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T HE JUST WORLD GOT SMALLER With every technological advance, the world shrinks a bit more. Aboard the Gulfstream G650™, the fastest ultra-long-range certified civilian aircraft in existence, intercontinental travel has never been quicker or more comfortable. So if travel means the world to you, spend more time at your destination than getting there.
FOUNDER & CO-FOUNDER’S LETTER هماخف
ترشع و شیع
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奢侈品
Dear lovers of luxury
W
DUBAI
NYC
13 HOURS AND 24 MINUTES*
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Also in this issue we are thrilled to introduce the launch of the first Abu Dhabi boutique for the legendary Graff Diamonds. It’s a true showcase of exceptional quality and style. We were honoured to sit down with Mr. Francois Graff, CEO of Graff, and get his views on his family’s business and the unique experience presented in the UAE for Graff’s exceptional craftsmanship. We were struck by how down-to-earth and easy-going Mr. Graff was, given his high profile at the company known for some of the most fabulous jewels in the world. You can read our interview with him later in these pages.
e’re so pleased to bring to you the wealth of luxurious content contained within the pages of our thirteenth edition. As always, there have been many exciting developments in the world of Abu Dhabi’s rich tapestry of lavish lifestyle offerings. We hope you’ll enjoy reading about them.
to
Lujo
And in another first for the region? The long-awaited appearance of the legendary Rolling Stones, who chose Abu Dhabi’s du Arena on Yas Island to kick off their latest tour. Leaving no doubt they can still rock, the Stones lit up the Emirates in a joyful celebration of their much-loved music.
The spectacular city of Abu Dhabi is world renowned as a haven of luxury hotels and 5-star dining. In this issue we take you on a virtual tour of its latest gem, The St. Regis Abu Dhabi, inspired by the Golden Age of New York. It’s an Art Deco masterpiece, where you could easy picture The Great Gatsby hosting an opulent party, but we love how it also captures the spirit of Abu Dhabi culture as well through local artists and curators.
Elsewhere in these pages we present the very latest in haute horologie, absolute masterpieces of technology and design from the world’s leading makers of luxury timepieces. We’re particularly excited by the new watches from Breguet, Richard Mille and Roger Dubuis, and we think you’ll agree. As ever, we bring you all the hottest trends in men and women’s fashion, this time showcasing the Spring/Summer 2014 lines from the world’s top designers, as well as the must-have jewellery, accessories, and beauty breakthroughs to round out your luxury portfolio.
It features the world’s highest hotel suite, in the skybridge that connects the two Nation Towers, as well as celebrated UK chef Gary Rhodes’ first restaurant in Abu Dhabi. And we must say that, in our experience, General Manager Oliver Key is one of the finest hoteliers in the region, exemplifying the legendary St. Regis spirit of uncompromising levels of service.
We invite you to take some time to relax, sit back, and savour all the very best Abu Dhabi has to offer. We wish you a joyful summer.
Wishing the World: Peace, Prosperity & Progress in 2014
Jordana & Arnie W E L C O M E T O S I M P LY A B U D H A B I :
“Your Passport to Pure Luxury” Arnie S Hira – CEO & Founder Arnie.Hira@simplyabudhabi.com Jordana Imogen Lynch – Managing Director & Co-Founder Jordana.lynch@simplyabudhabi.com
Manoj S Hira – Director – info@nowaiting.co.uk Editor: Arnie S Hira Co-Editor: Jordana Imogen Lynch Copywriters: Jordana Imogen Lynch, Arnie S Hira
Management team Creative Director: Colin Statham - colin@simplyabudhabi.com Managing Editor: Kerry Smith - kerry@simplyabudhabi.com Beauty Editor: Sophie McMullan - sophie@simplyabudhabi.com Car Editor: Andy White - andy@simplyabudhabi.com Sub Editor: Caroline Stupnicka - caroline@simplyabudhabi.com
Like our Facebook page via http://www.facebook.com/simplyabudhabi Printers: United Printing & Publishing Abu Dhabi. Images: All photos used in Simply Abu Dhabi are by Getty Images/Shutterstock/GoRunway/ Distribution: Abu Dhabi Media Company Distribution Director: Raed Hamdan Distribution In charge: Muzammil Sulaiman Disclaimer: The publishers regret that they cannot accept liability for error or omissions contained in this publication, however caused. The opinions and views contained in this publication are not necessarily those of the publishers. Readers are advised to seek specialist advice before acting on the information contained in this publication, which is provided for general and entertainment use and may not be appropriate for the reader’s particular circumstances. The intellectual property and the ownership of trademarks are acknowledged. No part of Simply Abu Dhabi or any parts of the contents thereof may be duplicated or reproduced, saved, stored in a retrieval system or communicated/transmitted in any form without written permission of the publishers. An exemption is hereby granted for extracts used for the purpose of fair and reasonable review. Simply Abu Dhabi Limited HQ is Elizabeth House, Elizabeth Street, Manchester, M8 8JJ, United Kingdom.
Born in Abu Dhabi, Designed in Manchester, Distributed throughout the world.
ALLAN STANTON | +971 50 653 5258 | allan.stanton@gulfstream.com | GULFSTREAMG650.com
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*Flight duration based on NBAA IFR theoretical range at Mach 0.87 with eight passengers and four crew. Actual time will be affected by ATC routing operating speed, weather, outfitting options and other factors.
S I M P LY A B U D H A B I
Our spirit of excellence. Senator Chronometer Regulator
CONTENTS
Simply St Regis
Page 22
Simply Fashion
St. Regis Abu Dhabi – Scaling the heights of luxury A Haven of Serenity - The UAE’s First Remède Spa, At The St. Regis Abu Dhabi.
Simply Food
Page 50
Abu Dhabi Welcomes Its First Gary Rhodes Restaurant - Rhodes 44 A Timeless Gathering Place - Villa Toscano.
Simply Music
Simply Fashion For Him
Page 262
Balenciaga, Brioni, Dolce & Gabbana, Giorgio Armani, Hermés, Roberto Cavalli, Valentino, Versace, Vilebrequin, Z Zegna
Page 76
The Rolling Stones Burn Brighter Than Ever In Their Abu Dhabi Debut
Simply Beautiful
Simply Influential
Simply Cars
Page 314
Darcy By Parfums de Marly, Simply Philip B, Clarins
Page 82
Page 326
CEO121 Graff CEO Francois Graff Talks to Simply CEO Arnie S Hira.
Perfomance Spike - The Spyker, At Close Range With Range Rover, Aston Marton - Mean & Roofless.
Simply Time
Simply Wonderful
Page 90
Richard Lange, Audemars Piguet, Blancpain The 2014 Villeret, The Maison Boucheron, Cartier, GRAFF, Hublot IWC, Jaquet Droz, Panerai, Roger Dubuis, Richard Mille.
Simply Jewellery
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Libratone Loop, Hublot Sunglasses,The Digital Set by Karl Lagerfeld for S.T. Dupont, S.T. Dupont celebrates the Chinese New Year with its ‘Horse’ Limited Edition Series.
Page 148
Simply GRAFF Diamonds - Simply The Most Fabulous Jewels In The World, Van Cleef and Arpels, FABERGÉ, Boucheron, Tiffany, Cartier, Mouawad's, Messika Paris.
Senator Chronometer Regulator. Aesthetics, elegance and precision. An officially certified chronometer combined with the classic display of a regulator. The dominant position is taken by the minute hand at the center, while the other hands are smaller and positioned in off-center areas of the dial. To learn more about us, please visit www.glashuette-original.com. You can also download our iPhone application from the App Store.
Page 184
Atelier Versace, Balenciaga, Céline, Cruciani, Diane von Furstenberg, Dolce & Gabbana, Emilio Pucci, Giorgio Armani, Matthew Williamson, Mulberry, Roberto Cavalli, Stephane Rolland, TOD'S, Trussardi, Victoria Beckham.
Simply Abu Dhabi and Simply Abu Dhabi.com are intellectual property of Simply Abu Dhabi Limited, Elizabeth House, Elizabeth Street, Manchester, M8 8JJ. U.K. Fax: 0044 161 832 4566 / Skype: simplyabudhabi
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St. Regis Abu Dhabi – Scaling the heights of luxury Starwood’s homage to New York’s Gilded Age, where enduring legacy meets exceptional Arabian hospitality
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hose of us who love Abu Dhabi know it as a sparkling city of luxury and modernity, encapsulating the very best the world has to offer. In a way it’s not unlike New York in the 1890s, when innovation and economic growth made that city the most exciting place on the map. That’s why we were intrigued to learn that Starwood was launching its third St. Regis Hotel in the region, and its second in Abu Dhabi, one inspired by the legacy of New York’s golden age. The St. Regis brand created the definition of luxury hospitality on Fifth Avenue over a century ago, and has a rich history of delighting modern connoisseurs who desire the finest experiences imaginable. And when we heard The St. Regis Abu Dhabi would feature the world’s highest hotel suite, along with Chef Gary Rhodes’ first restaurant in Abu Dhabi, we couldn’t wait to experience it. The hotel is located at the iconic Nation Towers, in the heart of Abu Dhabi on the spectacular Corniche. The moment we stepped inside, the phrase ‘golden age’ suddenly took on new meaning, as a sumptuous golden light enveloped us, evocative of a bygone gilded era, as well as echoing the warm golden sands of the Corniche beachfront just outside the doors. The focal point of the spectacular lobby is a stunning double staircase that captivates you immediately upon arriving through the doors. The breathtaking sight of these elegant staircases sweeping around pillared columns, accented by delicate bronze banisters, puts you in mind of the refined mansions of the 1920s Jazz Age. It would be a perfect setting for the trendsetters of the Great Gatsby era, simply exuding sophistication and style. But the lobby is definitely pure Abu Dhabi as well. The elegant lines of Arabic design are on full display, as internationally acclaimed architects Hirsch Bedner Associates (HBA) worked with local curators and artists to ensure that the two styles were harmoniously blended throughout the hotel, giving it an authentic Middle Eastern identity. Renowned Emirati artist and jewellery designer Azza Al Qubaisi complemented the floor’s signature St. Regis diamond pattern with Arabic geometric motifs and flower designs, while Al Arjun Gallery helped showcase art illustrating the Abu Dhabi culture.
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The heights of luxury Our eyes barely had time to take all this in, however, as we were quickly welcomed with a warm greeting and shown to our room. As soon as we opened the door to our Grand Deluxe Suite, we were immediately struck by the floor-to-ceiling windows on the north and east sides, and their glorious view of the Corniche. The cool and modern feel of the space somehow hinted at both 19th century oldworld glamour and utterly timeless Arabic elegance, and gave a sense of high-end luxury combined with utmost comfort. But the real surprise came when we had a look at the suite’s bathroom: there, on a raised marble platform, we found a freestanding, immaculately white bathtub. Set against the backdrop of an enormous window overlooking the waterfront, it had the look of a luxury cruise liner on an azure blue ocean. Needless to say, we were delighted with the room and wondered what the others were like. In fact, we learned The St. Regis Abu Dhabi features 283 sumptuously appointed guest rooms, including 55 suites, all offering panoramic waterfront views of the Arabian Gulf. The luxurious interiors feature traditional Arabian elements, from the dentils on the crown moulding on the bedposts to the subtle pattern in soft gold carpeting. The classical-style furniture is made with polished dark walnut with sleek curves and ornate detailing. The walls and ceilings are clad in white stone mosaic, with exquisite carved marble mouldings at each doorway, corner and seam. The St. Regis Abu Dhabi also offers more than 4,800 square metres of state-of-the-art meeting and event space, making it a desired destination for both leisure and business travellers. As we’d heard earlier, the extravagant Abu Dhabi Suite is the world’s highest suspended hotel suite – and it’s hard to miss, as it’s loftily positioned 200 metres above the ground in the skybridge connecting the two Nation Towers. Offering magnificent panoramic views of the Arabian Gulf, the Corniche and the city skyline, the two-storey suite spans 1,120 square metres, and includes three bedrooms. The Grand Drawing Room takes centre stage – an intricate glass dome with Art Deco detailing and a dramatic bronze chandelier with cascading strands of crystals. The elaborate interiors feature 24-carat gold-leaf accents, leather wall tiles, jewel-toned velvet upholstered walls and intricate glass mosaic patterns. A graceful, curved staircase
The St. Regis Bar - Library
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leads to the master suite, which includes a private bedroom, library, lounge and dining area. The Abu Dhabi Suite also features a spa, movie theatre, kitchen and gym, and comes with private elevator access. It is truly unique, and truly breathtaking. Passing back through the lobby, we were enraptured by the centrepiece of the lounge, an exquisite tapestry that depicts a pearl diving scene paying homage to Abu Dhabi’s past, offset by lowhanging Arabian lantern-inspired chandeliers. We noted with delight that the blending of Arabian culture with Gilded Age aesthetics continued through the lounge, library and other public spaces, including open fireplaces in meeting areas, wooden panels with Arabian geometric motifs adorning the high ceiling, and Arabianstyle rugs and cushions.
Sophisticated pampering and world-class dining By the time we decided to stop for refreshments and plan the rest of our stay, the mood of unique glamour had been set. And now we were ready to see the full array of services and amenities on offer at the St. Regis Abu Dhabi as well. At the Tea Lounge, the celebrated British Chef Gary Rhodes was inspired to re-imagine afternoon tea. With twenty-five loose-leaf teas from around the globe and a truly remarkable selection of cakes, finger sandwiches, hors d’oeuvres and scones to choose from, we were spoilt for choice as we indulged in that great tradition of afternoon tea and perused the hotel’s many exclusive amenities. Would we visit one of the hotel’s 6 bars and lounges, 2 swimming pools or its private Nation Riviera Beach Club? The possibilities were endless, and there seemed to be something for every taste or interest. In the end, we opted for some pampering after a long day of travel: one of us for a haircut at the Hommage Gentleman’s Atelier, the first of its kind in the Emirates, setting a luxurious standard in men’s grooming; and the other for a manicure at Sisters Beauty Lounge, a haven for exquisite relaxation and top-to-toe treatment for the busy woman. Feeling refreshed and primed and ready for the evening, our thoughts turned to dinner. We’d heard that culinary excellence is a hallmark of The St. Regis Abu Dhabi experience and couldn’t wait to experience it for ourselves. Timeless cuisine, orchestrated to create delightful memories, is provided by eight culinary venues including Rhodes 44, which marks the first restaurant in Abu Dhabi by famed
Rhodes 44 - Private Dining Room
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Michelin-starred Chef Gary Rhodes, the iconic St. Regis Bar, which follows in the tradition of the St. Regis brand’s legendary New York hotel, and Villa Toscana, which serves regional specialties from Tuscany, Umbria and Emilia-Romagna in Italy. Guests can also enjoy unique dining experiences, tea and other fine beverages at Crystal Lounge, Cafe 44, The Tea Lounge, Azura and Spa Café. Over the course of our stay, we were privileged to enjoy meals at Rhodes 44 and Villa Toscana. You can read our full reviews in the following pages, but suffice it to say for now that we were overwhelmed by the level of exquisite tastes and prodigious culinary talent on display in these opulent settings. Another highlight of our stay, also covered more in-depth later in this issue, was a visit to the Remède Spa located in The St. Regis Abu Dhabi. After extending its legacy in cities such as New York, San Francisco, Aspen, Singapore and Mexico City, this is Remède Spa’s first location in the UAE, and it is truly a mystical sanctuary for guests looking to unwind.
Unique experiences, uncompromising service We were beyond intrigued to learn of a completely unique – and thrilling – opportunity. Starwood Hotels has partnered with Bentley Motors to provide signature luxury experiences to the UAE’s new generation of luxury travelers. The St. Regis brand has selected Bentley as the house fleet in hotels and resorts around the world, including both in Abu Dhabi, and together they recently offered the chance to experience the heritage and excellence of the brands in unparalleled style alongside spectacular views of the picturesque UAE landscape. The St. Regis and Bentley Al Ain Tour featured a drive through the immaculate Jebel Hafeet Mountain Road, which is considered as one of the greatest driving routes in the world. Similar such outings are planned for the future, and we will certainly be returning to participate! Throughout our stay, it was evident that the St. Regis brand has remained committed to an uncompromising level of bespoke service for all of its guests. Little touches were delivered flawlessly and at lightning speed by the signature St. Regis Butler Service. Born out of a need to fulfill every guest’s desire as if it were second nature, the St. Regis Butler Service has been a treasured hallmark for over one hundred years – and we could see why. All our preferences were known and understood in every detail; it was absolutely immaculate service. Exceptional service and outstanding staff have been an integral part of the St. Regis experience since the Gilded Age, and The St. Regis Abu Dhabi personifies this. We truly couldn’t have felt more looked after and catered to.
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Al Manhal - Entrance
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Bentley at St Regis
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A Haven of Serenity - The UAE’s First Remède Spa, at The St. Regis Abu Dhabi World-Renowned Remède Spa Focuses on Customised Treatments
Afternoon Tea
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f you’re looking for the ultimate in luxury relaxation, look no further than The St. Regis Abu Dhabi, the stunning home of the renowned Remède Spa, the first of its kind in the UAE. Known for its tradition of personalised spa treatments, Remède Spas are exclusive to The St. Regis Hotels and Resorts, and have attained acclaim in the world’s top addresses. Naturally, then, when we booked our stay at The St. Regis Abu Dhabi, we were excited to see what the well-known spa had to offer, and made a point to set aside time for some therapeutic pampering on our visit. As we were to learn, the moment you step through the doors and into the serene and peaceful setting, you begin to see why Remède has earned its reputation as a true haven of serenity. Upon arrival we were greeted warmly and offered an inviting selection of refreshments. As we were led to the well-appointed changing rooms, with separate facilities for ladies and gentlemen, the effects of the soothing environment were already taking hold, the stresses of daily life fading into the background. One of UAE’s largest spas at 3,000 square metres, the Remède Spa at The St. Regis Abu Dhabi feels like nothing less than a sanctuary of calm in the midst of our vibrant city. Once comfortably wrapped in the spa’s plush bathrobes, it was time to meet with the specialists who would be performing the services. It must be said that we were spoilt for choice when choosing treatments. The Remède Spa at The St. Regis Abu Dhabi offers 25 different bespoke facials, massages, body treatments, and spa packages for both ladies and gentlemen given by highly trained masseurs and aestheticians. What makes Remède special is that each treatment is customised to meet the specific needs of the guest. In our personalised consultations, our therapists took time to discuss our particular needs and concerns with us before our sessions began, then made recommendations about which treatments to choose. Soon we were each led to one of the spa’s eleven private treatment sanctuaries. All of the rooms at The Remède Spa at The St. Regis Abu are decorated with natural materials and earth tones, a palette that creates a
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warm and relaxing environment. Candles with rich aromas, plush throws, wooden floors and handcrafted tile mosaics, all combine to calm the mind and spirit. Opting for one of Remède Spa’s five-star facials, Jordana was delighted to learn her skincare treatment would incorporate luxurious products from Elemis, an award-winning British body care brand. Remède Spa is also the first in the UAE to offer real Oxyceutical® therapies, where pure oxygen is infused into the treatment to drive visible results. The effects were positively glowing. Meanwhile, I indulged in The Remède Customised Men’s Facial and Muscle-Ease massage, which was expertly administered to make every ache miraculously disappear. Sipping on refreshing cucumber water in the relaxation lounge afterwards, Jordana and I agreed that between the exemplary service, blissful treatments, and utterly relaxing environment, the entire experience surpassed all expectations and was a journey of rejuvenation well worth taking. There’s no question that the Remède experience exemplifies The St. Regis brand’s legendary commitment to impeccable service. Later, we had the chance to speak with Christian Kiefer, Director of Spa and Leisure at The St. Regis Abu Dhabi, who told us, “We recognise that our clients are individuals, each with particular needs and concerns, so there is no such thing as a ‘one-sizefits-all’ approach when administering bespoke treatments.” He confirmed, “Customised service is our overlying philosophy to ensure that guests achieve the results they seek.” As if a few hours at Remède weren’t enough to mystically melt all your stresses away, the spa also offers bespoke experiences that are the very height of indulgence and luxury. For a truly spectacular full day of relaxation that taps into the timeless traditions of the region, guests may enjoy “The St. Regis Splendour” treatment, which includes diamond micro-dermabrasion to resurface the skin, followed by an exfoliation of enzymes, body butters, and a mask. After a healthy lunch at the Spa Cafe, the session concludes with a stone massage. We were also intrigued to learn about the “Queen’s Ritual Evening,” a perfect ladies’ night out full of unique benefits, combining wellness and socialising for a circle of friends, with access to the spa facilities, relaxation lounge and ladies’-only exercise room. It’s clear that Remède Spa’s individualised treatments are ideal for both international business travellers looking to relax after a long week of work, and leisure travellers and residents who want to treat themselves to an unforgettable occasion. We can’t wait to go back.
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S I M PLY F O OD By Jordana Lynch R h o d e s 4 4 - V i l l a To s c a n a
Abu Dhabi Welcomes Its First Gary Rhodes Restaurant, as Rhodes 44 Opens at The St. Regis Abu Dhabi Michelin-Starred Chef Rhodes Masterfully Reinvents British Cuisine and Reinterprets Arabian Specialities at Rhodes 44
Gary Rhodes
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he opening of The St. Regis Abu Dhabi signals another exciting arrival: the first Gary Rhodes restaurant in the city. A highlight of a visit to the stunning new hotel is undoubtedly a meal at one of its signature restaurants, Rhodes 44. Offering guests an intimate venue for all-day contemporary dining, the restaurant provides the perfect setting for Chef Gary Rhodes’ masterful reinventions of classic British and European dishes, complemented by Arabian influences. Often referred to as “the chef's chef”, Rhodes, an Officer of the British Empire (OBE), is world-renowned for his tireless attention to detail and unparalleled devotion to the culinary arts. His relentless pursuit of perfection has placed him firmly at the forefront of today’s culinary world, while a history of stunning restaurants has won him a constellation of Michelin stars. Naturally, we jumped at the chance to sample the fabled cuisine of a chef with such a distinguished career. Guests can choose to dine inside the richly colourful restaurant or al fresco in the spacious garden terrace. For private celebrations or corporate affairs, Rhodes 44 also offers two private dining rooms, featuring ample lounge space for
Cauliflower, Mushroom & Truffle Macaroni Cheese
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Grilled Mushroom sticks
entertaining. While the outdoor terrace, overlooking the Corniche, certainly looked inviting, we chose the indoor dining room, and were promptly shown to a beautifully appointed table, offset by plush velvet banquettes and vibrant chairs, all in sumptuous velvet. Modern abstract paintings adorned the walls, complementing the colour palettes of the furnishings. It was the perfect setting to spark our appetites for the incredible meal to come. In keeping with the theme of The St. Regis Abu Dhabi, and indeed reflecting the city itself, the menu at Rhodes 44 continues the legacy of bridging Western and Arabian cultures, in a setting graced with local character. There seemed to be something to cater to the sophisticated tastes of any of Abu Dhabi’s diverse guests, from its large British community who want to savour favourite dishes from home, to the Middle Eastern guests who want to experience a European twist on their culinary traditions. For our starters, I opted for the Sweet Pea, Onion and Parmesan Risotto, choosing to add the optional seared
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At the Table Friday Brunch
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scallops. The balance of flavours was rich, but not overwhelming, and the risotto was cooked to creamy perfection. Jordana opted for the Watermelon, Feta and Almond Salad, and was delighted by the contrast of the succulent sweetness of the watermelon, the salty tang of the feta, topped with the crunch of almonds. A harmonious blend of colours, textures, and flavours, it was the perfect cool dish for a warm Abu Dhabi night. After such an auspicious start to the meal, we moved on to mains. For me, the Asian-inspired Seared Sumac and Pistachio King Prawns was the perfect choice. The aromatic dish, impeccably presented in a handsome silver bowl, was both visually appealing and uniquely delicious. Jordana had decided on the Pan-Fried Salmon with Flageolet Beans, which is one of Rhodes 44’s signature dishes – and with good reason. Although we were fully satisfied with our meals, we couldn’t resist trying some of the British-inspired desserts like Sticky Toffee Pudding and Strawberry Eton Mess. A perfect ending to a perfect meal. Rhodes 44 doesn’t only do innovative evening dining, it should be noted. Chef Rhodes has also launched a new Friday brunch concept at The St. Regis Abu Dhabi, once again featuring a menu of new creations and British favourites. While the meal is served family-style, ‘At
Tomato, Melon, Goats Cheese
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The Global Platform for the celebration of British Luxury Heritage
Watermelon Feta salad
the Table!’ Friday brunch also brings to life multiple food stations, including a live grill and a fresh seafood bar. Picture beef fillet, lamb cutlet, chicken sausage, and roast beef carved to order, or tables of juicy prawns, oysters and crab – all at the peak of freshness, there for you to customise the rest of your meal. Then gather with family and friends around the table to feast on British classics like goat’s cheese salad, Scottish haddock and potato stew, and rotisserie chicken with lime sour cream. And we have it on good authority that the grilled mushroom sticks and cauliflower, mushroom and truffle macaroni cheese are not to be missed! For an indulgent finish, an Ice Cream Trolley will pass by, or you can savour such classic British desserts as banoffee cheesecake. In the tradition of the St. Regis brand’s legendary commitment to exceptional experiences, the service at the restaurant is impeccable. We thoroughly agree with St. Regis Abu Dhabi General Manager, Oliver Key, who told us he believes ‘Rhodes 44 will quickly become Abu Dhabi’s premier destination for travellers, residents, and businesspeople seeking a relaxed yet refined dining experience in a captivating setting.’ After such an exemplary evening, we think
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Discover The Art of Romance at Burj Al Arab, where dreams become reality.
For more information or reservations, please contact us on: Suites: +971 4 301 7400 or BAAReservations@jumeirah.com Dining: +971 4 301 7600 or BAARestaurants@jumeirah.com Spa: +971 4 301 7365 or BAATalise@jumeirah.com www.burjalarab.com
A Timeless Gathering Place Villa Toscano Artisanal Italian dining at The St. Regis Abu Dhabi
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lready being buzzed about as perhaps the best Italian restaurant in Abu Dhabi, Villa Toscana at The St. Regis Abu Dhabi is a must-visit destination for a truly artisanal Italian meal. From the moment we arrived, we knew this would be a special evening. As we were warmly greeted at the door, our host told us that tables at both the outdoor terrace and inside the palazzo-style dining room had been prepared for us, and we were welcome to choose either. While the warm Tuscan colours of the dining room appealed greatly, and we noted with interest the communal chef’s table, where a large group was sharing a meal in the Italian tradition, the evening’s fine weather led us to choose dining al fresco in the fading light.
Stefano Viola - Chef de Cuisine Villa Toscana
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As we were seated on the terrace, we took in the magnificent view of the sunset glinting off the golden sands of the Corniche, and the jewel-like blue of the Arabian Gulf just beyond. To our delight, the food began arriving almost immediately – fragrant bread and aromatic olive oil dips to enjoy as we perused the appetising menu. Given the St. Regis brand’s passion for impeccable service, we were not surprised at all to find our server was warm, welcoming, and gifted with an incredible eye for detail. He took his time in going over the menu with us, explaining the dishes and making recommendations. He explained to us Villa Toscana’s philosophy of serving authentic, hand-crafted specialities from the various regions of Italy. Tuscany is represented with ‘chianina’ (Italian beef); Emilia-Romagna contributes with the finest cured meat; Romagna offers lamb, polenta, and pasta dishes; and a taste of Lombardy is experienced through its great variety of risottos and wonderful cheeses. The imprint of Sicily, Apulia, and Calabria can also be found on the menu, which shows traces of all of the rich culinary cultures of Southern Italy. The Chef de Cuisine is Stefano Viola, who hails from the Italian region of Tuscany, and
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previously served as Executive Chef at the Michelin Star Ristorante Re Di Macchia in Siena, Italy. He believes that respect for tradition is equal to respect for inventiveness and improvisation, and this is reflected fully in the menu, which represents a culinary path through Italy, incorporating its finest ingredients along the way. Villa Toscana’s fare also wonderfully complements the interior design, which bridges tradition and elegance to create the feel of visiting the inviting summer home of an Italian noble. With our virtual journey through Italy underway, we were ready to order from the mouth-watering menu. Jordana began with an elegant Caprese salad of Bufalo mozzarella, tomatoes, Tuscan extra virgin olive oil and 10 year old aged balsamic vinegar. A hallmark of Italian cuisine is the simplicity and freshness of the ingredients harmonising together to elevate the whole dish to the next level – and this refreshing salad was no exception. Having heard the praises of the Tuscan beef, I decided to try the Carpaccio of cured raw chianina, with rocket, radicchio, tomatoes, parmesan cheese and caramelised onion. I was not misled – the beef was exceptional, full of flavour and balanced perfectly by the acidity of the vegetables.
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For our mains, Jordana opted for the fillet of baked red snapper in pizza dough crust, served with young potatoes and taggiasca olives. Our server explained to us that the fish is first cooked for a few minutes, then baked "en croute"-style inside a golden pizza dough crust, a traditional way to prepare the dish in Tuscany. Imaginatively presented, and clearly made with respect for tradition, it tasted absolutely fantastic. For my selection, I wanted to try something from the charcoal grill, and ordered the rack of lamb, marinated in fresh rosemary and mint. Once again, the simple beauty of the fresh ingredients spoke for itself – the distinctive fragrance of rosemary mingling with bright taste of mint, all complementing the flavour of the succulent lamb, which was perfectly cooked to order. Meanwhile, we couldn’t help but notice that other diners were enjoying spectacularlooking brick oven pizzas, topped with all manner of fresh vegetables, seafood, or cured meats – and were thrilled to learn Villa Toscano’s pizzas are now available for takeaway. We’ll certainly be trying those on our next visit! To end the amazing meal, we shared a trio of desserts – a traditional tiramisu, an intensely flavourful truffle, and to cleanse the palate, a remarkable dark chocolate and orange sorbet – along with the classic Italian cappuccino. As we took our leave of this welcoming Tuscan villa, the host wished us a good evening, presenting us with a complementary box of biscotti. It was emblematic of the attention to detail and exemplary service that makes Villa Toscano feel like a magical night in Italy.
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S I M PLY M U S IC By Kerry Smith
“Not Fade Away” – Legendary stars The Rolling Stones burn brighter than ever in their joyous Abu Dhabi debut by Jordana Lynch
The Rolling Stones - Carnaby Street
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adies and gentlemen, they are back! The iconic British rock band the Rolling Stones launched their '14 On Fire Tour' with a very special oneoff show at the du Arena (Yas Island) in Abu Dhabi. Never having performed in the Middle East since their formation in 1962, the Stones wondrously appeared on stage ahead of schedule for their debut. Evergreen frontman Mick Jagger was agelessly lithe and energetic and the band kicked off proceedings with the perfect opener “Start Me Up” from their 1981 album “Tattoo You” and went on to deliver a faultless, technicolour performance that belied their age. Wearing a vivid crimson jacket, Mick Jagger, alongside Keith Richards, Ronnie Wood and Charlie Watts, stormed the stage to the delight of an ecstatic, energetic crowd of over 30,000. The set list was triumphantly filled to bursting with a high-octane mixture of much adored classics, and the entire spectacle was backed by a full band and, for the second encore, a choir. Jagger was supreme in his delivery from the outset, declaring "Marahaba!" after the opening song as he warmly greeted the fans and shared details of what he and his bandmates had been doing since touching down in Abu Dhabi. Comfortably working the crowd, the consummate and iconic lead singer went on to ask if there was anyone from Sharjah, Ajman, Ras Al Khaimah and consequently all the Emirates, further sealing a familiar connection with receptive and buoyant fans. Keith Richards also took centre stage at one point, the legendary guitarist singing two songs after swapping roles with Jagger, even announcing part way through to the enlivened crowd, "I'm happy to be here" followed, with typical light-heartedness, by "I'm happy to be anywhere!"
All four members of the band seemed supremely comfortable and relaxed with each other and, vitally, with the amassed throng of fans. At one point, former Rolling Stones guitarist Mick Taylor, who originally left the band back in 1976, appeared as a special guest and joined the band for two songs, before leaving the stage to a warm ovation, despite only being introduced as he was leaving the stage. Sure, a few mistakes were made, lines were missed and knowing glances exchanged both with each other and with the audience. But after playing together for over half a century, the warmth and palpable musical kinship between the distinct and highly diverse members of the band served only to add to the overall ambience of the performance. Any languishing thoughts that the Rolling Stones of 2014 might be a more sedentary, slower-paced band were utterly vanquished as an impossibly youthful 70 year-old Jagger moved fluidly around the stage with all the confidence and verve of a much younger man, his trademark swaggering walk as spellbinding as ever as he repeatedly paraded the long runway into the centre of the crowd. Although certainly different to how it sounded in the 1960s, with a deeper patina now and a different, richer tone, Jagger’s superb voice maintains the same liquid beauty and colloquial flare that has pushed the band to nearly 100 million worldwide album sales in the last six decades. In an incredible gesture to show their appreciation, the Rolling Stones gave fans in the UAE the opportunity to vote for a song for the band to play. The result of this poll was “Gimme Shelter” which first appeared as the opening track on the 1969 album “Let It Bleed”. However the best reactions of the night definitely came from “Paint It Black” and “Brown Sugar”, both causing glorious uproar from within the main set, and then the quintessential “Satisfaction” which proved to be an explosive, energetic and excellent closing song. Collectively the Rolling Stones’ opening night at Yas Island’s du Arena was simply ebullient. The band played an incredible two hour long set that bubbled over with energy, history and flamboyant, unreserved stagecraft. Mick Jagger’s endeavour in Arabic between songs, relentless zeal and unmistakable connection with the crowd was gloriously scintillating and deeply appreciated by the overjoyed fans. The Middle Eastern debut of one of the world’s iconic bands was already an historic moment in musical history, even before Mick, Keith, Charlie and Ronnie took to the stage. But when you then factor in the delivery a powerful, genuine, youthful set – as they most certainly achieved – that lifts an already delighted crowd into the realms of frenzy, then it creates a singular moment to savour. This tour rocks on through Japan, Macau, Shanghai, Singapore, and Australia before hitting New Zealand. It’s certain to be remembered as an absolute classic and as proof positive that these elder statesmen of rock and roll are still very much alive and kicking.
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S I M PLY I N F LU E N T I A L CEO 121 E XCLUSIVE: Simply Abu Dhabi CEO; Arnie S Hira talks to GRAFF CEO; Mr Francois Graff.
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Francois Graff Photographer : Shu Tomioka
Carved emerald and multishape diamond necklace (Diamonds 73.00 cts, Emeralds 151.53 cts)
An interview with Francois Graff, Chief Executive Officer at Graff Diamonds Simply Abu Dhabi: What was your first job? Mr. Graff: To further my technical knowledge, I studied at the Gemological Institute of America, joining Graff Diamonds in 1986 where I worked in the manufacturing and retail operations of the company gaining experience across several key areas. I was then appointed to the role of Chief Executive Officer in 2004.
He used to come home and share stories with us about what he’d sold that day. I was fascinated and it captured my imagination to go forward and to be a part of the business. I was very proud of my father and what he was doing, and I was in awe of the incredible clientele and famous diamonds. What are your main objectives and responsibilities as Chief Executive Officer? We are continuously expanding our business and building our brand through retail expansion, developing our infrastructure, designing and creating new product lines and launching the Graff Diamonds brand into new markets.
Although a little obvious, what particularly inspired you to get into the jewellery industry? From an early age, I was intrigued by the diamond business. My father was in the process of establishing Graff Diamonds and there was an influx of Middle Eastern clients in London, who as is customary to their culture, conducted all of their business in the evenings.
Francois Graff Photographer : Shu Tomioka
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What are your thoughts on Abu Dhabi & Dubai’s Luxury Jewellery & Watch sector? Different geographical areas do lean towards different styles to some degree. In the Middle East for example, we find that women typically prefer entire suites of Graff jewellery; necklaces, rings, earrings and bracelets featuring striking diamonds and coloured gemstones that are designed to be worn together. One thing that is consistent globally is that our clients are acutely knowledgeable when it comes to purchasing fine jewellery; they have a desire and demand for the highest quality diamonds and gemstones, designed in beautiful settings that showcase the stones to their highest degree.
What do you love most about your job as Chief Executive Officer? Diamonds are beautiful to look at - and they are also rare and difficult to come by. I’m very lucky; I’m in a business where people don’t come to us because they have to buy something or because someone forces them to do so – people come here out of emotion and love. It could be a man buying something for his wife, girlfriend or daughter - or a woman celebrating the fact that she feels great that day. It’s always for wonderful reasons that our clients come into one of our stores. Diamonds are one of the few luxury products that have an intrinsic value – you can pass them onto your family. They are an investment and a fabulous thing to own.
How many boutiques does Graff have planned for the region (MENA, GCC & KSA)? In what areas do you see the most opportunity for your business to grow in 2014 and what are your expansion plans for Graff? We currently have three locations in the UAE, including new stores at Sowwah Square in Abu Dhabi and The Dubai Mall, which both opened last year, plus a store located within the Burj al Arab.
Can you tell us a little more about Graff’s vertical integration? We’re vertically integrated from the ground right through to the retail level, so we’re involved in every aspect of the process, from sourcing and cutting diamonds to selling jewels through our global store network.
Our store expansion programme will continue with new openings in Riyadh, Zurich and across Asia in 2014. We are also expanding other areas of the business to support our retail expansion, including production, design, manufacturing and administration. Improving our business every day is a top priority and always has been.
Vertical integration is a very important part of our business. In the late 1990s we went into the production of diamonds, so we have facilities in South Africa and Botswana, where we polish around 20,000cts of rough diamonds every month. The best of those diamonds come to our facilities in the UK, where they are transformed into jewellery. The more we expand our retail operations, the more we require the vertical integration that provides us with the flexibility we need to grow our business.
Customer loyalty and sustainability is key. How does Graff engage with its existing clientele to maintain relations and how interactive are you in the digital world in finding new prospective clientele? As our business expands globally, we recognise the importance of technology in communicating with our clients. Our website has proven to be extremely effective in showcasing our beautiful jewels to new and existing clientele, even if they’re not able to access one of our stores.
What impact has Graff had on the global luxury jewellery sector? What do you believe is the secret behind creating a successful jewellery brand? The quality of stones we use and the level of craftsmanship imbued in every step of the jewellery making process – that’s what we have a worldwide reputation for and that’s what we work to uphold every day. We only use the finest quality stones available, based on colour, cut and clarity, and we are also known for our stones of especially rare size and important historical provenance. Our workshop and design studio are based in London, and every single piece is created by hand, from start to finish.
What’s the best career advice anyone has ever given you? My father has always encouraged me to follow my dreams.
The Graff brand is strong and it has become a household name for those in the upper echelons who want the very best products.
Who has been your inspiration in the industry? My father, Laurence Graff. If you weren't a jeweller, what would you be? I can’t imagine doing anything else. Lastly, our signature question: what do you think of the Simply Abu Dhabi Publication? Simply Abu Dhabi is an elegant and informative publication, which provides the perfect platform for us to ensure continued awareness for Graff’s fabulous jewels across the UAE.
Floral Graff watch, set with diamonds and cabochon sapphires
Francois Graff Photographer : Shu Tomioka
(Diamonds 2.53 cts, Sapphires 6.40 cts)
34.26 carat Fancy Vivid Yellow radiant cut diamond ring
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SEE NIRVANA AT THE DUBAI BOAT SHOW. AT 88 METRES YOU CANNOT MISS HER.
Nirvana was built at one of the world’s finest shipyards. She has a seven metre swimming pool that transforms into a dancefloor, a 3D cinema and more space, scope and style than anyone could possibly appreciate. Available for discreet purchase this incredible yacht will be at the Dubai Boat Show (March 4-8) for private, invitation-only inspection. To book an appointment please contact Alex Busher, ab@edmiston.com +377 93 30 54 44
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MEXICO CITY
SALE & PURCHASE NEW CONSTRUCTION CHARTER MANAGEMENT
S I M PLY T I M E By Kerry Smith
Time is perhaps the most precious luxury of all.
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ut just what is it? Time is a continuing sequence of events occurring in apparently irreversible succession – from the past through the present to the future. It is a measure of the durations and frequencies of events and the intervals between them. It is fundamental to being human. So it is no surprise that time has long been a major subject of study in religion, philosophy, and science – but defining it in a manner applicable to all fields, without circularity, has consistently eluded scholars. Diverse fields such as business, industry, sports, the sciences, music, dance, and theatre nevertheless all incorporate some notion of time into their respective measuring systems. Perhaps we can do no better than simple definitions of time, such as: "time is what clocks measure"; and "time is what keeps everything from happening at once”. Horology (from the Greek: ωρα, "hour, time" and λόγος, logos, "study, speech"), literally means the study of time. Fortunately, keeping track of time is simpler than defining and studying it, and a wide variety of devices have been invented to do just that, among them: clocks, watches, clockwork, sundials, clepsydras, timers, time recorders and marine chronometers. A&J take a look at the world’s finest time keepers and share their stunning visual beauty with you.
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window on the right-hand side of the 15 of the minute circle. All displays of the calendar switch forward instantaneously to assure unambiguous readings at all times. To keep the power for the switching process as low as possible, the required energy is gradually built up via a cam and then released abruptly at midnight. The ambitious precision goals come to the fore not only in the configuration of the moon-phase display mechanism, which consists of three solid white-gold discs, but also in its design. To achieve a vivid and aesthetically sophisticated image of the orbiting moon-phase display, they chose a special coating process. On the celestial disc, for example, interference effects absorb all of the non-blue colour spectra of the incident light. The result is a deep-blue surface studded with more than a thousand high-contrast, sharply contoured stars.
Richard Lange Perpetual Calendar “Terraluna” Regulator with orbital moon-phase display and 14-day movement
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he Richard Lange Perpetual Calendar “Terraluna” is a horological masterpiece that combines A. Lange & Söhne’s benchmark precision, inventiveness, and design competence.
Constant force for two weeks With two rugged mainsprings, the twin barrel delivers a power reserve of 14 days. When a spring barrel stores so much energy, special technical precautions must be taken to keep the rate of the watch stable during the entire powerreserve period, so an elaborate constant-force escapement is deployed. In ten-second intervals, it releases an identical portion of the available energy to the balance, thus assuring that the torque remains constant. The result is an unvarying amplitude and high rate accuracy from the first day to the
Featuring an orbital moon-phase display, a perpetual calendar with the Lange outsize date, a power-reserve of 14 days, and a constant-force escapement, this extraordinary time-keeping instrument represents the pinnacle of Saxon watchmaking artistry. The “Terraluna” is equally impressive on both sides. On the dial side of the 45.5-millimetre pink- or white-gold case, the watch stands out with the regulator layout of scientific precision watches. The movement side presents an innovative and useful orbital moon-phase display that depicts the constellation of the earth, moon, and sun.
Three circles for time The large minute circle is at the top of the dial; the smaller dials for the hours and seconds are beneath it, shifted towards the right and left. As was already the case with the Richard Lange Tourbillon “Pour le Mérite” presented in 2011, this dial design was inspired by a great historic role model: Johann Heinrich Seyffert’s 1807 regulator from the world-famous timepiece collection of the Mathematics and Physics Salon. With his ingenious designs, Seyffert helped transform Dresden into a hub of precision horology in the early 19th century. A great advantage in precision pocket watches, the regulator format was appreciated not only by time-keeping services and observatories, but also by watchmaking manufactories where it was used for synchronising new timepieces. This is because it provided an accurate display of the minutes and seconds.
last. At the 6-o’clock position, a power-reserve indicator in the form of a circumferential ring tells the owner when the time has come to replenish the movement with fresh energy via the winding crown.
The pursuit of supreme precision Since 2003, Lange has been one of the few masters of balance spring technology, which assures the utmost precision. In addition to the balance spring, the remontoir spring of the constant-force escapement is also made in-house for the new L096.1 manufacture calibre of the Richard Lange Perpetual Calendar “Terraluna”. The indexless oscillator beats with a frequency of 21,600 semi-oscillations per hour. Further Lange-style quality hallmarks include the handengraved balance cock and a lavishly handdecorated movement. They are impressive manifestations of the manufactory’s quest for precision down to the very smallest detail.
Four windows for eternity Beneath the characteristic Lange outsize date – the first one in a model of the Richard Lange watch family, incidentally – two smaller apertures show the day of the week on the left and the month on the right, so that the calendar displays can be easily read at a glance. The calendar is mechanically programmed to correctly display the different durations of the months in a year as well as those in leap years until 2100. The leap-year indication is located in a small round
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Millenary Minute Repeater 47x42 The new Millenary Minute Repeater in pink gold is a visual, technical and above all, aural delight
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ontinuing the line of such exceptional pieces as the Tradition d’Excellence No. 5, the MC12 and the Carbon One, Audemars Piguet introduces the Millenary Minute Repeater 47x42. Cased in pink gold for the first time, this complicated watch – like its illustrious forebears – is an exquisite blend of technical sophistication, innovative materials and watchmaking savoir-faire – featuring, of course, that most romantic of complications: the minute repeater. Audemars Piguet made its first minute repeater wristwatch in 1892 – a masterpiece of miniaturisation. Much like every great invention, the minute repeater was born of necessity, long before mankind enjoyed the convenience of electricity, solving an apparently simple yet long-standing conundrum: how to tell the time in the dark.
Ever since its founding in 1875, Audemars Piguet has marked the art of the striking minute repeater, long regarded as a significant part of the company’s heritage. It made the first minute-repeater wristwatch in 1892, and Audemars Piguet became one of the first manufacturers to revive the art of the minute repeater in the late 1980s after it had been overlooked for decades. What is therefore a long-standing tradition is now continued in the new Millenary Minute Repeater in pink gold: an exceptional, hand-wound wristwatch with an oval case and three-dimensional architecture that complements a sophisticated movement featuring Audemars Piguet’s own escapement, double balance spring, striking mechanism and gongs. Furthermore, the repeater mechanism’s winding system has been purpose-built for this watch, with the sliding trigger at 9 o’clock as usual, but the striking barrel at 2 o’clock.
The result is a feast for the eyes, as well as the ears Its distinctively shaped case and enamel subdials beg closer inspection of the remarkable mechanism ticking within, regulated by Audemars Piguet’s proprietary ‘AP Escapement’. Inspired by the work of the French 18th century clockmaker Robert Robin, the assembly combines the high efficiency of a direct-impulse escapement with the reliability of a traditional, Swiss lever escapement, while eliminating the need to lubricate the pallet stones. What’s more, the escapement’s regulating organ is composed not just of one balance spring, but of two placed top to tail. This flat, opposite-facing double spring system ensures automatic compensation for potential poising flaws and eliminates the need for the ‘overcoil’ terminal curves. All in all, the double balance spring arrangement, combined with the single impulse mode of action on the balance wheel, ensure reduced perturbation to the regulating organ and therefore more efficiency and precision.
Dynamic three-dimensional architecture Such an exceptional mechanism deserves, of course, to be shown off. The oval-shaped Millenary case of brushed pink gold and polished pink gold bezel frame an openworked dial, revealing a wealth of hand-bevelled edges and interior angles, as well as the overall anthracite-coloured, galvanic treatment. Note, too, the beautifully ‘blued’ gong of the minute repeater, which is visible from the top as it curves elegantly around the circumference of the case – truly a calling card of Audemars Piguet’s complication maestros.
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bezel, compared with 45 minutes for steel, calling upon all the savoir-faire of the watchmakers.
Royal Oak Concept
Similarly, the titanium used for the case middle and sapphire surround is ultra strong, comfortable to wear and twice as light as steel – advantageous for a watch of such generous 44m proportions – while the inner flange circling the dial is made of lightweight aluminium, hardened by anodisation.
G M T To u r b i l l i o n 4 4 An exceptional timepiece for avant-garde collectors and connoisseurs
This daring cocktail of ceramics and metals is just the latest chapter in Audemars Piguet’s ongoing quest to push the envelope when it comes to materials science – a quest that started over 40 years ago with the Manufacture’s most daring move of all, using steel in a luxury watch for the very first time.
A technical tour de force
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right, white, sleek and powerful, the Royal Oak Concept GMT Tourbillion brooks no compromise, either in technical or aesthetic terms. Its sculpted titanium case middle and integrated rubber strap combine with a white ceramic bezel to frame the highly architectural array of tourbillon carriage and second ‘GMT’ time-zone display inside – case and movement in perfect harmony. New for 2014, however, is the flash of pure white: an intricately machined upper bridge made of white ceramic – only possible now, thanks to Audemars Piguet’s ongoing advances in materials science.
An impressive feat in its own right, the Royal Oak Concept GMT Tourbillon’s handwound Calibre 2930 features a twin barrel ensuring 10-day power reserve, tourbillon and second time-zone ‘GMT’ display. Its timekeeping is regulated by a 3Hz escapement, rotating inside a tourbillon carriage every 60 seconds, compensating for the effects of the Earth’s gravity when the watch is oriented vertically for any length of time. Amazingly, the tourbillon cage comprises 85 components, yet is only 0.45g in weight.
The Royal Oak Concept was first unveiled in 2002 as an avant-garde, 30th Anniversary tribute to Audemars Piguet’s legendary octagonal Royal Oak – the world’s first luxury watch in stainless steel, designed by Gérald Genta. His revolutionary design codes have persisted throughout the Concept series right through to the Royal Oak Concept GMT Tourbillon of 2011, with its ultra-light, ultra-resistant titanium case and black-ceramic octagonal bezel, push pieces and crown.
An experienced watchmaker spends three days assembling its components, including two days to install the cage, while the full workings will require over two weeks of work. Each component is then bevelled, polished, assembled and balanced by hand. Audemars Piguet is still one of the few manufactures to have mastered all the intricacies of this complication. Audemars Piguet’s proprietary parallel double barrel system ensures the Royal Oak Concept GMT Tourbillon runs for as many as 10 days before it needs to be manually wound again, generating a constant force during some 237 hours of autonomy, enhancing timekeeping precision.
This year’s Royal Oak Concept GMT Tourbillon features a white ceramic bezel, crown and pushpieces instead of black, all heightening the contrast with the titanium case middle. However, in typical, trailblazing style, the Manufacture has gone one step further and incorporated ceramic into the movement itself, replacing the blackened upper bridge of the Calibre 2913 with white ceramic. As a result, the new Calibre 2930 is visually transformed, its dazzling, hourglass-shaped bridge further enlivened by the double symmetry of the tourbillon bridges and GMT display.
The Royal Oak Concept GMT Tourbillon also features a selection indicator mechanism. According to the position of the winding stem, the hand positioned on the dial at 6 o’clock indicates the function selected. The H(Heure), N (Neutre) and R (Remontage) indications correspond to the three positions of the winding stem, meaning time-setting, neutral and winding respectively.
White ceramic is about nine times harder than steel, meaning manufacture is a complex and lengthy process. Ceramic gives an exceptionally smooth appearance and displays extreme resistance to wear, but as a composite material that can be only scratched only by diamonds, it represents a daunting technical challenge. To give an idea, it takes around 8 hours to make the Royal Oak Concept GMT Tourbillon’s
Once again demonstrating Audemars Piguet’s deeply entrenched knowledge of hightech metals and materials, and taking them to the next level of innovation and aesthetics, the Royal Oak Concept GMT Tourbillon is an avant-garde masterpiece of horology.
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ew for 2014, the Royal Oak Offshore Chronograph’s signature feature is the sumptuous pink gold case and dial, which positively glow in contrast to the black alligator strap, ceramic pushpieces and chronograph subdials. The handstitched ‘large square scale’ strap sits flatter on the wrist than the previous Hornback strap, but the watch’s presence is a still a mighty one. As an evolution of its ‘26170’ predecessors, the ‘26470’ Royal Oak Offshore Chronograph Collection maintains the original 42 mm ‘supersize’ of 1993, yet moves things on for the first time. The new references are shown in 18-carat pink gold, and are distinguished by a more technical, sculpted aesthetic, as is notably visible in the design of the pushpiece guards, the crown and the pushpieces themselves. Black ceramic replaces rubber on the crown and pushpieces, which have been resized to create a more contemporary look. The bezel is in satin-brushed and polished stainless steel or 18-carat pink gold, secured by eight polished steel hexagonal screws – the bold, immutable signature of the Royal Oak Offshore collection.
Royal Oak Offshore Chronograph 42 The evolution of groundbreaking timepieces
Every dial is decorated with the Royal Oak Offshore’s distinctive ‘Méga Tapisserie’ pattern. The more sculpted and refined hour-markers lend an additional touch, while the new facetted hands with polished decorative fillets and luminescent coating make the dial radiant and ensure enhanced readability.
A polished white- or pink-gold appliqué presents the brand’s initials, along with the ‘Audemars Piguet’ logo transferred in white on a raised cartouche. The dial colour is echoed on the date disc in order to accentuate the overall uniformity. Attached to the 26470 collection’s stainless-steel or gold case is either a rubber or alligator strap, featuring a broader taper and a new pin buckle, both of which ensure greater comfort and userfriendliness.
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The 2014 Royal Oak Offshore Collection moves the game on once more. The engraved 22-carat gold oscillating mass is now visible through the sapphire caseback, providing a window onto 139 years of horological mastery.
Royal Oak Offshore 37 A singular and compelling feminine vision, crafted to express a woman’s spirit and confidence
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rafted in stainless steel with all the vigour and character that forged the DNA of the original men’s model, the 2014 version of the ladies’ Royal Oak Offshore presents a leaner, more feminine profile. Originally designed as the ultimate male chronograph for extreme sports, the Royal Oak Offshore, a direct descendant of the iconic Royal Oak, carved a niche for itself with its preeminent sports character and powerful architectural features. The robust case, engineered to protect the movement from magnetic waves, the large hexagonal screws and the prominent pushers and crown have all become distinct design features of the Royal Oak Offshore family. Since 1883, Audemars Piguet has been developing timepieces for exceptional women who look further than beauty and expect that a watch should be statement in itself. As a newcomer to the Royal Oak Offshore 37 mm collection for ladies – and available in both steel and pink gold versions – this new piece retains the bold design features of the original men’s chronograph revisited in a slimmer, more sophisticated case. The alliance of stainless steel, white rubber and the 32 brilliant-cut diamonds that animate the bezel of the new Royal Oak Offshore produces an exceptional tactile and visual experience. In the pursuit of contrasting textures and depth, the hallmark ‘Mega Tapestry’ pattern with its square block motifs has been encircled by a new chapter ring decorated with curly snailed patterns, while the white rubber-clad crown and strap add a dose of contemporary feminine charm. Practical, resilient and refined, the Royal Oak Offshore is an ideal everyday companion that moves exceptionally well between work and play.
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Royal Oak Chronograph 41 A marriage of high glamour and practical sensibilities
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udemars Piguet challenges traditions once again. Fusing a legendary functionality with a sophisticated high jewellery finish, the Royal Oak Chronograph – a sports performer in the Audemars Piguet family since its debut in 1997 – appears as a stunning haute joaillerie model for the first time. Its 41 mm case responds to women’s demands for larger, more visible and performance-oriented watches – timepieces that combine the glamour of a high jewellery piece with practical considerations such as legibility, smooth and easy to manipulate chronograph functions and the latest technological innovations. Every surface of this pink gold chronograph, from the case to the dial, to the lugs and bracelet sparkles with brilliant-cut diamonds. With 966 IF (highest clarity) diamonds, for a total of approximately 7,84 carats, the superlative work of Audemars Piguet’s gem-setters is on full display. Even the tiniest surfaces, like the pink gold wedges that isolate the crown from the pushers, have been beautifully set alight with diamonds. The formidable 41 mm case, equipped with a selfwinding movement – calibre 2385 – powers the functions of chronograph, hours, minutes, small seconds and date. With a power reserve of 40 hours, the screw-locked crown and pushers of the Royal Oak Chronograph ensure water resistance to 50 metres. The silver-toned chronograph counters, designed to stand out against the canvas of diamonds, ensure clear, easy to read elapsed times. To enhance legibility, the peripheral ring that contains the applied pink gold indices has also been crafted in silver and the hands treated with a luminescent coating to facilitate readings in the most adverse light conditions. The Royal Oak Chronograph truly captures the spirit of the woman who wears it.
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Selfwinding Royal Oak 41
The 2014 Villeret model by Blancpain
Designed for the woman who understands the value of time
Absolute elegance
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he Royal Oak 41 mm is a watch for women who appreciate the contrast of an iconic, legendary sportswatch adorned with a scintillating mantle of diamonds. Framed in a sensuous pink gold case, this breathtaking timepiece is masterfully gemset with 166 diamonds.
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he ‘Villeret’ collection, named after the birthplace of the Manufacture, captures Blancpain’s underlying principle of giving absolute priority to authenticity and respect for tradition. It now welcomes a new self-winding threehand watch with date display, featuring a remarkably understated Grand Feu enamel dial.
An elegant blend of the timeless and daring, the Selfwinding Royal Oak features a distinctive octagonal bezel, held in place by its hallmark hexagonal headed screws, spotlighted by a series of brilliant-cut diamonds expertly set between each screw.
The use of Grand Feu enamel reaffirms Blancpain’s deep-felt attachment to historical watchmaking skills. This magnificently stable material that maintains its radiance indefinitely is particularly suited to adorning a watch with such a classic aesthetic. Crafting it involves applying several successive layers of enamel that are fired at temperatures of over 1000°C. The enamel-painted numerals also undergo the stern trial of the furnace. After each operation, the dial is carefully examined and manually touched up, since the procedure is rendered even more complex in this instance by the cambered shape of the dial. Its finishing calls for the distinctive expertise that Blancpain offers.
The integrated lugs that soften the geometry of the case have also been set alight with diamonds of differing sizes, as has the folding clasp. In all, 511 grade IF diamonds (4.16 carats) decorate the external surfaces. The diamond pavé dial continues the opulent theme and has been set with 345 diamonds (1.07 carats) arranged in a circular pattern, interrupted at 3 o’clock to accommodate the date window.
As the light plays across it, the Grand Feu enamel dial gives a subtle nod to tradition by revealing the toneon-tone “JB” logo engraved between the numerals IV and V, VII and VIII. This is the secret signature with which enamellists historically initialled their works.
The hands, treated with a luminescent coating for maximum legibility, circle the dial with its applied pink gold hour markers and minute indices.
Radiating an unmistakable aura of elegance, this new model is immersed in the aesthetic of the Villeret collection with its red gold round double-stepped case and slightly hollowed sage leaf-shaped hands. The dial is enlivened by a date display at 3 o’clock, as well as a central seconds hand. The sapphire crystal case-back provides an opportunity to admire the delicate interplay of the decorative effects, featuring Côtes de Genève on the movement bridges and a honeycomb pattern on the oscillating weight.
As beautiful within as without, a proprietary self-winding manufacture movement – calibre 3120 – powers the hours, minutes, central seconds and date functions. Designed for women who appreciate the value of time – and the time invested in the craftsmanship of the watch – the transparent sapphire crystal case back allows for a full view of the automatic movement with its gold 22carat axe-shaped rotor.
This mechanical self-winding model is driven by inhouse Calibre 1335, its beauty matched by a remarkable 8-day power reserve, demonstrating the expertise of the Manufacture and which will doubtless be appreciated by passionate connoisseurs.
The choice of strap, crafted from grey alligator leather, provides a striking contrast to the pink gold case and gives the watch a unique metallic feel, very in vogue this year.
Fitted with a chocolate-toned alligator leather strap, this new 42mm-diameter watch is a powerful new addition to the iconic Villeret collection.
A robust yet glittering showstopper, the Selfwinding Royal Oak is a paradox – like the woman who wears it. 104
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The Maison Boucheron: T A History of Luxury & Timelessness
he first jeweller on the fabled Place Vendôme, the Maison Boucheron opened its doors in Paris under the arches of the Palais Royal in 1858. From the very beginning, founder Frédéric Boucheron set the tone: this international adventurer travelled all over the world in order to acquire the very best stones. He was a forerunner in terms of style and technique, and his inventions soon won prizes at the World’s Fairs. He was a man on a continual quest for excellence. For him, every jewel was a work of art and every watch should be a jewel. True to this spirit of distinction, guided by the search for elegance and modernity, Boucheron has established a reputation for more than 150 years as the jeweller of light in the “City of Light”. Today, it is the only jewellery Maison whose workshops still overlook the famous Place Vendôme. None other has succeeded in winning the favour of both royalty and that of clients with more audacious and carefree tastes. Boucheron is known and renowned for the quality of its stones and the painstaking care and attention it lavishes on highlighting them, for passing on its savoir-faire from generation to generation, for its ongoing quest for innovation with the best craftsmen of its age, and for the technical prowess of its jewels and timepieces.
Ajourée Frog
Crazy Jungle Hathi
Crazy Jungle Hathi Diamonds
Ajourée Chameleon
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perfect assembly, the Crazy Jungle Hathi timepiece harmoniously blends a natural stone mosaic with a diamond or multi-coloured gem stone setting. At its centre, the Crazy Hathi Elephant – a colourful symbol of wisdom – invites you to travel, as it leads a majestic parade of vibrant hues and an exceptional horological tradition.
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gainst a white mother-of-pearl sky set with diamonds, the Crazy Jungle Hathi Diamonds timepiece is more reminiscent of the extraordinary clarity of the imperial city of Udaipur, christened “The White City”. Here, all is light: the white gold case, diamond paved setting, mother-of-pearl dial and matte white alligator strap.
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The Crazy Hathi Elephant heralds an extraordinary watchmaking complication developed exclusively for the Maison Boucheron: the ‘Seconde Folle,’ or ‘Crazy Second’, in which a disk replaces the usual seconds hand, giving a stylish new dimension to time.
With the Crazy Hathi elephant adorned in its majestic set of diamonds, the painting resembles a breathtaking view over Udaipur or a snowy landscape. The 42mm case becomes the circular backdrop over which the magnificent elephant sprays a glittering waterfall of diamonds from its stately trunk.
playful creation in this mischievous, companionable collection, the Ajourée Frog is a whimsical timepiece.
Like the chameleon, it belongs to the Maison Boucheron’s enchanted bestiary. Straight out of a fairytale, the frog is a lucky charm, a messenger. Sitting next to the lotus flower, the frog seems poised to jump off the case to embrace the watch’s sparkling white lacquer dial. The fruit of painstaking work, the multicoloured paved setting and the extraordinary pink ombré effect reflect the changing glow of light on the animal’s “skin” and the subtle radiance of the petals. More than 120 diamonds, 150 pink sapphires, 30 rubies and three tsavorites adorn this jewellery composition. The stone setting on white gold further intensifies this extremely subtle play of colour tones in which the lotus converses with the frog as if in a fable. The Boucheron Ajourée jewellery watches create a subtle play on light thanks to the alliance of open-work gold and sparkling precious stones. Sculpted with volume and featuring exquisite detail, they offer a watchmaking landscape that is luminous and dream-like. Available in store at Mall of the Emirates and The Galleria at Al Maryah Island, the exquisite Ajourée Frog jewellery watch can now be your talisman of joyful hours.
Sparkling like stars against a night sky, the gems of the Crazy Jungle Hathi Purple in white gold present a plethora of diamonds, amethysts and pink sapphires flowing over the case, which itself is highlighted by a violet karung strap. The fabric against which the Crazy Second disk stands out is incredibly beautiful, with its sculpted pink rosette with violet and light pink drops. Like the pigments in a painting, each stone has its role too. In the pink and violet ombré paved setting, white diamonds concentrate the light. The effect is enough to transport you to Jaipur, Rajasthan’s Pink City, the epitome of vibrant colours and magnificence.
Once again the timepiece features the unique Crazy Second disk against the openwork carpet background, which is rendered in a white so icy it’s nearly blue. A mechanical movement with automatic winding from the Girard-Perregaux manufacture (GP 4000) is complemented by finishings and additional Crazy Second module, designed exclusively for the Maison Boucheron. With a power reserve of approximately 40 hours, the Crazy Jungle Hathi Diamonds offers waterresistance of up to 50 metres. The watchmaking landscapes of the Crazy Hathi Jungle collection pay tribute to Boucheron’s long-held tradition of creating timepieces for ‘only the joyful hours’, expressing all of the Maison’s savoir-faire and mastery of artistic craftsmanship.
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orn of the Maison Boucheron’s long-standing fascination with collector’s animals, the Ajourée Chameleon watch is the very embodiment of talisman jewellery. It confers symbolic and secret powers on its wearer: the magic of metamorphosis, the talent of being able to adapt to any environment, the art of being oneself and always in harmony with the world around you. Hinting at the chameleon pendants, hoop earrings and rings, this enchanted animal is a favourite of the Maison, offering protection to the wearer. Shimmering, vivid and free, it unfurls and wraps itself around the watch’s case. It seems to curl upon the hand; it shines with its skin and changing lustre, fashioned from over 100 diamonds, over 100 tsavorites, over 100 sapphires, and almost ten different colours of stone. They contrast with its single ruby, in the guise of an enlightened eye. The white ‘snow’ effect on the sparkling lacquer dial with the white brushed satin strap set off this rainbow display of gems to perfection. The stones of various sizes, paired with the sculpted branches and the jeweller’s openwork, highlight the animal’s generous forms, rounded lines and lively character. The Ajourée Chameleon watch holds a vibrant, spellbinding fascination even within the smallest detail.
Ballon Bleu de Cartier - Traditional expertise at the service of Fine Watchmaking
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he Ballon Bleu de Cartier 39mm Flying Tourbillon, with a blue enamel dial, elegantly celebrates the very essence of the colour blue and elevates it to the status of an absolute value. The omnipresent deep blue of the enamel dial affirms this watch’s timeless signature trait. A watchmaking classic since 2008, the Ballon Bleu de Cartier with a flying tourbillon calibre only existed in a 46mm diameter version. In its new 39mm size, the Ballon Bleu de Cartier Flying Tourbillon is defined by a unique elegance. Its dimensions will appeal to men looking for a compact watch with a modern Tourbillon and which, in addition to its soft lines, is characterised by great comfort.
Enamelling: precious expertise Boasting an exceptional dial in deep-blue enamel, the Ballon Bleu de Cartier 39mm Flying Tourbillon watch follows in the tradition of dials and clocks crafted in enamel at the beginning of the 20th century. This craft involves first creating a radiating motif in guilloché on a disc of 18-carat white gold, which is then covered with several layers of translucent enamel.
Cartier: Elegance & Creativity
The enamel starts out as powder, the texture, composition and colour of which must be carefully chosen to ensure an even and pleasing appearance after firing. Control of the temperature during firing affects the entire process. This phase is all the more delicate because the dial has a large opening through which the flying tourbillon carriage is visible. Once it has cooled down, the dial displays a radiant interplay of matter and luminosity, between the transparency of the layer of enamel, the texture of the guilloché and the refinement of its blue hue.
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The Ballon Bleu de Cartier 39mm Flying Tourbillon watch is certified "Poinçon de Genève". Its calibre 9452 MC is assembled and adjusted in the Cartier workshops in the very heart of Geneva, according to the strictest criteria of excellence.
Cartier's achievements in Fine Watchmaking are the fruit of constant innovation at the service of highly distinctive aesthetics. Its past as an inventor and designer has given rise to a style that favours volume and shapes. The same drive can be seen in its technical concepts, which have enabled Cartier to revolutionise the representation of time, while adhering to the Manufacture's highest standards.
artier’s creative approach for 2014 is a celebration of the Maison’s style in Fine Watchmaking.
What is Cartier style? It’s a question of elegance and balance. It’s constant research, supported by technical expertise, and a drive to redefine watchmaking conventions, whether by reinventing traditional complications such as the perpetual calendar or by transforming the timeless Tank model.
Strictly for watch aficionados who will see it for the rare object it is, the Ballon Bleu de Cartier 39mm Flying Tourbillon watch with a blue enamel dial celebrates Cartier's unique style with elegance and creativity. 108
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For the 2014 edition of the Salon International de la Haute Horlogerie, Cartier expresses the excellence of its craftsmanship with the launch of innovative timepieces bearing the Maison's creative seal.
Weightless circles : the Tank Louis Cartier Sapphire Skeleton watch
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he distinctive identity of the Cartier Tank watch has long been popular with a free-spirited, elegant clientele. Now, this weightless work of art perpetuates the Maison's heritage by capturing the magic of two expressions of Cartier style: the elegance of Tank aesthetics and the uniqueness of skeletonised transparency. A bold and refined creative statement, the Tank Louis Cartier Sapphire Skeleton watch celebrates the quintessence of the Cartier watchmaking style . With its attachments incorporated into the case in alignment with the strap, the Tank watch created in 1917 is part of Cartier's heritage of shaped watches. Timeless, yet ahead of its time, this great classic has conveyed a real sense of modernity from the outset. Transparency, meanwhile, has been an integral part of the Maison's style for decades, from the first mystery clocks created in 1912 to the skeletonised movements of the 1930s and the most recent Fine Watchmaking creations. The skeletonisation of the Tank Louis Cartier Sapphire Skeleton watch introduces new creative horizons with an innovative movement that possesses a transparent plate partially created from sapphire crystal. This clear material, commonly used for the crystal in watch cases, is here diverted from its usual purpose and is the subject of a pending patent. Taken back to the very essence of its function, the calibre 9616 MC is made up of adjoining circles of metal that appear to be suspended and trace the shape of the movement. A circular bridge gives structure to the circles and the harmony of the Tank Louis Cartier Sapphire Skeleton watch. An abstract and contemporary work of art, the Tank Louis Cartier Sapphire Skeleton represents the subtle link between form and technical skill.
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THE GRAFF CLASSIC B U T T E R F LY WATC H The outline of a butterfly has been depicted artistically throughout many different cultures over the course of history. One of the earliest references dates back to the Egyptian era, when the image of a butterfly was frequently carved into architectural structures, used in art and incorporated into intricate jewellery pieces. Continuing this tradition, the butterfly was first incorporated into Graff Diamonds’ jewellery as part of its enchanting Classic Butterfly Collection. Now, perfectly fusing the timelessness of a diamond with Swiss watchmaking expertise, comes Graff’s latest horological evolution, the Graff Classic Butterfly watch. A beautifully feminine arrangement of four pear shape diamonds traces the outline of an exquisite butterfly gently resting upon the 26mm watch face. Set on a simple yet elegant black satin strap, the Graff Classic Butterfly watch is available in two striking designs with the butterfly motif positioned at 6 o’clock and 12 o’clock, respectively. Limited to just 300 pieces, it is also available in vibrant gemstone versions featuring the finest sapphires, rubies and emeralds, as well as an alldiamond version.
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Spirit of the Big Bang
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tarting 2014 with a big bang, Hublot unveils one of the great new pieces announced for the year. It is the aptly named ‘Spirit of the Big Bang’ heralding a new universe of tonneau-case timepieces. And indeed, it embodies the spirit of Hublot’s Big Bang portfolio. It features the Big Bang codes with its six Hshaped titanium screws through the watch bezel, the lugs on either side, the two strap attachments, Hublot's famous hands and the SuperLuminova™-filled baton indices offering superb legibility, and the overmoulded rubber screw-down crown with the iconic letter H adorning its profile. It is a Big Bang which has been designed with a unique case construction employing an intelligent "sandwich" principle which – playing with materials and colours – enables an unlimited number of combinations; the design of the case middle with its satin-finished sides and micro-blasted areas gives the timepiece a sophisticated look, making it one of a kind in the Big Bang range. It also employs the same principle of the fusion of materials with titanium, ceramic, King Gold (18 K gold with 5% platinum which gives it a deeper red colour, and which is, in fact, more precious), along with rubber and alligator skin. Here we find Hublot's pure DNA, but in a different, brand new form. This is the aptly named Spirit Of Big Bang: Hublot has unveiled a brand-new Big Bang with a tonneau case, previously used only for its specialedition ‘Masterpiece’ collection. The beating heart of the piece is the new Hublot HUB4700 movement, redesigned through close collaboration between Hublot and Zénith teams; based on a Zénith El Primero chronograph "chassis" with date (frequency 5 Hz, 36,000 beats per hour, 278 components, 31 jewels), this movement has historically been regarded by purists as one of the best Swiss chronographs ever developed. Given the full Hublot makeover in terms of its architecture and finishes, this automatic skeleton movement with a 50-hour power reserve can be appreciated thanks to its sapphire dial, which reveals the full beauty of the skeleton mechanism including its date disc. It also provides greater assurance against counterfeiting.
The watch features a date window positioned at 4.30, a central chrono seconds hand and three timers at 9 o'clock (seconds), at 3 o'clock (30 minutes) and a small one at 6 o'clock (hours); the whole piece is completed by an alligator strap stitched onto rubber for comfort, flexibility and improved durability. The timepiece is available in black or brown, depending on the version (there are 4 different versions in total). The watch is water resistant to 100 metres. In short, this is a timepiece with a new shape and a new movement, but it is still 100% true to its Hublot DNA.
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BIG BANG POP ART – for Ladies only!
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ublot introduces an ultrafeminine series inspired by the famous art movement: Pop Art, an artistic movement which had its heyday in 1970s American culture. Playful use of colour. Flashy, joyful, upbeat. Everything was questioned. Dare... Reinterpret... Subvert... Andy Warhol and his famous portrait of Marilyn Monroe immediately spring to mind. How has it influenced the Big Bang? Pink, blue, purple, apple green: an explosion of colour in 4 watches, all 100% Pop Art reinterpretations. Seriously vibrant. And a first in the world of Haute Horlogerie. With two models in gold and two in steel, these are playful watches. Yet their design is that of the iconic Big Bang 41mm, featuring a bezel set with 48 baguette precious stones: topazes for the blue, amethysts for the purple, sapphires for the pink and tsavorites for the green, and dials with multi-coloured counters reminiscent of a painter's palette. The ensemble is completed by a strap in coloured alligator sewn onto tone-on-tone rubber for comfort and flexibility. Inside beats the HUB 4300 movement, a selfwinding mechanical chronograph with a date window at 4 o'clock which is sure to catch the eye of connoisseurs. With a power reserve of over 40 hours, the watch is water resistant to 100 m for year-round durability. Long live fun, vibrant colours. Long live Pop Art and long live life!
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imited to just 50 watches, the Aquatimer Perpetual Calendar Digital Date-Month combines state-of-the-art technology with quality looks. Hidden away inside a case made of such unusual materials as rubber-coated titanium and 18-carat red gold is a perpetual calendar with a large digital display showing the date and month. The integrated quick-action switch, which advances the month display, has one thing in common with the Galapagos marine iguana: they are both masters of energy efficiency. Over time, the marine iguanas have become masters of energy efficiency: they bask in the sun on the baking hot volcanic rock, storing the energy they need for their strength-sapping dives; once in the water, they reduce their energy requirements by slowing down their heartbeat. This is nature’s way of showing us how to use energy intelligently. Energy plays a central role in watchmaking mechanic as well. The automatic winding system in a mechanical watch supplies the movement with energy, but owing to the limited length of the mainspring, only part of it can be saved. There is enough energy for basic timekeeping and even for energy-sapping complications like the perpetual calendar. But if the perpetual calendar in question has large digital date and month displays with an additional leap year display, it means five display discs may need to be moved simultaneously. And this is where a conventional winding mechanism is soon stretched to its limits. For this reason, the engineers at IWC Schaffhausen developed the quick-action switch. This self-contained mechanical energy storage device builds up the power required to advance the month display discs continuously throughout the month – needless to say, all without any effect on the movement’s accuracy.
Digital or analogue: innovative, either way In 2014, The Aquatimer Perpetual Calendar Digital Date-Month took its place in IWC Schaffhausen’s diver’s watch family as the flagship of the new Aquatimer collection. The distinctly technical design of the dial is characterised by the extra-large numerals of the perpetual calendar, which is mechanically programmed until 2100. The date and month discs have perforated covers. The designers took their inspiration for this particular element from the filter systems that are omnipresent on submarine vehicles. This provides a view of the complex switching mechanism at work: a fascinating spectacle, particularly at the end of the month, when all four date discs move simultaneously. The four-year leap year cycle is also shown digitally.
AQUATIMER – THE HIGH ART OF WATCHMAKING TAKES TO THE DEPTHS
At IWC, the digital display with large numerals has a tradition dating back over 100 years: the company’s first pocket watches with a jumping digital display had their market launch as long ago as 1884. Even today, most individuals prefer an analogue display with hands because it is easier and more intuitive. IWC’s engineers made use of this fact, giving the Aquatimer a second innovative form of indicator: the chronograph display. A subdial at “12 o’clock” displays stop times between one minute and 12 hours as simply as the time of day, using minute and hour hands, while the central hand counts the number of seconds. Anyone who has experienced an analogue stopwatch will only reluctantly go back to aggregate timing using two or more counters.
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Functional Design, Quality Looks With an impressive diameter of 49mm, the Aquatimer is the second-largest wristwatch in IWC’s history after the Big Pilot’s Watch of 1940. The external rotating bezel is made of 18-carat red gold, as is the protective cover on the left side of the case for the advanced sliding clutch system, which transmits the rotation of the external bezel to the internal rotating bezel. The IWC SafeDive system ensures that the bezel can only be turned anticlockwise, and that zero hour – a dive time requiring no decompression stops – is not inadvertently exceeded. The casing ring, push-buttons and crown are made of rubbercoated titanium. While the attractive black rubber strap with its black alligator leather inlay guarantees maximum comfort in wear and a long service life, the unusual combination of red gold, rubber and leather gives the watch a look that is both classy and sporty at once. The see-through sapphire-glass back provides a view of the IWC-manufactured 89801 movement, which comprises 474 individual parts, and its highly efficient double-pawl winding mechanism. The Super-LumiNova® coating on the hands and indices glows brightly in the dark both in green for displays relevant to dive time, and blue for the hour display. The imposing Aquatimer Perpetual Calendar Digital Date-Month is water-resistant to 10 bar and will attract attention both underwater and on terra firma: another feature it has in common with the Galapagos iguanas.
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MYSTERIOUS DIVA – PORTUGUESE TOURBILLON MYSTÈRE RÉTROGRADE
The small seconds indicator, which previously occupied this position, is replaced in a particularly appealing fashion by the minute tourbillon. Its steel cage, with the three characteristic stays arranged in the shape of a star, performs this function. On the right half of the dial, the indicator for the seven-day power reserve displays information about the remaining available power of the spring barrel, which is supplied to it in a highly efficient manner via the proven Pellaton winding system of this calibre family. The flying minute tourbillon, that is to say it is supported on only one side, consists of 81 parts and weighs 0.433 grams. It provides the focal point of this dial-cum-stage as an “animated twelve” and rotates against the deep black background of the black under part of its cage – a wheel which rotates together with the cage once every minute.
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he Portuguese Tourbillon Mystère has for many years been one of the world’s most beautiful watches with a rotating carriage escapement. The designers at IWC Schaffhausen have refined this coveted and exclusive timepiece to include an extraordinary date display.
Whereas in the previous model the tourbillon was still embedded in a plate segment decorated with cylindrical grinding, in the Portuguese Tourbillon Mystère Rétrograde it is set in a ring that is mirror-finished on the inside, in which the parts of the escapement are reflected once again. For aside from the technical delicacy of this escapement, the Portuguese Tourbillon Mystère Rétrograde is above all a true feast for the eyes.
This is undoubtedly the diva of the IWC Schaffhausen Portuguese family – provocative, beautiful and mysterious. Its admirers have continued to increase in number ever since it made its debut in 2004. This can be attributed to its generous proportions, its special class and the remarkable setting of its tourbillon escapement – as an “animated twelve” against a deep black background. The Portuguese Tourbillon Mystère with its seven-day power reserve owes its mysteriousness to the illusion that the fine cage containing the balance appears to rotate in a void. The designers at IWC have refined this already mysterious watch to include a date indicator that flies back at the end of the month – as the Portuguese Tourbillon Mystère Rétrograde.
In addition to the 500-piece limited edition of the variant in 18 carat red gold with solid gold appliqués and a silverplated dial, a 250-piece limited edition of the variant in platinum with a ruthenium-black dial and rhodium-plated hands and indices is also available. With a clear focus on technology and development, the Swiss watch manufacturer IWC Schaffhausen has been producing timepieces of lasting value since 1868. The company has gained an international reputation based on a passion for innovative solutions and technical ingenuity. One of the world’s leading brands in the luxury watch segment, IWC crafts masterpieces of haute horlogerie at their finest, combining supreme precision with exclusive design. As an ecologically and socially responsible company, IWC is committed to sustainable production, supports institutions worldwide in their work with children and young people, and maintains partnerships with organisations dedicated to climate and environmental protection.
The graduated scale for the supplementary flyback date indicator, which is integrated into the IWC-manufactured 51900-calibre movement, extends over one quarter of the surface of the generously dimensioned dial. On reaching the end of any months with 31 days – January, March, May, July, August, October, December – the date indicator springs back automatically to “1”. In shorter months, or also if the watch has not been worn for some time, the date indicator can be advanced by the rapid adjustment function and flies back to the first day of the month. The time does not need to be adjusted in conjunction with this. This superior watch is enhanced by an exceptional display.
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Jaquet Droz has perpetuated the spirit of innovation and aesthetic refinement for close to 300 years.
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ounder Pierre Jaquet-Droz was born in 1721 in La Chaux-de-Fonds, France. He began to take a serious interest in clockmaking and precision mechanics under the tutelage of older relatives and from a young age, he devoted himself entirely to clockmaking. His meticulous nature and serious approach to his craft, as well as the reasoned application of mechanical principles, led him to add music and automata to his movements, which came rapidly to the attention of a wealthy and demanding clientele. Firmly established in his profession, he married and had two children, but tragically in 1755, Pierre lost first his wife, and then his daughter. Left with a 3-year old son, Henri-Louis, he never remarried, devoting himself entirely to clockmaking. In an encounter that would change the course of his life, he met George Keith, Lord Marischal, who advised him to present his creations abroad and introduced him to the Spanish court. After a successful year, he returned to La Chaux-de-Fonds to concentrate exclusively on making the watches, clocks and automata destined to become famous, assisted by his son Henri-Louis and a neighbour's son, Jean-Frédéric Leschot, whom he took in after the boy's mother died and thought of as his own. This was the beginning of a close and fruitful partnership.
To London, China, Geneva, and back again In 1774, Jaquet-Droz set up a workshop in London, under the management of HenriLouis and Jean-Frédéric Leschot. One of Leschot's responsibilities was to oversee the business relationship with the prominent trading company James Cox London, whose agents in Canton opened up the Far Eastern market for the Jaquet Droz Company. In the heart of 18th-century Beijing, the emperor himself collected masterpieces by Pierre Jaquet-Droz and was so engrossed that he set up his own office to import and trade these watches and automata from Europe.
Jaquet Droz pays tribute to the Sign of the Horse
For some ten years, the company continued to expand. It sold clocks, automata, watches and singing birds all over the world. But the harsh climate of La Chaux-deFonds and insidious London fog was detrimental to Henri-Louis' health, so in 1784, he decided to move to Geneva. Leschot soon joined him to open the city's first clockmaking manufacture, simultaneously introducing the production of timekeepers with major complications. Thus the Jaquet-Droz tradition began: specialising in the manufacture and export of luxury watches featuring automata, musical mechanisms or other complications.
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Since the brand was acquired in 2000 by the Swatch Group, it has returned to La Chaux-de-Fonds, moving into its new Atelier de Haute Horlogerie in 2010. Like Jaquet-Droz timepieces, the new premises reflect consummate expertise and craftsmanship.
Three exclusive models have been created using the exclusive know-how of Jaquet Droz's master craftsmen, specialising in highly complex techniques: engraving, painting and Grand Feu enamel. Two Arab thoroughbreds – considered the most beautiful horses in the world – have been delicately painted on the ivory enamel dial of the Petite Heure Minute 39mm. Captured in full gallop, they seem to want to catch up with the sculptural mustang that appears on the dial of the Petite Heure Minute 43mm. Extremely wild and difficult to tame, this horse from the American Northwest – depicted in red gold and engraved in bas-relief – seems to jump out from the black enamel. The champlevé technique, used here for the first time by Jaquet Droz, highlights the movement of the mane and the tail, both filled in with black Grand Feu enamel. On each of these models, a horse's head is also represented on the back of the white gold oscillating weight.
he horse has been a key part of Man's history since the beginning of time. In 2014, China marks the new year with this sign, the seventh in the Chinese zodiac, which is celebrated by Jaquet Droz every year. It is a way of remembering the connection between the brand's founder – the first watchmaker to walk through the gates of the Forbidden City – and the Middle Kingdom. The Brand thus continues its annual tradition by honouring this trusty companion and symbol of loyalty, creativity and daring in its Ateliers d'Art series.
The modern era – never-ending expertise In 2002, Jaquet Droz launched the Grande Seconde, inspired by a pocket watch created in the 18th century. A Jaquet Droz timeless classic, this timepiece features an elegant demonstration of the art of Grand Feu enameling on its dial. Nicolas G. Hayek, taking over the reins of Montres Jaquet Droz in 2009, introduced The Eclipse, a magnificent timepiece featuring eight stars – the company’s favourite number – and an engraved moon that revolves each day, gradually changing shape with each new dawn. Inspired by the 18th century, the design reflects the company’s heritage as well as its penchant for the decorative arts that dates back to the Enlightenment.
The dial of the Petite Heure Minute 41mm depicts a horse rearing up on its hind legs against a backdrop of the Great Wall of China, engraved and patinated by hand on a mother-of-pearl dial. Bold, powerful and elegant, this fearless horse in 18-carat red gold appears to protect the Great Wall, which is also hand-engraved on the 22-carat red gold oscillating weight next to the Jaquet Droz signature of two stars.
Most recently, the Bird Repeater, a product of the imagination of the artisans at Jaquet Droz epitomising the company’s heritage, prowess and creativity, was unveiled in November 2012. This impressive masterpiece, featuring an authentic automaton, incorporates the full range of decorative crafts. An exhibition called “Automates et merveilles” (Automata and Marvels) was staged in 2012, in collaboration with Montres Jaquet Droz, to celebrate the shared genius of the Jaquet-Droz father and son team, and Leschot. An impressive number of pieces and quantity of information went on display three museums in the Neuchâtel region, honouring a legacy of innovation.
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Loyal to its spirit of exclusivity, Jaquet Droz is offering each of these new models in a limited edition of 88 pieces with a red gold case and available on a brown or black alligator leather strap – an opportunity to celebrate all the promises of the new year with constant refinement.
Grande Seconde SW Côtes de Genève The subtle mix of cool elegance
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he Jaquet Droz Grande Seconde is immediately identifiable by its two offcentred dials that describe a figure eight with great purity of line. A unique and incomparable timepiece since its inception, it is regularly reinterpreted by the brand’s artisans. In 2008, Jaquet Droz launched the Grande Seconde SW, a sporty reworking of this iconic model that has only become more successful over the years. Now, a new version enhances the line in 2014, complete with alligator leather straps and new Côtes de Genève decoration, to give the Grande Seconde SW an ever-greater aura of luxury. The famous Côtes de Genève ornamental pattern, typical of Swiss watchmaking, is used on the dials in anthracite grey. A series of regular lines, the pattern highlights the watch's features and gives it unprecedented depth. The traditional rubber and metal strap of the Grande Seconde SW has also been replaced by the fine luster of an alligator leather strap in a colour to match the dial. Jaquet Droz is delighted to unveil the several other variations of this watchmaking icon at Baselworld 2014.
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RADIOMIR 1940 CHR ONOGRAPH
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fficine Panerai presents a new chronograph of the highest quality, incorporating a fascinating combination of design, technology and history – the Radiomir 1940 Chronograph, available in three different precious metals: platinum, red gold and white gold. The case, 45mm in diameter, has the simple, elegant lines developed by Panerai in 1940, the time of the first Radiomir. Every detail of the 1940 case has a polished finish, including the two push-buttons controlling the chronograph functions, the cylindrical winding crown and the bezel. The dial of the new Radiomir 1940 Chronograph is a new and original design, inspired by the history of the brand, but also by the function of the watch. The red gold version has a brown dial with the combination of graphic hour markers, Roman and Arabic numerals that has acquired the name California, adopted by the Radiomir of 1936. The platinum version has the ivory dial, with simple baton or dot hour markers, and the same design distinguishes the black dial of the white gold version. The latter has a dial with the sandwich structure, formed of two superimposed plates with the luminous material between them, visible through holes corresponding to the hour markers. Common to all three versions is the tachymeter scale for calculating average speed and the two chronograph counters. The movement is the OP XXV calibre, developed on a Minerva 13-22 base. The Minerva manufacture has had historic links with Panerai since the 1920s, when the Swiss manufacturer was a supplier to the Florentine watchmaker. The OP XXV calibre is a handwound chronograph of extremely sophisticated construction and high quality details, such as the column wheel, the swanneck regulator, and the Côtes de Genève finish of the bridges. The high level of craftsmanship can be appreciated through the large sapphire crystal porthole in the back. The new Radiomir 1940 Chronographs are produced in a unique edition, limited to 100 examples for each of the gold versions and 50 examples for the platinum version. Supplied with an alligator strap and water-resistant to a depth of 50 metres, the Chronographs represented high achievement in design and technology.
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he pendulum of Galileo Galilei – the “measurer of time” – marked a turning point in horology and opened the doors of the modern era. It now beats again, thanks to Officine Panerai and its new Pendulum Clock. This is a faithful reproduction of the instrument designed by Galileo, whose discovery in the 17th century enabled clocks to progress from an error of several minutes per day to one of just a few seconds. His escape wheel design is recognised as the first free escapement, and the Pendulum Clock therefore represents an operation of exceptional historic importance and technical mastery.
GALILEO GALILEI’S PENDULUM CLOCK
The remarkable new Pendulum Clock is based on the model made by the Florentine clockmaker Eustachio Porcellotti in 1887, from an original drawing by Galileo. The frame consists of two main plates, which are made not of iron, as in the original model and Porcellotti’s, but of brass, plated with nickel-palladium, and they are joined by crosspieces at the top and the bottom fixed in the traditional way by taper pins. Between the base and the dial is the spring barrel, the drum of which contains a spring 4.10 metres long that powers the clock for eight days. Higher up is the dial with Roman numerals, like that of the 1887 model, with black-lacquered hands. The wheels with their hand-finished teeth, the bezel surrounding the dial, the spring barrel and other details are all gold plated. The fundamental part of the clock is the regulating pendulum and escapement designed by Galileo. This consists of an escape wheel with 12 pins fitted to its side and 12 teeth cut in its perimeter, and three levers. While the wheel is in its stopped phase, the pendulum is completely free from any contact with it, and for this reason the device is called a “free escapement”. The Pendulum Clock is mounted on a mahogany base, with a hinged plate on the front on which the name of the model is engraved; underneath the plate is a bubble level, indispensable since the clock must be perfectly horizontal to run accurately. The base is levelled by turning the four adjustable feet of the wooden base. Completing the Pendulum Clock is a glass case, with a black-lacquered aluminium frame and a door at the front enabling the clock to be wound and its hands to be set. The Panerai Pendulum Clock is made in 30 numbered units, sold only in the Officine Panerai boutiques around the world.
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Reinterpreting a classic:
Panerai unveils two new pocket watches
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he purity of Panerai’s design achieves an unprecedented and exclusive expression in its new gold pocket watches – two extremely elegant Special Editions of a only 50 units each: the Pocket Watch 3 Days Oro Rosso and the Pocket Watch 3 Days Oro Bianco. The pocket watch is one of the most elegant and sophisticated masculine accessories, with a history of being reserved for connoisseurs and collectors. Early in the 20th century, Panerai’s rologeria in Florence was a popular destination for anyone looking for a pocket watch. The new models are renewing this tradition, and enhancing it with the high-quality watchmaking of the Panerai manufacture in Neuchâtel.
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Available in red gold and white gold, the polished case of the 3 Days models is 50mm in diameter, with a single gold bow surrounding the winding crown. The dial is in the classic Panerai style, with large baton hour markers and numerals, and it has the sun-brushed finish which endows both versions – anthracite for the white gold model and brown for the red gold – with a sophisticated appearance. The exceptional brightness ensures remarkable legibility even in very poor light. It is the back of the watch that hides the most fascinating surprise for enthusiasts of high quality watchmaking. The large round cover concealing the movement can easily be opened in order to admire the finish of the P.3001/10 calibre, presented for the first time in a new version, with the bridges and the two barrels skeletonised to enable observation of the sophisticated details of the movement, such as the wheelwork and the gilded engraving.
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This fascinating spectacle is protected by means of the polished cover, the outside of which can be personalised with engraving. Topping it all off: the nautical-inspired 40cm watch chain, made entirely in red gold or white gold. Consistent with the history of the brand, every Panerai watch has a high degree of waterresistance and the two new models are no exception. The exquisite mahogany box specially made to contain the watch also includes a special stand which turns the into a unique table clock.
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For Roger Dubuis, 2014 brings a unique focus on its reinvigorated Hommage collection representing the quintessence of its incredible Mechanics. The collection pays eloquent tribute to horology and to the most admirable exponents of this discipline that is both art and science, as well as a magnificent field of expression for a wide range of handcrafted skills. Each of the models in this collection carries the figurative and literal signature of Mr Roger Dubuis, the enduring ‘soulmaker’ of the Manufacture that bears his name and the man who first launched the Hommage collection in 1995.
Roger Dubuis Hommage Double Flying Tourbillon with hand-made guilloché
The Hommage Double Flying Tourbillon with hand-made guilloché provides a stunning contemporary interpretation of a time-honoured decorative skill in a model driven by the innovative new RD100 movement. The newly revived collection also encompasses a selection of Hommage Automatics giving a signature contemporary slant to traditional wristworn elegance, as well as Hommage Chronographs powered by sophisticated Manufacture Roger Dubuis movements, all dedicated to keeping pace with performance. Meanwhile, ladies are offered a tantalising opportunity to blend Fine Watchmaking and spectacular gemstones in a choice of velvet – haute joaillerie creations that may be personalised at will to capture their unique character and charm. Each of these models embodies another facet of Roger Dubuis’ unswerving commitment to excellence, as vividly illustrated in its 100% Poinçon de Genève-certified production. Roger Dubuis honours fine watchmaking by showcasing its Hommage collection at the SIHH 2014, and throughout the coming year, Roger Dubuis has decided to turn the spotlight firmly on its Hommage collection, first launched almost 20 years ago and now presented as a broad and dynamic range of timepieces that accentuate its unique stature and cherished vocation. Introduced in white and pink gold only, the collection will only ever be issued in noble metals befitting the distinguished character of the mechanisms beating inside.
The man behind the magic Revisited and reinterpreted in a timeless vein, the timepieces in the Hommage Collection, including the Hommage Double Flying Tourbillon with hand-made guilloché, regroup the entire heritage of Roger Dubuis. Like the master-watchmaker who gave life to this collection, the collection is endowed not only with style but also with a powerful character. It serves as the custodian of his spirit of innovation and his quest for reliability. Vividly embodying the master-watchmaker’s wealth of experience, inherited from all those who have preceded him and admirably perpetuated by the current generation at work within Roger Dubuis, this collection gives rise to creations that will make their mark on horological history. Featuring classic designs and frequently issued in limited editions, the models in the Hommage collection embody a blend of aesthetic refinement and traditional watchmaking references. Dedicated to Fine Watchmaking enthusiasts in search of excellence, they all proudly bear Mr Roger Dubuis’ signature on the exhibition-type case-back, either metallised on the sapphire crystal pane, or engraved on the surrounding metal.
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The new Hommage Double Flying Tourbillon with hand-made guilloché achieves a spectacular new demonstration of Roger Dubuis’ equally intense concern for the inner and outer beauty of its models. Endowed with historical design codes including long slender lugs, a concave bezel, large Roman numerals, a fluted crown and a distinctive folding clasp, it also features a range of subtle new touches.
TOURBILLON RM 51-01 TIGER AND DRAGON - MICHELLE YEOH
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ontinuing the celebration of novel ladies’ timepieces for this “Year of the Woman”, Richard Mille’s ongoing and fruitful association with the famous Malaysian actress Michelle Yeoh encompasses a new jewellery creation with the tourbillon RM 51-01 Tiger and Dragon-Michelle Yeoh. This novel artistic creation celebrates her new film ‘Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon II’, due to be released in 2014, in which Michelle returns to the role of her well known character, Yu Shu Lien. Richard Mille and Michelle’s collaboration began in 2011 with the creation of the RM 051 Phoenix Tourbillon, a symbolic timepiece in which she was intimately active. Michelle desired to reiterate the concept of forms and shapes integrated within the watch’s movement, this time with a visual scene centred on the symbolic themes of the Tiger and the Dragon, with a tiger and a dragon clutching the tourbillon movement. Created from 3N red gold, the figures are carved and incised entirely by hand. Special miniature tools were custom-made for the specific artistry required in the physical realisation of these two creatures. To increase the realism of these special animals, a long and painstaking process of hand-finished micro painting was executed, including the unseen parts of these two marvellous entities. The tiger and dragon have deeply influenced Asian culture. The tiger, considered as ‘Yang’ supremacy and therefore male, was viewed as a demon hunter. For the military, the tiger, symbol of courage, was represented on shields and weapons. The dragon, meanwhile, is a very common symbol in China, taking on many complex traits, as an emblem that can unify a group. Today we closely associate it with prosperity and happiness. With a power reserve of 48 hours, indicated by a red line between 10 and 11 o’clock, the grade 5 titanium movement includes a torque limiting crown to protect the watch from possible overwinding. The RM 51-01 Tiger and Dragon-Michelle Yeoh will be available in a limited edition of 20 pieces in 18K white or red gold.
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RM 35-01 RAFAEL NADAL
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truly exceptional athlete of tremendous ability and stamina, Rafael Nadal once again provides his name and inspiration to a Richard Mille timepiece, the RM 35-01. This new manual winding wristwatch combines the spirit of the now legendary RM 027 family of timepieces with a case created using NTPT Carbon technology, recently developed by the brand. For Rafael Nadal, 2013 was an incredible year with ten tennis championship titles. Relegated to fifth place after an injury kept him away from the courts for several months, Nadal made a spectacular comeback, retaking the world’s No. 1 placement in the ATP rankings within the year. The RM 35-01 represents the horological incarnation of this innate strength and will of Rafael Nadal, a man always prepared to ignore any barriers that life might place on his path to success. The RMUL3 calibre used in the RM 35-01 offers exceptional impact resistance thanks to the use of grade 5 titanium throughout the highly skeletonised movement design, combined with black PVD surface treatment. In the competitive challenge the RM 35-01 represents, Richard Mille Watches in Les Breuleux extensively tested the RMUL3 calibre under severe conditions, with extreme shocks applied to the movement exceeding 5000 Gs. Only the expertise of Richard Mille in the machining of new materials, combined with unique design characteristics, allowed such tests to be completed with such ease. The skeletonised manual winding calibre RMUL3 with its Swiss anchor escapement uses 24 jewels and a free sprung balance beating at a frequency of 4 Hz. With a power reserve of 55 hours provided by a double barrel system, this extraordinary movement, weighing a mere 4 grams in total, is mounted within a unique case created from NTPT carbon. This hightech material not only makes each case exceptionally rigid in every direction; it also means that on a visual level every timepiece is totally unique, closely resembling the surface of finely crafted Damascene steel, due to the complex and aleatoric carbon structures that are slowly revealed during the processes of milling and finishing. The RM 35-01 is a remarkable 21st century timepiece with a movement and case design unparalleled in the world of Haute Horlogerie. On every level, it represents the purest embodiment of toughness and elegance under stress, much like Mr. Nadal himself. 142
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U N D E R T H E H I G H PAT R O N A G E O F H I S S E R E N E H I G H N E S S P R I N C E A L B E R T I I O F M O N A C O
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S I M PLY J E W E L L E RY BY JOR DA N A LY NC H
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t its simplest, jewellery, or jewelery, is a form of personal adornment. It has been made to decorate the body, clothing and even our animals and inanimate objects. In addition, it is used on religious objects and in important ceremonies. But lovers of luxury know that it is so much more than that. It can help beautify and accessorise a person and their clothing, define them and their beliefs, and mark their status. Yet at its essence, jewellery is a stunning celebration of the natural riches of our material world, and a mark of the most profound love to be found in our spiritual world. The word jewellery is derived from the word jewel, which was anglicised from the Old French "jouel" around the 13th century. And whether it’s referred to as trinkets, charms, ornaments, or simply bling, it has been a key part of all cultures since the beginning of the human race. Here A&J explore the fabulous and timeless appeal of finely wrought precious metals and stones, crafted by the world’s most creative designers and highly skilled artisans.
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G R A F F D I A M O N D S S I M P L Y T H E M O S T F A B U L O U S J E W E L S I N T H E W O R L D
‘Simply Influential’ introduced you to Mr. Francois Graff, the Chief Executive Officer of Graff Diamonds. Now we are pleased to tell you more about the world of Graff Diamonds – a name synonymous with the most fabulous jewels in the world, showcasing exceptional quality, style and workmanship. From the founding of the company in 1960 to the present day, Graff has operated as a family business. Mr. Francois Graff’s father, Laurence Graff OBE, Founder and Chairman of the company, is often described as “The King of Diamonds”. In fact, it has been said that more important gem quality diamonds have passed through Laurence Graff’s hands than any other Diamantaire. His brother Raymond Graff manages the jewellery workshop, and nephew Elliott Graff controls the design, merchandising and production of the jewellery. With over 35 Graff stores worldwide and corporate offices in London, New York and Geneva, Graff is one of the world’s preeminent jewellery brands. Graff jewels are made by hand in the Graff London workshop; from the creation of the design to the immaculate setting, each piece requires many hours of work, some several hundred hours. The highly skilled craftsmen, many of whom are trained at Graff, have perfected the extraordinarily fine settings of exceptional quality that are synonymous with Graff, and why it’s known for the most fabulous jewels in the world. The Graff Family takes great pride in knowing that these gems of everlasting beauty will pass from generation to generation, building their own legends on the way.
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Graff Diamonds opens its first Abu Dhabi boutique
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ontinuing its expansion across the Middle East, Graff Diamonds
is delighted to announce the opening of its first boutique in Abu Dhabi. Located at the The Galleria at Sowwah Square on Al
Maryah Island, this latest opening takes Graff’s Middle Eastern presence to a total of three, with the next set to open in Riyadh in 2014. Francois Graff, Chief Executive Officer at Graff Diamonds, commented: “Abu Dhabi is a preeminent luxury destination and I am confident that now is the right time for Graff to have a presence in the region.” Wajdi Abdel Hadi, General Manager, Al Manara International Jewellery, confirmed this, saying: “We are extremely proud to have Graff Diamonds as part of our world class portfolio. Al Manara International Jewellery is committed to offering our discerning clients the world’s most exclusive jewellery and watches in Abu Dhabi.” Graff Abu Dhabi has been designed by Graff’s in-house interior design team, based on a contemporary concept by Peter Marino, and boasts a striking gold exterior, punctuated by the distinctive outline of the Graff Icon motif. Striking wall panels in sumptuous colours are perfectly complemented by boldly striped marble floors, while elegantly crafted showcases line the walls, displaying unique one-of-a-kind jewels, timepieces from Graff Luxury Watches and Graff’s stunning collection pieces. Graff Abu Dhabi offers the perfect place to peruse the fine craftsmanship and meticulous attention to detail for which Graff Diamonds is renowned.
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Van Cleef and Arpels
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pirit and elegance: equally fascinating, equally difficult to define. The spirit of Van Cleef & Arpels is a subtle combination of values and styles, enriched over the years by refinement and a daring kind of elegance. For more than one hundred years, Van Cleef & Arpels has been creating exceptional pieces with remarkable know-how, in the name of love. Today, as always, Van Cleef & Arpels’ creations adorn celebrities and others, proving that one only needs to listen to one’s time to be part of it, and that one can live a century and still be in tune with today. An exquisite example of this timelessness is The Zip necklace. The humble zipper seems far removed from the realm of sophistication. Yet despite its humble origins, it has inspired one of Van Cleef & Arpels’ most iconic pieces. The Zip necklace blends humour and refinement by re-appropriating an everyday object into a radically different context. This astonishing feat in jewellery-making can be credited to the Duchess of Windsor, who suggested the idea to the Maison circa 1938. Crafted in round and baguette-cut diamonds mounted in platinum, the necklace was not produced until 1951. An outstanding technical achievement, it soon achieved iconic status.
The Zip Necklace remains a distinctive element in Van Cleef & Arpels’ collections today. The closure actually slides up and down, enabling it to be left partially open or even closed entirely to form a bracelet. This transformability gives it a playful yet functional character, which perfectly matches the spirit of the Maison. And in the tradition of the Maison’s affinity for the arts comes the Caresse d’Eole Fairy clip, inspired by William Shakespeare’s "A Midsummer Night’s Dream", a powerful evocation of an enchanted world. Beneath the branches of a magical forest, four
separate romantic plots intertwine and – eventually – resolve themselves into happy endings. A celebration of love and nature, the play has defined our vision of fairyland ever since its first performance. The Caresee D’Eole Fairly clip presents a stunning example of these small, enchanted beings, depicted in a graceful pose with wings of extreme delicacy, studded with exquisite diamonds. Her foots rests daintily on a rock of deepest ruby, in the famous Van Cleef and Arpels Mystery Setting – the very picture of femininity.
L'Invitation earrings, white, yellow and pink gold, diamonds, mother-of-pearl, sapphires and demantoid garnets, Bals de Légende High Jewellery collection
Further honouring its high jewellery history, the Maison pays homage to the great dance balls of the 20th century with a stunning collection: Bals de Légende. Organised around extravagant themes, the balls brought prestigious guests to exclusive locations in the name of high culture and joyful celebration. Van Cleef & Arpels was a faithful witness to these occasions, where its creations sparkled on a host of magnificent costumes. Today, the L’invitation earrings and necklace continue the story, sparkling and swooping in colourful lines of white, yellow and pink diamonds, mother of pearl, sapphires and demantoid garnets. "To be lucky, you have to believe in luck”. Those were the words of Jacques Arpels a century ago. And today, the Maison has gathered together a myriad of lucky symbols, in the Palais De La Chance collection. The collection includes exceptional coloured gems, carved hard stones and daring associations of materials, as showcased so brilliantly in the Trèfles Mystérieux necklace, a floral interpretation of a lucky symbol, the four-leaf clover. The clovers motifs are adorned with Mystery Set emeralds and four marquise diamond-cut that highlight the magical appearance of this creation.
L'Invitation necklace, white, yellow and pink gold, diamonds, sapphires, natural pearls, tourmalines, demantoid garnets, mother-of-pearl, turquoise and chrysoprase, Bals de Légende High Jewellery collection
Nature captured in all its vitality, the poetry of dance, the magic of fairies – all have inspired astonishing pieces of jewellery that sublimely demonstrate the Maison’s technical mastery, legendary craftsmanship, and taste for innovation and transformations.
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Zip Antique Duo necklace, white gold, diamonds, onyx and white cultured pearls, Zip High Jewellery collection
Trèfles Mystérieux necklace, white and red gold, diamonds and Mystery Set emeralds, Palais de la chance High Jewellery collection
Trèfles Mystérieux earrings, white and red gold, diamonds and Mystery Set emeralds, Palais de la chance High Jewellery collection
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FABERGÉ A celebrated history of exquisite objects
The Fabergé Imperial collection
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abergé, the world’s most iconic artist jeweller, creates modern collections of extraordinary jewellery, watches and accessories for a discerning international clientele. Founded in 1842, Fabergé has been the most revered name in jewellery ever since Peter Carl Fabergé became official goldsmith to the Russian Imperial Court; the house created exquisite jewels and objects, including the legendary series of lavish and ingenious Imperial Easter Eggs. Peter Carl Fabergé was renowned for his exquisite and artistic use of colour, making the most of each gemstone’s unique characteristics and developing a vibrant enamel palette. Today, Fabergé continues to explore and epitomise the ‘art of colour’, pushing the boundaries of artistry and craftsmanship with superlative coloured gemstones and innovative techniques. Contemporary collections are available at Fabergé boutiques in New York, London, Geneva and Kiev, as well as at Harrods in London and other exclusive international retailers.
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abergé unveils its exquisite new additions to the much-loved Imperial collection, inspired by the jeweller’s legendary legacy. The new jewels follow the inspiration of the Imperial collection, expressing the jewelled splendour of the Imperial Romanov court, reimagined in vibrant coloured gemstones. Hand-crafted in emeralds, sapphires and amethysts, the series comprises delicate earrings, ring, cuff, sautoir and a breathtaking necklace from which is suspended a delightful egg. Fabergé will also showcase its signature jewellery masterpieces, including spectacular single stone rings, set with rare coloured gemstones and iconic egg pendants.
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Délices D'Été Ring Délices D’Été Blue Sapphire Ring Fabergé workmaster collections, capsule collections and jewellery suites each tell a story inspired by Fabergé’s rich legacy masterpieces possessing the modernity, refinement and technical perfection of Fabergé’s original captivating works of genius. Délices D’Été Blue Sapphire Ring features round white diamonds, multicoloured round sapphires and a cushion cut blue sapphire set in 18 carat white gold.
Viera Emerald Ring - Devotion Emerald 13.74cts Ring The Devotion Collection exemplifies ‘the art of colour’, seamlessly fusing extraordinary coloured gemstones, artistic ingenuity and exceptional craftsmanship. Fabergé’s vibrant gemstones are chosen for their exquisite colour, cut, clarity and character.
Délices D'Été Necklace Délices D’Été Necklace Fabergé workmaster collections, capsule collections and jewellery suites each tell a story inspired by Fabergé’s rich legacy masterpieces possessing the modernity, refinement and technical perfection of Fabergé’s original captivating works of genius.
Viera Oval Ring - Devotion Ruby Ring The Devotion Collection exemplifies ‘the art of colour’, seamlessly using extraordinary coloured gemstones, artistic ingenuity and exceptional craftsmanship. Fabergé’s vibrant gemstones are chosen for their exquisite colour, cut, clarity and character. This collection celebrates special lifetime events, milestones and memorable moments.
Délices D’Été Necklace features round white diamonds, round and pear shape multi-coloured sapphires and black opals set in 18 carat white gold.
This collection celebrates special lifetime events, milestones and memorable moments. Devotion Emerald Ring features baguette and round white diamonds and a rectangle cut Gemfields' Zambian emerald of 13.74 carats set in platinum.
Devotion Ruby Ring features an oval red ruby and round and pear shape white diamonds set in platinum.
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Viera Ring - Devotion Sapphire 13.01cts Ring The Devotion Collection exemplifies ‘the art of colour’, seamlesslyf using extraordinary coloured gemstones, artistic ingenuity and exceptional craftsmanship. Fabergé’s vibrant gemstones are chosen for their exquisite colour, cut, clarity and character. This collection celebrates special lifetime events, milestones and memorable moments. Devotion Sapphire 13.01cts Ring features a cushion cut blue sapphire of 13.01 carats and round white diamonds set in platinum.
La Broche Lara à Irkutsk Fabergé Treasures, a charismatic and diverse collection of jewellery and objects, frequently one-off , is inspired by the Fabergé ethos of embarking on a new adventure, striking a different path and making something that stands apart. La Broche Lara à Irkutsk features round white diamonds, mauves sapphires and pearls set in 18 carat white gold.
Diaghilev Emerald Egg Pendant Fabergé Treasures, a charismatic and diverse collection of jewellery and objects, frequently one-off, is inspired by the Fabergé ethos of embarking on a new adventure, striking a different path and making something that stands apart.
Dentelle de Perles Bracelet Fabergé workmaster collections, capsule collections and jewellery suites each tell a story inspired by Fabergé’s rich legacy masterpieces possessing the modernity, refinement and technical perfection of Fabergé’s original captivating works of genius.
L' Oeuf Diaghilev Emeraude/ The Emerald Diaghilev Egg features round emeralds, moonstones, round white diamonds and tapered baguette white diamonds set in 18 carat white gold. The egg pendant is 45mm.
Dentelle de Perles Bracelet features round pearls, round white diamonds and sapphires set in 18 carat white gold.
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CAT Cat lovers will find it hard to resist Boucheron’s new High Jewellery cat ring. The white gold design shows a playful cat covered in brilliant white diamonds lying on its back. Named Neko, which means cat in Japanese, the ring draws its inspiration from the Japanese lucky charm “Maneki Neko.” With its paws in the air, as if waving hello, this happy cat has a gem stone “ball of yarn” resting on its tummy.
Boucheron Expands Its Extravagant Bestiary With New Imaginative Animals
HORSE Boucheron turns to Greek mythology and uses the famed winged horse Pegasus as the muse for a striking High Jewellery ring. The artisans at Boucheron crafted Pegasus’s flowing mane and wings out of glimmering paved jewels, set against the gems that adorn the majestic horse’s head. Tucked between the mane and the wing of this ring sits an exquisite central stone.
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oucheron has offered precious animal pieces since its beginning in 1858. The House’s “Extravagant Bestiary” fine jewellery collection has since grown and evolved by leaps and bounds. So much so that today it has become a veritable curiosity cabinet of creatures created to delight and dazzle lovers of finely crafted jewellery.
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This year, iconic Boucheron creations like the chameleon, owl, frog and hedgehog will have new animal friends to play with as the house introduces a number of new pieces. Each design is a glittering example of the legendary craftsmanship of the house’s artisans and the commitment to audacious and surprising jewellery that captivates the imagination.
With its plumes of many colors, the peacock is already one of Boucheron’s favourite animals. This exotic white gold bird gets an unexpected colour combination with an intriguing mix of gems that shimmer along the plumes. As the feathers fan out across the finger, a beautiful central stone stands proudly among the plumes. Anchoring the bold plumes, the body of the bird sparkles with diamonds and gets an added touch of colour as its breastplate gleams with colourful gems.
THE BOUCHERON EXPANDING BESTIARY
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New bejeweled animals will make their debut in the upcoming months. There are both High and fine Jewellery additions to the collection and each piece has the power and unique style to become an iconic Boucheron jewel and cherished collectors’ item.
One of the most endearing species in the animal kingdom is the lemur. The white gold lemur ring charmingly grasps onto the finger, wrapping its arms around the digit, as it gazes up at its owner from wide, life-like, peridot cabochon eyes. Once enchanted by the lemur ring it will be difficult not to succumb to the matching lemur pendant which echoes the ring with its white gold body covered in black and blue sapphires and those spellbinding yellow-green peridot eyes. The pendant delicately dangles from a white gold chain, wrapping its body and tail around the necklace as if perched on a tree branch.
ELEPHANT They say that an elephant never forgets. One thing is for sure, the new Hathi High Jewellery ring is one unforgettable piece of craftsmanship. This precious pachyderm bounds lightly across the finger, effortlessly carrying its Maharadja’s treasure of a cushion-cut central stone on a pink gold carpet festooned with jewels, drawing its inspiration from the ceremonial Indian elephants used by royalty.
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FLAMINGO The statuesque elegance of the flamingo has been transformed into a stunning High Jewellery creation. The colourful bird becomes a beautiful ring circling around the finger in a flurry of a feathered wing and a graceful profile. Each feather is forged out of multi-coloured gems that blend seamlessly and end in a spray of embellished plumes. Sitting atop the wing is a substantial central stone, its impact perfectly offset by the regal side view of the flamingo’s face. 168
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After the success of the Octopus designs, Boucheron decided to return to the ocean in search of another beloved sea creature, alighting upon the strange and intriguing seahorse. A creature that complements the Octopus, but that also resonates with the chameleon, as it too changes colours to adapt to its environment, the seahorse is an ideal addition to the Boucheron bestiary. In its fine jewellery incarnation the seahorse has been given a rich colour palette in darker hues that shade easily from pink and blue sapphires to amethysts and rubies. On a pink gold base, the seahorse comes to life through an extraordinary design that uses threads of gold to define different sections of the body. With its noble head standing proud at the top of the ring, the body of the creature encircles the finger ending with the colourful tail curling tight.
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iffany & Co. presents its collection of Tiffany Keys, celebrating the optimism and hope that accompany new discoveries, endeavours and milestones in life. They signal the opening of the many doors we encounter along the arc of our lives—doors to adventure, to accomplishment, to new horizons—the very brightest of futures. Speaking to our deepest yearnings, Tiffany Keys represent success and mastery. They tap the great potential that rests inside us. They speak to the pleasure of self-expression and personal growth. Interpreted in dazzling white, pink and yellow diamonds set in platinum and 18 karat yellow, white and rose gold, they recall vintage designs from the Tiffany Archives.
Tiffany & Co. Introduces New Atlas Jewelry Designs
Tiffany has the Keys to a Brilliant Future
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iffany & Co. presents new Atlas® jewelry, with the striking beauty that made this celebrated design a fashion icon. The latest options trace the collection’s signature Roman numerals in designs symbolic of strength and freedom. These creations distill style to its very essence; each is bold enough to stand on its own, yet graceful and uncomplicated enough to stack and layer, so that every wearer can tell their own unique story.
Tiffany & Co. was established in 1837 with a commitment to quality and craftsmanship, which launched the company to its reputation today as the world’s premier, luxury jewellers. The necklaces are inspired by vintage keys that once unlocked such precious heirlooms as jewelry and keepsake boxes, albums, diaries and steamer trunks, as well as the doors of private clubs and country manors. Today, Tiffany’s designers are inspired by these centuries-old pieces, to create a collection of chic pendants that capture the intrigue and allure of the vintage keys.
The versatility of Atlas® is achieved with graphic elements of utmost integrity that allows them to be shaped into a crisp pattern as distinctive as its inspiration: the Atlas clock that presides over Tiffany’s Fifth Avenue store, located at the crossroads of energy and evolution in the heart of New York City. The archetype for the collection is the Tiffany Atlas® watch, introduced in 1983, now an icon of style, featuring an hour track of brightly polished Roman-numeral markers, ageless artifacts of a great civilization and its elevated concept of time. While inspired by the classics, this collection is sleek and modern. The elegant pattern shines in new bangles, medallion pendants and band rings, as well as wide cuffs in a weave of numerals. Crafted in 18 karat yellow, white or rose gold, as well as sterling silver, the jewellery generates a sensuous play of light that casts a luster over dressing day and night.
Beautifully crafted by Tiffany artisans with an exacting attention to detail, Tiffany Keys are offered in a range of luxurious designs—some finished with fleur-de-lis patterns of round brilliants; others revealing dazzling starbursts highlighted by fiery Tiffany Yellow Diamonds; yet others, whimsical variations on intriguing kaleidoscope motifs. The collection is complemented by floral-inspired keys, which evoke Tiffany’s storied fascination with the world of nature.
Every variation on the theme reflects a tradition of excellence that over the past 177 years has made Tiffany & Co. an international house of design. Here, the highest standards of quality and craftsmanship are matched by brilliant jewellery that captures the imagination and epitomizes contemporary life. The newest Atlas jewellery collection brilliantly articulates this enduring legacy.
Worn singly or layered, Tiffany Keys are chic reminders that life is an inspired journey. Whether they mark significant events, treasured memories or important accomplishments, they unlock amazing possibilities.
The Tiffany Atlas jewelry collection is available at Tiffany & Co. locations in the Middle East starting April.
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he amulet is a legendary object, a fabled talisman for providing an aura of protection for the wearer. Another word for it is ‘charm.’ And with the Amulette du Cartier collection, the world-renowned Maison introduces a truly charming set of jewellery, designed to inspire dreams. The Amulette collection takes several shapes. As a bejewelled pendant – a magnetic sphere with pebble-like curves, crafted from mother-of-pearl, onyx or diamonds, with either a diamond or an onyx at its centre – the Amulette pendant mesmerises with its openwork back and a host of hidden talents.
The Personal Charm of Amulette du Cartier
Look closer and it becomes much more than a simple charm: there’s a cluster of surprises, among them the arc of solid gold that literally opens like a padlock, leaving room for a wish. The Amulette collection also includes a delicate sautoir necklace, each of its precious beads rendered in white mother of pearl with diamonds. Miniature bracelets add to the collection, designed to be stacked and collected. Adorable talismans of onyx, mother of pearl, or diamonds, they encircle the wearer’s wrist, protecting her dreams.
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Cartier The King of Jewellers
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ounded in 1847 in Paris, Cartier stands as one of the world’s most esteemed and respected Maisons in the luxury goods industry. Cartier has a celebrated history of adorning royalty in the some of the most artistic creations the world has ever known. In fact, Cartier was called "the jeweller of kings and the king of jewellers" by England’s King Edward VII in 1902. Today, the Maison is known worldwide for its signature high jewellery creations and watches, perfumes and prestige accessories - symbols of craftsmanship and elegance, quality and excellence. Over the years, Cartier has developed a whole range of luxury collections of high jewellery, watches, leather goods, fragrances and accessories. From the Trinity ring to the Love bracelet, the Santos de Cartier to the Tank watches, the Panther ring to the Caresse d'Orchidées par Cartier brooch; Cartier is the reference for its design and savoir-faire and has been recognised as an invaluable pioneer for its creations, icons of rarity, style and craftsmanship. Throughout its history, Cartier has established and maintained ties with the art world to stimulate its own creativity, by developing special relationships with artists. Actively encouraging contemporary talents with the launch in 1984 of the Fondation Cartier pour l’art contemporain, Cartier has scaled up art sponsorship and cooperation programmes.
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From Cartier, with love
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elebrating the union of style and craftsmanship, Cartier has crafted a quartet of precious rings encrusted with a blazing display of diamonds. At once wedding rings, solitaires and evening jewellery, these rings make an impression on every occasion, sparkling with femininity and elegance. Artistic and delicate, these are the modern-day incarnations of Cartier style. Flowers interlace in a diamond trellis. A white-gold wedding ring blooms as fresh and youthful as floral lace. Set with 6 pear-cut diamonds, paved with 84 brilliant-cut diamonds and adorned with pear-shaped fancy-cut diamonds, this precious flower is the fruit of Cartier’s extraordinary jewellery- making expertise. Between abstraction and minimalism lies the strength of style. Exploring the simplicity of lines and shapes, 27 bezel-set brilliant-cut and 9 princess-cut diamonds are clutched in a geometry of circles and squares. This timeless ring is the rightful heir of Cartier’s art deco style, with its graphic roundness encased in glittering round diamonds. A triumph of ultimate femininity. A flowing, supple ring is weaved in an expertly executed feat of fine jewellery craftsmanship, the mounting entirely masked by a tangle of baguette- and round-cut diamonds. This ring is an explosion of light, with a scale and sensuality that celebrate ultimate femininity.
The Trinity Ruban, Icon Of Diamonds With the Trinity Ruban Solitaire, Cartier’s legendary threebanded Trinity ring is uniquely re-interpreted as a ribbon of platinum paved with diamonds. Pure and sophisticated, this creative ring is a thrice-tied knot of bands surrounding a diamond. A marriage of splendour and symbolism, crafted with exquisite jewellery expertise, and simply breathtaking.
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Thus Mouawad presents three fabulous collections for this occasion, Flower of Eternity, Love M, and Rosette - all making ideal gifts that can remind mothers of the eternal love that their sons or daughters have for them. “Each piece is a representation of affection, and an articulate expression of love,” Mr. Mouawad said. The Flower of Eternity collection is a stylish line that exudes contemporary glamour, crafted with 18K rose and white gold, and set with diamonds and coloured gemstones. The collection pays tribute to the heart and flowers, and ranges from simple pendants to ornate four-piece sets, resulting in a selection of pieces that are perfect for every mood - from daytime chic to dazzling evening sophistication. Inspired by the M-heart motif that streams through Mouawad designs, Love M empowers the spirit of love, and this finely crafted and delightfully chic collection pays sublime homage to the heart. Handcrafted in 18K white and rose gold, Love M’s remarkable beauty is revealed through exquisite design, subtle curves, and finely polished surfaces accentuated by brilliant white diamonds.
Mouawad's Tribute to Mother's Day: Three Collections
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o celebrate Mother's Day, Mouawad presents a variety of unique pieces crafted in gold and set with diamonds and coloured gemstones. The collections feature beautiful designs of best quality standards. Mouawad believes the occasion marks a chance to gift an iconic piece of jewellery, as these precious pieces evoke the many memories that bond mothers and children, and enable everyone to convey their heartfelt love for the most important person in the world. “Mother's Day is considered a social occasion that is celebrated by the whole family in the Arab world, especially in the Gulf region. It is marked by those who use the occasion to show love and respect for their mothers,” commented Pascal Mouawad, the company's Co-Guardian.
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Featuring rose-cut stones set in 18K rose and white gold, the Rosette pieces are easy to wear through day and night. Fun and wonderfully versatile, and with a classic charm all its own, this collection sparkles with Mouawad diamonds, rubies and sapphires, painstakingly crafted in pave sets. Rosette also uses a vintage cut to elaborate the thoroughly contemporary designs. Ranging from signature interchangeable heart lockets, to earrings, necklaces, pendants, rings and bracelets, Rosette’s look is as eclectic as it is infinitely desirable. Mouawad has been enchanting customers with magnificent jewels and timepieces since 1890. Led by 4th generation Co-Guardians, and backed by more than a century of excellence in its field, Mouawad remains a family business built upon artistic excellence, superb craftsmanship, trust and relationships. The Mouawad brand has spread across the world, while retaining its eminent position as jewellers to royalty, high society, and those that appreciate the finest standards of dazzling craftsmanship.
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Sparkle, Modernity, Femininity – Messika Paris brings its premier diamond jewellery to the UAE
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n what is sure to be exciting news for readers of ‘Simply Abu Dhabi’ and lovers of luxury, the dazzling creations of Messika Paris have joined the prestigious brand portfolio of Ahmed Seddiqi & Sons and will be available at select stores across the UAE. Recognised internationally as diamond experts, with decades of expertise, the Messika vision is one of celebrating a passion for unique and expressive diamond jewellery. Showcasing multiple diverse and expansive ranges of diamond jewellery lines, four popular collections will form the crux of the UAE selection including Promess, Eden, Move and Butterfly, along with additional pieces that have been specially selected to cater to Middle Eastern tastes and aesthetics. Bridging a range of designs and creative styles that span from classic chic to modern and cutting edge, Messika offers customers the chance to indulge their passion for all things beautiful. Sparkle, transparency, modernity and femininity are the watchwords of the Messika universe. The brand emphasises the personality of its founder and creator, Valérie Messika, who is young, joyful, and lives life to the hilt. Her jewellery shines, illuminates and moves to create an irresistible appeal. A signature of Messika jewellery is the extreme flexibility of its pieces. Indeed, the ‘Skinny’ collection allows the pieces to fit every size and flatter every shape, while remaining very comfortable, thanks to the diamonds strands that are made elastic through an arrangement of nano-springs. With Messika joining its prestigious portfolio of luxury brands, Mr. Abdulmagied Seddiqi – Chairman of Ahmed Seddiqi and Sons – commented: “Like us, Messika has a strong vision and legacy, and is a company rooted in passion for their craft – sublime diamond jewellery. Messika designs are immensely popular internationally, and we are pleased to welcome them to their first permanent presence in the United Arab Emirates.” Valérie Messika added her thoughts: “Our partnership with Seddiqi is magical, as it symbolises the meeting of 2 families. Messika has a strong family history, and it is the same on Seddiqi’s side, where the company is family owned and follows a similar ethos. So we understand each other very well, we work the same way: the spirit of family business is very strong. It is an honour for me to be working with them.”
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Atelier Versace Spring / Summer 2014 The elegance and power of the contemporary goddess: a description both of the Atelier Versace vision and its iconic muse Grace Jones. Spring/Summer 2014 was a juxtaposition of glamour and mystery, with Jones’ signature hooded costumes of the 80s being transformed into jumpsuits and body-conscious gowns with dramatic silhouettes. For Spring/Summer 2014 Atelier Versace shows different ways with draping: sculpted and controlled to highlight the lines of sleek tailoring, or liberated and dynamic for fluid silk jersey dresses. Decorative graphic lines were evocative of tattoos, especially when embroidered on invisible tulle. In pure Versace tradition, however, there is no shortage of bling. Metallic bugle beads flash and sparkle in Art Deco geometric embroideries, while silk jersey is often entirely hand-embroidered with dazzling Swarovski crystals. Dresses in black suede are cut and embellished with jet crystals and tiny chains, while loops of Swarovski crystal and crystal embroideries are draped to create the bustier of evening dresses. The Jones-inspired hoods add allure and drama. Full skirts on the longer dresses create elegant volume, made radical in a semi-transparent fabric that’s like liquid glass. The collection is drenched in Versace’s signature jewel-tones – super-saturated yellows, purples and oranges – but is cooled by mint greens and sea-foam blues. Furs are redolent, from a super-light white mink and fox coat worn off the shoulder with an attached hood of Swarovski crystal, or an oversized fox fur stole in the deepest, most regal purple. You’d have no trouble imagining the dramatic looks being worn by Lady Gaga, who indeed is the face of the Spring/Summer 2014 readyto-wear campaign and whose music provided the soundtrack for the Paris show. Like Donatella Versace herself, Gaga and her predecessor Grace Jones embody a sense of daring, of control and power mixed with elegance – truly what Atelier Versace Spring/Summer 2014 is all about.
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or his second outing with Balenciaga, Alexander Wang must have felt some of the pressure come off his shoulders. Upon being appointed creative director last year, Wang was in the spotlight as the fashion world looked to see what the youthful American would bring to the venerated house. And in his debut last autumn, he took the conservative route, showing a careful collection that served as homage to founder Cristóbal Balenciaga.
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Balenciaga’s trademark tulip-shaped bubble skirts are again referenced, this time worked as peplum skirt-shorts and high-waisted trousers. These are paired with crop tops in a pressed and laser-cut printed fabric that – despite the dramatic shape – come across as quite effortless. The sense of ease comes through most in the evening looks, full of short dresses with fluid lines and elegant cape-back jackets in black and white silk.
For the Spring/Summer 2014, collection, Wang once again references the classic signature Balenciaga shapes – cropped and curved, angular yet full of air, sometimes odd but always ultramodern. But this time the trademark Alexander Wang indicators are on display as well – a more relaxed feel, a street-smart attitude in the draping, exhibited for example in the muscle tees, tank tops and running shorts that usher in playfulness and fun to the collection.
The Spring/Summer 2014 accessories enhance the aesthetic with t-strap shoes and laurel-wreath bracelets hinting at this blending of tradition and modernity. While Wang is clearly embracing the history of Balenciaga, the Spring/Summer 2014 collection shows signs the young designer is easing in to the role and bringing a more relaxed, contemporary vibe with him. It hints at great things to come.
Wang is known for his use of innovative fabrics, and this season moulded leather is embroidered, and printed with a swirling floral pattern, marrying couture and 21st century technology.
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old. Graphic. Vibrant. The Céline Spring/Summer 2014 collection sees the Céline woman striking a new stance – the controlled sophistication Phoebe Philo introduced when she took over at the helm in 2010 has exploded into a canvas of graffiti prints, bohemian silhouettes, and dramatic swatches of colour. Free, easy and fun – but exuding strength and a streetwise savvy – Céline for 2014 is a collection for real life. ‘Just power, power to women,’ as Phoebe herself described the feeling behind her newest looks. The look is eclectic, a collage of images that cohere into one vision. An ethnic, tribal flair pairs with a modern sense of street art; handpainted brush strokes sweep across longsleeved tops; striped asymmetrical skirts in fluid materials are paired with more structured button-up shirts, all in a riot of colour and print. Giving shape and depth to the collection is the experimental use of fabrics; beautiful woven jacquards and knits state clearly that the trademark Céline sophistication hasn’t gone away; it’s just been brightened up a bit for summer. Interesting, too, is the interplay of weights: an oversized chunky white sweater, graffiti-inspired writing down the arms, is paired with an ethereal, diaphanous skirt. Clearly inspired by 1980s music and culture, the looks are complemented by broad bangle bracelets in primary colours, metal chokers, slouchy bags, and athletic-inspired sandals from the Céline 2014 accessories line. The evening wear is similarly bold: oneshouldered tunics, accented with metal cutouts, layered over multi-level skirts in contrasting, textured fabrics, strike a powerful modern note that is less tied to an 80s aesthetic, while structured jackets give way to draped finishing to top fluid skirts in graphic swatches of vibrant colour. Coats are undoubtedly a highlight of the Céline Spring/Summer 2014 offering. Showing the same inspiration and palette – some in graffiti prints, some tribal-inspired, others pure bursts of solid primary colour – they are wrapped and belted and topped with wide lapels and dramatic back-turned cuffs. A solid, more structured black slimline coat is detailed with metal-outlined circular cutouts, embodying the powerful silhouette alluded to by Phoebe Philo. Fresh, vibrant and exuding confidence – the true expression of the Céline woman.
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leather goods specifically with them in mind.” Cruciani founder Luca Caprai has said.
ruciani’s inspiration for Spring/Summer 2014 is Saint Tropez in the ’60s: a collection emitting colour, light-heartedness and joie de vivre. White, bronze, and neutrals are offset by fresh bursts of lime, orange, and fuchsia, while the boating colours of marine and china blue are highlighted by summer white.
This Middle East Exclusive Crocodile line strengthens the debut collection of prestige skin leather goods and elegantly complements the Cruciani Ready-to-Wear pieces for Spring / Summer 2014. In addition to crocodile skin, ostrich and saffiano leather are beautifully crafted into elegant bags in three “royal” sizes, as well as small clutches and wallets.
This season’s silhouette is a relaxed, palazzo pyjama style, with destructured lines. Dresses and light outerwear are made of duchesse satin to revive the golden age of Brigitte Bardot, while the knitwear is defined by its sophisticated patterns, complex stitches and drop-stitches of rush and rice. Cashmere, cotton, silk, and linen are the collection’s core materials, with bold inserts of jute.
The shoulder bag features gold plated brass, a detail that gives the accessories an extra touch of elegance. The colour palette embraces the entire rainbow: brown, forest green, orange, red, china blue, baby pink, fuchsia, purple, anthracite, beige, cream and black. The Cruciani main line leather goods are distinguished by the glamorous new logo of two Cruciani C’s mirroring each other to create a heart.The logo is a tribute to the love of luxury and quality that has always defined Cruciani products.
In an exciting development, after the success of its leather goods line last season, Cruciani has launched a set of impeccable quality crocodile skin shoulder bags created exclusively for the Middle East, “Middle Eastern women appreciate top luxury and quality and I wanted to create exclusive
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Spring / Summer 2014 “Be your own oasis…an unexpected source of renewal, serenity and beauty.”—Diane von Furstenberg Inspired by this quote from the iconic Diane von Furstenberg, the Spring/Summer 2014 collection tells a story. The story of the DVF woman. An island unto herself, she emerges in black and white with pops of red, a mix of quiet calm and joie de vivre. In a corset top and flare skirt, she seeks serenity in contrast. She finds clarity in crisp whites; a relaxed tunic mini dress over a flowing pant, a Safari-inspired linen suit, a Sutra duffle with the iconic golden ring. She floats in a haze of Chili Red chiffon, with dramatic rope detail that pulls inward, a reminder of the peace to be found within. A psychedelic zebra print is like a dream, swirling through her mind and across a silk jersey tunic, a flowing pant, a bold minaudière. In sky-high heels, she swaggers on. A flash of white gives way to neutrals, to vertical python prints with pops of orange and oversized African florals. It’s all about proportion as a cropped corset and flare skirt in cork-printed leather flatter the waist. Unexpectedly, an oasis of blue appears, a sea of ever deepening shades culminating in a lively burst of Aztec on a body-contouring column silhouette that falls to the desert floor. Lions and zebras roam across the landscape of a chic poster dress. Novel wrap dresses shine in denim with lace and a feminine soutache and tulle. Evening approaches carrying the promise of an extraordinary sunset. She answers its call in a metallic tunic in laser cut leather; a flowing red gown with specks of gold. An effortless sheath reflects the last of the day’s light as darkness falls in macramé and shadowy folds of chiffon. Turning inward, she is renewed.
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Dolce & Gabbana Spring/Summer 2014
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here’s no mistaking the Dolce & Gabbana look, nor indeed the celebrated duo’s love of their native Italy. The theme for their new Spring/Summer 2014 is an archaeological expedition through antiquity, emphasising the golden coins of the Roman Empire and the Greek ruins of Sicily. As seen in the last few seasons of Dolce & Gabbana looks, Spring/Summer 2014 continues the lighter-than-air trapeze-like silhouettes, featuring both short dresses with flared sleeves as well as slimmer, knee-length versions. While the signature shapes remain, for this new collection the point of departure is the detailed embellishment across the whole line. A lovingly detailed treatment graces every surface, notably in the delicate almond tree branches and blossoms that stretch across the collection, from airy dresses to smart silk coats, to the shoes and accessories. Other prevailing themes this season: a classic polka dot given a fresh spin, landscape prints enhanced with Greek-inspired pattern, Sicilian ceramics and architecture. Rendered in black, red, cream, dark green and of course gold, the collection embraces highly embellished fabric treatments such as macramé, organza lace, brocade, and in a new addition – glossy alpaca. Spring/Summer 2014 accessories from D&G provide the perfect complement to the line. The newest Eva and Sara bags are shown alongside the iconic Sicily and Dolce Bags, crafted in various materials and leathers. For footwear, think column-shaped high-hees, inlaid wood wedges or flat sandals decorated with coins and stones. Headbands and belts made of golden antique coins complete the look – unmistakeably Dolce & Gabbana.
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Spring Summer 2014 Collection
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ooming Colour. The pulse of Masai pattern. A twist of hip-hop. The Pucci girl powerfully strides into the summer season, newly energised with a confident street vibe. Creative Director Peter Dundas has set a speedy pace for this blazing voyage, plucking key pieces from activewear and plunging them, unapologetically, into new lavish embellishment. A sporty element informs this modern picture laced with luxury.
crusted into collages of raffia, thread, bead and crystal. Basketball tank tops are spun from fragile jet beaded tulle. Air tech cropped hoodies are cut from luxurious, perforated plonge leather. The netting on athletic tops? It’s actually a complex web of rich black micro beading. Pucci’s time-honoured emblems get kicked into high gear. The Pucci crest becomes a tough medallion on boxing belts. Pucci graffiti becomes an embroidery motif. The archival 1963 Taitu print swirls on jersey sweat pants, while the classic Lamborghini print has been newly energised with a henna tattoo overlay. All the while, African inspired colour jumps out in electric blue, orange red, and yellow, shocking the eye, with flashes of silver and black.
The world of sports informs easy shapes. Silhouettes are either small or body conscious, or purposefully oversized, billowing with energy. Brief skirts and Dundas’ trademark body-skimming T-shirt dresses in bonded jersey are juxtaposed with sequined track suit pants, boxy cropped varsity tops, and oversized parachute silk printed parkas. The tuxedo jacket is paired with jogging shorts. Giant embroidered fishnet tank dresses are thrown over microshift dresses.
Transparent racing stripes flank the sides of body-skimming beaded gowns or one-piece jumpsuits. Tracksuit bottoms, with rich embroideries, or a sequined sports bra and short skirt, replace the dress. Thrown on with sky high hiking sandals or boxing boots with Masai embroidered heels, and mixed with crocodile hipsacks, the look invents a new category of sporty deluxe.
Athletic wear is transformed by the Pucci atelier and its couture-worthy techniques. Sweat pieces feature lavish embroideries inspired by Masai tribes, 216
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GIORGIO ARMANI WOMENSWEAR - SPRING SUMMER 2014
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ight and shadow. Fabrics that transform and play with volume and form. Subtle equilibriums that reveal an unexpected solidity. Standards turned upside down. Extreme lightness achieved by placing one fabric over another, creating shadowy effects and appearing to split the garment. These are the hallmarks of the Giorgio Armani Womenswear Spring/Summer 2014 collection. The absolute freedom of shape with which Armani embues the clothing generates the sense of a fluidity that is removed from the body, sliding, fluttering, slipping away to reveal the silhouette of the figure in a natural, relaxed stance. Ethereal shapes and fabrics create ultrafeminine billowing silhouettes, all worked in luxurious and elegant tones. Surprising colours mark the collection, with Majorelle Blue surfacing in transparent dresses, tunics and pea coats. There are shades of anemones and the red of the coral in Sciacca, just like a magical garden beneath the sea. Colours are lightened and changed by featherlike jacquard silk; by embroidered, elaborate fabric; by the near-ephemeral tricot of silk and elasticised cotton. For the evening, floral prints are embroidered to give a double effect, or detailed with the same embroidery on the front only. In the same spirit of metamorphosis, flat boots become new ankle boots with a plexiglass heel, leaving the foot bare. The new bags for 2014 finish the look, from citrus-toned clutches, to shell-coloured totes accented in soft pink suede.
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his season, Matthew Williamson revisits the essence of his acclaimed debut, Electric Angels, with a collection that taps into the spirit of that woman, grown-up, and reimagined for now. Dragonflies, which first appeared in his hit 1997 show embroidered onto cardigans, now flutter over silk georgette gowns and evolve into an abstract graffiti-style print. Digital printing techniques are traded in favour of drawings executed by hand. Botanical illustrations are further worked with graffiti markings, while a naïve-daisy printed silk gown charmingly looks like it has been doodled in felt tip pens. Aside from energetic pops of bright colour, Williamson explores monochrome in greater depth together with a new emphasis on silhouette and form – tailored jackets, bra-top dresses, roomy cropped trousers in sketchy Ikat – this is a collection with focus on separates and glamorous daywear. Intricate embroideries enrich everything from a pair of cuffed jeans to skirts, while those daisies appear 3D in a series of lemon dresses with lacy petal applique. Meanwhile, wasp waists are cinched with Perspex belts bestowing a bejewelled transparent-winged dragonfly. Williamson’s handbag offering evolves to include totes and miniature cross-body bags, zinging with accents of neon or copper metallic, while oversized mirrored sunglasses echo the spirit of the collection.
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Mulberry Spring/Summer 2014
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he Mulberry Spring/Summer 2014 collection marks the end of Emma Hill’s tenure as creative director for the luxury British brand. As such, it revisits 'Le Style Anglais' with its laid back interpretation of English heritage. A fitting send-off to the woman who elevated the luxury bag-maker to an international brand and ready-towear line, the Spring/Summer 2014 Mulberry show celebrates Hill’s luxe and modern take on classic English tropes. Despite it being her last, the Spring/Summer show was not a sad one. If anything, it felt more like a celebration of her reign, and indeed of all things English. Staged in London’s legendary Claridge’s Hotel, the catwalk was reminiscent of a stately home, down to the moss, ivy and roses. In tribute to the proper English tradition of Afternoon Tea, guests were served miniature sandwiches and pastries piled decadently on tiered cake stands. And in a humourous twist, one model was even accompanied down the catwalk by an English bulldog sporting a waistcoat in the same jacquard print as the model’s. Both town and country, the collection is influenced by modern overtones from Sixties London, juxtaposed with the opulence of a quintessential English country house and gardens. Many of Mulberry’s signatures can be seen: pea coats, pyjama-inspired suits, floral silk dresses. And of course – what put Mulberry on the fashion map – a sophisticated range of luxury handbags, clutches, and envelope shaped portfolios, rendered in softest leather and available in a variety of colours and finishes. An apt tribute to the woman who made Mulberry what it is today, the collection embraces both familiarity and modernity, working with classic prints and textures reinterpreted to create new signatures imbued with Mulberry's inherent British wit.
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Roberto Cavalli Spring/Summer 2014 Ready To Wear
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A Dream Collection’ is how Roberto Cavalli described working on the new Spring/Summer Ready to Wear line for 2014. Celebrated by Hollywood stars, the Italian designer puts his customer in the spotlight this season, urging the women who wear his clothes to make their dreams a reality, believing every occasion is a special one. Embellished fabrics and unique workmanship characterise the collection, which is beautifully glamorous without being flashy. Rendered in black, white and silver, to pale pinks and ethereal greens, Cavalli for Spring masterfully evokes the screen sirens of the 1930s, with a bias-cut backless gown, Art Deco-inspired caftans, and fringe for days. Of course, it wouldn’t be a Cavalli collection without clingy knits and lace, or a fitted motorcycle jacket or two, this time in metallic reptile finishes, paired with high-waisted tone on tone textured metallic jeans. Punky touches such as studded belts and chain-embellished handbags are pure Cavalli. Feminine notes soften the hard edges, however, whether the ethereal spaghetti-strapped top or the delicate beading at the hem of the ombré shaded gown. Fur stoles adorn the dresses, which tie at the back with long, tasselled laces, while impossibly delicate gladiator sandals reach up to the knee. For Cavalli, this is subtle, delicate, but without losing his trademark brashness in materials – or attitude. And we wouldn’t have it any other way.
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STEPHANE ROLLAND Summer 2014 Haute Couture Collection The new Stéphane Rolland Summer 2014 Haute Couture collection is a burst of light.
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etween dawn and dusk, Stéphane Rolland sculpts material like never before, in a minimal palette of yellows and whites, subtly eclipsed with black tones. Each creation defies the rules of space in an organic and adaptive way. Effortlessly floating in clouds of mango, tangerine and saffron, Rolland’s haute couture gowns for 2014 resemble those that would adorn classical statues, but without rigidity or heaviness. A deceptively simple off-white close-fitting gown is far from stark – embellished with lighter-than-air feathers at the hip, the creation evokes a delicate bird about to take flight. An off-the-shoulder asymmetrical dress appears to simply hover over the wearer, like soft new-fallen snow. A breathtaking fishtail gown in fiery orange speaks of a butterfly bursting from its cocoon in summer, or is it a sun goddess? Jumpsuits are adorned with oversized suspended gazar and organza arches, architectural flourishes that elevate the elegant baseline to something otherworldly. Basques raise and reveal lichen embroideries; a spider-web worked black top is paired with a pristine white skirt, ornamented with a flourish of organza. Origami appliqués and beaded embroideries continue the illusion of plumage, and bathe the collection in ethereal light. Challenging the definitions of architectural space, a ribbed foliage lands on the shoulder and wraps the leg, swaying the walk. Peplum tops form tulips over fitted skirts, in vibrant springtime hues. For evening, the Rolland collection includes voluminous black gowns dotted with stars like the night sky, and fluted columns the colour and shape of daffodils. Finally, every design is punctuated with vinyl and varnished leather sculptures. At once classic and futuristic, the silhouette is uncluttered, the cut is assertive and the look is sensual. All this is accessorised by sophisticated footwear, double-strapped at the ankle, and statement belts. Determined and luminous, the Summer 2014 Stéphane Rolland woman impresses with a new modernity, delicacy and subtlety.
STEPHANE ROLLAND
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TOD’S FOR SPRING / SUMMER 2014
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he Tod’s Spring/Summer 2014 collection marks the first with Alessandra Facchinetti at the helm. The former designer for MiuMiu, Gucci and Valentino introduces her take on the Tod’s woman – feminine, yet confident – with a collection that marries urban chic with retro style. In keeping with its heritage as a luxury leather goods legend, Tod’s for Spring/Summer 2014 takes the material to new heights: A butter-soft cinched-waist skirt in lacquer red and rust, an open jacket with patchwork in sumptuous suede, striking wide leather belts that wrap the waist, leather petals and fringes on softly draped dresses. Menswear-inspired shirts provide a crisp counterpoint to the fluid shapes, here peeking out from a deep red trouser suit with leather belt, there topping a gracefully voluminous skirt in black eyelet. The men’s white shirt finds new form too in a sporty dress, with billowing sleeves pushed up to the elbow and a wide neutral belt cinching the waist, emphasising the ‘oversized’ feel but still maintaining feminine lines. Of course, it wouldn’t be a Tod’s collection without its signature accessories, such as the classic Tod’s loafer and large leather bags adorned in soft fringe, ballerina flats with criss-cross buckles, sumptuous two-toned weekend bags and smaller versions with spiky embellishments.
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TOD’S FOR SPRING / SUMMER 2014
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Trussardi
Spring / Summer 2014
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ummer is a time for adventure. This season, in a collection designed by Gaia Trussardi, the Trussardi woman takes a road trip through the American West, accessorised with her straw cowboy hat and ready to take on the world. In the spirit of the West, the look is strong, confident – yet unmistakeably feminine. Menswear-inspired suits in bold red or soft blue make impressive statements with their clean lines and impeccable tailoring. Softer silhouettes appear in stunning off-white trousers, jackets, and long-line skirts, the neutral palette serving as the perfect canvas for the organdie foulard tied at the neck in a python print. The foulard pairs perfectly too with the menswear shirt over high-waisted cinched trousers, all in natural hues – and all tailored with incredible fluidity and style. The menswear look finds its most dramatic presentation in a long, red python-print dress, the combination of edgy print, structured lines, and floaty material creating a profile that is at once sleek and fierce.
Accessories for Spring/Summer 2014 continue the theme. In addition to the print foulards and straw hats, the Trussardi Rider bags in leather, embellished with shiny and matte python inserts, are ready for travel. The look is effortless, distinctive, and pure Trussardi.
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here is no doubt Victoria Beckham has silenced any criticism that dismissed her as merely a celebrity-turned-designer. For seasons now, Beckham has proved time and time again that she is here to stay. The British designer's shows are among the most anticipated events at Fashion Week, and she’s earned scores of loyal fans in the fashion world. With the Spring/Summer 2014 collection, Beckham shows how far she has come. Alongside her signature fitted dresses, the collection this year begins to explore shape more extensively, experimenting with proportion and volume. The body-conscious fit starts to relax, with loose ruffled tunics, pleated dresses and skirts, slouchy trousers with generous sleeveless jackets. Her trademark dresses are still very much at the forefront, this time with pleated panels and swooping hems, the rigidity of geometric designs offset by feminine drapey fabrics. Perfectly scaled for the new proportions, a collection of stunning Nappa leather camera bags and clutches bear the geometric patterns from the dresses, while sumptuous fuschia totes add a burst of colour to Beckham’s signature black and white palette. What is evident in the Spring/Summer 2014 collection is Beckham’s interest in balance: the balance between conceptual design and wearable attitude; tailored lines and curvy waves; fluidity and structure; masculine and feminine.
VICTORIA BECKHA M
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This season’s emphasis on shape shows a new side of Beckham, one more a bit at ease and relaxed —but still sharp and ultra-stylish. Like the woman herself
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VICTORIA BECKHA M
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VICTORIA BECKHA M
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S I M PLY FA S H ION MENS By Jor da n a Ly nc h
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Balenciaga Men Spring / Summer 2014
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n his inaugural outing with the Balenciaga Men’s collection, Alexander Wang conjures up a prototypical and time-honoured theme, but incorporates topical style with effortless flair. Trousers and jackets are slim-fitting and simple in line, coats and shirts are extended in length for increased aesthetic and dramatic impact. Textured leather sits sharply amidst traditional woven fabrics and shape; form and silhouette are astutely controlled. The use of leather continues into a minimalistic jacket with clean lines and a safari jacket carrying an inherent and subtle military motif. Black dominates the collection but also serves as a visual counterpoint to cleverly placed patterned tweed, and subtle embossing and textures on PVC overcoats. Sandy browns and striking cobalt blues gave an earthly context to the use of sleek satin, nylon, and vinyl. The accessories range features leather bags and briefcases with traditional straps, handles and zipped fastenings, and ankle boots and Oxfords with thick soles in various leathers.
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Brioni Spring/Summer 2014 Collection
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he Spring/Summer 2014 collection from Brioni blossoms vigorously with hallmark design cues inspired by Rome’s cultural heritage, with a remembrance of the spirit and allure of 1950s Italian cinema and the uniquely recognisable styles of Luchino Visconti and Helmut Berger. With sophisticated elegance, creative director Brendan Mullane confidently revisits Brioni’s legacy, bringing it together beautifully with a secure contemporary feel and a bold use of traditional textiles, clean graphics and clever composition. Fabrics are embellished with image and form, where angular lines and clean cuts bolster and embolden the historic Brioni silhouette with consummate ease. Pattern and colour remain central themes; the deftly subtle mixing easily with the delicately sublime to create a series of exquisite juxtapositions that simply exude quality and individuality. Sharp edges and classic lines provide the backdrop for an eclectic amalgam of texture and colour to explode. Accessories comprise travel bags in soft deerskin, subtle calfskin and substantial suede. Shoes are luxurious and pleasing in dark blues, greys and burgundy and emerge in calfskin, suede and crocodile. Yellow gold provides flashes of rich, provocative colour in a complementary range of cufflinks, tie clips and elegant collar studs designed in collaboration with Fredrikson Stallard. The essential inclination of this collection is rooted in a refreshingly current overhaul of time-honoured and handsome form. Suits and jackets are sensitively tailored without losing the hard edge and vivid architecture of invigorating, up-to-date design. Accessories and embellishments are perfectly weighted and provide perfect counterpoint to this substantial, impeccable apparel.
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Stefano Gabbana & Domenico Dolce
Dolce & Gabbana Men’s Spring/Summer 2014
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rawing inspiration from the rich depths of Sicilian mythology, the 2014 Dolce & Gabbana Men’s Summer collection displays the hallmarks of both creative design and inspirational cultural influences that merge together in the final outcomes to create stunning results. Strong tailoring and an open-minded creative approach seem to form the core values of the work. Dynamic prints of ancient Greek gods such as Zeus and Apollo create motifs that recur throughout the collection, with classic mythology further represented by prints of the antique coins of the cities of Catania, Syracuse, Taormina, Enna and Messina. Typical rigour abounds in the strength of the tailoring and comparative research that has always formed one of the mainstays of the integral style of Dolce & Gabbana. And deeper meaning appears significant in the use of Zeus to imply creation and power, alongside Apollo to represent the sun, light and positive energy and beauty. Various weaves of linen and silk, shantung and cotton combine to form perfect canvases for the muted, subtle printing that gives the appearance of ghostly but decorative temple walls or ancient tapestries. Whites, browns and beiges dominate the printed series, with blues and blacks featuring in the tailored suits and reds, blues, silvers and gold embellishing various aspects of the collection. In terms of accessories, splendid shoes of intertwined leather, crochet or raffia; sturdy sandals reminiscent of the ancient footwear of gods; and robust leather weekend bags are available, as well thought out and notable accompaniments to the collection.
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Giorgio Armani with models
Giorgio Armani Menswear Spring / Summer 2014
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ontrasting genres are powerfully combined in this electric collection that uses an underlying theme of sport to transform opposites and counterpoints into a harmonious and superbly balanced portfolio of clothing. The resulting range displays an ethos of technical brilliance that is expertly blended throughout the compilation to evoke coordinated gratification and elegance. Cosmopolitan cultured moods are transformed through sleek lines and fitted fabrics in a way that brings originality and vigour to the collection. Bold contrasts between tonal shapes are combined with hot colours and beautifully lurid tints. Armani employs a bold interplay between colours, in expert fashion, to create wondrous effects and inventive, intricate illusions. The palette runs a colourful gamut from sensitive pastels through to mild, yet rich colours. Whites mark out the boundaries between subtle flesh tones and warm pinks. Fabric and leather are brought into play with texture and patina that perfectly balances the range.
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Hermès Men’s Collection, Spring/Summer 2014
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n her twenty-fifth year at Maison Hermès, Véronique Nichanian has created an unusually simple and effortless collection that oozes class. Comprising t-shirts, anklelength trousers and jumpsuits, the collection focuses on comfort and style above formality and structure. Quality fabrics and inventive use of iconic prints make for a fresh and light ensemble that embodies freedom and quality. Timeless cuts and superbly balanced materials make for a vivid, yet understated, mood that triumphantly uses muted styling to resounding effect. Blues and navy blues work effortlessly and effectively with sharp aquamarine, cool white and warm grey. Richer sienna tones contrast with sky blue, evoking a feeling of clarity and a reserved palette. The overall feel of the collection remains strikingly simple, subtle and uncluttered. Cotton and linen take centre stage alongside gabardine, leather and silk, with a full range of accessories such as slip-on shoes made from soft leather, sandals with rope soles, and canvas bags.
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Roberto Cavalli Spring/Summer 2014 Men’s Collection
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oberto Cavalli, along with his son Daniele, has created a crushingly stylish range that revels in contemporary elegant style with nuances of historical flair. Eastern influences simmer in the background as this collection delights with a beautiful, rich blend of classical variety. The Cavalli brand oozes a respectable, yet indulgent tone, whilst maintaining razor sharp and edgy cuts. There’s a juxtaposition between strong imagery, creative textures and impressive pattern, prints and embroidered detail that catches the eye. Familiar iconic items reappear in the form of biker jackets, superbly dovetailed into the collection. Embossed and printed leather features with braided zip pulls and elegant slim tailoring. Accessories are tangible, with patent leather loafers, silk bow ties, printed silk ties, strapped leather sandals. The colours are deep and mysterious, resplendent in evening shades from a warm, Eastern palette; rich burgundy, natural beige, full midnight blue and stark white resonate, whilst leather, silk, cotton and wool tie in perfectly with jacquard to offer a complementary range of materials.
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Valentino Spring/Summer 2014 Collection
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he Valentino collection by Pierpaolo Piccoli and Maria Grazia Chiuri provides elegant apparel with a wide range of beautifully created items from uniform-inspired designs right through to relaxed ultra-casual wear. Cotton t-shirts reside perfectly with crocodile leather flip flops, adding a level of quality that redefines the humble item. Sharp suits add a formal flourish, whilst offering technical and useable outfits that feel ready to wear and yet fascinatingly reinvented. Dark blue hues meet earthy charcoal, military olive, white and grey, with beige, burgundy and indigo forming the visual counterpoints. Cotton and cashmere, denim and chambray all feature alongside technical fabrics that tie the collection together tightly. Stylish accessories are abundant with moccasins, crocodile leather flip-flops, espadrilles, clutches, and aviator sunglasses, as well as classic sneakers being added to complement the collection.
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Valentino Spring/Summer 2014 Collection
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Versace Spring / Summer 2014
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he 2014 Versace Men’s collection is underpinned by the themes of athleticism, idealism, discipline, and freedom. There’s a proud athleticism to the physique, with sports tape – a decoration which appears as a detail on garments – worn like a freshly inked tattoo. Neat and precise silhouettes with light, luxurious tailoring are cut from iridescent materials, framing the body at its finest and creating a complementary composition that radiates vigour. The idealism and ethos of Versace design is reinterpreted with gold-studded jackets, baroque and optical print shirts, and gold Medusa-studded gladiator sandals. The precision and discipline of military life is evoked in the garments, in washed finishes and faded, rich, creamy tones, reminiscent of worn and beaten fabrics left to fade in the strength of the direct sun. Extravagant prints are effective and striking, such as knitwear featuring photographs of Marilyn Monroe by Bert Stern, the images colour-blocked and over-painted by hand for effect. Footwear is both smart and soft, with slip-on shoes in soft leather that can be worn with the back trodden down for added relaxed comfort and an ease of style that is effortless.
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Vilebrequin Summer 2014
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ombining casual elegance with freedom and humour; originality with impeccable taste and quality, Vilebrequin is the ultimate reference in men’s swimwear. It all began in the 1970s in the chic beach resort of Saint-Tropez, the place to be seen for the world’s rich, famous and beautiful. Inspired by surfers’ trunks, Vilebrequin embarked on a new and colourful originality in men’s swimwear – and soon emerged as the only luxury men’s fashion brand dedicated exclusively to beach and swimwear. The vibrant Summer 2014 Vilebrequin line is inspired by Florida, the Sunshine State – and it’s easy to see the spirit of fun, relaxation and Florida’s beautiful natural resources on colourful display throughout the entire collection. The bright saturated colours reflect the hipness of its hottest city, Miami, while turquoise and coral evoke the blue waters and reefs of the Florida Keys. Fun prints depict Florida’s sealife - flamingoes, turtles, or sharks – in such vibrant hues as bright yellow, carrot orange or tomato red. Prefer a more understated look? Longer board shorts in crisp blue seersucker lend a sophisticated air to the collection.
Devoted to quality craftsmanship, Vilebrequin settles for nothing less than excellence. Mastering the art of detail, the design of exclusive prints and impeccable manufacturing standards, Vilebrequin will always remain the epitome of casual elegance.
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Z Zegna Spring/Summer 2014 C o llection
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he 2014 Z Zegna Collection is inspired by contrasting opposites, with a focus on eventwear. Revisited with a younger and more forward-thinking vibe, a relaxed and unconventional look is achieved that nevertheless remains highly attentive to the tenets of impeccable tailoring. Embued by a mood of youth, dynamism and energy, the collection mixes eclectic energy with dapper style. Relaxed jackets are paired with loose fitting trousers and accessorised with knitted cummerbunds. Graphical layering adorns stretch cotton bed shirts and knitted mock t-shirts as they are overlaid by generous blazers with side vents, shawl collars or contrasting lapels. Voluminous yet sharp lines trace the body, underscored by stylised denim jackets and summer raincoats. Cropped blousons and elongated field jackets, featuring utilitarian zips, also convey a deconstructed attitude. The engaging colour palette starts with shades of deep jade, intense purple and navy, and continues into vaporous pastels of lemon, lilac, clay and powdered pink. Research of innovative fabrics remains at the heart of the Z Zegna tradition. Technical wool and high performance mohair blend with crisp taffetas; the traditional moirÊ textures and unexpected jacquards are applied to lightweight cottons and pure silk. At the other end of the spectrum – authentic, sturdy cottons and exclusive seersuckers. A lively collection that transposes quality and technical strength with audacious styling and dynamic tailoring that generously enhances the impact of the superb, inspirational apparel.
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S I M PLY BE A U T I F U L By S op h i e M cM u l l a n
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s the seasons come and go, it is an exciting time of year when spring rolls around. A time for new beginnings, fresh starts and a chance to re-think elements of your lifestyle.
Simply Beauty looks forward to upcoming products from all our favourite cosmetic brands, slowly but surely coming to the forefront. For this issue I am looking at a select few brands that have incredible quality in their products and always deliver impeccable results. For skincare and makeup, I have been impressed by the new offerings from Clarins. As always, they have been influenced by the power of nature and science combining to produce beautiful results. Prepare to renew your skin for another season and the best way to do this is by using cleansing and hydrating products. I’ll show you the lotions that can make you look like you’ve just had a facial… Then for a burst of colour, think of subtlety and lightness. Play with textures and hues to enhance your features in the most natural of ways. Complexions are lifted with cushiony soft cream blushers and glow-giving warm powders. Have some fun and don’t be afraid to try new things! I’ve had the immense pleasure of interviewing Hollywood hair stylist Philip B, who took time out to answer my professional and personal questions. I’ve been a fan of his products for many years for their astounding results and luxurious status. Read on to learn how a typical day for Philip could mean jetting off to Europe and whose hair he still wants to get his hands on! The French are renowned for delicate yet powerful fragrances and now Parfums de Marly has a new release for 2014. Celebrating the heritage and royal prestige of their country, this ‘Essence’ encapsulates all that is chic and spirited about their history. I hope you enjoy reading this issue. Please feel free to get in touch and follow me via twitter: @beautisserie and view my website at www.beautisserie.com which showcases my makeup artistry and other Simply Abu Dhabi articles. Have a great season and let’s delight in bringing some light back to our lives!
Sophie McMullan Beauty Editor
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Parfums de Marly have continued their loyalty to history with the release of a new fragrance for 2014.
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ince the XVIIIth century, King Louis XV would request a new scent every day for his apartments. Parfums de Marly is keeping this spirit alive with the fragrance creations they produce. The King was a great admirer of horses and regularly attended races to revel in the splendour the animals showcased. His lavish lifestyle fed through to every element of his life, with receptions and festivities all carrying his unmistakeable signature of luxury. His father, King Louis XIV was just five years old when his own father died, but he was to reign for an extraordinary seventy-two years, the longest of any monarch in Europe before or since. He is credited with the famous phrase "L'Etat, c'est moi" ("I am the State") and, after his amazing life-span and achievements (France fought three major wars during his reign) it is no surprise that he felt omnipotent, his modesty returning, as it should to all men on their death-beds, when he uttered the noble words "Je m'en vais, mais L'Etat demeurera toujours" ("I depart, but the State will always remain"). Louis XV was also five years old when he ascended the throne in 1715, but most commentators and historians view him as a pale shadow of his mighty father - a 'perpetual adolescent called to do a man's job' was one of the more charitable comments. This illustrious history is an important back-story to the heritage, prestige and royal tradition of the exclusive Parisian company Parfums de Marly, based in Neuilly-sur-Seine. France's Sun King, Louis XIV converted a royal hunting lodge into what became the Palace of Versailles. He therefore needed a new location for the Royal Hunt, and so it was that in 1679, the architect Jules Hardouin-Mansart began building Chateau de Marly du Roi on land close by. Marly was to become, for the Sun King, a place to relax away from the suffocating pressures of the Court.
An animal of strength, power and regal status, they adorn the packaging of the Parfums de Marly crest. Symbolising all that is traditional and respected, they enhance the importance of Paris and its fragrance domination. From the ‘Royal Essence Collection’, now comes a new perfume for women. Named after one of the earliest recorded stallion horses known as ‘Royal Mare’, ‘Darcy’ is a celebration of this legend. Elegant, sophisticated and noticed, this beautiful tribute allows the French history to live on and revel in the ancestry of the thoroughbred. An exuberant infusion of complimenting scents, this fragrance is unique in its presence. Sparkling bergamot and citrus accents mix with sweet floral notes of rose and jasmine, which then lead into white musk and patchouli. Gourmand notes can be sensed with woody influences also coming through. All of these elements are sure to enhance a woman’s seductive and debonair character. Glancing at the glamorous golden bottle, its appearance exudes refinement, grace and a trés chic personality, typically French. A nod of respect to its royal roots, to view and touch this bottle is to experience its prestigious background. Paying homage to one of the most remarkable horses of the past, ‘Darcy’ continues the equestrian legacy to our present day, allowing all women to revel in Parfums de Marly’s unique tradition.
The French sculptor Charles Antoine Coysevox was commissioned in 1701 to create a grouping of equestrian subjects for Marly, which he did, in marble, on each side of the 'horse-pond’. The Renommee et Mercure, both sitting astride Pegasus, represented the personal dominance of Louis in peace and war. A year after the death of Louis XIV, the statues were moved to the western entrance to the park in 1719, and eventually his maturing son Louis XV developed a renewed interest in the estate at Marly, and had a second group of horses installed in 1739, sculpted in Carrerra marble by Coysevox's nephew Nicolas Coustou. The Louvre describes Coustou's pieces as representing 'the struggle between two wild forces: an untamed horse and a naked man'. The incredible ‘Marly Horses’ sculpture was commissioned by the King and created by notorious artist Guillaume Cousteau in 1745. These can still be marvelled at today as they have taken pride of place in the Louvre Museum in Paris, since 1984. However, replicas are also positioned on both corners of the Avenue des Champs Élysées. The most famous street in Paris, these horses have marked the beginning of this avenue since 1789 and are vaulted on high pedestals for all to see.
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ith Hollywood stars, industry professionals and prestigious royalty as his regulars, Philip B is a hair stylist to be noticed. Fully established in his field, respected by his peers and frequently called upon by his A-list clients, once you’ve had the Philip B experience, you won’t look back.
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Describe an average day in your life… It depends. I wake up, take a morning flight to a European city and meet with distributors or stylists or run training sessions. On other days, I work on designing products or researching new formulas, botanicals and raw materials. I want my customers to get the best that they can get.
California has always been his working playground but there came a time when using products from other brands just didn’t meet his, or his clients’, demands. So as an innovator and creative mind, Philip set out to develop his own products. No longer did he want to use the typical combinations of detergent, water and fragrance. His line was to contain natural concentrations and botanical oils, all tested on his willing clients.
Tell us about some of your favourite celebrity clients… I love Sandra Bullock. She always makes me laugh and is totally unpretentious and fun, and she has gorgeous hair. I also love Julianne Margulis. She's beautiful, inside and out.
The primary concern was over-processed, colour-treated, damaged and unruly hair. Starting out at home, mixing together various specific ingredients, the products started to deliver amazing results. This then led to Philip working with labs and scientists to produce even more advanced formulas, whilst still maintaining his botanical ethos. The first product to gain a following was the ‘Rejuvenating Oil’. A few drops onto the scalp and the build-up of excess cells, sebum and product deposits are diminished. What you’re left with is an impeccably clean and fresh feeling, with your hair plumped and smoothed. Healthy hair is restored and deeply conditioned but without imparting an oily residue. Within a short time, Philip B’s clients were continually ordering repeat purchases of his oil. This then led to it going into local retail in 1991 and once beauty editors were spreading the word, it sold out. Philip was on to a winner and decided to diversify and expand his range with ideas for many other products to help his clients achieve incredible hair, at home. It’s not only the hair that is cared for; body, skin and mind are all considered. A sensory journey, no matter what product you try. As far as shampoos and conditioners go, your first class ticket to a perfected mane would be to try the Russian Amber Imperial line. Designed to treat coloured hair and restore vibrancy, the unique ingredients will also repair damage. Weightless strands will be frizz-free and soft to the touch whilst also preventing your colour’s tone from fading. Eleven L-amino acids work to enhance the strength of the hair and its rich texture means that a little goes a long way. The Russian Amber Imperial Shampoo is infused with healing amber oil to calm aggravated hair. The newest member of the Philip B product family and creating transforming results of its own is the ‘Oud Royal Forever Shine Collection’. Promising ‘Mega-Bounce’ and ‘Mirror-like Shine’, we can be safe in the knowledge that whatever Philip B states can be achieved, is nothing but the truth. Botanical ingredients working their miracles as ever, these are now on a ‘time-release’ schedule, drip-feeding the hair with small molecules to hydrate each hair shaft, inside and out. Safflower Oleosomes are the key element here, instilling a high shine finish together with voluminous movement. This range is a big seller in London’s Harrods department store as well as being the best seller in Dubai. New clients to Philip B’s transformative products are joining his hair care revolution all the time. Free from sulphates, phthalates, parabens, formaldehyde, propylene glycol and sodium chloride, you can rest in the knowledge that your hair is being given the best treatment without any nasty additives. Coloured hair and straightened hair can also safely use this line, as sweet blue lupine peptides protect colour whilst again L-Amino acids tame any frizz. Whatever product you choose to try, be sure that your hair, body and lifestyle will never be the same again. Whether you indulge in some ‘White Truffle’ hair care or add some ‘Chocolate Milk Body Wash’ to your routine, luxury and incredible results await you. Never before have natural ingredients created such a stir in the industry worldwide, with Philip B’s clients forever staying loyal to him and his concoctions. I was lucky enough to ask the man himself some questions, here’s what he had to say… What was it like starting out in Hollywood? It was fun. Movie stars, glamour, glitz - I was young and got a job in a really good salon and worked my way up.
Are there any tresses that you still want to get your hands on? Kate Middleton. Do you have a favourite product? My Rejuvenating Oil. At the end of the day, it’s all about the foundation. Without that oil, I couldn’t work miracles on these women. Oud Royal is your newest release; what was the inspiration for this line? The spiritual essence of oud and to develop a super-active, healing product for the hair. I came across oud essence on my travels in the Middle East and fell in love with the exotic, smoky, woody, sensual scent. I was surprised that the Western world had no idea; other than Tom Ford and a select few, it hadn’t caught on. How about the future, are you aiming to cure any other hair woes? Yes. I’m always looking for solutions for damaged hair and I’m currently working on a new formula to treat thinning and weak hair. Do you have any products coming up that you can tell us about? Insta-Thick, a revolutionary new hair thickening spray. It makes all hair thicker, fuller and more luxurious, and the effect lasts for days. What do you do in your valuable free time? Make new music mixes, socialise, cook dinner for friends, ride my bike and swim. Do you believe in fate? Yes, when I look at the big picture it’s interesting to see how things have fallen into place and how everything seems to interconnect. What’s the most satisfying part of your job? Making people smile, seeing them look 10 years younger, seeing their hair move in a gorgeous and youthful way. Does diet affect our hair? If so, what has the best nutritional value? Yes. It’s important to have enough protein and dark leafy green vegetables. Vitamin A is so essential. Where do you see the future of hair styling going? There are no boundaries, no limits. People are open to extensions in a new way. Creativity has gone wild. But there’s still that focus on having beautiful, healthy-looking hair. At the end of the day, if you take care of your crowning glory, you’ll always feel like a queen. What advice would you give budding entrepreneurs out there? Follow your passion. What has surprised you the most? How many people don’t really understand what goes into a good shampoo and conditioner. Quality ingredients used in effective concentrations - it makes such a difference. And the lack of knowledge about hair: people know far more about their skin than they do about their hair. Who is the Philip B woman/customer? The educated consumer. What’s the best piece of advice you’ve been given? Don’t stop till you live your dreams! Also, change is exciting. Keep it rolling and don’t get stale!
What was a big turning point for you, professionally? When I started designing my botanical treatments for clients and word of mouth spread. Soon, there was so much public demand, internationally, that I had to focus on my business full-time. When did you discover that your talent was unique? When important people in the industry started telling me how talented I was, and how different and powerful my treatments and techniques were. Celebrities started calling in the middle of the night and on weekends with hair emergencies. I remember Paramount Studios called me once to help Sharon Stone because her hair was breaking during the filming of a movie. From the first treatment, her hair responded 150% and so they asked me to keep going. Was there a moment when you thought…’I’ve made it’? When Vogue magazine, in 1993, said that my 4-step treatment left your hair feeling like the heroine in a romance novel. And Forbes magazine said that it was one of the top 100 things in the world that are worth every penny. 319 S I M P LY A B U D H A B I
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larins is a noted cosmetic brand, celebrated the world over for combining the powers of nature with the intelligence of science. Harnessing the powers of ingredients from our own planet and infusing them with high-tech know-how allows the Clarins professionals to offer us a vast array of products to enjoy. Founded in 1954 by medical student Jacques CourtinClarins, Clarins is a much loved and sought after luxury French skincare, makeup and fragrance brand. With celebrities, industry professionals and loyal customers, their brand and success continues to go from strength to strength. In 1980 Clarins was marked as the top-selling skincare brand in France and in 1981 it expanded its availability to the United States. Europe was the next follower when in 1990 it was the top seller throughout the territory. Then to today, it is available in 150 countries around the world. Not only successful in making women and men look their best, their ethos to maintain their brand as fair trade and friendly to the environment has been of utmost importance. Working with the best ethobotanists and ethopharmacologists, nature is the first and last element to be considered. Ingredients are derived from varying locations whilst ensuring the natural world is respected and protected. As is our skin. Known for being dermatologically tested and suitable for sensitive skin types, once you find a product that works, and there are many, you will return to discover more. One of their many best sellers is the Clarins Hand Cream. Released in 1979 and relied upon to protect and nourish even the roughest of skin textures, this product creates a magical ‘glove-like’ shield from the elements. Soothing sesame oil, strengthening Japanese mulberry and protective shea butter combine with aloe for unique results. With our hands being an incredibly tell-tale area, applying this cream will also minimise skin ageing. Chapped, weather-beaten, dry and coarse skins are no contest for this product. Even proving to strengthen nails & cuticles too.
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Clarins Skin Illusion
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‘One with the power of two’ states the huge success that is the Clarins ‘Double Serum’. Awarded no less than fiftyseven prestigious beauty awards from worldwide publications, it’s a tough one to beat. Impressively, one is sold every thirty seconds worldwide (*Aug 2012 – May 2013). The two formulas in one serum, which is automatically mixed upon application, provides hydric and lipidic system delivery. Water and oil based formulas combine to replicate the model of our natural skin’s hydrolipidic film. As a result, our levels of both elements are restored and replenished making the skin look instantly revived. Your skin’s vital functions will be notably boosted with the help of twenty plant extracts. This will then lead to firmer skin, smoothed out wrinkles and a more even complexion. A true glow-giver with pores appearing less visible as a bonus.
Apply after cleansing, toning and moisturising to see the full effect. You can wear it alone or layered underneath foundation, or even mix it in. Either way it will help you achieve that supermodel glow we are all lusting after.
Newest to join the Clarins family is the ‘Extra Comfort Anti Pollution Cleansing Cream’. Designed for skin that is affected by urban aggressors on a daily basis, a common problem in our busy city lives. Pollution from your surrounding environment and general free radical damage are tackled in this innovative product.
For Spring 2014, Clarins has released the fresh tones of their ‘Opalescence Spring Makeup Collection’. Allowing us to celebrate the new season, soft tones and wearable shades are available in a range that all skin tones can enjoy. From prepping the skin with their flawless skin-giving primer, through to the Opalescence face powder, there’s plenty to choose from to liven up our faces. It’s all about a glowing, natural look with long-lasting formulas like the creamy blush colours that are so effortless to apply; you may not even need a mirror!
Moringa seed is the key ingredient to detox pollution whilst shea butter and mango adds to the richness this cleanser feels on the skin. Comforting, purifying and radiance boosting, your skin will be clean at epidermal level whilst being protected from further pollution related damage. One of my personal favourites is the ‘Gentle Exfoliator Brightening Toner’. Suitable for all skin types, this is a toner with extra benefits. Use after cleansing, this fluid closes the pores and freshens the skin, as you’d expect from a toner. But what’s great about it is the light exfoliation action that goes to work at the same time.
For the eyes we’re spoilt for choice with eye singles and quads with an array of shades to enhance and flatter every taste and occasion. Pump up your lashes too with their ‘Instant Definition’ mascara, which will separate and volumise even the most helpless of lashes with their doublebrush, 360˚ technology.
Instead of using harsh scrubs and particles that can scratch the skin, this toner will gently remove any excess dead skin from the surface, thus renewing it on a daily basis. Tamarind fruit acids eat away those surface cells whilst white nettle tightens the pores. Your face is then perfectly prepped for serum and moisturiser application, and in fact, making them more effective.
Lips are not forgotten either with lipsticks and glosses to optimise the effect of light on the lips. ‘Suprashine’ colour complex is infused into the gloss colours whilst the sheer lipsticks are so comfortable to wear you won’t even notice that your lips are tinted to perfection. It’s all about making subtle, easy changes to your makeup routine with products that you can dab, swish and blend into your chosen look for the day or night. Bring on the sun!
On to makeup now and a product that you simply must give some attention to is the ‘Instant Light Radiance Boosting Complexion Base’. An incredibly lightweight cream but don’t let that fool you, this product has a subtle strength. From the very first application onto the skin, this will blur any imperfections and illuminate your face instantly. It also has skincare benefits; hydrating katafray bark extract from Madagascar and pollution is fought off with white tea and lapsana extract. Optical brighteners are infused into this product in the form of a wondrous ingredient called ‘High-Lumitec Complex’. This is sure to be one of the quickest ways for us to cheat 8hrs sleep, in a tube! Three shades are available depending on your skin concern; ‘Rose’ will work with all skin tones to brighten, ‘Champagne’ will counteract redness and ‘Peach’ restores vitality to dull or lacklustre skin.
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S I M PLY C A RS By Andy White
Performance Spike O
ne of the great pleasures of writing about cars in Simply Abu Dhabi is that, in our bid to bring you the best in motoring, one gets to experience the most interesting, the most exotic and just occasionally, the most plain crazy cars the world has to offer. The wonderful Spyker C8 Aileron featured here certainly falls into every one of those categories. Interesting, certainly. Exotic, without a doubt. Plain crazy? Well, I’ll leave that for you to decide. To give you a little background, Spyker are the Dutch car company who, at various points in their history, have entered into F1 motor racing, dropped out, bought Saab, got rid of it again and along the way found the time to produce some of the world’s wildest supercars, cars that could only be Spykers. The all-new, C8 Aileron continues Spyker’s rich heritage of performance, craftsmanship and exclusivity. It’s also, of course, just a little on the wild side. At a first glance, it’s clear to see that this car also continues the Spyker theme of taking design cues from advanced aircraft propulsion. Although now, rather than the propellers featured on earlier cars, jet turbine blades lead the way. Just look at the air intakes that run from the car’s nose, along its flanks and all the way to the rear end. Also, check out the turbine wheel design. If a jet fighter doesn’t instantly spring to mind, them I’m perhaps missing a point somewhere.
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That breathtaking bodywork is constructed in aluminium, keeping the car’s weight down to an impressively lithe 1425 kg, while those stylish curves keep the aerodynamics in order and the car flying like the jets it emulates. And that’s not too much of an exaggeration. This lightweight beauty uses the engine and six-speed semi-auto gearbox from an Audi S4 to provide its motivation. These are, naturally, specially tuned and modified to exactly fit the Spyker’s very specific requirements and to ensure that the car’s no slouch on the road or track. Speaking of which, handling is taken care of too, with the C8’s mid-engined space frame aluminium chassis designed and set up for Spyker by Lotus. All rather impressive pedigree, I’m sure you’ll agree. The Audi engine means that power is measured at 395bhp with torque at 354lb ft. Now while those figures seem a little underwhelming in return for the car’s quite weighty price tag, you need to understand a few things about the Aileron. First and foremost, although the C8 is meant to be a quick car, its existence isn’t all about destroying the opposition with raw speed. Instead, says Spyker, this car is built to charm its audience with a unique combination of style, pace and exclusivity.
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The small fact that it’s not quite as fast as similarly priced rivals from Ferrari, Lamborghini, Aston Martin and all the other supercars doesn’t really matter either, because as far as Spyker is concerned – its customers aren’t interested in pure speed alone. What does matter, according to Spyker, is how the Aileron will feel, sound, and look to its exclusive group of 80 to 100 owners who’ll buy the car every year. All of whom will doubtlessly already have a fleet of much faster supercars in their luxuriously appointed garages. Slipping inside the C8 is to enter into another world. A world furnished in a truly astonishing fashion. The cabin is swathed with padded leather - and not just any old leather. The leather for Spyker cars is sourced from the Litano range produced by the Hulshof Royal Dutch Tanneries in Lichtenvoorde. Hulshof use only West European first choice bull hides, and the special tanning process they employ produces a beautifully rich colour palette and a silky feel with an irresistible super-soft, warm touch. In all, 11 complete hides are taken up by the interior of every Spyker. An amazing feat in what isn’t exactly the largest space I’ve ever seen. Looking further, everything that isn’t leather-covered is aluminum, including the instrument panel, which in this car is further enriched by an optional engine-turned finish. This finish again adds an aeronautical touch as it was originally seen on planes in the 1920s and 30s, the effect achieved by hand turning metallic dust or fine shavings into the dashboard with a cork. Various secondary gauges are arrayed ’50s-style across the flat surface, a classic look enhanced by an aircraft-style toggle sheltered by a red flip-up cover, which forms the master switch for all electrical functions. Flipping that red cover to start the car really summons up the feeling of starting a classic aeroplane, in my imagination a fighter plane, of course. Activate the ignition switch and listen to the reassuring “clack” as the aluminium switch moves into place. Then watch as the dashboard lights up before pressing the engine start/stop button to unleash the rumble of the mighty V8 engine. It really is a wonderful soundtrack and, cossetted by that rich leather, you’re listening from the best seat in the house. Look up and the aircraft theme continues: the emotive dual roof structure is finished in stainless steel with laminated glass, the cockpit inspired configuration providing plenty of natural light and a real sense of drama to the driving experience. All the dials and switches in this car are otherworldly too. Plastic has been positively banished in favour of metal, so it’s aluminium everywhere you touch. The dials can even be upgraded to milled items by Chronoswiss, the legendary German watchmakers famous for their exquisitely milling techniques. Go a little further and they’ll apply their magic to all the switches too. It’s this kind of detail that sets the Spyker C8 Aileron apart from even its most expensive and exotic rivals. That total commitment to creating a real atmosphere by using the best materials every step of the way, and I mean every step of the way. Did I mention the matching Louis Vuitton luggage that’s on the options list? No? Well now I have and, trust me, it’s fabulous. So, if you haven’t considered it before, it’s time you added Spyker to your list of ‘must have’ supercars. It may not be the fastest but it’s something very special indeed.
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AT C L O S E R A N G E I
f you’re a regular reader of Simply Cars, you’re no doubt aware that we’re rather fond of the Range Rover in all its current forms. In fact, not too long ago we were pouring praise on the latest incarnation of the Sport model, a particular favourite of this writer. However, if you like a touch more luxury both on and off the road, there comes a time when you simply have to take a look at the Sport’s slightly bigger, somewhat more refined brother the Range Rover Vogue. And what a looker it is. Having recently benefitted from a comprehensive restyle and remodeling, the Vogue is a massively imposing beast yet blessed with some stunning design details that make it equally at home cruising the boulevard as it is bruising the roughest off-road terrain. Taking a few cues from the cutting-edge styling of the Evoque, the lights both front and rear now sparkle like diamonds against the super-slick bodywork and blend beautifully into the car’s sleek lines, combining to add a look of real quality and prestige to an already impressive package. Make no mistake, this Range Rover carries all the hallmarks that have made these vehicles design classics from their first appearance. What’s happened here is that those clever designers at Land Rover have taken the very best features from those models and enhanced them with distinctly 21st Century updates.
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Sleek, stylish gills on the front doors just behind the front wings hint at the power beneath the car’s skin, while those dynamic wraparound taillights add some bling to the rear and minimise the sheer size of those rear quarters. At the front end the styling is equally sharp. It’s unmistakably a Range Rover, well, those big block letters along the bonnet’s edge won’t let us forget, but it’s a newer, sleeker vehicle from every angle. There are so many new features on this Vogue, yet still those classic Range Rover characteristics remain. The clamshell bonnet, ‘floating’ roof and split tailgate are all present and correct, though the swept-back headlights and sharply angled front grille and windscreen make it clear that this vehicle shares the same bloodline as the highly fashionable and class-leading Evoque. It’s styling like this that makes the car such a great all-rounder. You could power it through the desert for a day yet, once you pull into the executive car park, it’ll outclass almost anything else there. Yes, you may prefer a slightly more subtle super-saloon but it can’t be denied that if you’d rather stand out a little, the Range Rover has real parking lot kudos. Combine all this with a highly impressive spec list, including 20-inch alloys, digital TV and radio, sat-nav plus an automatically opening tailgate and self-parking system fitted as standard, and it’s even harder to believe that the Vogue is actually the base, ‘entry level’ model. Step up to the Vogue SE and you can add cruise control, a dual-view screen and soft door closing to the equipment list, while the Range Rover Autobiography tops the range with its panoramic roof, heated steering wheel and larger alloys. Of course, you can go further still in the pursuit of luxury by specifying the Executive Class pack, which includes rear massage seats divided by a wooden centre console, or plump for the ultimate Range Rover, the ‘Black’ models. These highly desirable variants feature black detailing around the headlights, chrome accents to the front grille and atlas vents to the sides. On the inside, you’ll get everything from powered, pop-up tables finished
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with black leather and featuring integrated USB charging sockets, to teninch screens alongside the top-quality fittings and materials that make every Range Rover the very cream of the crop of executive vehicles, the epitome of luxurious, prestigious motoring. Get into the Vogue’s driving seat and you’ll be struck by a few things. The steering wheel in particular, with its thin rim, leather-wrapped centre, and gorgeous aluminum turrets holding the controls, could grace a Bentley. The interior trim, naturally, comes next. Throughout the interior, the Range Rover is covered in supple leather, wood and aluminium. On the dash and elsewhere in the cabin, Land Rover has taken a minimalist approach. And in this case, less really does mean more. All unnecessary controls have been done away with, leaving the driver free to concentrate on those beautifully presented dials, knobs and buttons that actually serve their purpose. It keeps the interior feeling fresh and the driving experience equally so. Then you’ll take in the matchless view from that majestic driving position. The Range Rover has always been known for the commanding vista of the road the driver gets to enjoy. And, while many, many SUV manufacturers have tried to copy it over the years, no-one has quite managed to nail it like Land Rover have.
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From the seat, you can see all four corners of the car. And, although we couldn’t find a single blind spot, the Range Rover comes with blind spot indicators integrated with its side view mirrors. Added to that, the park assist sensors have been upgraded to indicate cars coming from either side while backing out of a parking space. It’s clear to see that Land Rover have got their priorities right here. No frivolous frills, just really useful driving aids that make the Range Rover as easy to manoeuvre round the city as any other luxury saloon, while maintaining its integrity as a genuine offroad vehicle. It’s a testament to the work of Land Rover’s engineers too that this car is so great to drive. It’s impressively quiet and refined inside, while the smooth eight-speed automatic gearbox contributes to a relaxed driving experience. The standard adaptive damping and air-suspension deliver an impressively composed ride whatever the surface, all adding up to inspire real confidence in every driving situation, be it on or off road. This is how the Range Rover really scores above any other luxury car. By giving you all the refinements of the finest limousine, then adding truly staggering off-road performance, it creates a package that is quite simply, quite beautifully, unique.
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Mean and roofless
he latest and, to my eyes, most desirable addition to the Aston Martin range is the all new for 2014 Vanquish Volante. Why the most desirable? You may ask. Well for me, the answer is simple. It’s a convertible. Now I understand that in the climate of Abu Dhabi, ice-cold air-conditioning makes an awful lot more sense than a topless supercar but then I’ve never claimed that my choice of personal motorcar is based on any kind of logic.
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Ulsters and DBRs of years gone by and, of course the association with the World’s greatest secret agent and man-about-town, James Bond- 007. In fact, as if to prove the car is motoring royalty, Aston Martin even has a Royal Warrant of Appointment to HRH The Prince of Wales, with the Prince Charles himself owning more than one Aston and the company regularly maintaining those vehicles for him.
For me, the essence of real driving pleasure has always been the sensation of the wind in the hair, the sheer unadulterated noise of the engine in the air and the feeling that you’re as close to the open road as it’s possible to get while still on four wheels. I also have to admit to another personal bias. It’s the simple fact that this car is an Aston Martin. A car steeped in Great British history and a tradition of both sporting excellence and gentlemanly style.
Can a car really have a better heritage?
In 2014, Aston Martin has passed 100 years in the business of building cars, and what a 100 years it’s been. There were the racing
While the Vanquish Volante is undoubtedly a car for the 21st Century, it still carries all the trademark style that sets Aston Martin in a field uniquely its own. The signature grille, for example, has graced this marque’s vehicles for decades and, although Ian Callum modernised it for the DB7, it’s still unmistakably Aston. Here it sits atop a double-lip lower front air dam that keeps the front end of this car glued to the tarmac at high-speed and breathes in the air that feeds and cools the engine behind. Let your eyes run along the length
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of the car and you’ll see that the heritage continues but in a dramatic, powerful and contemporary fashion. The body’s sides are defined by three bold character lines, the muscular wheel arches provide a clear signal towards the power beneath the bulging bonnet while an organically shaped spoiler traces the rear edge of the boot lid and adds a satisfying ‘kick’ to the car’s rear view. To my eyes there’s a definite nod to the kamm tail of the classic DB6 here, but that could just be my own nostalgic view. In profile, the Vanquish Volante breaks slightly with tradition though. Where most convertibles opt for the customary long bonnet, short rear deck approach, this car is much more balanced in length both in front of and behind the driving seat. It’s not the usual look of course but somehow it really works for this Aston. It all adds up to a purposeful, powerful look that fits in perfectly with everything Aston Martin means to all the many people who hold the marque in such high regard. Further breaking with tradition, a huge amount of carbon fibre goes into the car’s construction. This of course includes the entirety of the bodywork which adds real brains to the car’s beauty by substantially lowering the car’s weight while raising both strength and design flexibility. Under that glamorous skin sits a bondedaluminum structure buttressed by additional carbon-fibre pieces for greater rigidity. Aston claims this gives a 14-percent improvement in this torsional rigidity for this Volante’s fourth-generation Vertical Horizontal architecture over its predecessor, the DBS Volante. All of this goes some way to quelling the classic open-car body squeaks and allows the suspension do its primary work, handling the car’s power, highly efficiently. To ensure that’s the case and the Vanquish Volante provides the very best experience whatever your driving style the car rides on multilink setups both front and rear and features Normal, Sport, and Track settings for the dampers. Making sure that the car stops as well as it goes, the mighty brake calipers squeeze a set of standard carbon-ceramic discs when you press on the stop pedal. The roof on the Vanquish Volante bucks the trend too. While a great many convertible designers have opted for a folding metal hardtop, such as that in the Mercedes-Benz SL, Aston have gone for a softer approach with a traditional fabric soft top. Where the metal roof may create a dual-nature coupe/convertible, the soft top saves on cost, weight, and complexity and takes much less of a bite out of the cargo space. This means you could take enough luggage for something of a holiday, rather than the change of socks that a folding metal roof might allow. Stowing or opening the Aston’s three-layer cloth top takes a mere 14 seconds and you even do it while travelling at up to 30 mph. Top up or down, the Vanquish Volante offers the same 9.8 cubic feet in the boot. Leaving such matters behind and moving to the front of the car, you’ll find something very, very special under that majestic bonnet. It’s Aston Martin’s own 5.9-litre AM11 V-12 and it’s a thing of beauty. While some cynical types may say that this naturally aspirated 5935-cc veteran is nothing more than a leftover from Ford ownership, Aston counters that it has upgraded almost everything but the rods and pistons, and I for one believe them. At 565 horsepower and 457 lb-ft of torque, it certainly doesn’t feel like reheated leftovers, the unit more than capable of rushing the two-ton Volante to 60 in an estimated 4.2 seconds and up to frankly terrifying speeds in just a few seconds more. So, to summarise, here we have an Aston Martin that carries on all the great traditions of that legendary manufacturer, throws in some distinctly modern touches yet retains an engine that relies on sheer power and good old-fashioned engineering to make it all happen. I love this car. It’s as mean as they come and, once that soft top is tucked safely away, it’s beautifully roofless.
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THE ENGINEERS of essentials
Porsche Design kitchen
P’ 7340 New York | London | Munich | Paris | Moscow | Shanghai | www.porsche-design.com | www.poggenpohl.com KITCHENS & beyond LLC/Poggenpohl UAE, P.O Box 34287, Dubai, UAE, Garhoud Tel: +971 4 283 1331, Fax: +971 4 283 1332, SZR Tel: +971 4 346 5500, Fax: +971 4 346 5511, Email: info@knb.ae, www.knb.ae
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S I M PLY WONDERFUL
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e’re living in an age of innovation, where the world’s greatest scientists, engineers, technicians, artists and creatives are joining forces to create products we can only describe as Simply Wonderful. Innovation is the creation of better or more effective products, processes, services, technologies, or ideas that are readily available to markets, governments, and society. Whereas invention is the creation of a brand new idea or method, innovation often refers to refinements or adjustments, which may take place in quick and endless succession of each other. The work of a skilful innovator can have the same impact – or greater – as that of a brand new invention. Innovation comes from the Latin innovare, “to change”. As such, it differs from improvement, in that it refers to the notion of doing something another way, rather than doing the same thing better. And when innovation coincides with opulence, luxury and high-end lifestyle, that’s when we get interested – and make sure we tell you about it!
Growth In Any Conditions
Here, A&J take a look at all things wonderful: luxury furniture, smartphones, media players, quirky gadgets, and other amazing lifestyle accessories. Are you looking for a minimally-invasive, scar-free technique hair restoration clinic, pushing the limits of what medicine can do to solve hair loss and seeking perfection with each and every case? We might be able to help. The FT (follicular transfer) Technique has been a revolutionary breakthrough in hair loss treatment as it provides natural undetectable results with minimum disruption to our patients' busy demanding schedules. Our Doctors and Consultants are developed and trained worldwide to ensure that our patients benefit from the latest medical technology available including investment in research to continually enhance and develop treatments to help maintain and restore hair.
www.hshairclinic.co.uk
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leek style and super sound all in one. Small in size, but big in functionality, the Libratone Loop is a versatile wireless speaker designed to give multiple placement options around the home. Never sacrificing style for function, the Libratone Loop delivers breathtaking stereo sound in a compact design. Driven by a four-inch bass and two one-inch ribbon tweeters, the Loop fills the room with incredible sound. But what makes the Loop stand out from the crowd is pure style. With the kind of simple symmetry that makes for elevated, elegant design, the 13-inch circular speaker can be placed on a table or shelf, or hung on any wall in the home. What’s more, the Loop can be dressed for any occasion. Basic black or white your style? Or would you prefer bold pineapple yellow or raspberry red? Perhaps a cool plum purple or icy blue is more to your taste. Whatever your home décor – the Loop has an outfit to match. The changeable covers of the Libratone Loop are made from fine Italian wool, which gives an exclusive and distinguished look. Wool is a natural high-quality fibre with a proven durability, which enables it to withstand perpetual use whilst retaining colour, form and a great appearance for many years. But don’t let the Loop’s good looks fool you – it packs a punch. A versatile speaker that delivers breathtaking stereo sound, the Loop is designed to change the way you listen to music, challenging the belief that great sound only stems from big black boxes.
Versatility Redefined: Introducing the Libratone Loop
AirPlay and DLNA technology lets you stream music wirelessly through your Wi-Fi network. Additionally, with Libratone PlayDirect™ you can even stream without a Wi-Fi network router, meaning you can easily stream your favourite music straight from an iPad, iPhone and Android or Mac/PC, from anywhere. You can play Spotify, Pandora and Internet radio stations with all the Libratone speakers. Technology doesn’t get more accessible or easier to use than this. Sound needs to travel in order to sound as full and rich as it should. The round shape of the speaker supports the built-in FullRoom™ technology, which bounces sound off the walls and disperses it in every direction, filling the room with sound from corner to corner. The free Libratone app has been designed to give the best listening experience whatever room you’re in. Easy to use, it provides the option to enhance and customise the audio experience to match the speaker’s surroundings and type of audio it plays. The control interface has moved to the palm of your hand. Built on a new platform generation, the Libratone Loop contains higher performing output stages (120W), which in combination with a new power supply, designed specifically for audio, results in improved dynamic sound performance. Unlike conventional amplifier technologies, the Libratone Loop uses an exclusive Full Digital Amplification system to accurately reproduce and deliver the truest audio resolution and transparency. The uninterrupted Digital Audio path delivers crisp and clean full resolution through the highest quality drivers. When added to a Wi-Fi router, the proprietary wireless
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antenna system is fully optimised to provide perfect omni-polar response and maximum networking sensitivity experience. In recognition of its performance, the Libratone Loop was named an International CES Innovations 2014 Design and Engineering Awards Honoree in the high performance audio/video category. “The nomination of the Loop marks the third year in a row that a wireless speaker in the Libratone family has been recognised by the Consumer Electronics Association for outstanding design and engineering,” said Gregg Stein, CEO of Libratone North America. “We are thrilled that the Loop has been named an honoree in this year’s Innovation Awards.” Passionate audiophiles founded Libratone in 2009, driven by a dream to set music free and add a new dimension to the electronic music collections stored on phones or tablets. Mixing different areas of expertise, from audio technology to aesthetics, Libratone aim to bring out the best of design and acoustic performance in one perfect package.
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TAG Heuer Boutiques: s !BU $HABI n !BU $HABI -ALL s $UBAI n "URJUMAN s $UBAI -ALL s $OHA n #ITY #ENTRE s *EDDAH n 2ASHID -ALL s +UWAIT #ITY n !VENUE -ALL s -ANAMA n #ITY #ENTRE s 3EEF -ALL s 4EHRAN n 3AM #ENTER s "EIRUT n "EIRUT 3OUK !LSO AVAILABLE AT AUTHORIZED DEALERS
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ombining sporty looks with cutting-edge technology, Hublot introduces its new highperformance sunglasses.
Following on from the All Black skis developed with Zai; the carbon racing bike developed with BMC; the sledge made from wood, carbon and leather developed with ECAL; the soundboard developed with JMC Lutherie; and the High Fidelity headphones developed with Monster, Hublot now launches sunglasses designed and developed in the same spirit of collaboration with the best, to create a product which is different, unique and pioneering. Hublot's sunglasses have been developed with companies who are experts in their field: Marcus Marienfeld AG based in Ried-Brig, in the Swiss Canton of Valais, and Zeiss (inventor of the anti-reflective coating). Handmade in Switzerland, these sunglasses benefit from the highest level of expertise. They are the fusion of a unique, pure, elegant and contemporary design - exclusive to Hublot, with high-performance adaptable lenses and a high-tech titanium frame - a remarkable technical feat. The blue-grey CR-39 lenses bearing the Zeiss signature offer a very high sun protection factor and excellent optical performance. Their inner surface benefits from Zeiss' famous anti- reflective coating which gives it exceptional properties – for example preventing internal reflections and making it water repellent. On the outer surface, the Tri-Flection™ coating, with its unique design, means that the sunglasses require less cleaning, as fingerprints, marks and dust adhere less to the surface. The Hublot sunglasses offer unbeatable results in terms of optical quality, purity, adhesion, scratch resistance and durability. And they can be adapted to the customer's vision on request.
HUBLOT SUNGL A SSES
The adjustable frame features a unique and different design specially developed with the Hublot teams. Pure, elegant, contemporary, fine and streamlined, these sunglasses also feature Hublot's famous codes such as the H-shaped screws and the brand logo on each arm, with a rubber insert at the end for comfort. Hublot sunglasses are available in two versions: Titanium Black and Titanium. Each pair of sunglasses is numbered.
Developed with the best: Marcus Marienfeld AG & Zeiss. Handmade in Switzerland.
In short, the entire product has been conceived, developed and designed to reflect Hublot's pure DNA: sport, performance and technology.
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The Digital Set by Karl Lagerfeld for S.T. Dupont
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visionary designer known for his sharp eye in fashion, photography and design, Karl Lagerfeld is also a keen collector of luxury craftsmanship, including the legendary objects created by S.T. Dupont.
S.T. Dupont celebrates the Chinese New Year with its ‘Horse’ Limited Edition Series
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obility, intelligence, and perseverance. 2014 is the year of the horse – the Wood Horse more precisely – in the Chinese horoscope.
To celebrate, S.T. Dupont’s ‘Horse’ Limited Edition pays tribute to this inspiring creature with a collection of unique luxury goods in two distinct editions.
After a first collaboration in 2011, Karl Lagerfeld continues the adventure with the celebrated French manufacturer of luxury goods. He has brought his creative flair alongside the S.T. Dupont expertise and heritage to imagine a new creation: the Digital Set.
Chinese Horse Symbolism Occupying the seventh position on the Chinese Zodiac, the Horse symbolises such character traits as strength, energy, and an outgoing nature. Extremely animated, those born under this sign thrive when they’re the centre of attention. Always in search of a good time, Horses keep the crowds happy with their humour and their wit. The Horse is a symbol of nobility, intelligence and perseverance. It said that people born in the Year of the Horse are smart, fabulous speakers who have a gift for getting through to other people. They believe that their aim in life is "to seek individual freedom and happiness."
This new collaboration carries the world of S.T. Dupont from paper to the digital era with a set inspired by mobile technology. Always at the vanguard, Karl Lagerfeld is one of the pioneers of digital fashion through his strong online presence. It seemed a matter of course for him to create a set using the different modes of contemporary communication.
Created in partnership with the French jeweller Philippe Tournaire, S.T. Dupont once again combines bold inspiration with exceptional know-how and expertise, in an entirely hand-made line of treasures, The Horse ‘Prestige’ collection, limited to 88 pieces. Hand-sculpted on a Néo-Classique President fountain pen of black Chinese lacquer, the Prestige collection’s yellow-gold plated Horse, with its splendid mane, sits atop the luxury writing implement. The horse’s eyes are set with two diamonds of 0.4 carats. The Prestige edition pen is set on a sculpted base in yellow bronze with a burnished hand patina bearing an engraved plate.
Three different writing methods brought together: The lacquered black pen is at once a traditional ballpoint and a digital stylus. The set also includes an optic white lacquered USB key with a capacity of 8 GB. The Dupont lacquer finish is highlighted with palladium strips and shiny red cornelian stones, and each item is engraved with Karl Lagerfeld’s iconic silhouette.
The Horse ‘Premium’ collection shows S.T. Dupont’s unique savoir-faire as Master lacquerer: a golden horse is embedded in six layers of black Chinese lacquer on either a large, elegant pen or a smart set of cufflinks. The Premium Collection is limited to 888 pieces for each.
This unique edition is available in two versions: the first in a stunning black lacquered box, available exclusively at KARL LAGERFELD stores, and The Premium version, in stylised black and white packaging, available at S.T.Dupont points of sale.
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Simply Guided Abu Dhabi Commercial Bank Abu Dhabi Commercial Bank Building HQ, Sheikh Zayed Street, P. O. Box: 939, Abu Dhabi, UAE. Tel: 00971 2 6962222
DSQUARED2 The Galleria, Sowwah Square, Al Maryah Island, Abu Dhabi, UAE. Tel: 00971 2 412 4020
Panerai The Galleria at Sowwah Square, Al Maryah Island, Abu Dhabi, UAE. Tel: 00971 2 491 9748
Tag Heuer Dubai Mall, Downtown, Dubai, UAE. Tel: 971 4 339 8555
Emirates Palace Hotel Corniche Rd West, Abu Dhabi, UAE. Tel: 00971 2 690 9000
Panerai The Avenue at Etihad Towers, Abu Dhabi UAE. Tel: 00971 2 681 8660
The Address Downtown Hotel By Emmar Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Blvd, Downtown, Dubai, UAE. Tel: 00971 4 436 8888
Baccarat Tanagra-Marina Mall, Abu Dhabi, UAE. Tel: 00971 2 681 7506
Fendi Breakwater Corniche Street, Marina Village, Marina Mall Ground Level - New Extension, 42681 Abu Dhabi, Tel: 00971 2 681 3553
Panerai The Dubai Mall, Financial Centre Road, Downtown, Dubai, UAE. Tel: 00971 4 3398444
Tiffany & Co Abu Dhabi Mall, Ground floor, Central Court,9th Street, Abu Dhabi, UAE. Tel: 00971 2 644 1182
Baccarat Baccarat Lighting Showroom, 29 Boulevard Building, Mohammed bin Rashid Boulevard, Dubai, UAE. Tel: 00971 4 363 8584
Fendi The Galleria, Sowwah Square, Al Maryah Island, Abu Dhabi, UAE. Tel: 00971 2 643 2423
Baccarat Baccarat Boutique Downtown, Dubai Mall, UAE. Tel: 00971 4 339 8942
Fendi Dubai Mall: Ground floor, Fashion Avenue, Financial Centre Road, Downtown Dubai, United Arab Emirates. Tel: 00971 4 339 9782
Bentley Motors Sheikh Zayed the 1st Street, Al Khalidiya, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates. Tel: 971 2 222 2445
GRAFF The Galleria at Sowwah Square Level R1 Al Marayah Island Abu Dhabi, UAE. Tel: 971 2674 3666
Bentley Motors Al Ittihad Rd, PO Box 19879, Dubai, United Arab Emirates. Tel: 00971 4 294 4492
Graham Al Manara International Jewellery, Marina Mall, Abu Dhabi, UAE. Tel: 00971 2 681 3232
Bovet Available via all Al Manara International Jewellery Botiques in Abu Dhabi. Visit http://www.amij.com for further details.
Graham Al Manara Jewellery, The Collection, St Regis Resort, Saadiyat Island, Abu Dhabi, UAE. Tel: 00971 2 667 3535
Breguet The Avenue at Etihad Towers, Abu Dhabi, UAE. Tel: 00971 2 665 5185
Gulfstream Contact Allan Stanton via Tel: 00971 50 653 5258 or via allan.stanton@gulfstream.com
Breguet Mall of the Emirates, Level 1 – Fashion Dome, Dubai,UAE. Tel: 00971 4 395 1862
Hublot Marina Mall, Abu Dhabi, UAE. Tel: 00971 2 681 1822
Richard Mille The Galleria at Sowwah Square Level R1 Al Marayah Island Abu Dhabi, UAE. Tel: 971 2672 4440
Breguet Dubai Mall, Burj Khalifa Boulevard, Old Town, Dubai, United Arab Emirates. Tel: 00971 4 339 8756
Hublot Abu Dhabi Mall, Abu Dhabi, UAE. Tel: 00971 2 645 7575
Richard Mille Al Manara International Jewellery, Marina Mall, Abu Dhabi, UAE. Tel: 00971 2 681 3232
Brioni The Galleria, Sowwah Square, Al Maryah Island, Abu Dhabi, UAE. Tel: 00971 2 626 6730
Hublot Al Manara Jewellery, The Collection, St Regis Resort, Saadiyat Island, Abu Dhabi, UAE. Tel: 00971 2 667 3535
Richard Mille Al Manara International Jewellery, Emirates Palace Hotel, Corniche, Abu Dhabi, UAE. Tel: 00971 2 681 9222
Brioni Khalidiya Street, Abu Dhabi, UAE. Tel: 00971 2 681 3141
Hublot Al Manara International Jewellery, Emirates Palace Hotel, Corniche, Abu Dhabi, UAE. Tel: 00971 2 681 9222
Saint Lauren Marina Mall, Corniche Street Extension, Abu Dhabi, UAE. Tel: 00971 2 681 6994
Chaumet The Galleria, Sowwah Square, level 1, Al Maryah Island, Abu Dhabi, PO BOX: 49283 UAE. Tel: 00971 2 412 4080
Illamasqua Marina Mall, Areej Boutique, West Cornich Road, Abu Dhabi, UAE. Tel: 00971 2 6815662
Aldar Properties Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates. Tel: 800-ALDAR
Chaumet The Dubai Mall Ground Floor, Downtown Burj Dubai Area,PO Box 52356, Dubai, UAE. Tel: 00971 4 339 8758 Chopard Marina Mall, West Cornich Road, Abu Dhabi, UAE. Tel: 00971 2 681 3232 Cruciani Burjman Centre, Level 2, Dubai, UAE. Tel: 00971 4 386 4724 Cruciani Dubai Mall, Level 1, Near Fashion Catwalk, Dubai Downtown, Dubai, UAE. Tel: 00971 4 379 0217 Desert Islands - Anantara Resorts Sir Bani Yas, Abu Dhabi, UAE. Tel: 00971 2 801 5400 Dior The Galleria, Sowwah Square, Al Maryah Island, Abu Dhabi, UAE. Tel: 00971 2 643 2177 Dior Marina Mall, West Cornich Road, Abu Dhabi, UAE. Tel: 00971 2 681 7477 Dior Dubai Mall, Burj Khalifa Boulevard, Old Town, Dubai, United Arab Emirates. Tel: 00971 4 330 8739 Dior Mall of the Emirates, Sheikh Zayed Road, Dubai, UAE. Tel: 00 971 43235322 Dolce & Gabbana The Galleria, Sowwah Square, Al Maryah Island, Abu Dhabi, UAE. Tel: 00971 26742120 Dolce & Gabbana The Mall of the Emirates, Dubai, UAE. Tel 00971 4 3410626 Dolce & Gabbana Harvey Nichols, Mall of the Emirates, Dubai, UAE. Tel: 00971 4 4098888
IWC The Galleria at Sowwah Square, Al Maryah Island, Abu Dhabi, UAE. Tel: 00971 2 622 7820
Piaget The Avenue at Etihad Towers, Abu Dhabi, UAE. Tel: 00971 2 667 0044 Poggenpohl UAE Sheikh Zayed Road, Garhoud, Dubai, UAE. Tel: 00971 4 283 1331
TOD'S Marina Mall, Abu Dhabi, UAE. Tel: 00971 2 681 6562
Ralph Lauren Dubai Mall, Burj Khalifa Boulevard, Old Town, Dubai, United Arab Emirates. Tel: 971 4 330 8005
TOD'S The Galleria at Sowwah Square Al Maryah Island, Abu Dhabi, UAE. Tel: 00971 2 626 6710
Ralph Lauren Mall of the Emirates, Sheikh Zayed Road, Dubai, United Arab Emirates. Tel: 00 971 4 341 4200 Ralph Lauren Home Shining Towers, King Khalid Bin Abdul Aziz Street, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates. Tel: 971 2 6814727
Saint Lauren The Galleria at Sowwah Square, Al Maryah Island, Abu Dhabi, UAE. Tel: 00971 2 643 2609 Saint Lauren Mall of the Emirates, Al Barsha 3,Dubai, UA. Tel: 00971 4 341 0113 Saint Lauren Bloomingdales store, Men's and Women's Collections,The Dubai Mall - Sheikh Zayed Road,Dubai, UAE. Tel: 971 4 350 5333
Jaquet Droz Available via all Rivoli Prestige Boutiques, For more information please visit http://www.rivoligroup.com or Call Toll Free 800-RIVOLI
Saint Lauren Harvey Nichols, Men's and Women's Collections, Mall of The Emirates, Dubai, UAE: Tel: 00971 4 409 8888
Jaquet Droz Rivoli Prestige, The Galleria at Sowwah Square, Abu Dhabi , United Arab Emirates. Tel: 00971 2 6432204 MB&F Al Manara International Jewellery, The Galleria, Sowwah Square, Al Maryah Island, Abu Dhabi, UAE. Tel: 00971 2 674 3444 Mont Blanc The Avenue at Etihad Towers, Abu Dhabi Mall, Marina Mall, Al-Ain Mall, Dubai Mall, Mall of Emirates, Emirates Towers, Burjuman, Wafi. Montegrappa Emirates Towers, Dubai, UAE. Tel: 00971 4 388 0620 Mulberry The Galleria at Sowwah Square, Al Maryah Island, Abu Dhabi, UAE. Tel: 00971 2 412 4010 Mulberry Mall Of The Emirates, Fashion Dome, Level 2, Dubai, UAE. Tel: 00971 4 395 1500 Mulberry Dubai Mall, Downtown, 1st Floor Fashion Avenue, Dubai, United Arab Emirates. Tel: 00971 4 339 8990
Tiffany & Co Emirates Mall, Mall of Emirates, Level 1, Sheikh Zayed Road, Dubai,UAE. Tel: 00971 4 341 0655
Ralph Lauren The Galleria, Level 1, Sowwah Square, Al Maryah Island, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates. Tel: 00971 2 626 6724
Jaeger-LeCoultre The Avenue at Etihad Towers, Abu Dhabi, UAE. Tel: 00971 2-681 2834
Jaquet Droz Rivoli Prestige, Abu Dhabi Marina Mal, Abu Dhabi , United Arab Emirates. Tel: 00971 2 6814039
Tiffany & Co Dubai Mall,Dubai Mall, Ground Floor, Financial Centre Road, Dubai, UAE. Tel: 00971 4 339 8350
TOD'S Mall of the Emirates, Sheikh Zayed Road, Dubai, UAE. Tel: 00971 4 341 3033 TOD'S Dubai Mall, Galeries Lafayette, Ground floor, UAE. Tel: 00971 4 5016925 Tori No Su Restaurant Jumeirah At Etihad Towers, Abu Dhabi, UAE. Tel: 00971 2 811 5666 or Email JADrestaurants@jumeirah.com Tumi Abu Dhabi Mall, Abu Dhabi, UAE. Tel: 00971 2 673 8574 Tumi The Galleria, Sowwah Square, Al Maryah Island, Abu Dhabi, UAE. Tel: 00971 2 412 4115 Ulysse Nardin Al Manara International Jewellery, Marina Mall, Abu Dhabi, UAE. Tel: 00971 2 681 3232 Ulysse Nardin Al Manara International Jewellery, Emirates Palace Hotel, Corniche, Abu Dhabi, UAE. Tel: 00971 2 681 9222 Ulysse Nardin Al Manara International Jewellery, The Galleria, Sowwah Square, Al Maryah Island, Abu Dhabi, UAE. Tel: 00971 2 674 3444 Van Cleef & Arpels Marina Mall, Abu Dhabi, UAE. Tel: 00971 2 681 1121 Van Cleef & Arpels The Avenue at Etihad Towers, Abu Dhabi, UAE. Tel: 00971 2 681 1919 Van Cleef & Arpels The Galleria, Al Maryah Island, Abu Dhabi, UAE. Tel: 00971 2 643 2088
Salvatore Ferragamo The Avenue at Etihad Towers, Abu Dhabi, UAE. Tel: 00971 2 665 5481
Van Cleef & Arpels Dubai Mall, Dubai, UAE. Tel: 00971 4 339 8001
Salvatore Ferragamo Dubai Mall, Downtown, Dubai, UAE. Tel: 971 4 330 8590
Van Cleef & Arpels Mall of Emirates, Dubai, UAE. Tel: 00971 4 347 2487
SHOW By Tamara Ecclestone Marina Mall, Areej Boutique, West Cornich Road, Abu Dhabi, UAE. Tel: 00971 2 6815662
Versace The Avenue at Etihad Towers RB005, Second Floor, Abu Dhabi, UAE. Tel: 00971 2 667 4465
SHOW By Tamara Ecclestone Mall of the Emirates, Areej Boutique, Sheikh Zayed Road, Dubai, United Arab Emirates Tel: 00971 4 409 9000
Versace Dubai Mall, Unit 029, Ground Floor, Fashion Avenue, Dubai, UAE. Tel: 00971 4 339 8285
SLYDE Al Manara International Jewellery, The Galleria, Sowwah Square, Al Maryah Island, Abu Dhabi, UAE. Tel: 00971 2 674 3444 Stephane Rolland The Avenue at Etihad Towers, Abu Dhabi, UAE. Tel: 00971 2 667 4142 Tag Heuer Abu Dhabi Mall, Abu Dhabi, UAE. Tel: 00971 2 644 6448. Tag Heuer Burjuman Mall, Shop No. 250, 2/F, New Extension, Burjuman Hall, Dubai, UAE. Tel: 00971 4 355 9494
Versace Mall of Emirates, FX08, First Floor, Fashion Dome, Dubai, UAE. Tel: 00971 4 395 1927 Versace Burjuman Mall, Shop No. 250, 2/F, New Extension, Burjuman Hall, Dubai, UAE. Tel: 00971 4351 0301
Simply Abu Dhabi Master Artwork Issue 13_Layout 1 05/03/2014 21:52 Page 364