WATCHES & JEWELLERY

THE EXCALIBUR SINGLE FLYING TOURBILLON: FROM A TIMEPIECE TO A MASTERPIECE

Roger Dubuis continues shaking up the world of haute horlogerie with the launch of the new Excalibur Single Flying Tourbillon. Enhanced with meticulous care, the timepiece is reinterpreted with sophistication and flair using modern and technical materials.

A contemporary masterpiece for the wrist, the new design showcases clean cut lines on both case and movement. Creating the impression of a thinner look and feel, while heightening the sense of transparency and depth, the calibre is rebuilt from bottom to top in an architectural feat that sees the Roger Dubuis star now levitate freely above the barrel. A strong visual identity is created with a signature two-line pattern – seen between the notch on the crown and bezel, the star’s arms, the tourbillon’s cage, the hour’s marking on the flange, the hands – all of which cleverly appear as though they will meet but never do. This dynamic aesthetic is amplified by the Poinçon de Genève, the most demanding signature in fine watchmaking and one that requires the manual decoration of each and every component of the watch, as well as unexpected and antinomic decorations in modern haute horlogerie, such as circularbrushed top surfaces and polished angles that demonstrate Roger Dubuis’ visionary approach.

Always keeping the wearer in mind, the new RD512SQ calibre is stunning in its technical prowess. Now with a titanium lower tourbillon cage – twice lighter than stainless steel – and a mirror-polished Cobalt Chrome upper tourbillon cage, the weight of the piece is reduced to optimum effect. All of which allows the power reserve to be radically optimised to 72 hours, providing the option of leaving the watch unworn over weekends without the worry of resetting come Monday. Proving no detail goes unconsidered, non-magnetic material is used inside the tourbillon to better serve the wearers and improve their experience.

THE ART OF GLOW

Showcasing the Maison’s obsession with art, light and luminescence, in addition to our icons comes the Excalibur Glow Me Up, a world-premiere for Roger Dubuis limited to just eight timepieces.

By day, the new Single Flying Tourbillon calibre is elegantly adorned with 60 baguette-cut diamonds on the bezel. By night, it’s a complete different version that comes to life through this vibrant timepiece with luminescent and dazzling diamonds, an achievement made possible thanks to an intricate two-part process. The first involves filling the grooves that hold the stones in place with Super-Luminova, a singular way to make the diamonds appear luminescent without altering them. Secondly, an additional patent enables Super-Luminova to be applied on the angles of the movement, as well as to the iconic star-shaped bridge. Because at Roger Dubuis less is never more.

ART IN THE MAKING

Roger Dubuis is a destination for the avant-garde. Committed to nonconformity, the Maison stands with those who choose to blaze their own trail. To show what happens when rules are rejected and creativity is unleashed, Roger Dubuis partners with the URBAN ART TRIBE, composed of three urban culture creatives – tattoo artist Dr. Woo, graffiti artist Gully and mixed-media artist Liu Wei. Rulebreakers in their own fields, they too shape the future by refusing to take ‘no’ for an answer. Brought together to unite a wider community of daring minds, Roger Dubuis and the URBAN ART TRIBE hope to encourage people to challenge the way things are, just as the Maison does when it comes to Hyper Horology, and Dr. Woo and Gully do in their industries.

A leading name among an influential elite who see tattoos, art and fashion as an indissociable whole, Dr. Woo’s singular approach to needle style has shifted the paradigm for tattoos, taking them from subculture to broad popular appeal. Of the partnership he says: “I’ve taken this path because I don’t know where it leads, and that is exactly why I’m here – to seek the unknown and go out of my comfort zone. Tattooing and watchmaking have that in common: the same attention to detail, a dot vs. a tiny component, assembled perfectly for you to see the bigger picture.”

MARIA TASH

MARIA TASH LAUNCHES THE BRIDAL EDIT

Maria Tash is excited to announce the launch of the Bridal Edit. The new edit couples Maria’s favorite fine jewellery designs with a wide range of bridal aesthetics and adds the perfect finishing touch for any wedding look.

From minimal and traditional to architectural and romantic, these styles prove that something new and, at times, something blue can be worn long after the exchange of “I Do’s.”

9.5MM PEARL CORONET RING WITH DIAMOND

BRIOLETTE IN ROSE GOLD

8MM INVISIBLE SET DIAMOND ETERNITY CLICKER

IN ROSE GOLD

6MM DIAMOND PEAR EARSTUD IN ROSE GOLD

PINK SAPPHIRE AND DIAMOND MT TIARA THREADED

8MM ENGRAVED SILHOUETTE DIAMOND THREADED

STUD EARRING IN WHITE GOLD

Our versatile jewelry perfects any bride’s style, whether it is used to accentuate family heirlooms or as a statement on its own. I’m thrilled to design timeless pieces that appeal to a modern bride.

Maria Tash, Founder and Designer

8MM PEARL CORONET RING

WITH DIAMOND BRIOLETTE IN

ROSE GOLD

11MM INVISIBLE SET DIAMOND

CRESCENDO BAR STUD EARRING IN 8MM SILHOUETTE DIAMOND TRIPLE

LONG SPIKE ETERNITY HOOP EARRING IN

WHITE GOLD

HENRY JACQUES

LAUNCHES “LES BOITES À PARFUMS”

HAND-CRAFTED PERFUME CHESTS TO HOUSE THE MAISON’S MOST TREASURED SCENTS

Henry Jacques introduces “Les Boites à Parfums”, a set of handcrafted chests designed to house the maison’s treasured Classiques perfumes. The extensive range of 50 fragrances that lie at the heart of Henry Jacques give rise to the desire of creating one’s own exquisite collection; the new chests were borne to reveal and protect these flacons in a manner as unique and special as the scents that they encase. Whether the collection of Classiques was purchased in store or on Henry Jacques new e-shop set to launch in June (https://parfumshenryjacques.com), the Maison now offers these elegant padded cases free of charge with any purchase of 3, 6 or 10 perfumes. The chests are ideal for organizing, protecting, displaying or transporting one’s own personal selection of fragrances, be it the classical Essences or the contemporary Brumes sprays.

Available in 4 colours, pink, taupe, beige and brown, Les Boites à Parfums will blend in perfectly with any décor and serves as a showcase of one’s favorite fragrances, and a graceful insight into one’s personality. An object of great refinement, the new perfume boxes are the perfect reflection of the art of living as envisaged by Henry Jacques: a precious and discreet indulgence that we keep close each day.

Les Boites à Parfums clearly echo Henry Jacques’ vision of Haute Parfumerie: perfumery that never stands still, and is more than just the result of virtuous know-how. Perfumery that takes its source and raison d’être from the boldness of exploration and the exquisiteness of intimacy: Haute Parfumerie Vivante.

An object of great refinement, the new perfume boxes are the perfect reflection of the art of living as envisaged by Henry Jacques: a precious and discreet indulgence that we keep close each day.

LOEWE Paula’s Ibiza Eau de Toilette

SCENT DESIGNED TO RECREATE THE SPIRIT OF LETTING GO ASSOCIATED WITH THE UNIQUE ISLAND OF IBIZA AT ANY GIVEN MOMENT AND PLACE

Launched in 2020 and returning for another summer season, the EDT is a universal fragrance for both men and women that adds a sensual, olfactory dimension to LOEWE’s annual Paula’s Ibiza capsule collection of ready-to-wear, bags and accessories; a range that’s designed to carry a relaxed, Balearic beachside spirit into the everyday.

Created in collaboration between LOEWE’s creative director, Jonathan Anderson, and in-house perfumier, Nuria Cruelles, Paula’s Ibiza EDT evokes escapism and joy through the senses: a memorable, transportive experience where the beach becomes both a place and an attitude.

‘The perfume was created to encapsulate Paula’s Ibiza’s barefoot, bohemian vibes where effortlessness and optimism go hand in hand ’ – says J. Anderson.

The composition layers tropical top notes of coconut water, bright green galbanum and Madagascan mandarin oil with heart notes of driftwood, sand lily and frangipane, grounded by vanilla absolute, Sulawesi patchouli oil and warm ambergris at the base. It’s a scent suffused with spontaneity, hedonism and carefree spirit: escapism bottled.

And the bottle itself hypes the sense of hedonism: a rainbow-coloured ombré cylinder,

with a glossy sky blue cap that invites the slippery touch of sun-creamed fingers.

The box is embellished with an archive print designed by original Paula’s Ibiza boutique owners, Armin Heinemann and Stuart Rudnick, depicting mermaids frolicking with sea horses, swimming amongst seaweed and scarlet coral reef.

Full of freedom and positive energy, the campaign stills and film are themed ‘Locomia’,

shot on location in Mexico by long-time LOEWE collaborator Gray Sorrenti. We see models dancing together, skateboarding, exploring the town and feeling the sun on their faces. The colourful scenes, vibrant clothing and playful, uninhibited action encapsulate Ibiza’s liberating spirit. Through the additional Paula’s Ibiza EDT campaign images, we continue our journey through colour, back to LOEWE’s roots in craft. Gray Sorrenti’s studio shoot of models

Mona Tougaard and Fernando Lindez entwined against a white backdrop joined by acid-bright still-lifes of handmade papier maché fruits and vegetables: Mexican folk artinspired pieces arranged in the distinctive stacked arrangements of the photographer, Nacho Alegre.

In-store, to celebrate Paula’s Ibiza’s seasonal return, the windows will be dressed with artisan-crafted animal busts by Spanish straw artist, Javier S. Medina, in reference to the highly crafted nature of the fragrance and the interior decorations that adorn Ibizan fincas.

As an olfactory accessory to the vibrant ready-to-wear styles of Paula’s Ibiza, the Paula’s Ibiza EDT is a sunny, irreverent and optimistic one, with an ultimately simple message: that your mind can always travel, carried away by your senses.

The perfume was created to encapsulate Paula’s Ibiza’s barefoot, bohemian vibes where effortlessness and optimism go hand in hand

– J. Anderson

BERLUTI X BANG & OLUFSEN

BERLUTI AND DANISH LUXURY AUDIO BRAND BANG & OLUFSEN COLLABORATE FOR A LIMITED-EDITION COLLECTION OF PRODUCTS, CELEBRATING ‘SAVOIRFAIRE’ AND LIFESTYLE

The collaboration honours the heritage and craftsmanship associated with both ‘Maisons’ and combines some of Bang & Olufsen’s most iconic products with Berluti’s emblematic Venezia leather, patinated by hand to propose six unique pieces. The result is a fusion of signature sound, timeless design, and unrivalled leather expertise where craftmanship is elevated and form and function go hand in hand.

Perfect for urban travellers and digital nomads, Beosound A1 2nd Gen Berluti Edition, Beoplay H95 Berluti Edition, and Berluti’s Sound Pouch are ideal to carry on the go, completed by the addition of Beosound Balance Berluti Edition. Two exceptional made-to-order home products, Beovision Harmony and Beolab 90, add the finishing touch to the collection which complement Berluti’s existing selection of lifestyle and home objects while going deeper into the brand’s technology offering.

Berluti declares “Berluti and Bang & Olufsen are a perfect match, bringing together a common passion for excellence. Bang & Olufsen’s cutting-edge philosophy, technological innovation and state-of-the-art design run parallel to the Maison’s focus on craftsmanship and to its continually evolving lifestyle collection.”

“For nearly a century, Bang & Olufsen has been pushing the boundaries of audio technology and the company continues to sit at the forefront of acoustic innovation. Together with Berluti, we are bringing the best of artisanship to the fore with our expertise in sound and design, and Berluti’s knowledge in leather craftsmanship to create a truly remarkable collection”, says Christoffer Poulsen, SVP of Product Management & Brand Partnering at Bang & Olufsen.

Berluti and Bang & Olufsen’s offering includes the following items:

Beosound A1 2nd Gen Berluti Edition

Bang & Olufsen’s award-winning, second-generation, portable Bluetooth speaker is waterproof, dustproof and boasts up to 18 hours of battery play time. It has true 360-degree omnidirectional powerful sound, built-in Alexa and a three-microphone array giving a great speakerphone experience. The minimalist design in Grey Mist has a large Berluti logo on top of the speaker, creating a bold expression. The Berluti calf leather cord in shiny dark brown tones is perfect for portability and the aluminium tag has the Bang & Olufsen logo laser engraved on one side and the Berluti logo on the other. The aluminium tag is completed with a mirror-polished finish, drawing inspiration from Berluti’s ready to wear accessory trimmings.

Beoplay H95 Berluti Edition

The Danish brand’s finest wireless headphones, first launched in 2020, feature the highest quality sound, long lasting comfort, truly effective noise cancellation, and luxurious materials. Aesthetics and performance work together through 38 hours of play time in one charge – even with ANC turned on. Crafted at Manifattura Berluti, the headband features Berluti’s trademark Venezia leather with a

TDM Intenso patina and the Maison’s embossed logo. The soft lambskin ear cushions in dark brown match the Berluti Venezia leather headband, creating a cohesive expression. The aluminium discs have been engraved with the Berluti logo on the left-hand side and the Bang & Olufsen logo on the right hand-side. The headphones are housed in a black aluminum case, laser engraved with the joint co-branding that makes H95 perfect for travelling.

Berluti Sound Pouch

Berluti has created a dedicated pouch that can comfortably and compactly fit either the Beosound A1 speaker or the Beoplay H95 headphones. Made with Berluti’s Signature Canvas - a motif blending Berluti’s new logo and the undulating strokes of the iconic Scritto - and featuring a patinated Venezia leather tag, it is ideal for safe carrying.

Beosound Balance Berluti Edition

Bang & Olufsen’s home speaker is inspired by interior objects to redefine home audio and has a soft cylindrical silhouette featuring a hidden touch interface that lights up when being approached, inviting the user to interact with the speaker. Beosound Balance comes with built-in Google Assistant (based on local availability) and supports Apple Airplay2, Spotify Connect and Google Chromecast. Seven carefully placed speaker drivers with beam-forming technology allows the user to choose between powerful and room-filling sound for everyday listening and sound directivity for precise and immersive music experiences. Patinated by hand, Berluti’s Venezia leather is wrapped around the wooden base of Balance, creating a distinct finish and manufactured with Berluti’s artisanal know how. The fabric has a dark knit with a touch of brown to match the leather base which has been embossed with both logos and includes fine stitching around the base’s edge to create a touch of elegance. The top plate and grill come in natural aluminium for a high contrast and exclusive highlight to the darker materials.

These four pieces will be joined by two exceptional products for the home: the Beolab 90 speakers and the Beovision Harmony television. Offering unprecedented performance and adapting seamlessly to their living space, they both offer a luxurious, immersive audiovisual and surround sound experience when used together.

Beolab 90 Berluti Edition

Experience the most powerful sound experience Bang & Olufsen has ever created. Featuring 8,200 watts of musical power, the intelligent Beolab 90 adapts to its surroundings and preferred listening modes to create an unprecedented level of musical power and precision. From the position and orientation of the drivers to the placement of the cooling fins, everything is shaped to optimise performance. The base of the aluminium speaker is customised with Berluti’s Venezia leather - with a TDM Intenso patina to create a bold design statement and is the perfect match for Beovision Harmony Berluti Edition.

These four pieces will be joined by two exceptional products for the home: the Beolab 90 speakers and the Beovision Harmony television.

Beovision Harmony Berluti Edition

Originally unveiled at Milan Design Week in 2019 as a remarkable combination of art and technology. When not in use, the 77-inch TV folds down into a sculptural shape with the panels partially covering the screen, then fanning out and elevating the screen above them to perfect viewing height when turned on. Featuring an LG 4k resolution OLED screen and motorised floor stand, infused in Berluti’s DNA through exceptionally fine, perforated and patinated Venezia leather covering the speaker panels, it offers a unique interactive experience.

Local availability

The Berluti edition Beoplay H95, Beosound A1, Beosound Balance and Sound Pouch will be available in limited quantities in select Berluti and Bang & Olufsen stores and e-shops from May 28th 2021.

The made-to-order Beovision Harmony and Beolab 90 will be available to order from May 28th and will be showcased in select Berluti and Bang & Olufsen stores.

INTERVIEW

MARIA FERNANDA

Maria Fernanda, a Mexican living and working in Qatar, and wife of Panama’s ambassador here, shares her insights into Qatar and its culture. Her arrival in Qatar began with a glittering wedding celebration, where she was immediately enveloped by Qatari culture—a culture she has gone on to embrace with enthusiasm.

Fernanda is an engaging interviewee who opens up to Dunes Magazine about life in Qatar, what led her here, her work, and future plans. She even shares her favorite Arabic word …

1. First tell us a little bit about yourself.

I am a 28-year-old Mexican woman in love with life, nature, my family, and Qatar.

I studied Finance in Mexico and then did my Masters in Business Administration in Turkey, where I lived for almost six years while my father was serving as a Diplomat. Previously, l lived in the US, Spain, Turkey, and Mexico.

2. How did you choose Qatar?

People always ask me, how a Mexican, married to a Panamanian she met in Istanbul ends up living in Qatar? I am sure it was written in my destiny to live here, Maktub.

I met my husband when he was serving as Panama’s Ambassador to the State of Qatar, so that’s why I came here. He had lived here for almost three years; the passion with which he spoke to me about the country that he was living in, made me want to know everything about it.

Ever since I was growing up in Mexico I admired Sheikah Moza Bint Nasser, so more than me choosing Qatar, I take it as a dream come true. Here we can observe and learn from the best, and I always say: Qatar, is the best place to be.

3. Can you tell us more about the TV episodes about Qatari culture?

The Ministry of Culture and Sports in the State of Qatar has a cultural body under its umbrella called the “Qatari Forum for Authors.”

Our TV episodes are weekly segments presented on the YouTube channel and social networking sites of the Qatari Forum for Authors, in which we discuss various topics about Qatari culture and heritage, by introducing books written by Qatari and non-Qatari authors. The episodes address non-Arabic speakers inside and outside Qatar and all members of society.

The episodes aim:

• To introduce Qatari culture and heritage and encourage people to get to know the State of Qatar.

• To implement the strategy of the Ministry of Culture and Sports and its values in Qatar, in order to foster openness towards others, and promote dialogue and understanding between people all over the world.

• To present positive contributions from those who live inside Qatar and express their love by their actions.

Recently we also started to record the videos in Spanish, which is my mother language.

I love the value and respect that is given to older people and to their family name; legacy here is everything

4. How did you learn about Qatari culture and who helped you?

I am incredibly lucky to say that one of the first places that I went the first time I came to Doha was to the Ministry of Culture and Sports, there, I not only met one of the most professional and well-organized teams I have ever seen, but I also got to meet my new family. The team from the Ministry of Culture and Sports have guided me ever since the first day that I came here, the day we all celebrated one of the most beautiful events of my life—my wedding.

5. Tell us something you learned from Qatari culture that you consider your favorite.

Tolerance and acceptance of diversity, Qatar is a country with more foreigners than nationals and yet we all manage to live here peacefully and in harmony.

Also, I love the value and respect that is given to older people and to their family name; legacy here is everything.

6. Are you planning to write your own book? If so, what would it be about?

Yes, I am; actually we are in the process of writing it. The inspiration came from the team at the Ministry of Culture and Sports, they are a true example of women’s empowerment.

7. What is your greatest achievement and what is your dream?

Thank God, I believe I am just starting; this is only the beginning.

I would say that my greatest achievement has been to stay strong and become stronger day by day; fighting for what I have worked for and protecting it.

My dream, is to be able to share as much as possible.

My husband and I always say that: Power, is the ability to help others.

8. Favorite place in Qatar?

When someone said the phrase “You’ve got the best of both worlds” I think they were referring to Doha. In every corner you can find tradition, culture, and heritage while the city is also at the highest level in terms of modernity, innovation, and sustainability.

MIA Museum, Education City, and Qatar National Museum are definitely my favorites.

9. Favorite Arabic word?

Maktub (means fate or destiny). I actually learned it in an article from one of my husband’s books. In other words, it means to trust in the path that God has written for you.