feature promi-nently in Art Deco design.

Rolls-Royce inspired by Art Deco art deco luxurious magazine


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luxurious magazine art decoI


Bespoke Rolls-Royce luxury for the 21st centuryThoughThough Rolls-Royce cars hold a time-less quality, the visual history of the marque illustrates that something can always be traced of the era in which the cars were designed. In creating a Rolls-Royce for the 21st Century, designers rose to the challenge of eexpressing the marque’s heritage and language of one of the most celebrated aesthetics in automotive history without straying into pastiche.

This balance was achieved by elegantly incorporating Rolls-Royce design and engineering tenets, that have stood for nearly a century, into a contemporary motor car that quickly established a pinnacle position in the modern auto-motive era. Features referencing the mamarque’s heritage such as the Pantheon grille adorned with Spirit of Ecstasy, wheels proportionally half the height of the car and interior furnished with classic detailing including eyeball vents operated by organ-stop controls, found their home in a thoroughly modemodern masterpiece.

The spirit of movements such as Art Deco can be seen in every modern Rolls-Royce. The evolutionary updates to the pinnacle Phantom Series II family are an elegant example. It is a car built in the context of the world we live in today that retains the true essence of whatwhat has gone before. Detailed interior touches in Phantom include quarter mirrors behind the c-pillar that reflect ambient light. Finished in green-frosted glass, these are reminiscent of the pâte-de-cristal pieces so prevalent in Art Deco glassware classics.

Today, echoes of Art Deco can be found in Ghost too. Its overarching design theme - the power of simplicity – reveals clean sweeping lines and pro-portions evoking the understated gran-deur of the period. The employment of only the finest materials and handcraftsmanship pays homage to the design and manufacturing excellence that typified the best of the Art Deco era. Cashmere and luxurious leather interiors give an air of sumptuous indul-gence. The form and section of hand-crafted, lacquered and highly polished wood veneers for example evoke the structure of fine furniture.

Rolls-Royce veneers are chosen for their richness, iridescence and com-plexity of grain, often enhanced by inlays adorned with silver or mother of pearl and cross banding, so reminiscent of fine cabinet making in the Art Deco era. In celebration of the Art Deco peperiod and the relevance of the Paris Exhibition to the movement, Rolls-Royce Motor Cars has created a series of highly bespoke Art Deco inspired Phantom and Ghost models which will debut at the Paris Motor Show 2012.

The Phantom Saloon, Phantom Drophead Coupé and Ghost models feature a suite of design detailing inspired by the period. The Phantom Saloon for example includes a black and arctic white interior featuring a stainless steel inlay in the telephone drdrawer, door cappings and in rear picnic table backs.

These feature a geometric pattern first used by Rolls-Royce in early 20th cen-tury motor show stand designs.



Vacheron Constantin Patrimony TraditionnelleSelf-WindingThis elegant timepiece enjoys a new 41 mm case

housing an ultra-thin Calibre 1120 and complies with the new Hallmark of GenevaTheThe new Patrimony Traditionnelle Self-Winding watch clearly belongs an authentic horological tradition. With its pure lines and beautifully balanced proportions, it boldly reveals its classically timeless character through details such as the slender bezel, the knurled motif on the screw-down case-back fitted with a sapphire crystal pane, 18-carat pink gold applied hour-markers, and elegant dauphine hands. This new timepiece matches the new Hallmark of Geneva requirements that are no longer confined exclu-sively to the movement, but also take the entire finished watch into account. This is a major evolution for a label that celebrated its 1125th anniversary last year and has chosen to respond more fully than ever to the true expectations of an even more informedclientele. The gold case frames an opaline silver-toned dial on which time undertakes its perpetually renewed journey.

The space is punctuated by 18-carat pink gold applied hour-markers, punctuated by a black minute circle, while the principle of sim-plicity also governs the circular dance of the hands, reflecting the elegance of traditional watchmaking through a refined interpretation and a timeless, eminently horological spirit.

At the heart of its case ticks the ultra-thin self-winding Calibre 1120 which has earned an excellent reputation. Developed and crafted in harmony with Geneva’s most rigorous Fine Watchmaking traditions, it beats at a frequency of 2.75 Hz (19,800 vibrations/hour) and is endowed with an approximately 40-hour power reserve. Both its finishing and its construction testify to a wealth of fine work-manship. Not only are the smooth surfaces of the movement adorned with a meticulously executed “Côtes de Genève” motif, but all their sharp angles are chamfered and then hand-polished. Such is also the case with the screheads.

In order to accommodate this shining example of mechanical genius in the style it deserves, Vacheron Constantin has designed the broad 18-carat pink gold case of its new Patrimony Traditionnelle Self Winding model in accordance with two rarely associated criteria. While the elegant slen-dederness of its profile proudly proclaims its lineage within the classic tradition, its 41 mm diameter lends it an undeniably contempo-rary dimension. The sapphire crystal case back enables one to admire the ultra-thin Caliber 1120. Setting the finishing touch, Vacheron Constantin has fitted its new Patrimony Traditionnelle Self Winding watch with a classic strap in chestnut brown alliga-tor Mississippiensis, complete with an 18-carat pink gold pin buckle.



ComplicationMoon Phase - Charm of the

A touch of glamour, a hint of Art Deco, a dose of cool composure: this timepiece has it all!

SSAINT HONORE has added a new design to its Orsay Lady line: the “Phase de Lune”. This is a beau-tiful women’s watch with a serious side and that “extra something” that cannot fail to charm and impress!

Chic and contemporary, its unique radiance comes from the iridescent shimmer of the mother-of-pearl in the centre of the dial and the lively sparkle of its twelve Arabic numerals, which illuminate the superb moon phase in the middle of the top half of the dial. The moon phase is shown on a delicately-wrought disc with a striking chiaroscuro effect.

InIn immaculate white or deep brown, the contrast between the colours and the materials of the dials unify the different features and create an overall impression of harmony, elegance and seduction.

TheThe watch design has been subtly altered and com-bined with a new metal bracelet, which has deli-cately arced links that echo the curves of the watch case while offering unrivalled comfort on the wrist. With its Moon Phase complication, Orsay Lady is tapping into the current trend to offer more compli-cated timepieces for women.

Technical Details:

Stainless steel case, 33 x 34 mm, crown with SAINT HONORE logo

White mother of pearl dial, with stainless steel Arabic Numerals apply

Metal strap on deploying buckle

Quartz movement “Moon Phase”

WWater resistant to 30 m

SWISS MADE

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Indulge yourself in the luxury of your own private island Scottish retreat

As regular readers of Luxurious Magazine will know, in our opinion, private islands are one of the first types of travel destination that everyone should have on their luxury travel wish list, and Eriska is no exception.

CCross over to the Island by its very own bridge into this small oasis where Highland cattle graze, badgers visit nearby and grey seals swim in the surrounding waters. Distant Islands form a stunning backdrop to Eriska's Golf Course and guests can enjoy a spotspot of sailing, shooting and many other activities during their stay.

About the IslandThe Isle of Eriska Nestles on the east-ern side of one of the world's most celebrated rift valleys, and born of the cataclysmic upheavals of more than 600 million years ago, the formation of the island is largely of schist and slate with the lower ground to the west as a rraised beach from the island. The partly submerged Crannog, or fortified dwell-ing, dating from the Bronze Age around 200 B.C and situated some 200 metres in the channel to the east of the bridge, marks the earliest recorded human history of the island.

The HotelTheThe Eriska Hotel, Spa and Golf offers luxurious 5 Star accommodation with a view to match. An incredible retreat where you can enjoy a traditional Scottish breakfast, while taking in 300 acres of lush landscapes all from the comfort of your own bed.

CCarefully blending the old with the new their designer rooms and luxury suites offer the finest bed linen, rich fabrics, and warm, contemporary décor. Staff to anticipate your every need with a wide range of in-room facilities and guest services. Guests can also relax and enjenjoy a quiet reprieve with their favou-rite tipple next to the fireplace in the Hotel Lounge.

Five Star RoomsAsAs with most historical propeties the bedrooms all vary in shapes and sizes but all have the same luxury you would expect from a world class 5 star hotel. In the main house there are two categories of bedrooms, deluxe - slightly larger and tending towards the front of the house and stan-dard which are a little smaller and located towards the East of the hotel. Beyond the main house in the surrounding gar-dens lie the luxury spa suites and two bedroom cottage suites. Offering more privacy and seclusion but not at the expense of service or style as they offer 24 hour room service and all other facilities. The rooms outside the main house also have a greater degree of space set in private gardens with their own hot tubs.

Eriska Hotel SpaAtAt Eriska Hotel Spa they aim to make each experience a personal journey from the moment you step through the entrance until the time you leave, feeling transformed, as you step back into the outside world. By combining some of the most effective natural ingredients with the latest scien-tific advances, they offer exceptional products and treat-ments by ESPA, designed to meet the demands of today's lifestyle.The hotel’s Spa is located on the first floor of the stable building.

(Double Deluxe Room)

(17m Heated indoor swimming pool with Jacuzzi)


luxurious magazine travelI

travel luxurious magazine


DiningTheThe multi-award winning hotel is well-known for its industry leading cuisine created by head chef Simon McKenzie. Since 1997 the Restaurant at Eriska has held the award of 3 AA Rosettes and a mark in the Good Food Guide. In March this year they were delighted to be awarded the "Hotel Restaurant of The Year” at the Scottish Restaurant Awards and in 2010 we won the "Taste of Scotland Award" at the Scoat the Scottish Thistle Awards.

The hotel dining room is the amalgamation of four areas, firstly the morning room with views over the lawns to the south, secondly the business room which catches the morning sun then the butler’s pantry which joins the two earlier rooms together and finally the conservatory which was added in 2002 with views under the boughs of the Oak planted the year the house was built.

The Head ChefThe Head ChefSimon McKenzie is known for his brilliance in creating inspiring menus and the finest cuisine using local and sea-sonal produce. With a career that has seen him working at other highly regarded establishments such as The Vineyard with John Campbell and Peter Eaton.

And also time spent working in the kitchen with Marco and Gordon [Ramsey]; it is hardly surprising that Simon's repu-tation of excellence precedes him.

In his first year at The Isle of Eriska, head chef Simon McKenzie has already received this prestigious award maintain the restaurants high status with the three rosettes awarded.

HeHe says: "My team and I are delighted to have received this prestigious award from the AA in my first year at Isle of Eriska, continuing the hotels lengthy success with the AA guide. Working at Eriska has opened my eyes to the fabu-lous local produce and the dedication and commitment of our suppliers who literally go that extra mile to ensure the very best of ingredients arrive through the door here, with-out which awards like this would not be possible."

The AA Rosette scheme recognises excellence within the restaurant industry, to receive this recognition is a huge achievement. It is estimated by the AA that across the UK, only 10% of restaurants are of a standard which is worthy of 1 rosette and above. To achieve a spectacular three rosettes, a chef needs to demonstrate the application of advanced techniques whilst retaining maximum flavour and assuming an appassuming an appropriate quality of source ingredients.

Owner of The Isle of Eriska, Beppo Buchanan said: "It is wonderful to have the Restaurant at Eriska recognised in the top 10% of the UK and Simon and his team's tireless pursuit to find the best local produce and suppliers has now been rewarded."

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Stealth WatchThe Panerai Tuttonero

With a Luminor 1950 case and the classic Panerai bracelet in ceramics, the Panerai Tuttonero Luminor 1950 3 Days GMT Automatic Ceramica – 44 mm (PAM00438) timepiece, which forms part of the Contemporary Collection, is made entirely of matt blablack ceramic.

This is a watch with extraordinary aes-thetic impact, which is faithful to the Panerai identity, and constructed using the most advanced technologies in the field of materials. Matt black is evident in every detail of the Tuttonero including the 44mm case, the lever device pro-tecting the winding crown which makes every Luminor unmistakable, as well as the dial which is of sandwich construc-tion.

Like the numerals and hour markers, the hands (hour, minute, small seconds and second time zone) are covered with ecru Super-LumiNova®, therefore ensuring excellent visibility and legibility even in the dark.

TheThe bracelet too is made entirely of matt black ceramic, the links being formed and finished by the same processes as the case and then attached to a PVD-coated brushed steel buckle. The design is the result of lengthy research aimed at achieving perfect integration withwith the ceramic case. Each individual link is asymmetrical and has curved surfaces which enhance the soft feel and effective performance of the brace-let.

The movement of the Tuttonero is the P.9001/B calibre, completely developed and made in the Officine Panerai manu-facture. It is an automatic mechanical movement with a power reserve of three days, date, second time zone, zero reset seconds hand and power rreserve indication on the movement, visible through the sapphire crystal on the back. The movement has under-gone a blackening process to give the watch a completely black appearance, as indicated by the engraved inscription “TUTTONERO” on the rear of the timepiece.


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SPECIFICATION HIGHLIGHTS:

Movement: Automatic mechanical, Panerai P.9001/B calibre, executed entirely by Panerai, 13¾ lignes, 7.9 mm thick, 29 jewels, Glucydur® balance, 28,800 alternations/hour. Incabloc® anti-shock device. Power reserve 3 days, two barrels. 229 com-ponentsponents

Functions: Hours, minutes, small seconds, date, second time zone, power reserve indicator on the back, seconds reset

Case: Diameter 44 mm, black ceramic

Bezel: Black ceramic

Back: See-through sapphire crystal

Dial: Black with luminous Arabic numerals and hour markers. Date at 3 o’clock, seconds at 9 o’clock

Crystal: Sapphire, foformed of corundum, 2.3 mm thick. Anti-reflective coating

Water-resistance: 10 bar (~100 metres)

Strap: PANERAI personalised ceramic bracelet. Steel buckle with a special hawith a special hard black coatingSupplied with a steel screwdriver

Reference: PAM00438

Price: £10,500

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The slender, graphic, ultra-feminine silhouettes of the Spring 2013 collection are calling women to order!

Yield nothing in terms of femininity; be bold, be playful – transcend the garment to make it into an accessory of the body!

Whether shoWhether short or long, geometry stands out with open skirts, fluidity is conveyed through soft, supple materials, and the body is revealed in cuts that emphasise the shoulders, the carriage of the head and endlessly long legs.

The collection spotlights an obvious intention The collection spotlights an obvious intention to work the garment on a body that is now modelled and sculpted, constantly expressing volume and movement. Dresses glide, sensual and conquering; flounces make a startling appearance; colours create a dazzling look with reflecting silver, sky blue and deep black… black…

Dresses are dotted with prints and embroider-ies that structure their form and delineate the central axis of balance. With cut-outs, trans-parencies and a mix of lengths, feminine daring equals elegance and no mistake!

Femininity takes a bold stance!

Basil SodaSpring 2013 Collection









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Never has a timepiece displayed such feedback and attachment to its owner.In a first for a wristwatch, Urwerk's UR-210 highlights and monitors the symbiotic relationship between man and his mechanical watch.

WWhile the UR-210 is characterized by its original Urwerk time display, of equal note – and with reason − is the UR-210’s personalized communication with its owner. If the UR-210 displays a cold chronometric precision in counting the hours, it plays the card of emotion when it echoed the tempo of your life: Ford,

“The“The UR-210 embodies the symbiotic relationship between man and his watch. This quasi-biologic ma-chine could reveal more about you than any other object in your possession,” explains Martin Frei.

The dial of the Urwerk UR-210 features a traditional power reserve indication at one o’clock. In a near mirror image at 11 o’clock we find a similar indication. No, it isn’t a duplicate fail-safe, but something much more important which deserves our full attention, because it is actually a world-first complication that indicates winding efficiency over the last two hours.

When you are comfortably nestled in your armchair, the indicator will be tending towards the red zone to tell you that your Urwerk UR-210 is not being wound enough by its auto-matic rotor and is running on stored energy. However, if you are moving around energetically, the indicator will point towards the green zone, a sign that you are replenishing your watch with new energy. This entirely new indication doesdoes not measure mainspring torque, but calculates the difference between the consumed and generated energy of the mainspring.

Armed with knowledge of both winding efficiency and avail-able power reserve, you are now able to intervene. If your Urwerk UR-210 indicates an insufficient supply of energy, you can position the winding efficiency selector (at the back of the watch) to “FULL”. The rotor will then convert the slight-est movement into stored energy. In this configuration, a turbine connected to the rotor provides smooth, unimpeded power. But if you are more active, then that may provide more power than required and unnecessarily wear the mechanism.



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In a rst for a wristwatch, Urwerk's UR-210 highlights and monitors the symbiotic relationship between man and his mechanical watch.



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MARTIN FREIChief designer

FELIX BAUMGARTNERMaster watchmaker

An air turbine compressor mounted on ruby bearings spins and creates internal resistance – enough friction to slow down or dampen the automatic winding rotor. In “STOP” mode, the automatic winding system is disabled completely and the Urwerk UR-210 runs off reserve power and may require manual winding.

BackBack to the dial side, the Urwerk UR-210’s satellite complication with retrograde minute is both highly original and totally explosive.

TheThe principal feature is a high-tech, oversized, three-dimensional retrograde minute hand. Its function is to enclose the hour satellite and indicate the time as it trans-verses the 0-to-60-minute scale. This one-hour journey through time, tracing an arc of 120°, is smooth and fluid. But the true nature of the piece is revealed at the end of the 59th minute. Then a sharp distinct “click” signals the return of the minute hand to its starting point. In less than 0.1 of a second the hand flies back to dock with the next hour satel-lite. This lightning fast retrograde system is based on three key elements:

• A central axis set in ruby bearings provides excellent stability for the satellite/retrograde complication. A cylindri-cal marine chronometer type spring runs vertically around the axis and generates the optimal tension required for the retrograde minutes flyback.

• A minute hand, which also forms a frame for the hour satellites, displays the time in an extraordinary way. Milled from aluminum to exacting tolerances of approximately 3 microns, the whole structure has a total weight of just 0.302g and is counter balanced by a brass weight. This three-dimensional cage offers rigidity as it transfers energy from the cylindrical flyback spring in the top center of the carcarrousel to the double-star gear underneath.

• A double coaxial star-shaped cam regulates the retro-grade mechanism through its gearing and its rotation defines the trajectory of the minute hand. When the minute hand reaches 60, the double star trips a (one of three) hockey-stick shaped spring under the mechanism, which liberates the minute to fly back to the next hour satellite at 0-minutes.



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Urwerk UR-210 Movement • Caliber: UR-7.10• Jewels: 51• Escapement: Swiss lever• Balance: Monometallic• Frequency: 28,800v/h, 4Hz• Balance sp• Balance spring: Flat• Power source: Single mainspring barrel• Power reserve: 39 hours• Winding system: Self-winding coupled to turbines•• Materials: Plate in ARCAP P40; 3D minute hand in alumi-num with brass counterweight; central cylindrical spiral in spring-steel; hour satellites in aluminium; central carrousel and screws in Titanium Grade 5.• Surface finishes: Circular graining, sandblasted, circular and straight satin-finished plate; satin-finished and diamond-polished satellites; beveled and polished screw heads.•• Indications: Patented revolving satellite complication with wandering hour and three-dimensional retrograde minute hand; power reserve indicator; winding efficiency indicator (patent pending). Super-LumiNova treatment on markers, dials, indexes, hands, and satellites

“In terms of the degree of evolution of the satellite carousel, I feel with the UR-210 that we have reached the pinnacle of what we can do with this complication.” explains Felix Baumgartner. “After the presentation of our über complicated UR-1001 Zeit Device, we wanted to experiment again on an impos-ing scale. The minute hand in the heart of the UR-210 isis not just big, it is massive! And yet it presented us with a considerable challenge because it requires ne, delicate workmanship. It envelops the hour sat-ellites and demands machining to extremely ne tolerances.”

Martin Frei adds: “More than any other URWERK piece, the UR-210 catches the attention. The eye is inevitably drawn to the winding efciency indica-tor… it’s almost a magnetic attraction. The UR-210 is not really a watch but rather a living mechanism grafted onto your wrist. We have nicknamed the UR-210 the Maltese Falcon because we see it as the stuff thstuff that dreams are made of .

Felix Baumgartner concludes: “The UR-210 repre-sents a serious accomplishment for URWERK. This timepiece opens a new chapter in the evolution of our complications. It doesn’t just measure a univer-sal value in a completely original way, but starts a real dialogue between the watch and its wearer. The UR-210 indicates your personal activity; this is yours and nobody else’s.”

Urwerk UR-210 Case • Material: Titanium and steel• Dimensions: Width 43.8mm, length 53.6mm, thickness 17.8mm• Glasses: Sapphire crystal• Water resistance: 30m/100’/3ATM• Surface finishes: Satin finish

Technical Specications

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Luxurious Magazine - Luxury Defined - 10/11/12