Durrah issue 29 by Durrah Luxury Magazine

volume 08 Issue 01 autumn 2015

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Contents Editorial Editor in Chief Khalid Ahmed Juman Features Editor Laura Templeton Editorial Assistant Ahmed Khunji Art Art Director Geir C. Erdal Marketing and Sales Media Sales Director Hussain Al Zaimoor Production Production Support Venkatesan J. S

Volume 08 Issue 01 Autumn 2015 012 First Impression A word from Durrah’s editor in chief

014 Committed to Greatness His Excellency Sheikh Mohammed bin Essa Al Khalifa

018 A Golden Experience Scott Dunn travel experience

024 On His Own Terms Artist Ammar Basheir

028 Between Art and Nature Italian Gardens collection from Bulgari

034 A Bright Constellation The latest from Omega

038 Wings of a Dream Cape Cod Zebra Pegasus from Hermès

040 Italian Sparkle Interview with IWC’s Karoline Huber

042 Timeless Innovation The latest timepieces for men

047 Effortless Elegance The latest timepieces for women

054 Essentially Masculine Fragrances for men

059 Revealing Radiance Fragrances for women

064 A Library of Scents Opus IX from Amouage

066 Exquisite Style Luxury handbags for women

072 Artist of the Maharajas Artist Bhim Singh Hada

078 Expensive Taste Expensive spice saffron

080 Artistic Expression ArtBahrain announces three new supports

086 Colourful Creation Bahraini artist Omar Al-Rashid

IT support Digital Manager Hussain Al Anjawi

DURRAH LUXURY MAGAZINE PO Box 13990, Manama, Kingdom of Bahrain T. +973 77077777 F. +973 17226555

092 Opulent Openings Brands showcase their latest boutiques

100 Something Old, Something New Travelling to Vienna volume 08 Issue 01 autumn 2015

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106 Tropical Exoticism The Bulgari Hotel & Resort Bali Mansions

110 Style and Service Five star hotel locations

122 Enchanting Indulgence Two luxury spa destinations

130 Distinctive Dining A collection of fine dining

142 Culinary Creations Recipes from Chef Chuck Kazmer

148 Extreme Power: 40 Years of Ferrari V8 The Ferrari 488 GTB

154 An Updated Icon Rolls-Royce Ghost Series II

160 Breaking New Ground The new BMW 7 Series

164 Refined Racing The latest from Bentley and Infiniti

Cover Image Durrah is proud to announce that Rolls-Royce is the official partner of ArtBahrain 2015.

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.

170 My Wish List Must Haves for men

175 My Wish List Must Haves for women

180 A Big Achievement The biggest book in the world

ISSN 2210-1322

184 The World is Waiting The “36 Hours” trilogy

188 Final Pearl ArtBahrain and Jewellery Arabia

www.durrah.bh e.mail: info@durrah.bh

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012

Welcome

First Impression A word from the editor-in-chief

he next few months are proving to be a very exciting time to be in Bahrain, with a variety of events to keep you busy all throughout autumn. Held under the patronage of Her Royal Highness Princess Sabeeka Bint Ibrahim Al Khalifa, Wife of the King of Bahrain and President of Supreme Council for Women, the first ArtBahrain takes place in the Kingdom from 13-16 October. ArtBahrain will bring world-class art to Bahrain, while also shining a spotlight on local talent through showcasing the best artistic talent the country has to offer. Bahrain has already proved itself as an arts and culture capital, and with an increasing list of events on the horizon we will only see it develop further. This issue we interview His Excellency Sheikh Mohammed bin Essa Al Khalifa who provides inspiring insight into his life and passion for the Bahrain economy. As Tamkeen Chairman and Acting Chief Executive and Political and Economic Affairs Advisor to Bahrain Crown Prince HRH Prince Salman bin Hamad

Al-Khalifa, His Excellency Sheikh Mohammed has a clear focus and vision for the future of the Kingdom. Another highlight this issue is Durrah’s trip with luxury travel consultants Scott Dunn to India’s Golden Triangle. Read about the amazing experience staying in five star accommodation from Delhi to Jaipur, enjoying an exceptional, tailor-made itinerary. Our expectations were truly exceeded thanks to Kate Pittam and the Scott Dunn team, who left no detail overlooked. Once you have experienced a holiday with Scott Dunn, you’ll never look at luxury travel in the same way again. You will also find interviews with artists Bhim Singh Hada, Omar Al-Rashid and Ammar Basheir, and recipes shared by Chef Chuck Kazmer of the Four Seasons Hotel Amman. As always we have showcased the latest cars, hotels, spas, restaurants, boutiques and more, so you can be assured you’ll find all the latest in luxury within these pages.

Khalid Ahmed Juman Editor in Chief

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Up Close and Personal

Passionate about his work and country, His Excellency Sheikh Mohammed bin Essa Al Khalifa is committed to ensuring the continued growth and stimulation of the Bahraini economy. As Tamkeen Chairman and Acting Chief Executive, Political and Economic Affairs Advisor to Bahrain Crown Prince HRH Prince Salman bin Hamad Al-Khalifa, and chair and board member of various organisations, His Excellency Sheikh Mohammed wears more than a few hats. With so many responsibilities, he manages to remain focused and passionate, with a clear vision for the future of Bahrain. His Excellency Sheikh Mohammed speaks with Durrah, offering an inspiring insight into his life and work.

Committed to Greatness

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Up Close and Personal

Whether it’s five years, ten years, fifteen years, or even fifty years; as long as I can I will be working towards continuing Bahrain’s economic stability. 01 Portrait of His Excellency Sheikh Mohammed bin Essa Al Khalifa

02 Sh. Mohammed bin Essa honours members of the Bahrain Businesswomen’s Society at the graduation ceremony for the ‘Marketing for Enterprises Programme’

Interview with His Excellency Sheikh Mohammed bin Essa Al Khalifa What are you truly passionate about? Economy. The study of economics is a multifaceted field, and interlinks with other fields of study. To understand it, you need to be able to understand various factors and how they interlink with each other, to ultimately create this complex system for the movement of goods and services. This complexity has always intrigued me to appreciate this ever-evolving system, locally, regionally and internationally. I am also truly passionate about my country. Bahrain is a diverse country, in a unique position within the region. Being my homeland, I’ve always wanted to do more for it, in whatever way I can.

Your passion for promoting entrepreneurship and diversity in Bahrain’s economy is something you are wholeheartedly committed to. Why is that? This is a combination of my two passions, passion for my country, and a passion towards understanding economics. The economy is a pillar for the continuation of any state in the world, and Bahrain is no exception. Having a robust economy that can withstand hardships, remain established, and bounce back to growth in a cyclical nature, is very critical for a stable society.

You have worn many hats over the years. Which has been the most enjoyable for you, and why? Regardless of what role I take, I am and have always been involved in developing Bahrain’s economy and ensuring its stability. I have enjoyed all my roles, mostly because they have allowed me to pursue my passion for economic development. In Tamkeen, we work towards empowering Bahrainis to reach their

full potential and invest in up-skilling them to take responsibilities within the labour market, ultimately making them the employees of choice. All our programmes are targeted towards creating a suitable eco-system for success.

Where do you see yourself personally and professionally in the next five to ten years time? What would you like to achieve over the years and what legacy would you like to leave behind? Whether it’s five years, ten years, fifteen years, or even fifty years; as long as I can I will be working towards continuing Bahrain’s economic stability and development in the long-term, and strengthening it to make it capable of going through cycles of growth.

Who has been a big source of inspiration in your life and why?

I could always see, even when I was younger, the potential Bahrain had as a country and to witness a progress in the making over the years; it resonates with you. Ever since that time, I’ve made it my mission to ensure that my country continues on a path of prosperity and stability.

What do you consider your greatest achievements? Having a robust, stable economy, with the potential to grow is the ultimate objective, so I would say that my greatest achievement is my role in supporting the Private Sector and supporting Bahrainis to become the employees of choice through Tamkeen’s programmes. Since its establishment in 2006, Tamkeen has become an important pillar in empowering Bahrainis and the private sector to become the engine that drives Bahrain’s economy forward.

Anyone concerned with understanding the complex system that we call the economy, knows the father of modern economics, Adam Smith. During his time, Adam Smith was a revolutionary thinker, and was able to understand some of the forces of economy, and how they integrated with each other. Our understanding of economics has evolved since then, but he was a major pillar of its foundation. Adam had a unique way of thinking, which allowed him to set such a foundation, and it’s his comprehensive thought process that lets him give us an overall view of economic structure. On a smaller scale, I’m also trying to bring some different thinking and solutions to Bahrain’s economy.

What advice would you impart to Bahrain’s youth?

How has your upbringing and education helped shape who you are today?

I already do what I wish to do, not just one day, but every day.

Work hard, while pursuing your passion is a principal that any young person should follow. It’s a proven formula for increasing your chances of achieving your goals and aspirations. Don’t be afraid to take risks. Ask yourself, “What is the worst thing that could happen”. If you fail, try again. We’re here to support you. Tamkeen will be with you throughout your journey, whether you’re in high school, college, looking for a career, looking to establish a business, and even further than that.

If you had one day to do whatever it is you wish, what would it be, and why?

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Experience

A Golden Experience Renowned service, uncompromised quality, first-hand knowledge, and incredible value; this is what makes a Scott Dunn experience so special. The award winning luxury tour operators create tailor-made holidays to amazing destinations all over the world. Durrah embarked on one of these incredible adventures, travelling to Indiaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Golden Triangle, and discovered why the Scott Dunn experience is more than just a holiday.

ime is a valuable thing. With the ever increasing responsibilities and work commitments of day-to-day life, when the chance arises to have a much needed getaway, the opportunity should not be wasted. Luxury tour operators Scott Dunn believe that time away is precious, and the greatest luxury of all is the assurance that everything has been taken care of, so clients are free to sit back and make the absolute most of their holiday. It all starts with a phone call. Taking the time to listen and understand what clients are looking for, the Scott Dunn team creates a tailor made experience that will exceed expectations. Travel consultants spend four weeks a year in the field, visiting properties and learning more about their specialist regions, to unearth hidden gems that add the intangible sparkle to a holiday.

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Experience

From a safari in Africa followed by a week in the Seychelles, or a journey across Japan from Tokyo to Hakone National Park’s volcanic valley, Scott Dunn can craft the perfect holiday and ensure that every detail is catered to. Anything can be arranged, whether it’s a family adventure, a romantic escape, an incredible journey or a special event somewhere exotic. The business operates luxury ski chalets in the Alps; villas in the Mediterranean fully staffed with Scott Dunn private chefs, nannies and hosts; and kids clubs at luxury hotels in Europe, the Maldives and Thailand. Durrah embarked on one of these unforgettable adventures, for a six-night stay across India’s Golden Triangle. Arriving in Delhi, everything from the first class seat to the private road transfer was arranged. A printed itinerary provided helpful information detailing time differences, currency exchange, a fact sheet about India, and highlights of the tour. The first night was spent in The Oberoi, New Delhi, a sophisticated and luxurious hotel situated right in the centre of town, overlooking a green golf course. With fantastic facilities, the hotel is perfectly located for

01 Taj Mahal silhouette from the banks of the Yamuna river 02 Elephant Royalty 03 Detail of decorated gateway. Amber fort. Jaipur, Rajasthan, India 04 Facade of Jama Masjid, Delhi, India 05 Peacock Gate at the Chandra Mahal, Jaipur City Palace in Jaipur, Rajasthan, India 06 Red Fort Delhi

sightseeing. Activities organised by Scott Dunn included dining at the hotel’s impressive restaurants and a culinary experience with The Oberoi New Delhi’s chef; a tour discovering the ‘Hidden Old Delhi’ exploring markets, architecture and the Red Fort; and lunch at Saravana Bhavan, known for its delicious south Indian cuisine. The next stop was to Agra – a city south of Delhi, on the banks of the Yamuna River and home to the Taj Mahal, the most famous attraction in India. Accommodation was organised at Agra’s premium hotel, The Oberoi Amarvilas, where all 64 rooms and suites have uninterrupted views of the Taj Mahal. During this two night stay, a breath-taking viewing of the Taj Mahal at sunrise was organised, followed by a tour of Agra Fort & Itmad-ud-Daulah Tomb, an interactive lunch with The Oberoi chef, and a Mughal Heritage Walk, showcasing local life away from the tourist trail. The next day included a transfer to Jaipur’s luxury hotel The Oberoi Rajvilas, where Scott Dunn had ensured the Premier rooms were available and pre-booked for the two-night stay.

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Experience

Experiences organised by Scott Dunn in Jaipur included a trek into the Aravali hills and local Meena tribal settlements, an elephant safari into the Dera Amer camp behind the hills of the famous Amer Fort, a tour of Jaipurâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s classic sights including the City Palace, and a walking tour amongst the colourful markets and vibrant culture of the city. Relaxation and down time was also thought out, with fine dining, spa treatments and a traditional Aarti blessing ceremony pre-planned. The last leg of the trip saw a return to Delhi and The Oberoi, Gurgaon, conveniently located close to the airport. The modern hotel was the perfect place to unwind at the end of the trip, tastefully designed and with landscape windows overlooking beautiful water features. From here private transfers were organised for the trip back to the airport to return home. Exceeding all expectations, the Scott Dunn experience was both enjoyable and uncomplicated, ensuring that every moment was enjoyed to the fullest. 06

Scott Dunn offers services to guests based in the UAE, with their website featuring a huge selection of holiday ideas departing from the UAE, all priced in Dirhams. Because the service is bespoke and best initiated by a conversation with our Travel Consultants, a free local phone number is available for UAE residents. With many clients returning year after year, you can trust the Scott Dunn team to not only tailor the perfect holiday, but to look after everything from the moment of booking, until after returning home. The portfolio of properties covers every style and possibility, so there is something for everyone. Scott Dunn offers a luxury 10-night itinerary to India exploring the Golden Triangle from 1,625 BHD per person. This includes luxury accommodation, a private driver throughout, guides and experiences. For more information please visit scottdunn.com or call toll free on 1619 8244

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Up Close and Personal

On his own terms In his decade long career, Ammar Basheir has carved out a niche for himself as the go to designer of atmospheric spaces for some of the Gulfâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s most discerning tastemakers. That he has managed to build a multi-million dollar business is all the more intriguing, given he has cultivated a following entirely through word of mouth. Despite this, his status as a best-kept secret in the region is about to change thanks to a string of high profile projects.

uccess in any field is often based on timing and whom one meets along the way,” says Ammar Basheir. In 1999 the Bahraini interiors and space designer moved to London to pursue a degree in interior design from Central Saint Martins. “My education really took place outside the classroom, as London was a great place to train ones eye as a designer,” observes Basheir, who as a young student would immerse himself in the city’s vibrant art scene, regularly visiting landmarks such as the Saatchi Gallery. “It was an incredible time to be in London. I witnessed the transformation of neighbourhoods such as Shoreditch into creative hubs. It was there that I saw the work of Damien Hirst and Tracy Emin for the first time, and it made me question the difference between art and design. It also forced me to reconsider the whole creative process, as their work seemed to bridge both disciplines.” Basheir’s own career includes diverse projects such as Al Othman’s boutiques in Kuwait, Bahrain and London, in addition to the recent Russian Textile exhibition at Bahrain’s National Museum. Following his graduation from Saint Martins in 2003, Basheir landed a coveted position in the design department of Harvey Nichols. “It was a big learning curve for me, because it exposed me to the materials and techniques that can bring a design to life,” he says. Basheir was also exposed to the city’s fashion industry while creating the store’s windows and installations. “During my three years there, I learned that great design can be created with the use of relatively humble materials,” he added, noting that he was able to launch his career in Bahrain thanks to a chance encounter with the first of several mentors. “Shortly after returning to Bahrain in 2005 I met Fatima Alireza at a private dinner. After telling her about my work at Harvey Nichols, she invited me to visit the La Fontaine Centre for Contemporary Art in her family’s 200 year old house.” Soon after, Alireza brought him on as a design consultant for La Fontaine, where Basheir set about redesigning its exhibition galleries and award winning restaurant, which included custom-designed cutlery, furniture and plates. “La Fontaine exposed me to a very sophisticate aesthetic that was the complete opposite of the brash designs I saw in London. Working with Fatima Alireza taught me a great deal about timeless beauty and made me realise that it is possible to create a distinct design identity in Bahrain.”

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Up Close and Personal

In 2007, an exhibition Basheir conceived at La Fontaine to showcase the work of award-winning Iranian photographer Reza, attracted the attention of Sheikha Mai, President of the Bahrain Authority for Culture & Antiquities. Impressed by his designs she asked to meet with him, and shortly thereafter commissioned Basheir to design the space for the opening performance of the Spring of Culture that year. It would be the first of many projects that included the design of sumptuous arabesque-inspired dinner settings on the roof of UNESCO’s headquarters in Paris as well as the John F. Kennedy Centre for the Performing Arts in Washington D.C. in 2008. “For both of those projects we had all the design elements fabricated in Bahrain and shipped to Paris and Washington,” recalls Basheir, who sees his work as a form of cultural diplomacy. “Working on those two events in particular made me realise that design can be a powerful tool to bridge cultures and expose diverse audiences to the craftsmanship that can be found in Bahrain.” The designer soon began travelling with Sheikha Mai to create installations and kiosks for Bahrain at the Frankfurt and London book fairs. “When I first met Sheikha Mai we immediately clicked, as she is someone who is very knowledgeable about art and design. We began working together to create a distinct design vocabulary for Bahrain that blends tradition and modernity,” says Basheir of Sheikha Mai, who gave him complete creative freedom. “Working with Sheikha Mai, challenged me to grow as a designer and to come up with innovative ideas that meet her high standards. She

taught me that anything is possible,” he added. Through her he was able to meet a number of his design idols such as Tadao Ando and Zaha Hadid. On September 27th 2015, Basheir will unveil the Post Office Museum located steps away from Bab Al Bahrain in Manama’s old souk. His most ambitious cultural project to date for Sheikha Mai, it occupies the original 1920s building that once housed Bahrain’s first post office. “It’s a particular slice of Bahrain’s history. We wanted to emphasise how the Kingdom was connected to the world through this one building, which served as a communications hub for sending and receiving mail and telegraphs,” says Basheir, who began with folding envelopes as a starting point for his design. The result is a sleek installation fabricate from bent wood panelling that unfolds like an envelope to reveal a display of historic stamps. “We wanted to recreate this sense of nostalgia and emotion for a time when people waited to hear from their loved ones far away. We also wanted to explore that sense of curiosity about what lies behind the envelope.” The Bahraini designer relied on local craftsmen to create most of the museum’s design elements, stating, “Throughout all my projects I’ve always believed in empowering local people, and I insisted that everything be made in Bahrain as much as possible.” Another prominent design feature in the museum are the custom copper lighting fixtures conceived by Basheir. “I spent a day following the local postman in Manama, and the lightings’ layout on the ceiling mirrors his daily route”.

He also created a café and gift shop featuring a custom woven wall carpet installation. “Everyone can relate to the idea of an oriental rug, but what makes this design modern is that it is being used in an unexpected way,” he adds, noting that each strip of carpet involved painstaking handiwork to produce. To mark the museum’s opening, Basheir created a suspended kinetic sculpture at Bab Al Bahrain, comprised of hundreds of interconnected gold-plated aluminium panels. “The piece is inspired by Al Murtashiha, a monumental gold necklace that was traditionally worn by brides on their wedding day,” explains the designer of the 50 meter long piece, which rises like a canopy 6 meters above the ground. “As my business has grown, I’ve increasingly shifted my focus to scenography and creating unique and unforgettable moments. The most satisfying aspect of my work is when I can watch people gasp in wonderment when they enter one of my spaces. For me that is the true power of design.” www.ammarbasheir.com 01 Couture techniques inspired the design of ON Motocomb, Al Othman’s exclusive london boutique

04 A design for the Ministry of Culture’s stand at the Bahrain International Book Fair 2014

02 Bahraini designer Ammar Beshier at his London home

05 The whimsical interior of Plums restaurant at Bahrain’s Ritz Carlon

03 A soaring wedding pavilion in Kuwait ingeniously constructed from electroplated PVC pipes

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Jewellery

Between Art and Nature

Italian jewellery and luxury goods brand Bulgari has launched a new High Jewellery collection of 100 unique pieces inspired by the art of the garden; the blooming flower in the Italian Renaissance. Thanks to the wisdom of the artists and artisans of the Roman Maison, the spectacular collection titled â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Italian Gardensâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; brings together the most evocative elements of great art.

talian Gardens, the new collection from Bulgari, features over 100 pieces of exquisite High Jewellery inspired by the art of the garden. The great art of Italian gardens burgeoned during the Renaissance, when architects, painters and sculptors of the calibre of Raphael and Michelangelo re-imagined ancient culture channelled through the Humanistic tradition, remodelling the very notion of beauty by exploring a new idea of nature and art. However it was through the gardens of the palaces and villas that the most creative and profound relationship was forged between art and nature: from the Belvedere in the Vatican to Villa dâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Este in Tivoli,Villa Lante in Bagnaia and the Boboli Gardens in Florence, the Renaissance architects went beyond the traditional and simplistic imitation of nature. They redefined its contours, gave it form and ultimately transformed it into a work born of man.

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Jewellery 01 Magical Reflections Pendant 02 Making of the Secret Garden Pendant

Every art form arises from visionary impulses and knowledge and techniques accumulated over time.

03 Sparkling Hearts Pendant 04 Water Symphony Ring 05 Italian Gardens, Image from Life in Bulgari

The Italian garden is an artifice that uses nature just as the fresco uses the colour palette or the sculpture the block of marble. Boxwood hedges form geometrical harmonies, delighting the eye through sheer purity of form; water springing from the fountains captures the gaze and the senses; the delightful transfiguration of evergreens are pruned as sculptures; the fragile but potent colours of the flowers, and then the statues, the caves, the waterworks and greenery, the festoons, the scenic terraces and the nymphs; all create a beautiful spectacle. Every art form arises from visionary impulses and knowledge and techniques accumulated over time. The art of the Italian gardens echoes this, but it has also maintained a close and continuous dialogue with nature: sometimes by imposing order and measure, sometimes hesitating at the boundaries, which cannot be crossed without the risk of robbing it of mystery, power and beauty. Like the great Renaissance architects, Bulgariâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s designers see nature not as a model to be reproduced, but as both a source of inspiration and a primal source of beauty that can be recreated in unforeseen shapes and designs. Equally, it is a precious raw material that requires knowledge and respect in order to be transformed into a work of art. The jewels and watches of Bulgari came into being because of this eternal dialogue between nature and

art: nature, embodied in the precious metals and stones, in the beauty they exude and the constraints they impose; and art, flowing through the work of designers, gemologists and artisan jewellers. Within this dialogue, stones and precious raw materials are moulded into unique pieces of jewellery reflecting nature, the purest form of art. Inspired by the geometric designs of the sculpted evergreens that feature in the most beautiful Italian gardens, the amazing Hidden Treasures earrings from the collection draw their evocative power from four fancy cut emeralds from Zambia. The 4 stones, altogether weighing 143.1 carats, were extracted from a single 400-carat raw stone. Bulgari then drew from deep within them a vital, more intense colour. The unusual cut enhances the extraordinary brightness, while delicate platinum claws and diamonds (8.40 ct) surround the stones in a gentle embrace, creating a play of florid and yet wonderfully light volumes. The alternating arrangement is highlighted by brilliant cut diamonds (2.00 ct), which create a point of light between each emerald. Inspired by the festoons found in the Roman caves of the Domus aurea in the sixteenth century and restored to vogue by artists such as Raphael, Blue Iridescence presents an extraordinary set of sapphires (187.48-carat), acquired by Bulgari in various parts of the

world and patiently set aside for years, in anticipation of the magic moment. The blue of these sapphires, highly cherished by the Roman Maison, has a shimmering azure hue and maintains colour and shine even in the dark. The bold choice to set pink spinels (81.13 ct) alongside bring these extraordinary gems engenders an even closer rapport between the two stones, with festoons of diamonds (24.75 ct) marking the rhythm. Inspired by the geometry of the Italian flowerbeds, the Sparkling Hearts necklace adds a romantic touch to Renaissance design. While hedges describe straight lines and diagonals, Bulgari creates surprise by using the curved lines of the classic symbol of romance, but set within a geometric architecture. The hearts of fancy and brilliant cut diamonds with their sensual movement resemble a contemporary reinterpretation of the tremblant design, a classic of the Bulgari tradition. The pavĂŠ diamond motif that recurs in the chain and end tuft recalls two other elements of the Italian garden: the flow of water and the blossoming of flowers at the changing of the seasons. With its wealth of meanings, Sparkling Hearts is a very adaptable piece of jewellery: with or without the tuft, or as a brooch with square pendant. How it shall be is all down to the desire of the woman who will wear it.

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Jewellery

Inspired by the musicality of Italian fountains, Water Symphony is a melody that revolves around the large central sapphire (45.57 ct), which is counterpointed by the smallest sapphire (3.65 ct). It is almost impossible to find two sapphires that have such differing dimensions but the same intensity of light and colour. The central sapphire was originally 53 carats, but was reduced in order to obtain the brightness and that azure point that would embody the style and identity of the Maison. Making it even more vibrant is the rose window created by pear and brilliant cut diamonds and ribbons of baguettes, which are repeated in the chain, forming stylised violin keys and reaching overall 38.73 carats of diamonds. Just as music can give endless variations on a single theme, the Water Symphony necklace can also become a brooch and a bracelet, in perfect harmony with whoever wears it.

06 Loveâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Paradise Pendant 07 Spring Encounter Pendant 08 Blue Iridescence Pendant 09 Hidden Treasures Earrings

The Italian Gardens collection includes an ode to a masterpiece whose very theme is the eternal rebirth of nature: the Allegory of Spring by Sandro Botticelli. This creation refers to Bulgari’s past, recalling a visionary necklace from 1969 in yellow gold with pearls, coral and diamonds. Spring Encounter, amidst its beauty and romantic allure, is also testimony to cutting-edge techniques: sixteen brilliant diamonds in the centre of each flower vibrate like pistils brought to life; the petals are studded with pavé diamonds and seem as though they would break off to the touch, like the most fragile parts of a flower: attributes that can be infused in a gem only by the genius of Bulgari’s designer and craftsmen. Most of the Italian Renaissance gardens have an intimate and hidden area, a place of quiet where the most beautiful flowers bloom. Secret Garden takes its inspiration from these discreet and precious angles. It is the colour that reigns in this delicate necklace, crafted to give volume and movement to the stones: rubellite, tanzanite, citrine, amethyst and aquamarine are creatively combined, almost recalling the pop art flowers of Andy Warhol. Subtle yet substantial, thanks to the special fancy cut, they are mounted on very light claws that seem to bear them aloft in the air, leaning like petals that yield before a spring breeze. The distinctive Bulgari technique of imposing geometry on natural forms here creates an unconventional flower with four multi-coloured petals, alluding to the cloverleaf symbol of good fortune. Love’s Paradise alludes to the idea of the garden as a place of delight, a haven created for the pleasure of 07 08 09

those who have the privilege to enjoy it. An inevitable notion, given the magnificence of the sapphire that sits regally at the centre of this necklace (125.35 ct). Originating in Sri Lanka, it was fashioned from a 400-carat raw stone sapphire cut several times to get to the very heart of the stone and reveal the marine blue that can be admired now. The current brilliant cut was the idea of Bulgari, who, despite having to sacrifice several carats, seized on the chance to achieve perfection. This amazing sapphire was ultimately refined with gentle touches of light: fancy and brilliant cut diamonds (33.18 ct), pavé and a star of emeralds that frame the stone. Sinuous, lively and as scintillating as the water that flows in all Italian gardens, the Magical Reflections necklace in white gold and brilliant and pear cut diamonds is much inspired by water chains. This includes the cascading rivulets that can be admired at Villa Lante, the masterpiece of Renaissance architecture just a few kilometres from Rome. The architecture that guides the brook in the water chain here gives rise to a unique and unmistakable design. Likewise, the curved and threedimensional lines of Magical Reflections emphasise the purity of the diamonds in a play of light volumes. Masterfully executed by Bulgari, the arrangement at once recalls the lapping of the water flowing among the stone volutes. www.bulgari.com/en-us/bulgari-giardini-italiani

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A Bright Constellation In astronomy, the word constellation refers to a group of stars. Meanwhile, in the watchmaking industry, the word is always associated with the Omega Constellation collection. This year, Omega has released an evocative interpretation of the Constellation Pluma with a light coralcoloured dial that is reminiscent of the warm sunshine on a summer day. Durrah discovers this stunning new timepiece, and speaks exclusively to Omega Watches CEO, Stephen Urquhart.

ntroduced in 1952, the Omega Constellation collection has always reflected precision, high technological standards and aesthetic appeal. Last year, Omega unveiled its collection of Constellation Pluma timepieces. These sophisticated watches take their name from the Latin word for â&#x20AC;&#x153;featherâ&#x20AC;?, subtly hinting at the delicate design that accentuates its most striking element. This year Omega has released its latest interpretation of the Constellation Pluma. Similar to its sisters, this 27mm timepiece is decorated with 11 diamond indexes in 18K gold holders and a soft-wavy pattern that flows between the iconic claws on the bezel. Its polished and facetted central hour, minute and seconds hands are

crafted from 18K gold and coated with white SuperLumiNova, so the time can be read in a variety of lighting conditions. The 18K red gold bezel of this ladiesâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; wristwatch is paved with 32 full-cut diamonds, adding to the overall style of this piece. This Constellation Pluma is presented on a bracelet with brushed stainless steel links and polished 18K red gold bars. The Omega CoAxial calibre 8520 at its heart is visible through a domed scratch-resistant case-back and the precision and reliability of this mechanical movement is such that the timepiece is offered with a full four-year warranty. www.omegawatches.com

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Watches 01 The new Constellation Pluma 02 The Omega launch event 03 The new timepiece features 32 full-cut diamonds 04 Portrait of Stephen Urquhart

03 04

Interview with Stephen Urquhart, Omega Watches CEO What do you think a timepiece from Omega represents? Since 1848, Omega has built its reputation on a commitment to precision, as well as a dedication to advanced innovation. Our brand has always been at the forefront of the watchmaking industry, and we are well known and respected for our pioneering approach. So, in answer to your question, I believe that an Omega represents the highest-quality timepiece on the market. When you invest in one, you are not only purchasing a fine watch, but you are sharing in our history and passion for excellence.

The average price of your watches has come up over the past few years, why is this? I would say that the average price increase is due mainly to the introduction of our exclusive Co-Axial technology in almost all of our mechanical watches. What’s important to stress is that the quality and function of our watches is constantly evolving in line with the demands of the modern world. But our prices are not greatly affected because of this. Even as we introduce new METAS certification, our prices will remain the same.

the existing COSC certification, customers will now have maximum confidence in their product. I think this is another defining moment in our history, and in fact the whole industry, and it’s only the first step. Our aim is to include the same techniques in all of our mechanical watches in the future.

What is your opinion on modern technology in relation to watches? Would Omega ever release a ‘smart watch’? Smart watch technology will certainly have to coexist with traditional watchmaking. I can imagine that the enthusiasm for smart watches will be good for the industry. It’s interesting that people have figured out that the wrist is a good place to access information – we’ve known that for well over a century. But there’s an emotional connection with a traditional watch that I don’t think a smart watch will ever be able to replicate. A vintage Omega can become a family heirloom, passed proudly from generation to generation. It’s hard to imagine a current smart watch achieving that sort of status. Right now, there is no plan to release a ‘smart watch’, but we are not opposed to using our group’s ‘connected’ technology in certain products.

What are some of the latest exciting developments from Omega watches, in terms of innovation and exclusivity?

How do you ensure modern designs pay tribute to the heritage of Omega?

Right now, I think that our new Globemaster collection is the most innovative watch on the market. As the world’s first Master Chronometer, fitted with unrivalled anti-magnetic technology, we are truly setting a new standard in watchmaking. Not only is this huge in terms of innovation, but the new METAS certification, that I mentioned in my previous answer, will test each watch like never before. Through 8 specific tests that cover magnetism, accuracy, reliability and water-tightness, each watch will be officially certified at the highest possible level, under conditions that replicate real-life wearing conditions. By adding this to

Omega is a brand that has a rich past, and we often recall this for our modern designs. There is a lot of inspiration available and we know that our consumers are also deeply connected to our heritage. Technology may have moved on, but on the outside, you’ll still see many tributes coming through. For example, we have recently released updated versions of models including the Speedmaster ‘57 and the Seamaster 300. We’ve retained much of the original look and style, but been able to update them in subtle ways. That way, customers can feel like they’re also buying into our past. We also produce some commemorative and limited edition models. A good

example of this is the Speedmaster “Silver Snoopy Award” 45th Anniversary Limited Edition. When Omega watches helped the astronauts of Apollo 13 return safely to Earth in 1970, NASA awarded the brand with their illustrious “Silver Snoopy Award”. To mark 45 years since that event, we’ve this year released a commemorative Speedmaster. It shows that we are proud of our heritage and pay tribute to it as often as possible.

What are some current trends in the watch market today and how has Omega answered to this? I wouldn’t say that Omega answers to any trends in the industry. In fact, we are a brand that sets them. We don’t need to look at what others are doing. We only concentrate on our own innovation. Our own recent “trends” would be something like our ceramic Speedmasters. They’re unlike anything else, with each watch created from a single block of ceramic. I think they again show the way that Omega is ahead of most other brands in terms of thinking.

What are the most popular Omega timepieces in the Middle Eastern market? We find that the Middle Eastern market has a particularly refined sense of style, and a real eye for sophistication. So the De Ville collection often gets a lot of attention. But honestly, buying a watch is such a personal decision. Everyone, no matter the region, has their own specific tastes and desires. We often find, when someone goes into our boutique, it’s not until they try different watches on that they find the style that’s right for them.

Do you plan to open and more boutiques in the Gulf region soon? We do have plans to expand our reach in Saudi Arabia, Qatar and UAE. However I can’t reveal any dates or details right now. Certainly, we are looking forward to doing more in this important region.

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Watches

It all begins with a 22-carat gold plate crafted into three different layers to create the first depth effects between the zebra and its wings.

At Hermès, delicate operations tinged with a blend of poetry and virtuosity combine, giving life to exceptional creations. Such is the case with the high-end French manufacture’s latest horological offering, the Cape Cod Zebra Pegasus.

Wings of a Dream

ike something straight out of a fantasy book, the dial of the new Cape Cod Zebra Pegasus from Hermès depicts the encounter between two ancient and highly demanding arts: engraving and Grand Feu enamelling. The latter is expressed through the miniature painting of the zebra and the cloisonné technique featured on the wings. Interpreted as four one-of-a-kind creations, each playing with different shades of colour, Cape Cod Zebra Pegasus features a motif borrowed from a Hermès silk scarf designed by Alice Shirley. It all begins with a 22-carat gold plate crafted into three different layers to create the first depth effects between the zebra and its wings. From here, the engraving work can now begin. Patient, meticulous and extremely accurate work from the engraver reveals the details of the feathers on the wings, which are then enamelled using the cloisonné technique. To achieve this, the artisan individually places tiny gold wires marking out the contours of the areas to which translucent enamel will be applied in exquisitely refined touches. When it comes to the zebra motif itself, the enameller

expresses a true artist’s soul through miniature enamelling. Wielded with infinite dexterity and delicacy like that of a painter, the brush dances across the dial in applying the glass powder – in this case opaque. Translucent or opaque pigments, a colourful or black & white symphony: only after numerous successive firings at more than 800°C will the enamel reveal all its subtle nuances. The wealth of colours, as well as the light, perspective and depth effects – born of the encounter between engraving and enamel – are gradually awakened with each firing in the kiln until the full picture finally emerges of this fascinating winged zebra, glowing and shimmering in its gold and enamel coat. These works of art find a worthy frame within a 750 white gold case, while a Manufacture Hermès H 1837 movement imparts vibrant mechanical life to these four truly unique models. usa.hermes.com/watches/cape-cod/cape-codgm-17402.html

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With a clear focus on technology and development, the Swiss watch manufacturer IWC Schaffhausen has been producing timepieces of lasting value since 1868. Durrah speaks with Brand Director for the Middle East & India, Karoline Huber, about what the IWC brand represents, the Middle Eastern market, and what motivated the brand’s latest Italian-inspired Portofino Midsize Collection.

Italian Sparkle How would you describe the style of IWC watches and what do you think people associate the brand with? I think the style of IWC watches is very elegant, and this elegance is very much defined by a very classy, timeless, and sober design. It’s about very clean lines that aren’t playful, but rather technical and functional. So an IWC watch is suitable for any occasion and is enjoyed by a large audience because it fits the respective clients wrist very well. For each of our beautiful timepieces we also have strong, authentic partnerships with multiple corporations around the world. We have the pleasure of hosting various special events with our spokespeople that relate to each model, and I think that’s the beauty of the brand; multiple stories that appeal to multiple people.

What does a timepiece from IWC symbolise to you? I think to a certain extent it is a state of mind related to a classiness or specific style, or elegance as I said before. It’s very much about my character or the client’s character that they can express through their timepiece, just as they probably would with their car as well. I don’t really like to call it a ‘status symbol’ because that’s not really the key component for me, for me it’s about an attitude that is carried on the wrist.

Since you are the brand director for the Middle East, what’s the taste of the Middle Eastern market like compared to the rest of the world? I’d say that in the Middle East in particular you have a very distinguished and sophisticated client base. People here have very strong roots in their culture and heritage, which differentiates them from the Western world. They have very strong values such as family, belief, trust, integrity and loyalty, which all add to their culture enormously. So I think all of these elements reflect in the choices they make for their wardrobe or accessories, and if you try and translate that to a watch, then it will probably be something that has a strong and lengthy heritage, which IWC definitely has. I think it also has to be special and unique, so I don’t think something mass-produced appeals to the sophisticated and distinguished clientele here, it’s very much about the limitation of quantity.

What qualities do you look for when selecting an ambassador to represent IWC? The qualities of our ambassadors have to be a perfect match to the IWC brand’s DNA. We have our very own, very defined character with our own values, and an ambassador helps us to bring those values to life. So if you look at something like our pioneering spirit for example, which is an

intrinsic brand value, we would look at an ambassador who shares that spirit. This is why we choose people like Nico Rosberg or Lewis Hamilton for example, who keep pushing the boundaries of technological innovation in Formula 1. Something else that is part of our DNA is masculinity, so in gentlemen we would always look for somebody who is very masculine in terms of his superiority and self esteem, somebody who is very self confident that we would feel is a very good match. There needs to be a certain element of elegance too.

How does IWC differentiate itself from other luxury watch brands? On brand level, if you look at other luxury watch brands in our segment we’re the only ones that are based in the Northern German speaking part of Switzerland. Also, IWC was founded by an American, while most other brands were founded by Swiss or French people. On a product level, I think IWC is the brand with the most diverse portfolio, as we have six very distinctive families and around about 200 references. I’m always claiming that if you don’t find a watch in our portfolio that you like then you don’t actually want to buy a watch, because there is something for everyone and it’s impossible not to like something. Finally, if you look at our brand on a marketing level, I think something that IWC has managed over the past 10-12 years in particular, is the story telling. I don’t know any other watch brand that has as many authentic and evocative stories to tell. And I think this whole package makes us stand out and appeal to a specific clientele.

What inspired the latest Portofino Midsize collection? That’s a very good question. I think it’s a combination of things. Number one we always had a Portofino family ever since the 1960s and the inspiration for the Portofino family comes indeed from Portofino – the Italian Riviera, the Dolce Vita lifestyle, the relaxed Italian flair, style and taste. To then take that a step further and create a Portofino Midsize collection was an inspiration that I think comes from the world that we live in and real life. I think there was a need to create a timepiece that appeals to both women and men, and the jewelled details of the watch were things we also saw demand for, and is something we’ve always wanted to do. To go into jewellery watches is something that is inevitable if you want to grow the brand. So it’s a combination of emotional inspiration from the past and very rational inspiration that is in demand from the market today.

What exciting things can we expect from IWC in the future? Stay tuned! IWC is always exciting and there’s always an element of surprise, and something new and unexpected. Give us another 12 weeks and I’m sure we will find another opportunity to surprise you. www.iwc.com

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Watches

Endowed with all the aesthetic codes and horological content of the worldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s best watchmakers, these new timepieces for men assert a new level of personality and refinement. Demonstrating finesse, creativity and the highest levels of accuracy, each model epitomises the best of the best.

Timeless Innovation Radiomir Firenze Special Edition, Panerai The brushed steel case of the new Radiomir Firenze Special Edition is 47mm in diameter; the same dimensions as the first watch created by Officine Panerai in 1936. It is entirely decorated with hand engraving by expert Italian craftsmen, the designs inspired by motifs that recur in Florentine iconography. Each case requires more than a week of work, made particularly demanding by the hardness of the AISI 316L stainless steel. The movement of the timepiece is the hand-wound P.3000 calibre, designed and made in the Panerai manufacture in NeuchĂ˘tel, and can be admired through the sapphire glass porthole, which is positioned in the centre of the back. The two spring barrels connected in series provide a power reserve of three days and the balance, which is unusually large (13.2 mm in diameter), oscillates at a frequency of 21,600 vibrations per hour (3 Hz). Consistent with its origins as a watch originally designed for military use underwater, the Radiomir Firenze is water-resistant to 100 metres and it is supplied with a black alligator strap with contrasting ecru stitching. Only 99 examples of the Special Edition exist, sold exclusively in Officine Paneraiâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s historic Florence boutique in Piazza San Giovanni. www.panerai.com

Duomètre Unique Travel Time, Jaeger- LeCoultre The Duomètre Unique Travel Time is the first watch to combine the convenience of world time with the flexibility of setting the destination time zone to the minute. The timepiece capitalises on the concept of “Dual Wing” thus avoiding any loss of accuracy. It displays the reference time as well as a second time zone with the hour displayed digitally on a jumping disc and the minutes indicated by a hand. A globe at 6 o’clock displays the world time with a subtle day/ night indication. The mechanical Jaeger-LeCoultre Duomètre Unique Travel Time watch displays a remarkably finished map of the world on a delicately grained dial. This finely chiselled map demonstrates the haute horlogerie expertise needed to create such a timepiece. The sapphire crystal back of the Duomètre Unique Travel Time watch reveals the unique decorations of the movement and features engraved names of cities corresponding to 24 time zones. These motifs emphasise the remarkable finishings on the Jaeger-LeCoultre calibre 383. www.jaeger-lecoultre.com

Capeland Shelby Cobra 18k Red Gold Flyback Chronograph, Baume & Mercier As an exclusive tribute to automotive legend Carroll Shelby, Baume & Mercier have created a flyback chronograph fitted with Manufacture Swiss-made self-winding movement. Created in polished and satinfinished 18K red gold, this emblematic timepiece of 44mm diameter features a Guardsman Blue dial. This is offset by special gold hands in the shape of the iconic Cobra steering wheel, Superluminova blue emission for a rich evening appearance and the renowned Cobra logo forged onto the seconds hand. The strap also pays a quiet homage, with genuine black alligator offset by an 18K red gold buckle, Cobra blue round-scale alligator lining and red stitching. On the reverse side, a sapphire crystal is framed by an 18K gold case back, with an engraving of the collection title and personal signature of Carroll Shelby. The 18k Red Gold Flyback Chronograph was made in a 98 piece limited edition, and arrives in special packaging with an exclusive miniature of the 427 Cobra, in addition to a custom brochure and card. www.baume-et-mercier.com

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Watches

Tissot Chemin des Tourelles The Tissot Chemin des Tourelles is a special piece that encapsulates an important part of Tissot’s history. It takes its name from the street in Le Locle, Switzerland, where the Tissot manufacture was established in 1907, and where the company can still be found today. The watch compliments the company’s vast 161 years of expertise with a contemporary design with an elegant case that comes in a variety of different finishes, including polished and brushed, perfectly demonstrating the technical know-how Tissot puts into every piece. The result is wonderfully luxurious, but still easily accessible thanks to the good value Tissot is still proud to offer. The model comes in a variety of versions featuring slightly different details, but each pays close attention to craftsmanship and precision. The Swiss made watches have an automatic movement with a 316L stainless steel case, seethrough case back, and domed scratch-resistant sapphire crystal with antireflective coating. www.tissot.ch

RM 029 Polo Club Saint-Tropez, Richard Mille For 2015 Richard Mille has launched a limited edition in collaboration with the Polo Club Saint-Tropez. In this third year of partnership, the RM 029 Polo Club Saint-Tropez is the men’s half of one of two new models. One of 50 pieces, the timepiece embodies a black ceramic front and back case with a casband of the lightweight material NTPT® carbon. The upper and lower rehaut is white and blue to reflect the colours of the Polo Club and features the club logo on the back glass. The RM 029 model is a perfect size (48mm x 39.70mm x 12.60mm) and with the classic tonneau shape and curved case, will fit on any wrist. The automatic calibre RMAS7 with oversized date mechanism and variable rotor geometry make the RM 029 the perfect companion for the day at the polo. www.richardmille.com

Lange 1 Time Zone Como Edition, A. Lange & Söhne For the fourth time, A. Lange & Söhne is sponsoring the prestigious “40 Years BMW Art Cars” exhibition at Concorso d’Eleganza Villa d’Este. Taking place in Como, the prestigious competition for classic automobiles and futuristic concept cars is one of the highlights of the event. A special model of the Lange 1 Time Zone was created exclusively for the winner of the Concorso, who for 2015 was David Sydorick. This year, the Lange 1 Time Zone “Como Edition” is the horological counterpart of the most stunning vehicle in the competition. The hand-engraved case back of the white-gold watch displays the coat of arms of the Concorso d’Eleganza Villa d’Este. On the city ring of the time-zone watch, Como – the venue of the event – stands for Central European Time. www.alange-soehne.com

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Watches

Classico Collection, Ulysse Nardin For the first time, Ulysse Nardin has introduced a Classico Collection timepiece with an in-house movement conceived and developed exclusively by the manufacture. Set within a classically designed timekeeper conveying purity in form and effortless elegance, the UN-320 calibre boasts a silicium hairspring and anchor escapement for supreme accuracy. On the watch’s dial, the hour, minutes, small seconds and date are at 6 o’clock – a stronghold of the Classico Collection’s basic design executions. With the implementation of the movement in the new Classico

Manufacture timepiece, wearers can now easily set the date backwards and forwards, a function offered largely by Ulysse Nardin; use the stop seconds feature with a mere pulling of the crown; and rely with confidence on the 48-hour power reserve. Available in a striking sunray blue finish and a timeless eggshell version, both held in a 40 mm gold case, this latest addition to the Classico Collection shows that tailored style always makes a statement. www.ulysse-nardin.com

Excalibur Knights of the Round Table II, Roger Dubuis In 2013, the legend of King Arthur was the inspiration for a one-of-a-kind Roger Dubuis creation evocatively named Excalibur Knights of the Round Table. Today, in 2015, Roger Dubuis has proudly introduced a new interpretation of the key values that have made this ageless legend truly universal. The stunning new 28-piece iteration available exclusively from Roger Dubuis boutiques features the 12 exquisitely engraved and sculpted bronze knights positioned around a precious black jade dial. Masterfully engraved and laden with symbolism, this fresh expression of the Round Table legend adds even further weight to the evocative power of the piece. Nestled inside the 45mm white gold case beats the same valiant heart as the first edition of this masterwork, mechanical self-winding Calibre RD821 with its comfortable 48-hour power reserve. Like all Roger Dubuis timepieces, all 172 components of this calibre are hand-finished and stamped with the prestigious Poinçon de Genève, a guarantee of exclusivity, origin, expertise, performance and durability entirely worthy of the brave knights of old. www.rogerdubuis.com

Effortless Elegance Dedicated to precision, function and beauty, each of these timepieces for women showcase a new level of innovation. Crafted by experienced artisans who aim to delight and enthral devotees of the finest in horology, these watches come to life on the wrists of women who make it their own.

Crazy Carats, Fendi Fendiâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s historic heritage is fur, leather and fashion, and the 2015 Crazy Carats limited edition symbolises all three. The creativity and artisan workmanship shines, as does the expert Swiss watchmaking and gem setting. The striped monochrome mink band hand crafted in the Fendi fur atelier is high fashion personified, while the strap beneath is made from fine alligator skin. The gems, white diamonds, and pink and blue sapphires adorn the unique device. A twist of the crown allows the wearer to choose which colour hour markers she will display. Each gem nestles in a polished bevel to enhance its sparkle. Two models have a fully diamond pavĂŠ case and centre dial while two have a diamond bezel and a diamond circlet on the dial, which has a sunray centre. The boldly striped band, in black and white mink is a timeless and elegant feature and can be slipped off to reveal the black or white alligator strap for daily wear. www.fendi.com/us/timepieces.html

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Watches

Métiers d’Art Mécaniques Ajourées, Vacheron Constantin Another brand featuring at the charity event Only Watch 2015, Vacheron Constantin renews its support with a unique Métiers d’Art Mécaniques Ajourées timepiece, beautified by an enamelled red ring. This creation links two worlds that evolved in similar ways in the late 19th century: architecture and watchmaking. Based on one of the stellar in-house movements, Calibre 4400, this sculptural work with its airy, transparent and finely arched construction exalting the art of openworking, vividly evokes the large European railway stations symbolising the golden age of the industrial revolution. The engraver’s technique is reinvented to resemble that of the sculptor, revealing fascinating light effects conveyed through a three-dimensional architecture enhanced by Grand Feu enamelling. Beating at a frequency of 28,800 vibrations per hour, the movement displays remarkable precision and offers an impressive 65-hour power reserve that is extremely user-friendly for a hand-wound calibre. www.vacheron-constantin.com

LVCEA Collection, Bulgari The LVCEA line is one of the most beloved signature collections around the world, and for 2015 Bulgari presents new features inspired by the eternal link of light and time. The newest editions come in alligator leather blue-sapphire, bordeaux-pink, or powder-pink coloured straps, to personalise any look. These vivid renditions of the collection are complemented by white or pink-gold, and the blue-sapphire and bordeauxpink feature precious diamond bezels and gold links. As well, they turn with a refined silver satiné soleil dial, recalling the ancient Roman sundial that inspired the collection. Meanwhile, LVCEA in powder-pink is paired with pink-gold, lustrously shining with a silver opaline dial. The classic 33mm has been increased to a pronounced 36mm, and in its most precious form, the pink-gold LVCEA features the pink-gold 36 mm bezel and bi-coloured precious metal bracelet, as it glows with a mother-of-pearl face and shines in perfect diamond indexes. www.bulgari.com/en-gb/lvcea

RM 07-01 Polo Club Saint-Tropez, Richard Mille The second 2015 release by Richard Mille in collaboration with the Polo Club Saint-Tropez is the ladies RM 07-01 timepiece. Complementing the menâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s model that was also released, the ladies edition has a white ceramic case and is limited to 30 pieces. The first ladies watch in the collection, the model has a white crown rubber with lapis lazuli dial and matching blue rehaut, colours that echo the colours of the French Riviera. At the heart of the RM 07-01 is the inhouse designed calibre CRMA2, a highly skeletonised automatic movement that provides the perfect synergy between performance and capability. This movement gives the RM 07-01 a power reserve of around 50 hours, a significant achievement, and is the first ladies timepiece in the Saint-Tropez collection. www.richardmille.com

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Watches

Classic Fusion Only Watch Britto, Hublot In support of the Only Watch charity event organised by the Monaco Association against Muscular Dystrophy since 2005, Hublot has unveiled a Classic Fusion timepiece in partnership with Brazilian artist Romero Britto. Embodying the full innovative capacity of the Hublot Manufacture, The Classic Fusion Only Watch Britto is being auctioned along with the canvas that inspired it. The timepiece combines the traditional art of enamelling with the contemporary pop art and cubism of the artist. The master dial-maker, guided by the vibrantly coloured work of art by Britto, reproduces the lines of the design at the correct scale. Britto’s iconic designs are brought out perfectly by the meticulously applied champlevé enamel. The end result is a unique piece, which finely demonstrates the principle of fusion between tradition and modernity, between craftsmanship and 21st Century innovation. www.hublot.com

Marine Chronometer Manufacture, Ulysse Nardin A stunning timepiece comprised of feminine features and state-of-the-art technology, the Marine Chronometer Manufacture byUlysse Nardin is a force to be reckoned with. Delicate in appearance with its mother-of-pearl dial, pastel Roman numerals and fluted bezel adorned with diamonds, the stunning timepiece is also vigorous in function. Powered by the ground breaking Ulysse Nardin 118 calibre, known for its DIAMonSIL escapement and silicon balance spring, and bearing all the hallmarks of the finest marine instruments, the ladies’ Marine Chronometer Manufacture offers women a wristwatch that is equal part jewellery and equal part extraordinary. The Marine Chronometer is manufactured in a limited edition of 150 pieces in each dial colour, and offered with a leather strap stitched in pastel to match the dial. www.ulysse-nardin.com

Serpenti Watch, Bulgari Bulgari has introduced a striking variation of the original design of their iconic Serpenti watch. Derived from High Jewellery design, the new head-over-tail shape is Bulgari’s new flagship timepiece. The lovely new face of the collection joins the family as a masterpiece of craftsmanship obtained through masterful goldsmithing, jewellery-making, and creativity, born of Italian genius and the meticulous savoir-faire of Bulgari’s Swiss watchmakers. With care, the snakes’ brilliant coiling scales are assembled, crafted, and carved one by one, in red enamel or diamond pavé. The Serpent symbol has become recognised around the world as the signature of Bulgari. Inspired by the ancient mythology where the snake represents wisdom, strength, and re-birth, Bulgari has been reinterpreting the powerful reptile since the 1940s in a distinctive collection of snake watchbracelets, now iconic to Bulgari heritage. The Serpenti range intertwines each of Bulgari’s hallmarks: a love for colour, juxtaposition of materials, flexible wearability, and avant-garde artisanal techniques. www.bulgari.com/en-us/serpenti

Altiplano 38mm 900P Only Watch, Piaget The Manufacture de Haute Horlogerie Piaget is another brand reiterating its support for research into Muscular Dystrophy by taking part in Only Watch event, which is held every two years under the Patronage of HRH Prince Albert II of Monaco. For their sixth edition of Only Watch, Piaget has interpreted its emblematic Altiplano 900P in a unique version, fitted for the very first time with red hands. The 38mm 900P is the world’s thinnest mechanical watch, with a record-breaking slenderness of just 3.65mm. Each of the 145 parts composing the Altiplano 38mm 900P has been trimmed to a size sometimes barely thicker than a hair’s breadth – including some wheels measuring a mere 0.12mm thin (compared with 0.20mm on a classic movement). To underscore the distinctive nature of this creation, the rim of its case-back is engraved with the inscription “Only Watch 2015 – unique piece”. www.piaget.com

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Special Feature

Just like gold, perfume was first associated with divinity. By extension, it symbolises the pursuit of perfection and the quest of absolute, which is exactly what these fragrances for men have sought to do. With outstanding craftsmanship, innovative design and contemporary functionality, each scent features a unique combination of refined ingredients woven together to create an unforgettable, lingering, masterpiece.

Essentially Masculine AJ Arabia Black III Black III is the third creation in the Black Collection of Aj Arabia founder, Ali Aljaberi, who takes pride in crafting truly bespoke fragrances. The fragrance is unisex and based on the thousand-year-old oriental journey of oud. Black III leads the senses with the refreshing citrus scent of its top notes Bergamot and fruity aroma of Spearmint. The scent then evokes memories through its heart notes comprising of aristocratic Leather and Drywood. The sweet scents of its base notes; Vanilla, Moss, Patchouli, and Sandal sensualise the fragrance, adding to its attractive and exotic olfactory traits. The bottleâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s packaging was inspired by the grandiose Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque. The intricate details mirror the meticulous attributes of the Grand Mosqueâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s arches and domes; adding to the exclusivity and exquisiteness of the fragrance. www.ajarabia.com

Calvin Klein Euphoria Gold for Men Masculine and rich, Euphoria Gold for Men by Calvin Kline is powerfully seductive with an intriguing sensuality. The fragrance opens with the invigorating freshness of spicy ginger, accented with a sophisticated touch of primofiore lemon. The heart of the scent is compelling and sensual, blending the aromatic warmth of cinnamon bark with intriguing notes of basil and honey. The dry down exudes the headiness of rich amber, heightened with patchouli and vanilla for an intense and lasting impression. Maintaining the architectural lines and contours of the signature fragrance, the packaging is newly cast in a sophisticated palette of golden bronze and black. The bottle is a block of weighted, semi-clear glass, outlined with metallic gold accents and topped with a polished black cap. www.calvinklein.com/shop/en/ck/fragrances

Sunshine for Man, Amouage International luxury fragrance brand Amouage, has launched Sunshine for Man, a new scent inspired by the movement of an eclipse. Giving a retro-chic impression, the fragrance begins with a foundation of aromatic lavender. When blended with Everlasting Flower, it creates an intense and thrilling silage, which finally evolves into an alluding darkness with tones of Orange Brandy and Juniper Berries. The multifacetted fragrance is intensified with the warmth and dramatic texture of Tonka Bean. Sunshine Man is presented in Amouageâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s iconic clear glass crystal bottle with gold foil illustrations of swirling flares in rhapsody around the Amouage insignia. The refreshing white cap is accented with a golden Swarovski crystal to resemble a shining overhead sun at high noon. www.amouage.com

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Armand Basi Wild Forest Wild Forest is the new masculine fragrance by Armand Basi, inspired by one of natureâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s most noble elements: wood. The scent opens with a cloud of top notes of spices that reveal the strength of pepper combined with the elegant touch of warm, intense nutmeg. The middle note unites violet leaves and rich cedar wood, while the bottom note has a clear Oriental influence through hints of vanilla, softened by leather and bold incense. Exotic patchouli and woody grey amber give the fragrance personality, with a last hint of delicate musk. The design is pure geometrical engineering: a transparent glass bottle embedded with a layer of untreated wood, which has been subject to the Programme for the Endorsement of Forest Certification (PEFC), the main international association for sustainable forest management. www.armandbasi.com

Trance, J.F. Schwarzlose Berlin J.F.Schwarzlose Berlin has presented another enchanting fragrance from their latest line: Trance. An oriental fragrance bearing the heart of Berlin within, Trance features a superfluous blend of soft Turkish rose and Agarwood Oud, infused together with labdanum and Artemisia. Eccentric, extravagant and iridescent, Trance is a highly concentrated Eau de Parfum that exudes the elegance, minimalism and stark contrasts that make the soul of Berlin. A hypnotic perfume, Trance is as moving and intense as it is ambiguous, that reflects the ambiguous relationship of Berlin with modern finesse and traditional glory. The fragrance epitomises the transition from sullen and feminine rose to a heady, strong oud that is as intoxicating and as alarming as the transition from innocent curiosity to a state of deep desire. www.schwarzloseberlin.com/en/fragrances

Aube Rubis, Atelier Des Ors Atelier Des Ors reinterprets the heritage of French Haute Parfumerie with a modern new line of alluring and sophisticated fragrances. Inspired by dawn and the circle of life, Aube Rubis is an attractive and addictive woody fruity fragrance. The sparkling prelude of grapefruit and blackcurrant is built around the very faceted and luxurious patchouli Prisma. The scent closes on a rich and warm accord, with the sensual elegance of sage and dressed with sensual and elegant vetiver. The bottle’s back embossing symbolises sun, light and radiance. Gold conveys the noble and eternal side of the brand, while the bottle shape reflects its addictive, sensual side. The logo, embossed on the heavy cap like a craftsman’s seal, confirms the artistic and aesthetic dimension of Atelier Des Ors. www.atelierdesors.com

Boss Bottled Oud

Mat Stone by Masaki Matsushima, Panouge Panouge, an international beauty brand, has introduced their new masculine fragrance, Mat Stone by Masaki Matsushima. The fragrance has been created with fresh mineral aromas and ingredients that are inspired by the touch of white marble. The scent leaves a fresh woody musk sensation that evokes contemporary mineral freshness. The bottle resembles the cooling sensation similar to that of a marble’s surface, and adorns it with all the attributes of a protective masculinity. Mat Stone is a blend of citrus and spicy notes of lime, angelica and cardamom. At the heart, a violet leaf note oscillates between the frozen shiver of Mojito and the woodsy electric heat. At the base note, a mineral musk envelops cashmere woods with a soft strength, giving the overall aroma a beckon of freshness. www.panouge.com

Boss Bottled Oud is a magnificent amber fougere, in which spicy, animalic and leather facets are fused with expressive oud woods. Delectable fruit notes of bergamot, apple and plum rest on an aromatic elixir of geranium, clove and cinnamon. This is fused with rare saffron and evocative labdanum resin. The scent’s base is pure animal magnetism: precious oud laced with smoky cypriol and gaiac wood, rich in leather, resting on the deepest and driest woods. The result is a sumptuous and utterly compelling fragrance. Prized as a contemporary classic across the globe, Boss Bottled boasts a sixteen year-heritage, with over 57 million bottles sold worldwide. The flacon for Boss Bottled Oud echoes the design of Boss Bottled, but rendered in plush gold and brown; and the effect is that of the sleekest splendour. www.hugoboss.com

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Special Feature

Trussardi Black Extreme Trussardi Uomo has become Black Extreme, with a new masculine and mysterious fragrance for the successful modern man. Tradition and affinities are evoked through timeless elegant design that is an expression of the brand and Italian excellence. Based on aristocratic Black Leather accord with facets of fine Dark Woods, Vetiver and Patchouli, the fragrance expresses direct, sophisticated sensuality. It features a striking contrast between the extreme freshness of Italian Lemon and a vigorous Marine Accord. The fruity Plum note enveloped by Italian Iris enhances the unique, moody character of the fragrance with dark, elegant nuances. The opaque black bottle reflects the elegance and sophisticated allure of the brand, while the extraordinarily shiny black-on-black trim highlights the very attractive design. A tribute to the past with an eye on the future, it is the perfect balance of modernity and tradition. www.trussardi.com

Bottega Veneta pour Homme For the brandâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s signature masculine fragrance, Bottega Veneta pour Homme is a fresh, intriguing and understated fragrance, with the power to enchant. Woven with rare materials, the fragrance has a woody and leathery aroma. The core is distilled from a fragrant resin, extracted from the Cistus plant that can only be collected between May and August. For centuries known as the â&#x20AC;&#x153;dew of heavenâ&#x20AC;? or ancient substance of Myrrh, it is this precious Andalusian Labdanum that lends the fragrance its complex, rare depth. Refreshing aromatic top notes are Calabrian Bergamot, Siberian Pine and Juniper, followed by warm heart notes of Jamaican Pimento, Canadian Fir Balsam and Mediterranean Clary Sage. The base notes of Indonesian Patchouli and a nostalgic leather accord, add texture and elegance. The bottle was inspired by Venetian glasswork and the traditional Italian carafe, and designed with an eye for timelessness. www.bottegaveneta.com

Delicateness is the hallmark of elegance in this collection of fragrances for women. Bringing together a harmony of olfactory notes to surprise and delight the senses, each one expresses modern femininity that is full of charisma, aura, allure and luxury.

Revealing Radiance Euphoria Gold, Calvin Kline A reflection of gold at its most radiant moment, Euphoria Gold by Calvin Klein is a fruity floriental, with shimmering lightness and an air of sparkling sensuality. The fragrance opens with sun-drenched apricot, illuminated by golden fruity notes of kumquat and juicy tangerine for an aura of luminous warmth. The heart blooms with vibrant daffodils and lush gardenias, lightly laced with a golden touch of honey. Warm and alluring, white patchouli is blended with sandalwood and musk for a smooth dry down. Luxuriously cast in a golden finish, the fragranceâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s bottle is illuminated with sleek curves and a glamorous, gilded touch. www.calvinklein.com/shop/en/ck/fragrances

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Special Feature

Bottega Veneta Knot Tomas Maier’s vision for Bottega Veneta’s new fragrance, Knot, conjures an escape to the Italian Riviera. The scent of peonies and the redolence of clementine trees combine with the essence of freshly laundered linens. As with Bottega Veneta’s signature fragrance, the Knot’s bottle is inspired by Venetian glasswork. Combining soft, rounded curves and powerful lines, the bottle is an object of timeless beauty and pleasing simplicity. As the fragrance’s name is an homage to Bottega Veneta’s beloved Knot clutch, Tomas Maier designed the cap to echo the bag’s iconic knot-shaped closure. The result is a vessel with the luxurious feel of the finest of jewellery. www.bottegaveneta.com

Oud & Rose Eau de Parfum, L’Occitane en Provence International skincare and beauty brand L’Occitane has added an Arabian touch to its signature French creations, with the Oud & Rose collection – a range exclusively created for the Middle East. The range is part of La Collection de Grasse, named after the Mediterranean city of Grasse in Provence, known as the perfume capital of the world. The city’s expertise in the creation of original fragrances with precious ingredients from distant lands shines through with this captivating collection. Grasse’s most beautiful flower forms the heart of the Oud & Rose fragrance, while its oriental nature is emphasised with Vanilla, dried Patchouli leaves and Oud wood. An authentic Mashrabiya design decorates the precious bottle, which contains the amber-coloured parfum. me.loccitane.com

Armand Basi Rose Glacée The new fragrance by Idesa Parfums is born from a creative concept built on the emotions caused by geometry and a favourite flower, the rose. ‘Glacée’, meaning frozen, symbolises the rose trapped in ice: cool and frosted. The top note is a sparkling green apple in alliance with fruit and citrus notes of grapefruit and lemon. A bright and feminine middle note has the Piaget rose reigning supreme and the bottom note harmonises light woods, amber and musk crystals. The packaging represents the fragrance’s duality. On the one hand, a feminine and delicate design in pink hues with a flower as the main element; on the other, a modern and unconventional touch of a geometric paper rose. The bottle is light and feminine, with a rounded shape. Made of opaque, glazed glass, with a frosted pink tint, its tinged finish reflects the icy freshness of the fragrance. www.armandbasi.com

Chloé Eau de Toilette Chloé Eau de Toilette cultivates every syllable of its predecessors’ distinctive beauty, but from the first notes, its freshness is what makes it different. Rose is the centre of attention, around which is a special bouquet. Bergamot piques curiosity, then, an accord of magnolia mixed with gardenia, a fresh aroma with a subtle hint of lemon curls around the white rose. The bottle of Chloé Eau de Toilette stays true to the signature glass and metal bottle of its elders. Inspired by the Fortuny pleat in the Chloé collections, it displays its unique distinctive relief and the genuine silverdipped band at its collar. A white ribbon tied in a simple knot around the neck evokes the tender white rose inside. With its delicate hue of beige rosé, the perfume matches the box, hemmed with an elegant white trim. www.chloe.com/en/content/chloé

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Special Feature

Chopard Rose Malaki The spicy floral Chopard Rose Malaki is a sensual tribute to one of the most revered ingredients in the ancient art of perfumery: the Rose. The Damascena Rose is one of the oldest cultivars in existence, renowned for its voluptuous, almost carnal scent and its addictive honeyed undertones. This is artfully facetted by saffron, which carries a slightly leathery quality, reminiscent of suede. The perfume closes on Atlas cedar, which possesses a warm and enveloping tonality. Slightly camphorated, it creates a captivating trail that enriches the Rose Malaki experience. The pure lines of Chopard Rose Malaki’s heavy glass bottle and the anthracite sobriety of its solid metal cap allude to Chopard’s watch-making origins. www.chopard.com/rose-malaki-95201-0384

Trussardi Donna The Trussardi Donna fragrance releases a luminous fruity aura based on the vivacious citrus notes of zesty Yuzu and slightly tart Citron, offset by the dewy accents of Water Fruits. The delicate overtones of white flowers in the heart notes and cheery, light Orange Blossoms blend with chic Jasmine Tea and ethereal Water Lilies. Intense woody undertones in the dry down make Trussardi Donna irresistibly appealing. The combination of sensuous White Patchouli, intense Cedar Wood and creamy Sandalwood creates a surprising layered effect. The bottle has a simple, airy design. Exquisite gold trim on the delicate white bottle adds an alluring, sensuous touch. A gold-plated zamak cap, embellished with the Trussardi emblem, protects the perfume’s precious fragrance. The name of the perfume is written in elegant gold. www.trussardi.com/us/perfume_cod46234947kg.html

Pirouette, Angel Schlesser The Spanish brand Angel Schlesser reveals women’s fragrance Pirouette, which has a floral-oriental composition inspired by the magical world of ballet. Fragrant notes line up to reflect the gracious moves of a ballet in a completely romantic way. The composition is created from fresh notes of bergamot and black currant, offering a luminous, fruity introduction to a blend of plum and rose. The heart is floral and very opulent; composed of freesia, iris, lily of the valley, orchid and elegant jasmine posing a contrast to seductive cocoa scents. The base closes with sensual white musk, amber, cedar, vanilla and patchouli contributing to the warm, exotic trail on the skin. Pirouette comes in a pale pink bottle with a black cap, a truly feminine design accentuating a woman’s delicacy and gracefulness. www.angelschlesser.com

Olympéa, Paco Rabanne Architect by training, designer by passion, perfumer on the forefront, Paco Rabanne has always been synonymous with boldness and modernism. Olympéa is a unique olfactory adventure, at the crossroads between the sensuality of a salty vanilla accord and the freshness of floral notes. A fresh oriental in which green mandarin awakens the senses, boosted by the floral and aquatic essences of ginger lily and hydroponic jasmine – jasmine grown in water. The design of the bottle features strong symbolism. A perfect circle, similar to the sacred talismans and divine attributes, is set on a gadrooned, coppery metal crown. Like a jewel, the stopper is removed to discover the fragrance, emphasising the bottle’s preciousness. www.pacorabanne.com

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Perfume

A Library of Scents

he latest offering from luxury perfume house Amouage, Opus IX is a soulful interpretation of the Camellia flower, the accord of which was created especially for the fragrance as the flower has no scent in its natural form. Fused with Black Pepper and Jasmine, the Camellia accord reveals a warming, free-spirited aura in the top notes, while Gaiac Wood, Beeswax and Leather combine in a contradictory heart. A final illusion of the woody, floral fragrance is created by a euphoric base of Grey Amber, Vetiver and Civet. Creative Director Christopher Chong explores the battle between the heart’s desires and the mind’s logic and reasoning. By playing with textures of the opulent floral spectrum juxtaposed with the carnal desire of the animalic and leather notes, Chong depicts discord in the trials of love.

Amouage’s ninth volume in the Library Collection, Opus IX, studies the human nature of love and sacrifice, inspired by one of Opera’s greatest romances, Giuseppe Verdi’s La Traviata, an adaptation of the novel La Dame aux Camelias, ‘The Lady of the Camellias’. Epitomising Amouage’s brand DNA of culture and intellect, Creative Director Christopher Chong, masterfully composed the fragrance to tell a story of betrayal and redemption as portrayed by the iconic Maria Callas in the 1958 Lisbon production of the Opera. Chong speaks to Durrah to tell us more.

Opus IX’s bottle is a deep red with specks of gold. The tome-shaped box is designed with two interpretations of the Camellia flower: white, pure and innocent on one side to represent the virtue of love, and a broken and aged red flower on the other to reflect the destruction of betrayal. A poetic homage to olfactory experiences, Amouage’s Library Collection is a celebration of integrity, creativity and virtuosity. Each of the nine fragrances is an ethereal instrument that reveals the many facets of a discovery in human nature. The Library Collection’s fragrances defy categorization, transcend gender and inspire the wearer to compose their own unique narrative. www.amouage.com

01 The Amouage Library collection 02 Creative Director Christopher Chong

Interview with Christopher Chong Opus continues its journey with the launch of Opus IX. Tell us the story of this chapter. As you know, the Camellia flower has no scent in its natural form. This gives me creative freedom to compose Opus IX based on my own interpretation of what the Camellia flower would smell like. I use Black Pepper and Jasmine in the top notes, along with Gaiac Wood, Beeswax and Leather. Base notes of Grey Amber, Vetiver and Civet were also used to create the woody, floral fragrance. By combining textures of opulent floral notes with animalic and leather notes, I am able to depict the discord in the trials of love.

Is the traditionally ‘Arab’ scent what makes your creations unique? I don’t stereotype, therefore I tend not to focus on one culture or anything too specific, but rather take inspirations from all the places I’ve visited and my life experiences. They are like amalgamations or fragments of my life.

What dictates the elements of any new creation? I think everything that happens in our lives can be translated to a much more intimate level. When creating a perfume, I interpret everything that I see and feel into scents. My life experiences and music are my inspirations, and I express this through a series of narratives. I like to describe it as bottling art and emotions.

Christopher, no one can doubt for a second that you are the corner stone of the global success of Amouage. Where are you taking it next?

I see every new perfume as a new beginning because creativity is all about exploring the unknown and discomfort. Sunshine Man, part of The Midnight Flower Collection, is released in September. I am very excited about The Midnight Flower Collection, which holds special meaning to me and will develop this collection more in depth in the future. In 2016, we will release Opus X in March and then the excitement of the year will see the release of a man’s perfume and a woman’s perfume in the mainline collection.

Amouage seems to set the trend in the whole Middle East perfume industry. What are you thoughts on this? As a global brand, we focus more on luxury than cultural specificity. We have never placed too much emphasis on one cultural identity or a region of the world. You can say that we embrace the world by being inclusive and not exclusive. Our customers are sophisticated, confident, and internationally aware. Most importantly, they’re not afraid to wear something different that makes them stand out from the crowd. 02

Many global brands have their versions of the Arabic Oud. When will we see the Amouage Oud version? We tend not to follow the global trend, and therefore, you won’t see an Amouage Oud perfume. Our brand DNA is about creating something different and unique rather than trailing behind a trend. Our customers are drawn to Amouage because they understand and appreciate the fine art of perfumery and thus they come to us for scents that have a philosophical air to them. It is about a way of life that is beyond convention.

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Bags

Exquisite Style Twin Peaks Bag, Dsquared2 The women’s fall/winter 2015 Tribal Aristocracy collection from Dsquared2 exemplifies the enchantment of Canadian Indian tribes and the confident attitude of the British aristocracy. In a captivating play on contrasts, an ode to America’s native tribes meets the noble spirit of old Europe. Magic and mysterious tribal influences meld with royal references in a bold, eccentric aesthetic, revealing luxurious materials and high-end artisanal details. The dark colour palette of regal English livery is juxtaposed with the warm tones of a Canadian earthy autumnal forest. Dsquared2’s iconic Twin Peaks bag reveals tribal decorations with an edgy touch, and a colourful design embellished with dazzling feathers and fringing. www.dsquared2.com

Born from the latest collections of iconic fashion houses, each of these high-fashion “it” bags are the very essence of style. Beauty is expressed in the finest materials from leathers to fabrics to precious jewels, and with a unique touch and well thought out functionality, the creations are true examples of timelessness.

Mini Sugar, Lanvin The latest addition to the family of Lanvin bags, the Lanvin Mini Sugar has all the makings of a new “it” bag. The small version of its bigger, more classical counterpart, it features two pockets whose dimensions have been reworked for practical use. Smitten with lightness, this new timeless classic can transport the female essentials: keys, smartphone, wallet and make-up. A companion for nights out, it has all the characteristics that made Lanvin Sugar so successful; quality leather, graphic stitching, fine chain links and an embossed gold Lanvin logo. For winter 2015, it is adorned with shocking pink calfskin or classic black, burgundy velvety calfskin, cherry red leather with trim details from the catwalk show, black or pink ostrich leather or garnet snakeskin. store.lanvin.com/us/women/bags

Signature Flap Cover Bag, Bulgari-Bulgari Standing on 40 years of tradition, the Bulgari-Bulgari collection is able to reach higher into the creative sky from its firm foundation. With the new plexi-bar “flap-covers” the sense of history is preserved while the eye is treated to a harmonic contrast, allowing the classic logo to shine from the softened exterior of its calf leather or python. This Signature Flap Cover Bag features ocean turquoise calf leather with light gold-plated brass parts, a black perspicio bar, an iconic double logo motif and a magnetic closure finished in black enamel. Three gussets and one open pocket provide versatile storage and the leather and chain strap is adjustable and slides for double wearability. www.bulgari.com

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Bags

Trapeze Handbag, Paule Ka Made from 100% leather, the Trapeze Handbag is the latest statement bag from designer Paule Ka. The Raspberry, Azure and Aniseed colourways are made from the grained calfskin leather throughout, while the sides and top of the Multi, Blush and Black colourways are in crocodile print leather with the rest in grained calfskin. The iconic bag comes with matching leather luggage tags and the Paule Ka logo embossed on the front. Zipped internal pockets, zip fastening, and a removable shoulder strap all add functionality to the stunning aesthetic of this piece. pauleka.com

Freya, Mulberry The Freya is the new sleek and slouchy Hobo design from Mulberry, embodying casual, contemporary elegance. Designed as much for practical comfort as irresistible appeal, the Freya has an equestrian-inspired top handle that fits easily over the shoulder or rests in the crook of the arm. The smaller size option also features a detachable easy-to-wear shoulder strap. Beautifully constructed to hang with an elegant slouch, the Freya is made from soft and supple Calf Leather in the new season colour palette of classic Black, romantic Rose Petal, timeless Taupe and cool Steel Blue. www.mulberry.com

Mini Pliage Héritage, Longchamp Combining extreme luxury and sublime frivolity, the new Pliage Héritage from Longchamp comes in a mini size, offering a concentration of know-how and excellence. The bolder, extremely joyful Tricolore bags boast a daring selection of refined shades in Pebble, Navy blue or Ecru, set off on the gussets by a lively luminous Yellow, intense Coral or a delicately subtle Natural hue. The height of refinement, the flap and trimmings are crafted in Black to highlight this strikingly stylish version. More than ever, in this mini version the Pliage Héritage displays its uniquely distinctive graphic silhouette. Carried in the hand or worn across the body with its shoulder strap, it is suitable for any occasion. www.longchamp.com

Tessie Tote, Mulberry The Tessie Tote is an elegant and classic tote designed by English fashion label Mulberry to be eternally useful and age beautifully. Showcasing Mulberry’s exceptional leather craftsmanship, the understated design has contrast stitching and a tab to secure the main compartment, finished with signature Tree logo hardware. The soft bovine leather has a fine grain effect, which is lightly finished to protect the grain surface, but will retain natural characteristics as it ages, making each product unique. The well-known bag comes in many colourways, including this Steel Blue Soft Small Grain Matt With Rivets. www.mulberry.com/shop/tessie

Nappa Leather Palazzo Shoulder Bag, Versace The Versace women’s fall/winter collection 2015 showcases a powerful silhouette in vivid primary colours of red, yellow and green, along with classic black. Geometric shapes run throughout, whether it’s a circle-cut skirt, the triangle of a flared pant, or the circular shapes cut into silk cady dresses. The Nappa Leather Palazzo Shoulder Bag is no exception, made from polished nappa leather with a gold chain strap and Medusa head feature. Made in Italy, the bag has a timeless design and is the perfect compact yet spacious size, making it the perfect accessory. us.versace.com/women

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Bags

Ace Satchel, Coach Coach’s latest collection takes an honest and unprecious approach to luxury, with the ultimate desirability of leathers and fleeces in their most elemental form. With a name inspired by motorcycle gang nicknames, the Ace Satchel combines the tough-girl edge of biker jacket details with the richness and refinement of Coach’s iconic natural calf leather. Hand-laced handles give the cult wardrobe staple a thoroughly modern silhouette, and an artisanal finish that ties it back to the brand’s unique heritage of luxury leather craftsmanship. A combination of tradition and authenticity modernised and made personal, the burgundy satchel has an individuality born of New York City. www.coach.com

ALBONDOQIYA, FEATHERS ALBONDOQIYA is the latest luxury handbag offering from FEATHERS. The Emirati brand has presented a new elegant handbag for women called ALBONDOQIYA, which is the old name of Venice in Arabic. ALBONDOQIYA was inspired by a handbag design by Italian inventor, architect and painter Leonardo da Vinci in 1497, which was never produced in his lifetime. FEATHERS re-introduced the design today in a modern and elegant piece for luxury lovers. The bag is available in 4 colours: black, chocolate brown, grey and peach. Each bag is handmade in UAE using genuine calf leather. www.feathers-fashion.com

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Masterpiece

Artist of the Maharajas Born in Kota, Rajasthan, Bhim Singh Hada is a self-taught artist who holds great command and mastery over his skills in creating realistic paintings. 01 Popular amongst royal families, oil on canvas is Hadaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s favourite medium, although he practices in a number of other contemporary techniques and styles as well. In the past Hada has actively participated in numerous national and state level group exhibitions and art camps and his paintings are in many prestigious private and state owned collections, both India and abroad. Durrah speaks with Bhim Singh Hada to hear more about his journey as an artist.

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Masterpiece

01 ‘The woman at my ancestral door’ 02 Portrait of Thakur Ajit Singh Ji 03 ‘Bright morning vista of Amber Fort’ 04 B S Hada with his painting ‘Tuskers on the Ramp of Amber Fort’ 05 In the lap of Aravali, Amber Fort

As a self-taught artist, where did you draw inspiration from when learning to paint? Right from the time as a kid when I learned to hold chalk in my hand, I was so passionate about drawing that wherever I could find space I would draw something, be it floor, walls, slate or anywhere. Elephants, horses and lions were my favourites. By the time I was 8 or 9 years old, I started drawing human faces and figures. I would copy from calendars and pictures at home on my slate with chalk. I had got good command at 12 years of age, I could copy any picture easily, and I started doing portraits from the age of 15-16 years.

What attracts you most to producing realistic paintings, and have you ever done more abstract work? When a person becomes confident doing a particular kind of work, then he tries to raise the benchmark and expertise, with time his skill keeps on getting better. This skill motivates him to move towards perfection and there is no end to it. Realistic work provides a chance to learn every aspect of the art of painting, so I believe perhaps this is the reason behind my pursuit of realistic work. However, I equally enjoy doing abstract work as much as realistic and sometimes I take pleasure in doing abstracts to change my mood. I have created a series of work with simplified figures.

Kota. At this time -Rashtradoot, a leading newspaper from Jaipur, offered me to become Head of the Art Department for their weekly magazine. I joined the newspaper in 1984 and moved to Jaipur, where I worked for 20 years. Now I give all of my time to painting.s

What has been your proudest moment as an artist so far? One incident comes to mind. When I was 9 years old, I made a portrait of my father’s close friend in person with chalk and slate. He was so happy and impressed to see it that he gave me 10 rupees as prize, which was a big amount at the time. This gave me confidence. Now the praise people give to me during exhibitions makes me happy and inspires me. Many royal families in India vouch for my name for portraits, and since they understand art their appreciation means a lot to me.

How long does it take you to produce a piece of art and how many processes do you go through to complete it?

When did you first become recognised for your work?

Since I work mainly with oil on canvas as a medium I will talk about that. It starts with sketching on the canvas. After sketching, the first colour is filled which forms the base. When it dries up I do a second coating, gradually making corrections. Balancing colour and form in this way continues until finishing. But with oil as a medium, every colour attempt is done only after a previous layer is completely dry. The painting is finished only when I am totally satisfied with it, which may take 2-3 to 4-5 weeks at a time.

By the time I was 18, I had already started making commissioned portrait works. Several design studios used to come to me for graphics design work, so during my graduation I started my own Graphic Design studio in

Do you produce your artwork from photographs, drawings, memories, or in person?

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Masterpiece 06 Jaleb chowk Safari, Amber Fort 07 Thakur Gaj Singh Alsisar, Rajasthan 08 â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Way from Diwan-e-aamâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;

For portraits I prefer doing in person, but these days nobody has the time and patience for that. Wherever a photograph is available I go by that. However, sometimes very old photographs also come to me from royal families and sometimes these are not in great condition and you canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t see details of faces. I use my imagination to recreate faces, costumes and ornaments.

paintings of forts I have made. The villages nearby and the traditional dresses of Kota also inspired my paintings and choice of subjects, and I have painted many portraits of village folks.

What subjects do you enjoy painting the most and why?

Observation and to look at any subject closely, its proportions, what is the subject and why is it so. The analysis and attempt to understand all this is very important rather than just copying things. One can also learn by analysing techniques and styles used in the paintings by great masters.

Horses are my favourite subjects, but if we look from the point of view of learning, then human figures are the most challenging and also my favourite. Painting human figures involves all the problems; be it proportions or expression of emotions.

How has your hometown in Kota, Rajasthan influenced your work? In English Kota means fort. Kota, where I spent my younger days, was a town that was habituated inside a fort, but now of course the city has grown out of this. The high walls of the fort used to entice me, perhaps it led to my attraction to ancient architecture, which reflects in the

What qualities does one need to possess to produce such intriguing pieces of art like yours?

Where can people see your artwork today? My paintings are in the collections of many royal families of Rajasthan. Many of them are displayed in the Leela Kempinsky hotel, Bangalore; Alsisar group of heritage hotels, Jaipur; Laxmi Vilas Palace, Bharatpur; Mandawa House, Deogadh; and in individual collections. 06

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Expensive Taste

The world’s most expensive spice by weight, saffron and its cultivation spans more than three millennia. Widely used in Persian, Indian, European, Arab, and Turkish cuisines, saffron is also used as a dye, in perfumes, and for Ayurvedic and other natural medicinal practices. Durrah takes a closer look at this intriguing and exotic spice.

affron’s aroma is often described by connoisseurs as reminiscent of metallic honey with grassy or hay-like notes, while its taste has also been noted as hay-like and sweet. The luminous golden orange colour is used to dye foods, fabrics and even perfume, and it has long been used for its natural medicinal properties. The spice is harvested from the dried stigma of the Crocus Sativus Linneaus, also called the fall flowering or saffron crocus, in tiny threadlike strands. Although it is the most expensive spice by weight, just a few threads can flavour and colour an entire dish. Like most all spices and herbs, “whole” is more powerful than ground. Whole saffron must be prepared before use, and experts often recommend soaking the strands in very hot milk or water before using them to help release the bright, rich yellow tones and distinctive flavour. Saffron is most often used in dishes from South Asia, parts of Europe, and the Middle East. It is considered essential for French

01 Saffron’s vibrant orange golden hue 02 Safrron is harvested from the dried stigma of the Crocus Sativus Linneaus 03 Soaking the saffron to extract the flavour 04 A field of saffron bearing flowers

bouillabaisse, and the spice is often used to flavour and colour rice dishes, stews, and fish, among other foods. The documented history of saffron cultivation spans more than three millennia. Ancient Persians cultivated Persian saffron in Derbena, Isfahan, and Khorasan by the 10th century BC. At such sites, saffron threads were woven into textiles, ritually offered to divinities, and used in dyes, perfumes, medicines, and body washes. Saffron threads would thus be scattered across beds and mixed into hot teas as a curative for bouts of melancholy. A golden-coloured, water-soluble fabric dye was distilled from saffron stigmas in India, and shortly after Buddha died, his priests made saffron the official colour for their robes. The dye has been used for royal garments in several cultures since. During his Asian campaigns, Alexander the Great used Persian saffron in his infusions, rice, and baths as a curative for battle wounds. Alexander’s troops imitated the practice from the Persians and brought saffron-bathing to Greece. Conflicting theories explain saffron’s arrival in South

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Asia. Kashmiri and Chinese accounts date its arrival anywhere between 2500–900 years ago. Phoenicians then marketed Kashmiri saffron as a dye and a treatment for melancholy, and its use in foods and dyes subsequently spread throughout South Asia. Documentation of saffron’s use over the span of 4,000 years in the treatment of some 90 illnesses has also been uncovered. Saffron-based pigments have been found in 50,000 year-old depictions of prehistoric places in northwest Iran. The Sumerians later used wild-growing saffron in their remedies and magical potions. Today it is cultivated chiefly in Spain, France, Sicily, Italy (on the lower spurs of the Apennines Range), and in Iran and Kashmir. The three stigmas are handpicked from each flower, spread on trays, and dried over charcoal fires for use as a food flavouring and colouring. A pound (0.45 kilogram) of saffron represents 75,000 blossoms. During various periods throughout history, saffron has been worth much more than its weight in gold; and it is still the most expensive spice in the world.

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Masterpiece

Taking place from 13-16 October, ArtBahrain is an internationally minded art fair that will act as platform to share the Bahraini artistic perspective with the rest of the world. The much-awaited art fair is excited to announce three appointments to aid the event. Middle East Art Consultant Janet Rady is now the Head of the Speakers Panel and Education Programme, Renaud Siegmann is Head of VIP Relations and Dr. Alka Raghuvanshi is the Communications Editor.

Artistic Expression

eld under the patronage of Her Royal Highness Priness Sabkia bint Ibraham Al Khalifa, Wife of the King and President of the Supreme Council for Women and a patron of the arts, ArtBahrain is organised by Pico International Bahrain and curated by Art Select. With the first edition set to take place in the Kingdom from 13-16 October 2015, the latest exciting announcement states Middle East Art Consultant Janet Rady is now the Head of the Speakers Panel and Education Programme, Renaud Siegmann is Head of VIP Relations and Dr. Alka Raghuvanshi is the Communications Editor. The trio, who are revered in the art world, have an expert knowledge of Middle Eastern and global art, and will join the ArtBahrain team to provide support for the upcoming art fair that will play host to 200 international art collectors, 2,000 VIP clients and approximately 10,000 visitors.

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Culture 01 Ugo Nespolo, Le Pareti 02 Jirapat Tatsanasomboon, Red Brushstroke, 2012. Acrylic on canvas 03 Pham An Hai, Teapot Dream, Shades of Grey. Oil on Canvas 04 Erna Goudbeek, Horseracing in Bahrain, 2014. Oil on panel

Janet Rady is a fine art consultant with over 20 years experience in international art markets, and she currently represents a wide range of cutting edge Contemporary Arab and Iranian artists whose work references the Middle East. Rady is an active advocate for the boom in Middle Eastern arts. Renaud Siegmann, a former arts journalist and architecture critic, brings a wealth of knowledge in international art markets after 15 years of experience writing about global art. Siegmann’s most relevant role was the Commissioner General of Marrakech Art Fair in 2010. Dr. Alka Raghuvanshi is India’s first trained art curator; a passionate advocate of all forms of art, she has been actively involved in their propagation. A writer, artist, journalist and curator, she has left indelible marks as the art world’s most proactive participant. ArtBahrain is a celebration of a history and culture

rooted in artistic expression. The art fair is designed to showcase the very best the country has to offer, and bring the best of the international arts world to Bahrain. Kaneka Subberwal, Co-founder of ArtBahrain says, “It is wonderful to have Janet, Renaud and Dr Raghuvanshi on board with us at ArtBahrain. All three have a world-class depth of knowledge of Middle Eastern culture, I am confident this can help stimulate ArtBahrain further as the leading international platform for artists in the Middle East and across the globe.” The event is set to be a culminating point for artists, art collectors and art lovers. Internationally minded, the art fair will serve as a platform where artists and galleries from around the world will share space, ideas and inspiration with local artists. www.art-bahrain.com

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The art fair is designed to showcase the very best the country has to offer, and bring the best of the international arts world to Bahrain.

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07 05 Khaled Ben Slimane, Ascension, 2008-2009. Acrylic on canvas 06 Erna Goudbeek, Ships of the Desert, 2015. Oil on panel 07 Hanibal Srouji, Boogie Woogie II, 2014. Acrylic on canvas

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Masterpiece

Bahraini artist Omar Al-Rashid’s artistic creativity is dependent on a deep-rooted heritage and is inspired by the culture of his home country, as well as Islam. This has resulted in the production of exceptionally innovative art. Durrah speaks with Omar as he describes his artistic motivations, processes and inspirations.

Colourful Creation

mar Al-Rashid, a prominent Bahraini artist, has proved throughout his career to be a prudent experimenter. From the beginning of his journey, he knew that his emotional inclination to heritage, customs and tradition could restrict him to the traditional practice of art. However, his dedication to his heritage also caused him to make the conscious decision to dissociate himself from the craze of the ‘Plastic Artists’ who were greatly influenced by experimental western art and were using western ideas, thoughts and materials in their art work. Therefore, Al-Rashid’s work is perceived as semi-abstract and semi-novel even though its closeness to reality is prevalent. He has achieved a balance between form and content, as well as originality and modernity. Born in Muharraq in 1966, AI-Rashid was inspired by the bright, vibrant colours of the seascape. Muharraq was the first place where his passion for Bahrain’s

customs and folklore developed. His second artistic inspiration was his mother. As a child, he monitored her movement, traditional dress and endless folk tales. It is because of this intimate association with his mother that he holds women in high respect in his work. His choice of a woman as the subject of much of his work also allows for his portrayal of intricate and detailed fabric. His female figures echo a balance between femininity and strength; strength reflected by the dominating colours and vivacious fabric. Colour dominates when darkness is present, causing the abayah to play an inferior role to the fabric that lies beneath it. He uses his ability to intertwine culture and tradition with a depiction of strong women. He positions his women so that they appear firm and secure, as the focal point of the painting. Their importance is obvious regardless of whether or not

their faces are obscured. These are not portraits but instead portrayals of symbolic women; middle-eastern women; women of the past, present and future. His latest ‘child’ drawings, as well as his focus on traditional games in Bahrain, suggest a return to an age-old tradition. They evoke a desire to document pleasant, childhood memories, and even he admits that these are his most personal works. His figures are drawn to give one the impression that he is, consciously and subconsciously, expressively returning to childhood. He renders each work in a modern and simplistic way, much like that of a child. His marks are preparatory and naive: their attraction lies in their charm and innocence. Omar AI-Rashid continues to participation in group and solo exhibition in Bahrain and internationally. www.omar-alrashid.com

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Interview with Omar Al-Rashid Can you tell us about your early days growing up in Muharraq, what it was like back then, and what motivated and developed your passion for art? Muharraq is a very unique characteristic city, it has narrow roads, houses are close to each other, and it has very friendly people. This place is rich in traditions and heritage in everything they do. Having the chance to actually live these moments during my childhood gave me a lot of inspiration for art. Also, the kindness of Muharraq people, and the very close relationship between each other, and the neighbours who were just like family. It made us grow with love and this gave a lot of positive reflection in my paintings and the topics that I choose to draw each time. All the nice occasions, which were celebrated in those old days, have carried a lot of wonderful memories in my mind, such as all the nice colours that our loved ones used to wear. Since I was in primary school, I would sketch and paint any chance I got, and when I was 15 years old my teachers discovered my talent and passion for art, especially colouring. The oil colour was my starting point at that time and this was very much appreciated by the academic teaches, who advised me to study art as a major.

You have said your fascination in depicting the abayah and female figure comes from your mother. In what ways did she inspire you, and what were her thoughts on your art? The abayah in Bahrain, and fashion that they use in the Arabian Gulf in general, is very colourful. My mother was close to me and I used to watch how she would wear her fancy colourful dresses and then cover it with a nice scarf on her head. The movement of the ladies in the neighbourhood, wearing the colourful dresses through the narrow roads in Muharraq is still

01 The Meeting. Oil on canvas 02 The artist Omar Al-Rashid 03 Portray. Acrylic on paper 04 Knight Collation 1.

Oil on canvas

Born in Muharraq in 1966, AI-Rashid was inspired by the bright, vibrant colours of the seascape.

in my memory, and has been reflected very much in my paintings by using bold rich colours, but taking into consideration the contrast and balance of the paintings.

What are some of your other favourite subjects to paint, and is there anything you have no interest in painting? Horses, modern style, traditional stories, nature, the desert, and many other colourful, fun and joyous scenes are my favourite subjects to paint. I’m not interested in painting violent, bland or sad subjects. These bring a lot of sadness and death to the soul of art that I wish to paint.

What does the mix of modernity and tradition symbolise to you in your artwork? I usually start with using several colours, spread and distributed onto the canvas to create almost ready Modern Art Paintings. Then I use this base to reflect my traditional symbols, items and figures to merge them into the painting, which allows me to present my country’s traditions into modern art. My success has been mainly from achieving this balance of modernity and tradition within my paintings.

Can you tell us about your latest artistic collection and the inspiration and meaning behind it?

My latest artist collection is named ‘Horses’. I tried throughout this collection to ignore the details of the horse and replace them with a lot of colours. I also tried to draw the horse in a new style, away from the classic way of drawing it. I love horses, they are so amazing and sometimes I ride them, especially during my studies at the university in Cairo and when I return back to Bahrain. Bahrain has some of the most unique, distinctive and authentic horses, and I was interested to highlight this throughout my paintings.

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05 The Master 1. Oil on canvas 06 Knight Collation 2. Oil on canvas 07 The Master 2. Oil on canvas

Colour plays an important part in your creations. What are your favourite colours to work with and what do they represent to you? I like to work with all types of different colours and each one has a different theme and characteristic. I try to use a lot of colour in each art creation, but I also take in consideration the balancing and contrast between warm and cold colours, by distributing them in the space and in the narrow corners of my paintings.

What is your ideal working environment? Creating art needs a peaceful and relaxed mind to enable inspired work, therefore, my family is very important, and having them around, with love. Also, positive energy, and positive thinking away from frustrations has a major impact on my creations.

As an avid experimenter, do you think your style will ever change as an artist? My style is getting more mature every time, it is developing and getting to another new dimension. Every collection has a new destination and a new area to present my style, but in a new developed, artistic way.

Where is the best place to see your work and where do you hope to exhibit in the future? My latest collection shall be in my gallery, but many of my paintings are displayed in 5-star hotels, such as the Four Season, Sofitel, The K, and Fraser Hotel. Many others are in museums, airports, and owned by important individuals. Having this success has made me proud and encouraged me to work harder to present more creative art. In future I hope to have some exhibitions in Paris and New York. I would like to have the opportunity to show my art to world.

Bringing world-class art to the Kingdom of Bahrain 13-16 October 2015 First Edition www.art-bahrain.com

art.bahrain

ArtBahrain

@art_bahrain

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Architecture 01 Timeless display cases within the store 02 Located on the ground floor of an 18th century mansion 03 The boutique’s ambience reflects brand values

Jaeger-LeCoultre, Geneva 02

2015 sees Jaeger-LeCoultre continuing to cultivate and share its passion with devotees of fine objects and Haute Horlogerie around the world. After Paris, Hong Kong, Singapore, New York and London, the Maison is inaugurating its new flagship boutique in Geneva. More than ten years after opening its first ‘embassy’ in Geneva, the brand has decided to move its emblematic boutique to 56, Rue du Rhône. Here, on the ground floor of an urban mansion built in the early 18th century and graced with freshly renovated historical arcades, Jaeger-LeCoultre has found a distinctive setting in which to present its latest creations, its iconic models as well as its entire range of collections. The location is a meeting place where collectors and connoisseurs can enjoy the pleasure of discovering the Haute Horlogerie and Haute Joaillerie models,

as well as admiring the movements created by Jaeger-LeCoultre for more than 180 years through a permanent exhibition. A watchmaker present in the boutique shares his passion with clients and welcomes them for personalised appointments. Jaeger-LeCoultre has infused its new Geneva boutique with an ambiance reflecting its identity. Noble materials, respect for a noble heritage as well as artisan-style talent all accurately convey the Brand values in terms of design, technical sophistication and refinement. Located just an hour’s drive from its Manufacture in the Vallée de Joux, the Geneva boutique nurtures special and unique ties with the “Grande Maison”. www.jaeger-lecoultre.com

Over the past several years, the following brands have attracted discerning patrons from around the globe and provided beautifully produced luxury items from jewellery, to books, to timepieces to automobiles. Now the brands offer exclusive new stores to cater to their customers, integrated into a vision that matches todayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s tastes and the energy of their premium locations.

Opulent Openings

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Architecture

04 Display cases are in natural iron with brass details made by Italian craftsmen 05 Designed by the Italian architect Mirko Pancaldi 06 Characterised by a large window overlooking the picturesque Via del Fornello

Characterised by a large window overlooking the picturesque Via del Fornello, the boutique was designed by the Italian architect Mirko Pancaldi.

Antonini, Isola Bella Lago Maggiore Antonini jewels, made exclusively in Italy, reflect a powerful bond with the city of Milan and its jewellerymaking traditions. They boast top-quality craftsmanship and powerful design contents, the attributes that have helped make Italian products widely appreciated around the world. Founded in 1919, the jewellery brand has now opened an impressive new flagship store at the marvellous Isola Bella on Lago Maggiore in Italy. Characterised by a large window overlooking the picturesque Via del Fornello, the boutique was designed by the Italian architect Mirko Pancaldi. The concept was designed to develop that of the Moscow flagship, which aims to enhance the company’s centennial heritage. The design also hallmarks the exploration and exclusivity that distinguish the brand, which is headed by creative director Sergio Antonini. Every design element emphasises the link with tradition, from the reproduction of a full wall of an eighteenth-century image by Marcantonio del Re

depicting the Isola Bella, to the furniture and display cases in natural iron with brass details made by Italian craftsmen. The sales display is inspired by the sculptural volumes of Richard Serra, referring to the artistic research of Antonini jewels. A fascinating place that offers a surprising mix of history, art and nature, Isola Bella was born as a small fishing village. Recently the picturesque area carried out a meticulous architectural restoration and enhancement, thus was born Via del Fornello. It became home to a number of small boutiques selling sophisticated products from clothing to gourmet gastronomy, giving visitors an exceptional experience. The Antonini jewellery brand is the perfect addition to the area, trading unique diamonds and superb gemstones and recognised as a ‘must have’ of the sophisticated Italian aristocracy. www.antonini.it

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Architecture

Rizzoli, New York Rizzoli has proudly opened its new flagship bookstore at 1133 Broadway in the heart of New York City’s NoMad district. Just three blocks north of Madison Square Park and steps away from myriad cultural destinations, the 5,000 square foot space occupies the ground-floor level of the historic St. James Building, dating back to the early 19th century. The interior design of the new flagship combines the Gilded Age details of the 1896 structure, and the lauded history of Rizzoli. The layout is comprised of three primary rooms – the Nave, Skylight and The Salon. The Nave, or central axis of the space, draws the eye through the length of the bookstore via a striking, black and white Belgian marble floor inspired by the Palio flags of Siena. The north wall of the Nave is comprised of three grand alcoves framed by gleaming black columns. Each alcove features original Rizzoli bookcases restored from

the 57th Street location and iconic chandeliers that graced both the Fifth Avenue and 57th Street stores illuminate overhead. The Nave leads to a release into the Skylight room, a perfect square crowned by a fine-grained pattern of glass block ceiling, which had been painted over during the World War II for blackouts. A dramatic, 18-foot red mullioned door separates The Skylight room from The Salon – a striking room with four large piers, four soaring 12-foot tall windows and intimate window benches cleverly designed to allow one to get lost in the pages of a book. The newly envisioned Rizzoli Bookstore captures the classic architectural experience for which the former bookstore locations were celebrated. www.rizzolibookstore.com

07 The storeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s impressive faĂ§ade 08 Iconic chandeliers that graced both the Fifth Avenue and 57th Street stores 09 One of the restored bookcases

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Architecture 10 The GranCabrio convertible on display at the Casa Maserati forecourt 11 Some of the Maserati Collection products on display 12 The elegant white lounge bar

The brand’s first retail store and lounge bar will be made even more prestigious by the presence of all the cars in the Maserati range

Casa Maserati, Milan Casa Maserati, the exclusive retail store and lounge bar on Piazza San Fedele in the heart of Milan, has recently opened. The new location offers the chance to purchase Maserati Collection products, and book testdrives to learn all the driving secrets and discover the performance of the models in the Maserati range. The brand’s first retail store and lounge bar will be made even more prestigious by the presence of all the cars in the Maserati range. The luxurious Quattroporte limousine, the Ghibli executive sedan, the splendid GranTurismo four-seat coupé and the GranCabrio convertible will alternate on display on the Casa Maserati forecourt. It will also be possible to book a test drive of the Quattroporte and Ghibli sedans alongside a professional instructor from former Formula 1 driver Andrea de Adamich’s Master Maserati Driving School. The elegant store, open from 10am to 10pm seven days a week, has immediately become a key location for the most glamorous events in the Milan Fashion District, and will remain in operation until the end of January. This concept store in the heart of Milan has enabled Maserati to reinforce its relationships with its corporate partners, and also feature a number of other outstanding Italian brands such as Poltrona Frau, Venini, Frigerio, Unopiù, Caffitaly and Montante. Maserati’s presence in the heart of Milan, a city particularly in tune with the brand since it shares the same pure Italian style values, also coincides perfectly with Expo 2015.

www.maserati.com

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Travel

With its successful blend of imperial tradition and contemporary creativity, Vienna has established itself as a high profile international city in a number of ways. With magnetic attraction as a cultural hub, centre of expertise, and with a globally integrated economy in the heart of Europe, Vienna is a city of sheer diversity. The Austrian capital has used its past, present, and future as a cosmopolitan capital to create an inimitable Viennese blend that attracts a wide range of visitors every year.

Something Old, Something New

ustria’s capital Vienna demonstrates its strengths as a major, high profile international city in many different ways, welcoming millions of guests each year. The city owes its universal appeal to the way it excitingly combines imperial nostalgia with a highly creative cultural scene, cultivating its precious heritage and charming traditions. Architecture dating from imperial times has left an indelible mark on the city. Magnificent edifices, predominantly in baroque, historicism (“Ringstrasse”) and art nouveau styles, and the city’s grand scale cause visitors to forget that it is the capital of the small Republic of Austria, with just under 8.5 million inhabitants. In Vienna, the romance of a long-lost empire is re-lived. However it is not only the city’s imperial architecture that renders it a place of beauty. Vienna also boasts world-renowned museums, art collections and works of art. The Kunsthistorisches Museum Wien (Museum of Fine Arts) houses the world’s largest collection of paintings by Bruegel, as well as the newly renovated Kunstkammer, a unique collection of artefacts and oddities, which reopened in 2013. Meanwhile numerous works by Gustav Klimt and Egon Schiele are exhibited in the MuseumsQuartier, a cultural attraction of international standing, located in the city

centre. This centrally located cultural complex is an architecturally fascinating combination of baroque (the former Imperial Stables) and future-oriented design by architects Ortner&Ortner. With 60,000 square meters of usable floor space on eight different levels, it is one of the ten largest cultural complexes in the world, offering a unique mix of uses. The Belvedere palaces and formal gardens make up one of Europe’s most attractive Baroque ensembles. The Upper Belvedere is home to the world’s leading collection of Austrian art, with examples spanning everything from the middle ages to the 20th century. Among the absolute highlights is the world’s largest collection of works by Gustav Klimt – including his best-known composition, The Kiss. By contrast, the Lower Belvedere and the Orangery host a constantly changing line-up of seasonal exhibitions. Vienna has traditionally accorded the arts great respect, and over the centuries has never ceased to foster creativity and attract people from all over the world. Vienna boasts 50 theatres, including four opera houses and several stage musical theatres, 150 museums, numerous galleries, and renowned drama, music and dance festivals. All this ensures an extraordinarily rich cultural program throughout the year, making the city one of Europe’s leading cultural centres.

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Vienna, as a city of music, enjoys a paramount reputation around the world. No other city has been home to so many composers of international renown. The Vienna Boys’ Choir enchants music lovers the world over. The choir’s new state-of-the-art concert hall, MuTh, located next to the boys’ school and residences in the Augarten park, opened in 2012. The lifestyle in Vienna takes on a juxtaposition of what is traditional – coffeehouses and taverns – and what is modern – events such as the Life Ball and the Festival of Electronic Music – resulting in a lifestyle that appeals to the modern tourist. A choice between relaxation and serenity, or action and stimulation, can be made depending on the mood. The Naschmarkt, Vienna’s multinational fruit and vegetable market, which also features a flea market every Saturday, has witnessed the emergence of an extraordinarily diverse gastronomic scene in its vicinity over the past years. Mariahilfer Strasse, a street linking the historic centre with Schönbrunn Palace, has been transformed into the city’s largest shopping street since 02

the completion of the U3 underground line. It is also the city’s newest pedestrian zone. During the summer, Viennese and tourists alike throng not only to Prater park with the famous Giant Ferris Wheel, but also to the Copa Cagrana on Danube Island – which boasts the Danube Island Festival, Europe’s largest free open-air party in June. Beach atmosphere can also be soaked up at the numerous riverside bathing areas along the Danube Canal where summer sun is accompanied by cool drinks. The old town’s attractions go well beyond the traditional. Anyone looking for high-end international designer fashion will find what they are looking for at Firis, Chegini, Amicis, Emis and Liska where gems from top designers line the racks. A number of big name Viennese designers also have stores in the First District. Completed in summer 2014, the Goldenes Quartier is a welcome addition to Vienna’s burgeoning luxury shopping scene, and this complex of historic buildings has attracted a glut of international celebrated labels. As for hotels, the Park Hyatt Vienna, which opened

01 Schönbrunn Palace. Courtesy of Wien Tourismus and Peter Rigaud 02 Opera: Wiener Staatsoper. Courtesy of Wien Tourismus and Christian Stemper 03 View to Museumsquartier. Courtesy of Wien Tourismus and Christian Stemper 04 View of Volksgarten, Museums and Parliament. Courtesy of Wien Tourismus and Christian Stemper

The city owes its universal appeal to the way it excitingly combines imperial nostalgia with a highly creative cultural scene, cultivating its precious heritage and charming traditions.

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in June 2014, is an integral part of the Goldenes Quartier ensemble. This luxury hotel is located in a beautifully restored historicist building that for many years served as the headquarters of a major Austrian bank. Vienna’s showpiece Ringstrasse boulevard – which celebrates a special anniversary in 2015 marking 150 years since its official opening on May 1, 1865 by Emperor Franz Joseph – is home to much of the upscale accommodation in the city, which includes traditional hotels such as the Imperial, the Bristol, the Palais Coburg Residenz and the Sacher as well as more recent additions such as Le Méridien, The Ring and the Sofitel Vienna Stephansdom, on the other side of the Danube canal. Since spring 2014 visitors to the city have had the opportunity to stay in an outstanding imperial setting. An apartment in the east wing of Schönbrunn Palace has now been converted into a 167m2 suite following a carefully monitored refurbishment project. The interiors and finishes are in keeping with the rest of the Habsburg’s former summer residence, with

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Maria-Theresa chandeliers, Stucco work and imperial damask motifs setting the tone. Stunning views of the Schönbrunner Schlosspark, Gloriette and Neptune fountain are a highlight. Viennese cuisine has made a name for itself the world over, and is always prepared according to time-honoured traditions and with a healthy dash of innovation. Steirereck in the Stadtpark is synonymous with a modern and gourmet approach to Viennese cuisine. This world-class restaurant was awarded two stars by the Michelin Guide, and has 15th place in the “World’s 50 Best Restaurants” 2015 to its credit. The Silvio Nickol Gourmet-Restaurant at the Palais Coburg also picked up two Michelin stars. The restaurants Walter Bauer, Mraz & Sohn, Konstantin Filippou, Tian, Edvard (Palais Hansen Kempinski) and Vincent were each rated 2015 with a Michelin star. A global capital city, visitors to Vienna have little difficulty finding highend international cuisine. 05

05 The Fiakers. Courtesy of Wien Tourismus / MAXUM 06 Vienna from Above, Am Graben. Courtesy of Wien Tourismus and Christian Stemper

www.vienna.info

Vienna has traditionally accorded the arts great respect, and over the centuries has never ceased to foster creativity and attract people from all over the world.

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Travel and Leisure

The Bulgari Hotel & Resort Bali is a 59-villa property located in the breath-taking natural beauty a secluded setting. Now the resort is setting a new standard of luxury hospitality with the addition of five exclusive Mansions combining the ultimate comfort of private villas with the highest level of service that characterises Bulgari Hotels & Resorts.

Tropical Exoticism

he Bulgari Hotel & Resort Bali is located near the village of Pecatu and the stunning cliff- top site of the Pura Luhur Uluwatu Temple, on the islandâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s far south-western tip. Uniquely positioned at more than 150 metres above sea level, the resort offers unrivalled views across the Indian Ocean. Nestled between the cliff and the ocean, a 1.5 kilometre long beach is accessible only through the resortâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s inclined elevator. Designed by the Italian architectural firm Antonio Citterio Patricia Viel and Partners, the highly luxurious Mansion villas are directly inspired by the Balinese culture and architecture. They harmoniously blend Balinese style with refined, typically Italian design. Beautifully located in an area adjacent to the Resort on a secluded upland plain bordered by cliffs, they offer extraordinary views on the Indian Ocean. Antonio Citterio Patricia Viel and Partners have aimed to harmoniously integrate the Mansions in their design for the garden, by creating spare, low profile

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architectural volumes that blend in seamlessly with the landscape. The common areas are situated on the top floor in order to create a living room housed in a lightweight structure. This structure is clad with wood panels on the façade, which are rhythmically defined by a series of high windows overlooking the garden. The private spaces in each Mansion are located on the ground floor, whose large footprint made it possible to include every imaginable comfort in the bedrooms. On this level, the views have been screened to ensure maximum privacy and relaxation for guests. The public spaces continue outdoors in the garden, with the gazebo sheltering the open-air living room, and the poolside area that offers some of the finest views of the Indian Ocean. The elevated portions of the villas have been built of stonewalls set in the ground, while the wood and glass façades open up the house onto the garden. The partially terraced slope of the land permits direct access to the top floor via a broad outdoor staircase leading to the covered entrance porch to the villa. The top floor contains a large open space including covered Porte Cochère, a sumptuous living room, dining room, powder room, service pantry kitchen and elegant bar. The large windows and outdoor terrace command unparalleled views of the Indian Ocean. Both the master bedroom and the guest bedrooms have a foyer, a study and walk-in closets. Each bedroom has its own bathroom with walls clad in warm-toned exotic stone. Aligned with the rest of the Resort, the style of The

Designed by the Italian architectural firm Antonio Citterio Patricia Viel and Partners, the highly luxurious Mansion villas are directly inspired by the Balinese culture and architecture.

01 The mansions offer extraordinary views over the Indian ocean 02 The design is a blend of Balinese style with refined, typically Italian design 03 Each bedroom has its own bathroom with walls clad in warm-toned exotic stone 04 The mansions have been perfectly integrated with the local environment 05 Designed by the Italian architectural firm Antonio Citterio Patricia Viel and Partners

Mansions has been perfectly integrated with the local environment. Indigenous elements have been blended and expressed with hand-cut local volcanic rock, the use of precious exotic woods and refined fabrics made exclusively for Bulgari. The garden and indoor walls have been built with lava rock and palimanan, while the sophisticated nuances of bangkiray, a Javanese mahogany, give the doors and windows of the villas a luxurious feel. These three to five bedrooms Mansions range from 1,710 square meters to 4,415 square meters including a spacious outdoor area and feature a living room and dining room, a powder room, a fully equipped kitchen suitable for entertaining, a bar, a patio, a terrace and a separate structure for service staff. Every villa has its own garden and two-tiered heated swimming pool surrounded by sun decks and a gazebo with open living areas opening into the garden. The swimming pools, inspired by rice paddies, have been lined with the green hues of Sukabumi stone. Each of them has a different, free form shape that follows the natural contours of the terrain, offering unobstructed views of the ocean. Located in the extraordinary natural setting of the Bukit Peninsula, the Bulgari Resort Bali Mansions offer a range of sophisticated services and make for a truly unforgettable holiday experience. www.bulgarihotels.com/en-us/bali 05

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Where iconic elegance mingles with new-world sophistication, these world-class hotels are celebrated for their sublime service, exceptional facilities, and premium locations across some of the best cities. Take a trip with Durrah as we uncover four luxury hotel destinations.

Style and Service

The Ritz-Carlton, Vienna Embracing all the charming traditions of a European city, and combining the imperial flair of the past with the latest trends, Vienna is an exciting and alluring destination for both business and leisure travellers. Museums, opera houses and theatres offer a variety of cultural experience. At the centre of it all, The RitzCarlton, Vienna awaits with sumptuous rooms, an exclusive Club Lounge, a luxurious Spa and world-class restaurants and bars. The hotel is an exquisite oasis with a string of indulgences, including a private and peaceful Boutique Spa, featuring six treatment rooms, each with its own bathroom, and two couplesâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; treatment rooms offering relaxation within glamorous surroundings. Guests can also enjoy a state-of-the-art Fitness Centre, 18-meter indoor pool with underwater music, and health club with steam bath, sauna cabins and heated relaxation beds. Featuring 202 luxurious guest rooms and suites with every comfort possible, the hotel boasts a beautiful combination of historic, culturally protected buildings and modern, stylish design. Guest rooms offer

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a host of sumptuous amenities, including Egyptian cotton sheets, marble baths and a view over the city or into a serene courtyard. The 190-square-meter Presidential Suite, featuring a separate pantry, dressing room and elegant library, combines 19th century charm with state-of-the-art technology. Historic ceiling frescoes, wall panelling and a fireplace from the former Palaces have been incorporated and carefully combined with contemporary interior design. Guests are treated to a variety of elegant dining options at the hotel. Restaurant “Dstrikt” serves classic Austrian cuisine focusing on fresh, local products. In Lobby Lounge “Melounge,” everything is about chocolate with a chocolate sommelier offering delicacies from Criollo alongside coffee and famous

Viennese cakes. Drinks are served at rooftop bar “Atmosphere” featuring spectacular views over Vienna. With legendary service and a variety of meeting spaces to choose from, every event becomes a memorable occasion at The Ritz-Carlton, Vienna. Guests can choose from an elegant boardroom for 10 appointed with Touch Screen Technology or the spectacular Crystal Room for 300. Three Palais rooms accommodating up to 30 guests are also available, along with a 24-hour Business Centre providing access to computers, printers and a fax machine. A team of detailed professionals ensures a seamless event every step of the way. www.ritzcarlton.com/vienna

The Ritz-Carlton, Vienna awaits with sumptuous rooms, an exclusive Club Lounge, a luxurious Spa and world-class restaurants and bars. 03 02

01 Presidential Suite living area 02 The hotel faรงade 03 The historical fireplace 04 Lobby and reception area 05 Junior suite bedroom

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06 The Royal Suite study 07 The Royal Suite master bedroom 08 The Royal Suite dressing room

The Savoy, London Perfectly placed on the north bank of the River Thames and set within Covent Garden’s vibrant shopping and theatre district, The Savoy is London’s most celebrated and glamorous hotel. To stay at The Savoy is to follow in the footsteps of Sir Winston Churchill, Frank Sinatra, Christian Dior, Claude Monet and Katharine Hepburn. Originally opened in 1889, the hotel’s old style glamour sparkles with a fresh new 21st century lustre following the most ambitious hotel restoration in British history in 2010. The Savoy’s 195 guestrooms and 73 suites are decorated in either Edwardian or Art Deco style, and many afford breath-taking views over the River Thames. Blending comfort and elegance with discreet technology, nine Personality Suites take inspiration from high profile guests, while the hotel’s two bedroom Royal Suite is an impressive stately procession of rooms spread across the front of the entire fifth floor, overlooking the river. At The Savoy, guests will find some of London’s most iconic restaurants and lounges. Kaspar’s Seafood Bar and Grill joins Gordon Ramsay’s Savoy Grill and the British Institution, Simpson’s-in-the-Strand. Afternoon tea is offered in the Thames Foyer and drinks at the

American Bar or Theatrical Beaufort Bar. During a stay guests can also visit Savoy Tea for bespoke gifts and a unique range of teas and patisserie, or watch chocolatiers prepare the finest confectionery. Also available is a chance to unwind in the hotel’s renowned Beauty and Fitness area, which features a 10m swimming pool, state of the art fitness equipment and a full menu of massage, facial and beauty treatments. Hosting events such as a wedding, corporate event or private celebration at The Savoy is made easy with a highly experienced team that will help plan every tiny detail. The hotel’s three imposing Banqueting Rooms host the grandest affairs – while six Private Rooms are ideal for more intimate gatherings. In keeping with their pioneering heritage, The Savoy has been awarded a host of prestigious environmental awards and is a member of the Considerate Hoteliers Association, Sustainable Restaurant Association, Green Key Global Program, and holds a Gold Award with Green Tourism for London. www.fairmont.com/savoy

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The Ritz-Carlton, Bali Opening earlier this year, The Ritz-Carlton Bali is a unique, luxurious and locally inspired resort, set amidst the dramatic cliffs and pristine beaches of southern Bali. With 313 hotel rooms, including 34 cliff top and ocean view villas, the luxury resort offers a dramatic location along the sweeping coastline of Nusa Dua’s southern tip. Of its many memorable features, the 180-degree unobstructed views of the Indian Ocean are undeniably a highlight, with a 70-meter high glass elevator ensuring views of the lush landscape and exquisite scenery. The Ritz-Carlton Bali embodies the brand’s dedication to iconic service, whilst combining the warmth and spirituality of true Indo-Balinese hospitality. The resort reinforces The Ritz-Carlton’s commitment to inspiring life’s most meaningful journeys, with authentic and harmonious experiences and indigenous design elements. Embracing local symbolism, a central theme to the property is the Tree of Life, known to locals as ‘Kalpataru’, which represents strength, wisdom, and beauty, and is prevalent throughout the resort and grounds, providing the fullest appreciation for the beauty of life. Décor is “Anyaman” style, coupled with design influences from local craftsmen and

09 The hotel’s lobby 10 Oceanfront villa bathroom 11 Oceanfront villa bedroom 12 Sky villa living room 13 Breezes at dusk

the surrounding landscape, creating an exceptional environment that is as elegant as it is rustic. Led by a highly skilled culinary team, The RitzCarlton, Bali features six restaurants and lounges, offering an authentic gastronomic journey, combining the finest local ingredients with international influences. These include Bejana, the property’s Indonesian restaurant, The Beach Grill, set along the shore and offering seafood and grill specialties, Raku, a Japanese Lounge & Bar, Senses, an all day dining restaurant, and Breezes Tapas Lounge which serves light snacks and Tapas by the pool. The Ritz-Carlton Club Level includes a private pool and sun deck exclusively for club guests, whilst The Ritz-Carlton Spa offers a distinctive wellness experience that is truly Balinese in nature. Surrounded by lush foliage, the spa consists of 14 serene treatment rooms seamlessly incorporating indoor and outdoor spaces. A stunning oceanfront wedding chapel makes the property the venue of choice for island weddings, while meeting facilities for up to 200 guests provide for an endless variety of corporate and private events. www.ritzcarlton.com/bali

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Waldorf Astoria, Dubai Palm Jumeirah With breath-taking views of the Arabian Gulf coastline and some of Dubai’s famous landmarks, the 319-room Waldorf Astoria Dubai Palm Jumeirah exudes the true luxury, world-class amenities and sophistication for which the brand is known. From arrival to departure, guests of the hotel are welcomed by True Waldorf Service, which assigns a personal concierge to each qualified guest before, during and – an industry first – after a stay, to guarantee every want and request is met. Positioned on the East Crescent of Palm Jumeirah and boasting a wealth of superior services, amenities at Waldorf Astoria Dubai Palm Jumeirah fittingly reflect the inspirational environments of the brand. Guests are spoilt for choice with a selection of six sumptuous restaurants and bars offering the finest cuisine and drinks including a jewel in the culinary crown, the New York inspired Social by Heinz Beck, a fashionably stylish eatery by multiaward winning master of gastronomy, European chef and author Heinz Beck. The hotel also features other mouth-watering options such as Lao, bringing innovative, stylish south-east Asian contemporary dining; Mezzerie, locally-inspired arabesque dining at its most luxurious; Palm Avenue, a chic oasis in the heart of the hotel’s

elegant gardens and Serafina, an authentic and refined Venetian offering. The centrepiece of the hotel is Peacock Alley, named after the famous high-society promenade lounge, which connected the original Waldorf and Astoria hotels in New York. Waldorf Astoria Dubai Palm Jumeirah boasts an abundance of impressive recreational facilities including tennis and a full range of water sports. To tempt those guests seeking to relax and refresh, the hotel offers a 200-meter private beach of ivory sand and two temperature-controlled outdoor pools. The addition of a children’s club also ensures young guests are kept entertained. Befitting of a Waldorf Astoria hotel, a luxurious Waldorf Astoria Spa offers bespoke treatments that blend traditional philosophies with signature techniques to create therapies designed to balance, revive and rejuvenate. Destined to become a number one choice for event planners, Waldorf Astoria Dubai Palm Jumeirah is an outstanding setting for meetings, launches and grand celebrations. Key features include eight naturally lit meeting spaces and an exceptional 600-capacity, multipurpose ballroom. www.placeshilton.com/dubai-palm-jumeirah

Positioned on the East Crescent of Palm Jumeirah and boasting a wealth of superior services, amenities at Waldorf Astoria Dubai Palm Jumeirah fittingly reflect the inspirational environments of the brand.

15 16

14 14 The grand marble lobby 15 The King Deluxe Skyline View bedroom 16 Waldorf Suite living room

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17 Leading into the lobby 18 Master bedroom 19 The impressive lobby area 20 Pool lounge area 21 Living room suite

The Ritz-Carlton, Dubai Setting a new standard for luxury hospitality, The RitzCarlton, Dubai has been an iconic beachfront retreat for over 15 years. Overlooking the waters of the Arabian Gulf from its unique vantage point in the heart of the vibrant Dubai Marina district, the resort is an intimate oasis that combines renowned hospitality with the ageold traditions of the Middle East. From the subtle grandeur of its low-rise Mediterranean style buildings to the graceful interiors, the resort occupies a prime location on Dubai’s cosmopolitan The Walk on JBR, an exclusive destination that has echoes of the French Riviera. A perfect setting that bears all the hallmarks of classic Ritz-Carlton hospitality, at The Ritz-Carlton Dubai authentic Arabian hospitality meets unrivalled levels of service delivered with personality and warmth courtesy. The 294 guestrooms and suites are designed for relaxation, or as quiet working spaces, with sea-facing views of the hotel’s manicured gardens and beach from secluded balconies. Cool green lawns and views out over the fronds of Palm Jumeirah are perfect for an early morning or evening stroll. Guests can also enjoy the cushioned comfort of a sun lounger on the pristine private beach, for a vacation

experience that takes luxury to a new level. Guests in search of a more active lifestyle have unlimited recreation facilities to choose from including four tennis courts and a multi-purpose gymnasium, together with six swimming pools. The resort’s leisure offering comes full circle at The Ritz-Carlton Spa where the ambience radiates the traditions and warmth of an Arabian “Hammam”, with an innovative urban twist. With nine multi-purpose treatment rooms, three private couple’s rooms with private terraces, separate relaxation lounges, indoor hot and cold plunge pools and an outdoor lap pool, the spa is laid out to suit the quiet and contemplative mood of the resort setting. Award-winning gastronomy is a cornerstone of The Ritz-Carlton, Dubai, and 9 restaurants featuring handpicked menus prepared by some of the city’s most respected chefs. With the bustling metropolis and all the attractions of urban living on the doorstep, step into the city’s most sought-after beach destination and discover a hidden legendary gem in the heart of Dubai Marina. www.ritzcarlton.com/en/Properties/Dubai/Default.htm

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Spas

With a selection of unique products and personalised treatments, these two spas located within two of the worldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s finest hotels, offer a sanctuary devoted to overall well-being, just moments away from the vibrant city. The luxury retreats provide the perfect wellness escape, where discerning guests can experience a truly unforgettable spa journey.

Enchanting Indulgence

Spa and Wellness Club, Corinthia Lisbon The Spa and Wellness Club at Corinthia Lisbon offers 3,500 square meters of sophisticated and exclusive facilities to cover every beauty and wellbeing need. On offer are therapies including including face and body treatments, a contemporary Acqua area, a heated indoor swimming pool, natural solarium, fully equipped gym, and an elegant Spa CafĂŠ. Signature spa highlights at the Corinthia Lisbon include the Stone Spirits massage, which uses heated volcanic stones to relieve pain and accumulated tensions, and the Detox Cocoon, a purifying treatment with sea salts and ginger essential oils, which have an anti-stress effect. Also on offer are Foot Reflexology, Reiki, Shiatsu and Ayurvedic Massage treatments as part of the Holistic Therapies range. The Corinthia Hotel Lisbon boasts a state-ofthe-art acqua area, based on ancient hot and cold bathing rituals for a sensory experience of detox and revitalisation.

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Spas

The Corinthia Hotel Lisbon boasts a stateof-the-art acqua area, based on ancient hot and cold bathing rituals for a sensory experience of detox and revitalisation.

The range of thermal facilities includes Sensory Showers, a Hydrotherapy Pool, Jacuzzi, Sauna, Steam Bath, Bucket Shower, Cold Plunge Pool, Ice Fountain, and a Cooling Walk. Each of these premium facilities offers the ultimate cleansing, relaxing and rejuvenating experience, coupled with health and wellness benefits. The gym at Corinthia Lisbon is open 24 hours a day to cater to guests whenever they please. The gym is equipped with cardiovascular exercise machines, a kinesis training system, Powerplate, TRX and free weights. Personal trainers are available to help guests create or fine-tune their exercise routine six days a week. www.corinthia.com/hotels/lisbon/spa-andwellbeing/sports-and-wellness 04

01 The state-of- the-art acqua area 02 The spaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s fully equipped gym 03 One of the relaxation areas 04 A private couples treatment room 05 The ice fountain in the acqua area

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Spas 06 The spas luxurious reception area 07 One of the private treatment rooms 08 A haven of relaxation 09 The spa was inspired by the pristine beauty of its iconic location

Waldorf Astoria Spa, Dubai Palm Jumeirah Inspired by the pristine beauty of its iconic location on the Palm Jumeirah, the Waldorf Astoria Spa offers internationally inspired spa journeys utilising some of the world’s most exquisite spa products. Establishing itself as a haven of wellbeing, the Spa focuses on providing highly personalised therapies in an inviting yet intimate environment, ensuring that each experience is unique and truly unforgettable. The refined and elegant features cover upwards of 3,200 square meters of palatial indoor space, overlooking a lush outdoor garden. The Spa showcases a wide-range of luxurious treatments - 50 treatments and services in total. The facilities include twelve treatment rooms, two private Spa suites, a nail care studio, Spa boutique, thermal and water flotation lounges, an ice fountain, a herbal steam room and Himalayan salt stone saunas, all housed in an inviting space to relax and unwind. Each experience combines rich healing traditions with refined products and specialised techniques to deliver an extraordinary experience. With exceptional product brands the Spa offers

indulgent and original spa therapies designed to create a one-of-a-kind experience in harmonious opulence. High end products such as the Valmont range from Switzerland are available and the Waldorf Astoria Spa is currently the only hotel Spa in Dubai to offer these exclusive Red Flower branded amenities from New York. In addition, the Spa offers products by renowned French artist Serge Lutens and Omorovicza from Hungary, which includes the decadent gold body and facial therapies originating from their region. Guests can experience the local culture of the traditional ‘Attar’ perfumery, featuring Serge Lutens perfumes rich in woody aromatics from the East and feminine florals from the West. The signature experience allows guests to complete a sensory test from the collection where each perfume has been selected to ignite a unique sensory journey, transporting individuals to another destination and time. waldorfastoria3.hilton.com/en/index.html

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Dining

Durrah presents a stunning collection of four venues, which offer a combination of the very best in dining across London, Bangkok, Bali and Paris. The exquisitely designed spaces are complemented by art, furnishings, and technology, which perfectly match the culinary experience each restaurant offers.

Distinctive Dining

LiLi, Paris With The Peninsula Hotelsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; long heritage of awardwinning Cantonese restaurants, LiLi promises to bring a new dimension to Chinese dining in Paris with sophisticated authentic Chinese gastronomy in a stylish setting. Located in the space that was once the dining room of the former hotel and taking as its theme the marriage of Chinese and French opera, LiLi is a dramatic setting. The restaurant features marble columns, original mouldings, midnight blue walls and chandeliers, sweeping lacquer-red curtains, a dome inspired by the sound stage of a hall in Shanghai, enormous deep blue and green tassels, stunning art works and a revolutionary 3 square metre fibre-optic hanging at the entrance. Hailing from Hong Kong, Chef Tang Chi Keung has worked with The Peninsula Hotels since 1986, opening the Chinese fine-dining restaurants in the Hong Kong, Tokyo and Shanghai properties before relocating to Paris to launch LiLi. The Peninsula Tokyoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Hei Fung Terrace was awarded a Michelin star during his tenure â&#x20AC;&#x201C; the first Michelin award for the group.

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02 01 A theme of Chinese and French opera 02 The incredible 3 square metre fibre-optic hanging at the entrance 03 Chilled cucumber and turnip with Sichuan pepper sauce 04 Dining booths under the midnight blue walls 04

The restaurant features marble columns, original mouldings, midnight blue walls and chandeliers, sweeping lacquer-red curtains, a dome inspired by the sound stage of a hall in Shanghai.

Excited by the extremely high quality of French products and ingredients, Chef Tang showcases authentic Cantonese cuisine, featuring typical Hong Kong specialities with an emphasis on fish and seafood dishes, dim sum and very authentic homestyle cooking. The lynchpin of Chinese cuisine is its sauces, and Chef Tang makes all his own sauces himself – and again, France’s high-quality ingredients are ideal. He created a new sauce to celebrate his arrival in France and the launch of LiLi – mildly spicy, the secret recipe includes chili, black beans, olive and mustard green leaves, goes perfectly with his seafood, fish and beef creations. paris.peninsula.com/en/fine-dining/lili-cantonesegourmet-restaurant

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Dining

Kaspar’s Seafood Bar and Grill, London Located in the heart of London with panoramic views of the River Thames and London landmarks, Kaspar’s Seafood Bar and Grill offers an informal yet luxurious dining experience, presented in an elegant twentiesstyle setting. The vibrant design evokes The Savoy’s rich and glamorous past, whilst creating a sought after but relaxed dining environment, where Kaspar, The Savoy’s most famous four legged feline will reside. Kaspar’s is an all-day dining affair, seven days a week restaurant serving a wide range of cuisine to satisfy all palates. A show stopping seafood bar takes centre stage, encouraging a dynamic and bustling atmosphere, seamlessly moving from a patisserie breakfast bar to lunch and dinner with a beautiful display of shellfish, cured and smoked fish to whet the appetite. The naming of Kaspar’s Seafood Bar and Grill lay at the heart of this concept. A cherished guest at The Savoy for almost a century, the name perfectly

combines the glorious heritage of The Savoy with the modern and informal look that Kaspar’s Seafood Bar and Grill captures. The art deco inspired restaurant was designed by Robert Angell Design Studio using a twenties and thirties template, keeping with The Savoy’s history. The timeless, stylish and comfortable interior helps to create a lively ambience and compliments the informal menu. With stunning views across the River Thames, the fish bar will adds element of theatre to the room with its oyster shell bar, two Murano glass columns and bespoke pendant light feature. Brass railings, art deco mirrors and a silver leafed ceiling will add elegance and light, and the marble bar flooring is encircled by a teal swirl carpet, the latter representing the ebb and flow of the River Thames. www.kaspars.co.uk

05 The vibrant art deco interior 06 The show-stopping seafood bar 07 A decadent seafood platter 08 Pan-fried sea bream with fennel gratin

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09 Exterior of the colonial-style wooden house 10 Transparent nut bags 11 Fish in Bengali mustard 12 Cane furniture, ceiling fans and whitewashed walls adorn the interior 13 The restaurant has an elegant charm

Gaggan, Bangkok Drawing on his memories of the amazing street food and the diversity of India’s different regional cuisines, Chef Gaggan Anand has used science and modern technology to create modernist and progressive reinterpretations of traditional recipes. Set in a stunning colonial-style wooden house in the heart of downtown Bangkok, the award-winning Gaggan offers a culinary experience like no other. The space features cane furniture, ceiling fans and whitewashed walls, giving it an elegant charm. There are several private dining spaces, including one looking directly into the kitchen where guests can witness the gastronomic wizardry for themselves. Polished service and an excellent drinks list complete the standout experience. The restaurant has been recognised as one of the top culinary destinations in Bangkok for residents as well as visitors, and TIME magazine has dubbed Chef Gaggan the “Captain Kirk of cuisine”.

The menus are inspired by seasonal ingredients, the freshest produce, the amazing diversity of India’s regional cuisines, and childhood street food memories from the Chef. Over the course of one evening guests travel on a special culinary journey, as they sample the Gaggan Experience and discover the true meaning of progressive Indian cuisine. Dishes include favourites such as Beauty and the Beast – young potatoes stuffed with sun-dried figs – and Green with Envy – green peppercorn chicken kebabs combined with coriander foam – each menu item is big on impact, but never at the expense of flavour. Set up in 2010, Gaggan has consistently been at the top of the world’s best restaurant lists, and has been described as an “innovation & design guru who changed Indian food”. www.eatatgaggan.com

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Bejana, Bali The Ritz-Carlton, Bali has proudly welcomed Bejana, the resort’s signature Indonesian restaurant earlier this year. Bejana, from the Indonesian word for a tradition culinary vessel, presents a unique mix of five-starflair and relaxed ambience. Sure to be a top-dining destination in Bali, Bejana features a variety of indoor and outdoor seating with dramatic views of the resort and the Indian Ocean. Located on the upper-cliff, the restaurant is open for dinner, welcoming guests and visitors alike. Bejana is also home to the ‘Culinary Cave’ an exciting gourmet learning centre, allowing guests to discover Indonesian cooking through handson experiences with the Chef. Designed by Burega Farnell, the restaurant sits on three different levels. The upper-level houses the Culinary Cave, featuring an open kitchen with three state-of-the-art cooking stations for learning and

demonstrations as well as a colonial style chef’s table. A step down, the middle of the restaurant guests will find a private dining room for 12, as well as several intimate tables especially designed for couples, with a romantic atmosphere complimented by a small garden and bar. The last level is set on an open-air wooden deck, featuring cosy lounges and casual outdoor seating. The intricate Balinese design was influenced by traditional elements from local craftsmen, and creates an exceptionally elegant environment with a rustic edge. The menu presents dishes from different regions of Bali and Indonesia, such as Soto Pesmol, a spiced coconut and seafood soup originally from Jakarta, and Bebek Betutu, a Balinese roast duck in Banana Leaf. www.ritzcarlton.com/en/Properties/Bali/Dining/ Bejana/Default.htm

14 Dramatic views of the resort and the Indian Ocean 15 Designed by Burega Farnell, the restaurant sits on three different levels 16 Rijstaffel – ‘Rice Table’ 17 Ikan Woku

The intricate Balinese design was influenced by traditional elements from local craftsmen, and creates an exceptionally elegant environment with a rustic edge

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18 19

18 The restaurant takes a step back in time 19 The cuisine is Vietnamese ‘Traditional Hue Cuisine’ 20 A trendy yet genuinely Asian atmosphere 21 Designs from the orient of old 22 The typical style of dining at Wok is ‘family style’

Wok, Manama Located at Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq Thalassa Sea and Spa, Wok serves authentically Vietnamese cuisine using the freshest ingredients, and a wide variety of distinctive seasonings, herbs, and spices. The unique restaurant takes a step back in time to the orient of old, with wooden décor and a quiet, soft atmosphere with gentle music playing. In the kitchen, a dedicated team of Vietnamese chefs prepare an exquisite selection of authentic cuisine. The typical style of dining at Wok is ‘family style’, where a number of dishes are placed in the centre of the table and shared. The cuisine is Vietnamese ‘Traditional Hue Cuisine’, which Vietnamese people regard as the best cuisine in the country. Hue culinary tradition pays much attention to aestheticism and harmony among ingredients, and the decoration and colour of the food, in order to create a gastronomic work of art.

Mr Minh Duong (Bruce) is the Chef de Cuisine at Wok. After studying at the Hanoi Tourism College, Bruce has worked for several 5 star hotels in Hanoi, including Sofitel Plaza before moving to Macau in 2011. Wok boasts a trendy yet genuinely Asian atmosphere in all aspects. It has a perfect combination of stones and wood in the décor, as well as art and craftworks that reflect the true Asian culture and hospitality. The interior design is exquisite; with handpainted walls so detailed they look like wallpaper. Wok provides seating on a terrace overlooking the pool and the sea as well as an indoor area, including two private dining rooms. Diners can watch the chefs cook steaming bowls of Southeast Asian cuisine in a show kitchen, which can be viewed from the main dining area. www.sofitel.com

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Culinary Creations

Executive Chef of the Four Seasons Hotel Amman, Chuck Kazmer is a highly creative and detail-oriented chef, who creates local farm to table cuisine by combining traditional and modern cooking techniques. Chuck has had a long-standing journey with Four Seasons that began in 1991, and now shares with Durrah three recipes for his delicious and highly renowned dishes.

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Wagyu Beef Carpaccio Ingredients Serves 4 • 200g wagyu beef striploin, cleaned • Coarse ground black pepper • Cheesecloth Method 1. Crust the beef striploin heavily with cracked black peppercorn. 2. Wrap in cheesecloth and place in cooler for 24 hours to cure. 3. Remove cheesecloth and wrap tightly in nylon film and place in freezer until firm. 4. Slice very thinly (3-4mm) and lay immediately on plate to be served on. Parmesan foam Ingredients • 200ml full fat milk • 4 filet anchovy • 1 clove garlic • 300g Parmigianno Regianno, grated finely • 500ml heavy cream • 1/2 tsp agar agar Method 1. Place milk, anchovy and garlic in blender and process. 2. Add milk mixture, cream and grated Parmigianno to sauce pan and bring slowly to simmer, stirring constantly. 3. Just before the mixture comes to a boil, add agar agar and continue to stir. 4. Simmer for 1 minute. 5. Take off heat and strain into ISI cream canister and chill. 6. After chilled charge the canister 1x and reserve for serving. Parmesan Crisps Ingredients • 300g Parmigianno Regianno • Black pepper coarsely ground Method 1. Preheat oven to 200C. 2. Sprinkle cheese evenly on non-stick sheet tray and lightly with black pepper. 3. Bake in oven until lightly golden colour. 4. Remove from tray while still hot and drape over small tube to take the shape and cool. Crispy capers Method 1. Deep fry capers until crispy. 2. Drain on paper and reserve to serve. GARNISH Ingredients • Micro cress leaves • Virgin olive oil • Sea salt flakes • Coarsely ground black peppercorns Method 1. Add parmesan foam, parmesan crisps, crispy capers and garnish to the Wagyu Beef Carpaccio and serve.

Scottish salmon, potato, leek & thyme Ingredients Serves 4 • 6x 180g Scottish salmon filet • Olive oil • Butter • Salt & pepper Method 1. Season salmon with salt and pepper. 2. Over medium heat, add oil and sear salmon skin side down until salmon starts to brown around edges. 3. Flip salmon so skin side is up and continue to cook adding a butter cube for each piece. As the butter melts, baste the salmon portions with hot butter continually until fully cooked to desired temperature. Vegetables Ingredients • 250g thinly sliced potatoes, blanched • 200g sliced leeks, washed well and blanched • 6 sprigs European thyme • 150g zucchini trimmed of seeds and cut, blanched • 150g vegetable broth • 50g butter • TT lemon juice • Salt & pepper Method 1. Warm potatoes and leeks in broth and add picked thyme leaves. 2. Add butter, stirring to emulsify butter and make the sauce. Adjust flavour with lemon juice and salt & pepper. 3. Add blanched zucchini to warm through to serve. Cucumber Ingredients • 100g thinly sliced cucumber, no seeds • Lemon juice • Olive oil sat & pepper Method 1. Marinate cucumber in lemon juice and olive oil. 2. Season with salt and pepper GARNISH Ingredients • Onion seed sprouts • Fresh picked thyme leaves Method 1. Place salmon on top of vegetables. 2. Add cucumber and garnish to the top of the salmon and serve.

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Chocolate Coffee Mousse Ingredients • 120ml chilled heavy cream • 4 egg yolks • 50ml strong Arabic Coffee, strained or espresso • 150g sugar • Pinch salt • 175g semisweet chocolate (60-72% cacao), chopped finely • 2 egg whites Method 1. Whip heavy cream to stiff peaks, cover and chill. 2. Combine egg yolk, coffee, salt and 30g sugar in metal mixing bowl and place over pot of simmering water. 3. Whisk mixture in the mixing bowl constantly over the simmering water until fluffy and pale in colour and the temperature reaches 70C. 4. Remove bowl from heat add chopped chocolate and whisk until melted thoroughly and smooth. Allow mixture to cool to room temperature. 5. Beat egg whites in standing mixer while gradually adding remaining sugar. Whip until firm peaks are formed. 6. Fold egg whites gently into cooled chocolate mixture. 7. Fold whipped cream gently into the mixture. 8. Divide mousse into serving dishes, cover and chill. 9. Garnish with crumbled chocolate cookie crumbles.

UNDER THE PATRONAGE OF

HIS ROYAL HIGHNESS

PRINCE KHALIFA BIN SALMAN AL KHALIFA PRIME MINISTER OF THE KINGDOM OF BAHRAIN

The 24th Middle East International Jewellery & Watch Exhibition

Visit the Middle East’s largest jewellery & watch show Pre-register online at www.jewelleryarabia.com

24 - 28 November 2015 Bahrain International Exhibition & Convention Centre

Open daily to public

+973 17 55 00 33

info@jewelleryarabia.com

ORGANISERS

EDUCATION & LABORATORY PROVIDER

info@jewelleryarabia.com

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Forty years on from the unveiling of the 308 GTB, Ferrari’s first ever mid-rear-engined V8 model, the Prancing Horse opens a new chapter in its 8-cylinder history. The Ferrari 488 GTB provides track-level performance that can be enjoyed to the full even by non-professional drivers in everyday use. Its response times, nimbleness and on-the-limit driving guarantee a unique sense of exhilaration and unparalleled driving pleasure.

Extreme Power 40 Years of Ferrari V8

iith a dynamic history of excellence, Ferrari has been set the standard for luxury motorcars in professional racing, and as the car of choice for some of the world’s most powerful and high profile people. The brand’s origins date back to 1947 when the first Ferrari emerged from the historic factory entrance on Via Abetone Inferiore in Maranello. The 125 S, as it was known, embodied the passion and determination of the company’s founder Enzo Ferrari. Today, Ferrari keeps their pioneering spirit alive, forever exceeding expectations and developing upon their renowned motorcar models. “My favourite Ferrari is the next one,” Enzo Ferrari is quoted as saying. Enzo’s famous phrase perfectly captures the excitement surrounding the launch of the 488 GTB.

Forty years ago, Ferrari unveiled their first midrear-engined V8 berlinetta, the 308 GTB. Now, the new 488 GTB marks a return to the classic Ferrari model designation. The new car not only delivers unparalleled performance, it also makes that extreme power exploitable and controllable to an unprecedented level even by less expert drivers. The 488 GTB brilliantly encapsulates Ferrari’s experience in both F1 and the WEC, where the 458 GT holds the World Championship title and has won its category in the last two editions of the 24 Hours of Le Mans. The new model also exploits the full the knowhow gleaned by Ferrari technicians over the last decade through the XX programme, which makes extreme track-only cars available to gentleman test-drivers. The data yielded has made a significant contribution to the refinement of the electronic and vehicle control systems

so that drivers can make the most of the incredible performance of this new car. The Ferrari 488 GTB’s new 3902 cc V8 turbo is at the top of its class for power output, torque and response times, making it the new benchmark for this kind of architecture. The engine unleashes 670 cv at 8,000 rpm along with 760 Nm of maximum torque in seventh gear and a response time to the accelerator of just 0.8 seconds at 2,000 rpm. These figures are sufficient to allow the Ferrari 488 GTB to accelerate from 0-200 km/h in an astonishing 8.3 seconds and, when combined with the radical innovations introduced on all aspects of the car’s performance, lap the Fiorano track in just 1’23”. The gearbox features Variable Torque Management which unleashes the engine’s massive torque smoothly and powerfully right across the rev range, while specific

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01 The New 488 GTB enhances the classic qualities of a normally aspirated Ferrari engine by using the very latest turbocharging technology. Its innovative design contributes to its remarkable handling 02 Usability was the key word in the design, leading to an extremely sporty ambience that in no way compromises on comfort 03 The new V8, the 488 GTB, boasting a performance worthy of a F1 car of very recent vintage, with a power output of 670hp and capable of hitting 0-100km/h in a little over 3sec

gear ratios deliver incredibly progressive acceleration when the driver floors the throttle. As is always the case, Ferrari’s engineers have dedicated great attention to perfecting the 488 GTB’s sound, creating a new soundtrack that is full, clear and totally distinctive, as expected from any Prancing Horse engine. The car’s aerodynamics also made a pivotal contribution to performance: its 1.67 efficiency figure is a new record for a production Ferrari, and is the fruit of 50 per cent more down-force than the previous model and reduced drag. The greatest challenge was achieving these two goals simultaneously. Several innovative elements were specifically developed to do so, not least a double front spoiler, base bleed side intakes and, at the rear, active aerodynamics coupled with a blown spoiler. The aerodynamic underbody, which incorporates vortex generators, is highly sophisticated, too. The Ferrari 488 GTB’s subsystems and electronic controls make its power and performance instantly available and controllable. It is, in fact, the most responsive production model there is, with razor-sharp response times comparable to those of a track car. The evolved version of Ferrari’s side slip angle control system (Side Slip Control 2 - SSC2) is more precise and less invasive, providing greater longitudinal acceleration out of corners. Aside from integrating with car’s F1-Trac and E-Diff, the SSC2 now also controls

the active dampers, which renders the car’s dynamic behaviour during complex manoeuvres even flatter and more stable. Designed by the Ferrari Styling Centre, the new car features very sculptural flanks which are the key to its character. Its large signature air intake scallop is a nod to the original 308 GTB and is divided into two sections by a splitter. The wide front spoiler features a double profile to improve the thermal efficiency of the radiators positioned at the sides. At the centre two pylons are combined with a deflector which channels air towards the flat under-body. The broad, low tail is also dominated by aerodynamic solutions, including an innovative blown spoiler, which generates down-force without increasing drag. This works in conjunction with an aggressive ramp angle for the diffuser, which features active flaps. The greater height required for the diffuser was achieved by repositioning the exhaust tailpipes. The circular LED taillights have also been redesigned. In the cabin, the seamless integration of the new satellite control clusters, angled air vents and instrument panel heightens the sense that the cockpit is completely tailored around the driver. Usability was the key word in the design, leading to an extremely sporty ambience that in no way compromises on comfort. There are plenty of classic Ferrari styling elements too, such as the

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04 04-05 The carâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s aerodynamics also made a pivotal contribution to performance 06-07 The carâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s 1.67 efficiency figure is a new record for a production Ferrari, and is the fruit of 50 per cent more downforce than the previous model and reduced drag

clear separation between the dashboard and tunnel, the multifunctional steering wheel, the control switch-bridge and wraparound seats. The graphics and interface of the infotainment screen have also been completely redesigned while the design of the car’s new key takes its inspiration from the car’s cylinder banks and allows keyless starts. Preceding the 488 GTB were a range of models in the Ferrari family. This includes the 2-seat 308 GTB, which superseded the Dino 308 GT4 2 + 2 and in a sense was a successor to the Dino 246. Although it’s not the first production model from Maranello with anything but a 12-cyl engine, it was the first Ferrari with other than a 12 to actually carry the Ferrari name. The 308 GTB was the first production Ferrari with a fiberglass body. The 328 was the ultimate variant of the “attainable” two-seat, V-8-powered Ferrari in the 1980s. Not as commonplace as the 308, nor as polarizing as the Mondial and Testarossa, the 328 hit the sweet spot where Ferrari’s legendary performance, Pininfarina beauty, modern comforts and relative affordability converge. Modified from the 348 TB, the 348 GTB was a two-seater berlinetta with dynamic performance characteristics worthy of the marque’s highest traditions. Its sports orientation was best expressed on the track, as proven by the 348 Challenge, which saw this car race on circuits in Europe and the US. Its styling was harmonious and aerodynamically efficient, and the midmounted V8 engine ensured perfect weight distribution

and class-beating power. The Ferrari F355 Berlinetta (Coupe) was introduced by Ferrari in May, 1994 as the first in a successful series of F355 models. It was an evolution of the Ferrari 348 that with a sleek design and stunning body work. It is a midengined, rear wheel drive, V8-powered two-seat coupe. sInitially, the 6-speed manual was the only transmission available. However, in 1997, the Berlinetta was the firstever road car to be equipped with the innovative F1-style gearbox management system. Derived directly from Formula 1, where it made its debut in 1989 winning the Brazilian Grand Prix, the electro-hydraulic system was operated by paddles behind the steering wheel using the F355’s conventional 6-speed manual gearbox. The new transmission guaranteed faster gear changes, with the additional advantage that both of the driver’s hands could stay on the wheel at all times. The 360 Modena was a clean sheet design, which anticipated trends for future Ferrari road cars. This included lower combined with greater chassis rigidity – seemingly contrasting objectives that have been achieved by employing innovative construction technology. The 360 Modena was the first production Ferrari to be constructed entirely in aluminium. Chassis, bodyshell and suspension wishbones are all made from this lightweight material, allowing the engineers to provide the best overall performance and handling ever achieved in a mid-engined Ferrari, along with levels of comfort unheard of before.

The F430 hailed the arrival of a whole new generation of Ferrari V8-engined berlinettas. Every inch of the car was inspired by the engineering research carried out at Ferrari’s Gestione Sportiva F1 Racing Division. The result was a highly innovative design characterised by cutting-edge technologies perfected for use on a road-going car. The Ferrari 458 Italia was a mid-engined sports car produced in 2009 and was the most successful V8 engine sportscar that Ferrari has built so far. In Ferrari’s first official announcement of the car, the 458 was described as the successor to the F430 but arising from an entirely new design, incorporating technologies developed from the company’s experience in Formula 1. This led to the new 488 GTB, which enhances the classic qualities of a normally aspirated Ferrari engine by using the very latest turbocharging technology. Its innovative design contributes to its remarkable handling. The 488 GTB name marks a return to the classic Ferrari model designation with the 488 in its moniker indicating the engine’s unitary displacement, while the GTB stands for Gran Turismo Berlinetta. An exceptional engine and sophisticated aerodynamics combined with refined vehicle dynamic controls, exemplify all the qualities that Ferrari lovers have come to know and trust from the brand. 488gtb.ferrari.com/en

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An Updated Icon The Rolls-Royce Ghost has proven to be of no ordinary power. At the cornerstone of international success since its launch in 2009, the model has propelled Rolls-Royce Motor Cars to new heights, presenting a less formal, more contemporary and dynamic expression of excellence. Now, in a discreetly updated design that protects the iconic character of the brand, Rolls-Royce proudly introduces Ghost Series II – an oasis of calm in a frantic world. In an exclusive photo shoot with Durrah, the timeless new model is photographed visiting equally timeless locations around Bahrain, demonstrating itself as the epitome of modern luxury.

n response to demands for the best in effortless dynamism, modern luxury and industry-leading technology, Rolls-Royce has unveiled to their prestigious clients the Ghost Series II. Offered in a discreet and considered update of the iconic car’s exterior appearance, Ghost Series II offers the latest technological advances while keeping in tact the model’s true character. Since its launch in 2009, Ghost has become the ultimate symbol of success for leading entrepreneurs across the globe. Winning critical media and customer acclaim and driving the company to four consecutive historic sales records, Ghost has led a new, younger generation of highly successful men and women to Rolls-Royce ownership. Ghost is a thoroughly contemporary representation of Rolls-Royce luxury – perfectly balancing effortless dynamism and modern luxury in a car that is composed

under all circumstances. Owners enjoy a quietly assured, exquisitely refined modern motorcar with an interior ambiance that offers a sense of calm and serenity in an often frenetic and chaotic business world. In essence, Ghost is a Rolls-Royce that meets its owner’s every need; an exquisitely appointed business tool for the business week and an engaging and effortless driving experience for leisure at the weekend. In Ghost Series II, tradition blends perfectly with this bold, contemporary direction. A single defining principle came to characterise the Ghost design process was to harness the power of simplicity. The notion that no complication should ever distract from driver or passenger pleasure, informed every facet of the design and engineering process. An uncompromising approach to materials and craftsmanship remained and traditional visual tenets were re-imagined to express the car’s modernity. For

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01 Subtle re-sculpting of Ghost’s bumpers creates a stronger stance 02 The updated grille made way for a softer, less formal design 03 Ghost presents the perfect blend of driving dynamics and hallmark Rolls-Royce comfort 04 Updated in response to RollsRoyce’s prestigious clientele

example the stately presence of Phantom’s grille made way for a softer, less formal design – its subtle curvature more akin to a jet air-intake than traditional pantheon facia. Flowing ‘yacht lines’ and powerful flanks hint at the car’s inherent dynamism, whilst traditional Rolls-Royce DNA is expressed in the elevated prow, large uninterrupted surfaces, long bonnet and short overhang. Ensuring Ghost remains at the very cutting edge of an ever-changing world is essential, and Ghost Series II proves a showcase for the most recent technological advances from the marque. Clad in a subtle re-design, Ghost Series II ensures the timeless yet modern quality that the marque’s customers cherish. The eye is immediately drawn towards the resculpted headlights, with unbroken daytime running lights framing a new, more dynamic shape, giving it a distinct visual signature from the front. This blends perfectly with revised surface treatments to the front of the car. A tapered ‘wake channel’ on the bonnet, emanating from the Spirit of Ecstasy’s wings, evokes the sight of a jet’s vapour trail. Subtle re-sculpting of Ghost’s bumpers creates a stronger stance and a sense of extra width and height, whilst the contemporary aesthetic is further enhanced with the addition of chrome inserts to the front air intakes. One of Rolls-Royce’s defining visual signatures, the famous waft line, has be re-designed on Ghost Series II to lean further forwards. These features, married

with new optional 21” forged wheels and standard 19” wheels, ensure Ghost remains a perfectly executed, contemporary expression of Rolls-Royce luxury. Interior comfort and style are enhanced with re-designed seats. Electronically adjustable thigh supports for front seat passengers complement a new seat structure, enhancing Ghost’s unchallenged interior luxury levels. A revised rear seat design ensures absolute comfort for those wishing to conduct business or simply relax. In ‘Lounge seat’ configuration, the seats are gently angled towards each other to create a more intimate setting, allowing passengers to communicate more easily. The seats are available with three-level heating as standard with optional massage function and can be reclined. Chrome surrounds to the sun visor lights and a new soft-feel dashboard treatment enhance the car’s premium tactility, whilst sumptuous natural grain leather can now be optionally extended to the A and C pillars. The instrument dials and clock now have individually applied polished metal chaplets around the dials, evoking the precision design of hand-made luxury wrist watches, whilst the matte chrome centres ‘float’ in the middle of each instrument. Finally, the scope for bespoke customisation is widened with the introduction of two new, exquisitely crafted veneers; Paldao and Walnut Burr Crossband. Throughout the marque’s storied history, engineers have sought to refine the experience for drivers and

occupants by applying the very latest technologies. Ghost Series II is no different, presenting a full suite of the latest technological updates. On opening the car’s coach doors, one is met with a calming, light and uncluttered space. Occupants can work, relax or simply enjoy the pleasure of driving in a cosseting, peaceful atmosphere, assured that they are fully connected to the outside world of business affairs through the car’s peerless connectivity suite. Accessed through a one-touch call button or the Spirit of Ecstasy Rotary Controller, on-board Wi-Fi facilitates email, file sharing, telephony and videoconferencing. The user is also able to watch televised business news in order to remain ahead of the game. Navigation assistance can be summoned by the same one-touch call button or through voice control, where directions that anticipate and avoid unnecessary delays are offered. Information from the significantly updated Multimedia Interface and Navigation system is displayed beautifully on a new 10.25” high definition screen. In 2014, the famous Spirit of Ecstasy figurine celebrated her 103rd birthday. More than any other symbol of luxury, the flying lady stands as a genuine icon, one whose beautiful image continues to adorn the grille, but is now also reproduced within Ghost Series II’s cabin depicted below the crystal glass surface of the new rotary controller. This Spirit of Ecstasy Rotary Controller presents a touch pad with the ability to write characters by finger,

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as well as the ability to scroll through function menus by turning the chrome dial and pressing down to select its functions. The touch pad also allows ‘pull and pinch’ features, replicating intuitive smart phone functionality. These help the user pinpoint chosen areas on the screen or help to make them larger. Rolls-Royce employs experts for all aspects of high-end craftsmanship, from hand-painted coach lines to finely-tuned audio systems. Naturally incorporating the finest hardware and latest advances in connectivity, Bespoke Audio is the most exhaustively designed automotive hi-fi system ever developed. Ensuring perfect acoustic balance and performance, Rolls-Royce’s in-house audio engineers were consulted throughout the design process of the car – a practice unparalleled in the automotive world. Eighteen individually tuned speakers, with both theatre and studio settings, deliver a pure ‘larger than live’ sensation. Two bass speakers located in the boot complement seven speakers meticulously placed throughout the cabin. Two ‘exciter’ speakers in the roof lining bring the sound to occupants’ ear level creating a completely unique listening sensation. The system utilises a highly sensitive microphone to constantly monitor ambient exterior noise, subtly adjusting the volume and tone settings accordingly to ensure the system delivers consistent perfection. The technology complements this, with frequency and phase correction for individual speakers eliminating potential loud and dead spots caused by outside influences. Supplementing this industry-leading audio engineering in the true spirit of Sir Henry Royce, Ghost

Series II’s on-board hard drive holds 20.5 GB of storage, meaning it can host approximately 5,700 items of music downloaded via the USB port located within the centre console or glove compartment. iPod and iPad connections allow the importation of music, but also podcast and audio book downloads. Bluetooth audio streaming is an option too, from one of two phones that can be paired with equal functionality. A number of music searches can be made via the Spirit of Ecstasy Rotary Controller, including a “play more like this” function while online Gracenote® access for CDs with hit selection make navigating music collections an effortless experience. But it is the sound quality itself that places Ghost Series II at the pinnacle of in-car audio. The most recent developments in LED lighting technology have also been applied to Ghost Series II. The way this light is managed is significantly enhanced by adaptive technology. Electronically controlled reflectors move in the direction of travel in response to steering-wheel turns to give a greater depth of vision when cornering and a whiter, brighter light ensures effortless and safe driving on dark roads whilst helping reduce driver tiredness. In addition, automatic dipping of full-beam headlights has been replaced with revolutionary new glare-free technology. When a car approaches, light is deflected to ensure the oncoming driver is not dazzled. Ghost Series II drivers therefore enjoy the safety benefits of constant full-beam visibility. A daytime running bar frames Ghost Series II’s contemporary light design, giving the car a distinctive signature whilst augmenting safety at the same time.

05 Interior comfort has been enhanced in all elements 06 An uncompromising approach to craftsmanship remained in the new design 07 A tapered ‘wake channel’ on the bonnet evokes the sight of a jet’s vapour trail

Rolls-Royce employs experts for all aspects of high-end craftsmanship, from hand-painted coach lines to finely-tuned audio systems.

Ghost Series II’s effortless dynamism is augmented with the addition of Satellite Aided Transmission, a technology that made its debut on Wraith in 2013. This utilises GPS data to allow the car to see beyond what the driver sees, anticipating their next move based on location and driving style. It uses this information to select the most appropriate gear from the Ghost Series II’s 8-speed ZF gearbox to ensure the driver is able to appropriately exploit the power from the Rolls-Royce 6.6 liter twin-turbo V12, ensuring an effortless and seamless drive experience. Ghost presents the perfect blend of driving dynamics and hallmark Rolls-Royce comfort. Ghost Series II customers can specify a Dynamic Driving Package that offers a more involving driving experience with no compromise to ride quality. Re-designed front and rear struts married to new steering gear and adjusted dampers significantly increase Ghost Series II’s cornering ability, whilst enhanced feedback levels can be felt through a thicker steering wheel. In all specifications, ride quality and rear stability is further enhanced thanks to new rear hydraulic axle bearings. Uncompromising, never ordinary, every detail of the Rolls-Royce Ghost Series II is precisely engineered to give complete control of the road. The motorcar’s innovative engineering makes driving effortless and reliable through an ever-changing world. www.rolls-roycemotorcars.com/ghost-family/ghost Euro Motors is the sole authorized dealership for Rolls-Royce Motor Cars in the Kingdom of Bahrain.

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With almost four decades of global success under its belt, the luxury BMW sedan has continuously presented a raft of innovations unmatched by any of its rivals. Now the new BMW 7 Series blazes the trail for a modern form of automotive luxury that is in keeping with the times, but also points the way into the future.

Breaking New Ground

ith the new BMW 7 Series, BMW has redefined what an exclusive, luxurious driving experience looks like in contemporary, pioneering form. Groundbreaking technologies in the areas of lightweight design, operating systems, intelligent connectivity and interior ambience underline its mission to bring together unbeatable driving pleasure and long- distance comfort in a luxury sedan. The design of the new series provides an authentic showcase for the carâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s character. Harmonious proportions, a strongly controlled surface design and precise lines point to the stylistic confidence, assured dynamics and exclusive elegance at work. The optimised balance of driving pleasure and long-distance comfort finds clear expression in the unmistakable aura of the luxury sedan, which is available in both standard and long wheelbase variants. Characteristic features of the interior include generous levels of space accentuated by horizontal surfaces and lines, the driver-focused cockpit design, the

fusion of exquisite materials and precision craftsmanship, and the sophisticated functionality of the control and display elements. BMW EfficientLightweight helps to reduce the weight of the new models by up to 130 kilograms compared to their previous- generation counterparts. At the centre of it all is the body structure with Carbon Core, a product of the transfer of technology from the development of BMW i cars. The new BMW 7 Series is the first car in its segment in which industrially manufactured CFRP combines with steel and aluminium. The intelligent body concept uses this mixed-materials approach to increase the strength and rigidity of the passenger cell while at the same time significantly reducing vehicle weight. The new 7 Series is now available with an extensively updated V8 engine and six-cylinder in-line variants from the BMW Groupâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s latest generation of power units. All the engines link up as standard with the likewise further developed eight-speed Steptronic transmission. The BMW xDrive intelligent all-wheel-drive

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system, which can be specified as an option, also operates more effectively than ever. The addition to the model range of the BMW 740e sees the arrival in the luxury sedan segment of BMW eDrive technology, which was first introduced in BMW i cars. Dynamics and ride comfort are made to measure – and to the highest standard. Sophisticated, precision-honed chassis technology and additional chassis control systems enhance both the dynamics of the new BMW 7 Series and its ride quality. At the same time, the balance between these two facets of driving pleasure reaches a level without parallel in the luxury sedan segment. In the new series the iDrive operating system’s monitor comes in touch display form for the first time. This means customers will also be able to operate the system in the same way as modern electronic devices. In addition to using the Controller to control the system in familiar style, its functions can also be selected and activated by touching the screen’s surface. Another new addition to the iDrive system’s functionality is BMW gesture control, which is being introduced for the first time. Hand movements detected by a 3D sensor control infotainment functions in an extremely intuitive and user-friendly fashion. Also joining the fray is a new smartphone holder integrated into the centre console, which allows wireless, inductive charging for mobile phones for the first time in a car. A selection of models are specified with the optional

Executive Lounge, which redefines personal wellbeing in a luxury car, offering levels of comfort a class apart. This equipment package includes automatic air conditioning with 4-zone control, electrically adjustable comfort seats with massage function in the rear and active seat ventilation for all seats, plus the optional Executive Lounge Seating, Executive Lounge rear console and Rear-seat entertainment Experience with BMW Touch Command. The massage function now also includes the Vitality Programme, which allows rear passengers to engage in active physical exercise for recuperation purposes. The exclusive ambience inside the new BMW 7 Series is also enhanced by a precisely arranged lighting design. The Ambient light option now includes the Welcome Light Carpet, which provides eye-catching illumination of the area around the car doors. Long-wheelbase versions of the new BMW 7 Series will also be available with the Sky Lounge Panorama glass roof, which is also one of a kind in the luxury sedan segment. When it gets dark, the light emitted from side-mounted LED modules is directed evenly onto the glass surface, creating an atmospheric motif mimicking a starry sky. Outstanding sound quality is the speciality of the newly developed Bowers & Wilkins Diamond surround sound system, which has been specifically tuned to the interior of the new models. In a world-first, the BMW 7 Series is the first series-

The exclusive ambience inside the new BMW 7 Series is also enhanced by a precisely arranged lighting design.

produced car that owners will be able to manoeuvre in or out of forward-parking spaces or garages without anyone at the wheel. As such, the Remote Control Parking option allows drivers to access tight parking spaces with ease. The driver initiates the car’s progress forwards into or in reverse out of a space using the likewise newly developed BMW Display Key. While the car is carrying out the semiautomated manoeuvre, the driver watches out for obstacles. A steering and lane control assistant, lane keeping assistant with active side collision protection, rear collision prevention and crossing traffic warning functions have been added to the Driving Assistant Plus system. Meanwhile, the traffic jam assistant – which involves semiautomated driving – can be used on any type of road. And the active cruise control with ‘Stop & Go’ function now only requires drivers to press a button to incorporate speed restrictions detected by the speed limit info function. The new BMW 7 Series sees the introduction of numerous innovations, which reflect the outstanding development expertise of the world’s most successful manufacturer of premium cars. Every model of series has seen important foundations laid that ensure the new car’s status as an architect of innovative driving pleasure and groundbreaking luxury. www.bmw.com/com/en/newvehicles/7series/ overview.html

01 The new design features harmonious proportions 02 Remote Control Parking allows drivers to access tight parking spaces with ease 03 The luxury sedan has unbeatable long distance comfort 04 The interior contains generous levels of space 05 The exclusive ambience inside the new model is enhanced by a precisely arranged lighting design

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Refined Racing

For those who expect nothing but the best when it comes to levels of design, performance, safety and technology, automobile makers Infiniti and Bentley have unveiled models that take the next step towards ultimate luxury. With vehicles that reflect not only a high standard of style and elegance, but also a lifestyle, the Continental GT Speed Breitling Jet Team Series from Bentley and Infiniti Q70 truly deliver.

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01 Profile of one of the new models 02 Each model takes customisation to new heights 03 The interior features unique sculpted seats with accents in Breitling yellow 04 The dashboardâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s carbon fibre fascia panel 05 The exterior is painted in a striking duo-tone split

Continental GT Speed Breitling Jet Team Series, Bentley Mulliner, Bentley’s specialist bespoke department is taking luxury and performance to new extremes with the launch of the Continental GT Speed Breitling Jet Team Series. This exclusive series is available in the USA and is limited to just seven cars, each inspired by one of the seven Breitling Jets. Renowned for their precision, speed and daring stunts, this summer the Breitling Jet Team will be performing across the United States and Canada in a grand tour of epic proportions. To commemorate this spectacle, Bentley’s Mulliner division has re-imagined the Continental GT Speed to mirror the distinctive look of the Breitling Jets, fusing extreme customisation with immense speed. The exterior is painted in a striking duo-tone split of Hallmark and Onyx with highlights colour matched to the exact Pantone of Breitling’s unique Yellow, reflecting the trademark look of the L-39 Albatros Jets. This bespoke colour theme is continued on the interior, with unique sculpted seats featuring accents in Breitling Yellow. Taking customisation to new heights, each Bentley is individually numbered and corresponds to one of the seven Breitling Jets. The dashboard’s carbon fibre fascia panel displays an image of the seven planes in their signature Avenger flight formation, with the corresponding jet highlighted in Breitling Yellow. Similarly, Bentley’s Mulliner team have matched the hide and thread to Breitling’s signature yellow and designed a series of logos and graphics for the headrests that highlight the number of each car and

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the jet that inspired it. The tread plate plaques are also individually numbered. The series will debut at the Boeing Seafair Airshow on 31st July in Seattle, where the Breitling Jet Team is performing. The key for each Bentley will be handed over to its owner by the corresponding plane’s pilot, but not until they have experienced a flight in the jet that inspired their car. Bentley Mulliner Limited Editions are rare by design and, as a result, they all have the potential to become instant classics, desired by many but driven only by a fortunate few. Bentley Motors is the most sought after luxury car brand in the world. The combination of fine craftsmanship, using skills that have been handed down through generations, alongside engineering expertise and cutting-edge technology is unique to UK luxury car brands such as Bentley. It is also an example of high-value British manufacturing at its best. Mulliner exists to respond to the requirements of Bentley’s most discerning customers. Mulliner Limited Editions r‎eflect carefully chosen and inspirational themes. Individually these might have special significance for customers ‎in specific markets, but what they all share is the highest standards of Mulliner craftsmanship – taking the concept ‎of Bentley luxury and pushing it even further.‎ www.bentleymotors.com

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Infiniti Q70 Y.K. Almoayyed and Sons, exclusive dealers for Infiniti in the Kingdom of Bahrain have unveiled the new Q70 sedan. With a fresh new exterior, the latest evolution of the Infiniti Q70 takes the emotion-packed character of the performance sedan up another level. The new 2016 Infiniti Q70 continues to deliver evocative design, invigorating performance, innovative technology and superior craftsmanship. The Q70 is launched with the Excellence and Luxury Grade that features the Premium body design. As an added alternative, the Sport Grade is available with the Sport body design. The refined elegance of the Q70 takes on a new dramatic design, which gives the premium sedan an even more upscale image. Its flowing, emotional lines evoke premium sleekness. Infiniti’s signature LED headlights imply inner intelligence, leaving an unforgettable impression. The distinctive design accentuates the new double arch grille, which now takes on a more three-dimensional look due to the elaborate detail of the high-quality waved mesh finish and chrome surround. At the rear, the new design of the taillights creates a horizontal flow in motion while the high-quality lighting signature evokes a fresh and classy image. The top line of the trunk lid has been flattened while the rear bumper has been slimmed down to create a longer and lower visual impression, further emphasising the luxury sedan’s sporty and powerful styling. Reflecting the lines of the exterior, the new Infiniti Q70 interior features high-quality materials such as handcrafted wood accents and custom leather

appointments, as well as user-centred technologies. The instrument panel consists of Fine Vision gauges and a 7-inch full colour vehicle information display, while the leather driver and front passenger’s seats feature 10-way power adjustment. Contributing to the cultivated in-car atmosphere, the Active Noise Control feature monitors cabin noise levels and generates “cancelling” sound from four door speakers. Premium audio systems include the Bose Studio Surround sound system and additional options include the Bluetooth Hands-free Phone System, dualzone automatic temperature control, and available next-generation Infiniti Hard Drive Navigation System. The new Q70 is equipped with a 3.7-liter V6 engine that creates an enviable performance. The refined aluminium-alloy DOHC 24-valve engine is equipped with Variable Valve Event & Lift that combines hydraulic-controlled variable valve timing and electronically controlled variable valve lift on the intake side to help improve performance and response. All engines are matched to an advanced 7-speed automatic transmission, which allows for sportier shifts during spirited driving. The new Infiniti Q70 also comes equipped with the latest in safety advancements that help drivers avoid and protect against collision. Yet another first for this segment is the innovative Around View Monitor system, which shows a birds-eye view of the vehicle in relation to parking lines, creating a 360-degree surrounding view. For more information or to arrange a test drive, please call 17 732732 or visit the Infiniti showroom in Sitra.

06 The distinctive design accentuates the new double arch grille 07 The interior features highquality materials such as handcrafted wood accents and custom leather seats 08 The instrument panel consists of fine Vision gauges and a 7-inch full colour vehicle information display 09 The new design of the taillights creates a horizontal flow 10 The flowing, emotional lines evoke premium sleekness

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Must Have

My Wish List The latest and most exclusive luxury items for men

Viva la Robolución, +Brauer The M.A.D.Gallery presents fourteen astonishing sculptures by Parisian artist Bruno Lefèvre-Brauer, aka +Brauer. Born out of what could be termed a poetic resistance to overconsumption, the artist chose components for his sculptures that have an industrial past. Having been marked by time and boasting patinas derived from hard use imbues the robots with their very specific character and makes them more visually interesting. +Brauer’s luminous sculptures invite the curious into remarkable and surprising artistic worlds of what was and what could be. Each piece took months to complete and is gathered in the collection “Viva la Robolución!” www.mbandf.com/mad-gallery/creators/brauer

Hommage Millésime, Roger Dubuis Manufacture Roger Dubuis embodies a longstanding commitment to safeguarding and restoring examples of the finest watchmaking traditions, while consistently renewing and re-energising this proud horological heritage. To mark its 20th anniversary, it’s re-launched a project entirely dedicated to its Hommage collection: Millésime. As the name hints, it will mark each year with a special “vintage” in the shape of just one creation embodying a wealth of restoration work. All are based on calibres gifted by Mr Roger Dubuis himself, and will bear the prized Poinçon de Genève. Each will incorporate a perpetual calendar, either alone or accompanied by one or more of the other three most sophisticated horological complications. www.rogerdubuis.com

Vespa 946, Emporio Armani To mark 2015 – the 40th anniversary of the foundation of Giorgio Armani and the 130th birthday of the Piaggio Group – Emporio Armani has designed a special version of the Vespa 946. In keeping with Armani’s signature subdued colour palette, the designer has come up with a special combination of greys with subtle hints of green visible only under particular light conditions for the project. The metal parts, produced using galvanic treatments, have a satin finish, and create an opaque effect in line with the finishing touches of the body. The words ‘Emporio Armani’ appear on the side, while the iconic eagle logo of the brand sits above the headlight. The Vespa 946 Emporio Armani will be produced in an exclusive run of individually numbered scooters, and celebrates Italy’s most established symbols of style and creativity. www.armani.com/it/emporioarmani/vespa946_section

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Must Have

HMX, MB&F Celebrating its decade-long existence, MB&F presents their 10th Anniversary Horological Machine: HMX. Four limited editions of 20 pieces in Lotus Black, Ferrari Red, Bugatti Blue or British Racing Green, HMX is a true driver’s watch, crafted in stainless steel and Grade 5 titanium. Rotating discs on top of the movement feature mirror image numerals, which are reflected 90° and magnified by two sapphire crystal optical prisms that “project” the time onto the front vertical display. Light streaming through the transparent engine cover both illuminates the top of HMX’s engine and backlights the time display for high legibility. The automatic movement is powered by a rotor engraved with the slogan, “A creative adult is a child who survived”. www.mbandf.com

Paul Smith & Kask Helmet Having grown-up with dreams of becoming a professional rider, cycling is very close to Paul’s heart and autumn/winter 14 saw the launch of Paul Smith 531, a collection offering unprecedented quality in cycling apparel. The Paul Smith Kask helmet design sees Paul draw on his love of cycling as well his eye for colour. These qualities combined with Kask’s industry-leading skills in helmet manufacturing make for an iconic and functional design. A colour gradient fades over the helmet’s outer shell, from steely blue through purple tones to orange, printed on a silver base with an iridescent finish. www.paulsmith.co.uk

Cross Training Sneakers, Lanvin A blue “to stiffen your neck”: this is how Jeanne Lanvin described the emotion she felt when she discovered the blue to feature in her collections. It is only natural then, that for winter 2015 the colour blue has been the star focus in the fashion house Lanvin’s male wardrobe. The Blue Lanvin for Men is present everywhere: on a tie, a pocket, embroidery, and throughout clothing and accessories. It adorns a pyramid backpack with a simple strap and bar with a signature zipper. It is placed on baggy roll neck sweaters, emphasises the waist with a fine blue belt, or electrifies low-waist baggy trousers. The Cross-Training Sneakers, which have had a starring role in the Lanvin look for several seasons, boldly opt for a petrol blue tie-dye print, which is found on a wide range of little accessories: wallets and cardholders. www.lanvin.com

Rolling Stones Limited Edition, S.T. Dupont S.T. Dupont pays tribute to the Rolling Stones through a prestige collection in black placed lacquer and palladium. Inspired by the band’s distinctive song writing, the fretboard of Keith Richard’s famous guitar has been meticulously engraved on the clip of the Néo-Classique pen, while the pen cap is embellished with the lyrics of the acclaimed songs ‘Start Me Up’, ‘It’s Only Rock ‘n’ Roll (But I Like It)’, ‘You Got Me Rocking’ and ‘All Down The Line’. The Ligne 2 lighter offers musical and visual charm, similarly bearing the fretboard inspiration and song lyrics. The collection is completed with a pair of palladium cufflinks, with the rock band’s legendary tongue and lips logo. Devoted fans of the Rolling Stones will love the miniJet lighters bearing the band’s famous tongue-and-lips logo and the title of one of their greatest hits, ‘All Down The Line’, and a sparkling version is also available, covered with Swarovski crystals. www.st-dupont.com

Etqaan Collection Etqaan, a luxury design brand part of the established Iwan Group, has launched in the region, introducing the first of its kind handmade, highend heritage furniture, which uses traditional craftsmanship. With a vision to introduce the Egyptian artisanal furniture to the world, the Dubai-based company creates unparalleled premium and unique products available in select showrooms across Dubai and the GCC. Etqaan represents the evolution of traditional Arabian art while preserving the craft’s essence and techniques. The collection saw a revival of the art of historic Egyptian carpentry that requires the skill and patience of meticulously engraving Arabic calligraphy onto tables, doors, mirrors and banquettes as well as larger scale projects like hotels and mansions, with details such wood panelling and ceiling work. www.etqaan.boutique

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Must Have

Cruiser S19, Cruiser Scooter Training With a host of accolades to its name, the Cruiser S19 is an ideal travel companion guaranteed to provide the best possible comfort for those who are looking for stylish, portable, and self-manoeuvred mobility power chair for the best possible shopping experience. The model is portable, light, safe, stable, easy to manoeuvre and does not require any external force to keep the scooter in motion. Whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s more, the Cruiser S19, with its stunning design and quality, is a younger, more vibrant alternative to a wheelchair. Winning the 2014 Taiwan excellence award, and its attention to quality and aesthetics have both won it Germanyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s RW-TUV certification, the TUV NORD quality recognition and the FDA certified qualification among others, making the Cruiser S19 a superstar in the customer mobility industry. www.heartway.ae

Astro Duo Quartz Gold Collection, Designer Shaik The Desert Prince continues his incredible artistic journey and shares his creative passion with the world by presenting the Astro Duo Mark 1 Rose Gold collection of timepieces. Once again, he has established his distinctive flair, style and panache amongst the artisans of the world. Renowned as the most aesthetically unique brand in Arabia, the Designer Shaik Astro Duo collection represents yet another facet of the enigma that is Designer Shaik. These finely detailed, exquisitely crafted timepieces appeal to the most discerning of individuals creating a striking and sophisticated fashion statement. Available as limited edition timepieces only, the Astro Duo collection features an intricately detailed face, has dual time zone settings, 18K gold plated stainless steel with anti-reflective curved sapphire crystal, and an underwater capability of 100m. www.designershaik.com

My Wish List The latest and most exclusive luxury items for women

Lighting Collection, Al Huzaifa Luxury furniture makers Al Huzaifa have showcased their new avant-garde collection of table and floor lamps, with each piece telling a unique story. The designs are elaborately crafted yet minimal in appearance, as well as durable, chic and timeless. Curators with a passion for artistic furnishings and the insight that redefines luxury furniture in the region, Al Huzaifa adds light to life with this collection of decorative and practical lightings. www.alhuzaifa.com

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Must Have

Helios Mirror, Ardeco Gallery Luxury design house Ardeco Gallery reintroduces vintage pieces such as furniture, lighting and accessories from the fifties and sixties into the modern world of design. Based in Beirut Lebanon, the gallery also exhibits modernist designs from specific artists. A prime example is the Helios Mirror, a vintage sunburst mirror, which was showcased alongside other products from Ardeco Gallery at Design Days last year, and is available at Cities now. www.citiesstore.com

Baron Gold Safe The gold safe made by Baron is an exceptional piece of haute craftsmanship, perfect for those with an appetite for extreme luxury. Boca do Lobo Design Studio loved the idea of exploring the steam-punk trend, and created a refined work of art with a personality of its own, which adds a touch of exclusivity to any room. The safe includes watch winders and cigar humidors, and can be customised according to the userâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s needs. www.bocadolobo.com

Delice, Harrods Dubai based luxury chocolate and confectionery brand Delice is one of only six chocolate brands in the world available at the most exclusive Chocolate Room in the world: Harrodsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; London. The store stocks the collection of confectionary, which is delicately handcrafted by its team of connoisseurs in Dubai. A unique brand that combines French classics and distinctive opulent ingredients of rosewater, nuts and fruits from the Middle East, Delice blends two cultures with its outstanding innovative designs and premium quality. www.delice-dubai.com

Fish Brooch, Cindy Chao The Art Jewel Cindy Chao The Art Jewel works with top artisans in Europe to ensure the most skilled craftsmanship and expert gemsettings, creating exceptional pieces that redefine jewellery making. The Fish Brooch, inspired by the beauty and the grace of nature, is naturally an objet dâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;art, featuring over 30 carats of round brilliant-cut vivid green Colombian emeralds and over 120 carats of diamonds and sapphires, as side stones. It is made from titanium and white gold, which contributes to the ethereal spirit of this exquisite piece. www.cindychao.com

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Must Have

Coloured Bohemian Crystal Collection, Silica With yet another charming addition to the Bohemian Crystal Collection, Silica has crafted enrapturing crystal ware in electric purples, vibrant teals, mother-of-pearl fineness, and tiger’s eyeshades. Each piece envisions the strong and subtle appeal of the original collection with gold accents for a timelessly classic look. The design families Globus, Florale, Infinity, Falco, Picadelli and Yoko each sport new and elegantly cut glass in colours that will remain vibrantly pigmented for a very long time. www.samim.com

Leather Animal Coin Purse, Loewe Add a touch of the exotic to your accessories collection with Loewe’s Animal Coin Purse collection. Striking a balance between the brand’s age-old expertise and contemporary luxury, these calf-leather pieces are brimming with personality. Each brightly coloured purse features a zip closure with a polished palladium zip pull, and comes in a range of fun animal silhouettes. www.loewe.com

Passementerie Accessories, Lanvin Silk braids, braided tassels and golden cords are the exquisite details of the Lanvin Winter 2015 collection, and accessories have been infused with these royal adornments. The jewellery line Lanvin Veroushka tells the story of the nomad queen through an accumulation of stones linked together by ingenious passementerie and raw finishings. Necklaces, earrings and rings come in black, blue, dark red or topaz tones, and woollen braids enhance jewellery belts from the collection. www.lanvin.com

In the Pocket, Hermès With the In The Pocket watch, Hermès is reviving a fundamental piece whose history has spanned more than a century. Reinvented in 2012 under the name “In The Pocket”, this iconic model now returns in a rose gold composition clad in a sophisticated alligator exterior. The design combines a love of horses, exceptional leather-making expertise, as well as a perpetually effervescent inventiveness that meets practical needs. www.hermes.com

A Big Achievement

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Special Feature

The Biggest Book in the World project was inspired by the idea of introducing the Prophet of Mercy Mohammed (PBUH) to the world, allowing people to gain deeper understanding. The idea for ‘This is Mohammed (PBUH)’ was conceived by Dr Mohammed Saeed Al Awlaki and was written by Dr Abdullah Abdulaziz Al Muslih, Under the Patronage of his Highness Shaikh Hamdan Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Prime Minister of Dubai and Minister of Finance.

he idea for the Biggest Book in the World ‘This is Mohammed (PBUH)’ came from Dr Mohammed Saeed Al Awlaki, and his desire to introduce the personality of the Prophet of Mercy Mohammed (PBUH) to the broader public. Dr Al Awlaki is Chairman of the Board of Directors of Mshahed International Group, holds a PHD in Media, and is Founder of the Peace International Company for training and developing businessmen and the program Behaviour and Modesty in Dubai UAE. The content, written by Dr Abdullah Abdulaziz Al Muslih, renowned Saudi author and Secretary-General of the Complex for Islamic Fiqh (Jurisprudence) Research in Riyadh, focuses on the life and personality of the prophet Mohammed (PBUH).

Standing five metres tall and spanning more than eight metres across, the book was named the biggest in the world officially by Guinness World Records. The book was awarded five awards, including the biggest book, the longest book, the widest book, the heaviest book and the most expensive book. Receiving the impressive Guinness World Records awards has increased public awareness, gaining the book and its contents worldwide attention. The vision was achieved as ‘This is Mohammed (PBUH)’ enriched the media landscape in a modern and unique way, redefining tradition. The new media tactic has helped people to change the concept of misinformation about the Prophet of Mercy and introduce old ideas in a new and refreshing way.

Standing five metres tall and spanning more than eight metres across, the book was named the biggest in the world officially by Guinness World Records.

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The concept for the book was completed after three years of research by some of the leading Islamic scholars from across the Middle East and around the world. Each page is split into eight chapters and is 4.03 metres wide. The book weighs about 1,500 kilograms and is printed on high-quality recycled paper and bound in leather. It has four hundred and twenty pages and production took one hundred people between sixteen and eighteen months to make. A normal-sized version of ‘This is Mohammed (PBUH)’ will also be available in bookstores in English

and Arabic versions, as well as copies in Russian, Chinese, Italian, Uzbek and Braille. The smaller copies will be available in international cultural and tourist centres and receptions, allowing the public access, and to introduce them to the project and its goals. As part of a supporting campaign, the full size ‘This is Mohammed (PBUH)’ book has travelled the world collecting signatures from across nations as part of the ‘One Million Signatures Campaign’. www.mshahed.com

01 Dr Mohammed Saeed Al Awlaki 02 The biggest book in the world this is Muhammad on the opening day at the World Trade Center on 27th February 2012 03 Dr. Mohammed Saeed alAwlaki in the center and on the right hand His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Deputy Ruler of Dubai and Minister of Finance And on his left Gneiss Guinness Records representative instant delivery certificate

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Book Review

Dreaming of Dakar? Pining for Paris? With so much of the world to see and so little time, the popular New York Times “36 Hours” column aims to inject adventure into every weekend. Since 2011, TASCHEN has transformed the column into illustrated books that recognise that a journey does not have to be long to be memorable. Now, following on from the curated regional collections, “36 Hours” is offering the ultimate travel trio for those yearning to see it all.

The World is Waiting

he “36 Hours” column made its first appearance on the pages of The New York Times in 2002, as a source of travel tips and itineraries for those wanting to get away. The latest addition to the growing shelf of “36 Hours” books published by The Times and TASCHEN, brings together 365 of the best of the “36 Hours” columns, updated and renewed. Organised from A to Z, the handsomely packaged boxed set offers three volumes of the very best of “36 Hours” from around the world, with a total of 365 destinations, including brand new locations in Africa and the Middle East. A keycard provides instant and unlimited access to the digital edition of each

destination, so readers can plan at leisure with the beautiful, inspiring box set, and continue to access all top tips and recommendations remotely. The valuable information covers everything that is needed to see a town, city or place in the best and most time efficient way. From a business trip in Abu Dhabi to weekend excursion in remote Mongolia, “36 Hours” captures the spirit of the destination, offering travellers treasured advice on where to venture, what to look for, where to stay and what to eat. The itineraries within the pages of the books take travellers to great world capitals like New York, London, and Beijing; into tiny countries with

01 Inside the Grand Mosque, Abu Dhabi 02 The â&#x20AC;&#x153;36 Hoursâ&#x20AC;? collection 03 Dakar, the capital of Senegal 04 A geisha in Kyoto 05 Malacca, Malaysia world heritage site

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Book Review

big personalities, like Costa Rica and Slovenia; and through eye-popping landscapes from the Rockies to Rio de Janeiro and from Niagara Falls to Nice. They trace the footsteps of Bach, the Beatles, and Mark Twain. They explore the grandeur of the Parthenon and the mystery of Angkor Wat. The three new volumes contain 14 new cities never before published in the “36 Hours” book series, as well as recommendations for over 1,500 restaurants and 1,000 hotels, and over 1,000 photos and illustrations. The books are edited by Barbara Ireland, a writer and editor based in western New York State, who is a

former deputy travel editor and deputy Op-Ed page editor at The New York Times. While on the Times staff, she commissioned and edited many “36 Hours” columns and wrote a few herself. She is a graduate of Cornell University and was a John S. Knight journalism fellow at Stanford University. The “36 Hours” column has always been meant as a selective summary for travellers to pick and choose from, rather than an exhaustive view. Whatever the journey or the wanderer’s choice, there are no rules, the world is waiting. www.taschen.com/pages/en/search/36-hours

The valuable information covers everything that is needed to see a town, city or place in the best and most time efficient way. 02

SPORT HORIZONS

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Final Pearl

ArtBahrain Jewellery Arabia

H H eld under the patronage of Her Royal Highness Princess Sabeeka Bint Ibrahim Al Khalifa, ArtBahrain is being held for the first time ever from 13-16 October 2015. The art fair aspires to bring international art, artists, and collectors to Bahrain, and aims to give emerging and established artists a common platform to synergize, interact, learn, develop, and grow with the common goal of motivating a large audience towards the arts. Forming its own niche, ArtBahrain will be housed in a grand marquis, 50 meters in diameter, featuring artist’s pavilions, galleries, a lifestyle section, and a lounge. The event aims to be a common platform for both collectors and first time buyers, and is a unique perspective of each individual’s sense and sensibility in terms of what art means to them. It aims to traverse borders by not only hosting and showcasing international talent, but by connecting various schools of thought under one roof to exchange ideas and inspire others. ArtBahrain will also offer participants the opportunity to not only enhance their exposure in their country of origin, but broaden their scope of presence and influence in the Kingdom and in the region.

eld under the patronage of His Royal Highness Prince Khalifa bin Salman Al Khalifa Prime Minister of the Kingdom of Bahrain, Jewellery Arabia consistently attracts over 600 exhibitors from 30 nations; whose exhibits range from incredible finished jewellery to luxury time pieces, to precious stones of every size, shape and cut. Now in its 24th successful year, Jewellery Arabia is the largest and most prestigious jewellery exhibition in the Middle East. World famous international jewellery houses, watch manufacturers and high profile designers are regular participants, many of whom choose Jewellery Arabia to introduce new collections and limited edition pieces to the Middle East collector’s market. These well-known international names are complemented by the creative gleam of large national pavilions from leading jewellery export countries and the refined sparkle of the Middle East’s finest retailers and manufacturers. Attracting over 50,000 high quality visitors from throughout the Gulf each year, don’t miss out on the fiveday extravaganza, running from November 24-28 2015. www.jewelleryarabia.com

www.art-bahrain.com

IMPERIALE

TO BREAK THE RULES, YOU MUST FIRST MASTER THEM. THE VALLﾃ右 DE JOUX. FOR MILLENNIA A HARSH, UNYIELDING ENVIRONMENT; AND SINCE 1875 THE HOME OF AUDEMARS PIGUET, IN THE VILLAGE OF LE BRASSUS. THE EARLY WATCHMAKERS WERE SHAPED HERE, IN AWE OF THE FORCE OF NATURE YET DRIVEN TO MASTER ITS MYSTERIES THROUGH THE COMPLEX MECHANICS OF THEIR CRAFT. STILL TODAY THIS PIONEERING SPIRIT INSPIRES US TO CONSTANTLY CHALLENGE THE CONVENTIONS OF FINE WATCHMAKING.

ROYAL OAK CHRONOGRAPH IN STAINLESS STEEL.