Geneva Cosmopolitan and yet quintessentially Swiss; Dive into the nation’s greatest small city, where the water is the mirror of the world.
WINTER 2023-2024
What is it that drives someone to greatness? To take on the unknown, venture into the unseen and dare all? This is the spirit that gave birth to TUDOR, a spirit carried forward by every woman and man who wears this watch. Without it, there is no story, no legend and no victory. This is the spirit that drives David Beckham every single day. This is the spirit embodied by every TUDOR Watch. Some are born to follow. Others are born to dare.
BLACK BAY
RUE DU MONT-BLANC 17 - 1201 GENÈVE WWW.MONTRE-GENEVE.CH
JENNIFER LAWRENCE
MINI
DOLCEVITA
LONGINES BOUTIQUE Place de la Fusterie 40, Rue du Rhône 40 • 1204 Genève
There is Verbier and there is Zermatt. Two Swiss icons in the heart of the mountains. An invitation to discover these destinations from an intimate angle, a celebration of wishes, the excitement of sports and endearing personalities.
living the high life helvet.swiss
Editorial This summer, as we descended from the mountains’ iconic ski stations, helvet put down roots in Geneva to explore a different way of Swiss living — a highly complementary approach, that’s both urban and more international than ever. Numerous partners and institutions extended a hand and an extremely warm welcome in this new venture that led us to consider, and eventually publish, this winter edition. Sharing a mutual passion for Switzerland’s image and role throughout the world, helvet and Geneva were truly made for one another. On the one hand, we have a city of vibrant character and rich heritage, a dynamic and radiant epicentre, the heartbeat of global affairs, a place where world-changing ideas are dreamt up and brought to life. On the other, we have a pluralistic and ambitious magazine, a perspective that is as often serious as it is fun-loving, with strong local roots and a desire to see Switzerland’s beauty, identity, and dreams take flight across the globe. We are always asked the same thing when people visit… does the Jet d’Eau freeze in the winter? No, and the “World’s Smallest Metropolis” doesn’t plunge into melancholy when the mercury drops either. While we may bundle up to face the winter chill, this beautiful lakeside retreat boasts a way of life that’s powered by high spirits and satisfaction yearround. As the summer crowds retreat, the city’s treasure trove of small pleasures, traditions, and moments of joy spring to life, stronger than ever. Around a dinner table (Michelin stars optional), a delightful brunch, an evening at the spa, or a moment to oneself beneath the stars, as the holiday lights twinkle in the background… that’s when the city comes alive, transformed and enchanting. Here we feel good, eat well, and live well — the city accommodates for all these things and more, in the bliss that is the Genevan way of life.
Christian Bugnon Publisher & Editor-in-chief
Contents
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40
70
Winter 2023-2024
Growth Opportunities
Chopard: a story of entrepreneurs and strong values
20
42
76
When the Bise winds come
WEF: an annual reunion
in Geneva
News
White Days in Geneva
Geneva Airport
From Geneva to the world
Sincere luxury
The 9 best brunches
that unites global leaders
28
80
Geneva, a feast for the senses
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In Olivier Jean’s two Michelin-starred kitchen
Happiness is just a soak away
32
55
News
Bentley Geneva Winter Tour 2024
A Genevan passion
Winter 2023-2024
A British classic takes to the mountains
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56
88
“The spot” for buying exceptional wines in Geneva
Guillaume Cottancin
Watches & Shopping
Chocolate
Baghera/wines
Rendez-vous at the spa
Portfolio
160 km of enormous undertaking The world’s hardest rowing competition is Genevan
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Trends
Editing, administration and advertising District Creative Lab sàrl I Place de la Palud 23, 1003 Lausanne – Suisse I info@district.swiss I district.swiss I Tél : +41 21 312 41 41 Editor-in-chief Christian Bugnon : christian@helvet.swiss Project Manager Anne-Laure Bugnon: annelaure@district.swiss Writers info@helvet.swiss | Daniel Bauchervez, Christian Bugnon, Olivier Dufour, Isabelle Guignet, Claude HervéBazin, Philippe D. Monnier, Yannick Nardin Photographers Guillaume Cottancin, Luca Fascini, Grégoire Gardette, Loris von Siebenthal, Stephan Torre — Genève Tourisme Design District Creative Lab — Samuel Galley English translation Karen Cooper Photo-offset printing Images3 Advertising info@district.swiss Copyright © 2023-2024 helvet magazine, Unauthorized duplication/copying of all or any part of this magazine is strictly prohibited without the express prior permission of the rightful owners. Cover Guillaume Cottancin | Next issue: Summer 2024 I as part of the same collection: helvet magazine Zermatt and Verbier, the book helvet Verbier | shop at helvet.swiss Living the high life !
HOT TIP
FREE PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION IN GENEVA Camping, youth hostels, Airbnbs, hotels, or palaces… regardless of where you stay, every visitor can take advantage of the Geneva Transport Card. Three days before your arrival a link allows you to download the digital card on your smartphone. Use it to take the Genevan buses, trams, trains, and mouettes (water taxis) for free during your stay! You can even use it the minute you land at the airport to get to the centre of town. geneve.com
ONE CELEBRATION, ONE RACE
THE INFAMOUS CELEBRATION (AND RACE) OF L’ESCALADE
HOT TIP
OUTDOORS
A TROPICAL OASIS IN THE CENTRE OF TOWN
SALÈVE PANORAMAS
When the mercury drops, Geneva’s Conservatory and Botanical Garden — the largest in the country, located in the international district — offers the perfect way to warm up with a visit to the greenhouses. The domed centennial Winter Garden (built in 1911) is a sophisticated Victorian-era greenhouse, where palm trees rub shoulders with coffee bushes, cacao trees, and papaya trees. The modern Tropical Greenhouse is home to 386 different species, mimics different types of humid, tropical forests, and is complete with air plants and orchids. Open daily from 8-17:00 until late March (open until 20:00 after that).
What is the Salève? It’s an iconic mountain, which culminates at 1,379 m in the French Prealps, just across the border. The Salève offers such a stunning view of the city and of Lake Geneva that it has been nicknamed the “Balcony of Geneva.” Since 1932, a cable car makes it easy for visitors to reach the summit. Managed by a cross-border organisation, the cable car reopened this autumn after two years of renovations. It’s the perfect excuse to go discover the new panoramic restaurant that features a terrace with 360° views, the permanent exhibition, and the large climbing wall. telepherique-du-saleve.com
Any Genevan worth his salt reveres the 12th of December. A precursor to holiday celebrations, this day goes down in history as the day Geneva vanquished the Savoy Army in their attack upon the city in 1602. Beginning December 2-3, the races known as the Course de l’Escalade welcomes some 40,000 participants in the city streets, most in costume, running by night during the infamous Course de la Marmite. At stake is the award for the best costume, a walking version of the race (for the less-athletically-inclined), mulled wine to go, musicians all over the city, and high spirits all around.
cjbg.ch
maisondusaleve.com
escalade.ch
WINTER 2023-2024
OUTDOORS
ENTERTAINMENT
WATCHMAKING
ICE SKATING ON FROZEN LAKES
LA BANQUISE AT EAUX-VIVES
AUDEMARS PIGUET, NOW MORE GENEVAN THAN EVER
Known as Little Siberia, with a record low temperature of -45° C, the Vallée de Joux (which is 1 hour north of Geneva, in Jura) is definitely the coldest part of Switzerland. When the thermometer drops as low as it can go, the local ponds and lakes freeze very quickly — even the large Lac de Joux (9.5 km2), which becomes the country’s largest natural skating rink! It’s a great reason to get out your skates to take on the safe skating areas in Le Pont, L’Abbaye, the Rocheray, or even try out the smaller lakes of Brenet and Ter. Skates can even be rented from the Mouquin shoe store, located at Grand-Rue 39 in Le Sentier.
In the summer months, the EauxVives docks near the Jet d’Eau are known for La Canopée, a space where all sorts of free sports and activities are made available to the public. But from January 18-March 26, La Banquise takes over the same area in the same spirit for winter. Goodbye yoga, Zumba, and bocce ball… Hello axe throwing, curling (without ice), and Mölkky (Finnish bowling)! Don’t forget the waterfront wellness space with wood-fired saunas (complete with a view of the lake) and yurt resting space, activities for kids, a Canadian food truck, and musical performances on the weekends.
This pioneer of luxurious sport watches is expanding its Genevan footprint. A new building dedicated to the brand’s packaging and bracelet fabrication, along with their New Technology Centre, is set to open in Meyrin-Satigny, just a few steps from the current watchmaking facility. Designed by FdMP Architectes in accordance with Minergie guidelines, the 9,400 m2 facility will restore and enlarge an existing industrial building from the 1960s. One of the highlights of the new space is stunning, glass-walled production spaces. Work began in September 2023 and is expected to finish late 2025.
myvalleedejoux.ch
geneve.ch/en/banquise
audemarspiguet.com
ENTERTAINMENT
GENEVA, WEST SIDE STORY On the left banks of the Arve River, just a hop, skip and a jump from the old town, in the Vernets quarter (known for being the location of Rolex headquarters), there’s a large, covered ice skating rink that’s home to the Genève-Servette Hockey Club. This winter, the rink will also welcome monthly disco nights, complete with a DJ and a bar setup around the rink on December 16, January 13, and February 10. All you need to do is to make sure you can wiggle your way around the rink on ice skates without falling down. gshc.ch
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WINTER 2023-2024
EVENTS
THE RETURN OF THE GENEVA INTERNATIONAL MOTOR SHOW After four successive cancellations — due to the repercussions of Covid and the war in Ukraine — the prestigious Geneva International Motor Show will make its comeback February 26-March 3, 2024, with its grand public opening taking place February 28. The event, which has always catered to high-end luxury brands, will take place with a reduced format both in terms of duration and size, all while targeting new car manufacturers and visitors. Technological revolutions, high performance, and energy saving innovations and designs are at the heart of this centennial edition, which expects no less than 300,000 attendees. In parallel, GIMS hosted a Qatar-based edition of the event in October 2023, the first Genevan Motor Show to be hosted abroad. genevamotorshow.com
WATCHMAKING
CITY PLANNING
INITIATION TO WATCHMAKING AT INITIUM
A NEW BIKEFRIENDLY BRIDGE
Are you curious about watchmaking? Created in Jura in 2015, Initium unveils the secrets of this centuries-old Genevan tradition via a day-long initiation workshop at its elegant offices in the old town (Grand Rue 17). The day begins with some theory followed by hands-on practice under the watchful eye of a true master watchmaker. Each participant gets to choose their own unique Swiss-quality components before taking a seat at the work bench and learning to assemble them using (the classic!) tweezers and screwdrivers. The movement comes last, bringing your creation to life as if by magic. Workshops are available Monday to Saturday, advance reservation required.
The Mont Blanc bridge has long been the Gordian Knot of Genevan traffic, connecting the old town with the train station, obliging pedestrians and bikes to share the sidewalks due to an unusually narrow, unidirectional bike path. To solve the problem, the municipality approved the construction of a new, 234 m pedestrian bridge, next to the Jet d’Eau. The sidewalks of the Mont Blanc bridge will thus be reserved for bikes only, completing the final section of a fully bikeable loop around the harbour. The grand opening is set for 2027.
initium.swiss/en
HOLIDAY FESTIVITIES
A NIGHT ON BROADWAY For its annual New Year’s Eve Gala (Dec. 31 at 19:30), the Grand Théâtre de Genève welcomes baritone Simon Keenlyside for a special evening of musical comedy, a favourite genre for this British singer, as evidenced by his 2014 album Something’s Gotta Give. The spectacle, which is perfectly aligned with the orchestra’s DNA of combining various styles and eras, will be directed by David Greilsammer, who has been the musical and artistic director of Geneva Camerata for over a decade. gtg.ch
geneve.ch
WINTER 2023-2024
CULTURE
WATCHMAKING
PAY WHAT YOU WISH
ZBINDEN, A WATCHMAKER IN VOGUE
The “pay what you wish” system at Geneva’s Musée d’Art et d’Histoire has been popular since its launch in 2022. Here visitors simply pay whatever sum they wish at the entrance or exit of the museum’s temporary exhibits, instead of paying the usual fee. While some pay nothing at all, the model has led to a three-time increase in the institution’s revenue, and as such, has since also been implemented at the Musée Rath and the Maison Tavel. mahmah.ch
WATCHMAKING
WATCHES & WONDERS: NOT TO BE MISSED!
If there was ever a Genevan ritual, the 85th Coupe de Noël is it, taking place December 16-17, 2023. Neither skiing nor running are on the agenda, instead participants undertake the longest cold-water swim in the world. Some 4,000 entrants (many in costume) take on the 120 m challenge in high spirits, which runs along the walking path of the Jardin Anglais. The lake is usually between 5-10° C at the time, so those who survive deserve hot tea (at the very least) to perk up afterwards.
Watches & Wonders, the successor of the Salon International de la haute hor- logerie (SIHH), will host the next edition of its annual event April 9-15, 2024, at the Palexpo convention centre in Geneva with a record 55 different watch brands and watchmakers. Formerly reserved for industry professionals, the last 3 days of the event will now be open to the public, from Saturday to Monday. Expect more meeting points and presentations at the salon, as the LAB will be hosting more events that promote manufacturer innovations and various career opportunities. To further increase public engagement, the event will also feature the Village des Horlogers in downtown Geneva with additional watchmaking presentations, exhibitions, and activities — including a free concert.
gn1885.ch/cdn
watchesandwonders.com
OUTDOORS
POLAR PLUNGE
Ernest, Raymond, Yves, Olivier… the Zbinden family have led this watch and jewellery boutique for four generations, ever since its creation in Geneva in the Roaring Twenties by their great grandfather. On June 23, 1944, the company moved into its Rue de Mont Blanc 17 address, where it remains to this day. A strategic location indeed, as tens of thousands of people pass by every day as they get off the train. Olivier Zbinden oversaw a recent refocusing of the family business, which honed in on their eight primary (and long-time) watch partners, and now O.ZBINDEN is getting ready to celebrate their 80th anniversary with some very special surprises in store. Stay tuned for more! montre-geneve.ch
*CHAMPAGNE AOC GRANDE CUVÉE KRUG, BRUT, 75 CL
249.–
(10 CL = 33.20)
96 Robert Parker
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*SAUVIGNON BLANC AUSTRALIA MARLBOROUGH CLOUDY BAY 2022, 75 CL
Vinum
34.95
(10 CL = 4.66)
*BOLGHERI DOC SASSICAIA TENUTA SAN GUIDO 2020, 75 CL
279.–
(10 CL = 37.20)
Des vins rares issus de notre cave ultra-select. En vente exclusivement en ligne sur:
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WINTER 2023-2024
GASTRONOMY
HOT TIP
INTERNATIONAL
FOR THE TRUE MUSIC LOVERS
A MAP IN AUGMENTED REALITY
GENEVA JOINS THE “SMART CITY” NETWORK
Every month from October 2023-June 2024, the Grand Théâtre de Genève marries eating well and superb music during its Sunday musical brunches, which take place in the foyer of the recently renovated ballroom, in between Bizet and benedicts. Live musical interludes and a series of decadent dishes await, Bellini (prosecco and peach nectar) in hand, of course. Space is limited, so you are best off making reservations in advance, and count 70 CHF per person for the decadent (well worth it) experience.
The Geneva Transport Card is good, the Geneva City Pass is even better. Available for 24h (30 CHF), 48h (40 CHF) or 72h (50 CHF), the City Pass offers free or reduced access to around 60 of the city’s museums and attractions — while also inclduing public transportation, of course. Want to do the Geneva Tour cruise? Free. The Musée d’Art et d’Histoire? Free. The Petit Train in the old town? Free. Paddle boats on the lake? Free. Enjoy just a few of these activities and your card will have already paid for itself!
gtg.ch/en/la-plage/le-grand-brunch
geneve.com
In a first for Switzerland, the canton of Geneva announced it was participating in the “Smart Geneva” initiative in 2021, and it fell upon the commune to find ways to make the city “smart” by integrating the OASC (Open and Agile Smart Cities) program. The goal? To make Geneva a model digital city of the future, pulling inspiration from the other 30-some cities that are also part of the international program, including Amsterdam, Brussels, Copenhagen, Glasgow, and Helsinki. The ultimate goal of the program is to find ways to use digital technologies to make life easier for local citizens. oascities.org
FESTIVAL
BALLOONS IN THE SKY From January 20-28, 2024, the Vaud ski station of Château-d’Œx, the self-proclaimed Alpine capital for hot air balloons, welcomes the 44th edition of the annual Festival International de Ballons (Hot Air Balloon Festival). Attracting dozens of teams from around the world, this spectacular and visually-stunning gathering celebrates hot air balloons with a mix of both demonstrations and competitions. It’s the perfect reason to get out of town, enjoy some fresh mountain air, and catch a beautiful show in the sky. festivaldeballons.ch
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White Days in Geneva When the Bise winds come Text Claude Hervé-Bazin Photos Stephan Torre
Normally a green oasis in the city of Geneva, here Parc Bertrand’s lawns are covered in snow and its remarkable trees crystalized in frost.
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On some winter days the powerful winds cause the Jet d’Eau to flare into a cascade, raining its icy mists across the docks.
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In early February 2012, the powerful Bise winds lifted the lake’s waters, enveloping the shoreline’s benches, boats, and parked cars in frozen spray.
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With each passing year, snow and ice become increasingly rare along Lake Geneva. Stephan Torre’s images ensure we will never forget those days of white magic.
In February 1985, half a metre of snow smothered the city of Geneva in one fell swoop, as if by magic. For a fleeting moment, the lowlands became the mountains, and the frozen city became a haven for skiing in the streets. It was the snowfall of the century and a beautiful memory for Stephan Torre, a local photographer who is known for his snapshots of his hometown. Ever since then, he’s been on the hunt for white, snowy days in Geneva, and after 35 years of gathering images, he published his book Jour blanc in 2020: a tribute to the snowy days of Geneva’s past. A sort of “Proust’s madeleine” as he describes it, a way of reminding future generations of Geneva’s captivating winters, which are now fading away as global temperatures rise.
years passed, his passion only grew. “Photography is a way of life; it is part of me and always has been,” said Torre. “Taking photos is a way of capturing a moment, seizing it, composing it. It’s the way we see every little component of our surroundings, which all combine to make up life on our planet.” A testimony, an aesthetic, a search for meaning, and throughout it all, a singular vision that aims to pierce and conquer the mysteries of time. What’s next for Stephan Torre? He’s beginning a new project and is still seeking additional partners for The 4 Seasons of Geneva, his next ode to his city.
Stephan Torre lives to collect instants in time, whether from his bicycle, which he rides all over the city, or through the people he meets and the everyday moments he experiences while traveling the world. Shots of the Bains des Pâquis, Geneva in that moment between day and night, and the wind in the bay all embody his light-driven vision of this city’s uniquely fleeting landscapes, ephemeral emotions, and the passing of time. It all started with photography classes in high school, 24x36 frames, pooling money with a group of friends to buy his first enlarger, and the red light and the smell of the chemical baths in the darkroom. Then there was his infatuation with concerts and popular rock bands. As the
Jour blanc, Geneva’s winter landscapes as photographed by Stephan Torre, with a preface by Martin Beniston. On sale online and in-store at Payot.
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Geneva, a feast for the senses In Olivier Jean’s two Michelin-starred kitchen Text Isabelle Guignet Photos Guillaume Cottancin
Much more than a revolving door for diplomats, Geneva is also a culturally diverse paradise for food lovers. Need proof? Look no further than Olivier Jean and L’Atelier Robuchon, which was awarded a second Michelin star this fall. Olivier Jean was over the moon when he was awarded his second star by the Michelin Guide for L’Atelier Robuchon Geneva.
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The challenge of haute cuisine, which must be constantly reinvented, is to successfully master structure, aesthetic, subtlety, and a harmony of flavours.
Humble, discreet, and good natured, Oliver Jean has much to smile about these days. Just two years after opening, L’Atelier de Joël Robuchon (located in the basement of The Woodward luxury hotel in Geneva) has once again staked a claim to excellence and unlocked a second Michelin Star, thanks to their incredible chef from Isère, France. A recognition that’s made all the more significant by the fact that this star came just one year after earning their first. Nothing could have made Olivier Jean happier or prouder: “I owe this second star to my team, who do spectacular work every single day,” he confessed with gratitude, in honour of the 11 people who power the kitchen at L’Atelier Robuchon. His magic words are “excellence” and “innovation.” His inspiration is none other than Joël Robuchon himself. Named Executive Chef of the Taiwanese branch of L’Atelier when he was only 27 years old, Olivier Jean still remembers hearing his master chef say those rare, coveted words, after tasting his Tournedos Rossini: “I’m proud of you.” “Fabulous,” he even added. Those words will forever live in the young chef’s memories, and Robuchon would repeat them again when Olivier won his first star in 2018. Honour, gratitude, respect, trust… these are all feelings Olivier experienced when he was awarded a second star, thanks in large part to the skills he learned working side-by-side with the great Robuchon, who, of course, congratulated him again this time, like a father who’s proud of his son. AN ECLECTIC GASTRONOME A second star for this Genevan chef by no means makes him stuck up when it comes to food. As an authentic local food lover, he can’t help stopping at every food stand and truck he sees. A simple plate of steak and French fries, with some Bearnaise sauce and a nice Bordeaux, makes him the happiest man on earth. So, what does Olivier Jean love about Geneva? More than anything else, he loves the city’s rich culinary scene — at the confluence of so many cultures — and its wide variety of local and exotic dining options. The chef has many recommendations to share. Looking for perch filets from Lake
Geneva? He recommends La Coupole, an iconic Genevan establishment, where freshness is guaranteed by the restaurant’s partnered fishermen, and where the chef delicately prepares the dish with lemon butter. A bistronomic restaurant that tickles his tastebuds? “Go see Serge Labrosse at La Chaumière (1 Michelin star) for an authentic and finely prepared meal,” he says. For classically elegant French cuisine, he recommends Michel Roth (who he idolizes) at the Hotel President Wilson. What about fish and shellfish? Jean-Marc Bessire, at Cigalon, will have what you want, says the chef. “All of the restaurants run by starred chefs in Geneva are brilliant, varied and interesting,” he adds enthusiastically. There’s no doubt in his mind that this lakeside city is experiencing a meteoric rise in culinary arts and quality. AT HOME AT L’ATELIER DE JOËL ROBUCHON L’Atelier de Joël Robuchon in Geneva is Olivier Jean’s new home. Two years, two stars, and he has every intention of maintaining them with great modesty. “We never stop learning!” he exclaims, comparing the art of cooking to architecture, watchmaking and even music. An art that must be practiced every day. “Above all, what makes a good chef is the palate, which must be fine-tuned at all times.” And he practices what he preaches: he tastes at least 140 teaspoons of food every day to ensure every dish leaving his kitchen is perfect! The menu? “50% signature dishes and 50% creations based on the seasons and clients’ demands,” he explains. That is how his Caviar Impérial, which was invented in Singapore in 2017, came to be: made of crab with a refreshing lobster jelly that’s topped with Imperial Caviar. But when it comes to Joël Robuchon’s legendary mashed potato recipe, the young chef refuses to give away any of his mentor’s secrets. The only thing he’ll say is that the restaurant uses 12 kilos of potatoes every day, along with a large quantity of butter. To see it made in person, you’ll have to get a seat at the counter to watch Olivier Jean and his team perform their magic, before moving to a table at this beautiful two Michelin-starred establishment. oetkercollection.com/hotels/the-woodward
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C H O C O L A T E A Genevan passion Text Yannick Nardin Photos Guillaume Cottancin
Geneva’s only cacao trees may be hidden in the Conservatory and Botanical Garden’s greenhouses, but the city’s chocolate specialists have spent two centuries perfecting their expertise. Mainstays like chocolate pavés (paving stones) and marmites (cauldrons) are both creations of the highest order, each made with a dash of madness and heaps of passion.
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No one can understand Genevan chocolate traditions without knowing about a local annual festival: The Escalade. This historic event commemorates the night of December 11th to the 12th in 1602, when the city triumphed over the Duke of Savoy and his army, who tried to invade Geneva by climbing over the city walls. While many fought to save the city, the legend highlights a woman known as La Mère Royaume, who is known for dumping a cauldron (marmite) of boiling vegetable soup from her window onto the invaders. Ever since, chocolate marmites have been made and broken on December 12th — among other festivities — to commemorate the city’s victory… giving Geneva’s chocolate makers centuries to perfect many variations of the celebrated marmite, including some that are stuffed with candy or vegetable-shaped marzipan. If you find yourself looking for one in Geneva this December, check out Martel in Carouge, which was founded in 1818, or Favarger, founded in Geneva in 1826. PAVÉS, PRINCESSES AND… DUSTBINS? While just as iconic in Genevan chocolate traditions, the pavé itself has no ties to The Escalade. These gourmet, cocoa-dusted squares date back to a 1936 recipe from the Rangel confectionery, which was then passed on to Rohr Chocolates, where they are still made (by hand!) according to the original recipe. Rohr is also the inventor of another surprising local speciality: the chocolate poubelle (dustbin), a bin-shaped chocolate shell that contains a soft, truffled heart. If enjoying a chocolate dustbin doesn’t sound tempting, you may be more apt to try an Amande Princess, invented by chocolate maker Auer before being picked up by other chocolate shops in the city. This delight features roasted and caramelised almonds that are coated in milk chocolate and dusted in cocoa powder. A FULL CHOCOLATE JOURNEY As chocolate is an age-old tradition in Geneva, there are infinite ways to enjoy it while exploring the city. The “Choco
Pass” gives holders access to special tasting plates created by the best and most famous local chocolate makers, including Stettler & Castrischer, Du Rhône, La Bonbonnière, Favarger, Zeller, Guillaume Bichet, Canonica, and Sweetzerland Chocolatier to name a few. Visit them all and enjoy a beautiful stroll around the city (to help you digest). You could also explore the School of Chocolate at La Bonbonnière, which offers multiple kinds of themed workshops for both children and adults. If you wish to savour cacao in a more ritualistic manner, consider a mystical ceremony with a local yogi. According to ancient Central American practices, cacao opens the heart and encourages relaxation, as ceremonial cacao contains tryptophan (an amino acid that’s usually cooked out of chocolate), which raises serotonin levels in the body. And to take your chocolate journey even further, consider a visit to the Genevan countryside where Orfève awaits in Satigny. Founded by two lovers (in life and of chocolate), the company has made a name for itself by mastering every single step of the chocolate making process, down to sourcing the cacao beans directly from the growers themselves. From selection and roasting, to breaking and milling, Caroline and François-Xavier have mastered every step in the hopes of making the best chocolate bars in the world. Next up on the chocolate tour is the Vaud village of Perroy, which offers both stunning views of Lake Geneva and fantastic chocolate by Tristan, an internationally renowned cacao bean expert, who also happened to be trained at Rohr in Geneva. And of course, no chocolate journey is complete without a visit to Cailler’s World of Chocolate in Broc (the Gruyère district in the canton of Fribourg). Although this large-scale, world-famous brand is no longer artisanal by trade, the history and magic of Swiss chocolate making is brought to life at their chocolate factory via all of your senses — including a tasting of course.
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A B C D E F G
G
Remember to exhale. Bentayga S.
Discover a powerful obsession at Geneve.BentleyMotors.com Bentayga S (V8) WLTP drive cycle: fuel consumption, mpg (l/100km) – Combined 21.7 (13.0). Combined CO₂ Emissions – 294 g/km. Fuel efficiency class: G. The name ‘Bentley’ and the ‘B’ in wings device are registered trademarks. © 2024 Bentley Motors Limited. Model shown: Bentayga S.
BENTLEY GENÈVE
Baghera/wines “The spot” for buying exceptional wines in Geneva Text Isabelle Guignet Photo Baghera/wines
As the European leader of rare wine auctions, Baghera/wines has made Geneva the “go to” spot for acquiring exceptional elixirs. We recently sat down with company founders Julie Carpentier and Michael Ganne, so they could
This rare lot of 2 bottles of Romanée-Conti 2011 grand cru sold at a highly competitive auction for CHF 38,400.
share their story with helvet. 2023 is a year of anniversaries and birthdays for Julie Carpentier and Michael Ganne, who are both celebrating their 45th birthdays in addition to celebrating 20 years of friendship. Their story, which could almost be told by Bacchus himself, began in 2003 when the duo was working with Christie’s to develop their wine departments in both Paris and Geneva. As the years went by, the duo’s common bonds grew as strong and powerful as the tannins of a Bordeaux grand cru. They began working on a project that would eventually come to life in Geneva in 2015: the creation of their very own auction house for rare wines.
sales in known history,” says Michael. One of their record sales was for a lot of 12 Bouchard Père & Fils bottles from 1865, which were sold at auction in 2021 for a sum of CHF 1,952,000. The auction was held during an exclusive event that was entirely dedicated to grands crus from La Romanée, the world’s smallest “Appellation d’origine contrôlée” (AOC) in Burgundy, which is only 0.85 hectares. Even more expensive was the sale of 1,064 bottles from none other than “The Master of Pinot Noir” Henri Jayer, which took place during a hotly contested auction and sold for a record sum of CHF 34.5 million.
AT BAGHERA IT’S ALWAYS WINE O’CLOCK… Under the Baghera/wines moniker, the two oenophiles and their panel of experts boast 8 years of operations between Geneva, Singapore and Dijon, at least 19 auctions, and 77 online sales (which are more frequent, usually thematic, and are fondly referred to as “Wine o’clocks”). So where are their best-selling markets? “Asia, the United States and Europe, of course,” explains Julie, who enthusiastically adds that in the Far East, “wine is also associated with the feminine!”
The wines proposed by Baghera/wines span historical wine cellars, heritage sales and private collections. Every bottle is scrutinized meticulously before being made available for purchase, regardless of whether the sale takes place at an auction, in-store or online. And yes, for wine lovers and collectors based in Switzerland — even more specifically, in Geneva — Baghera/wines has created a private, luxurious club that also serves as a boutique, within the Beau-Rivage Hotel. It’s the perfect place to acquire an exceptionally fine wine, starting at CHF 30 a bottle.
“Over the past few years, we’ve organized an impressive series of remarkable auctions, including some of the biggest wine
bagherawines.com
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Geneva Airport Growth Opportunities Text Philippe D. Monnier Photo Swiss International Air Lines Ltd.
After the pandemic, the Geneva Airport experienced a strong revival and resolidified its importance to Geneva International. While the current Managing Director anticipates minor growth, his successor could discover and develop new, unexpected opportunities.
Flying to over 142 destinations with 14 million passengers transiting each year, including some 5,000 heads of state and ministers, the Geneva Airport plays an unquestionably important role in the influence of Geneva International. Thanks to the reestablishment of its networks and connections, in addition to the post-pandemic boost in aerial traffic, this autonomous public establishment that employs 1,000 people boasted CHF 46.3 million in profits in 2022. And despite the ongoing climate emergency, people’s desire to travel seems stronger than ever. MODERATE GROWTH IN CONTINENTAL PASSENGER TRAFFIC In the past few decades, Geneva Airport has become accustomed to passenger traffic growing around 5% every year. Nevertheless, André Schneider, the current Managing Director, foresees future growth slowing to around 1% annually. The reasoning behind this anticipated slowdown is a saturation of continental routes, of which there are currently around 130. André Schneider also stresses that the airport in Geneva — in contrast to the airport in Zurich — can really only count on its local population, as it’s not considered an international flight hub. Schneider’s reduced growth estimations will likely have an effect on the establishment’s wage policies, which are currently (and delicately) under negotiation.
AN AMBITION TO INCREASE INTERCONTINENTAL FLIGHTS André Schneider hopes to increase the number of intercontinental passenger routes, which are fairly marginal in quantity when compared to the number of continental flight options. On top of the current 12 international routes, the idea would be to add several direct connections to Asia, North America, and possibly sub-Saharan Africa. This would obviously put the airport in competition with all the other airports in Europe, including the Zurich Airport. However, the Geneva Airport boasts a very unique selling point that may help sway airlines in its favour: most of the intercontinental flight tickets that are purchased for flights into or out of Geneva are for first class or business class. Latin America presents a more complex challenge as it highlights the importance of stimulating traffic in both directions. While there is confirmed interest in flights from Geneva to that part of the world, there is less enthusiasm and demand for flights traveling in the other direction, notably because of the economic hardships many Latin American countries are currently facing. And, in order to safeguard airline companies’ reputations, in addition to the Geneva Airport’s reputation, it’s essential that any newly introduced routes remain active for a minimum of one year.
HIGHLY SPECIFIC COMPETITION The Geneva Airport is also close to other airports, notably the airport in Lyon, so the destinations proposed out of Geneva need to be — and are — different enough to avoid any direct competition. The real competition is for the Swiss residents that live in Fribourg and Bern, as they live equal distances from both the Geneva Airport and the Zurich airport. Given the climate crisis, the train could theoretically replace certain flight paths, however travel by train takes considerably longer — especially if there are no direct connections — and the cost of tickets tends to be higher. As a result, only train travel from Geneva to Paris or to Zurich is truly competing with flights. NAVIGATING POLITICAL AND ADMINISTRATIVE COMPLEXITIES André Schneider will be retiring in 2024, and his successor will ideally need to be well versed in two very specific domains. Firstly, the future Managing Director will need to know how to navigate a remarkably complex, highly regulated, and very politically charged organization. Given that the Geneva Airport is an autonomous public institution, the legislation and governance that’s involved is complicated, in addition to influences coming from outside parties (neighbours and environmentalists
have proven to be remarkably good at launching successful grassroots initiatives). FUTURE (UNEXPECTED) POSSIBILITIES FOR DEVELOPMENT To breathe new life into the situation, the future Managing Director will also — and perhaps above all — need to be a seasoned business veteran, capable of providing very strong guidance regarding the airport’s development and growth. There are multiple opportunities that could still be explored, for example: an expansion of VIP and non-airport services, attracting a higher percentage of well-heeled, more profitable clients; creating a mini aerial hub for certain intercontinental routes; increasing competition with the airport in Lyon by offering similar routes; or even by focusing on developing business aviation, like the city of Nice did. And, of course, as in any large enterprise (yes, even ones that are operated by the government), there’s always the option to fundamentally reduce costs and increase operational efficiencies, which usually means completely revamping existing processes. Whichever path they choose to explore, the road ahead offers many challenges — and many opportunities — for the next Managing Director of the Geneva Airport. gva.ch
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From Geneva to the world WEF: an annual reunion that unites global leaders Text Philippe D. Monnier Photos World Economic Forum (WEF)
Although its flagship event takes place in Davos, the World Economic Forum (WEF) has deep roots in Geneva, where it enjoys access to the city’s many international organizations and an environment conducive to liberalism. Created 52 years ago, one could argue this foundation is one of Geneva’s most established start-ups. Every January, around 50 heads of state and government leaders, 70-some corporate directors from the Fortune 100 list, and other leaders of all persuasions come together in Davos for the World Economic Forum Annual Meeting. The event is world famous, but few people know the history of the WEF or what kind of work the organization does. Created in 1971 in Geneva by Professor Klaus Schwab — originally as a way to introduce European firms to American management practices — this one-of-a-kind organization has only continued to grow, and today it hosts one of the world’s greatest forums for discussions about economic, social, and political issues. Its official goal? “To improve the state of the world.” A broad agenda that is fraught with challenges and has seen its fields of activity expand significantly
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Olivier Schwab has been a member of the World Economic Forum since 2010 and is the current Managing Director.
under the leadership of its founder (and still Executive Chairman to this day) Klaus Schwab. It’s within this context that helvet recently interviewed his son, Olivier Schwab, a WEF Managing Director since 2019. A graduate from Ecole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (1997) and Massachusetts Institute of Technology (1999), he joined the Forum in 2010, after a career in various roles, notably at Schindler Group. Why did the WEF choose Geneva as their place of founding in 1971? It was a natural choice at the time because our founder, Professor Schwab, was teaching at the University of Geneva. It’s actually quite spot on to refer to the WEF as a former Genevan start-up because in the beginning, our only members were him and his wife! Geneva additionally offered the benefit of having a liberal approach towards entrepreneurship and it was home to an abundance of international organizations. Swiss neutrality is sometimes criticised, but can it still be considered an asset? The importance of Swiss neutrality is still very much intact, and we think of it as a guiding principle for all of our activities, especially as our world becomes increasingly polarized. What’s your relationship like with the Genevan authorities? We’ve always had a very positive relationship. In the beginning, the Forum was even supported by the State Bank of Geneva (BCGE). Genevan authorities are consistently present each year at our annual meetings in Davos. For example, in January 2023, we welcomed Nathalie Fontanet (State Councillor) and Marie Barbey-Chappuis (Mayor of Geneva). In fact, the Forum was actually just awarded a Special Prize by the jury of the Grands Prix de l’économie genevoise. The WEF’s main events take place outside Geneva, notably the event in Davos. Has this lakeside city never been a candidate for one your Annual Meetings? We’ve always wanted to host our annual reunions in a small, secluded village, so Davos has always been a natural fit. By choosing a place deep in the Grison Alps, participants are encouraged to focus on the forums themselves, instead of exploring the many activities a metropolitan city offers. That’s what we mean when we refer to the “spirit of Davos.” Over the years, the WEF has set up several global offices… Yes, at present we have representative offices in New York, San Francisco, Beijing, and Tokyo, and we also support and collaborate with a series of other external offices. Our foundation employs around a thousand people, including 350 employees who are seconded to the Forum on behalf of their organizations. Given our size and the global nature of our activities, it makes sense for us to have a diverse pres-
ence across the globe. That being said, 80% of our employees are based in Geneva, where we have our headquarters. Which Geneva-based international organizations do you primarily work with and how do they benefit from working with you? We collaborate closely with a multitude of international organizations, notably the World Trade Organization (WTO) and the World Health Organization (WHO). We are also very involved in the preparations for the United Nations Climate Change conference (COP). It’s natural for these types of organizations to collaborate with government partners; the Forum offers these organizations a multiparty perspective by also implicating the private sector, civil society, and the academic world. The WEF is financed by members from the private sector; are Swiss companies well represented among your membership? We have over a dozen Swiss conglomerates within our 100 Strategic Partners, who are all global companies that are heavily involved in our primary fields of activity and who each contribute up to 600,000 CHF every year. There are 800 companies total who finance the Forum’s activities; a third of which are based in Europe, a third in North America, and a third in the rest of the world. It’s worth noting that we are actively trying to grow our membership amongst that last third. In 2018, the WEF was officially recognized as a “public-private international organization” by the Swiss Confederation. What have been the benefits of this designation? This new status strengthened our recognition amongst our partner states, even if our reputation was already well established beforehand. It wasn’t easy to obtain this status because support from numerous countries was a sine qua non condition. Currently, only the Forum and the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) have obtained this designation. In the same vein, we also signed a partnership agreement with the United Nations in 2019, which outlines ways we can work together to speed up implementation of Agenda 2030’s goals for sustainable development. The official goal of the WEF is to “improve the state of the world.” How do you measure your success? One critical measure is the general and financial engagement of our private sector members. Another is the amount of trust our other partners place in us, notably our government, academic, and civil society representatives. It is essential for the Forum that all of our key stakeholders actively participate in our projects and activities. Among other factors, we also take into consideration how many initiatives are launched under the banner of our meetings or developed internally within our organization.
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The WEF campus in Cologny faces the Golf Club of Geneva and offers beautiful views of Lake Geneva.
What are some examples of initiatives that have been launched in Davos? There are many examples, but one that comes to mind is the “Alliance of CEO Climate Leaders,” which is a community of 120 CEOs who are determined to speed up our transition towards a net zero economy. Another is the “First Movers Coalition,” which regroups 65 large companies — many of whom are on the Fortune 100 list — that are committed to significantly increasing the sustainability of their supply chains. The WEF has evolved a lot over the years; what have been the main milestones in your development? Initially we started out as an organizer of international conferences. Then we grew to also offer the cocreation of content, community management, comanagement of pilot projects, and the development of new initiatives like the ones we just discussed. With all the international travel you’ve done, do you feel you have a strong personal connection to Geneva? Of course! I was born and raised in Geneva, and I consider this canton my home. Despite its medium size, Geneva has so much to offer its inhabitants, notably in terms of the dining, which never ceases to improve. I should mention that one
of my absolute favourite things to do is to take part in the l’Escalade festivities with my children. Your founder, Professor Klaus Schwab, has directed the WEF for over 50 years. The day he decides to retire, what fundamental changes do you expect for the organization? The Forum has a robust, professional, and stable management system in place. In addition to the Board of Trustees, which is chaired by Klaus Schwab, we also have a Managing Board that’s chaired by Børge Brende, that has done some amazing work for our organization. Over the last decade, the Board of Trustees has become increasingly dynamic and has set up sub committees that are actively involved in defining our strategy as we move forward. Professor Klaus Schwab’s succession is certainly not inconsequential… Indeed. Nevertheless, I am convinced that when the time comes, the Board of Trustees will be perfectly capable of managing the succession. In all cases, we can certainly anticipate that there will be no radical directional changes or abandonment of any of our key initiatives. weforum.org
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Rendez-vous at the spa Happiness is just a soak away
© Woodward Hotel
Text Yannick Nardin
Surrender to an ethereal ambiance — and Geneva’s longest indoor pool (21 m) — at the Woodward Hotel Spa.
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When the winters get tough, Genevans find respite in comforting activities that can soothe even the worst weather-related traumas. Some of the city’s iciest streets lead to heavenly spas, inviting us to
© Luca Fascini
let go, warm up, and relax.
© Woodward Hotel
As a city known for its water-related escapades, Geneva proudly offers aquatic enjoyment year-round. In the winter months, when the cold air hits the water of Lake Geneva and creates thick fog, the locals know exactly what to do to avoid seasonal depression: seek out inspiration and take the time to enjoy some much-needed self-care. Here, knowing the best locations for hydrotherapy or spa treatments is the true social currency, and the city offers a host of new establishments, state-of-the-art innovations in beauty care, and an enchanting variety of massages that are in constant competition with the older, more established centres of “zen.” Relax, ease the stresses of everyday life, and let go of your worries in one of Geneva’s many spas, where time seems to stand still as you soak in opportunities for physical, mental, and emotional rejuvenation. FOR THE YOUNG AT HEART OF ALL AGES Picture this: it’s Friday afternoon, the end of a gruelling and packed work week, now finally giving way to a few hours of relaxation. You hop over to the luxurious Rues Basses shopping district on the left bank (between the lake and the old town) without even noticing the beautiful holiday window decor. Your destination? L.Raphaël’s “Temple of Beauty”
on Rue du Rhône, established in 2005. Here, the brand’s famous oxygen treatments boast immediate and long-term skincare results for both men and women, regardless of age. The treatments, combined with expert massages and a host of skincare products, are the ultimate in relaxation: oxygen ripples over your skin, smoothing away lines and wrinkles and restoring radiance. If only the Bise wind had the same power! If this initial and highly exclusive treatment leaves you wanting more, head to Champel, another beautiful and mostly residential neighbourhood, where After The Rain spa offers unique Treatment Capsules. There is no set menu here. Treatment capsules are customized on the spot to meet your needs, spanning offerings like essential oils, hot stones, gua sha, jade roll, suction cups, body scrubs, massage, or Kobido, and always include a private hammam, some tea, and delicacies in your very own dedicated loggia. IN A ROBE AND SLIPPERS It may seem crazy to imagine a life of everyday wellness treatments but, luckily for us, many of the local high-end hotels have taken it upon themselves to help any caterpillar who’s short on Vitamin D metamorphose into a beautiful
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Soak in the timeless rejuvenation of La Réserve Genève’s spa, set within a beautiful four-hectare park.
butterfly. How exactly? By developing their own rituals, associating with renowned skincare brands, and by giving the general public (not just paying guests) access to many of their pools, spas, and treatments. Among them are the Jiva Hill Resort, Hotel President Wilson (La Mer), the Four Seasons, the Fairmont (Valmont), the InterContinental (Cinq Mondes), and Hotel Bristol, each with their own unique offerings. At the Woodward Hotel, you can find Guerlain treatments in the spirit of the brand that has been harnessing the innate power of nature in its exceptional formulas since 1828. The 1,200 m2 spa is home to Geneva’s longest indoor pool (21 m), bathed in ethereal lights and nestled in amongst saunas, hammams, and Nordic baths. To keep the dream going even longer, many of these establishments also propose wellness getaways in the form of a “staycation.” Take, for example La Réserve Hotel’s Nescens Better-Aging Package, which takes place over 7-14 days and
includes a personal trainer, treatments, massages, balneotherapy and, of course, personalized healthy meals, making this a splendid way to take a break, recharge, and emerge resplendent! “PUBLIC” BATHS No rundown of Genevan spas would be complete without a mention of the Bain Bleu. Built in 2015, this lakeside haven is an unusually affordable option for finding much needed relaxation. A rather discreet building façade gives way to beautiful baths and hammams, designed by Genevan architects GMAA. The cherry on the cake is the rooftop heated pool, which offers an exclusive panorama of the lake and the surrounding mountains. This is the place to enjoy a sunset cocktail or even an evening soak, sipping some bubbly while immersed in bubbles, beneath the stars... an ideal way to shake off your stress and enjoy some prime Genevan pampering.
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Guillaume Cottancin Building an appetite through photography Text Claude Hervé-Bazin Photos Guillaume Cottancin
Imperial caviar and crab with a refreshing lobster jelly: a perfectly symmetrical dish by Chef Olivier Jean at L’Atelier Robuchon in the Woodward Geneva Hotel.
Leaf, rock, and a mysterious centre. A photographer’s work entails finding the perfect balance of a place’s identity, materials, and textures.
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Chef Jérémy Verquiere, of l’Agape in Carouge, created an exquistely pure and refined cucumber and caviar ravioli.
Sublime lateral light on Jordbær, a strawberry, black lemon, and sweet woodruff dessert by Chef Francesca Fucci at Fiskebar in the Ritz Carlton.
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Marrying vessels and contents, gastronomy is a visual art and photography is its herald.
The forest infuses Chef Paul Cousin’s blackcurrant crisp steeped in pine at MAPO restaurant. Opposing page: L’Agape’s fresh take on tuna tataki.
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“Gastronomy is the art of using food to create happiness,” wrote British philosopher and sociologist Theodore Zeldin. For Guillaume Cottancin, that same happiness also comes from his work: photographing beautifully chef-prepared dishes.
At the Four Seasons, Jean-Marie Roger proposes a spectacular assembly of mango, Indonesian kaffir lime, and Nepalese grapefruit pepper.
FALLING UNDER THE SPELL As is often the case, it all started with a chance opportunity. Guillaume Cottancin was studying economics and working on the side in a hip Genevan burger joint. He was interested in marketing, so the manager put him in charge of their social media and lent the young student a camera and some lights to take photos. Next thing you know, Guillaume was a food photographer. Picture this: a loaf of bread on a cutting board. Back then, Guillaume knew next to nothing about photography. But after much research, many hours glued to the camera viewfinder, and a slew of plates, he found himself remembering his childhood. He had wanted to be a chef when he was young and often got his hands dirty in the kitchen with his mother. As a bartender and server, he saw everything the restaurant had to offer… and then he stepped through the looking glass. WHEN IT’S BEAUTIFUL, YOU KNOW IT’S GOOD Now, just a few years later, the self-taught photographer has become an expert in his field, known for his specialization in local dishes and ingredients. “Whoever can be trusted with very little can also be trusted with much,” explained Guillaume, citing the Gospel. His approach, which comes with some much-appreciated help from his wife, could not be more straightforward: stay focused on the job at hand. His images defy extravagance in favour of purity and simpleness. “As I learned more about lighting, I started to remove more from my images. I wanted to get back to the basics and focus on the essential: the chef’s plate.” Photographing a dish isn’t easy. Doing it creatively and
making it feel fresh is even harder. “I like playing with light and the textures of the restaurant to give the dish some context,” explains the young photographer. “I especially enjoy taking pictures of the dish when it’s not on the table.” On the floor? Why not! “That’s when you start to really be creative, have fun, and get some unique shots. But it’s not actually about what I see. Photography is simply sharing as a service, much like hospitality. The client sets it up and I make suggestions, but the end goal is that they are happy with the shots, and I am happy with my work. When that happens, it means we’ve aligned our visions and created images that are as unique as the restaurant.” “AM I A FOODIE? ABSOLUTELY!” Guillaume is not only blessed with eagle eyes, but he also has a very healthy appetite. “Am I a foodie? Absolutely! Food is my dream job and it’s what I spend most of my money on,” he says. The cherry on the cake is that after most of his photo shoots, he gets to taste the dishes he just photographed… despite the chefs’ protests that their dishes aren’t made to be eaten cold, of course. The chefs also often share perspectives that can be applied outside the restaurant. “I admire restaurants and hotels that take the time to find innovative solutions for reducing food waste and those who support sourcing local products like butter, vegetables, and meat. Switzerland produces some wonderful meat and fish. It just takes more time to find them locally, instead of sourcing from the Atlantic Ocean. Of course, there’s a cost involved… but I think we should be encouraging these kinds of practices, even if that means raising prices.” guillaumecottancin.com
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Sincere luxury Chopard: a story of entrepreneurs and strong values Text Yannick Nardin Photos Chopard
Karl-Friedrich Scheufele is passionate about cars and is behind the partnership between Chopard and the Mille Miglia classic car endurance race.
Just as the “Happy Diamonds” collection waltzes around jewels, and and the seconds tick on an exceptional watch, an entire universe gravitates towards and revolves around Chopard. A world rooted in excellence, passion, and strong ethics; cultivated by the company’s owners, the Scheufele family. Caroline and Karl-Friedrich Scheufele, Co-Presidents of Chopard, manage the jewellery and watchmaking divisions, respectively.
Chopard, one of the largest watch and jewellery companies in the world, resembles no other. It’s a singular brand, always independent, with multiple identities, anchored in Switzerland and Germany, and between Geneva and the Jura watchmaking region. Its history is intimately tied to the talents of two families. Firstly, the Chopards, who founded the brand in Sonvilier (BE) in 1860, before settling in Geneva in 1937. Second, the Scheufeles, originally from southwestern Germany, who acquired the company in 1963, giving it new dimension when it was modernized by Karl Scheufele III. The company then reached for the stars under the leadership of his children, Caroline and Karl-Friedrich, Co-Presidents and visionary leaders since 2001. Karl-Friedrich leads the brand’s watchmaking divison, and integrated the production of the movements into the company, despite the industry trends moving in the opposite direction. As an early investor in Chopard’s manufacturing sector, he designed his first sport watch at only 22 years old (the St. Moritz, the inspiration behind the Alpine Eagle), and as a lover of vintage cars, he created the Mille Miglia collection. Now a cornerstone for Chopard, the Mille Miglia was born from a partnership (the longest of its kind!) with the celebrated Italian car race, which Karl-Friedrich has participated in every year since 1989. All of these integral decisions reveal a profound vision
and desire, as the company’s Co-President explains, he “never bets on short term profits, but rather focuses on continuity, independence, progress, and the authenticity required to express a unique watchmaking spirit for the next 25 years — and beyond.” Meanwhile, in 1985, it was Caroline who built out the company’s jewellery divison, initially creating a jewellery line inspired by the brand’s free floating “Happy Diamonds” watch concept. But she was also behind another key brand partnership that brought Chopard exceptional visibility: in 1997, she convinced the director of the Festival de Cannes to redesign the Palme d’Or prize. As such, since 1998, Chopard has been responsible for manufacturing these coveted trophies, an echo of the stars on the red carpet who sparkle spectacularly, often wearing Chopard creations. This beautiful brand history has also forged the company’s strong commitment to sustainability.” RESPONSIBLE LUXURY It all began in 2011, when Caroline met Livia Firth, wife of British actor Colin Firth. An advocate for environmentally-responsible fashion, Livia inquired about the provenance of Chopard’s gold… and Caroline could not answer. She knew the names of the banks that provided it, but not the origins of the metal itself.
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In March 2023, actress and Chopard Ambassador Julia Roberts joined Caroline and Karl-Friedrich Scheufele to announce the company’s commitment to using 80% recycled alloy in the production of all steel watches.
The Co-President and her brother set out to tackle the challenge. To ensure ethical sourcing of their materials, the company began collaborating with initiatives like Fairmined, Swiss Better Gold, and the Responsible Jewellery Council (RJC). Then, in 2014, the Palme d’Or was forged entirely of Fairmined gold for the first time — a small revolution in the worlds of goldsmithing and jewellery-making. Now, since 2018, all of Chopard’s watches and jewellery have been made using ethical gold and set with precious gems that are RJC certified. Additionally, as of 2023, the company has committed to using only steel that contains at least 80% recycled materials (a brand-exclusive alloy called Lucent Steel), which will increase to 95% by 2025. A GENEVAN BEACON… WITH A FEW SURPRISES! Even though the jewellery is designed in Germany, in Pforzheim, and the watch movements are made in Fleurier, Chopard’s headquarters are actually located in Geneva. The Meyrin office houses multiple departments and workshops, notably those responsible for melting gold (which is unusual in the industry), watch case and bracelet fabrication, and the assembly and fine-tuning of all watches certified to bear the Poinçon de Genève (The Geneva Seal). The Chopard boutique in town can also be found at #27 rue du Rhône.
Even more unexpected, Karl-Friedrich has also been investing in wines — another of his passions — since the 1990s. Any Genevan who appreciates a top-quality cru knows about the Caveau de Bacchus (#5 Cours de Rive): the exclusive distributer in French-Switzerland of the highly-sought-after Domaine Romanée Conti wines. Karl-Friedrich even went so far as to acquire the Château Monestier La Tour (in Bergerac, France), and restored the domain and surrounding landscapes to promote polyculture in harmony with the natural environment. Another surprise is found just a few kilometres from Geneva: The Alpine Eagle Foundation. Co-founded by Karl-Friedrich, the foundation aims to reintroduce the white-tailed eagle into its natural habitat. A project that also ties back to the Chopard Alpine Eagle collection, which features watch dials that resemble an eagle’s iris. What’s next for Chopard? The coming years look bright, as the next generation of Scheufeles are already heavily involved, ready to take the baton and faithfully carry this family’s exceptional values into the future. chopard.com
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The
BEST brunches in Geneva Text Isabelle Guignet
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1. L’IODE Parisian-style brunch
2. THE INTERCONTINENTAL A high-end gastronomy experience
3. GRANOLA Both healthy and delicious
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In an elegant setting that’s on par with the most chic Parisian brasserie, L’Iode’s brunch unfolds over multiple dishes and many small wonders: honey and fig pancakes; pumpkin, feta and pomegranate salad; mushroom eggs Benedict… all of it will delight your tastebuds. And don’t forget to try the Bun’n’Roll with shrimp and guacamole!
Abundant and refined, brunch at the Woods restaurant in the InterContinental makes for a truly memorable Sunday afternoon. This luxurious dining experience revolves around a spectacular buffet that spans everything from pastries and shellfish to more sophisticated dishes like Beef Wellington.
Capitalizing on their earlier successes, this temple of healthy brunch now offers 2 locations. The menu features delicious avocado toast inspired by our friends down under; colourful bowls of all varieties; gluten- and lactose-free pastries; and chiatella, a flavourful chia-seed, coconut, and Nutella pudding.
4. ALIVE Local and sustainable
5. HÔTEL PRÉSIDENT WILSON Brunch by Michel Roth
6. BIRDIE FOOD & COFFEE A successful minimalist approach
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birdiefoodandcoffee.com
This Genevan concept store was made for vegan and superfood brunch extravaganzas. The menu is bursting with colours and flavours, including bircher muesli, beet hummus, cauliflower roti, oyster mushroom rillettes, and kidney bean quesadillas. There’s no better way to eat fresh, local, organic, and seasonal!
Every Sunday, Brunch by Michel Roth features a (very) large hot and cold buffet, complete with freshly prepared dishes, served in the winter garden when the temperatures plummet. Enjoy Didier Steudler’s pastries and a multitude of gourmet dishes to share in a beautiful and relaxed family-friendly setting.
Among the top brunch spots to have opened in Geneva, Birdie is still flying high on the list with its minimalist and highly focused approach. Here you can expect to find granola, avocado toast, “perfect eggs,” and croque-monsieur among other delights, including an impressive assortment of locally roasted coffees.
7. MARCEL Simple and efficient
8. KIOSQUE DES BASTIONS Gourmet and relaxed
9. CHRISTIE’S BAKERY For brunch every day
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At the edge of the Eaux-Vives neighbourhood, Marcel offers an uncomplicated welcome. The (daily!) brunch menu includes the seductive Super Healthy Bowl overflowing with fruit; pancakes; waffles; eggs (Benedict, poached with smoked salmon, or scrambled); and a large Full English plate, which will satisfy even the most voracious appetites.
Delightfully located in the heart of the Parc des Bastions, in a cocoon of greenery and gorgeous windows, the Kiosque (which opened in 1882) offers a sumptuous buffet with two seatings on Sundays. Expect pancakes, plates of cheese and charcuterie, and pastries as part of the wide array of both sweet and savoury options.
If you’re looking for a chic candybox-inspired brunch option, you can count on Christie’s! Boasting a large variety of pastries, yummy cupcakes, Russian Medovic honey cakes, and other savoury Slavic specialities, this tea house has everything to make your tastebuds sing. Cherry on the cake? Brunch is offered every day!
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160 km of enormous undertaking The world’s hardest rowing competition is Genevan Text Olivier Dufour Photos Loris von Siebenthal / Société Nautique de Genève
Each year, hundreds of rowers flock to the Société Nautique de Genève in late September to take part in an unusual adventure, when Lake Geneva’s oldest and most prestigious yacht club organises the BCGE Tour du Léman à l’Aviron. It’s an epically infernal sporting challenge that takes place in very heavenly surroundings.
It’s the last weekend of September and the sun has just started to come up over the calm waters of Lake Geneva. Floating just offshore of the Société Nautique de Genève (SNG), a silent fleet of around 20 vessels calmly awaits their cue. One could almost think they were a small floating army, poised quietly, waiting for their signal to attack the city. But these troublemakers are not here for a siege (although they will suffer mightily in other ways), they are here for one of the world’s most unique and challenging sporting odysseys: the BCGE Tour du Léman à l’Aviron. An unmissable event for lovers of long-distance challenges, this epic rowing tour of the lake was created in 1972 to celebrate the 100th anniversary of the SNG, which had its beginnings in rowing before later expanding into three other sections (the Sailing Circle, Light Yachting, and Propeller). This 160 km long aquatic event both begins and ends in Geneva, passing Le Bouveret and multiple coastal check points, forming the world’s longest non-stop race on a landlocked lake. The event is a remarkable challenge, with a record completion time (set in 2011) of 11 hours, 43 minutes, and 30 seconds.
The SNG rowers train on two charming and beautiful bodies of water, which they share with top rowers from all over the world.
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The German team won for a third consecutive time at the 51st edition of the BCGE Tour du Léman à l’Aviron, with rowers from Bonn, Cologne, Neuwied, and Stuttgart. Germany’s teams have dominated the race consistently since its very early days.
Every year, the race unites highly experienced rowers from all over the world. The majority of the competitors are from Germany, which dominates long-distance rowing and has won almost every edition of the event since it was created. Particpatants from other countries include Switzerland, France, the Netherlands, Britain, and beyond. All of them are drawn here, for an epic race in the picturesque setting of this truly unique body of water. In 2022, during the event’s 50th edition and the 150th anniversary of the SNG, the regatta welcomed a fleet of 26 boats, nearly maxing out participation in the race. Every vessel is accompanied by a small motorboat for both safety and logistics, so the organisers are obliged to limit the number of entries. However, not all who start will actually finish. Exhaustion forces many of the teams to abandon their quest in addition to the occasional boat that sinks because of wind (the number one enemy of rowers, which can form waves that threaten to fill the boats with water). Luckily, safety and rescue workers are on call throughout the race to keep a close watch over participants. Occasionally the race will be shortened — or outright cancelled — due to inclement or extreme weather. In 2018, the entire event was (luckily and wisely) relocated to a section
of the Rhône River because of intense sustained winds. It gave teams an opportunity to race in different waters (which although more discreet, are no less beautiful) and gave the Genevan rowers a slight advantage as that’s where the SNG rowing team trains for the 2,000 m Olympic sprint. And even though Switzerland isn’t known as a rowing nation per se, it does have a fair number of impressive wins and champions in its history books. Some of the biggest Swiss rowing stars are Andrin Gulich and Roman Röösli, the 2023 Coxless Pair World Champions who will be competing in the Olympic Games in Paris, along with Eline Rol, the 2019 European and World Champion in M23, who is also a leading light at the Société Nautique de Genève. Even so, very few of these top calibre rowers are found at the starting line of the Tour du Lac, with the exception of Olympic rower Barnabé Delarze, who participated in the 2019 edition. This unique race can really only be tackled by those with a high tolerance for pain and suffering, who train rigorously and very specifically, as it requires consistent, near breakneck speed for almost an entire day and night. Challenge accepted? nautique.ch
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Bentley Genève Winter Tour 2024 Une belle Anglaise à la montagne Texte Daniel Bauchervez Photo Bentley Motors
Qui n’a jamais rêvé de se glisser derrière le volant d’une Bentley ? De caresser le cuir de ses sièges et le bois précieux de sa planche de bord ? Une chimère ? Peut-être pas. Cet hiver, Bentley se déplace pour des test drives dans les plus prestigieuses stations suisses. Son riche passé en courses dans les Années Folles et sa passion du détail lui ont forgé une inébranlable réputation, faisant de Bentley le « phare du luxe contemporain », selon le slogan désormais établi. La marque britannique joue aujourd’hui, plus que jamais, la carte de la tradition, du savoir-faire et de la personnalisation. Le prix (certes élevé) d’une Bentley, c’est le prix de la patience, du geste sûr et du respect jusqu’au-boutiste des traditions — harmonisées au meilleur des dernières technologies. Dans les bâtiments en brique presque centenaires de l’usine de Crewe, au nord de l’Angleterre, plus proche de Manchester que de Birmingham, l’œil et l’esprit comptent davantage que les meilleurs des automatismes. Jauger l’harmonie des veines des bois précieux, repérer d’un regard sûr les éventuels défauts des cuirs sélectionnés dans des élevages nord-européens sans barbelés… bien mieux que n’importe quelle machine, les artisans d’art de Bentley font entrer leur sensibilité dans la chaîne de fabrication. Une recette gagnante : jamais la marque n’a autant vendu qu’en 2022. UN WINTER TOUR À CRANS-MONTANA, GSTAAD ET VERBIER Pour toucher cette histoire du doigt, il faut monter à bord. Dans la Cité de Calvin, où se trouve le seul garage romand de la marque. Et désormais en station, où l’équipe de Bentley Genève se délocalise temporairement cet hiver, à la ren-
contre de sa clientèle et en quête de sensations sur les plus belles routes alpines de Suisse. C’est cela, le Winter Tour : trois fois deux jours à Crans-Montana (janvier), Gstaad (février) puis Verbier (mars), pour faire partager, dans ces écrins de beauté, de luxe et d’élégance, les valeurs et l’esprit Bentley. L’occasion pour chacun de ressentir, de respirer, de vivre l’invraisemblable niveau de qualité des modèles. Bref, de capter l’essence de Bentley — sans mauvais jeu de mot. A l’essai sur route, la plupart des modèles à succès de la gamme : les légendaires Continental GT et GTC, indissociables du prestige de la marque ; l’imposante Flying Spur de 5,31 m, donnant le sentiment de pénétrer dans un lounge feutré ; le récent Bentayga aussi (EWB et châssis classique), « le SUV le plus luxueux du monde ». Versions W12 et V8 mythiques, ou hybride — en attendant, dès l’année prochaine, le premier véhicule tout-électrique de la marque (objectif neutralité carbone dès 2030). Les itinéraires ont été soigneusement dessinés pour mettre en valeur les capacités exceptionnelles des Bentley, leur confort, leur polyvalence, leur puissance et leur maniabilité jusque dans des conditions hivernales exigeantes. Un simple flash de QR Code pour prendre rendez-vous et voilà. Comme quoi, on peut être un chantre de la tradition et adepte des dernières technologies. geneve.bentleymotors.com
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Bulgari Serpenti Tubogas Chic and glamourous, this enchanting version of the Serpenti watch — which originally launched in 1948 — wraps its bracelet languorously around your wrist. The sensually curved, black opaline dial of this beautiful watch exudes femininity and pairs perfectly with the snake-like spiral Tubogas bracelet. bulgari.com
Omega Aqua Terra Shades
Patek Philippe Calatrava 4997/200R
Vacheron Constantin Patrimony automatique
Clean and refined lines are the heart and soul of the Aqua Terra Shades. This watch, in 18K polished Sedna© gold, features a diamond-studded bezel, a conical crown, a sun brushed and lacquered sandstone-coloured dial, and white Super-LumiNova rhodium-plated indexes for the perfect amount of glow.
Warm rose gold and purple come together to dress this Calatrava that features an almost hypnotic pattern on the dial: composed of embossed concentric waves, and at least 50 coats of lacquer, it radiates fascinating depth and energy. A diamond-set bezel completes the elegant look of this beautiful timepiece.
This watch oozes a classic, minimalist aesthetic in the understated and timeless elegance of Vacheron Constantin watches from the 1950s. Here in rose gold, this 36.5 mm watch features an interchangeable bracelet, a rose blush dial, a circular-grained minute-counter and a bezel dotted with 72 diamonds.
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Co-Axial Master Chronometer 38 mm
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Rolex Oyster Perpetual GMT-Master II
Piaget Polo Date
Cartier Tank Américaine
Yellow gold is finally making a comeback! This now restyled model is available in two new versions, one that’s bicoloured in steel and gold, and a second which is entirely decked out in famously flamboyant yellow gold. Both versions feature a beautiful, never-before-seen grey and black ceramic dial.
Both sporty and feminine simultaneously, the Polo Date can charm practically anyone with its beautiful 36 mm two-toned case. Made of rose gold and steel, it boasts 60 diamonds on the bezel and another 36 diamonds on the dial (3 per index). The interchangeable bracelet allows you to switch up your look on the go.
Among the many models in the Tank collection, this Américaine is sure to seduce you with its rectangular case and octagonal crown in rose gold, beautifully studded with 33 gorgeous diamonds. The silver-coloured dial displays the brand’s legendary chemin de fer minute track and iconic blue hands. A winning choice.
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Breitling Super Chronomat Origins
Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Automatique 34 mm
Chopard Alpine Eagle
It’s with an eye towards sustainability that Breitling developed their Origin watches, a collection of timepieces that aim to have a reduced social and environmental impact. A highlight of the collection are the synthetic diamonds and the use of Swiss Better Gold, a fully traceable gold that supports small mines who prioritize best practices.
Say hello to the first Royal Oak Automatic 34 mm watch entirely made of white ceramic — a powerful follow-up to the entirely black version, which launched to great success. The pure white of this watch contrasts beautifully with the rose gold hands, indexes, crown, watch back and oscillating weight.
The eagle flies on high and sees all with its penetrating stare. Chopard captures the iconic energy of this powerful bird’s iris in the stunning finish of the Alpine Eagle dial. Made of Chopard-exclusive ethical rose gold and steel (composed of at least 80% recycled metal), the sky’s the limit for the seductive powers of this 36 mm beauty.
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3. Baume & Mercier Riviera 10717
1. Chanel Première Lucky Star What if we could travel through time and space with Gabrielle Chanel’s eternal elegance? The black lacquered dial of the Première Lucky Star sparkles subtly with its aventurine effect and features a diamond-covered bezel and star-shaped charm. A perfect addition to the Interstellar capsule collection that embodies the magic of a starry sky. chanel.com
2. Longines HydroConquest This model from the HydroConquest collection — which came to life in 2007 with watches that are waterproof up to 300 m — reinterprets the traditional dive watch. Boasting an entirely black look, it’s topped with a sporty case and bezel in ceramic, which is both extremely elegant and highly scratch-resistant. longines.com
This watch is the perfect companion for any water sport enthusiast. Waterproof up to 300 metres, this powerful looking timepiece boasts a 120-hour power reserve, and its dodecagon-shaped, unidirectional rotating bezel makes it easy to calculate time spent underwater — a welcome feature for any diver. baume-et-mercier.com
4. Hamilton Ventura Flex Did you know Elvis Presley wore a Ventura? The world’s first electric watch now pays tribute to the King with a remarkably flexible bracelet. The atypical design and geometry of this piece give it a striking, rock’n’roll look, while the newly automatic quartz movement keeps track of the time. hamiltonwatch.com
5. Norqain Wild ONE TCS NY Now THIS is a marathon runner’s watch that will really help you pick up the pace. Made of Norteq, which is 6 times lighter than steel (and 3.5 times lighter than titanium), it is also extremely shock resistant. Only 262 copies of this special limited-edition dial were made, which retraces the route of the legendary New York Marathon. norqain.com
6. Hublot Square Bang Unico Titanium Known for its disruptive and unconventional shape, this square-shaped watch from Hublot has been turning heads since it first launched in 2022. This new interpretation exudes Hublot’s core DNA of “The Art of Fusion,” with a show of strong character that’s brought to life in robust, lightweight titanium. hublot.com
7. Tudor Pelagos FXD Three, two, one… dive! The bidirectional rotating bezel of the Pelagos FXD facilitates sequential course navigation (without having to come to the surface) thanks to the integration of a magnetic compass. Perfectly fitting for a watch that was born in 1950, specifically to meet the needs of a unit of the French marine corps. tudorwatch.com
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1. Dolce & Gabbana Short pleated dress with full sequined sleeves dolcegabbana.com
2. Graff Tilda’s Bow Classic Diamond Ring graff.com
3. Dom Pérignon Champagne Vintage 2008 by Juliette Clovis domperignon.com
4. Chanel Coco Neige Collection Short boots chanel.com
5. Jacob & Co Billionaire Ashoka jacobandco.com
6. Georg Jensen Henning Koppel Can 1
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1. Prada Saffiano Leather Travel Bag prada.com
2. Dior Dior oblique sweater dior.com
3. Byredo Eau de parfum Animalique globus.ch
4. Bolia & Pioneer DJ Cord DJ Console, 4 deck bolia.com
5. Brunello Cucinelli Mountain-style boots shop.brunellocucinelli.com
6. Loewe Anton Sling leather bag 1
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1. Louis Vuitton Keepall Clutch Blown Up 25 louisvuitton.com
2. Timeline Nutrition The Day Cream timelinenutrition.com
3. Alessi by Philippe Starck Poêle Collection, Monoshell Chair ch.alessi.com
4. Roche Bobois by Christian Ghion Autographe Floor Lamp roche-bobois.com
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