VOLUME 16 ISSUE 02 WINTER 2023
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L’ H E U R E D U D I A M A N T
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V EN ETI AN PRI N CESS
Introducing Jena, a rich and vibrant high jewellery collection inspired by the timeless geometry and divine fruits found in Islamic gardens. From radiant pomegranates to tender figs, each art piece serves as a testament to the wonders of nature. For centuries, geometry has held a profound significance in the realm of Islam, shaping the very essence of its architecture. Just as every arch and every curve tells a tale of intention and precision, the Jena collection embodies the same artistic spirit. Established in 1930, Al Zain is driven by a bold vision to introduce Arabian heritage through contemporary art forms. Al Zain has expanded its presence in the Gulf with over 14 boutiques across the region and a recent global expansion to the United States of America.
WELCOME
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First Impression
A word from the editor-in-chief
December 2023
Editorial Editor in Chief Khalid Ahmed Juman Deputy Editor in Chief Ahmed Khunji Art Director Ronald Fuentes Features Editor Tariq Khonji Editors Amy Vaya Mohammed Hassan Charlie Holding Marketing and Sales International Media Sales Director Hussain Al Zaimoor Production Production Support Venkatesan J. S IT support Digital Manager Hussain Al Anjawi
DURRAH LUXURY MAGAZINE PO Box 13990, Manama, Kingdom of Bahrain T. +973 77077777 F. +973 17226555
Durrah is back with yet another issue offering carefully curated content from the world of luxury. In this issue, we talk to HH Shaikha Hessa Bint Khalifa Al Khalifa to find out more about the newly developed INJAZ Bahrain Youth Hub and the challenges faced by the youth today. Al Habtoor Group Vice Chairman and CEO, Mohammed Khalaf Al Habtoor, who reflects on Dubai’s growth and reveals details of the iconic Al Habtoor Tower. Our exclusive interview with Durrat Al Bahrain CEO, Yasser Al Hammadi reveals the latest details on Jawharat Al Murjan and how the development sets itself apart in the Bahraini real estate landscape. We also gain insights into the luxury world’s latest developments from DAMIANI Group President, Guido Grassi Damiani; David Tedeschi Regional Director Latin America & Caribbean, Middle East & Africa – Hublot; and Christophe Ramel, Regional Director - Middle East, India & Africa - Vacheron Constantin, and a bevy of industry leaders. We explore the culinary vision of Ritz-Carlton Bahrain with Director of Food and Beverage, William Fily and Executive Chef, Joergen
Sodemann. We also cover the latest edition of Mara’ee, Bahrain’s Animal Production Show, held under the patronage of His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa. Also in our pages, we highlight the Forever Is Now exhibition, which brought together 14 international artists, including Bahraini artist Rashid Al Khalifa, with each contributing contemporary artworks that seamlessly blend the past and present. Needless to say, those are just samplings of what the issue has to offer. As you have come to expect, the magazine is also filled to the brim with breathtaking destinations, prestigious hotels, delectable gourmet food, invigorating perfumes, and essential lifestyle items just to name a few.
COVER IMAGE Serene Lifestyle DURRAH is a premium quarterly English-language luxury lifestyle magazine, covering topics including VIP interviews, fashion, yachting, architecture, art and culture, jewellery and travel, Durrah’s quality is unsurpassed. Durrah, in Arabic, translates to ‘Pearl’, and focuses on luxury that is based on substance and lifestyle with intellect, rather than excess. On contemporary living that evolves from deepset roots, rather than globalization, ensuring an inherently authentic flavour for a globally travelled audience. With a core focus on the colourful fusion of both traditional and modern elements that make up the Arabian identity, Durrah aims to promote and preserve all of the elements that make the Arabian Gulf so unique. Durrah adopts international standards, however also remains closely connected to Middle Eastern heritage, culture and achievements, all of which are prominently featured.
Enjoy your read!
Khalid Ahmed Juman Editor in Chief
ISSN 2210-1322
DURRAHMAGAZINE
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CONTENTS
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CONTENTS
December 2023
Volume 16 Issue 02 Winter 2023
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Editor’s Letter
Interview with Mohammed Khalaf Al Habtoor, Vice Chairman and CEO of Al Habtoor Group
Interview with Vacheron Constantin Regional Director - Middle East, India and Africa, Christophe Ramel
First Impression
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Showcasing the Best
Bahrain Animal Production Show (Mara’ee) 2023
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Celebrating Historic Ties American Mission Hospital
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Empowering Tomorrow’s Leaders
Interview with HH Shaikha Hessa Bint Khalifa Al Khalifa
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Fusion of Art and History
CulturVator - Art D’Egypte’s 3rd international exhibition, Forever Is Now
Shaping Skylines
Watchmaking Mastery
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Interview with Durrat Al Bahrain CEO, Yasser Al Hammadi
Interview with Montegrappa CEO, Giuseppe Aquila
A Vision of Luxury
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Golden Opulence History of luxury
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Radiant Luxury
Interview with Damiani Group President, Guido Grassi Damiani
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A Masterpiece in Fusion
Interview with Hublot’s Regional Director of Latin America, Middle East & Africa, David Tedeschi
Crafting Luxury Excellence
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Exceptional Experiences
Interview with Ritz-Carlton Bahrain Director of F&B, William Fily and Executive Chef, Joergen Sodemann
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A Desert Oasis
Raffles Al Areen Palace
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Setting New Standards
World Arabian Horse Championship 2023
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Tiffany’s New Jewel
Blue Book 2023: Out of the Blue
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Adler Joailliers’ masterpiece of high jewellery
Watches for men
The latest in luxury cosmetics
Treasure of Nature
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Chain Reaction with A Milanese Twist
Haute Horlogerie
Beauty Trends
088
112
Watches for Women
Elie Saab’s Bridal Fall 2024 Collection
Elegant Timekeeping
Artful Glamor
Pomellato’s Catene Collection
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114
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Perfumes for men
Oscar de la Renta Fall 2024 Bridal Collection
Discovering the World’s Wonders
Vacheron Constantin’s Les Cabinotiers – Récits de Voyages
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Sprinting Towards Success TAG Heuer Carrera Chronograph
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Precise Refinement
Hublot Big Bang Tourbillon SR_A by Samuel Ross
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Winter Tales
OMEGA’s festive season campaign
Fresh and Bold
Playful Sophistication
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116
Perfumes for women
Hermes’ Men’s Summer 2023 Collection
Alluring Fragrances
100
Illuminating the Path to Progress Basra Lights Village
104
Capturing Equine Majesty Interview with Katarzyna OkrzesikMikołajek
Summer Serenity
118
Evolving Elegance
Tom Ford’s Spring 2023 Men’s Collection
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Signature Silhouettes
Louis Vuitton’s Spring-Summer 2023 Women’s Collection
CONTENTS
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December 2023
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138 166
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Discover California
Reviews of the latest luxury brands in the automotive industry
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154
192
The latest in ladies’ brand name bags
Sculpted Couture
Chanel’s Spring-Summer 2023 Haute Couture Collection
A Rich Tapestry of Experiences
Driving In Style
Culture, Nature, and Luxury
Morocco: Kingdom of Light
Saadiyat Island Abu Dhabi
Published by Assouline
128
156
194
Mallet London’s footwear collection
Artist Jaume Plensa
Published by Assouline
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160
196
The latest in high-end men’s shoes
The best hotels in the world
Luxury items for men
Exquisite Style
Reviving Rhythm
Quality and Class
Intimacy of Scale
Redefining Hospitality
Moroccan Decorative Arts
Must Haves for Men
134
166
202
The latest in designer brand women’s shoes
The best spas in the world
Luxury items for women
Stepping in Style
138
A Universe of Art The Yoomoota collection
142
Boutique Experience
Luxurious shopping destinations
Serene Treatments
174
Refined Taste Top dining locations
180
Personalization and Performance Genesis, ‘Distinctly Yours’
Must Haves for Women
208
Final Pearl
Bahrain Formula 1 Grand Prix and Bahrain Festival City
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SPECIAL FEATURE
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01 Mara’ee 2023 featured several shows 02 His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa
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SHOWCASING THE BEST
Under the patronage of His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa, the opening ceremony of the 6th Bahrain Animal Production Show (Mara’ee 2023) was held at the Bahrain International Endurance Village. The event is organized by the Ministry of Municipalities Affairs and Agriculture.
The sixth edition of the Bahrain Animal Production Show (Mara’ee 2023) reflects the kingdom’s keenness under the leadership of HM the King to achieve a set of strategic goals that focus on global food production, protecting the wildlife cultural heritage, and enhancing the sector’s contribution to domestic produce. The exhibition featured a large number of specialized events and presentations in the field of animal production, birds, and poultry. Animal wealth is considered one of the essential pillars in enhancing food security. It provides a platform for commercial and investment deals, technology transfer, experience exchange, education, entertainment, and competitions, as well as an opportunity to host exhibitions, workshops, and accompanying seminars. This edition hosted daily shows featuring various types of pets, productive animals, birds, and competitions among different breeds. The public directly interacted with these displays, an
anticipated opportunity for enthusiasts, collectors, and all visitors. The live animal display sections included showcasing camels, featuring a collection of Bahraini camels with their respective breeds, decorative camels, and racing camels. It also highlighted the most important breeds of horses and other equine species raised in the Kingdom of Bahrain, along with major global cattle breeds specializing in milk and meat production in the Kingdom. A tent was dedicated to displaying significant breeds of dogs bred in Bahrain, as well as another tent showcasing authentic pedigrees of cats bred in the Kingdom. Additionally, there was a display of various major breeds of large ornamental birds raised in Bahrain. Trade in ornamental birds is popular in Bahrain and across the Gulf. Bahrain boasts internationally recognized judges in this field. A tent was allocated to showcase a collection of the most important breeds of small ornamental birds bred in Bahrain.
Various associations, clubs, and companies participated in the exhibitions. Following art and horse riding performances, HM the King awarded first-place winners in various competitions with prizes. The awards were for Arabian hounds (saluki), horses, camels, pigeons and cattle. The winners were His Highness Shaikh Nasser bin Hamad Al Khalifa, Mohsen Ali Abdullah Hussain, Abdullah Ahmed Shaheen Al Mudhahiki, Muhammad Salem Al Maamari, Hassan Jabr Hassan Al-Nuaimi, and Hussain Habib Ali. After that, His Majesty honored the event sponsors. HM the King expressed the kingdom’s keenness on supporting and developing the livestock and agricultural sector, as it is crucial for achieving comprehensive development, increasing national food security, and ensuring sustainability. His Majesty commended the government’s programs, plans, and projects led by HRH the Crown Prince and Prime Minister that focus
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on agricultural, animal resources, and marine development to further enhance food security and the food industry. His Majesty said it was important to continue efforts to boost Bahrain’s status as a destination that attracts investment through creating opportunities and a conducive environment for growth. His Majesty thanked the Ministry of Municipalities and Agriculture for its efforts in organizing the event, as part of its initiatives to support innovation and advancement in agricultural and animal production. His Majesty also noted the efforts of the Royal Guard in supporting the success of the event. His Majesty said that the participation of local companies in this edition demonstrated the support for local producers, commending the cultural, educational, and entertainment activities at the exhibition. mun.gov.bh
03 HM the King saluting the crowd
05 HM the King greeting attendees
04 HM the King with Wael bin Nasser Al Mubarak, the Municipalities Affairs and Agriculture Minister
06, 08 Horses were one of the main showcases in the event
SPECIAL FEATURE
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07 The exhibition included traditional musical performances
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SPECIAL FEATURE
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Celebrating HISTORIC TIES His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa received Dr. Jaleela bint Al Sayed Jawad, Minister of Health, Dr. George Cheriyan, CEO and CMO of American Mission Hospital, and Julia Tovey, Group CEO of American Mission Hospital.
HM the King received a model of the newly opened hospital from Dr. Cheriyan, along with a book titled ‘A Journey Through Time’, a book written by Julia Tovey documenting the history of the American mission since 1902. HM the King commended the hospital’s efforts for providing the best medical care to citizens and residents and the excellent reputation it maintains, making it the region’s first leading hospital with over 120 years of experience in the field. HM the King hailed the historic Bahrain-US relations in various sectors, including in health and medicine. Dr. Cheriyan thanked HM the King for his ongoing support, which reflects the long-standing cooperation between the two countries. panerai.com
UP CLOSE AND PERSONAL
01 HH Shaikha Hessa Bint Khalifa Al Khalifa
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EMPOWERING TOMORROW’S LEADERS By collaborating with industry professionals and successful entrepreneurs, INJAZ Bahrain offers students practical insights into the world of business and entrepreneurship. Durrah spoke to HH Shaikha Hessa Bint Khalifa Al Khalifa to find out more about the newly developed INJAZ Bahrain Youth Hub, the 15th annual Young Entrepreneurs Competition, and the challenges faced by the youth today. CAN YOU TELL US A BIT ABOUT THE NEWLY DEVELOPED INJAZ BAHRAIN YOUTH HUB? WHAT ARE ITS OFFERINGS AND HOW DOES IT IMPROVE UPON THE OVERALL EXPERIENCES FOR THE YOUTH? The newly established INJAZ Bahrain Youth HUB is a transformative educational center designed to enrich the overall experiences of young individuals. It serves as a dynamic environment where students can come together to meet, discuss, and engage with expert mentors, creating a nurturing space for personal and professional growth. In addition to these mentoring opportunities, the youth hub will be equipped with top-notch sports facilities, including Football and Padel courts, encouraging physical fitness and wellbeing as an integral part of youth development and promoting sports literacy. This holistic approach recognizes the importance of both mental and physical health in shaping well-rounded individuals. Furthermore, the presence of a dedicated event space within the HUB opens up possibilities for hosting a wide range of workshops, seminars, and events. This multi-functional area not only enhances the learning experience but also promotes collaboration and innovation among the youth, providing them with valuable skills and experiences that extend beyond the classroom. By offering this comprehensive suite of offerings, INJAZ Bahrain will be poised to empower
the next generation with the tools and resources they need to succeed in an ever-changing world, fostering not only academic excellence but also holistic personal growth and community engagement.
YOU RECENTLY CONCLUDED THE 15TH ANNUAL YOUNG ENTREPRENEURS COMPETITION. CAN YOU HIGHLIGHT SOME OF THE NOTABLE PROJECTS THAT IMPRESSED YOU THIS YEAR? The 15th annual INJAZ Bahrain Young Entrepreneurs Competition marked another year of innovation and entrepreneurial prowess, showcasing an inspiring array of projects that left a lasting impression on the judges and attendees alike. This platform, dedicated to nurturing and celebrating the entrepreneurial spirit of Bahrain’s youth, serves as a testament to the incredible talent and creativity that emerges from Bahrain’s youth. In a world driven by rapid technological advancements and a growing emphasis on sustainability, these young entrepreneurs have not only risen to the challenge but have also exceeded expectations with their forward-thinking and creative business ideas. As we explore into the highlights of this year’s competition, we have seen a diverse range of company ideas, each one reflecting the passion, dedication, and vision of the next generation of Bahraini entrepreneurs. These companies
are not merely ideas; they are tangible representations of the future, offering solutions to real-world challenges while embodying the values of innovation and sustainability. Some of the standout projects that left an indelible mark on this milestone edition of the competition include ForNature, a student company from Bahrain Institute of Banking and Finance. Fornature is a Bahraini brand founded by BIBF students for recycling paper into unique furniture pieces. Its aim is to eliminate and recycle paper waste into creative furniture for an eco-friendly environment and contribute to a healthier world for future generations. Another standout project is JusTap, a student company from British University of Bahrain. JusTap is a company that focuses on providing a more sustainable approach to using business cards. JusTap is an Aluminum Oxide card that is powered by NFC technology. With this card, the user can effortlessly connect and transfer his/her desired data to others in a matter of seconds. There is also WYAK, a student company from Modern Knowledge Schools. The company strives to achieve a more safe, secure, and private environment by providing a sophisticated multi-purpose biometric lock that fulfills various uses. These young entrepreneurs exemplify the creativity, innovation, and social awareness that the youth of Bahrain bring to the table, reflecting a promising future for entrepreneurship and sustainable development in the Kingdom of Bahrain.
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02 His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa
December 2023
03 Her Royal Highness Princess Sabeeka bint Ibrahim Al Khalifa and HH Shaikha Hessa Bint Khalifa Al Khalifa in front of “Athar”, the Bahraini women commemorative monument
YOU ANNOUNCED A PARTNERSHIP WITH HOPE VENTURES TO PRODUCE A YOUTHORIENTED SEGMENT OF THE HIT REALITY TV SHOW, BEBAN. WHAT DO YOU HOPE TO ACHIEVE WITH THIS NEW INITIATIVE?
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INJAZ Bahrain holds a strong dedication to nurturing entrepreneurship as a driving force for economic progress and advancement within the Kingdom of Bahrain. Acknowledging that the younger generation embodies the future of Bahrain’s entrepreneurial, our collaboration with Hope Ventures to create a TV segment focused on youth in the TV show “Beban AlShabab” is motivated by a comprehensive mission. We aim to inspire and motivate young individuals to embark on their entrepreneurial journeys. Beban AlShabab’s TV show will serve as a compelling platform where young entrepreneurs can pitch their innovative business ideas to a panel of judges, offering them valuable exposure and potential investment opportunities. By showcasing the aspirations and creativity of these budding entrepreneurs, we hope to ignite a spark of inspiration among viewers, encouraging them to explore entrepreneurship as a career path. The collaboration with Hope Ventures aims to foster a culture of entrepreneurship in Bahrain. By featuring young entrepreneurs and their ventures, we aim to create a supportive and nurturing environment that values innovation and enterprise. This, in turn, will contribute to the overall growth and diversification of the Bahraini economy, as a thriving entrepreneurial ecosystem is essential for sustained economic development.
HOW HAS INJAZ BAHRAIN POSITIVELY IMPACTED THE LIVES OF YOUNG PEOPLE IN BAHRAIN? CAN YOU PROVIDE SOME EXAMPLES OF SUCCESS STORIES THAT HIGHLIGHT THE INSPIRATIONAL OUTCOMES FOR STUDENTS?
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INJAZ Bahrain has greatly enriched the lives of young individuals in Bahrain. The programs and initiatives delivered have empowered students with essential skills and knowledge, equipping them for success in their professional and personal journeys. There are numerous Success stories throughout INJAZ Bahrain’s journey, allow me to share a few that are recent. INJAZ Bahrain’s Company Program and the extended Entaliq Program has led to numerous success stories where students have gained valuable entrepreneurial skills and hands-on business experience. One of the outcomes of this program is “Can Company”, initiated by students from the University of Bahrain. Can Company won the “Best Social Impact” Award in the National
Company Competition in 2019. Can Company is operating until today, thriving and generating substantial profits.Another notable successful company, “ReQahwa” Company, started by students at the University of Bahrain which is specialized in coffee recycling. Instead of disposing of coffee waste, these enterprising students repurpose it into innovative products that benefit both individuals and the environment. INJAZ Bahrain ALUMNI Chapter has been instrumental in fostering ongoing support and networking opportunities for program graduates. Alumni have utilized these platforms to share success stories of their career accomplishments and entrepreneurial ventures. Participating in Regional and Global Forums and capitalizing on the power of JA network is a hey strength to showcasing student’s innovative business ideas and compete for recognition and awards at the prestigious Young Entrepreneurs competition held by INJAZ AL Arab. Success stories from these competitions include students who have developed groundbreaking concepts and impressed judges with their entrepreneurial skills. INJAZ Bahrain has been fortunate to have won the regionals 5 times during the tenor of the award. Not only this, INJAZ Bahrain provides opportunities for students to gain global exposure through participation in international events and forums such as the Global Alumni Forum. Success stories in this context include students who represented their country in global competitions or attended international conferences. These experiences have broadened their horizons, exposed them to diverse cultures and ideas, and helped them develop a global mindset and expand their professional networks. Overall, the success stories from Injaz’s programs highlight the impact they have on young individuals, empowering them with entrepreneurial skills, fostering a sense of community through alumni chapters, providing recognition and exposure through competitions, and offering global opportunities for personal and professional growth. These stories serve as inspiration for other students and showcase the effectiveness of INJAZ Bahrain’s initiatives in nurturing the next generation of leaders and entrepreneurs.
WHAT STRATEGIES OR INITIATIVES HAS INJAZ BAHRAIN IMPLEMENTED TO EFFECTIVELY ENGAGE AND INSPIRE STUDENTS TO DEVELOP A BUSINESSORIENTED OUTLOOK AND PARTICIPATE IN THE GLOBAL ECONOMY? INJAZ Bahrain has implemented a range of effective strategies and initiatives to engage and
inspire students, fostering a business-oriented outlook and preparing them for participation in the global economy. One key approach is the emphasis on experiential learning across all programs. Through hands-on activities, students learn by actively doing, gaining practical skills and insights that extend beyond theoretical knowledge. Real-world scenarios and case studies are integrated into the programs, offering students tangible examples of how business concepts operate in the actual workplace, making learning more engaging and relatable. Furthermore, INJAZ Bahrain leverages the expertise of volunteers from the business community. These volunteers serve as mentors and program facilitators, sharing their industry experience and insights with students. This interaction not only provides students with valuable access to role models but also connects them with mentors who can offer guidance, encouragement, and a firsthand understanding of what it takes to succeed in the business world. Through these collaborative efforts, INJAZ Bahrain effectively inspires and equips students with the skills and knowledge necessary to thrive in the global economy.
IN YOUR EXPERIENCE, WHAT ARE SOME COMMON BARRIERS OR SOCIETAL FACTORS THAT HINDER YOUNG PEOPLE FROM REALIZING THEIR FULL POTENTIAL? AND HOW DOES INJAZ BAHRAIN ADDRESS THESE BARRIERS? Like all Industries there are always challenges, barriers and societal factors that can hinder youth from realizing their full potential. Here are some common ones: Limited exposure to opportunities: Some youth may lack exposure to diverse career paths, mentorship, and networking opportunities. This can limit their understanding of available options and hinder their career development. INJAZ Bahrain bridges this gap by connecting students with professionals through mentoring programs, career fairs, and networking events, which help expand their horizons and inspire them to explore different paths. Another one is Economic Challenges. Economic constraints, such as unemployment and saturated jobs, can restrict youth from accessing resources and opportunities. INJAZ Bahrain addresses this by offering entrepreneurship programs that empower young people to start their own businesses and become self-reliant. These programs provide training, mentorship, and access to funding, enabling youth to overcome economic barriers. Another barrier is social and cultural norms: Societal expectations and cultural norms can shape perceptions about suitable careers for youth, leading to limited choices and potential. INJAZ Bahrain promotes a culture of innovation,
creativity, and entrepreneurship, challenging traditional notions of career paths. By fostering an environment that encourages exploration and risk-taking, INJAZ Bahrain helps young people overcome social and cultural barriers. Another challenge is lack of soft skills. Soft skills, such as communication, problemsolving, and teamwork, are crucial for success in the modern workplace. However, many youths may lack these skills due to limited opportunities for practical application. INJAZ Bahrain incorporates experiential learning in its programs, allowing students to develop and practice these skills through hands-on activities, simulations, and real-world projects. In terms of challenges, there is also the lack of sound Finance and Money Management Skills: Limited knowledge in the areas of financial management and planning, leading a financially secured life, and the basics of money management are necessary skills for any individual to lead a successful and meaningful life. INJAZ Bahrain addresses this by providing educational programs and workshops that supplement formal education, equipping youth with financial literacy and practical skills needed for the job market and for the youth to start their family and professional life with sound decisions and planning. INJAZ Bahrain’s program play a vital role in addressing these challenges by providing educational support, mentorship, exposure to career opportunities, and skill-building programs. By empowering youth with knowledge, skills, and confidence, INJAZ Bahrain helps them overcome societal challenges and enables them to realize their full potential.
HOW DO YOU ENSURE THAT THE PROGRAMS OFFERED BY INJAZ BAHRAIN ARE RELEVANT AND ALIGNED WITH THE NEEDS AND ASPIRATIONS OF TODAY’S YOUTH? INJAZ Bahrain strongly emphasizes on ensuring that its programs remain relevant and aligned with the evolving needs and aspirations of today’s youth. To achieve this, several key strategies are in place. Regular Updates and Localization: The programs are regularly updated to stay current and responsive to changing circumstances. This adaptability ensures that the content remains timely and applicable, reflecting the shifting demands of the business world yet ensuring it suits our society. By staying updated on market dynamics, Injaz can tailor their programs to equip participants with the skills and knowledge needed to thrive in the current business landscape. Industry Partnerships: INJAZ Bahrain establishes strong partnerships with industry leaders and organizations. Collaborating with companies operating in diverse sectors provides valuable insights into market dynamics and enables INJAZ to design
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“This platform, dedicated to nurturing and celebrating
the entrepreneurial spirit of Bahrain’s youth, serves as a testament to the incredible talent and creativity that emerges from Bahrain’s youth.”
programs that align with the evolving needs of the market. Industry partnerships lead to opportunities for internships, mentorships, and real-world projects, enhancing the practical relevance of INJAZ programs. Instead of adopting a one-size-fits-all approach, strive to develop customized partnership solutions. Analyze the unique circumstances and goals of each partner and design collaborative initiatives or programs that align with their specific requirements. This tailored approach demonstrates that you value and understand their individual needs, making the programs more relevant to a partner. Entrepreneurial Mindset Development: INJAZ fosters an entrepreneurial mindset among program participants. This involves cultivating skills such as creativity, adaptability, problem-solving, and risk-taking. By instilling an entrepreneurial mindset, INJAZ programs can empower individuals to identify and seize opportunities in the evolving market dynamics, whether it’s starting their own ventures or driving innovation within existing organizations. Practical exercises, case studies, and mentorship programs are incorporated to develop and nurture this mindset. Monitoring and Evaluating Impact: INJAZ Bahrain actively seeks feedback from the students, volunteers and educators who participate in all programs. This provides valuable feedback in refining and enhancing the programs’ quality. It helps ensure that the programs effectively address the specific needs and interests of the students themselves, making the learning experience more engaging and impactful. Emphasis on Digital Skills: Given the increasing digitalization of industries, INJAZ is placing a strong emphasis on digital skills. This includes training in areas such as data analytics, digital marketing, e-commerce, and emerging technologies like artificial intelligence and circular economies. By equipping participants with these skills, INJAZ will
ensure they it prepared to navigate the evolving market dynamics driven by digital transformation. By combining these strategies, INJAZ Bahrain maintains a dynamic and responsive approach, ensuring that its programs remain not only relevant but also highly effective in preparing young people for the challenges and opportunities of the modern world.
LOOKING AHEAD, WHAT ARE YOUR ASPIRATIONS AND GOALS FOR INJAZ BAHRAIN IN TERMS OF INSPIRING AND EMPOWERING STUDENTS IN THE COMING YEARS? INJAZ Bahrain is driven by a forwardlooking strategy set by its Board Members. The strategy framework sets out ambitious goals and aspiration for a HUB that nurtures Talents and prepares youth to succeed in the Global Economy. First and foremost, we aim to expand our reach and impact by increasing the number of students who participate in our programs. We believe that every young individual should have access to the valuable skills and knowledge we provide. Additionally, we are committed to addressing the pressing issue of sustainability by developing and delivering new programs that educate students about sustainability practices and their entrepreneurial mindset. This is in line with our dedication to equipping students with the tools they need to address global challenges and create a more sustainable future. Continuously improving the effectiveness of our programs is crucial through incorporating feedback and evaluation mechanisms. This includes conducting research and analysis to identify areas for improvement and refining the programs, teaching methodologies, and resource
materials. This is necessary to stay updated with evolving market dynamics and emerging skills required in the workforce. Furthermore, we are actively working to strengthen our partnerships with businesses, government entities, and educational institutions. Collaborating with these stakeholders provides students with internships, scholarships and employment opportunities and initiatives. These partnerships are essential for bridging the gap between education and the workforce, helping students transition smoothly into their careers and offering programs aligned with industry needs that are relevant and impactful. Leveraging on technology and innovative approaches to enhance programs and engage with youth effectively is a crucial direction. These mandates incorporating online learning platforms, leveraging digital tools for program delivery, and exploring emerging technologies such as virtual reality or artificial intelligence to create immersive learning experiences. Promoting and supporting young entrepreneurs by providing them with the necessary resources, mentorship, and access to networks is one of INJAZ’s strengths. Further developing our Flagship Company Program and increasing participation in the Entaliq Program is an area of focus to help young people turn their business ideas into reality. By nurturing our youth interests and talents, we aim to empower young individuals to succeed in their chosen paths and become confident contributors to our society and the global economy. Through these strategic initiatives, INJAZ Bahrain aspires to continue inspiring and empowering the youth of Bahrain, preparing them for success and positive impact in the years ahead. injazbh.org
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MASTERPIECE
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Fusion of Art and History
01 “Forever Is Now” at the Pyramids of Giza
CulturVator - Art D’Egypte recently launched its third international exhibition, “Forever Is Now,” amidst the iconic backdrop of the Pyramids of Giza. The exhibition brought together 14 international artists, including Bahraini artist Rashid Al Khalifa, with each contributing contemporary artworks that seamlessly blend the past and present while celebrating history, culture, and human creativity. The opening ceremony started with a tour for journalists and media professionals from various local, regional, and international media outlets, allowing them to closely examine the artworks and convey them to the public with credibility. During the tour, the participating artists provided detailed explanations of their contemporary art and sculptural installations. These artworks include a geometric sculpture by artist Dionysios titled “Meditation on Light,” which employs artificial intelligence; a hyper-realistic sculpture by artist Carol Feuerman titled “Egyptian Woman in the Form of the Goddess Hathor,” evoking the ancient Egyptian deity of love and fertility; and parts of a maze by artist Rashid Al Khalifa, emerging from the earth at different angles, each adorned with patterns inspired by the book “Tower of Babel” by Jesuit scholar Athanasius Kircher in 1679. The contemporary artworks vary in materials, including “fiberglass, steel, stone, and marble,” offering an artful and environmentally friendly experience. The event featured artists from various corners of the world, such as Arne Quinze, Arthur Lescher, Azza Al-Qubaisi, Dionysios, Costas Varotsos, JR, Stéphane Breuer, Mohamed Banawy, Pilar Zeta, Rashid Al Khalifa, Rashed Al Shashai, Sabine Marcelis, and Sam Shendi. These artists found inspiration in the historical significance of the
Pyramids and aimed to inspire viewers with their creative interpretations. These artists’ projects ranged from Dutch artist Sabine Marcelis’ “Ra,” which harnessed the power of the sun, to French artist Stéphane Breuer’s “Temple •I•,” a monument that combined the material and spiritual to preserve digital memories. Sam Shendi, an Egyptian-British artist, presented “The Phantom Temple,” bridging the past and future through vibrant sculptures. “CulturVator - Art D’Egypte” has played a pivotal role in redefining contemporary art in Egypt by bridging the gap between tradition and innovation. Their annual exhibitions, including “Eternal Light,” “Nothing Vanishes... Everything Transforms,” and “Narratives Rescued,” have showcased contemporary Egyptian art in historical settings. The “Eternal Now” exhibitions held at the Giza Pyramids have been particularly noteworthy. “Forever Is Now” at the Pyramids of Giza is an extraordinary exhibition that harmonizes history, culture, and contemporary art. It is a testament to the power of human creativity and the importance of cultural exchange among artists, transcending time and boundaries to create an unforgettable experience for all who visit. rashidalkhalifa.com/work/forever-is-now/
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MASTERPIECE
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02 Artist Rashid Al Khalifa 03 Parts of a maze, each adorned with patterns 04 Harmonizing history, culture, and contemporary art
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“The contemporary artworks vary in materials,
including “fiberglass, steel, stone, marble,” offering an artful and environmentally friendly experience.”
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UP CLOSE AND PERSONAL
01 Al Habtoor Group Vice Chairman and CEO, Mohammed Khalaf Al Habtoor
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December 2023
SHAPING SKYLINES Mohammed Khalaf Al Habtoor, Vice Chairman and CEO of Al Habtoor Group, reflects on Dubai’s growth, entrepreneurial spirit, and the iconic Al Habtoor Tower. GROWING UP IN DUBAI, WHAT WERE SOME OF THE DEFINING EXPERIENCES THAT SHAPED YOUR ENTREPRENEURIAL SPIRIT AND INTEREST IN BUSINESS? Growing up in Dubai during its transformative years, I had the unique opportunity to witness the city’s evolution firsthand. The relentless pursuit of innovation and progress inspired my entrepreneurial spirit. The dynamic atmosphere, characterized by rapid urbanization and economic development, instilled in me a passion for contributing to Dubai’s success. Witnessing visionary projects come to life fueled my interest in business, as I recognized the potential to make a meaningful impact on the city’s trajectory.
YOUR FATHER, KHALAF AHMAD AL HABTOOR, IS A PROMINENT BUSINESSMAN AND PIONEER IN DUBAI’S DEVELOPMENT. HOW DID HIS INFLUENCE AND MENTORSHIP SHAPE YOUR APPROACH TO BUSINESS AND PHILANTHROPY? My father, Khalaf Ahmad Al Habtoor, has been a tremendous influence on my approach to business and philanthropy. His dedication to Dubai’s development and pioneering spirit instilled in me a commitment to excellence. His mentorship emphasized the importance of combining business success with a strong sense of social responsibility, which has guided my own endeavors.
YOUR FATHER’S RELATIONSHIP WITH DUBAI’S FORMER RULER, SHEIKH RASHID AL MAKTOUM, WAS CHARACTERIZED BY MUTUAL RESPECT AND COLLABORATION. HOW DID THIS RELATIONSHIP CONTRIBUTE TO DUBAI’S TRANSFORMATION INTO A GLOBAL HUB? Sheikh Rashid Al Maktoum was a mentor to my father, he learnt a lot from him and their shared vision
and commitment to progress has played a pivotal role in Dubai’s transformation into a global hub.
AS THE VICE-CHAIRMAN AND CEO OF AL HABTOOR GROUP, HOW HAS YOUR LEADERSHIP CONTRIBUTED TO THE GROUP’S DIVERSIFICATION AND GROWTH OVER THE YEARS? I’ve been dedicated to steering Al Habtoor Group toward diversification and sustainable growth. Recognizing the importance of adaptability in a dynamic market, we strategically expanded our portfolio into diverse sectors. Our ventures into hospitality, real estate and education have not only mitigated risks associated with market fluctuations but have also positioned the group as a multifaceted player, capable of weathering economic uncertainties while seizing new opportunities.
WHAT ARE SOME OF THE KEY CHALLENGES AND OPPORTUNITIES YOU HAVE FACED IN NAVIGATING DUBAI’S DYNAMIC BUSINESS LANDSCAPE OVER THE DECADES? Adapting to market fluctuations, regulatory changes, and global economic shifts has been demanding. However, these challenges have also opened doors for innovation, strategic partnerships, and entry into emerging markets.
AL HABTOOR TOWER STANDS AS A SYMBOL OF LUXURY AND INNOVATION IN DUBAI’S SKYLINE. CAN YOU SHARE THE VISION AND INSPIRATION BEHIND THIS ARCHITECTURAL MASTERPIECE? The vision was rooted in a desire to contribute an iconic symbol to Dubai’s skyline. We aimed to create a structure that not only showcased modern design and cutting-edge architecture but also embodied the essence of luxury living. The inspiration stemmed from a commitment to redefine residential standards,
offering a dwelling that harmoniously blended opulence and innovation. Our goal was to contribute to Dubai’s reputation as a global metropolis by delivering a residential masterpiece that reflected the city’s progressive spirit.
WHAT ARE SOME OF THE UNIQUE FEATURES AND AMENITIES THAT SET AL HABTOOR TOWER APART AS A PREMIER RESIDENTIAL DESTINATION? By being a premium vertical city through a combination of exclusive features and amenities. State-of-the-art fitness facilities, three floors of exclusive leisure spaces to encourage healthy living and wellbeing. Meticulously designed interiors create an unparalleled residential experience. The tower’s emphasis on panoramic views and architectural elegance further contributes to its status as a distinguished residential address, offering residents a lifestyle of sophistication and comfort.
HOW DOES AL HABTOOR TOWER INTEGRATE INTO THE WIDER VISION OF AL HABTOOR CITY AS A “CITY WITHIN A CITY”? It seamlessly integrates into that vision as the development aims to provide a comprehensive lifestyle, combining residential, hospitality, and leisure components to create a vibrant and self-contained urban environment.
WHAT ROLE DOES SUSTAINABILITY PLAY IN THE DESIGN AND OPERATION OF AL HABTOOR TOWER? Sustainability is a crucial aspect of Al Habtoor Tower’s design and operation. From energy-efficient systems to eco-friendly construction materials, we prioritize environmentally conscious practices to minimize our ecological footprint and contribute to Dubai’s sustainability goals.
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AS AL HABTOOR TOWER CONTINUES TO ATTRACT DISCERNING RESIDENTS, WHAT ARE YOUR PLANS TO MAINTAIN ITS REPUTATION AS THE ULTIMATE PINNACLE OF LUXURY LIVING IN DUBAI? We are committed to continuous refinement and enhancement. This includes introducing innovative services, staying abreast of design trends, and ensuring an exceptional living experience that exceeds the expectations of discerning residents.
WHAT IS NEERA PRIVATE MEMBERS CLUB? WHAT INSPIRED ITS CREATION? AND HOW DOES IT REFLECT YOUR VISION FOR EXCLUSIVE EXPERIENCES IN DUBAI? Neera Private Members Club is designed to be more than just a venue. It’s a cultural and social epicenter that adds vibrancy to Dubai’s dynamic landscape. By fostering an environment where members can engage in cultural events, exclusive gatherings, and meaningful interactions, Neera becomes a hub that contributes to the city’s social tapestry. The inspiration behind it stems from a desire to establish a refined space that embodies exclusivity and sophistication. Dubai’s growing status as a global hub for luxury and entertainment necessitated a venue that goes beyond conventional offerings. alhabtoorcity.com
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02 Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum visits the Al Habtoor Group
04 Meticulously designed interiors
03 Al Habtoor Group photo
06 Al Habtoor Tower
05 Neera Private Members Club
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“It might be the first resort in Bahrain that still maintains its elegance and quality.”
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December 2023
DURRAT AL BAHRAIN, A Vision of Luxury
01 Local designs with sophisticated interiors 02 Durrat Al Bahrain CEO, Yasser Al Hammadi
In this exclusive interview with Durrat Al Bahrain CEO, Yasser Al Hammadi reveals the latest details on Jawharat Al Murjan, the resort’s commitment to sustainability, and how it sets itself in the Bahraini real estate landscape.
COULD YOU SHARE MORE DETAILS ABOUT DURRAT AL BAHRAIN RESORT’S UPCOMING PROJECT, AL MURJAN? The project’s fourth phase is called Jawharat Al Murjan, which follows the completion of three phases with over 1200 villas. Our last handover was in 2018. Jawharat Al Murjan is located on Atoll 5 island, which is the tenth island of the residential islands in the resort. The project comprises more than 200 villas directly overlooking the gulf, whether on the open sea or the coast.
WHAT DISTINGUISHES THIS PHASE FROM THE OTHER PHASES? WHAT SETS THIS PROJECT APART FROM THE PREVIOUS ONES?
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We prioritized renovations in this project and took into consideration new facilities in the market. In terms of design, the front and back facades, room arrangements, and interior spaces are different from the past phases. We implemented new concepts such as built-in sunrooms, external majlis, and lifts in the villa. We take into consideration people’s opinions and requests as we have active technical and marketing teams who gather regularly to examine feedback and market trends, such as the sunroom. When you implement such facilities due to people requesting them, it is the result of a new trend in the market. We also examine the owners’ suggestions. We have over 1200 villas, meaning we have over a thousand owners of the previous villas. When they ask us to make the kitchens bigger, for example, we take it into consideration because it’s good feedback for developing our product. The
kitchen in phases 1 and 2 was small, so we made it bigger in phase 3 according to people’s needs. It was also then designed by Atkins Realis, a British design and engineering consultancy. In phase 3, we had a Bahraini designer who helped increase the kitchen’s size to three times its previous size. Owners’ construction and adjustment requests go through us, so the resort acts like a municipality in that sense. To ensure procedures go smoothly, we regulate construction logistics. We also received a lot of requests to add an external majlis in the outdoor garden. We added many options and renovated a lot of facilities.
DID YOU TAKE SUSTAINABILITY PRACTICES INTO ACCOUNT? Yes, villas are fully equipped for solar system panels and gray water technology installation. We also added insulators to reduce energy consumption; more expenses go into construction materials to save on electricity in the long term.
WHAT IS THE SIZE OF THE VILLAS? Because the island is U-shaped, plot areas vary in size from 650 sqm to 850 sqm. The villa builtup area is approximately 520 sqm.
DESIGN-WISE, HOW WERE YOU ABLE TO GUARANTEE MEETING GLOBAL STANDARDS TO SERVE CLIENT NEEDS, IN PARTICULAR FAMILY NEEDS? In Durrat Al Bahrain, we have engineers, sales team, and marketing professionals with over 15 years of experience, so we have the cumulative experience
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03 Villas with new facilities 04 Cohesive community in Durrat Al Bahrain
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“When it comes to agriculture, we are
considered to have one of the largest agricultural landscapes in Bahrain. ”
to adapt to changes and look for new ideas in the market. In addition, we find and explore new trends in construction and design in both GCC and international exhibitions. We also utilize local design companies with sophisticated offerings, whether design consultants, interiors or construction. The renovation process continues past the construction stage. For example, if the layout plan does not meet the desired product, we demolish or expand and revise spaces. This process is expensive, but we try to cover these expenses during the construction of the villas so that they meet the desired standard in the rollout stage. It is also easier to recognize which changes are needed when viewing the villas.
HOW WAS YOUR PARTICIPATION IN CITYSCAPE BAHRAIN, AND WHAT OPPORTUNITIES DID IT CREATE? Our participation was successful, as we announced the new project and showcased Jawharat Al Murjan’s four villa types and specifications. We have participated in Cityscape ever since its launch in Dubai, Riyadh, and other GCC countries. We hope that Cityscape Bahrain grows bigger and better in the future.
DO YOU HAVE A GOLF COURSE AT THE RESORT? We have a mini-golf course. Everyone practices these hobbies no matter their position, whether they are normal citizens, ministers, CEOs, or ambassadors. People also feel safe because the project is gated. When it comes to agriculture, we are considered to have one of the largest agricultural landscapes in Bahrain. We try to preserve the landscape to ensure its longevity and quality.
IN GENERAL, WHAT SETS DURRAT AL BAHRAIN APART FROM OTHER DEVELOPMENTAL PROJECTS IN BAHRAIN? I have been with Durrat Al Bahrain for almost 18 years. It might be the first resort in Bahrain that still maintains its elegance and quality. This costs us a lot, but we insist that it remains to the same degree and even better. Many aspects make the resort special, including serenity, tranquility, and a cohesive, elite community. In Durrat, everyone practices their hobbies like walking, riding a bike, driving golf carts, or playing in the playgrounds. durratbahrain.com
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BOOK REVIEW
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December 2023
GOLDEN OPULENCE Although the very idea of luxury might seem to be a modern concept developed over the last decades only, the history of luxury is as old as the history of humanity. The earliest human societies were not merely content to meet their physical needs. Many ornaments crafted thousands of years ago provide evidence of the pleasure human beings took in possessing special objects.
The beauty of unique “turqueries,” the splendor of the Topkapı Palace, the magnificience of delicate decorative arts… Whoever speaks of five centuries of luxury cannot fail to feel the power of such a heritage, which makes everything bigger and grander, drawing new forms and combinations from each motif. Even in the twenty-first century, this heritage continues to inspire, enthrall and summon up dreams. And celebrating five hundred years of luxuriant style means immersing ourselves in history and basking in a way of life that is one of a kind-it means finding in the past the inspirations that give the present its brilliance. Developed in partnership with the Turkish
luxury-fashion leader Beymen for its fiftieth anniversary, this volume has been imagined as a timely counterpart to the brand’s Golden Opulence exhibition at the Tophane-i Amire Culture and Art Center in Istanbul. A true ode to the art of living, the book features fashion pieces designed for the brand only and photographed exclusively by Laziz Hamani, from Alexander McQueen and Valentino to Erdem and Victoria Beckham. Golden Opulence, 500 Years of Luxuriant Style celebrates the beauty of Ottoman savoir faire, becoming along the way the ultimate reference for fashion and luxury enthusiasts. assouline.com
BOOK REVIEW
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December 2023
“Even in the twenty-first century, this
heritage continues to inspire, enthrall and summon up dreams.”
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Radiant LUXURY Damiani Group President, Guido Grassi Damiani reveals what sets the iconic brand apart, its commitment to sustainability, and how passion fuels its innovation. CAN YOU GIVE US SOME INSIGHTS INTO THE HISTORY AND LEGACY OF THE DAMIANI GROUP AND HOW IT HAS EVOLVED OVER THE YEARS?
IN THE EVER-EVOLVING WORLD OF FASHION AND LUXURY, HOW DOES DAMIANI STAY RELEVANT AND INNOVATIVE?
The company was founded by my grandfather back in 1924, so next year marks our 100th anniversary. We started in Valencia, a small village city in northwest Italy, about an hour’s drive from Milano. Despite its size, Valencia is a crucial hub for jewelry-it’s actually the most important jewelry district in the world. Many top jewelry brands source their products from there. We’ve been based there since the beginning because it’s our hometown-my father and grandfather were born there. Nowadays, even other international jewelry brands set up shop in Valencia because of its significant know-how. Initially, we started as a small laboratory, with my grandfather designing and producing everything. When my father took over, he began branding the company. Now, in the third generation, we’ve expanded internationally with around 90 stores worldwide. We not only have Damiani but also other brands, a multi-brand retail chain, and even a glass company producing high-quality chandeliers and blown glass vases in Venice, Murano.
Our driving force is passion. While money is undoubtedly important, for us, it’s about pride and tradition. We compete with huge groups not just for financial gain but because of our passion.
WHAT MAKES DAMIANI STAND OUT FROM OTHER LUXURY JEWELRY BRANDS? I believe the significant difference lies in our situation-we’re a family-owned company founded by my grandfather and passed down through generations. We’re genuinely Italian, and unlike many other big international brands that were sold to French conglomerates, we remain independent. This familial touch is reflected in our collections, the quality of raw materials, and our commitment. It’s not just business for us. We’re looking towards the next generation.
December 2023
01 MIMOSA White gold and diamond earrings 02 MIMOSA White gold and diamonds bracelet 03 Damiani Group President, Guido Grassi Damiani
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CAN YOU HIGHLIGHT ANY RECENT COLLABORATIONS OR PARTNERSHIPS THAT HAVE BEEN SIGNIFICANT FOR THE DAMIANI GROUP? Collaborations often involve celebrities. For example, we’ve worked with Sophia Loren and Brad Pitt in the past. We’ve also collaborated on charity projects, like developing a water wheel in Africa with Sharon Stone to provide fresh water to communities in need.
DAMIANI HAS A RICH HISTORY OF CRAFTING ICONIC PIECES. COULD YOU SHARE A FEW MEMORABLE MOMENTS OR PIECES THAT HOLD A SPECIAL PLACE IN THE COMPANY’S HISTORY? One memorable moment was winning the first Diamond International award, and it holds a special place because the winning piece was designed by my mother. It’s a testament to our company’s design prowess and family involvement.
CAN YOU SHARE SOME INSIGHTS INTO DAMIANI’S SUSTAINABLE PRACTICES AND INITIATIVES? Sustainability, for us goes beyond just a green economy. It involves working together, respecting diversity, and giving back to the community. We
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“Our goal is to keep
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have a strong focus on charity, believing that when you’re fortunate, it’s essential to contribute positively to the community.
WHAT IS YOUR VISION FOR THE FUTURE OF DAMIANI, AND WHAT PLANS DO YOU HAVE IN PLACE? Our goal is to keep growing and competing with international brands. We aim to secure a prominent position in the global market and remain one of the leading international brands.
LASTLY, WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE TO ASPIRING JEWELRY DESIGNERS OR INDIVIDUALS LOOKING TO ENTER THE LUXURY GOODS INDUSTRY? I’d suggest remembering that jewelry is timeless. Being creative is essential, but balance is key. Designs should be unique but not too extravagant, ensuring they stand the test of time and can be cherished for generations.
IS THERE ANYTHING ELSE YOU WOULD LIKE TO ADD OR SHARE WITH OUR READERS? We invite readers to connect with Damiani. While we may be a new brand in this part of the world, we’re well appreciated globally. Plus, next year marks our 100th anniversary, so we encourage everyone to celebrate with us by exploring our pieces. damiani.com
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04 BELLE ÉPOQUE REEL (From left to right) pink gold and diamonds ring, white gold ring, pink gold and diamonds ring, and yellow gold ring
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05 BELLE ÉPOQUE REEL (From left to right) pink gold bracelet and white gold and diamonds bracelet 06 BELLE ÉPOQUE REEL (from left to right) pink gold and diamonds necklace, pink gold and diamonds necklace, and yellow gold necklace
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07 MARGHERITA earrings with precious daisies in white and yellow gold and brilliant-cut diamonds of 5.79 carats. Between the petals shines the intense green of emeralds 08 MARGHERITA necklace with precious daisies in white and yellow gold and brilliant-cut diamonds of 30.91 carats. Between the petals shines the intense green of emeralds 09 MIMOSA white gold and diamond necklace.
The Lincoln Corsair Intelligently designed for active luxury.
Jeweled Led Headlamps
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A Masterpiece
December 2023
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in Fusion Hublot’s Regional Director of Latin America, Middle East & Africa, David Tedeschi uncovers the vision, artistry, and disruptive elegance behind the limitededition timepieces made in collaboration with Ahmed Seddiqi & Sons and calligraphy artist, Wissam Shawkat.
CAN YOU TELL US ABOUT THE COLLABORATION BETWEEN HUBLOT, AHMED SEDDIQI, AND THE AWARDWINNING CALLIGRAPHY ARTIST WISSAM SHAWKAT FOR THE CREATION OF THESE SPECIAL EDITION TIMEPIECES?
COULD YOU ELABORATE ON THE CHOICE OF THE CALLIGRAPHY ARTIST WISSAM SHAWKAT AND HOW HIS EXPERTISE ALIGNS WITH HUBLOT’S COMMITMENT TO INNOVATION AND ARTISTIC EXPRESSION?
The connection between Wissam and Seddiqi dates back quite a while, and we’ve been collaborating with Wissam for regional visual merchandising, especially during Ramadan. We wanted to deepen our partnership with him by working together on a watch. The idea originated from Mohammed Abdul Magied Seddiqi, who envisioned a fusion between Hublot and the local culture through calligraphy on the dial. The result is a striking all-black watch with multicolored shiny calligraphy in the center, creating a disruptive yet focused aesthetic. We’ve launched two limited editions, one for men and one for women, with differences in size – 42 millimeters for men and 38 millimeters for women. The women’s edition also features a black diamond bezel, adding a touch of elegance.
Wissam is an award-winning artist, and we believe in his exceptional talent. Art has always been crucial to Hublot, and we’ve collaborated with many international artists. However, this time, we wanted a local touch from the Middle East, which is why we chose to work with him.
WHAT DO YOU HOPE WEARERS OF THESE TIMEPIECES WILL EXPERIENCE OR FEEL WHEN THEY WEAR THESE UNIQUE PIECES? Our watches are meant to be truly unique, offering something distinct from other brands. Hublot has always been about being different and unique. Through this partnership with Wissam, we aimed for something completely different and disruptive. We believe our local clientele will truly appreciate these distinctive additions.
DURING JEWELLERY ARABIA, HOW DOES HUBLOT CAPTIVATE THE AUDIENCE THERE? We launch our newest collection twice a year and take advantage of events like Jewellery Arabia to showcase our novelties. This year, we presented almost all the novelties launched at Watches and Wonders. It was a great success, with a significant turnout and positive reception. The exhibition’s first day was successful and subsequent days were even better.
IS THERE ANYTHING ELSE YOU WOULD LIKE TO ADD OR SHARE WITH OUR READERS? The Middle East is a vital market for us. About a year and a half ago, we reopened a new boutique with our updated concept in Moda Mall in Bahrain. We aim to maintain our strong presence in the Bahrain market, which, despite being mature, still offers opportunities for development. hublot.com
01 Hublot’s Regional Director - Latin America & Caribbean, Middle East & Africa, David Tedeschi 02 Hublot Classic Fusion Black Magic Dubai Week, 42mm
“Our watches are meant to be truly
unique, offering something distinct from other brands.”
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01 Vacheron Constantin Regional Director - Middle East, India and Africa, Christophe Ramel 02 Overseas Moon Phase Retrograde Date watch
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December 2023
“We draw inspiration from our heritage to build for the future.”
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03 Overseas Self-winding watch 04 Traditionnelle Tourbillon
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WATCHMAKING
MASTERY
Vacheron Constantin Regional Director - Middle East, India and Africa, Christophe Ramel highlights the brand’s unique haute horlogerie experiences and its commitment to blending heritage with modernity. COULD YOU TELL US MORE ABOUT VACHERON CONSTANTIN’S PARTICIPATION IN THE 31ST EDITION OF JEWELLERY ARABIA IN BAHRAIN? We’ve been committed to Jewellery Arabia for over a decade now, and this year, we’ve created our largest booth ever. The aim was to offer a more immersive experience for clients, showcasing haute horlogerie and Vacheron Constantin. We set up 2 VIP rooms for clients to try on pieces and have special educational moments with our watchmakers.
IN YOUR OPINION, WHAT MAKES VACHERON CONSTANTIN’S TIMEPIECES STAND OUT AT A PRESTIGIOUS EVENT LIKE JEWELLERY ARABIA? Well, besides showcasing our latest novelties, we want to be recognized not just for beautiful timepieces, but also for the overall experience we provide. This year, we’ve highlighted enameling, one of the decorative crafts we’ve mastered since our inception in 1755.
HOW DOES THE BRAND FIND THE RIGHT BALANCE BETWEEN PRESERVING HERITAGE AND EMBRACING MODERNITY IN ITS TIMEPIECES? 04
It’s a good question and a crucial aspect for
Vacheron Constantin. We draw inspiration from our heritage to build for the future. This year, we’re reintroducing a complication that’s been dear to us for a century – the retrograde display, combining a classic case with a modern design treatment.
VACHERON CONSTANTIN HAS ALWAYS BEEN KNOWN FOR ITS ELEGANCE AND PRECISION. HOW DOES THE BRAND ENSURE THAT ITS LATEST NOVELTIES, LIKE THE TRADITIONELLE TOURBILLON, CONTINUE TO UPHOLD THESE VALUES? Elegance and precision are non-negotiable values for us. Each novelty has to stay true to Vacheron Constantin’s legacy. Take the Traditionelle Tourbillon in platinum, for example. A high complication, automatic, and thinner for a Tourbillon timepiece, always with a twist on design.
IS THERE ANYTHING YOU WOULD LIKE TO ADD? Yes, an important development this year is the new Overseas Self-winding, available in various versions, including a steel non-diamond set version and in pink gold. It caters to both men and women, with a smaller diameter case that some collectors prefer. vacheron-constantin.com
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December 2023
Crafting Luxury Excellence Durrah explores the rich history, bold innovation, and future vision of Montegrappa pens, renowned for their exquisite craftsmanship and cultural resonance with CEO, Giuseppe Aquila. CAN YOU TELL US ABOUT THE HISTORY AND FOUNDING PRINCIPLES OF MONTEGRAPPA PENS?
HOW DOES MONTEGRAPPA ENSURE THE HIGHEST QUALITY CRAFTSMANSHIP IN ITS PEN MANUFACTURING PROCESS?
Our company’s roots trace back to 1912, when Italy’s first nib factory opened in the same premises we still occupy today. In 1915 the company began making pens, which started to take on the Montegrappa name in 1928. At the time, reservoir pens were the cutting-edge technology of the day, but the company’s founders soon recognized the need to stand apart. The 1930s are often referred to as fountain pens’ golden age, and early Montegrappa pens were innovative and ornate as well as functional. Many of the ideas seeded in the 1920s and 1930s continue to live on in our Classic and Vintage Class product families.
It’s all about people and the standards they hold themselves to. In Veneto, we are fortunate to be part of one of the world’s greatest cradles of artisanal industry, and people here feel a tremendous sense of competitiveness and pride. The last five years have seen unprecedented investment in new tooling and machinery, and it has been immensely gratifying to see the way they embrace new technology and use it to realize ideas previously beyond reach. We encourage experimentation, but everyone is aware that perfecting new ideas requires hundreds of hours of testing and refinement.
WHAT SETS MONTEGRAPPA PENS APART FROM OTHER LUXURY PEN BRANDS IN THE MARKET? our boldness. Montegrappa is a brand that always defaults to a position more daring and flamboyant than the norm. Originally, it was our use of color that helped us expand our distribution, which then evolved through our use of sculpting and precious materials. Over the last decade, our explorations of advanced materials and mechanical innovations have continued this thread of inventiveness. I’m afraid it’s something of a habit, but we simply don’t tolerate products that feel anonymous and insubstantial. Maintaining our artisanal principles and processes is a big part of that.
WHAT INSPIRED YOU PERSONALLY TO JOIN MONTEGRAPPA AS CEO? Montegrappa has always been part of my life. When my family purchased the company in 1981, we had already been one of its largest customers for some time. Today we send our products all over the world and, although my title says CEO, we remain an independent, family-run enterprise. Most of my time is dedicated to ensuring our products continue to exceed expectations, both in terms of their creative and artisanal ambition as well as the people and processes we invest in.
MONTEGRAPPA HAS BEEN IN OPERATION FOR OVER A CENTURY. HOW HAS THE BRAND EVOLVED AND ADAPTED TO
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01 Montegrappa’s CEO, Giuseppe Aquila
“Montegrappa has always been part of my life.”
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December 2023
03 Dante Alighieri: Purgatorio 04 Dante Alighieri: Inferno
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CHANGING CUSTOMER PREFERENCES OVER THE YEARS? Even though the changes over our company’s lifetime have been immense, in a strange way Montegrappa’s evolution has completed a full circle – at least in terms of our ability to satisfy luxury customers. Today, our ability to craft custom and fully bespoke products is greater than at any stage in our history, amplified by technology that allows us to provide first-class service to any customer anywhere. At the same time, growing appreciation for wristwatches reminded us to emphasize the mechanical properties of writing instruments, as well as embrace materials, techniques and finishes outside the classical penmaker’s skillset.
MONTEGRAPPA HAS COLLABORATED WITH VARIOUS RENOWNED PERSONALITIES AND BRANDS. CAN YOU SHARE ANY EXCITING COLLABORATIONS OR PARTNERSHIPS THAT ARE CURRENTLY IN THE WORKS?
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We have a fabulous collaboration coming up with one of Italy’s most celebrated chefs, who has been working with us to innovate the QUATTRO – our newest flagship silhouette. Besides that, fans of our work with James Bond, Harry Potter and Ernest Hemingway’s estate can look forward to new releases over the next couple of quarters.
MONTEGRAPPA PENS ARE KNOWN FOR THEIR EXQUISITE DESIGNS. WHAT IS THE PROCESS BEHIND CREATING NEW COLLECTIONS, AND HOW DO YOU ENSURE THEY RESONATE WITH CUSTOMERS? The answer varies from collection to collection but generally it comes down to choosing subjects that reflect our culture and then finding interpretations that play to our artisanal strengths. Our most loyal customers tend to look for points of craft that reinforce our savoir faire. For this reason, precious metals and intricate castings are recurring features that connoisseurs appreciate as much for their
execution as for their symbolism. Lately, we have been seeing similar levels of interest in our mechanical sophistication. As features expand the functional scope of writing instruments, it’s only natural that aficionados want to be associated with them.
WHAT IS YOUR VISION FOR THE FUTURE OF MONTEGRAPPA, AND WHAT INITIATIVES OR INNOVATIONS CAN WE EXPECT TO SEE IN THE COMING YEARS? We have been working and investing tirelessly over the last few years to not only advance our own position, but to also keep the category vital and exciting. In the coming years we need to maintain the pace of development, but become better at bringing it to wider attention. There are still many pockets of the market that are yet to discover the pleasure of writing instrument ownership. It’s an exciting prospect. montegrappa.com
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December 2023
Exceptional
EXPERIENCES Durrah explores the culinary vision of Ritz-Carlton Bahrain with Director of Food and Beverage, William Fily and Executive Chef, Joergen Sodemann.
of beverages. We will continue to provide the legendary Ritz-Carlton service that the property is actually known for. Our goal is to surprise and delight with creative menus, unique dining experiences, and collaborations with renowned personalities. By staying ahead of the curve, our focus is to consistently provide fresh and exciting new offers to our esteemed guests.
CAN YOU SHARE WITH US SOME OF THE CREATIVE PROCESSES THAT GO INTO CREATING YOUR GUEST EXPERIENCE? WF: Here Here at The Ritz-Carlton, our
INTERVIEW WITH DIRECTOR OF FOOD AND BEVERAGE, WILLIAM FILY LOOKING ONTO THE NEW CHAPTER OF THE RITZ CARLTON BAHRAIN’S F&B, WHAT WILL BE THE MAIN FOCUS? WF: Our aim is to provide our guests with extraordinary culinary experiences, exceptional service, innovative concepts, a blend of local and international flavors, and an exquisite selection
creative process includes understanding our guests’ needs, developing innovative concepts, mapping an authentic guest journey and identifying touchpoints where our team’s creativity can be infused, culinary innovation, collaboration between the kitchen and service team, and last but definitely not the least, is to have the commitment to continuous improvement. The industry is constantly evolving, and by embracing a mindset of continuous improvement and innovation, we adapt and eventually exceed our guests’ expectations.
WHAT TYPE OF CULTURE DO YOU WISH TO IMPLEMENT? WF: The Ritz-Carlton culture is already the best. We live what we believe, and I think it is very important to bring this to life. I joined the property to elevate the experience of not only our guests but also our Ladies and Gentlemen. I am here to support our team in their career growth and at the same time, push the boundaries of the
guests’ experience. I would also want to instill a culture of excellence where attention to detail is paramount. This involves cultivating a mindset of meticulousness and a commitment to delivering the highest possible standards in every aspect. Lastly, by ensuring that we maintain anticipatory service, I believe we can win more recognition and awards.
WHAT DO YOU HOPE TO BRING TO BAHRAIN’S F&B SCENE? WF: My goal is to elevate Bahrain’s food and beverage scene by offering world-class dining experience and creating lively, vibrant parties. By providing the best cuisine, crafted with care and creativity by our dedicated chefs, we will deliver a memorable dining experience that exceeds expectations. Additionally, through the organization of vibrant parties and events, I aspire to cultivate an atmosphere of excitement and celebration, bringing people together to enjoy exceptional food, music, and entertainment.
WHAT ARE SOME OF THE TRENDS YOU SEE IMPACTING THE F&B SECTOR IN THE HOSPITALITY INDUSTRY? WF: Social media definitely plays a big role these days. I have seen a significant demand for Instagram-worthy cocktails and desserts. On social media, the look is more important than the taste. Our guests are also more conscious so the emphasis on healthier eating habits and sustainability is becoming a trend. Technology also plays a crucial role in the industry. Advancements in automation and artificial intelligence are things that we have to look into as well.
“Our goal is to surprise and delight with creative
menus, unique dining experiences, and collaborations with renowned personalities.”
UP CLOSE & PERSONAL
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December 2023
“My belief centers around the idea that less is more, prioritizing quality over quantity.”
in sourcing the finest available produce, with a strong emphasis on creating an immersive and unforgettable dining experience for our guests. My belief centers around the idea that less is more, prioritizing quality over quantity.
WHAT FACTORS INFORM YOUR CHOICES IN DESIGNING THE MENU AT THE RITZCARLTON BAHRAIN? JS: Our menus are actually influenced by a variety of factors which include the availability and quality of ingredients, seasonality, guests’ preferences and dietary needs, culinary trends and influences, cultural traditions, the restaurant’s overall concept and theme, and the chef de cuisine’s own creativity, expertise, vision, and history.
WHAT DO YOU THINK PEOPLE ARE LOOKING FOR IN A DINING EXPERIENCE IN THE RITZ-CARLTON BAHRAIN? JS: Our Our guests’ expectations continuously
INTERVIEW WITH EXECUTIVE CHEF, JOERGEN SODEMANN CAN YOU DESCRIBE YOUR CULINARY PHILOSOPHY? JS: The core of my culinary philosophy lies
evolve and nowadays they don’t just seek culinary excellence but also a combination of luxury and exceptional service. They look for memorable experiences that go beyond just the food. They are also conscious about sustainability and expect a menu that showcases high quality ingredients, creative and innovative dishes, and a variety of options that cater to different tastes and dietary preferences. I believe our guests seek a dining experience that surpasses their expectations and
leaves a lasting impression. I am proud to say that The Ritz-Carlton, Bahrain offers a variety of award-winning restaurants and lounges that provide all these.
WHAT WOULD YOU SAY IS YOUR SIGNATURE DISH? JS: Passion I can’t really stick to a specific dish being around in the kitchen for over 32 years in different continents, but I must say that I love doing barbecues. My expertise and dedication in this type of cooking allows me to craft a wide variety of delectable dishes on the grill. I take pride in experimenting with different techniques, seasonings and flavor profiles to bring out the best and utterly satisfying flavors in every barbecue dish that I make.
WHAT ARE THE QUALITIES YOU BELIEVE ONE NEEDS TO BECOME A SUCCESSFUL CHEF? JS: Passion and patience. These qualities provide the fuel and mindset needed to overcome challenges, innovate, and consistently deliver outstanding culinary experiences. Passion and patience also allow an individual to continually refine their skills and strive for excellence. Chefs must understand that mastery is a lifelong journey. marriott.com
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December 2023
A DESERT OASIS Raffles Hotels & Resorts proudly introduces its latest jewel in Bahrain, the Raffles Al Areen Palace. This sophisticated desert oasis, consisting of 78 private villas and a hidden garden, marks the Kingdom’s inaugural ultra-luxurious all-villa retreat.
At Raffles Al Areen Palace Bahrain, renowned service converges with the essence of Arabian hospitality. As the Kingdom’s exclusive all-villa property, this enchanting palace resort promises an intimate experience, featuring private villas, culinary havens, rejuvenating spaces, and meticulously curated lush gardens. The restaurants and communal areas showcase striking art collaborations with local artists, celebrating the vibrant hues and captivating shapes of Arabic art and architecture. In collaboration with GFH Financial Group, the ‘palace of the secret garden’ seamlessly combines spaciousness with intimacy. Each of the 78 elegantly landscaped private pool villas, ranging from one to three bedrooms, offers 400 square meters or more of space. Visitors can escape the modern world’s hustle and bustle, indulging in temperature-controlled private pools for year-round comfort. Raffles’ legendary butler service ensures guests experience anticipatory and personalized care. At the core of Raffles Bahrain lies a commitment to well-being and reconnecting with nature. A secret garden, nurtured by a palace botanist, invites guests to participate in exclusive workshops, from organic gardening to tree planting, date picking, and healing herbs. Wellbeing villas are also available for those seeking secluded wellness experiences. Raffles Bahrain emerges as a culinary destination with the all-day Mediterranean restaurant Palma, featuring locally inspired fusion dishes and collaborations with internationally
renowned chefs. Pastry Chef Yazid Ichemrahen, renowned for his artistic creations at Ycone Paris, brings his exquisite sweet treats to Raffles Bahrain. In-villa dining options with curated menus and the option for a private chef elevate the experience, providing unparalleled privacy and comfort. Setting a new standard for events, the palace offers sophisticated indoor and outdoor spaces for celebrations of all sizes and styles. The spectacular secret gardens are designed for everything from hidden romantic dinners to fairytale weddings. Raffles Bahrain is the perfect destination for weddings, offering carefully curated menus and diverse locations for every occasion. Situated on the Island of a Million Palm Trees, Raffles Al Areen Bahrain invites guests to explore an undiscovered part of the Middle East, close to the wildlife reserve housing exotic animals, rare birds, and desert plants. Its prime location caters to leisure and business travelers, proximity to major venues like Exhibition World Bahrain, Bahrain International F1 Circuit, Lost Paradise of Dilmun Waterpark, and Al Dana amphitheater. With a legacy dating back to 1887, Raffles has established itself as an iconic brand known for refined welcomes, authentic traditions, and gracious personalized service. Across its collection of 20 elegant addresses in landmark international cities and resorts, Raffles promises a unique experience where visitors arrive as guests, leave as friends, and return as family. raffles.com/bahrain
SPECIAL FEATURE
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December 2023
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SPECIAL FEATURE
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December 2022
Setting NEW STANDARDS In 2023, the World Arabian Horse Championship took place in Qatar, marking the first time in 42-years that this leading global event has been held outside of France. Widely regarded as the pinnacle of Arabian Horse shows and competitions, the annual event brought together more than 100 horses from over 20 countries alongside around 2,000 attendees. The success of hosting such a renowned event was a springboard, setting the stage for Qatar to become a key player in the world of Arabian Horse competitions. During the event, the launch of the Global Champions Arabians Tour (GCAT) was announced. Established with a vision to revolutionize Arabian Horse sport, GCAT’s debut season will begin in 2024. The GCAT is set to touch down in seven destinations across Europe and the Middle East, taking the Arabian Horse sport to new heights and into the center of cities where it hasn’t been before. From the vibrant energy of Doha, Qatar, to the historic marvels of Rome, Italy, each destination will become a canvas for showcasing equine beauty. One of the defining features of GCAT is its commitment to recognizing excellence with the
highest prize money ever offered in Arabian Horse sport. The debut season will boast a €17 million prize, setting a new standard for the equestrian community. This will not only attract leading competitors, it will also signal GCAT’s dedication to rewarding the best in the field. Representing a milestone in the world of equestrian sports, the tour is designed to be inclusive, embracing a global audience through live events – making the beauty of Arabian horsemanship accessible to anyone, anywhere. Breaking new ground, GCAT will introduce a revolutionary format that challenges the conventional norms of Arabian Horse competitions. The tour’s commitment to excellence, integrity, and prestige are the guiding principles, ensuring a transformative experience for both participants and spectators. With a focus
on transparency, fairness, and ethical treatment of all involved, GCAT aims to set a new benchmark for the sport. The unforgettable events will showcase the most extraordinary horses, contributing to the tour’s promise of being the most prestigious and dynamic Arabian Horse series. As the tour unfolds, it aims to showcase the enduring of Arabian Horses and their impact on modern horse breeds. As the equestrian world eagerly awaits the inaugural season of GCAT, the launch of this tour will signal a paradigm shift in Arabian Horse sport. With its innovative format, huge prize money, and a commitment to connecting cultures through shared passion, GCAT promises to be a transformative experience. gcarabianstour.com
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SPECIAL FEATURE
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December 2022
JEWELLERY
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December 2023
TIFFANY’S New Jewel Tiffany & Co. announced the fall expression of Blue Book 2023: Out of the Blue. A continuation of Nathalie Verdeille’s first Blue Book collection for Tiffany & Co., the House’s Chief Artistic Officer of Jewelry and High Jewelry pays homage to Jean Schlumberger’s marine-inspired masterworks and explores his fantastical perspective of the sea.
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Tiffany & Co. will expand on five of the collection’s existing themes-Shell, Coral, Pisces, Star Urchin, and Starfish-and reimagine Schlumberger’s vision in a new theme: Sea Anemone. With geometric and stylized aesthetics, each masterpiece perpetuates and reinvents Schlumberger’s enigmatic symbols of the sea. Often described as the flower of the sea, the Sea Anemone theme honors the dexterity of this creature’s forms. This new addition to the Blue Book 2023: Out of the Blue collection features highly innovative design mechanisms such as a bracelet containing diamonds, blue cuprian elbaite tourmalines, and turquoise set en tremblant, lending a sense of subtle motion and movement. Other
creations are designed with an inverted setting consisting of diamonds with their culets facing out, lending a spiky texture and magnifying the Sea Anemone theme. Additional notable creations from the fall launch include: a Shell necklace featuring diamonds and a striking blue cuprian elbaite tourmaline of over 10 carats; a Pisces necklace with an unenhanced orange sapphire of over 23 carats; a Coral necklace with unenhanced purple sapphires of over 37 total carats and diamonds; and a Starfish pendant with diamonds and an unenhanced green cuprian elbaite tourmaline of over 22 carats. tiffany.com 02
01, 02, 03, 04 Each masterpiece reinvents enigmatic symbols of the sea 05, 06, 07 The Sea Anemone theme
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“Often described as the flower of the
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sea, the Sea Anemone theme honors the dexterity of this creature’s forms.”
JEWELLERY
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December 2023
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01 Close-up of the Paraiba tourmaline 02 The Blue Lagoon 03 Exquisite craftsmanship
“A natural tourmaline of such size and quality is exceedingly rare.” 02
Treasure of NATURE
The largest top-quality Paraiba tourmaline ever to come to auction, the 93.94 carats Treasure of Nature is at the heart of a bespoke necklace estimated at $1.4-2.7 million. It is one of the star highlights of Sotheby’s magnificent jewels sale in Geneva.
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This November, Sotheby’s will offer a unique masterpiece of high jewellery: a stunning necklace by Adler Joailliers, conceived and created expressly for ‘The Blue Lagoon’, the largest, top-quality Paraiba tourmaline ever to be offered at auction. At an outstanding 93.94 cts, this treasure of nature dazzles at the heart of the bespoke necklace to be offered as a star lot in the Magnificent Jewels and Noble Jewels sale in Geneva on 8 November (estimate 1.3 – 2.5 million CHF / 1.4-2.7 million USD). The auction is part of Sotheby’s Luxury Week, a twice-yearly seasonal series staged in Hong Kong, New York and Geneva, offering the most extraordinary lots across jewellery, watches, handbags, accessories, and more. First discovered in Brazil in the 1980’s, Paraiba tourmalines have become one of the most highly sought-after gemstones in the world, frequently commanding prices that far surpass those paid for fine sapphires, rubies, and emeralds. Topquality Paraiba tourmalines are distinguished by an extraordinary electric blue hue, but specimens possessing this distinctive color are typically small and possess a significant degree of internal imperfections. Here, the ‘The Blue Lagoon’, stands alone. Its impressive size, superlative clarity, and enchanting turquoise color, all achieved without the aid of heat treatment, bring to mind the crystalline waters of a tropical paradise. To amplify the stones’ evocative nature, Adler has meticulously crafted a waterfall of shimmering round, marquise- and pear-shaped diamonds
sophisticated in their simplicity, or what the family-owned firm calls “classic with a twist.” ‘The Blue Lagoon’ necklace epitomizes Adler’s signature high jewellery, a mix of exquisite craftsmanship and purity of style. The Paraiba tourmaline is accompanied by a Bellerophon report brochure and a SSEF report, the latter with an appendix attesting to its exceptional size and quality. The necklace is additionally offered with the original sketch by Adler for its design and GIA reports for a selection of the diamonds. A natural tourmaline of such size and quality is exceedingly rare. This magnificent tourmaline, hailing from Mozambique, exhibits natural clarity and color without heat modification. Cuprian (copper-bearing) tourmalines were first sourced in Brazil; the term “Paraiba” comes from the name of the area where the vividly colored tourmalines were first mined. More recently, Mozambique has emerged as the world’s most productive country for Cuprian tourmalines, including the “Paraiba” varieties, a term now applied exclusively to the greenish-blue specimens of vivid to deep saturation, regardless of where they are mined. Over the past two decades, Mozambique has emerged as one of the leading sources for topquality colored stones. On June 8, 2023, Sotheby’s New York sold the Estrela de FURA ruby for an astonishing USD 34.8 million. Weighing 55.22 carats, the stone presently holds the world record price for any ruby sold at auction. adler.ch
JEWELLERY
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December 2023
01 Catene necklace in rose gold with diamonds by Pomellato 02 Catene earrings in white gold with white diamonds by Pomellato 03 Catene rings by Pomellato 04 Catene bracelets in rose gold with white diamonds by Pomellato
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“Working towards a more eco-conscious future, Pomellato has now achieved 100% responsible gold purchasing.” 01
Chain Reaction with A Milanese Twist 03
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Over the past five decades, Pomellato has confirmed its mastery of chains, creating designs based on the simple link that are jewels in their own right that always reference the firm’s history. Today, the Gourmette chain from 1967 is at the heart of the Catene collection. The sculptural links form sensuous chains that fall perfectly on the skin, every piece meticulously formed to gently settle against the next. Swathed in diamonds or set with a pavé of vibrant colored gemstones, Catene is the epitome of understated Milanese glamour. Brera is a brand new, lighter, and minimal interpretation of the Gourmette chain, yet it maintains the pleasingly rounded profile and iconic shape of the original Gourmette links. It speaks to a younger generation with whisper-light forms in easy-to-wear jewels. In tune with the world of fashion, Brera offers options for stacking and can be worn in multiple ways. Playing with convention, the symmetry of the classic pattern of links gives way to a freer and more expressive interpretation of this jewellery staple. The simplicity of the Iconica bracelets is a testament to the expertise of Pomellato’s goldsmiths. Smooth, seamless gold links encircle the wrist, with the clasp effortlessly integrated into the design. An elegant balance of refined design, superb craftsmanship, and luxuriously opulent materials, bold volumes or minimal but generously proportioned, the Iconica is a stylish evolution of the simple link, but with a contemporary soul. A glimpse of an Iconica bracelet under the cuff of a sharply tailored women’s blazer is the essence of effortless Milan chic.
The brilliance of colored gemstones adds joy to the Nudo sautoir necklace. A musical composition of precious gems, liquid-smooth links, and large, double loops, the Nudo sautoir can be worn long, as a lariat, or wrapped twice around the neck. Three brand new statement rings in a luxuriously generous size join the Catene range, one of Pomellato’s signature designs that directly links back to the house’s rich heritage of chain making. The new rings are based on the famously voluptuous ‘gourmette’ links that are re-imagined into sumptuous, silky-smooth rings. Bigger in size than the previous Catene rings, articulated links connect to a solid shank, allowing the links to gently move on the finger. The flowing rhythm of the links gives strength and presence to each ring, making them ideal to wear as a single statement or confidently mixed and matched with other Catene rings to create a unique look. The rings are available in rose gold, rose gold set with white diamonds, or white gold set with white diamonds. With the arrival of the new Catene rings, Pomellato proves that the archetypal chain, with its unparalleled versatility, is still a source of inspiration for fresh new designs. pomellato.com
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December 2023
01 Intricate designs 02 Armillary Tourbillon Tribute to Art Deco
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Discovering the World’s Wonders
As early as the mid19-th century, Vacheron Constantin felt a need to explore Asian countries and establish commercial contacts from its historical base in Geneva. This is reflected in the new Les Cabinotiers – Récits de Voyages range, which includes two Les Cabinotiers Minute Repeater Tourbillon watches and four Les Cabinotiers – Memorable places watches, whose hand-engraved dials are inspired by period illustrations of famous architectural sites in the Far East and Geneva and equipped with in-house Calibre 1120.
The two single-piece edition Les Cabinotiers Minute Repeater Tourbillon – Tribute to arabesque and Tribute to Art Deco style watches celebrate Vacheron Constantin’s spirit of openness to the world in its new Récits de Voyages collection. Both bear the Hallmark of Geneva and are powered by inhouse Calibre 2755 TMR with tourbillon and minute repeater, featuring the power-reserve indication visible through the sapphire caseback. This movement has benefited from developments made for the Tour de l’Île, an ultra-complicated timepiece celebrating the Maison’s 250th anniversary. In honor of the links forged with the Middle East and the United States in the early 19th century, as well as of their respective artistic cultures, the Maison has created an arabesque decoration for the former, entrusted to a master engraver; and Art Deco ornamentation for the latter, using wood marquetry complemented by gemsetting and engraving. The decorations adorning the Sheikh Zayed Mosque in Abu Dhabi and the architecture of the Chrysler Building in New York served as the
inspiration for these two exceptional 44 mm-diameter gold timepieces. The dials of Les Cabinotiers – Memorable places watches depict four historical sites using a new technique that combines engraving – and for two of them a touch of damascening. Each dial is composed of several plates cut from yellow, white and pink gold, juxtaposed to form the different colored elements of the painting, or even superimposed to give depth to this precious assemblage. Before being assembled, these plates are first engraved using micro-sculpture techniques and lineengraving incisions. The challenge for the master artisan is to work on plates that are no more than 0.4 to 0.8 mm thick, and therefore not to exceed 1 to 2/10ths of a millimeter in engraving them. It takes no less than 200 hours to create a single dial. Thanks to the precision of the engraver’s deft touch, the reliefs take shape, the depth of field is accentuated, and Nature comes to life. To give an even more realistic touch to the two
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timepieces representing the site of Angkor and the Imperial Summer Palace in Beijing, he also proceeded to damascene the tree’s foliage. This decorative technique involves embedding a metal wire in an engraved surface, meaning either pink or yellow gold encrusted into a white gold base. Given the dial dimensions, it is a task requiring supremely meticulous care, especially as the gold inlays are only slightly softer than white gold. Each composition is framed by a 40 mm-diameter case in 18K 5N pink gold, surrounded by a slim, engraved circular ring highlighting the extraordinary craftsmanship of these pieces. Vacheron Constantin’s vocation has always been to perfect the art of watchmaking in Geneva while remaining open to the world. The founder’s grandson Jacques-Barthélémi Vacheron (1787-1864) was the first to criss-cross the roads of France and Italy, followed by his partner François Constantin (1788-1854), a tireless traveller who oversaw the commercial development of the Maison. He established commercial relations with Central 04 05
03 Minute Repeater Tourbillon Tribute to Art Deco 04 Expert craftsmanship 05 Minute Repeater Tourbillon Tribute to Arabesque
Europe, South America, Scandinavia and Asia, during a period in time when Vacheron Constantin was also gaining a foothold in the United States and China, as well as in Brazil, Hong Kong and Cuba. François Vacheron’s correspondence stretching over a quarter of a century paints the portrait of a Manufacture that was open to a Europe undergoing major restructuring in the aftermath of the Napoleonic Wars and the Congress of Vienna. This scope and reach continued to expand as the Vacheron Constantin name crossed borders and conquered new markets. Since that time, the very notion of travel has been inherent to the values of the Maison, an integral part of the human adventure characterizing its nearly 270-year history. Following in its founders’ footsteps, the Maison offers these Récits de Voyages series as a watchmaking odyssey through the world and its wonders, applying craftsmanship and mechanical art as its means of expression. vacheron-constantin.com
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December 2023
SPRINTING Towards Success Swiss luxury watchmaker TAG Heuer introduces the TAG Heuer Carrera Chronograph, drawing inspiration from the timeless link between cars, drivers, and motor racing.
This exceptional timepiece captures the essence of legendary drivers, symbolizing their relentless pursuit of excellence on the racetrack and encouraging wearers to embrace thrilling challenges with the same passion that has defined motorsport history. The TAG Heuer Carrera Chronograph is a remarkable showcase of craftsmanship. It goes beyond being a watch; it’s a testament to TAG Heuer’s commitment to creating timepieces that resonate with those who reach for the extraordinary. This narrative traces back to Jack Heuer, a visionary who introduced a game-changing concept: gifting gold timepieces to racing drivers. This ingenious gesture forged an unbreakable bond between TAG Heuer and the world of motorsports. These watches surpassed their role as rewards; they became loyal companions in the relentless pursuit of victory. Amidst the roar of engines and the thrill of speed, these timepieces graced the wrists of drivers
like Ronnie Peterson, and Niki Lauda, urging them to shatter their limits. Jack Heuer’s audacity reshaped the realm of luxury watch marketing forever. Those gold timepieces became more than timekeepers; they encapsulated the essence of accomplishment, courage, and an unwavering quest for excellence. Every tick of the chronograph echoed the pulse of a driver’s bravery, a constant reminder of their path to greatness. The TAG Heuer Carrera Chronograph 39mm pays tribute to this vintage era, exuding retro charm and timeless aesthetics that stand as a testament to the brand’s unstoppable spirit. The 18K 3N yellow gold case of the TAG Heuer Carrera Chronograph marks the splendid conclusion to the 60th anniversary saga of the Carrera collection. The pinnacle of the Carrera’s 60th anniversary celebration lies within the exquisite golden-cased TAG Heuer Carrera Chronograph, featuring the groundbreaking Glassbox design which
encompasses the watch’s overall aesthetics. When viewed in cross-section, the watch’s silhouette is fluid thanks to the seamlessly curved edges of the dome’s sapphire crystal, yet also angular due to the case’s taut flanks and muscular, avant-garde lugs. To ensure optimal legibility, the black lacquered central hand creates a striking contrast against the luxurious gold dial and its vertical brushed finish, reminiscent of the racetrack markings. The new TAG Heuer Carrera’s elegant 39mm diameter case is equipped with TAG Heuer’s in-house chronograph movement, Heuer 02, listed as TH2000. This movement features a bi-directional winding and an impressive 80-hour power reserve. The watch is accompanied by a black perforated calfskin leather strap secured with an 18K 3N yellow gold pin buckle, enhancing the timepiece’s connection to its racinginspired heritage while adding an air of exclusivity and luxury. tagheuer.com
“Every tick of the chronograph
echoed the pulse of a driver’s bravery, a constant reminder of their path to greatness.”
WATCH
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Design and Craftsmanship Hublot combines iconic design and craftsmanship with its Classic Fusion High Jewellery 2023 watch, a stunning piece of high jewellery with 431 dazzling baguette cut diamonds.
The latest addition to Hublot’s High Jewellery collection of watches is a Classic Fusion High Jewellery 42 mm in white gold set with baguettecut diamonds. It fits effortlessly into the brand’s High Jewellery collection, alongside other iconic models such as the Big Bang, the Spirit of Big Bang and the Square Bang Unico, adorned with white gold, diamonds and even rainbow-coloured gemstones. The Classic Fusion High Jewellery 42mm combines iconic design with the most remarkable gem-setting techniques. This Classic Fusion, embellished with baguette-cut diamonds and enhanced with sleek lines of white gold, has become a true Hublot icon. An exceptional accolade for a timeless watch. The highest form of sophistication is simplicity, so Hublot has chosen to go back to basics and to the very shape that epitomised its creation in 1980. The result is now one that offers an acclaimed expression of high jewellery, accentuating the timeless purity of the Classic Fusion model. What a stunning piece! Master gem-setters have brought this new Classic Fusion High Jewellery 2023 to life with no fewer
than 431 baguette-cut diamonds-around 14.6 carats in total. These gemstones adorn the watch’s case, bezel, dial and clasp. On the dial alone, it took 120 hours of painstaking, meticulous work to set the 241 baguette-cut diamonds. That’s almost three weeks of full-time work! Then came the task of setting the 60 additional diamonds around the bezel. The 42-mm case is set with 94 baguette-cut diamonds and contains the HUB1710 calibre, which is visible from the back of the watch through the sapphire glass. The self-winding movement oscillates at a frequency of 4 Hz (or 28,800 alterations per hour), offering a power reserve of no fewer than 50 hours. Of course, watchmaking of this quality must be perfect in every detail: even the black rubberlined alligator strap features a deployant buckle adorned with 36 baguette-cut diamonds. All in all, it takes over 200 hours to set all the 431 diamonds that grace this exceptional piece of high jewellery, the perfect fusion of watchmaking excellence and jewellery artisanship. hublot.com
December 2023
“An exceptional accolade for a timeless watch.”
WATCH
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WINTER Tales
A snow-covered moon is the magical setting for OMEGA’s festive season campaign, which features watches from all four collections and a cast of playful characters.
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For this year’s gift-giving season, OMEGA is sharing Winter Tales. Inspiring stories set in a frozen corner of the cosmos, all told with the help of charming characters. There are astronauts for Speedmaster, seahorses for Seamaster, stars for Constellation, and De Ville people dressed in city style. Of course, a beautiful OMEGA timepiece is central to each scene, including many of the Swiss brand’s most popular and soughtafter styles. OMEGA’s unique lunar world can now be seen in locations across the globe, from boutique windows to billboards, online and in major print publications. All wrapped up in colors of white, black and OMEGA red. As every gift buyer has their own unique story to tell, OMEGA’s Winter Tales selection offers a wide variety of styles, sizes, and watch materials. 01
omegawatches.com
December 2023
01 Seamaster Diver 300M OMEGA Co-Axial Master Chronometer 02 Speedmaster Moonwatch OMEGA Co-Axial Master Chronometer Moonphase 03 Speedmaster Co-Axial Chronograph 04 Seamaster Aqua Terra 150M OMEGA Co-Axial Master Chronometer
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01, 02, 03 The limited-edition Big Bang Tourbillon Samuel Ross
“There are astronauts for Speedmaster,
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seahorses for Seamaster, stars for Constellation, and De Ville people dressed in city style.”
WATCHES - MEN
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December 2023
HAUTE Horlogerie Durrah’s selection of luxury watches that stand the test of time.
Patek Philippe Calatrava The manufacture is expanding its range of travel watches with the new Calatrava Reference 5224R-001 featuring the Travel Time dual time zone and an original 24-hour display. The new caliber 31-260 PS FUS 24H self-winding movement is further distinguished by its patented system for correcting local time by the crown. patek.com
Audemars Piguet Black Ceramic Royal Oak Offshore Music Edition A new black ceramic reference in 37 mm, featuring a Tapisserie dial that reproduces the motifs of an equaliser (or VU meter), is joining the first five models in the collection, which are available in various materials and diameters. Driven by the selfwinding hours, minutes and seconds movement, the Caliber 5909, this timepiece celebrates the creative synergy the Manufacture enjoys with the music world. audemarspiguet.com
Rolex Oyster Perpetual Rolex brings in a new dial decoration for its Oyster Perpetual range, recognized for its pure lines and universal elegance. Named ‘Celebration’, this brand-new motif is available for the Oyster Perpetual 31, Oyster Perpetual 36 and Oyster Perpetual 41. Composed of differently sized bubbles fringed with black, it encapsulates the vivid colors of the lacquered dials introduced in 2020. rolex.com
Hublot Big Bang Tourbillon Sr_A By Samuel Ross Like living materials, Dr. Samuel Ross’s creativity and thoughts are constantly shaping, reshaping, improving, imagining and reimagining things. For his next development on the Big Bang Tourbillon SR_A by Samuel Ross, Ross has brought subtle yet insightful details. Precision, clarity and choice are integrated through SR_A’s signature industrial language. hublot.com
Chopard Alpine Eagle Contemporary, refined and assertive, the Alpine Eagle sports chic timepiece collection is a state-of-the-art reinterpretation of the St. Moritz, the first watch created in 1980 by Karl-Friedrich Scheufele, now Co-President of Chopard. Bearing testament to Chopard’s ethical approach, the Lucent Steel™ is 80% made from recycled elements. chopard.com
Montblanc Nicolas Rieussec Chronograph GCC Limited Edition Montblanc has unveiled a brand-new Star Legacy Nicolas Rieussec Chronograph limited edition of the historic model that began as a timekeeper on Paris’ famous Champs-de-Mars horse racing track in 1821. The GCC Region Chronograph, limited to just 50 pieces, includes references to countries in the GCC region, where the spirit and legacy of horse racing and fine watchmaking is equally cherished. montblanc.com
WATCHES - MEN
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Perpétuel Gallery Fiona Kruger Fracture A new rule-breaking timepiece by the acclaimed Scottish artist-designer, Fiona Krüger, this watch challenges conventions with its unique ‘cracked’ dial, revealing the complexity of the Agenhor movement beneath. Crafted by renowned manufacturer Comblémine, it’s limited to just seven pieces. perpetuel.com
Panerai Radiomir Guido Panerai & Figlio A fascinating reinterpretation of Panerai’s iconic Radiomir Guido Panerai & Figlio. Key features of this special edition watch include solid welded lugs, a sandwich dial, the Marina Militare logo, Officine Panerai inscription, goldcolour hands, small seconds at the 9-hour mark, and a domed sapphire crystal. panerai.com
Bell & Ross BR 03 Gyrocompass With the new limited-edition BR 03 Gyrocompass, Bell & Ross pays tribute to one of its favorite worlds: aeronautics. The appearance of the watch is faithful to the kind of technical design used for a pilot’s dial at the helm of an aircraft, adopting the graphic codes for what is known to professionals as a course indicator. bellross.com
December 2023
OMEGA Seamaster Diver 300M This 42 mm stainless steel and 18K Sedna™ Gold model features a dial and bezel made from black ceramic. Look out for iconic details, including the famous wave pattern and skeletonized hands. This intrepid watch is undoubtedly a classic choice – and a gift that can be treasured across land or ocean. omega-watches.com
Ulysse Nardin Diver Net Azure & Diver X Skeleton Azure The ultra-technical and powerful Diver X Skeleton Azure revolutionises the aesthetics of diving watches. With its titanium DLC case water-resistant to 200 metres, this extraordinary piece presents a dynamic skeletonised face/dial marked with an X in deep black and azure blue. The transparency of the dial and movement draws the eye deep into the heart of the mechanism. ulysse-nardin.com
Zenith Chronomaster Original with A Black Tricolor Dial Equipped with the latest generation of the El Primero high-frequency automatic chronograph caliber that features a 1/10th of a second chronograph function, the Chronomaster Original with black tricolor dial stands out as a thoroughly contemporary take on one of the most emblematic El Primero references. zenith-watches.com
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ELEGANT Timekeeping Feminine and sophisticated watches that suit your style.
December 2023
Cartier La Panthère de Cartier watch Cartier’s iconic panther fiercely magnetizes the company’s latest jewellery watch. Fierce and wild, it is a masterful addition to the repertoire of precious La Panthère collections. Embodying timeless elegance and ferocious beauty, this watch is a testament to Cartier’s enduring legacy of craftsmanship. cartier.com
Chopard L’Heure Du Diamant Oval Joaillerie L’Heure du Diamant is reinvented in a new watch with an oval case, crafted in ethical gold and adorned with a mother-of-pearl dial and marquise-cut diamonds. It features a sculpted gold bark bracelet and beats to the rhythm of the Chopard 09.01-C automatic movement. With a matching pair of earrings and a pendant crafted by Chopard’s Artisans of Emotions. chopard.com
Chaumet Le Jardin de Chaumet The High Jewellery collection, Le Jardin de Chaumet perpetuates an inspired exchange through a highly evocative and poetic promenade. Devised as four chapters, Le Jardin de Chaumet invites one to ramble through the undergrowth, walk between the flowers and out into the fields, while giving the imagination free rein to wander before bouquets from around the world. chaumet.com
Van Cleef & Arpels Perlée The Perlée collection’s signature aesthetic shines in the Perlée 23mm watch variations. Featuring a rounded silhouette with a double row of golden beads, the watches exhibit pavé-set diamonds, guilloché motherof-pearl, and guilloché rose gold on their dials, creating a contemporary fusion of time-telling jewels that glisten with captivating radiance. vancleefarpels.com
BVLGARI Divas’ Dream Peacock Precious Marquetry The peacock comes to life on the dial of an exceptional Divas’ Dream timepiece, donning spectacular finery that merges horological and jewellery craftsmanship. Drawing inspiration from the cabochon cut, a Bvlgari hallmark, a sapphire dome floats above the majestic form of this precious creature. bulgari.com
Vacheron Constantin Overseas Collection The Overseas collection, reinvented in 2016, conveys the spirit of travel. This openness to the world, inherited from François Constantin, has remained at the core of the Maison’s philosophy ever since its founding. Designed in a spirit of casual elegance and comfort enhanced by their interchangeable strap/bracelet system, Overseas timepieces are the perfect daily companions. vacheron-constantin.com
WATCHES - WOMEN
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December 2023
Chopard Happy Sport Chopard expresses its legendary Joie de Vivre in a burst of color with two exciting new shades joining its Happy Sport collection. Crafted from ethical 18-carat rose gold or Lucent Steel and powered by Chopard’s automatic 09.01-C movement, two different sizes feature glowing mother-of-pearl dials: Happy Sport 30 mm in fresh mint and Happy Sport 33 mm in rich purple. chopard.com
Baume & Mercier Riviera 10730 Baume & Mercier unveiled the new leading model of the collection: the Riviera M0A10730, a true halo of light. The warmth of its sun-satin gold dial, its transparent transfer waves, and its sunny radiance bring sculptural shape to the Roman numerals, the riveted indexes coated in Superluminova (C1, blue glow), and the faceted gold hands that indicate the hours, minutes, and seconds. baume-et-mercier.com
Parmigiani Fleurier Tonda PF Split Seconds Chronograph Dedicated to short-time measurement, the TONDA PF Chronographe Rattrapante (Split Seconds Chronograph) with its two column-wheels is an exceptional watchmaking instrument. Powered by Calibre PF361, a manually wound movement that beats at a rate of 5 Hz or 36,000 Vph, the chronograph times intervals to onetenth-of-a-second precision. parmigiani.com
Beauregard Lili Bouton Rose Gold - Australian Chrysoprase Lili Bouton is a discreet floral composition with a diameter of 33 mm that exudes high jewellery from each of its petals. It is an original and joyful creation that refuses to decide whether it’s a jewel or a watch. The Marlborough Australian mine having closed many years ago, Chrysoprase Gem gets harder to find by the day and with its soothing color it remains a beloved gem. beauregard.ch
OMEGA Aqua Terra Shades This 38 mm Aqua Terra Shades model is crafted in 18K Sedna™ Gold and is presented with a sun-brushed sandstone dial that is lacquered for extra shine. A sophisticated design that echoes the stillness of the ocean, with sailboat indexes and a sparkling diamond-paved bezel. omega-watches.com
Ebel Sport Classic Luscious Red Ebel celebrates its reconnection with tennis with the launch of two new editions of Ebel Sport Classic in luscious red. The functional retro design of the Ebel Sport Classic has a confident and fearless style, seamlessly transitioning from matchready to elegantly cool. It echoes the iconic sportchic spirit of Ebel’s original collaboration with 1980s tennis greats. ebel.com
FRAGRANCES - MEN
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FRESH and Bold
An eclectic mix of stimulating fragrances and intoxicating aromas guaranteed to make a statement. For men.
December 2023
Cartier Pasha de Cartier Parfum A new opus fragrance with a deep, intense signature enhanced by the warmth of sandalwood. A bold and sensual amber scent. A new perfume opus with an intense and deep signature carried by the warmth of sandalwood. A sensual and confident trail of amber. cartier.com
Giorgio Armani Acqua di Giò Parfum
Parfums de Marly Althaïr
With the falcon’s masculine form crafted in tones of graduated black, the new powerful fragrance is distinguished by its incense notes, which bring an incandescent intensity to the emblematic marine notes of Acqua di Giò. The result is a charismatic, vibrant fragrance with an aura of mystery.
An unexpected, modern ode to a universal ingredient of perfumery: Bourbon vanilla, “Althaïr explores a majestic, subtle and surprisingly fresh vanilla that is elegant, generous and charismatic.” Julien Sprecher, Founder and Artistic Director of Parfums de Marly.
armanibeauty.com
parfums-de-marly.com
Burberry Hero Eau de Parfum 150ml Housed in a deep oak-coloured bottle, finished with gold hues. The intense and invigorating Burberry Hero Eau de Parfum is distinguished by its notes of fragrant incense and benzoin on an earthy base of cedarwood oils and pine. row.burberry.com
Ex Nihilo Blue Talisman Designed as a hypnotic jewel, BLUE TALISMAN encapsulates the best of EX NIHILO’s know-how as an olfactory statement. This cutting-edge fragrance symbolizes an infinite spiritual energy expressed by the subtle freshness of Pear and Bergamot softened by abstract Musky and Ambery notes. ex-nihilo-paris.com
Creed Absolu Aventus Eau de Parfum A limited-edition fragrance from The House of Creed. Absolu Aventus incorporates the vivifying energy of grapefruit and pineapple with smoky Haitian vetiver. This one-of-a-kind masterpiece is destined to become an unforgettably unique experience for true connoisseurs.
Dolce&Gabbana DGVIB3 Eau de Parfum
creedboutique.com
DGVIB3 Fougere amber notes capture the brand’s essence, translating it into a complex yet perfectly balanced fragrance with refreshing and enveloping notes and made to be worn by everyone. A statement of style and belonging, this fragrance is made to be worn by everyone. dolcegabbana.com
Gucci Guilty Elixir de Parfum Pour Homme, 60ml
Huda Beauty Oudgasm Tobacco Oud | 04 Eau de Parfum
Gucci Guilty Elixir de Parfum Pour Homme is a powerful invitation to love and self-acceptance. The fragrance has an ambery leathery scent that features precious Patchouli, the signature ingredient of Gucci Guilty, amplified in concentration for an intensified impact.
Crafted with passion and inspired by Mona Kattan’s intense love for oud, KAYALI’s Oudgasm Tobacco Oud is a warm and enigmatic fragrance that explores the power and opulence of oud when blended with juicy mandarin, sweet and honeyed tobacco and spicy hints of clove and saffron.
gucci.com
hudabeauty.com
FRAGRANCES - MEN
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December 2023
Penhaligon’s The Omniscient Mr Thompson An infusion of soft yet sparkling spices opens this captivating fragrance. The addictive trail of a sumptuous powdery orris leads you to a velvety sesame milk while a rich and sweet vanilla bean reveals with subtlety its spellbinding sensuality. Only Mr Thompson has the key to a secret box. penhaligons.com
Jean Paul Gaultier Le Male Elixir Eau de Parfum
Dries Van Noten Soie Malaquais
Immediately dazzling, smoldering with virility, more flamboyant than ever, this fragrance is enough to set the senses on fire to the point of addiction. Just one torrid spritz of this woody aromatic amber elixir is ablaze with sensuality. Now, you’re ready!
Soie Malaquais is a harmonious blend of nature and luxury. The fragrance captures the essence of those brief, ethereal days, evoking the irrepressible delicacy of Rosa Centifolia. It envelops the wearer in an aura of ephemeral beauty and elegance. driesvannoten.com
jeanpaulgaultier.com
YSL Myslf Eau de Parfum The first YSL Beauty woody floral fragrance with a unique, long-lasting trail of modernity. A fragrance that seamlessly fuses with your skin, revealing a distinct signature for each individual. MYSLF is a statement of modern masculinity to celebrate your true self. Unapologetically. Proudly. yslbeautyus.com
FRAGRANCES - WOMEN
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Alluring Fragrances An eclectic mix of stimulating fragrances and intoxicating aromas guaranteed to make a statement. For women.
December 2023
Cartier La Panthère The La Panthère fragrance dares to revisit legendary chypre with an innovative floral-feline accord. A fragrance for which Cartier designed a bottle carved from the inside: a head sculpted at a right angle, a square jaw and beveled eye. It reflects the panther’s hypnotic signature; its sleek and sensual femininity. cartier.com
Byredo Rouge Chaotique
Cartier La Panthère Hair Mist
Drawn from one of the world’s most opulent raw materials, the animalic sensuality of oud brings the spectacular finale, blended with patchouli and balanced with the crisp tension of papyrus. A small amount of Rouge Chaotique radiates through the heat of the body, lingering for many hours.
Cartier’s new trick is spraying your hair with a hint of floral felinity. A mist that diffuses a light blend of Eau de Parfum Panthère, this powerful chypre fragrance is the result of combining pure, mesmerizing gardenia with sensual notes of musk. cartier.com
byredo.com
Carolina Herrera Mystery Tobacco Eau De Parfum In the background of the fragrance stand out the leaves of the tobacco plant. Here they join their strength to the exotic and colorful power of patchouli. An eau de parfum as powerful and unique as those unique and bold personalities who live forever in the memory of those who knew them. carolinaherrera.com
Dries Van Noten Soie Malaquais
Huda Beauty Oudgasm Café Oud | 19 Eau de Parfum Intense
Soie Malaquais is a harmonious blend of nature and luxury. The fragrance captures the essence of those brief, ethereal days, evoking the irrepressible delicacy of Rosa Centifolia. It envelops the wearer in an aura of ephemeral beauty and elegance.
Crafted with passion and inspired by Mona Kattan’s intense love for oud, Oudgasm Café Oud | 19 Eau de Parfum Intense is a sensually electrifying fragrance that combines creamy notes of cappuccino, a vibrant heart of rose and geranium and a woody resinous oud.
driesvannoten.com
hudabeauty.com
Jean Paul Gaultier Gaultier Divine Eau de Parfum Louis Vuitton Myriad Concentrated to the extreme in this virtuoso creation, oud blends with a made-to-measure rose. Traversed by ethereal white musks, it extends its leathery accents into swirls of saffron and reveals its raw sensuality upon contact with cocoa. A myriad of olfactory nuances, a tribute to Nature’s genius.
Beneath the celestial silhouette-shaped bottle and balancing floral notes alongside an earthen base, Gaultier Divine opens with the heavenly scents of lily and jasmine before settling into patchouli and musk to leave you feeling as though the world is truly at your fingertips. jeanpaulgaultier.com
eu.louisvuitton.com
Christian Louboutin Loubidoo Rose Inspired by a three-dimensional expression of a rose, this intoxicating trio of roses bursts forth from the fragrance’s head note and gives way to a cedar heart and musk base notes, drawing out the flower’s true character to reveal all the sensual secrets between its petals. christianlouboutin.com
FRAGRANCES - WOMEN
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December 2023
Narciso Rodriguez all of me Narciso’s all of me eau de parfum reinvents floral fragrance by fusing precious rose centifolia with bold geranium bourbon. A multi-faceted fragrance created for a new generation of women, who confidently embrace all that makes them unique – their beauty, their grace and their power. narcisorodriguezparfums.com
Prada Paradoxe Intense EDP 90ml
Thameen Bravi
Paradoxe Intense is a floral ambery fragrance with a woody inflection that reveals the intense contrasts of the ingredients: the powerful lift of the delicate Jasmine flower and the vibrant and enveloping warmth of an Amber accord, intensified by a subtle but instantly recognizable Moss accord.
Reimagined as Cologne Elixir with more faceted nuances layering over the classical structure of cologne, Bravi evokes memorable sillage and seductive longevity. Intoxicating tuberose is spiced up with an overdose of ginger and dramatized with a novel walnut milk accord. Perfect for an opulent evening. thameenfragrance.com
prada.com
Cacharel Yes I Am An Eau de Parfum, based for the first time on the spicy creamy contrast of Cream of Cardamom. A sequence of powerhouse colors, from its spray top of lipstick red, to its pale gold-toned collar and smoky black glass bottle. Cacharel’s Yes I Am stands out in a room of fragrances. cacharel.fr
PLUG INTO YOUR SENSES GV60
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SPECIAL FEATURE
01 Aerial view of Basra Lights Village
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December 2023
Illuminating the Path to Progress In a land steeped in history and culture, the Basra Lights Village brings together the most iconic landmarks from across the lands of Mesopotamia, illuminating the splendors of Iraq’s past civilizations and celebrating the resilience and hopes of the peoples for a brighter future.
The Basra Lights Village comprises brilliant lantern replicas of 22 monuments, representing all the different governorates, plus flora and fauna found across the land. The iconic monuments traverse history and time from the ancient gardens of Babylon to modern architectural marvels like the Italian Bridge in Basra. The Village, outlined in the shape of Iraq, is a microcosm of the tourist attractions across Iraq, allowing visitors a virtual tour of the country. A concept realised from the collaboration between Al Seraj Advertising and Pico International Bahrain, the innovative lantern installations have dazzled all visitors since it’s official opening on 2 December. This Village is the inception part of a bigger public park – the Basra Palm Park, which will feature a full range of facilities, including recreational areas, retail, restaurants and cultural spaces. The Basra Palm Park will create a common gathering place and a vibrant hub of activity, attracting local residents and visitors alike. With its strategic location, the upcoming
Basra Palm Park also holds immense potential for economic growth. The development has spurred the creation of job opportunities for the local population, both in construction and ongoing operations. Additionally, the surge in tourism has given rise to a burgeoning service sector and a renewed focus on the hospitality industry. These economic gains have transformed the lives of many residents, injecting newfound prosperity into the region. Spearheaded by the Governorate of Basra, this extraordinary project is a dazzling testimony of the infinite potential of the country and its people. The Basra Lights Village stands as a shining testament to the power of determination, innovation, and collaboration. It represents the progress and resilience of the Iraqi people and offers a glimpse into a brighter future. As the lights dazzle the night sky, they symbolize the hopes and dreams of a nation rediscovering its true potential. blv23.com
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“The Basra Lights Village stands as a shining testament to the power of determination, innovation, and collaboration.”
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02 The reed Mudhif, an example of the traditional architectural legacy that exists today 03 Camels in their natural habitat, reflecting Iraq’s environmental diversity 04 The waterwheels represent historical innovations reflecting civilizational development and adaptation to environmental resources 05 Martyr’s Monument, a tribute to the unknown soldier, an Iraqi architectural masterpiece of design and construction
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Capturing EQUINE MAJESTY
December 2023
01 Katarzyna Okrzesik-Miko ajek 02 Clash of The Titans, two Camargue stallions exhibit their strength as the last rays of the sun highlight their silhouettes against a dark stormy sky
Fascinated by the natural beauty of horses, Katarzyna Okrzesik-Miko ajek has been sharing her life between traveling and photography for almost 15 years. Her new book, ‘PERCEPTION - The Horse’s Infinite Beauty’, takes readers on a journey through her development as a photographer, showing the places and horses that touched her soul the deepest. 01
CAN YOU TELL US ABOUT YOUR JOURNEY AS AN EQUINE PHOTOGRAPHER? HOW DID YOU GET STARTED IN THIS FIELD AND WHAT INSPIRED YOU TO SPECIALIZE IN PHOTOGRAPHING HORSES? I had a fascination with horses from an early age. Even though no one in my family had horses and I had no contact with them, for as long as I can remember I have been collecting everything that contained visions of a beautiful horse. Horse riding was not an option that interested me. It was only at the age of 16-17 that I reached for my first analog camera, which turned out to be the key missing element of the puzzle. It was the desire to capture the beauty of horses that became my goal, and the camera became my link with their world, through which I get to know and study them to this day. I never took any study on photography. The skill of photography itself is the result of many years of learning through persistent practice, because I am self-taught.
YOUR NEW BOOK, PERCEPTION, EXPLORES A UNIQUE PERSPECTIVE ON EQUINE PHOTOGRAPHY. COULD YOU TELL US MORE ABOUT THE CONCEPT BEHIND YOUR BOOK AND WHAT INSPIRED YOU TO CAPTURE HORSES IN THIS WAY? Perception - The Horse’s Infinite Beauty was
created as a summary of my fifteen years of devoting myself to equine photography and traveling around the world to capture my visions related to them. As the title itself reveals, the book takes the recipient on a journey which is showing how I perceived them at particular stages of my improvement as a photographer and what a great influence horses and photography had on my personal development.
WHAT CHALLENGES DID YOU FACE WHILE WORKING ON PERCEPTION, AND HOW DID YOU OVERCOME THEM? WERE THERE ANY SPECIAL TECHNIQUES OR EQUIPMENT YOU USED TO ACHIEVE THE DESIRED RESULTS? Over the course of years of working as a dedicated equine photographer, I have learned, above all, to get out of my comfort zone. In many fields. The desire to capture many of these frames required me to travel to many distant places of the world and the courage to often go into the unknown, which later awakened in me a great passion for full-time travel. One of the biggest technical difficulties that I often face are climate and weather. Many difficult conditions have taught me one lesson, which I repeat to all horse photography students - there is no bad weather, you just need to know how to deal with it and then how to get the best of it. Many of my best
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03 Dancing in the Mist, two young stallions playing during a misty morning 04 Sectio Aurea, portrait of Lusitano stallion. His baroque body shape extending on the arch of the neck and continuing along the edge of the head with a light roman profile 05 Flawless, photography of Andalusian horse, taken in high key technique, representing delicacy and purity of horse inwardness 06 Horses of the Sea, herd of sculpture-like Camargue horses canter across the sea in Camargue National Park 07 Shades of Friendship, three young Iberian stallions had this one very tranquil moment, while during constant play, they came to each other to show their gentleness
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and award-winning photographs were taken in rain, heavy fog, or deep snow during sessions at temperatures below -25 degrees Celsius.
HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE YOUR APPROACH TO CAPTURING THE ESSENCE AND SPIRIT OF HORSES IN YOUR PHOTOGRAPHS? WHAT ELEMENTS DO YOU FOCUS ON TO TRULY CONVEY THEIR BEAUTY AND MAJESTY? Even though we create a scenario before each photo session and guide people on how to work with the horses to bring us closer to our goal, at the end the horses have the last word. I like to give them space and let them propose something from themselves - sometimes it is a look in a completely different direction, sometimes a move in a completely unplanned direction, sometimes a step away from us to focus on something else. Very often, giving them freedom of their own expression makes what they propose much better than what I planned. Once I am patient, I will be rewarded with the best performance.
YOUR WORK OFTEN SHOWCASES THE NATURAL BEAUTY OF HORSES IN VARIOUS SETTINGS. WHAT ARE SOME OF YOUR FAVORITE LOCATIONS OR ENVIRONMENTS TO PHOTOGRAPH THESE MAGNIFICENT CREATURES, AND WHY?
I love photographing horses with mountains in the background or in water splashing under their hooves. In the morning light that flows through their manes or in the setting sun that beautifully paints their muscles. However, I love it most when they are surrounded by dust, fog or snow. These elements allow me to transport my audience to a dreamier world. These phenomena also provide a very strong visual experience because they can silence what is unnecessarily distracting, sometimes cover the entire surrounding world to focus only on what is important - the beauty and emotions of our hero.
WHAT ADVICE DO YOU HAVE FOR ASPIRING EQUINE PHOTOGRAPHERS WHO WANT TO CAPTURE THE SPIRIT OF HORSES IN THEIR WORK? ARE THERE ANY KEY TIPS OR INSIGHTS YOU COULD SHARE BASED ON YOUR OWN EXPERIENCES IN THIS FIELD? The only advice I can give is what I would have liked to have heard myself when I was starting out - get out of your comfort zone! Practice especially what you know is most difficult for you. If you lack competence in a given topic, try to learn and work through it even more. Moreover, remember that only by overcoming what is least convenient for us will help us truly develop and constantly increase our improvement. bookperception.com
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BEAUTY TRENDS The latest cosmetics from the most luxurious brands for that perfect look.
Anastasia Beverly Hills Modern Renaissance and Sultry Eyeshadow Palettes Mini Version With 9 full-pigment shades carefully curated to encapsulate the essence of the original Modern Renaissance Palette, this mini version offers a spectrum of stunning colors, ranging from neutral to captivating berry-red hues. anastasiabeverlyhills.com
Asteri Eye Makeup Essentials
Benefit Fan Fest Mascara
A collection that promises to elevate your beauty game and unlock the potential for stunning, captivating eyes, this carefully curated selection of products is designed to deliver exceptional results, whether you’re seeking a subtle, everyday allure or aiming to venture into bold and mesmerizing styles.
Get an instant eye-opening effect with Benefit’s new Fan Fest mascara. The custom-engineered brush plus the fanning formula work together to fan out lashes side-to-side, amplify volume and multiply the look of lashes. Smudge, humidity, and sweatproof, it won’t clamp or flake.
asteribeauty.com
benefitcosmetics.com
Chanel Les Beiges Water-Fresh Complexion Touch A first-of-its-kind versatile face makeup formula infused with ultra-concentrated microdroplet pigments. Its refreshing and lightweight texture and formula keeps skin hydrated and protected throughout the day. Pinpoint concealing or a perfecting veil of coverage, for a natural flawless finish. chanel.com
Chanel Sublimage L’extrait De Nuit Featuring a high concentration of active ingredients, its innovative formula rejuvenates skin and helps accelerate its natural repair mechanisms, which are more intense at night than during the day. From the very first morning, the complexion has a rested, radiant appearance. chanel.com
Guerlain Parure Gold Skin Control Guerlain continues its beauty manifesto with a new galenic formulation and ritual as it reinvents its compact foundation. Guerlain presents Parure Gold Skin Control, which combines the benefits of the Parure Gold Skin fluid foundations in an innovative new powder formula. guerlain.fr
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Dr. Sturm Advent Calendar
December 2023
Dior Le 30 Montaigne Advent Calendar
The Advent Calendar features a selection of Dr. Sturm’s most loved products, as well as her latest innovations and makes the perfect holiday gift. It includes a super anti-aging cleansing cream, lip balm, darker skin tones hyaluronic serum, face cream, face mask, lifting serum and many more.
The house of Dior presents this magical Dior Advent Calendar which recreates the facade of the historic boutique at 30 Avenue Montaigne. It opens to display a stunning decoration created by Pietro Ruffo, an invitation on an enchanting stroll: inspired by the beauty of the Tuileries Garden.
drsturm.com
dior.com
Elizabeth Arden Advanced Light Ceramide Capsules Strengthening and Refining Serum Youth-restoring solutions that replenish, support and complement skin’s essential, naturally occurring elements. This fast-absorbing, ultra-lightweight serum delivers barrier-strengthening and pore-perfecting power in just one dose. Formulated for maximum potency and encapsulated for purity. elizabetharden.com
Huda Beauty Get Clean 2% PHA & Sea Moss Gentle Foaming Cleanser 2% Gluconic Acid gently exfoliates the skin while Sea Moss helps retain moisture leaving the complexion refreshed and supple. Get Clean is packed with Coconut & Amino Acid Derived Surfactants that melt away makeup while Salicylic Acid & Willow Bark work to unclog pores without stripping the skin. hudabeauty.com
Huda Beauty Pretty Grunge Liquid Matte Lip Quad Four of the iconic Liquid Matte Lipsticks in mini size. The quad has two of the bestselling shades, Bombshell and Sweet Talker, along with two new shades, Maverick and Rebel. These lipsticks have major staying power, boast 8-hour wear, and have intense color for an effortless, lived-in, rockstar look. hudabeauty.com
Pat McGrath Labs Skin Fetish: The Collection Encased in a luxurious, dual-ended, white-haute lacquered stick adorned with McGrath’s signature hallmarks, each transformative duet stars as an incandescent highlighter and sublime balm that sets skin alight with incendiary elegance and celestial effects. patmcgrath.com
Victoria Beckham Beauty Dr. PawPaw Lip Balm Dr. PawPaw’s Original Balm is enriched with papaya fruit, providing long lasting nourishing results for both skin and hair, Aloe Vera which soothes sore and sensitive skin and helps to repair hair, and Olive Oil that deeply moisturizes dry and cracked skin leaving it hydrated and soft. drpawpaw.com
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December 2023
Artful Glamor
Elie Saab’s Bridal Fall 2024 Collection blends timeless elegance and intricate details. Elie Saab Bridal Fall 2024 is a poetic expression of optimism and promise. The collection is a glimpse into a bygone era of alluring femininity, celebrating glamorous bridal elegance in simple lines, exceptional detailing and subtle sparkle of diamond dust. Art Déco inspired, each gown is exquisitely composed with precise intention and material artistry. Fine filigree beadwork tresses across ballet and strapless necklines into linear symmetrical abstractions that cascade down demure tulle skirts in glistening sunrays. Sumptuous draped mikado wraps the female form as pure satin ties into a sweetheart bow, bringing a hint of capricious movement to pristine structural lines. Iridescent crystals and sequins delicately illuminate floral appliqué and hemlines, like gemstones catching flickers of light. Delicate floral outlines of Chantilly lace dance off shoulders and down lustrous sleeves, only to soften into ballgowns of voluminous proportion. Exquisite fabrics and ornamental textures become streamlined silhouettes that exude sleek sophistication and lustrous grace. A wispy feathered veil floats above a fitted sheath gown with a V-neck back, its translucent tulle skirt shimmering in constellations of diamond dust. Like heirloom broaches, a vintage-inspired bow in rhinestones and silver thread embellishes the cinched waistline of a short bell gown with an airy ruffle skirt. Contrasting floral embroidery and point d’esprit tulle balance into a mermaid gown with a subtle sweep train of lingering impressions. Each tight-waisted bejewelled expression clasps shut with complementing boleros and veils. eliesaab.com
FASHION - BRIDAL
Playful Sophistication The Oscar de la Renta Fall 2024 Bridal Collection enlivens classic silhouettes with exquisite craftsmanship.
Strapless column silk faille gown features an oversized structured bow that fans asymmetrically. For those seeking a more playful twist, a cheeky iteration of this gown is offered as a draped mini, finished with a pronounced bow behind the shoulders of the bride. Dreamy silhouettes manifest throughout the collection including a scoop neck cap-sleeve ball gown, embellished with intricate floral thread work. A delicately pleated tulle gown with a corseted bodice features ethereal off-the-shoulder tulle sleeves and a neckline adorned in Lily of the Valley embroideries. Wild hydrangea motifs embroider a cap-sleeve cocktail dress, creating a mesmerizing 3D effect. The decolletage, beautifully adorned with the nude tulle yolk, paints the illusion of leaves swaying freely in the wind. A corseted gown is embellished with this same captivating hydrangea embroidery and romantically flares at the skirt, with Chantilly bows tying at the sleeves. The Oscar de la Renta fall 2024 bridal collection radiates at timeless and sophisticated glamour. oscardelarenta.com
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December 2023
FASHION-MEN
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Summer SERENITY Hermes’ Men’s Summer 2023 Collection celebrates the joy of being together in summer. A bright, vibrant summer; the joy of being together. The vacation spirit, a magic destination both joyous and serene, with the breeze imperceptibly ruffling the clothes that enfold you. A feeling of lightness makes you float in the sunlight. The colors of the clothes are sweetly poetic: lemonade, lagoon, lilac, bubblegum, melon, etc. Sometimes the light turns them white, or pastel. Undulating forms of aqueous transparency: some prints seemingly move of their own volition, lines deviating slightly on their sloping path to freedom; here a pocket slides and shifts as if desiring to head outward. Elsewhere, a shirt proudly displays a bold and charming seahorse, or a spectacular giant crayfish. Berlingot canvas, nubuck calfskin, crepe cotton serge, perforated leather, sunset tints... the collection is precise, crafted with the refinement of the hand and the nonchalance of a mind that is free of barriers. In the open-air enclosure of the Manufacture des Gobelins, Cyril Teste, close partner of Véronique Nichanian, imagined a gesture in the form of a canvas sliding out of the building, swaying slightly in the breeze before disappearing – as if diving – through a workshop window. hermes.com
December 2023
FASHION - MEN
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December 2023
Evolving Elegance Tom Ford’s Spring 2023 Men’s Collection showcases a captivating evolution of the brand’s identity. The Tom Ford Ocean Plastic timepieces and oversized shades make a bold statement. A subtle essence of Tom Ford’s iconic fragrances, Tobacco Vanille or Neroli Portofino, lingers in the air as the collection gracefully evolves the brand’s core menswear identity. This evolution unfolds through three intertwined elements. First, there is the relaxed yet sophisticated formal tailoring, echoing a touch of 1950s style inspired by Tom Ford’s recent project with nu-Elvis Austin Butler. The standout piece is the Austin suit, boasting broad shoulders and a 1.5-breasted design in a range of jewel-toned hues and creamy alternatives. Fabrics vary from viscose to wool and mohair, often paired with sneakers and double-zipped silk bombers replacing traditional waistcoats. Notably, a silk trench demands protection from rain to preserve its allure. The collection embraces laid-back semi-formal casual wear, featuring slim-hipped silhouettes and showcasing Cafe Racer jackets in stamped animaliapatterned leather or quilted effects. A striking ensemble includes a nappa leopard trucker layered over a silk leopard shirt and tank, complemented by leopard pants and ponyskin leopard boots—a look with more leopard than Lampedusa. Carefully ripped and repaired denim pays homage to Ford’s lockdown-inspired staples, culminating in the chapter’s highlight: velour animalia pajamas. tomford.com
FASHION - WOMEN
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December 2023
Signature Silhouettes Louis Vuitton’s Spring-Summer 2023 Women’s Collection celebrates femininity. Putting femininity in the spotlight, the Spring-Summer 2023 Collection changes the play of proportions, using emphasis as a figure of style, where the infinitely large and infinitely small come together in one silhouette. The Maison’s signatures that have become ingrained in Louis Vuitton’s DNA take on a disproportionate quality, becoming integral to the collection’s narrative. Finding this new balance in scale, zippers and snaps are outsized, clasps become belt buckles, and a scrap of leather is turned into an outfit. Zooming in on elements of a woman’s wardrobe, proportions and scales are reinvented, creating silhouettes where the details reign over. Belts printed using a 3D effect take on a trompe l’oeil effect, while folds of a kilt are enlarged and become flat pleated dresses, adding a playful and unique aspect. Nicolas Ghesquière also uses embroidery that
simulates a macro tweed, created using a 3D scanner and blowing up each image to highlight every thread and its texture. Using emphasis as a figure of style, a selection of bags take on disproportionate details, while others are recreated with dramatic proportions. Staged once again in the majestic surroundings of the Louvre in Paris, Louis Vuitton’s Spring-Summer 2023 Collection is unveiled in the museum’s Cour Carrée. For the first time, Nicolas Ghesquière has invited leading French contemporary artist Philippe Parreno and production designer James Chinlund to conceptualize the event’s spectacular set design. With metal grills, mirrors, and a myriad of lightbulbs that evoke a fairground attraction, the set is centered upon a vividly red “monster flower” with golden stamen that rise up dramatically into the Parisian sky. louisvuitton.com
FASHION - WOMEN
Sculpted COUTURE Chanel’s Spring-Summer 2023 Haute Couture Collection showcases embroideries of exquisite lightness. Inspired by the mythical animal sculptures inside Gabrielle Chanel’s apartment at 31, rue Cambon, in Paris, the Spring Summer 2023 Haute Couture collection imagined by Virginie Viard reveals embroideries of exquisite lightness. Models emerge from inside wooden sculptures created by artist Xavier Veilhan. Angèle, Vanessa Paradis, Xavier Veilhan, G-Dragon and Tilda Swinton, were among the guests gathered at the Grand Palais Éphémère in Paris for the CHANEL Spring-Summer 2023 Haute Couture collection imagined by Virginie Viard and inspired by the bestiary of drawings and sculptures inside Gabrielle Chanel’s apartment. The minimalist decor was brought to life by Xavier Veilhan’s mobile sculptures made of wood, cardboard and paper. From his Parisian studio to the Grand Palais Éphémère, artist Xavier Veilhan muses on the dreamlike animal sculptures that inhabit the CHANEL Spring-Summer 2023 Haute Couture show decor. The bestiary marries his artistic universe with the symbols of Gabrielle Chanel’s apartment at 31, rue Cambon, in Paris. Larger-than-life, an imaginary bird created by the artist Xavier Veilhan alights in the rue Cambon, in Paris, revealing a first look at the CHANEL Spring-Summer 2023 Haute Couture collection imagined by Virginie Viard and embodied by model Vivienne Rohner. chanel.com
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BAGS
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December 2023
EXQUISITE STYLE
Gorgeous designer hand bags to add a touch of class to your look. Cartier C de Cartier A true classic of the Maison, the C de Cartier mini model chain bag comes in black calfskin with embroidery, golden-finish clasp, and golden hot-stamped “Cartier” signature on the inside. It features one interior compartment, six credit card slots, and one flat pocket. cartier.com
Balenciaga Gold Series Balenciaga’s Gold Series bags exude an aura of opulent luxury, crafted from the finest materials and adorned with gleaming gold hardware. These bags are a testament to the brand’s commitment to timeless elegance and cutting-edge design. balenciaga.com
Dior Miss Dior Bag Maria Chiuri pays tribute to the House’s heritage with the Miss Dior bag. This exceptional creation is dressed in silky-leather, embellished by the graphic motifs of the iconic cannage. Fitted with a precious gold chain, this new object of desire offers multiple manners of being carried and suits any occasion. dior.com
Fendi Baguette Twist This iconic medium Baguette bag comes with a color-block effect minimalist twist. Part of the collection designed by Stefano Pilati, it is made from soft white Nappa leather and embellished with two metal FF buckles on the sides of the bag, making them visible when worn under the arm. fendi.com
Gucci Blondie Mini Bucket Bag A bold motif of the House, the Gucci Blondie continues to exude subtle style, thanks to its tonal leather appearance. Formed from a rounded geometric version of the Interlocking G, the line exemplifies Gucci’s contemporary design. The logo detail defines this mini bucket bag in black leather with tassel details. gucci.com
Jacquemus Le Bisou Perle A metallic patent leather structured shoulder bag, it features adjustable buckle leather strap with large beads, piped outline, one interior patch pocket, silver metal logo and hardware, and zip closure. Each leather is unique and has been carefully selected. jacquemus.com
BAGS
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December 2023
Lafshar Sierra in Ombré Purple Mirror With Chain Handmade in Dubai the Sierra Ombré purple mirror finish gives it a unique look and the silver hardware complements the overall design. Made from acrylic, it features 24K Electro-plated hardware, magnetic closure, and clear top handles. Carry it by itself or with its included chain for a statement. lafshar.com
Loewe Small Squeeze Bag in Nappa Lambskin The Squeeze bag is a sophisticated and feminine bag in buttery Nappa leather. It is a masterpiece of traditional craftsmanship, innovative research and distinctive design, with a surprisingly light ruched body, an adjustable donut chain and a tactile squeezy handle. This is a small version in Nappa lambskin. loewe.com
Louis Vuitton Atlantis GM With its innovative shopping-bag shape, the Atlantis GM handbag is crafted from Monogram canvas. It’s signed with the House’s instantly recognizable name tag, featuring gold-color LV Initials. The zipped inside pocket helps keep essentials organized while the adjustable, removable strap enables cross-body wear. eu.louisvuitton.com
Prada Galleria Floral-Print Saffiano Leather Mini-Bag Composed of 83 separate pieces, the Prada Galleria bag blends industrial precision and the refined accuracy of craftsmanship that can only be performed by hand. The design is clean and elegant yet innately pragmatic, an aesthetic language blending form and function that combines history and modernity. prada.com
MCM Maxi Monogram Designed with a maximalist take on the brand codes, the collection introduces an oversized variation of the brand’s monogram through the diamond, laurel and MCM lettering, highlighting the iconic elements which have comprised its signature design since 1976. mcmworldwide.com
Valentino Vlogo Moon Valentino Garavani Moon small hobo bag comes in leather with chain and metal VLogo Signature detail. Equipped with a chain and detachable leather shoulder strap, the bag can be worn as a crossbody/shoulder bag or carried by hand. Gold tone-finish chain and hardware. valentino.com
SHOE ARTICLE
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Reviving Rhythm Reebok, the irreverent sports culture brand, and Mallet London, the premium British fashion label, reveal a collaborative footwear collection that draws inspiration from the iconic UK music scene in the 90s and 2000s. The capsule heroes two styles prevalent on the streets of London while youngsters were growing up in Europe and the rest of the world: the Workout Plus and Classic Leather. Bringing together two brands founded in England, the collaboration reflects the culture, style and vibe that are at the heart of the city of London. The Mallet London x Reebok Classic Leather and Workout Plus were designed with city kids in mind and feature the original Reebok leather, each available in triple black and white colorways. The triple black is a nod to the daily uniform of noughties kids, while the all-white is made for nights and weekends. Finishing the shoes are signature Mallet London details, including a silver heel clip, metal tongue tab, perforated ‘M’ embossing and London bus ticket keychain. Paired with the collection is a campaign titled ‘Before, Now, Forever’, which champions the UK music scene in the ‘90s and 2000s and illustrates how Reebok was synonymous with garage music and pirate radio. The campaign stars garage legend Majestic and shows how the Reebok Classic Leather and Workout Plus were stalwarts in the scene decades ago and continue to be relevant through their status as timeless classics. The Mallet London x Reebok collection is available at mallet.com and Level Shoes. mallet.com
December 2023
SHOES - MEN
Quality and Class
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December 2023
Balmain B-Court printed leather trainers Tying in with contemporary branding trends, this pair of lace-up sneakers from Balmain feature an embossed leather Balmain Paris logo on the tongue and a logo print on the rubber outsole. The material used for these trainers is 100% calf leather, so that you can enjoy your sneakers for a very long time. int.balmain.com
Complete your distinguished look with the latest in high-end men’s shoes. Dolce & Gabbana Stivaletto The “Re-Edition” collection is an evocative journey back to the brand’s origins, where the past and present meet to give life to an innovative vision and interpretation of Dolce & Gabbana’s archives. The iconic brown leather lace-up boots come with a branded dust bag. dolcegabbana.com
Christian Louboutin Astroloubi Sneakers - Calf leather and suede - Black Inspired by the world of basketball in the 90s, the Astroloubi is a lowtop sneaker in black crafted in calf leather, suede, and patent leather. It also features an iconic heel tab, a CL varsity monogram on the side, and signature Maison Christian Louboutin spikes. us.christianlouboutin.com
Dior Combat Derby Shoe - Black polished calfskin New for Spring 2024, the Dior Combat Derby shoe presents a modern silhouette. The black polished calfskin style and hybrid sole offer ultimate comfort and an elevated couture appeal. The shoe will enhance all seasonal looks with a contemporary touch. dior.com
Gucci MAC80 Sneaker The MAC80 sneaker returns for Cruise 2024 in new variations and colors. With embroidered Interlocking G and Gucci lettering standing out against an off-white leather base, this motif brings the House logo to the fore. This sneaker is enriched with merino wool and designed to stand out. gucci.com
Jimmy Choo Elias Zip Boot Best paired with tailored looks for enduring sophistication, the Elias boots are a wardrobe classic. The black calf leather zip boots are crafted in luxe leather and finished with a simple zip fastening. They’re designed with a round toe and stacked heel featuring the Jimmy Choo logo. row.jimmychoo.com
SHOES - MEN
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December 2023
Off-White Kick Off A stylish and versatile choice, these white and black running sneakers are perfect for those seeking both comfort and sophistication. The Kick Off sneakers feature the iconic Off-White logo in black, a classic white lace-up closure, and a 100% rubber sole, ensuring stability with every step. off---white.com
Louis Vuitton Discovery Ankle Boot The LV Discovery ankle boot draws inspiration from hiking shoes for its sporty design in a mix of technical materials. This model is notable for its lightweight, bouncy rubber outsole, which provides extra grip. The outsole is decorated with monogram flowers, while the tongue features a Vuitton signature. eu.louisvuitton.com
Prada Leather sneakers with crystals Embellished with tonal crystals and decorated with the enameled metal triangle logo, the sporty silhouette of these leather sneakers is elevated with sparkling details. The lettering logo on the tongue and rubber sole add a touch of contemporary elegance to this masterpiece. prada.com
Versace Barocco Greca The low-top silhouette is characterized by an engraved Greca pattern on vulcanized rubber soles and features Greca embroidery on the uppers. This Versace piece will be beautifully wrapped using FSCcertified Barocco tissue paper and a FSC-certified matte black box, making the perfect gift. versace.com
Valentino Toile Iconographe Combat Boots The Valentino Garavani combat boot seamlessly blends luxury and functionality. Crafted in Italy, this boot features a combination of Toile Iconographe technical fabric and premium calfskin leather. With a rubber sole designed to maximize durability, this boot is ideal for all terrains and weather conditions. valentino.com
Saint Laurent Wyatt Jodphur in Suede The Wyatt Jodphur boots are the embodiment of Italian craftsmanship. The stacked heel provides an elegant lift, while the convenient back pull tab ensures convenience. With a durable leather Blake-stitched sole, these boots make a reliable companion for any occasion. ysl.com
SHOES - WOMEN
Stepping in Style
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Amina Muaddi Rih crystal-embellished mirroredleather and PVC sandals Amina Muaddi’s footwear is all about the glamour. These ‘Rih’ sandals have suede straps embellished with rows of sparkling crystals; the ones at the ankles are secured with clear PVC strips and look as if they’re floating. The mirrored leather and pin-thin heels add a final dose of drama. aminamuaddi.com
Add iconic style to your luxury collection with the latest and most sought-after designer women’s shoes. Aquazzura Bow Tie Pump 105 A natural trend-setter that needs no introduction, these Bow Tie Pumps are crafted from supple black nappa leather with a high-shine craquele finish. They feature a flattering pointed toe, skin-baring side cutouts, and a flirty upward bow at the back for that extra special finishing touch. aquazzura.com
December 2023
Christian Louboutin Astrid Lace Strass 85mm Strappy pumps - Velvet and strass - Glam The architectural Astrid Lace Strassita pump enchants with sophisticated lines. This Maison Christian Louboutin model is crafted in velvet and pink suede calf leather. It features a pointed toe and an 85mm heel adorned with silver strass. Long sequin laces tie around the ankle, adding a hint of glamour. christianlouboutin.com
Balenciaga Gold Series Shoes Balenciaga’s Gold Series shoes elevate the ordinary to the extraordinary, seamlessly blending style and comfort. These shoes are crafted from premium materials and feature eye-catching gold accents, making them a statement piece for any fashion-forward individual. balenciaga.com
Hermes Heden 80 sandal The Heden 80 sandal is meticulously designed to elevate your collection. The sandals boast a palladium-plated Hapi buckle and a wrap-around ankle strap for a chic, feminine look. Featuring luxurious suede goatskin, it is the ideal addition to an elegant, timeless look. hermes.com
Jimmy Choo Zea 95 Black Satin Sandals with Metal Flowers The Zea is a barely-there sandal with a contemporary drop heel. Italian-crafted in sleek satin adorned with gold-tone metal flowers, this modern shoe is a striking complement to your after-dark capsule. It features a square toe, set on a flattering 95mm heel with an adjustable ankle strap fastening. row.jimmychoo.com
SHOES - WOMEN
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December 2023
Manolo Blahnik SPAAK White Nappa Leather Zig Zag Mules For Winter 23, Manolo pays tribute to the father of his dear friend, Paloma Picasso, and fellow Spaniard, Pablo Picasso. White nappa leather pointed toe mules feature blue and red suede zig-zag details to reflect Picasso’s early cubist depictions. manoloblahnik.com
Louis Vuitton Silhouette Ankle Boot The Silhouette ankle boot is crafted from smooth calf leather with a monogram flower-shaped heel. The elegant upper is embellished with a VVN leather strap around the top of the boot and white elastic on the side panels. It is a true testament to Italian craftsmanship. eu.louisvuitton.com
Mach & Mach Triple Heart 110 Crystal & Glittered Leather Pumps Mach & Mach’s silver Triple Hearts pumps are meticulously crafted in Italy from glittered leather with a cluster of crystal lovehearts at the elongated point toe. Add a touch of sparkle to any occasion with these pumps for a long-lasting impression. matchesfashion.com
Saint Laurent Auteuil Boots in Glazed Leather
Rene Caovilla Margot Black and Gold Ankle Boot 105
Standing at a total heel height of 4.1 inches, the Auteuil Boots provide a flattering lift to your silhouette. These boots are crafted from 100% calfskin leather. They feature a square pointed toe, a gold-plated setback heel, and a convenient side zip closure, exuding a modern, luxurious vibe. ysl.com
The Margot ankle boot piques curiosity with a golden rhinestone serpent that climbs from the stiletto heel up the ankle, in a sensual twist that creates an intriguing color-block effect. Crafted in Italy, it’s carefully knit to be stretchy, ultra-comfortable, and leg-hugging. renecaovilla.com
Valentino Rockstud Ankle Strap Pump with Tonal Studs 100 mm The Valentino Garavani Rockstud Ankle Strap Pump is a true icon of elegance and style. Made from premium calfskin leather, these pumps feature tone-on-tone lacquered studs that create a striking look. The adjustable straps and trims that perfectly match the upper offer a polished, customized fit. valentino.com
MASTERPIECE
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December 2023
01 The character Candy Lady, representing sugar addiction 02 Award-winning designer, Taras Yoom (born as Taras Zheltyshev)
A UNIVERSE OF ART Yoomoota tells a big story through sculptures, paintings, furniture, mixed media pieces, cartoons, storybooks and NFTs. The objects of the universe represent the fantastic inner world of mankind, embodying all the phenomena of our life. 02
Taras Yoom (born as Taras Zheltyshev) is an award-winning designer based in Bangkok, a participant in multiple international exhibitions, and the creator of the Yoomoota collection who is also well-known for using his knowledge of biology and nature with a personalization approach in design and art projects. Before receiving his degree in medicine and unfolding his creativity in a hospital, he turned his way to design. Today, he is a multidisciplinary artist, creating sculpture, paintings, collectible design objects, furniture, and NFTs. His works are featured in Hypebeast, ELLE Decor, Forbes, GQ, AD, Design-Milk, Hypebae, etc. In his early twenties, Taras worked part-time in a laboratory and an architectural bureau, creating interior items and art objects. While he
was inventing an exquisite combination of organic and functional works, design, artistic activity, and biophysics merged into unity in his mind. Over time, his projects blurred the boundary between visible reality and the hidden natural processes of organisms he observed during medical studies. That led to the prevalence of histological ornaments, molecular images, and the living organisms’ colors and shapes in the art. The Yoomoota universe is a reflection of the inner world and natural structure of a human being, which materializes into a parallel universe with its own planets and inhabitants. It’s a projection of our bodies and minds, representing everything that exists in humanity on a global scale. It sets a new art and design trend that
combines natural forms and lines of the human body with an animation style and pertinent surrealism elements. The collection is available as design objects as well as an NFT collection. Taras is currently working on opening Yoomoota galleries in Asia and the Middle East. Yoomoota consists of at least 23 planets, inhabited by various characters. Here, you can find planets of emotions, the body, addictions, pleasures, sins, knowledge, cravings, and childhood. Among the main characters are Candy Lady, representing sugar addiction; Pillman, symbolizing pill addiction; Fast Money, Gameboy, Pure Love, and others. yoomoota.com
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“Yoomoota consists of at least
December 2023
23 planets, inhabited by various characters.”
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03 The Yoomoota universe is a reflection of the inner world 04 Exquisite combination of organic and functional works 05 Yoomoota consists of at least 23 planets, inhabited by various characters 06 New design trend that combines natural forms with animation style and surrealism elements
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ARCHITECTURE
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BOUTIQUE Experience
The most luxurious shopping destinations from around the world.
December 2023
BUCCELLATI VENICE, ITALY Buccellati has relocated its historic boutique in Venice from Mercerie dell’Orologio 214/216, which has been open for about thirty years, to Salizada San Moisè, Sestiere San Marco 1295, which is a calle located right in the centre, between St. Mark’s Square and Calle Vallaresco, populated by the shops of the great luxury brands, Venice’s famous Harry’s Bar and 5-star hotels. The architectural style of the new boutique echoes that of the other Buccellati shops in the world, with its typical historic shop windows finished in gold leaf, but set in the unique, historic context of Venice, with references to the city’s typical aesthetic canons, such as the façade and signboard typical of Venetian shops, the Venetian seminato floor, and the consoles, the tables and chairs from the 18th century elegantly shaped and hand-carved. All details that blend with the style of Buccellati products, creating, together, an ambience of great refinement. The care and attention to details that Buccellati has dedicated to this new space testify to the deep bond that binds the Maison to Venice and to the goldsmithing techniques that have deep roots here and from which Buccellati has always drawn inspiration over the course of more than one hundred years of history. Refined inspirations that the Venetian Renaissance offered with its damasks and laces, which are the creative canvas for the Maison’s most beautiful and precious jewellery creations and silver objects. In this boutique, the range of products is total: from high jewellery with a Tulle motif, to the most iconic collections such as Macri, Opera, Ramage, Rombi, Hawaii, Etoilée, Ghirlanda and the Romanza engagement rings, as well as silverware, including the Doge collection, all made from the finest Italian and Venetian craftsmanship. buccellati.com
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PORSCHE STUDIO MANAMA, BAHRAIN Porsche Centre Bahrain launched the new Porsche Studio in Bahrain. Located at Moda Mall, the heart of Bahrain’s luxury shopping district, this unique concept store invites automotive enthusiasts to immerse themselves in the world of Porsche and experience the brand’s iconic vehicles like never before. The Porsche Studio at Moda Mall is not just a showroom; it is a destination where customers can explore and engage with the Porsche brand on a whole new level. The Studio’s innovative design and immersive environment create an unparalleled experience, offering visitors the opportunity to discover the extraordinary craftsmanship, performance, and heritage that define Porsche. At the Porsche Studio, customers have the chance to engage in interactive experiences that further deepen their connection with the Porsche brand. From virtual reality configurators that enable personalized vehicle customization to intimate consultations with Porsche experts, the Studio
offers a tailored and immersive journey that helps customers find their dream Porsche. Porsche’s commitment to exceptional customer service is exemplified at the new Porsche Studio. Knowledgeable and passionate staff are on hand to guide customers through their Porsche journey, offering expert advice, arranging test drives, and providing a seamless purchasing experience. The Studio’s dedicated team is committed to ensuring that every customer receives the highest level of care and attention. Porsche enthusiasts and automotive aficionados are invited to visit the Porsche Studio at Moda Mall, located in the heart of Bahrain’s vibrant luxury shopping district. Immerse yourself in the world of Porsche and discover the perfect vehicle that embodies your passion for driving. The Porsche Studio is open 7 days a week from 10am to 7pm. porsche.com
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ARCHITECTURE
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December 2023
TOD’S SAINT TROPEZ, FRANCE Tod’s celebrates its new boutique in Saint Tropez located in Rue François Sibilli. An intimate space which is the ideal destination for shopping during the holidays. The décor of the Saint Tropez boutique is linear, pared, and elegant. Silver mirrors, Tod’s custom-made vitrines, suspended shelves with travertino marble and details in Tod’s signature Vacchetta leather evoke an easy and relaxed luxury synonymous with both, the Brand and the city. The new boutique houses the men’s and women’s accessory collections including Tod’s iconic products, such as the Di Bag and Bubble Gommino together with a selection of T Timeless bags and and raffia sandals from the current Full Summer collection, together with this season’s Tod’s Riviera slip-on for men. The store also offers the exclusive customization services My Di Bag and My Gommino, to make the Brand’s icons even more special, allowing clients to personalize their very own Di Bag and Gommino, through initials or a special lettering in selected colors. A celebration of artisanal experience and creativity give life to a unique piece. Founded as a small shoe factory in Casette D’Ete, on the Adriatic coast of Italy, over a century ago, Tod’s epitomizes true Italian lifestyle with a focus on craftsmanship. All Tod’s products are entirely Made in Italy, a distinctiveness that has kept clients loyal throughout generations. Refined, understated luxury, impeccable taste and enviable quality are the key signposts to each and every Tod’s piece. tods.com
ARCHITECTURE
VACHERON CONSTANTIN KUWAIT CITY, KUWAIT Vacheron Constantin, the luxury Swiss watchmaking Maison with nearly 270 years of expertise and continuous history, opened its new boutique in Salhiya Complex, one of the top luxury shopping destinations in Kuwait. Located on the ground floor of the Complex, the grand boutique opening will be celebrated with a ribbon-cutting ceremony in the presence of collectors, watch enthusiasts and prospective connoisseurs. The new boutique will showcase the exceptional selection of novelties launched at Watches & Wonders 2023 from September 19th till September 28th, these exquisite creations will be on display, providing a captivating journey into the realm of horological innovation and elegance. Guests who choose to explore the novelties in depth, will have the opportunity to book appointments with the boutique. With a significant expansion, the new boutique will permanently house the complete Vacheron Constantin timepiece collections for men and women from simple to high complications such as the Traditionnelle, Overseas, Patrimony and Egerie. The boutique boasts two exquisite VIP rooms, exemplifying the Maison’s commitment to impeccable service and an elevated experience. Showcasing a completely upgraded modern aesthetic, the boutique captivates visitors upon entry. This inviting space provides a haven for watch enthusiasts to convene, share their passion, and indulge in horological excellence. Vacheron Constantin’s Kuwait boutique stands as a testament to the brand’s dedication to both timeless craftsmanship and contemporary elegance, making it an exceptional contribution to the flourishing luxury industry in Kuwait. vacheron-constantin.com
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December 2023
A Rich Tapestry of Experiences California is a destination that never fails to captivate travelers from all corners of the globe. For those in pursuit of an extraordinary and luxurious experience, the Golden State presents a myriad of options, seamlessly transitioning from the vibrant streets of West Hollywood to the lush vineyards of Temecula Valley and the serene coastal haven of Dana Point.
Starting our journey in West Hollywood, this bustling neighborhood in Los Angeles is synonymous with high-end shopping, gourmet dining, and electrifying nightlife. It’s no surprise that it’s a favorite among celebrities, who frequently grace the local hotspots. Notably, Catch, a renowned seafood restaurant, boasts a celebrity clientele and is often abuzz with paparazzi. Equally iconic is Craig’s, a classic American eatery beloved by celebrities for decades. Fitness enthusiasts can break a sweat at DOGPOUND, a celebrity-favorite gym known for its intense workouts and invigorating atmosphere. For a taste of luxury shopping, Maxfield’s offers a curated selection of designer brands across clothing, accessories, and home goods. To elevate your West Hollywood experience, consider a helicopter tour to marvel at famous landmarks and neighborhoods from a bird’s-eye perspective. Hidden beneath the Sunset Marquis Hotel, West Hollywood harbors a musical treasure – Nightbird Studio. Founded in 1982 by songwriter and producer Jed Leiber, this studio combines
comfort and inspiration for artists. With a focus on acoustics and sound quality, it fosters a relaxed and inviting atmosphere. Over the years, Nightbird Studio has welcomed legendary musicians like the Rolling Stones, Bruce Springsteen, Beyoncé, and Adele, contributing to Grammy Award-winning albums such as “Thriller” by Michael Jackson and “The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill” by Lauryn Hill. A pilgrimage to Nightbird Studio is a must for music aficionados, as it stands as a testament to the rich musical heritage of Los Angeles. Approximately an hour north of San Diego is the enchanting Temecula Valley. This wine region boasts over 50 wineries, graced with warm climates and diverse soils that yield a plethora of grape varieties. Visitors can savor wine tastings, explore wineries, and enjoy picnics amidst scenic vineyards. Furthermore, you can take your visit to new heights with a balloon ride over the rolling vineyards, offering a unique perspective of this wine haven. Horse enthusiasts can also delight in guided horseback riding tours through the vineyards and picturesque countryside.
Dana Point, our next stop, is a coastal gem along Southern California’s shoreline, celebrated for its breathtaking beaches, luxurious resorts, and tranquil ambiance. Dana Strand Beach, Doheny State Beach, and Salt Creek Beach beckon beachgoers with opportunities for swimming, sunbathing, surfing, and fishing. Exclusive resorts like the Ritz-Carlton Laguna Niguel and the Waldorf Astoria Monarch Beach provide guests with top-tier amenities, including fine dining, championship golf courses, and opulent spas. For those yearning to rejuvenate, Dana Point’s natural beauty, luxury accommodations, and serene atmosphere offer the perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life. California is a realm of luxury, catering to diverse tastes and desires. Whether you seek star-studded nightlife in West Hollywood, a wine lover’s paradise in Temecula Valley, or a coastal retreat in Dana Point, the Golden State delivers an unforgettable and opulent experience for all. visitcalifornia.com
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“California is a realm of luxury, catering to diverse tastes and desires.”
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Culture, Nature, AND LUXURY
Overlooking the glittering turquoise waters of the Arabian Gulf, Saadiyat Island Abu Dhabi is a melting pot of unique experiences with something for everyone, from cultural experiences and fine dining to luxury resorts, pristine beaches and roaming wildlife nestled in natural captivating surroundings. Saadiyat Island spans over 2,500 square hectares of natural island and is home to the world’s most famous museums including Louvre Abu Dhabi and the soon-to-open Guggenheim Abu Dhabi, Natural History Museum Abu Dhabi and Zayed National Museum. Manarat Al Saadiyat offers immersive exhibitions, workshops, film screenings and an interactive art studio for budding artists. The island also offers world-class education at NYU Abu Dhabi, which features the NYUAD Arts Center offering performances, workshops and events, and NYUAD Art Gallery, the Gulf’s only university gallery with a program of art exhibitions; and Berklee Abu Dhabi, offering educational programs in music, dance and theatre. Visitors can enjoy ultimate relaxation at one of Abu Dhabi’s most glamorous resorts, offering stretches of idyllic private beaches, a world of dining
options, luxurious hospitality and a vast range of leisure and wellness activities. Home to a diverse collection of wildlife, the island offers visitors a unique opportunity to witness the animals in their natural habitats. Hawksbill turtles nest seasonally on the beach shore, bottlenose dolphins make regular appearances wowing with their playful nature and Arabian gazelles are frequently spotted around the island. So no matter where you are on the island, you’re never alone. Positioned within the UAE’s cosmopolitan capital, Abu Dhabi, comprising a Beach District, Cultural District, Lagoon District and Marina District, Saadiyat Island is just 20 minutes from Abu Dhabi Airport and 60 minutes from Dubai. Jumeirah at Saadiyat Island Resort serves up breathtaking sand dunes lapped by turquoise waters along with rest and relaxation at its spectacular 296 rooms, 70 suites and eight villas. Recognized
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01 Louvre Abu Dhabi 02 Golf at Saadiyat Island 03 Jumeirah at Saadiyat Island 04 The Abrahamic Family House 05 Manarat Al Saadiyat 03
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and awarded by The Oceanic Standard for its revolutionary plastic-free and sustainable initiatives, Jumeirah offers care for every aspect of your well-being, the best spa experiences in the world, sophisticated dining options, and a chance to meet dolphins and turtles…all this with a clean conscience. A beacon of creativity, a union of cultures, a celebration of human stories – this is Louvre Abu Dhabi. The museum’s growing collection spans thousands of years of human history, including prehistoric tools, artefacts, religious texts, iconic paintings and contemporary artworks. Supported by four special exhibitions throughout the year, the museum ensures you will always discover something new. Set in the heart of Abu Dhabi’s cultural hub of Saadiyat Island, Manarat Al Saadiyat invites guests to be inspired while exploring a diverse range of artistic expressions. With its year-round curated exhibitions, film screenings, performances, workshops and dropin studio spaces, the center continually engages with the community. It explores contemporary concepts and ideas that speak to all ages. A beacon for tolerance and understanding, the Abrahamic Family House is a collection of three religious spaces: a mosque, a synagogue and a church sitting in a secular visitor pavilion. Designed by renowned British architect Sir David Adjaye, the house serves as a community for nurturing the values of peaceful co-existence and acceptance among different beliefs, nationalities and cultures. In recognition of its unique offerings, Saadiyat Island Abu Dhabi was crowned “Middle East’s Leading Beach Destination” by the World Travel Awards for the 12th consecutive year. The Middle East’s leading and award-winning beach destination, Saadiyat Island Abu Dhabi promises its guests extraordinary and enriching experiences that will transport them on a profound journey with enchanting natural landscapes, beautiful white sand beaches, thriving wildlife and marine life, luxurious resorts, and a vibrant culture and entertainment scene. saadiyatisland.ae
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Intimacy OF SCALE
December 2023
01 Blake in Venice, 2013, glass 02 Artist Jaume Plensa
Amidst the towering skyscrapers of Manhattan, a serene face emerges from a sea of gray. An ivory resin head, soaring 24 meters above Newport Pier Park, stands as a distinctive presence across from downtown Manhattan. Crafted in 2020 by the acclaimed Spanish artist Jaume Plensa, this monumental sculpture titled ‘Water’s Soul’ remains one of his most expansive public works to date. During its unveiling, the artist remarked that the project asks for silence, urging observers to heed the profound voice of the water. Water, as the source of life, becomes a celebratory motif in “Water’s Soul.” Just a year later, Plensa recreated the sculpture in glass on a smaller, more intimate scale, collaborating with the skilled technicians of Berengo Studio in Murano. Known for playing with dimensions, Plensa’s public sculptures dot various global locations, embracing democratic spaces and fostering dialogue with unrestricted audiences. The shift to glass marked a more intimate scale for the artist, partly driven by practical considerations – crafting an 80-foot sculpture in this delicate material posed significant challenges. Collaborating with Berengo Studio, Plensa explored various styles, from clear cristallo glass to milkwhite lattimo glass and dark opaque black glass. A survey of his explorations reveals that the medium played a pivotal role in his broader inquiries into the human condition. Plensa’s association with Murano dates back to 2010, and his glass artworks, in collaboration with Berengo Studio, have graced numerous exhibitions. From the banks of the Grand Canal in Palazzo Franchetti during the Venice Biennale in 2013 to the gardens of the State Hermitage Museum in Russia in 2019, the Fondazione Berengo has played a crucial role in supporting the installation of Plensa’s grand public sculptures worldwide.
In the 2013 Glasstress exhibition, Plensa presented a poetic hanging sculpture, utilizing letters from William Blake’s poetry to create an impactful installation. Subsequently, in 2015, he ventured into translating his classic portrait busts into glass, exemplified by a large head in dark opaque glass titled “Duna.” However, Plensa found a new dimension in reducing the scale of his work. Among his initial works with Berengo was a cast of his wife’s hands in clear cristallo glass, referred to as “Laura’s Hands” (2011). Despite seeming a departure from his usual themes, this artwork highlights the significance of hands in Plensa’s oeuvre, emphasizing their role in silent communication. In the 2019 Glasstress exhibition, he crafted a triptych of heads titled “See no evil, hear no evil, speak no evil,” each featuring dislocated hands acting out one of the commands. While lacking the grandeur of his larger sculptures, these smaller pieces create a distinct impact. The white lattimo glass mimics white marble, echoing the artist’s larger resin sculptures, creating the illusion that they share a common origin. As Plensa once noted, a piece can have a spiritual as well as a physical scale, and this sentiment resonates in his glass works – physically smaller, yet their influence expands in memory, leaving a lasting impact. jaumeplensa.com
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03 Carlota at State Hermitage Museum 04 See No Evil, Hear No Evil, Speak No Evil, 2018, glass 05 Jaume Plensa at an exhibition
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December 2023
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FOUR SEASONS HOTEL BANGKOK AT CHAO PHRAYA RIVER, THAILAND Make your way to Bangkok’s coveted riverside and discover an urban sanctuary in the city’s creative district. Surrounded by galleries, boutiques, restaurants and cafés, the Hotel – ranked #3 on The World’s 50 Best Hotels List 2023 – is a hub of energy and style. Take in sweeping river views from the outdoor lap and infinity pools, savor inventive cuisine in its collection of restaurants, find solace in one of its green courtyards or simply relax in one of its 299 guest rooms. Rising above the majestic Chao Phraya River in the heart of Bangkok’s Creative District, Four Seasons Hotel Bangkok is designed by the legendary Jean-Michel Gathy. The energetic urban resort puts guests at the centre of Bangkok’s riverside Creative District, a coveted neighbourhood filled with galleries, boutiques and cafés. The Hotel’s airy indoor-outdoor layout is inspired by the rhythms of the river. The magic begins the
moment one arrives, greeted by light-filled open spaces, cascading water pools and a succession of water and plant filled courtyards. Guests take in sweeping river views from the outdoor infinity pools, experience the best of wellness and fitness at the Urban Wellness Centre, discover innovative Thai artworks at the ART Space curated in partnership with the Museum of Contemporary Art (MOCA) Bangkok, and savor award-winning inventive gastronomy at the high-concept restaurants – from riverside Italian lunches to refined Michelin-starred Cantonese dining. BKK Social Club serves bespoke cocktails in a setting that echoes the legendary glamour of Buenos Aires and was featured on the 2022 World’s 50 Best Bars list at #14 and the 2023 Asia’s 50 Best Bars list at #3. The Urban Wellness Centre at Four Seasons Hotel Bangkok officially opened February 1, 2023 and takes a 360-degree customizable approach to
wellness across body (physical and aesthetics), mind (spirituality and mindfulness), and work (movement and function). Whether looking to make a lifestyle change, ramp of a routine, or simply relax, expert instructors, coaches, yogis and therapists are available to help guests achieve their wellbeing goals. Highlighted by a lavish spa suite with its own private bath and indoor garden, plus eight additional treatment rooms, the spa also includes a spacious consultation area with wellness boutique, and relaxation lounges. Additional services are provided at the in-house Gentleman’s Tonic barber shop, A Sense of Beauty, a Salon by Sasha, and nail salon. The fitness offering encompasses a naturally-lit state-of-the-art gym, a dedicated mind and body studio with regular open and private classes, and a 35 metre (115 foot) lap pool. fourseasons.com/bangkok
Luxury Getaways Discover the true meaning of hospitality and experience the ultimate in luxury at these global destinations.
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December 2023
BVLGARI HOTEL ROMA, ITALY The Bulgari Hotel Roma is the second hotel in Italy and 9th of the jewels in the worldwide Bulgari Hotels & Resorts Collection, which currently includes properties in Milan, London, Paris, Dubai, Beijing, Shanghai, Bali, and Tokyo openings schedule in the Maldives and Miami in 2025 and Los Angeles in 2026. Located at number 10 in the very central Piazza Augusto Imperatore in the Campo Marzio area, a stone’s throw from Via Del Corso, the Piazza di Spagna and also the historic Bulgari store on Via Condotti, the hotel is a unique entity in the Maison’s history, because of bulgaria’s unbreakable bond with the city where it was founded nearly 140 years ago, and also the opportunity it provides to express the spirit of the city, describing it with a contemporary twist. The Bulgari Hotel Roma is a celebration of the most refined qualities of Rome, reaching beyond cliches, and is a showcase for the best Italian design and craftsmanship, a great heritage that is celebrated through a myriad of details. The imposing building that houses the hotel – with an overall surface area 14,000 square meters spread over seven floors, of which one is below ground – is a splendid example of rationalist architecture designed by the architect Vittorio Ballio Morpurgo and built between 1936 and 1938, it
was officially opened in 1950 by the Italian Prime Minister Alcide De Gasperi as the headquarters of the INPS, the Italian Social Security agency. It is in a historic location, with strong symbolic value: it faces the Mausoleum of Augustus, the circular 1st century tomb, and the Ara Pacis, the altar which celebrates the period of peace that the emperor managed to impose – the Pax Romana – and which is now preserved within the Ara Pacis Museum designed by Richard Meier. The link between the Bulgari Hotel Roma and the vision and historical time of the emperor Augustus is guaranteed by the presence of the Statue of seated Augustus, an original Roman sculpture, in Pentelic marble, from the Torlonia collection. Positioned in the center of the entrance vestibule, this statue is the first in a series of five, whose restoration has been sponsored by Bulgari and which will alternate in the exhibition. As with all other Bulgari Hotels & Resorts, the design of the interiors at the Bulgari Hotel Roma was entrusted to the Italian architecture and interior design firm ACPV ARCHITECTS Antonio Citterio Patricia Viel which has successfully balanced the aesthetic rigor of the stones used in imperial Rome and the building’s clean architectural through the use of especially rich textures.
The hotel has 114 rooms, many of them suites. They are decorated in four different color palettes – white, yellow, red, and green – and every one of them enjoys a splendid view over Piazza Augusto Imperatore or Via della Frezza, a small street full of Roman charm. Located on the third floor, the Bulgari Suite covers 300 square meters and has a spectacular view of the Mausoleum of Augustus. The Bulgari Hotel Roma offers five different types of catering, all curated by the world famous chef Niko Romito. The recipient of three Michelin stars for Reale, his restaurant in Abruzzi, Romito has been in charge of all culinary experiences for Bulgari Hotels & Resorts since 2017. A true temple of well-being, the Bulgari Spa evokes the atmosphere of ancient Roman baths, with marble columns that rise from the swimming pool and colored glass that creates a warm, soft light. Covering 1500 square meters, this oasis of peace to rebalance body, mind and spirit has nine treatment rooms and a 20-meter covered pool decorated with sparkling mosaics which draw inspiration from motifs used in celebrated Baths of Caracalla. bulgarihotels.com/rome
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December 2023
BANYAN TREE VEYA PHUKET, THAILAND Veya is a place of thriving between yourself, others, and nature. Begin your wellbeing journey in a safe space of both wonderment and reflection where you can discover new possibilities and wisdoms, allowing you to weave them into your own path of wellbeing. Banyan Tree Veya is an intimate 12 one-bedroom Veya Pool Villa resort designed for optimal rest and restoration. At 140 sqm each, the villas offer modern comfort through the lens of contemporary Thai design and architecture, outfitted with luxurious king-sized beds, spacious bathrooms, daybeds for private contemplation, 19 sqm swimming pools, and heated jet pools for relaxation. Veya Pool Villa lets you enter a world of pure comfort and relaxation, allowing you the time to focus on yourself. Veya Restaurant is a place that brings together all who desire to eat well to enjoy conscious and plant-based cuisine that delights the senses and elevates your wellbeing. Veya dishes weave Asian and Mediterranean culinary influences with ingredients that respect the land and are celebrated for their flavor and quality. Contemporary renditions of traditional cuisine form Banyan Tree Phuket’s array of vibrant and varied restaurants and bars, from the first Saffron Thai restaurant to bites overlooking the golf course
and wholesome meals by the pool. During your stay, wellbeing specialists will be on hand to work on a tailored activity program that caters to your unique interests, priorities, and needs. While everyone’s wellbeing journey is different, there are learnings and practices that universally help find balance within the body, mind, and environment. Veya’s approach to wellbeing composes a range of multidisciplinary modalities distilled and clarified into 8 universal pathways toward being well – 8 Pillars of Wellbeing. Your wellbeing journey leads you towards many different paths centered around your body, mind, and surroundings. To help you find balance on these pathways, there’s an allencompassing calendar of accessible workshops, impactful activities, and immersive nature-based experiences centering on somatic practices. The calendar consists of a holistic range of expertled activities, including mindfulness practices, somatic movements, and lifestyle learnings that help discover simple yet effective ways to continue improving wellbeing when you return home. And because you’re in charge of your own journey at Veya, you enjoy the freedom to participate in as many or as few activities as you desire. At Veya, you’re in charge of your own wellbeing
journey. Whether you’re here to rest and reflect or to immerse yourself in a specific wellbeing practice, you have a team of caring specialists and a weekly calendar of over 50 activities to assist you. For those with specific wellbeing goals in mind, there’s a range of curated programs that focus on achieving better sleep, a clearer mind, or improved physical vitality. Each one comprises a consultation, a dietary plan, and a combination of movement activities, learning workshops, and body therapy. The award-winning Banyan Tree Spa offers a curated array of holistic wellbeing treatments that help restore balance in your body and clarity in your mind. Step into tranquil spa villas and let trained therapists work their healing touch to alleviate the stressors of modern-day living. Discover the new range of body works, designed to promote health and combat modern lifestyle challenges. ‘Purposeful Massage’ treatments are crafted with scientific techniques and methods to alleviate issues such as lack of quality sleep, mobility, and postural issues from working long hours, aiding in detox. Consult with spa therapists on the best treatment for you based on your needs for a more satisfying and healing experience. veya.banyantree.com
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SERENE TREATMENTS Take your body and mind on a journey of relaxation with these worldwide destinations of tranquility.
BULGARI HOTEL ROMA, ITALY Truly a temple to well-being, where body, mind and spirit can find a New Balance, the Bulgari spa recreates the atmosphere and experience of the ancient Roman baths. The heart of this 1500 square meter Oasis of peace is the large notation, a 20 meter-pool decorated with glistening mosaics by bisazza, reminiscent of the motifs seen in the celebrated baths of caracalla, which are also a source of inspiration for bulgarie’s Divas dream collection. Eight columns clad in ribbed arabesque marble rise up in the center of the pool, which is fed by two bronze spouts that echo morpurgo’s fountain and that were forged with the same lost wax technique that was used for statues in ancient Greece. The two mosaic niches contain two rare 19th century terracotta statues which represent the allegory of beauty and silence. bulgarihotels.com/rome
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EYLAA WELLBEING MALDIVES A paradise within paradise at Velaa Private Island Maldives, Evelyaa is a world of expertise and excellence, pleasure and performance, where cutting-edge technology meets the ancestral art of touch. Offering the ultimate treatment experience, their programs are uniquely designed for your personal needs, creating a balance of life between body treatments, mindfulness, fitness and nutrition. Eveylaa Wellbeing is a sanctuary of peace where you can reconnect with nature, rejuvenate your body and relax your mind. Using natural and organic ingredients, they provide a fresh take on healing therapies within a location of resounding beauty. velaaprivateisland.com
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December 2023
ULTIMA COURCHEVEL BELVÉDÈRE WELLNESS, FRANCE In a setting like no other, nature and wellness seamlessly align creating a unique space for relaxation and recovery. At Ultima Courchevel Belvédère, you can experience the wonders of the mountain both on and off the slopes with breathing views surroundings you. Each winter season features carefully designed treatments in partnership with Swiss Perfection - to elevate your wellbeing to its optimum and aid your ability on the mountain. Treatments are tailored to your body’s needs by world-leading professionals. Ultima Courchevel Belvédère takes wellness to new heights. With its idyllic location on the edge of the La Rosière Forest only moments from the decadent Courchevel 1850, the focus is both holistic and indulgent. ultimacollection.com
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December 2023
LAGUNA PHUKET, THAILAND Promising guests an array of spa experiences across its several hotels, Laguna Phuket is a paradise for those seeking tranquility. Among its numerous offerings, the luxury spa at Banyan Tree Phuket exudes an aura of absolute privacy and incorporates natural Thai ingredients into treatments. The wide variety of treatments cater to your wellness needs and help you restore your peace of mind. Luxuriate with traditionally inspired and holistic approach to wellness. Banyan Tree Veya Phuket is a haven for wellbeing. This intimate 12-villa resort invites you on a journey of self-discovery and restoration. The resort’s 8 Pillars of Wellbeing guide your unique journey, complemented by a diverse calendar of workshops and activities. These are just some of the spa highlights from Laguna Phuket’s hotels, where guests can indulge in rejuvenating experiences, immersing themselves in luxurious wellness offerings amid idyllic surroundings. lagunaphuket.com
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REFINED TASTE
Experience a culinary journey with award-winning and critically acclaimed restaurants from around the world.
GUNAYDIN ADLIYA, BAHRAIN Legendary Turkish Steak & Kebab House, Günaydın, welcomes you with a slice of Istanbul, elegantly situated on the ground floor of the Terminal Building in the heart of Bahrain’s food district, Adliya. It occupies a hefty and deserved 1,000 square meters and is now home to a kitchen full of Turkish master chefs, butchers, and bakers, with up to 40 years of experience. Upon entering the towering doors of Günaydın Bahrain, diners are greeted with fresh meat cabinets and butchers ready to explain the outstanding selection of specially aged meat and traditional Turkish recipes. The beef, tested by Günaydın’s meat experts, is the highest-grade, world-famous Halal American Black Angus, flown in exclusively for Günaydın on a weekly basis (chilled, never frozen). Additionally, the Arabian Syrian Nuaimi Lamb, the most expensive, rarest, and highest quality, is freshly butchered in Bahrain exclusively for Günaydın. Specialty Turkish cold cuts, cheeses, spices, dry fruits, and Turkish ice cream, along with other ingredients, are imported directly from Turkey. gunaydinbahrain.com
December 2023
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PUYA – TACOS DE PUEBLA NEW YORK, US The Puya-Tacos de Puebla eatery concept draws inspiration from the traditional Mexican kitchen and the outdoor courtyard of the family home. where large families gather to cook together for the holidays. The main purpose was to recreate these feelings of intimacy and liveliness, while designing a sleeker space that would work as a counter eatery in a mall like environment like Rockefeller Center. The dimmable LED lighting has a warm color temperature and it is placed and focused so that it is uneven on the walls and on the floor, thus purposely trying to achieve an intimate feeling, even if the space is located in the Rockefeller Center Concourse. The walls are finished with a rough stucco texture like the hood, to confer a feeling of thickness. Puya is the name of a famous Mexican hot pepper. Used widely in Mexico, it is difficult to find elsewhere, probably due to its substitution by other more common hot peppers such as the guajillo. However, the puya pepper is unequaled for its aroma. With a characteristic fruity taste which sets it apart from all other hot peppers; a taste which always recalls home to Mexicans. This authentic Mexican hot pepper, so tasty and versatile in the kitchen, is the inspiration for the restaurant’s tacos, those of the authentic popular tradition. puyatacos.com
DINING
YU TING YUAN BANGKOK, THAILAND Savor authentic Cantonese cuisine in a dramatic ambience at Bangkok’s only Michelin-starred Cantonese restaurant. Watch the chefs prepare Peking duck and dim sum in the show kitchen, or look out the floor-to-ceiling windows to take in the gorgeous backdrop – lush gardens and a shimmering reflection pond, sun-lit by day and illuminated at night. Chef Tommy Cheung’s lifelong dedication to his craft is rooted in his early experiences in Hong Kong’s vibrant culinary scene, inspired by his family’s rich background in the industry. From humble beginnings as a trainee at a local restaurant, he honed his skills and rose through the ranks, working at renowned establishments including the two-Michelin-starred Yan Toh Heen in Hong Kong before holding the position of Executive Chef at Ya Ge, a one-Michelinstarred restaurant in Taipei, Taiwan. At Yu Ting Yuan, Chef Cheung elevates Cantonese cuisine, highlighting the authentic flavors and the true culinary essence of the region. fourseasons.com/bangkok
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Personalization and Performance Genesis announced its vision for the Middle Eastern region with its personalization and performance projects at the “Distinctly Yours” event, held in Dubai. The event marked a significant milestone for the brand in the region, demonstrating its strong commitment to delivering a hyper-personalized and unparalleled luxury experience for its discerning clientele. Under the creative vision of Luc Donckerwolke, Chief Creative Officer, attendees experienced the unveiling of two One of One cars, marking the first public showcase of the brand’s bespoke program. In addition to the exclusive One of One models, Donckerwolke also revealed three performancebased projects: the GV80 Coupe Concept, G80 Performance, and X Gran Berlinetta Concept. These cars embody the fusion of emotion and dynamics, each representing varying iterations of the brand’s design philosophy of “Athletic Elegance.” The event brought together Genesis’ partners, VIPs, and media under the concept of “Distinctly Yours,” providing an immersive experience highlighting the brand’s dedication to the region while presenting its direction for personalization and performance. The “One of One” name originates from the art scene, which refers to art pieces and collectibles issued as a single, unique edition. Genesis applies the same concept, making each One of One car an
original piece that can be perceived as the most prestigious representation of Genesis. Genesis first developed the program concept as part of its progression to design authentic and original experiences for its customers, aiming to create a hyper-personalized service that customers could experience beyond the car. The first option allows for a fully personalized vehicle, meticulously tailored to individual preferences. The second option is the special edition offering, where each edition is exclusively crafted to embody the brand’s philosophy as derived from various sources of inspiration-such as specific regions, artists, and events. These special editions represent the brand’s reinterpretation of specific themes while ensuring a harmonious blend of external influence with Genesis designs. Immediately following the unveiling of the One of One models, Donckerwolke switched gears to the three performance-based projects-all of which were in the energetic Magma color to denote the brand’s vibrant theme. All three models were marked with “Designed by Genesis” to signify the brand’s pride in introducing its high-performance vision. genesis.com
December 2023
“These pieces attract a higher value
because they are one-of-a-kind editions with no reproductions.”
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December 2022
Mercedes-Maybach EQS SUV With the Mercedes-Maybach EQS 680 SUV, the legendary brand is presenting its first all-electric series model. It is based on the technology of the EQS SUV from Mercedes-EQ and combines it with the exclusivity of Maybach – in line with Karl Maybach’s maxim: “What is good must also be beautiful.” The special exterior with an upright Mercedes star on the hood and a striking black panel front, which carries the specific Maybach radiator grille into the age of electromobility, ensures an unmistakable appearance. The optional two-tone paintwork is also typical of the brand. Thanks to exquisite materials, perfect craftsmanship, and exclusive details, the spacious interior offers a holistic comfort experience with a cocooning effect. With its consistent interpretation of sophisticated luxury, the Mercedes-Maybach EQS SUV sets the new benchmark in the allelectric top-end luxury SUV segment. Mercedes-Maybach enriches the dynamic purpose design of the EQS SUV with exclusive elements that give it its very own character. The Mercedes star sits enthroned on the hood, defining the status. The front is characterized by the
brand-typical black panel with vertical, chromeplated trim strips in a three-dimensional depth look. The large black panel is smoothly closed for the first time. The high-tech element for the radar sensors is fully integrated and no longer visible. Chrome-plated, filigree slats can also be found on the air intake of the bumper. The classic MAYBACH lettering is discreetly incorporated into a chrome-plated decorative strip, which forms a unit with the continuous light strip of the standard DIGITAL LIGHT headlights. The Maybach pattern with several small brand emblems can also be found in trim parts of the side bumper. DIGITAL LIGHT welcomes and says goodbye to the driver with a special light show. As a further greeting, an animated projection of the Maybach pattern shines in all four doors. At the rear, the rear lights underline the exclusive character of a continuous light strip with a two-part helix. The lights are animated across the entire width. There are also chrome trim elements on the tailgate, on the rear apron, and on the spoiler lip, as well as the MAYBACH lettering. The special appearance of the Mercedes-
Maybach EQS SUV also includes the brand-typical two-tone paintwork with a filigree pinstripe. It is applied by hand according to the highest quality criteria and is available in five color combinations: high-tech silver/obsidian black, high-tech silver/ nautical blue, obsidian black/selenite grey, obsidian black/kalahari gold and velvet brown/ onyx black. The Mercedes-Maybach EQS SUV is the first model from Mercedes-Benz AG to be fitted with vegetable-tanned leather. Coffee bean shells are used as tanning agents. The water used for tanning is conducted in a closed circuit and flows back into natural bodies of water after recycling. The fat-liquoring agents used in tanning are also exclusively plant-based. The Mercedes-Maybach EQS SUV is the marque’s first all-electric, full-size luxury SUV. The lounge character promises luxurious travel at the highest level. Together with the innovative, progressive SUV proportions, it aims to redefine the SUV luxury of the future. mercedes-benz.com
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December 2023
Lamborghini Revuelto Lamborghini Bahrain, managed by Behbehani Brothers W.L.L, launched the highly anticipated Lamborghini Revuelto in an exclusive event held at the Lamborghini Showroom Bahrain. This momentous occasion comes with marque’s 60th anniversary, marking a new chapter in Lamborghini’s legacy of innovation and unparalleled performance. The Revuelto, Lamborghini’s first-ever HighPerformance Electrified Vehicle (HPEV), represents a groundbreaking fusion of electrification and super sports car excellence. Setting a new benchmark in performance, on-board technology, and driving pleasure, the Revuelto pushes the boundaries of automotive engineering. At the heart of the Revuelto lies a revolutionary powertrain that delivers an astonishing 1015 CV total, harnessing the combined power of a brandnew 12-cylinder internal combustion engine, three high-density electric motors, and a groundbreaking transversal dual clutch e-gearbox. This innovative hybrid system amplifies performance and elevates driving emotions to unprecedented levels, redefining the thrill of the Lamborghini experience. As a symbol of Lamborghini’s commitment to sustainability, the Revuelto showcases the power of hybridization in reducing environmental impact without compromising on power and performance. This transformative technology paves the way for a future where high-performance supercars coexist harmoniously with responsible energy consumption. The exclusive launch event held at the Lamborghini Showroom Bahrain provided a platform for automotive enthusiasts and esteemed guests to witness the unveiling of this engineering marvel firsthand. The event was a testament to Lamborghini’s dedication to delivering exceptional
experiences to its discerning clientele. Revuelto Roberto brings the future of Lamborghini design to the road today. It stays constant to the exclusive Lamborghini design DNA but establishes an entirely new stylistic language. It links with the iconic and legendary Lamborghini V12 cars of the past throughout the new shape, while the new proportions opened the door towards the future. While Revuelto delivers a quantum leap in an all-new car design, both externally and internally, the inspiration of previous V12 legends is still clear. Starting with the 1971 Countach prototype and its perfect proportions developed on a single longitudinal line, this car was responsible for creating a pure and essential style contextualized in the space age era. It defined the Lamborghini V12 super sports car DNA and introduced one of the most distinctive Lamborghini V12 elements the vertically opening scissor doors which contribute to creating the character of Revuelto. The new car also defers to the inimitable proportions of the Diablo and the floating blade on the rear Fender, while the muscularity and inclined front of the Murcielago is evident. With the Revuelto, Lamborghini launches a new space race, ushering in a design language that adapts to the challenges imposed by electrification, and presaging the shapes and proportions of super sports cars of the near future. The design is inspired by aerospace elements, characterized by sculpted surfaces encompassed by two lines that start from the front and embrace the cabin and engine, tapering down to the hexagon you know shaped exhausts. lamborghini.com
AUTOMOTIVE
186
December 2023
Porsche Cayenne E3 II Porsche Centre Bahrain announced the muchanticipated launch of the all-new Porsche Cayenne. This remarkable SUV sets new benchmarks in performance, luxury, and innovation, redefining the driving experience for distinguished customers in the Kingdom of Bahrain. The new Porsche Cayenne delivers exhilarating performance, combining power and agility to create an unrivalled driving experience. With a range of high-performance gasoline engines, electrified hybrid options, and future-for-ward electric models, the Cayenne offers a level of performance that surpasses expectations. From lightning-fast acceleration to precise handling, the Cayenne showcases the engineering prowess that Porsche is renowned for. Crafted with meticulous attention to detail, the new Cayenne exudes luxury and sophistication. Its exterior design boasts a dynamic presence, featuring sleek lines, sculpted contours, and iconic Porsche styling cues. Inside the cabin, the Cayenne offers a sanctuary of opulence, where premium materials, exquisite craftsmanship, and cuttingedge technology seamlessly blend to create a truly elevated driving environment.
The all-new Cayenne is equipped with stateof-the-art technology that enhances connectivity, convenience, and driving pleasure. The Porsche Communication Management (PCM) system seamlessly integrates with the driver, providing intuitive access to an array of features and functions. From advanced driver-assistance systems to innovative infotainment options, the Cayenne ensures a connected and immersive driving experience. Porsche Centre Bahrain prioritizes safety, and the new Cayenne reflects this commitment. With its robust construction and an array of advanced safety features, the Cayenne provides peace of mind on every journey. From adaptive cruise control to lane-keeping assist, the Cayenne offers a comprehensive suite of safety technologies that prioritize the protection of occupants. The new model is the third electrified engine variant within the series and is positioned between the Cayenne E-Hybrid and the Cayenne Turbo E-Hybrid. Focusing on a fine balance between everyday usability and performance, the S E-Hybrid available in SUV and SUV Coupé body variants is a well-suited addition to the powertrain range. The hybrid technology of the new Cayenne,
comprehensively revised earlier this year, also provides this model variant with a further improved electric range and short charging times due to its intelligent energy management. The new model features a revised three-litre V6 turbo engine with 260 kW/353 PS (Cayenne S E-Hybrid: Fuel consumption combined (WLTP) 1.7 – 1.4 l/100 km, CO₂ emissions combined (WLTP) 39 – 31 g/km, Electric power consumption* combined (WLTP) 31.7 – 29.1 kWh/100 km, Electric range combined (WLTP) 71 – 78 km, Electric range in town (WLTP) 79 – 90 km) is paired with a 130 kW (176 PS) electric motor. Together they achieve a system output of 382 kW (519 PS) and a maximum system torque of 750 Nm. The high output potential is reflected in the driving performance. The Cayenne S E-Hybrid accelerates from 0 to 100 in 4.7 seconds and has a top speed of 263 km/h. Visually, the Cayenne S E-Hybrid also integrates seamlessly within the existing model range. It has the 20-inch Cayenne S wheels as standard and is equipped with an exhaust system with two twin tailpipes in brushed stainless steel. porsche.com/middle-east/_bahrain
AUTOMOTIVE
188
December 2023
Volkswagen Golf R The all-new Golf R boasts impressive stability and strength, making it a standout choice for Dubai’s streets. It delivers sheer power with sports-tuned suspension and 4MOTION all-wheel drive which ensures the driver both control and comfort. With a robust 2.0-litre 320 HP TSI petrol engine, the all-new Golf R releases power exactly when and where you need it. The all-new Golf R is not only an elite member of the model series but also the star of the R-brand. The all-new Golf R is an unmistakable icon fully loaded with performance features. Along with an exclusive design and equipment, this highly dynamic car represents its class’s gold standard of technology. In addition, the all-new Golf R is the first Golf to be launched with a new all-wheel drive system: 4MOTION with R-Performance Torque Vectoring and selective wheel torque control on the rear axle. This innovative drive significantly increases the agility of the new Golf R, particularly when cornering. As a result, drivers will get precise and neutral handling, optimum traction characteristics and exceptional agility. In other words: maximum driving pleasure. Distinctive exterior features of the new Golf R
model include; matt chrome mirrors and R logo floor projection when the car door is opened and closed. The Golf R ride height is 20 millimeters lower than the standard Golf. Three color options include Lapiz Blue Metallic (a signature color for R), Pure White or Deep Black Pearl Effect. The blue brake calipers give the optional 19inch alloy wheels a distinctive touch. The wheel options include: 19-inch “Adelaide” alloy wheels, 18-inch “Jerez” alloy wheels, or 19-inch “Estoril” alloy wheels (black with burnished finish or black). Inside the Golf R, updates include the customized and enhanced premium sports seats, a new specially designed ergonomic DSG, and an R button that allows quick access to different driving modes. In addition, the Golf R is equipped with the latest technology, including a 10-inch infotainment system and digital cockpit, which has been updated for the Golf R. The new Golf R can also be ordered with an optional Performance Package. The R Performance Package includes a larger, prominent rear spoiler for extra downforce on the rear axle, 19-inch wheels in the Estoril design (also available in complete black finish), and two additional
driving profiles, “Special” (Nürburgring mode) and “Drift”. The driving profile selection can be rapidly accessed by pressing the R button on the steering wheel. In addition to this, you can have the adaptive chassis control as an optional feature, and for the first time in the Middle East region, the new Golf R also offers an optional Akrapovic titanium exhaust system, which is seven kilograms lighter than the standard system and controls the engine sound. Experience a new side of the race track in the premium sport seats with built-in head restraints. The upholstery, which is available in optional Nappa leather, sets an exclusive tone, combining both elegance and sportiness. Be it the graceful Carbon Grey décor, brushed stainless steel pedals, cooling function and foot rests, or background lighting – the interior invites you to experience intuitive performance. In the bustling streets of Dubai, the all-new Golf R is a symbol of stability and strength, embodying the perfect fusion of power, performance, and technology. volkswagen-me.com
AUTOMOTIVE
190
December 2023
Next-Gen Ford Everest The Next-Gen Ford Everest makes its Middle East debut for the first time ever, blending adventureready capability with exceptional comfort and customer-focused technology in a rugged, refined, and fun-to-drive SUV. Durrah decided to test its impressive ability to tackle the rugged terrain of Oman. Engineered to excite, the Next-Gen Ford Everest has been built for the adventurous – with capability at its core. Inside, premium levels of craftsmanship have created a quiet and refined sanctuary for up to seven, while class-leading technology and safety features offer driver and passengers comfort and peace of mind on every journey. Three trims of the Next-Gen Ford Everest were presented at the reveal; XLS, XLT and Limited. A range of different variants and models will be available, depending on the market, to meet the needs of Ford customers. Everest’s wider track and longer wheelbase enabled designers to create a more progressive, muscular appearance. Ford’s global design DNA is reflected in the C-clamp headlamps and strong horizontal upper grille bar. The front end also has a mix of horizontal and vertical elements which add to the stable appearance. On the sides, there
is a strong shoulder line front to back, while the wide track width results in a dramatic swell over the wheels, delivering a strong and modern look. Everest’s sense of spaciousness is amplified by the full-width coast-to-coast instrument panel and center console with dual cupholder recesses, plus dash-mounted ‘pop-out’ cupholders for frontseat occupants. The XLT and Limited trims are equipped with integrated wireless charging, while all series receive a svelte new leather trimmed e-Shifter, and an electric parking brake. In addition to a more refined and comfortable interior, Ford focused on incorporating the latest connectivity and technology features into the Next-Gen Ford Everest. It comes with an 8inch digital instrument panel that replaces the traditional analogue cluster, in addition to large, high-resolution portrait 10.1-inch or best-in-class 12-inch touchscreens. Next-Gen Ford Everest is loaded with Ford’s latest SYNC® 4A1 system, which comes customer-ready with its voiceactivated communications, entertainment, and information systems. Depending on the market, the Next-Gen Ford Everest gives customers a choice of two engines to suit their lifestyles. Starting with Ford’s proven,
2.3L EcoBoost® Turbo petrol engine, mated to an efficient 10-speed SelectShift automatic which delivers Best-in-Class 296HP power and 420Nm of torque (more than any competitor V6). Additionally, a 2.0L Single-Turbo diesel comes standard with a 6-speed automatic, supplying 168HP and 405Nm of torque providing strong low speed torque, great low speed throttle response and optimum fuel economy to meet the needs of the simplest to the toughest customer. With almost 20 years of history, the Everest nameplate has built a formidable reputation as a safe, trusted, capable, family SUV, winning a multitude of awards across the globe. A 50mm increase in Next-Gen Ford Everest’s track helps deliver a more controlled ride on-road, while tweaks to damper settings allowed the team to inject more fun and control into Everest’s handling, both on- and off-road. The Next-Gen Ford Everest is a true adventure companion that’s equally at home on the rugged roads of Oman. With its adaptability, advanced features, and rich heritage, it’s a versatile SUV that’s ready to take on any terrain. ford.com
BOOK REVIEW
192
December 2023
MOROCCO: KINGDOM OF LIGHT Published by Assouline, ‘Morocco: Kingdom of Light’ celebrates the authenticity of the country. Ever since Delacroix first journeyed to Morocco in the early nineteenth century, the Moroccan Kingdom “Kingdom of Light,” in honor of its magical color variations-has been an endless source of inspiration for artists and aesthetes alike.
Marrakech, Essaouira, Agadir, Casablanca, the Atlas Mountains… This volume takes readers on a journey through the entire kingdom, stopping at more than a dozen cities. Featuring exclusive imagery from Oliver Pilcher, Morocco, Kingdom of Light celebrates the country’s joyous spirit and the beauty of its land through the prism of light. Accompanied by an extensive, in-depth introduction by Moroccan-born writer and musician Ariel Wizman, this book is a true testament to the rich culture and history of Morocco that highlights the beauty of its s treets, medinas and palaces along the way. Ariel Wizman is a renowned Moroccan-born writer, musician and actor. After working for publications such as Actuel, Vogue Homme and 20 Ans, he produced an array of programs for French radio channel France Culture. A former journalisthost at national TV channel Canal+, he is now a full-time writer and entrepreneur. Since 2020, he has been the co-founder of Miniso, a Chinese retailer and variety store specializing in household and consumer goods. assouline.com
BOOK REVIEW
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December 2023
MOROCCAN DECORATIVE ARTS Published by Assouline, ‘Moroccan Decorative Arts’ documents photographer Philippe Saharoff ’s journey of capturing the most exclusive collections of arts and crafts in each city that he visits. From the leather of Marrakech to the woodwork of Essaouira, this volume captures the extraordinary palette of colors and sensations visitors can discover in the country.
Over more than three hundred pages, the arts of zellige, pottery, metal, jewelry or plaster are depicted at length, among other local crafts, ancestral traditions and decorative treasures that have been acclaimed for centuries. Featuring exclusive photographs of the collection of His Majesty the King Mohammed VI, Moroccan Decorative Arts is the ultimate compendium on Moroccan craftsmanship. Philippe Saharoff specializes in travel and lifestyle photography. He has spent his entire career traveling around the world discovering the best in design, arts, and crafts. A regular contributor of Madame Figaro and several international editions of ELLE Decor, he is an expert of Moroccan arts and a true connoisseur of the country, having reported on it at length over the last thirty years. He is the author of the reference volumes Traditional Islamic Craft in Moroccan Architecture, as well as Paris and Its Lights, among others assouline.com
MUST HAVE - MEN
My Wish List The latest and most exclusive luxury items for men
Louis Vuitton Malle Vestiaire The Malle Vestiaire is a new addition to the “wardrobe” universe of Louis Vuitton. Inspired by the Malle Sneakers in terms of shape, this new model includes Hardsided traditional codes: wooden slats, cotton straps and malletage, but revisited in a modern way. louisvuitton.com
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December 2023
cent.ldn Basketball 2.0 Candle The cent.ldn basketball 2.0 candle is a “first of its kind” and is the artist’s imitation of the Official Game Ball. This candle was designed to bring players and fans a unique spin on home decor. Hand-poured & crafted in London, this candle is the perfect addition to your work or living space. centldn.com
Fornasetti Ashtray Tema e Variazioni n.21 The face of opera singer Lina Cavalieri, reinterpreted by Piero Fornasetti, embellishes this hand-decorated porcelain ashtray. Part of the iconic Tema e Variazioni series: the Ashtray Tema e Variazioni n.21 is an everyday object that becomes a true collector’s item. fornasetti.com
Buccellati Cufflinks In a series that reinterprets century-old techniques, Buccellati proposes the traditional cufflinks: geometric shapes, essential lines, all enhanced with small, round, colored central stones. Timeless and stylish, they are the perfect complement to a well-tailored suit and shirt. buccellati.com
Dior And Rimowa Carry-On Luggage The DIOR AND RIMOWA carry-on luggage is an essential companion for the frequent traveler. The ultra-lightweight aluminum case ensures effortless travel. And in its gradient blue Dior Oblique aluminum, the Dior Oblique motif instantly stands out and lends an iconic finishing touch. dior.com
MUST HAVE - MEN
198
December 2023
Hublot Big Bang E Uefa Champions League Gen3 From your wrist, and on the UEFA Champions League dial, you will automatically enter “match mode” once the match begins. ‘Hublot Loves Football’ has become the slogan at the world’s biggest sporting events and the Big Bang e UEFA Champions League Gen3 high-tech timepiece is a testament to that. hublot.com
Evo Blp-1 black panther sonic touchscreen toothbrush Black Panther’s fictional land of Wakanda is filled with technological innovations. Drawing ornamental design influence from the comics, Evo imagines what toothbrushes there might look like. The brush arrives with an embossed travel case, charging base, and extra head inside a collector’s edition box. blp.getevo.net
Infinite Machine P1 Electric Scooter Designed for urban commuters, this radical new personal electric vehicle features a futuristic silhouette made from bold aluminum panels. Pairing cutting-edge industrial design with breakthrough performance and utility, the Vespa-like fully electric scooter design resembles Tesla’s highly anticipated concept. infinitemachine.com
Montblanc Happy Holidays 2023: Unlocking the Magic of a Winter Adventure Limited to just 100 pieces worldwide, Montblanc introduces a limited-edition Happy Holidays 2023 Gift Set curated to help with preparations for this special season. The products inside have been thoughtfully chosen to create shared moments of delight with loved ones as the winter holidays approach. montblanc.com
Red Bull Racing Racing Rbs#01 Escooter Developed by World Champion aerodynamics engineers over two years, the Red Bull Racing RBS#01 eScooter is crafted with the same care and precision as the team’s race cars. Built on a full carbon fiber chassis and delivering a top speed of 20 mph, the paint job completes the Formula One-inspired details. raceescooter.com
Louis Vuitton X Akrivia Lvrr-01 Chronographe À Sonnerie Embodying the essence of both Maisons, the LVRR-01 is a true statement in the watch industry. Powered by the movement developed by Atelier Akrivia in a redesigned Louis Vuitton Tambour case, the magnificent architecture and decoration of this timepiece is to be admired on the wrist at all times. louisvuitton.com
MUST HAVE - MEN
200
Ming LW.01 Manual
Saint Laurent Downtown
Several years in the making, MING presents the world’s lightest mechanical wristwatch: the MING LW.01 Manual. This time-piece is a featherweight 8.8 grams and for the watch head only, making it the perfect choice for those who look to both wearable and practical features.
This new item in the luggage category takes up all the classic masculine codes with its metallic finishes, adjustable buckle tabs, and zipped compartments. Saint Laurent’s iconic bag, the Downtown, is available in black lambskin in nickel oxide hardware.
ming.watch
ysl.com
Transparent Turntable In addition to taking its moniker quite literally in products like its Speaker, Transparent also builds them to be upgradeable and repairable. Their Turntable is no exception. It’s crafted from aluminum and tempered glass, staying true to the brand’s aesthetic while adopting a completely modular design. transpa.rent
Bowers & Wilkins Zeppelin McLaren Edition Celebrating the long-standing, award-winning partnership between Bowers & Wilkins and McLaren Automotive, the Zeppelin McLaren Edition wireless speaker fuses McLaren-inspired styling with the highperformance wireless Bowers & Wilkins sound. Best-in-class sound meets iconic McLaren design. bowerswilkins.com
December 2023
MUST HAVE - WOMEN
My Wish List The latest and most exclusive luxury items for women
Fabergé x Gemfields Introducing two new additions to their popular ‘In Bloom’ limitededition objet d’art collection, the Fabergé x Gemfields Anemone and Cactus Surprise Objet are destined to become future heirlooms. The iconic pieces celebrate the beauty of nature and the past, present, and future of Fabergé. faberge.com
202
December 2023
Van Cleef & Arpels Perlée secret pendant watch Reinterpreting the aesthetics of the collection, the Perlée™ secret pendant watch combines jewelry know-how and watchmaking expertise to offer time an elegant setting. In keeping with the Maison’s long-standing tradition of secret watches, the rotating motif reveals the hidden dial in a unique manner. vancleefarpels.com
Assouline Travel From Home Mini Scented Candle Set Tropical paradise, winter wonderland or wild escape: Assouline’s Travel From Home candle collection takes you on an inspiring journey while adding a whiff of travel to your come together in a refined presentation box. This set of three individual mini-size candles provides the perfect daily escape. assouline.com
Gucci Ski Goggles A ski mask fit for glossy mountain peaks, with sporty details and technical features. The shiny pink injected frame here is decorated with the name of the House and a green and red Web strap. A yellow lens completes this style with a vibrant logo feel, bolstering 100% UVA/UVB protection. gucci.com
Dyson Humdinger™ Engineered for everyday quick handheld cleans, the most powerful, lightweight handheld vacuum traps 99.99% of microscopic particles with no loss of suction. Coming with three specialized cleaning tools, the 20-minute run time gives users the option of quick and effective cleans for speedy spill clearance. dyson.com
MUST HAVE - WOMEN
204
December 2023
Dolce & Gabbana Set 2 Champagne Glasses A bold statement with unmistakable lines: the DG Logo is the perfect synthesis of the brand’s history and identity, here featured as the protagonist of this elegant and meticulously decorated champagne glass. A versatile accent for the most sophisticated mise en place, the glass features a logo on the exterior. dolcegabbana.com
Luxury baby gifts from Sophie La Girafe, BIBS, Stokke and Ergobaby This shortlist of luxury must-have baby items are essential for both seasoned and new mums. Find gorgeous fragrance for babies and children by Sophie La Girafe. BIBS teams up with Liberty London to create a bespoke design range of pacifiers, bibs and accessories. A leading US baby carrier brand that celebrates its 20th anniversary year, Ergobaby carriers come in timeless style and ultimate comfort. Bringing a playful look and ingenious function, the new Stokke Nomi Chair offers extraordinary style and unique flexibility for homes at mealtimes. mapyr.com
Globe-Trotter Carry-On - 4 Wheels The vibrant new Pop Colour collection takes you on a journey that transcends seasons. Parrot Green, Flamingo Pink and Pastel Blue are three new colourways that embody a different element of travel, featuring what has become one of the most recognisable suitcases in the world. globe-trotter.com
Van Cleef & Arpels Planétarium automaton Distinguished by its impressive dimensions, the Planétarium automaton presents the Sun and many of the planets of its system visible from the Earth: each interpreted in a combination of materials never seen before. The heavenly body moves at its genuine speed of rotation, bringing a fairy-tale poetry to the ensemble. vancleefarpels.com
Judith Leiber Dragon’s Egg Flight Going back to the beginning, the 60th Anniversary Collector’s Edition two colorful twin dragons intertwine with wrapping artwork around the silver egg, which creates an elegant, seamless design. Crystal-adorned and complete with a navy silk tassel, it is a daring, yet cheerful modern classic. judithleiber.com
Fornasetti Cylindrical lamp base Palloni Its cylindrical shape allows Fornasetti’s imagination to create surprising decorative effects in which the shapes follow one another endlessly. The balloon motif makes this handsilkscreened, lacquered metal base an eyecatcher in any setting. This table lamp is the result of unique craftsmanship. fornasetti.com
Louis Vuitton Baby Wardrobe The Baby Wardrobe is a reinterpretation of one of the most iconic products of the Maison: the Wardrobe, created in 1875. The Baby Wardrobe is the perfect trunk to accompany a lifetime, it can be gifted for a birth and kept all lifelong thanks to its versatility. louisvuitton.com
MUST HAVE - WOMEN
206
December 2023
MCM x BE@RBRICK
Montblanc Muses Maria Callas Special Edition
Inspired by classic House iconography, the MCM x BE@RBRICK figurine is a playful ode to a beloved heritage mascot: the Berlin Bear. Featuring a lustrous white chrome shade with a metallic design and a glossy finish, the renowned bear figurines present a fresh take on MCM’s German heritage.
The Montblanc Muses writing instrument collection is dedicated to the women who have left an indelible mark on culture and society, one that can still be felt today. The thoughtful design details of each edition reflect each muse’s unique characteristics and her extraordinary legacy.
mcmworldwide.com
montblanc.com
Molton Brown Advent Calendar Begin a most marvelous countdown with the highly coveted Advent Calendar. Featuring 24 beloved Molton Brown icons, distinctive Fragrances and delectable new discoveries, many surprises are eagerly waiting to be discovered behind glorious golden doors. moltonbrown.com
Pomellato Scarabeo di Pomellato Unearthing Mother Nature’s most exquisite treasures, Scarabeo di Pomellato is a capsule collection of 31 luxurious rings, each in the shape of a scarab beetle, carved from a variety of gemstones. Subtle, unusual and exquisitely refined, Scarabeo di Pomellato perfectly embodies the Milanese concept of luxury. pomellato.com
D I S C OV E R R E A L I TA L I A N C O F F E E I N A L L I T S F O R M S
FINAL PEARL
208
Formula 1 Gulf Air Bahrain Bahrain Grand Prix Festival City Bahrain International Circuit (BIC), ‘The Home of Motorsport in the Middle East’, is set to celebrate its 20th anniversary as the opening round of the season and its first-ever Saturday night race. The Formula 1 Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix opening the season in a race weekend taking place from 29th February until 2nd March. The race will take place on Saturday evening at the request of F1, in order to allow for necessary logistics for the second race of the season in Saudi Arabia, which is also scheduled as a Saturday race. To coincide with the calendar announcement, BIC has launched its first ever Summer Early Bird, a chance for fans to pick up their F1 2024 tickets with discounts of up to 20% for its landmark celebration of 20 years in F1. The 2024 calendar will comprise 24 races, with the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix taking place the week after Bahrain, with the season concluding in Abu Dhabi on 8 December. In 2004, Bahrain became the first country in the region to host Formula 1. Over the last 17 years, the circuit has delivered some of the iconic moments of modern-day F1, from the duel in the desert in 2014 to the thrilling opener of 2021, Bahrain consistently delivers a spectacle under the desert night sky. Located in the heart of the Sakhir desert, Bahrain International Circuit is a unique and contemporary sports and entertainment venue that is synonymous with the highest levels of global motorsport. Featuring five different track layouts, the circuit first saw life in 2004 when the first ever Formula 1 Grand Prix took place in the country, making it the first-ever track in the Middle East to host the Formula 1 World Championship. Bahrain International Circuit continues to host staggering crowds and a wide range of events and activities, and serves as a platform that encourages motorsports in the Kingdom. bahraingp.com
In celebration of Bahrain’s festive season, stc and Bahrain Tourism and Exhibitions Authority organizes a spectacular festival in Bahrain.Bahrain Festival City with stc will feature a lot of fun and excitement for everyone to enjoy with over 45 live performances, an outdoor ice rink, daily live shows, and more! The event will take place between the 12th of January and the 2nd of February from 4pm to 11pm on weekdays and 4pm to 12pm on weekends at Bahrain International Circuit. Bahrain Festival City is showcasing tons of new music talents to appeal to the multi-cultural country of Bahrain. The music talent ranges from local Arabic music, all the way to Blues rock bands, like The Relocators, a Bahrain-based Blues Rock band filled with edgy guitar-driven tempos, engaging energy, and a whole lot of sing-along melodies. Sand artist Zahra, a promising and upcoming artist with many talents and a huge advocate for the art industry, will draw amazing artwork on a sand canvas while music is being played, showcasing her amazing abilities and talent in an elegant and captivating style. While The Mad Science Show, a festival’s favorite with children, will use the power of science not only to entertain kids but to educate them with fun, yet safe, flames. The main feature of the Festival are the rides and attractions. This year, Bahrain Festival City went all out with rides that can be enjoyed by all ages. There are rides for the adrenaline addicts, such as the Kamakazi, a pendulum ride that goes full 360 multiple times. There are also many traditional rides and attractions, such as the iconic merry-go-round. stc.com.bh
December 2023