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WELCOME
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First Impression
A word from the editor-in-chief
December 2019
Editorial Editor in Chief Khalid Ahmed Juman Deputy Editor in Chief Ahmed Khunji Art Director Nils Albrechtsen Features Editor Tariq Khonji Editors Amy Vaya Mohammed Hassan Charlie Holding Marketing and Sales International Media Sales Director Hussain Al Zaimoor Production Production Support Venkatesan J. S IT support Digital Manager Hussain Al Anjawi
DURRAH LUXURY MAGAZINE PO Box 13990, Manama, Kingdom of Bahrain T. +973 77077777 F. +973 17226555 volume 12 Issue 02 WINTER 2019
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46
Cover Image Groundbreaking icon
With each issue, Durrah delights its dear readers with the most exquisite findings from the world of luxury. we spare no effort to craft a magazine filled to the brim with interesting insights, the latest offerings, and breathtaking scenery from locations around the globe. I’m always delightfully surprised by the sheer number of talents and magnificent creations to be found in the world of the elite. We strive to capture the essence of the finer things in life. In this issue, which coincides with Jewellery Arabia 2019, we bring you a host of one-on-one in-depth interviews with the crème-de-la-crème of the watch and jewellery industry. Hublot, Panerai, Bell & Ross, Vacheron Constantin, Al Zain and more grace the pages of our magazine, offering insight into the delicate workings of some of the most prestigious brand names in history.
We also talk to daring British pilots Steve Boultbee Brooks and Matt Jones, who made aviation history by making the first round-the-world flight in a restored Spitfire, with IWC as its official timekeeper. And we get into the eccentric mind of Christopher R. King, who reveals the inspiration and vision behind his ultra-luxury brand, CCCXXXIII. Needless to say, those are just samplings of what the issue has to offer. As you have come to expect, the magazine is also filled to the brim with breathtaking destinations, prestigious hotels, delectable gourmet food, invigorating perfumes, and essential lifestyle items just to name a few.
Durrah is a premium quarterly English-language luxury lifestyle magazine, covering topics including VIP interviews, fashion, yachting, architecture, art and culture, jewellery and travel, Durrah’s quality is unsurpassed. Durrah, in Arabic, translates to ‘Pearl’, and focuses on luxury that is based on substance and lifestyle with intellect, rather than excess. On contemporary living that evolves from deepset roots, rather than globalization, ensuring an inherently authentic flavour for a globally travelled audience. With a core focus on the colourful fusion of both traditional and modern elements that make up the Arabian identity, Durrah aims to promote and preserve all of the elements that make the Arabian Gulf so unique. Durrah adopts international standards, however also remains closely connected to Middle Eastern heritage, culture and achievements, all of which are prominently featured.
Enjoy your read! ISSN 2210-1322
Khalid Ahmed Juman Editor in Chief
DURRAHMAGAZINE
www.durrah.bh e.mail: info@durrah.bh
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KEEP DISCOVERING EVEN WHEN YOU STOP 87 YACHT
Middle East
Sunseeker Middle East | Dubai | +971 4 5570301 | info@sunseekerme.com Bahrain, Kuwait, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Seychelles, UAE
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CONTENTS
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CONTENTS
December 2019
Volume 12 Issue 02 Winter 2019
054
016 032 062
010
040
Editor’s Letter
Interview with Al Zain Jewellery CEO Theo Swart
First Impression
016
Allegiance and Sacrifice
100th Anniversary of Bahrain Police
022
Pride of Bahrain
Inauguration of Alba’s landmark Line 6 Expansion Project
028
Exchanging Expertise
18th Arab Businessmen and Investors Conference (ABIC)
032
Heroes’ Welcome
Bahrain National Team’s Gulf Cup 2019 Win
036
Impeccable Quality
Exceeding Expectations
044
Selling Dreams
Interview with special sales/VIP Client Director Luca Buccellati
048
Modern Elegance
Interview with Repossi Middle East Regional Director Richard Reocreux
050
A Bedazzling Selection
interview with Shelley & Co. Director, Shelley Kabilu
052
A Triumphant Return
Pasquale Bruni reintroduces its iconic lines at Jewellery Arabia
054
Dazzling Centenary Celebration
Bentley’s one-of-a-kind fancy-yellow diamond pendant
056
An Elegant Flutter
Devji Aurum’s first Art Collection, Rafrafa
058
A Wearable Masterpiece Interview with Ricardo Guadalupe, Hublot CEO
062
Unique Luxury
Interview with Jean Marc Pontroué, Panerai, CEO
066
Military Precision
Interview with Bell & Ross CEO, Carlos Rosillo
Interview with Mia Moon Fashion, Marwa Ahmed Tawfiq
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110 100
086
068
Exquisite Complications
Interview with Vacheron Constantin ME Brand Director, Alexander Schmiedt
070
Soaring Icons
Interview with British pilots Steve Boultbee Brooks and Matt Jones
074
King of Diamonds
Harry Winston’s new additions to its iconic collections
078
Ethical Pioneers
Chopard, the Official Timekeeper of the first Mille Miglia Green rally
080
086
102
Interview with Christopher King, CEO of CCCXXXIII Fashion
Zuhair Murad’s 2020 Spring collection
090
Sweet Dreams
Modern Renaissance
Versatile Prestige
092
Oscar de la Renta’s 2020 Spring collection
Composing Beauty
Interview with Paolo Terenzi, The President and the Nose of Tiziana Terenzi
096
Fresh and Bold Perfumes for men
098
082
100
Interview with artist Kishor Shinde
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LANVIN’s Spring/Summer 2020 collection
106
Alluring Fragrances
Skyline Architect
104
Interview with Christian Soemmer, Managing Director of Cadillac Middle East
Pearl of Bahrain
Interview with Reem Mattar
Iberian Stories
Perfumes for women
Celebrating Heritage
108
Style and Substance
Valentino’s Spring/Summer 2020 collection
110
Velvet Goldmine
Billionaire’s Fall/Winter 2019 collection
112
Exquisite Style
The latest in ladies’ brand name bags
Where Beauty Blossoms Saks Fifth Avenue’s renewed beauty department
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CONTENTS
014
December 2019
114
132
142 160
128
114
136
170
The latest in designer brand women’s shoes
The best hotels in the world
Car reviews
Stepping in Style
116
Boutique Experience
Luxurious shopping destinations
Redefining Hospitality
Driving In Style
142
178
The best spas in the world
Rolls Royce Black Badge Cullinan
Serene Treatments
King of the Night
148
182
Aquila Power Catamarans
Mandarin Oriental, Milan Executive Chef, Antonio Guida
Campbell Gray Living Amman’s ‘Reflection’
124
152
The Kingdom’s transformation into a leading tourism destination
Top dining locations
120
First Class Innovation Revel in Riyadh Season
128
Royal Treatment Jumeirah Royal Saray
132
A Slice of Paradise
Culinary Alchemy
Refined Taste
160
Dynamic Allure Rolls-Royce Wraith
166
Hand-Crafted Luxury
Bentley Extreme Silver Flying Spur
Cultural Centerpiece
184
Must Haves for Men Luxury items for Men
188
Must Haves for Women Luxury items for women
196
Final Pearl
Jewellery Arabia 2019 and 18th Arab Businessmen and Investors Conference
Discover Anantara Maldives
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SPECIAL EVENT
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December 2019
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Allegiance and Sacrifice 01 HM King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa 02 HM King Hamad and HRH Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, Crown Prince, Deputy Supreme Commander and First Deputy Prime Minister
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Under the patronage of His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa, King of Bahrain, and in the presence of His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa, Crown Prince of Bahrain, First Deputy Prime Minister, the Ministry of Interior held a celebration commemorating the 100th anniversary of the founding of the Bahrain Police. Upon His Majesty’s arrival to Bahrain National Stadium where the celebrations where held, the artillery fired a 21-round salute.
His Majesty delivered a speech addressing the occasion, followed by a speech from Minister of Interior General Shaikh Rashid bin Abdullah Al Khalifa. The main celebration included an artistic historical performance detailing Bahrain’s milestones under its wise leadership, highlights of accomplishments by Bahrain Police, and fireworks. www.interior.gov.bh
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December 2019
“Upon His Majesty’s arrival to
Bahrain National Stadium where the celebrations where held, the artillery fired a 21-round salute.”
03
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December 2019
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03, 04, 06 Displays from the event 05 HM King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa receives a commemorative gift from Minister of Interior General Shaikh Rashid bin Abdullah Al Khalifa at the ceremony
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SPECIAL EVENT
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December 2019
01
Pride of Bahrain His Majesty King Hamad inaugurates Alba’s landmark Line 6 Expansion Project, which makes Alba the largest aluminium smelter in the world. On 24 November 2019 His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al-Khalifa patronised the inauguration of the Aluminium Bahrain (Alba) Line 6 Expansion Project, one of the largest brownfield projects in the region. With this, Alba is set to become largest aluminium smelter in the world, with a total production capacity exceeding one million metric tons per year. His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, Crown Prince, Deputy Supreme Commander and First Deputy Prime Minister also attended the inauguration. HM the King was received on arrival at the ceremony by Alba Chairman Shaikh Daij bin Salman bin Daij Al-Khalifa, Acting Chief Executive Office Ali Al-Baqali, other senior Alba officials, dignitaries from the Southern Governorate, and former senior Alba employees.
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HM The King underlined the importance of the milestone, which will enhance Bahrain’s global competitiveness in this important sector, support national economic development, spur growth, and create many rewarding career opportunities for Bahrainis. He highlighted Alba’s outstanding achievements and successes since the launch of its operations in the early 1970s and its importance as the first project in the region, which reflected Bahrain’s drive to diversify its economy. He stressed the crucial importance of the aluminum sector and its tangible contributions to Bahrain’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP). He paid tribute to Bahrainis who run and operate the company, with utmost responsibility and competence, wishing the company further success in contributing to the development of local industries and bolstering its global standing.
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SPECIAL EVENT
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December 2019
“HM the King toured a photography
exhibition showcasing the foundational stages of the company, and then inaugurated the Alba Line 6 Expansion Project by operating one of the reduction cells.”
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01 His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa inaugurates ALBA’s Line 6 expansion project 02, 03, 05 Speeches and aspects from the event 04 HRH Prince Khalifa bin Salman Al Khalifa, Prime Minister of Bahrain
03
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A documentary shedding light on the history of Alba since its inception was shown at the ceremony. HM the King toured a photography exhibition showcasing the foundational stages of the company, and then inaugurated the Alba Line 6 Expansion Project by operating one of the reduction cells. Reduction Line 6 was commissioned on 13 December 2018 with the delivery of the First Hot Metal, ahead of its scheduled date on 1 January 2019. This was the fastest construction of its size ever delivered in the aluminium industry. One of the longest reduction lines in the world, it is comprised of 424 reduction cells built over an area of 1,400 metres, and will add 540,000 metric tonnes per annum to the company’s total production. This brings Alba’s total capacity to more than 1.5 million metric tonnes, a remarkable growth from being a 120,000 mtpa aluminium smelter when it was commissioned in 1971.
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SPECIAL EVENT
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With a capital expenditure of approximately US$ 3 billion, the project achieved savings of more than US$370 million in the execution of Reduction Line 6 – corresponding to 16% savings from its allotted budget. Some of these savings were utilised to upgrade Alba Port to allow it to import and handle a greater volume of raw materials, as well as to finance other projects related to the Line 6 Expansion Project. The Line 6 Expansion Project has set benchmarks in sustainable aluminium production. Implementation of the proprietary Emirates Global Aluminium (EGA) DX+ Ultra Technology in Reduction Line 6 enables Alba to increase its output with no increase in energy consumption, while adopting GE’s 9HA Gas Turbine technology in PS 5 has made it the most efficient
Combined-Cycle power plant in the Gulf. The Line 6 Expansion Project also echoed Alba’s strong safety culture by recording more than 60,893,000 working-hours without Lost Time Injury as at 21 November 2019 – a notable feat in the aluminium smelting industry. As one of the Kingdom’s most significant projects, the Line 6 Expansion Project is expected to enhance the economy’s competitiveness in line with the 2030 Bahrain Economic Vision. It will significantly boost employment opportunities for Bahrainis at both Alba and the local downstream market and create many investment opportunities through local and foreign aluminium investments in the Kingdom of Bahrain.
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SPECIAL EVENT
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December 2019
01
Exchanging Expertise 01 His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, Crown Prince of Bahrain, First Deputy Prime Minister in attendance 02, 07 Displays from the conference
Under the patronage of His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa, the King of Bahrain, the 18th Arab Businessmen and Investors Conference (ABIC) and the 3rd edition of the World Entrepreneurs Investment Forum 2019 (WEIF 2019) were held in the Kingdom of Bahrain. Inaugurated by His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, Crown Prince of Bahrain, First Deputy Prime Minister on behalf of His Majesty the King, ABIC was organized and supported by the Bahrain Chamber of Commerce and Industry (BCCI) in cooperation with the Union of Arab Chambers, Arab League, The Arab Investment and Export Credit Guarantee Corporation
and the United Nations Industrial Development Organisation (UNIDO ITPO Bahrain). With more than 1,500 delegates representing the Middle East’s government ministries, public and private sectors, this economic conglomerate explored investment in the 4th Industrial Revolution and digital innovation in the region. Bahrain’s own success in this field and current standing at the forefront of countries embracing latest technological advancement was praised by government representatives, who commended the advanced investment environment of Bahrain and its futuristic economic vision. bcci.bh 02
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SPECIAL EVENT
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03 BCCI Chairman HE Sameer Abdulla Nass delivering a speech 04, 05, 06, 08 More than 1,500 delegates were in attendance
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SPECIAL EVENT
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December 2019
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SPECIAL FEATURE
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December 2019
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Heroes’ Welcome Bahrain’s National Team returned home as triumphant champions following their historic Gulf Cup 2019 win.
01 Bahrain’s National Team pose with the Gulf Cup trophy 02 His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa lifts the Gulf Cup trophy 03 His Highness Shaikh Khalid bin Hamad Al Khalifa, First Deputy Chairman of the Supreme Council of Youth and Sports and President of Bahrain Olympic Committee holds the Gulf Cup trophy 04 His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa raises Bahrain’s flag 05 Jubilant fans welcome the winning team back home
01
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06 His Majesty’s Representative for Charity Works and Youth Affairs, National Security Advisor and Supreme Council for Youth and Sports (SCYS) Chairman His Highness Shaikh Nasser bin Hamad Al Khalifa lifts the Gulf Cup trophy
Bahrain clinched the Arabian Gulf Cup title for the first time with a 1-0 victory over Saudi Arabia in the final. Mohamed Al Rumaihi netted the secondhalf winner for Bahrain to end their 49-year wait for a maiden Gulf Cup title. The 1-0 victory over Saudi Arabia was sweet revenge for the 0-2 defeat Bahrain suffered against the same opponents in the second Group ‘B’ match, which almost saw their campaign come to a premature and painful end as at that stage they had just one point from two matches. The Gulf Cup 2019 winners were welcomed back to Bahrain with a victory parade from the airport to the Bahrain International Circuit. Led by His Highness Shaikh Khalid bin Hamad Al Khalifa, First Deputy Chairman of the Supreme Council of Youth and Sports and President of Bahrain Olympic Committee, the National Team’s players, coaches, and staff boarded an open-top bus and showed off the much-coveted trophy, with tens of thousands of Bahrainis and fans who proudly saluted them and waved the red-andwhite serrated Bahraini flag.
The welcome home started with an official ceremony at the airport given by HH Shaikh Khalid followed by popular celebrations and patriotic jubilations alongside the 40 kilometers of the journey. After their arrival, His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa, King of Bahrain, awarded the National Action Medals to Bahrain’s National Football Team during a grand ceremony at The National Action Charter Monument. The ceremony, organized by the Youth & Sports Affairs Ministry in cooperation with other ministries, follows the team’s historic win of the Gulf Cup 2019. His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, Crown Prince, Deputy Supreme Commander and First Deputy Premier was also present. Upon arrival, HM was greeted by his personal representative for charity work and youth affairs, National Security Adviser and Supreme Council for Youth and Sports (SCYS) Chairman, His Highness Shaikh Nasser bin Hamad Al Khalifa, SCYS First Deputy Chairman and Bahrain Olympic Committee President Shaikh Khalid
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SPECIAL FEATURE
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December 2019
“The welcome home started with an official
ceremony at the airport given by HH Shaikh Khalid followed by popular celebrations and patriotic jubilations alongside the 40 kilometers of the journey.” bin Hamad Al Khalifa, Minister of Education Dr. Majid Al Nuaimi, Minister of Youth and Sports Affairs Ayman Tawfiq Almoayed, and Bahrain Football Association President Shaikh Ali bin Khalifa Al Khalifa. HM welcomed and congratulated the winning team on their achievement, describing the victory as a message of great importance embodying Bahraini people’s capability of competing in all fields. HM also thanked the team for representing the Kingdom in the best way, praising the dedicated efforts of the technical and administrative team in providing support for the players. HM then awarded the players the National Action Medals in tribute to their victory.
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ALPINE EAGLE With its pure and sophisticated lines, Alpine Eagle offers a contemporary reinterpretation of one of our iconic creations. Its 41 mm case houses an automatic, chronometer-certified movement, the Chopard 01.01-C. Forged in Lucent Steel A223, an exclusive ultra-resistant metal resulting from four years of research and development, this exceptional timepiece, proudly developed and handcrafted by our artisans, showcases the full range of watchmaking skills cultivated within our Manufacture.
2019/586 - Durrah Magazine / BJC - 001AE - 280 x 300 cm - Bahrein - 20/08/19
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Up Close and Personal
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December 2019
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Impeccable Quality Durrah explores one of Bahrain’s most successful import/export businesses with Founder and CEO of Mia Moon Group, Marwa Ahmed Tawfiq.
01, 03 A selection of Mia Moon’s fine jewellery on display 02 Mia Moon founder and CEO, Marwa Ahmed Tawfiq
How do you balance running three different companies? I have a managing director who runs the dayto-day business operations. I’m more focused on the overall vision and strategy of the companies, particularly looking for new potential avenues for growth. It is essential to trust your team members because you can delegate responsibilities and have faith that things will get done. Moreover, placing your faith in your team allows them to think for themselves and become problem solvers. My motto is ‘strive for progress, not perfection’. I am also a mother of four, so time management plays a crucial role in my life. My goal is to grow the business without sacrificing time with my children, which is not an easy task.
What skills or values would you say are most important characteristics, skills, and values required as the owner/Director of a business?
02
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The ability and the bravery to take risks is most important. It isn’t a characteristic that came naturally to me, so I needed to learn to trust myself and just go for it. It’s important to understand that
you will make a lot of mistakes when starting your own business, but it’s essential to be decisive and not be afraid of making them. Running a business is always two steps forward, one step backwards, especially in the beginning.
In addition to hard work, does luck play any role in your success? There is always an element of luck involved with being in the right place at the right time when certain opportunities present themselves. The key is having the self-confidence to capitalize on them and make things happen. Luck will only get you so far. To succeed you must put in the work and do right by the people that offer you these opportunities.
How do you define success? Success is the ability to meet the goals you set for yourself. I have already achieved many of my goals, but there are always new things to learn and new skills to develop. I consistently set ambitious new goals because they motivate me and help me to focus my time and energy.
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Up Close and Personal
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04 Mia Moon at Jewellery Arabia
What is your advice to female entrepreneurs reading this article?
03
Don’t be afraid to make mistakes! Everyone does in the beginning, and they’re an opportunity to learn. Believe in yourself, stay motivated, and do not be discouraged by temporary setbacks.
04
The Group has three divisions: Mia Moon Jewellers, Mia Moon Fashion, and Mia Noor. Can you tell us a little about each? I launched Mia Moon Fashion in 2012. The objective was to create a reputable import/export trading company. It’s a family-owned business, supported by a staff that is very experienced in the fashion industry. Mia Moon Fashion supplies a wide range of premium products including watches from troopers, wallets, and more from internationally recognised brands, including Gaga Milano, Fred, Nixon, Edox, MCM, and Lamy. With locations at Moda Mall and Al Ali Mall, Mia Moon Jewellers is a leading high-end jewellery business in Bahrain. We offer an exceptional range of brands, including Melissa Kaye, Joseph Gad, Carlo Barberis, Verdi, David Webb, and Gismondi 1754. Through our participation at the most prestigious jewellery exhibitions both regionally and globally, we have expanded our reach to a growing customer base of true connoisseurs. Our fast-moving consumer goods arm Mia Noor is the distributor in Bahrain for Fiji, natural artisan water, and the GCC distributor for Filicori Zecchini, one the most recognised coffee roasting brands in Italy. Having these companies work in tandem gives us a major advantage, as it provides us with access to several fields and demographics that helps our network achieve growth in all aspects of our business.
What can customers expect next from Mia Moon Group? Mia Moon Jeweller’s recently opened an office in Hong Kong that is exclusively focused on trading diamonds, allowing us to provide a more diverse selection to our customers in the GCC. We are also looking forward to opening a new store in Riyadh in 2020, which will be our first outlet outside of Bahrain. This new location will enable us to reach an even broader range of discerning Saudi customers. We are also working to improve our website, making it easier for customers to buy diamonds online. miamoonfashion.com
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Jumeirah Royal Saray Bahrain +973 77 70 70 70 | jumeirah.com/jumeirahroyalsaray | @Jumeirahroyalsaray
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UP CLOSE AND PERSONAL
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December 2019
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Selling Dreams As the House of Buccellati celebrates its 100-year anniversary, Durrah met with special sales/VIP Client Director Luca Buccellati to talk about his inspiration, heritage, and passion for details.
02
How many times have you participated in Jewellery Arabia? And what do you think of it this year? This is our fifth year participating in the Jewellery Arabia exhibition, in association with Al Zain Jewellery. The response this year has been phenomenal—for the first time, we made sales on the first day, and we have been busy with a steady stream of visitors.
Can you tell us a bit about the Opera Colour collection? This year marks our centennial anniversary, and we decided to celebrate by launching the Opera Colour collection, a new, rule-breaking version of the Opera Colour pendant, which wears unexpected nuances and materials. It is a Limited Edition Collection made up of 14 colourful models, each one produced in just 100 pieces, which are numbered on the back with a refined hand-engraving.
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What would you say is the signature style of Buccellati? A Buccellati piece is immediately recognisable because it looks so unique. Since my grandfather started the business in 1919, our pieces have had a signature style that draws upon Renaissanceperiod techniques to craft intricately textured gold jewellery. Gold is fashioned into artistic lacy, open-work designs, and ornate pieces appointed with diamonds and gemstones. Our more modern collections also draw on the same artistic style.
Where do you source your material from? After 100 years in the business, we have a trusted network of suppliers, many of whom I have known since I was a child. Most of them are Italian and supply us with materials of exceptional quality.
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UP CLOSE AND PERSONAL
044
December 2019
03
What was the most demanding creation from Buccellati’s collections? Our Macri collection, launched five years ago, is exceptionally demanding. The design is from 1934 and it requires a specific technique to produce. The ‘rigato’ effect, obtained by handmade engraving, creates a wavy, matte surface, which is embellished with brilliant-cut diamonds set in tiny star-shaped rosettes. Small and shiny gold beads play with the opaque texture and the light of the diamonds.
Does the brand remain true to its heritage or does it take a modern approach? As a global brand with 25 stores worldwide, we have to take a modern approach when it comes to running the business. However, in terms of production, we are still working the same way we were a hundred years ago. Our craftsmanship is of the highest standard. Everything is handmade in our factory in Milano, and a single piece can take a year and a half to produce.
How would you describe the Buccellati customer? Who is it for? Buccellati is aimed at very sophisticated people who tend to already have large jewellery collections. Our first-time customers may have likely seen our pieces in a magazine or worn by a friend, but most of our customers are repeat clients
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who already own at least one of our pieces. We are noticing that our customer profile is getting younger, which is a testament to the enduring quality of our designs.
How is Buccellati performing in the Middle East market? The Brand is doing very well in the Middle East, particularly in Doha and Dubai, with Bahrain leading the way. These markets account for 15 percent of our annual turnover, and while we do not yet have our own store in the region, it is something we are working towards. In terms of customer profile, it is a delight to work with customers here. They are already familiar with our brand and they know what they want.
What future plans are in store for the Buccellati brand? We want to expand the company footprint worldwide, but not by much. We currently have 25 stores worldwide, and I’d say the target would be a maximum of 32 stores. The reason for this is that we love being a family business. Our pieces are not mass-produced, and when everything is handmade and one-of-a-kind, there is a limit to how much you can produce. If we had any more stores, we wouldn’t have enough items to supply all of them. We do not want to compromise on our quality craftsmanship.
04 01 Luca Buccellati 02 Vintage bracelet 03 Buccellati, Shanghai 04 Buccellati artisans at work
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December 2019
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“We want to be the brand of choice for the modern, edgy Middle Eastern woman.” 046-048 Repossi Jewellery D46.indd 46
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01 Luminant ear cuffs with emerald 02 Emerald and diamond necklace 03, 06 Blast collection 04 Antifer ring 04
Modern Elegance Repossi Middle East Regional Director Richard Reocreux catches up with Durrah to discuss the celebrated Italian brand’s iconic collections and its participation at Jewellery Arabia 2019.
What do you think of Jewellery Arabia this year? It was great to be back after a three-year absence and we wanted to make a strong statement in Bahrain with our new collection. Since the LVMH Group took a majority stake in the company, we have been working to develop the brand by building our retail network and creating more incredible jewellery for our customers. The attendance for this year’s Jewellery Arabia exhibition was very good and the event attracted many VIP customers from across the region, particularly from Saudi Arabia.
You have several iconic collections. Which of Repossi’s collections remained the most popular over the years? The Antifer Collection continues to be one of our best-sellers. It ranges from affordable options to more complex variations where the peaks are
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assembled in asymmetrical rhythm to suggest a cliff or a complex pattern. These more complex variations come in full diamond pavé versions, covering the entire surface of the rings and peaks – creating a technical achievement with a new, strong graphic result. The new Blast collection, inspired by tribal and African handcrafted, stacked gold bangles, is also very popular. Blast is composed of rings, cuffs, and ear cuffs set with pear-shaped or cushion-cut diamonds, available in Repossi’s signature pink gold. The Blast rings and ear cuffs also exist in white gold and black gold, diamond-paved versions.
What is Repossi’s design philosophy? The House of Repossi was founded in 1920 in Turin, Italy and continues the creative family legacy of talented artists and designers extended from father to son, and later from father to daughter. When Gaia took over from her father, she created a radical new direction in the collections. Her work
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December 2019
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emphasises a distinctive architectural viewpoint in the jewellery pieces, challenging the historical ateliers with groundbreaking new designs, and giving impulse to a new generation in search of change and tradition at the same time. The DNA of the Brand is articulated through elegant designs of wide sculptural shapes, combined with subtle austerity within statement collections, all strongly influenced by modern and contemporary sculpture and architecture.
What material do you prefer using in Repossi creations? We mainly use white and pink gold, the latter of which is very light and discrete. For women who love to combine traditionalism with modernism, pink gold is the perfect balance between the two. Its soft rosy blush colour looks great on its own, but also comes alive when paired gemstones or diamonds. We are also known for using black gold, which gives an edginess to our creations. It makes for nonconforming, non-conventional jewellery choices and has an eye-catching, beautiful appearance.
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Because black is an uncommon colour for jewellery, seeing any black jewellery item will immediately be an attention-grabber and is perfect for any occasion.
What’s the most challenging part of creating jewellery? All our designs are new; we don’t borrow from our past and constantly strive to create something fresh for our customers. Since 2007, Gaia Repossi has been the House’s Artistic and Creative Director. She has taken after her father, Alberto Repossi, who is the grandson of Repossi’s founder. Repossi’s creations are a testament to Gaia’s passion for modernising the House’s DNA through her references to art and architecture, whilst drawing on the very best jewellery expertise cultivated in the ateliers by generations of craftsmen to express the most daring concepts.
How would you describe Repossi’s performance in this region in terms of sales? The Middle East region is a very important market for us, and our customers here are incredibly discerning. As well as our boutiques in the region, many Arab customers visit our other locations around the world, particularly in Paris, Monaco, and London.
What should we expect from Repossi next? We are working on new collections and look forward to showcasing our new offerings at next year’s Jewellery Arabia Exhibition.
What statement does Repossi aim to make as a brand?
Available worldwide, the House of Repossi offers bestselling jewellery pieces from collections such as core Berbère, graphic White Noise, and a more affordable Antifer. Specialties also include engagement and wedding rings, as well as rare oneof-a-kind diamond solitaires in addition to limited edition pieces and exclusive collaborations.
We want to be the brand of choice for the modern, edgy Middle Eastern woman.
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70 power catamaran
P.O. Box 450350, Dubai, UAE Tel: +971 4 5570301 | Mob. no. +971 554712994 info@aquilayachts.me | www.aquilaboats.com
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A Bedazzling Selection
December 2019
01 Shelley Kabilu 02 Beautiful natural fancy color diamonds 03 Gorgeous fine jewellery
Shelley & Co is a leading expert, sourcer, supplier and manufacturer of rare natural fancy color diamonds and jewellery. The company’s Director Shelley Kabilu tells Durrah about her rise to the top.
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What did you think of this year’s Jewellery Arabia?
Do you have any upcoming products/ collections you can tell us about?
This year’s Jewellery Arabia had a wonderful combination of widely recognized high jewellery and watch brands, exhibiting alongside young talented designers. There was a great selection of local and international exhibitors with a beautiful range of collections. I was very happy to see a large presence of jewellery brands founded and run by women. The exhibition was busy and the atmosphere was incredibly exciting and positive. You could feel the deep interest and profound passion for jewellery at the fair. There were crowds of people queuing at the entrance to shop and view the jewellery at the exhibition. I was very impressed by this year’s Jewellery Arabia. I am already looking forward to be back in 2020.
The “Colors of Nature Collection” is inspired by the beautiful colors of nature, like a sea of turquoise, a baby blue sky, rare pink sand beaches, golden brown mountain ranges, champagne colored deserts, multi colored animals, tropical birds, exotic fish, bright yellow sunflowers, red roses, deep green pine trees, a chameleon that changes his color to camouflage himself just like chameleon diamonds. The collection features a range of Fancy Color diamonds in a variety of spectacular designs that include magnificent shades of pink, blue, green, grey, violet, champagne, orange, purple, yellow, red, and chameleon diamonds. The Colors of Nature Collection was designed for someone who appreciates art, and beauty. Each piece is truly a01treasure of the earth, just like a rare natural pearl
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from the seas of Bahrain. The collection continues to be very successful, although the quantity is limited because of the rarity of the diamonds. Fancy color diamonds have always been rare and are getting rarer by the day. This is the challenge of our collection and is why our clients keep coming back to us. We have made it our mission to travel the world and source the most beautiful of colors and the rarest of the gems for them. Each piece of Jewellery from this collection is one of a kind and is offered in different price ranges. We are very excited about this collection, because it has been a great success with our clients and continues to be. Shelley & Co also offers a collection of engagement rings, eternity bands, earrings, bracelets, necklaces and bridal sets, made with different shades of Natural Fancy Color and White Diamonds. We can custom tailor special orders, and requests for a bespoke jewellery experience.
What sets Shelley & Co apart from its competitors? Surrounded by legendary diamonds from a young age, I am constantly commissioned, and sought out for my in-depth knowledge and ability to source extraordinary diamonds, and gems from vast parts of the world. I have been supplying and trading diamonds for many years to some of the world’s most prestigious brands, dealers, and consumers. Some of my strengths include my keen eye for detail, my sharp knowledge of pricing, strong connections around the world, and my quest for perfection in everything that I do. My love affair with diamonds have set me out on a journey over the years in search for the finest, and rarest diamonds and gems of the earth. One of the diamonds that I am proud of is the well-known “The Shelley Red”. It’s a pear-shaped Fancy Red, VS clarity diamond. It was mentioned in books published by the Gemological institute of America, which wrote about its extraordinary color and attributes. It has also been written about by color diamond researchers and authors. It has been an absolute adventure and exciting treasure hunt that has led me to some of the most remote, and magnificent places. It continues to be my passion for over 20 years. Shelley & Co is the only company specializing in Natural Fancy Color Diamonds that has been founded by a woman and run exclusively by women in the international diamond industry. I am proud to be part of a specialized and niche market as a visionary and a leader in this niche. I always love to inspire young people in the industry that would like to follow in my footsteps. Currently, there is no course offered or taught for color diamonds at the GIA (Gemological institute of America) because they are so rare. I take pride in educating my clients. Shelley & Co is involved in the entire process from sourcing diamonds, to creating finished jewellery, and selecting each stone in stone in the process. Our jewellery is custom-made wearable art, created by some of the world’s best artisans at our Atelier in New York.
How has the company evolved over the past 15 years (since its inception)? In the beginning, we specialized exclusively in loose Natural Fancy Color Diamonds. Over the years, the business has flourished, and now has a range
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of beautiful jewellery collections, and a magnificent selection of white diamonds and rare gems.
How important is the Middle East market to your company? Clients in the Middle East have always loved and appreciated fine jewellery from the beginning of time. It is a part of the culture embedded in a rich heritage, tradition, and history. Diamonds, gems, natural pearls, and jewellery have always been loved, cherished, adorned, given as gifts, customized for weddings, special occasions, and purchased for its value. Jewellery is appreciated, as a piece of art. The woman, and men in the middle east have a very elegant, and refined taste. They are also some of the first to wear the latest trends in fashion and jewellery and are amongst the world’s top trend setters. This market has always been and continues to be an inspiration to me. Shelley & Co’s reputation is built on the pillars of trust and quality, which has enabled us to build strong relationships, and friendships with our clients in the region for many years. We take pride in this achievement. Since I’ve been involved with this market, I had a long-term vision. I would like to be more involved in the future investing more time here. Educating and helping to bring value, to our customers in the Middle East is of the utmost importance to me. My roots are from the region, which makes me very happy each time I come for a visit. It always feels like home, and the people here are truly so kind and amazing.
Why do you think that fancy color diamonds are growing in popularity so rapidly? Fancy colored diamonds have always been sought after and prized by collectors. Only a select few could acquire and own them. They have been growing in popularity because of their rarity, beauty, and investment value. Color diamonds exploded in popularity after Jennifer Lopez was presented with a beautiful 6.10 carat Pink Diamond Harry Winston ring by her than fiancé Ben Affleck in 2002. He kicked off a craze for one of the world’s rarest diamonds and set an increase in value. Women around the world with a desire for something special, choose Fancy Color Diamond engagement rings, over traditional white diamond rings, as well as other jewels with color. I can truly understand the desire to own something so unique, since natural color diamonds are some of the most beautiful diamonds on Earth. When I wear my color diamond pieces, it always feels special to me. Sometimes it feels as if I am wearing them for the first time, other times there are memories I have, and emotions I feel for them. They can be understated, and magnificent at the same time depending on the piece. I always get an endless number of compliments and adoration. I love speaking about the origins of the diamonds, and the telling story of each jewel. The rarity of these items cannot be overstated. Fancy color diamonds account for less than 1% of all diamonds in the world like yellow, brown, and champagne. Rarer colors like red, violet, purple, pink, blue, green, orange, and violet account for less than 0.001%. Red diamonds are the rarest, and the most expensively priced per carat. It is quite extraordinary to find a red diamond over one carat. Color diamonds attain their color during formation in the earth hundreds of
years ago. The color can be a result of trace elements such as boron, hydrogen or nitrogen present at the time of formation, or it can be a result of distortions of the carbon crystal lattice. For instance, fancy blue diamonds owe their color to Boron atoms that are present in the crystal lattice. They come in different shades, hues, and intensities of color, like pastel pink, deep blue, light pink, and intense green. There are different options available for anyone wishing to own a color diamond, within a broad range price ranges.
Why do you think diamonds as an investment is such a popular trend? Over the years, fancy color diamonds have steadily, and at times rapidly, increased in value. More often people are looking at important white, natural fancy color diamonds as an investment, and to add to their collections rather than a piece of jewellery. As people are becoming more knowledgeable about the rarity of important white, and natural fancy color diamonds they have become an increasingly popular place to store wealth. These diamonds are coveted and considered to be a place to hold value for the future. They have been purchased by some to be added to portfolios along with art, real estate, tech, health, and other investments. At times when there is instability in the economy, volatile currencies, and political situations in many regions there has been an increasing demand for tangible assets, and portable wealth. Every now and then you hear about a diamond breaking a record price at auction. Now a-days it seems, there is a record-breaking diamond every year. They are highly sought-after trophy items inciting bidding wars at auction. The Oppenheimer Blue”, sold for $57.5 million in May 2016. In April 2017, a new world auction record was set for The Pink Star, a 59.60-carat oval mixed-cut Fancy Vivid Pink Internally Flawless diamond sold for US$71.2 million. The 18.96 carat Pink Legacy Diamond, set a world auction record for the highest price per carat paid for a pink diamond in Nov 2018. It was sold for $50 million.
Are Shelley & Co diamonds ethically sourced? All Shelley & Co diamonds are ethically sourced and, in many cases, we handle them all the way from mining to cutting. We always take great care in doing our due diligence when sourcing diamonds from various sources throughout the world. Our diamonds come from many different countries, and regions. Some of our pink diamonds come from the Argyle mine in Australia, which has brought out some of the most spectacular pink and red diamonds. Unfortunately, it is set to close in 2020 because the supply has been depleted, and the supply is limited at the moment. Some of our yellow diamonds come from mines in Canada which are required to adhere to the highest environmental and humanitarian standards. Some of our other diamonds come from mines in Brazil, Russia, and Africa. My love for the colors of nature, people of many cultures, and protecting our planet, inspired me to design a collection based on the colors of nature. Ethically sourcing is of extremely high importance to me and is even more so because my passion. shelleyandco.com
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JEWELLERY
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A Triumphant Return Renowned Italian jewellery house Pasquale Bruni reintroduced some of its most iconic lines at this year’s Jewellery Arabia exhibition, marking its first appearance at the show in almost 15 years alongside its partner in Bahrain, Asia Jewellers.
Backed by a rich 50-year history, the Maison has a legion of fans around the world, drawn to its luxurious handmade creations. During this year’s exhibition, Pasquale Bruni showcased its one-ofa-kind Atelier piece; the Vento Collection; and the Couture Collection, Lakshmi, which is defined by intense craftsmanship reminiscent of the little-hand tailoring of Milan fashion show couture dresses. Giardini Segreti, a piece of high jewellery that is both sophisticated and easy to wear, was also on display. The Milanese hidden courtyards inspired the piece, which features an overlay stone setting unique to the brand, adding a timeless luxury enhancement to the collection.
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01 Giardini Segreti ring in white gold and white diamonds. 02 Atelier Vento ring in white gold, ruby and diamonds pavé leaves, and central rubellite.
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03 Chakra necklace in white gold, white diamonds and emerald central drop 04 Lakshmi bracelet in rose gold white diamonds and pink chalcedony. 05 Joli earrings in pink gold, white and champagne diamonds, white agate and mother of pearl doublet and pink chalcedony. 06 Giardini Segreti necklace in white gold and white diamonds.
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Visitors also had the opportunity to discover the Bon Ton and Joli collections, with the contrarié earrings representing dreamy flowers reaching the moon on dancing wings and stems of diamonds into the heart of the night. The unique shade of blue was achieved using the doublets technique, superposing a white agate and blue lapis. This piece is one of many highlighting the know-how featured in Pasquale Bruni’s creations. Pasquale Bruni has created stunning jewellery for women all over the world for two generations. Every creation blends the nobility of metal with the richness of gemstones, and each piece is made by hand in Italy. The work behind these pieces is the expression of a ‘Vera Passione’, a true passion that anyone wearing Pasquale Bruni’s jewellery can feel. pasqualebruni.com
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JEWELLERY
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December 2019
Dazzling Centenary Celebration As part of its centenary celebrations, Bentley unveiled a stunning, one-of-a-kind fancy-yellow diamond pendant that draws inspiration from the heart of the EXP 100 GT
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Revealed at the Jewellery Arabia Show in Bahrain, the Centenary Jewel is a unique creation that underscores the brand’s luxury credentials and spotlights its meticulous attention to detail. This collaboration between Heinz Mayer and Bentley Motors showcases the pinnacle of handcrafted quality and design. The pendant’s journey starts with Bentley designer Chris Cooke, who created the original designs for the magnificent gold and platinum settings displaying the unique 20.08-carat pearshaped fancy-yellow diamond. The EXP 100 GT, the concept car that embodies the brand’s vision of luxury mobility during the next phase of its future development, was his inspiration. The centrepiece in the concept car is a visualisation of the users’ contact point with the vehicle, which Bentley wanted to echo with this exquisite piece of fine jewellery. The design is a similar dynamic form manipulated in a way that supports and protects the teardrop shape of the stone. Its overall purpose is to be a beautiful visual contact point between the customer and the rare stone. The final designs were given to expert Master Goldsmiths at Heinz Mayer in Idar-Oberstein,
Germany, for a feasibility study. The first prototypes were crafted, checked and compared to the original design files. Through this method, the collaborative arts of graphic computer design and craftsmanship develop and fuse into one. After the design was finalised and approved, the work of expert craftsmen and women, trained in the hallowed traditions of jewellery-making which date back to Roman times, began. Wing-like shapes were meticulously honed in platinum and bent to hold a cradle of 18-karat yellow gold, encrusted with 56 natural diamonds and a laser engraved insignia, to commemorate 100 years of Bentley. This cradle became the holder of the prestigious pear-shaped fancy-yellow diamond, a breathtaking 20.08 carat natural fancy intense VS2 diamond certified by the Gemological Institute of America. An inside plank of yellow gold follows the curve of the platinum and is welded and soldered to it, eventually becoming one fluid shape. This cocoon holds 30 fullcut round natural diamonds to surround the precious pear in the centre. Yards of Italian platinum chain were brought into the workshops where specially trained chain-goldsmith experts cut them into more than two-dozen segments,
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01 With utmost care, a master gem setter places the 20.08 carat natural fancy intense yellow pearshape diamond in the setting 02 Glorious past and present – the 20.08 carat pear-shaped diamond in all its finished beauty standing against a backdrop of transition tools used by master goldsmiths in its creation 03 The Bentley Centenary Pendant – a 20.08 carats natural fancy intense yellow diamond of even colour certified by the Gemological Institute of America in its 18K Gold and Platinum setting
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“This cradle became the holder of the
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before soldering them back together with 18 karat gold mountings. The exquisitely crafted chain holds 20 white round natural brilliant cut diamonds. Together with a platinum clasp and two Bentley wing badges, which carry the inscriptions of diamond weights and clarity, as well as the serial number, the chain was finally assembled. An equally well-crafted extender was added so that this masterpiece can be worn at two lengths of 42 cm and 45 cm, respectively. After the work of the master goldsmiths was done, the mounting was brought to the polishing department, where a senior craftsman with a lifetime of dedicated attention and judgment brought out the first sparkle. After being properly secured by a master gemstone setter, the finished piece was brought to the polishing department. While the pre-polish was a demanding task that took several hours, the final polish took over a day to bring out the final sparkle of brilliance. After weeks in the workshop, the team of craftsmen and designers came together to view the result of their hard work. After they reviewed their handiwork and accepted the result, all the moulds were destroyed to ensure that the masterpiece can never be duplicated, a fitting salute to 100 years of Bentley. bentleymotors.com
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SPECIAL FEATURE
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December 2019
An Elegant Flutter Devji Aurum enticed visitors at this year’s Jewellery Arabia exhibition with its first Art Collection, Rafrafa, a unique collaboration with Bahraini artist Khalil Al Hashimi that blurs the line between sculpture and jewellery. 01
01 Khalil Al Hashimi 02 Rafrafa
Designed around the visionary artist’s signature bird sculpture, Rafrafa is the first edition of Devji Aurum’s Art Collection. It reflects an immense joint effort to bring a shared dream to life in the form of stunning gold jewellery. Devji Aurum artisans designed the entire collection with careful precision to maintain the artist’s original concepts while pushing the boundaries aesthetically, functionally, and innovatively. ‘Rafrafa’ is the Arabic word for ‘flutter’, which is represented by the delicate elegance of the birds that feature in this collection. The birds symbolise the aspiration of free minds towards enlightenment, a spiritual and artistic concept that is reflected in both the original sculpture and the jewellery. Commenting on the collection, Mr. Al Hashimi said: “As a child, living by the shores of Manama, I always admired the seagulls that tread on fine sand and leapt into flight with the winds. They were creatures that danced between two worlds;
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free and majestic. As an artist, I longed to celebrate that spirit of eternal freedom in my sculptures. I am thrilled that, through the efforts of Devji Aurum, this manifestation has been transformed into a wearable token and hope these birds find a nest in your hearts like they found their way into mine.” Driven by its ethos of Innovation, Craftsmanship, Integrity, and Empathy, Devji Aurum has narrated spellbinding stories since its inception in 1950. To this day, the company strives to enhance the spirit of visual artistry, indulging its clients’ senses and capturing their imaginations with remarkable designs. The Devji family have been patrons and connoisseurs of various forms of art for seven decades, introducing intricate forms of designs through jewellery. The Art Collection exemplifies the brand’s vision to bring fine art and finesse together under one collection. 02
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devjiaurum.com
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December 2019
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A wearable masterpiece Hublot CEO Ricardo Guadalupe chats with Durrah about the importance of collaboration, the symmetry between art and watchmaking and the launch of the Big Bang Sang Bleu II, a dynamic piece that channels the design skills of famous tattoo artist Maxime Plescia-Buchi.
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Why is art such an important area of focus for Hublot? Art is a continuation of the partnerships we have, especially in sports with football and Ferrari. We always try to collaborate with artists whose art is very expressive so that we, in turn, can translate their art into our watches. This is why we collaborated with Richard Orlinski for sculptures, Sang Bleu for tattoo art, the late Cruz-Diez with his kinetic style, and Shepard Fairey for street art.
What are the similarities between tattoo art and watchmaking? It depends on the tattoo art and style. Maxime Plescia-Buchi’s art specifically is very graphic, which makes it easier to interpret as a watch. We succeeded in extending his graphic art throughout the whole watch, noticeably on the hands and
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the case, and the result was very encouraging as the watches were highly appreciated all around. A key component of contemporary Pop Culture, tattooing is no longer the sole preserve of a largely masculine underground scene. From a primitive practice to a celebrated field of art and a cultural phenomenon, its growing creative influence shows that tattooing is not merely a trend but a cultural shift, which will last and influence generations to come. As is watchmaking, which lives through generations.
Which of the Big Bang Sang Bleu pieces is your favourite and why? It’s hard to say. I liked the first edition a lot, but the second one is designed with more detail, with a 3-dimensional aspect we did not have on the initial edition. I could say I prefer the Big Bang Sang Bleu II.
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December 2019
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How does the Big Bang Sang Bleu II chronograph differ from the original 2016 model? The Big Bang Sang Bleu II is more ambitious than the Big Bang Sang Bleu of 2016; it channels the design skills of Maxime Plescia-Buchi with a case boasting more finely-chiselled lines, conveyed in three dimensions. It is an expression of the passage of time, the hands – two elongated diamonds and an arrow – are stylised fragments of tattoos, set above a hypnotic chronographic movement. The motif spans the case, cutting into its hexagonal bezel and carving into the sapphire crystal, juxtaposed against the hands with their geometric lines, and moulded onto the interchangeable bracelet.
Can you tell us more about the internal workings of the Big Bang Sang Bleu II?
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Within the meticulously interlaced geometric lines of this new case lies the HUB1240 Unico manufacture self-winding chronograph movement. The chronograph seconds are tracked along a straight hand, whilst the chronograph minutes complete their laps on one of the two discs on the dial. It oscillates at a frequency of 28,800 vibrations per hour for 72 hours. Two hundred titanium and 100 King Gold pieces were released.
01 Ricardo Guadalupe, CEO of Hublot 02 Maxime Plescia-Buchi, Tattoo artist and founder of Sang Bleu 03 Big Bang Sang Bleu II King Gold 04 Big Bang Sang Bleu II Titanium
How important is collaboration with different partners to Hublot’s creative process and why? Through our different partnerships, we find new inspiration to design our watches. It’s thanks to those partnerships that the timepieces become works of art in their own right. Hublot and their ambassadors collaborate to create innovative, audacious and unique timepieces. Over the years, our collaborative approach with industry leaders has driven the creation of truly groundbreaking timepieces.
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“Two hundred titanium and 100 King Gold pieces were released.”
How does Hublot stay ahead of the curve?
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Keen to preserve our traditional and cuttingedge expertise, and guided by our philosophy to “Be First, Different, and Unique”, Hublot is consistently ahead of the curve, through our innovations in materials, including scratch-resistant Magic Gold, ceramics in vibrant colours, and the creation of manufacture movements such as the Unico, Meca-10, and Tourbillon. Covering a wide range of professions and manufacturing techniques involved in the art and science of watchmaking, Hublot employs different methods of this centuries-old craft to accommodate the latest in materials and fabrication techniques, as well as the most traditional forms of handwork, all under one roof. It is this flexibility in manufacturing that allows Hublot to remain at the helm of innovation in watchmaking and produce unique and cuttingedge timepieces.
Are there any other upcoming collections or editions you can tell us about? In January 2020 we will introduce a completely new watch with a metal bracelet. It is a model that was thought from the bracelet backwards, to become an integrated watch. It will be a first for Hublot.
How important is the Middle East market and how has Hublot’s customer base here evolved in recent years? The Middle East is very important for Hublot and constitutes almost 10% of our international market. Our customers here are very mature and knowledgeable when it comes to horology and have an expansive watch culture, so it is crucial for us to be here. Our number one boutique worldwide is at the Dubai Mall, which boosts our sales to tourists and local customers. hublot.com
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December 2019
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UNIQUE Luxury Panerai CEO, Jean-Marc Pontroue shares his thoughts on the iconic brand’s strategy of revolutionary innovation and its ever-growing ‘Paneristi’ community.
This year, Officine Panerai made diving watches a separate collection. What was the reason behind that move? One of the first things I have done since my arrival to Panerai was to simplify the product offering into 4 main collections. Each collection corresponds to one of the Panerai cases, which are: Radiomir, Luminor, Luminor Due and Submersible. Splitting the Submersible watches from the Luminor collection was a natural step as the two have very different characteristics and target audiences. Submersible is for sure the sportier line. 2019 for Panerai was the year to celebrate the Submersible collection, while the next one will be the year of the Luminor.
What would you say are the unique qualities of the Panerai brand? The power of Panerai is having both the Italian origin, spirit and design and the know-how and precision of Swiss manufacturing. Panerai’s Italian side is for sure a source of richness for the brand;
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it permeates completely Panerai products. The meaning of the slogan “Laboratorio di Idee” which is a big part of the brand is very original. I think that the greatest value of a brand is its ability to be different from what already exists and at the same time, its ability to create new modern stories. Thanks to its origin, materials / movement and innovative skills, Panerai can achieve that. It is important to convey all this in a simple way to clients.
The Paneristi give your brand the distinction of having the most enthusiastic followers. What is your relationship with them? Since my first day at Panerai, I have always believed that our brand is incredibly lucky to have a close connection with the Paneristi community. This community of highly motivated fans numbers 30,000 members and continues to grow. They are uniquely devoted to Panerai, in a way I’ve never seen before. The more I meet them, the better I feel, because it gives me the opportunity to develop
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an incredible relationship with the people who support us all day long; and their expertise in the watch industry represents a strong asset for our brand since they provide valuable feedback.
times, but also to be ahead of it. Just to name a few of them: BMG-TECH, Carbotech, DMLS Titanium, and Forged Carbon. In the future, we will continue to use new high-tech materials to enrich the collections.
What has been the most successful Panerai watch to date?
How would you describe Panerai’s performance in the Middle East market?
The Luminor is our iconic and best-selling collection due to its immediate recognisability, and thanks to the Panerai Safety Lock crownprotecting device.
What are the main materials used in Panerai watches? Are there new trendy elements included? Panerai’s approach stands firm through our ‘Laboratorio di Idee’ claim. Our goal is to be positioned as a brand that is innovative and that continues to contribute to the 21st century watchmaking. We are using and will continue to use innovative and revolutionary materials, not only to keep up with the
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The watch market in the Middle East is remarkably profitable and has been growing steadily over the years. That is because people in the region have always had an affinity towards the more luxurious lifestyles and tastes, and this is something we clearly see in the watch industry as well. It’s also a relatively young and affluent population here with a higher disposable income than other markets, so we are confident towards the market growth and consequently towards Panerai’s performance.
What will be the strategic direction of Panerai going forward?
December 2019
Moving forward, Panerai will stand out even more with our ‘Laboratorio di Idee’ workshop of ideas approach, which is devoted to experimentation and implementing highly innovative ideas. We are positioned as an innovative brand, from our movement development to material experimentation. We will also continue to focus on “experiences” that will allow our customers to live the Panerai lifestyle and be in the brand’s elements.
What do you look for in a new watch? In a new watch, I don’t only look at the technicality and the perfection of its movements. One of the aspects that really matters for me is the emotion that immediately drives the purchase of a new specific watch. I think that luxury products highlight your individuality so it’s extremely important to find the perfect fit. panerai.com
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is remarkably profitable and has been growing steadily over the years.�
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December 2019
Military Precision Durrah caught up with Bell & Ross CEO Carlos Rosillo to talk about their military-inspired chronographs, instantly recognizable by their functional, no-nonsense designs, which have graced the wrists of military men, pilots, divers, and F1 drivers. 01
You recently unveiled the BR05 collection. Can you tell us a bit about it? From the brand’s inception, Bell& Ross watches have been tough and functional. The idea was to create instrumental pieces, inspired by everything military – special forces, diving commandos, airforces, and field action in general. However, 13 years ago we launched the BR 01, a watch that would become a true cornerstone, a modern icon of watchmaking, easily recognizable amongst hundreds of other watches and a watch that laid the foundations for the decade to come: the BR 01 Instrument. Retaining its military roots, it is built for the modern man. The BR 05 builds on this success. It is the brand’s declaration of independence, a solid core watch, with its own design that will be derived in multiple different editions. It retains the same iconic look, comprising a round dial within a square case secured with four screws and an integrated bracelet, but it is aimed at the urban explorer, a city man who wants a unique, functional piece he can wear every day.
What makes Bell & Ross watches so closely associated with military? We are honoured that the high standards of our watches have been recognised by many professional
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organisations: the French Air Force, Raid, submariners, and anti-mine military squads. That is primarily because our designs are permeated with military roots. Our watches are suitable for professional use and adhere to strict military specifications where function takes precedence over design. We took the design of antique dashboard instruments found on military aeroplanes and put it on the wrist. Most of these military instruments share a no-nonsense design, based on functionality. In order to be easily inserted in a dashboard, they were mostly squareshaped with 4 functional screws (one in each corner) and with a round dial in the centre. Black was the standard colour, again for functional reasons – avoiding reflections in the cockpit and offering a great contrast with the radium/tritium indexes and hands.
What are the main materials that go into Bell & Ross watches? In keeping with military specifications, we choose functional, durable materials. Our latest watches are constructed of Carbone forgé, an ultra-sophisticated material that is used to build Rafale fighter jets. It is very lightweight and super-resistant, and we are the only watch company in the world to use this material. We also use a lot of ceramic and rubber in our designs.
How would you describe the Bell & Ross customer profile? The Bell & Ross wearer is a smart man who loves strength and power and wants to be different. Whether you’re in the sky, sea, or on land, it is essential to never be compromised by the superfluous. We are the choice of deep-sea divers, Formula One drivers, fighter pilots, and every man who has a rugged side.
What would you consider to be the perfect watch? And do you have a favorite Bell & Ross watch? The perfect watch is the one you can cherish and wear every day. My favorite Bell & Ross watch is the one I wore when I was getting married!
How would you describe the performance of the watch industry today? Digitalisation has transformed the entire world, but the watchmaking industry, but its nature, is very traditional and cannot cope with modernisation. As a result, the watch industry is performing poorly as it struggles to cope with these challenges. However, as a relatively young company, Bell & Ross has the advantage of a fresh, modern vision, and we have the
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01 Carlos Rosillo, CEO & CoFounder of Bell & Ross 02 Bell & Ross BR05 Black Steel 03 Bell & Ross BR05 Skeleton 04 Bell & Ross BR05 Gold.
talent to take us where we want to go. We see the future as being full of possibilities.
Where do you find inspiration these days? I find inspiration in everyday life, all around me. The greatest inspiration comes from our interactions with different industries, like aviation, Formula One, motorbiking – it opens our minds to new possibilities for materials and techniques.
What will be the next milestone for Bell & Ross? We are looking forward to developing our presence in the Middle East market. As you know, Middle Eastern customers are very sophisticated. Bell & Ross have points of sale with Ahmed Seddiqi & Sons at Dubai Mall, Mall of the Emirates, Wafi Mall, and Yas Mall, and we are looking forward to expanding further. We are also distributed in Bahrain with Bahrain Jewellery Centre. We are enjoying great momentum in an industry that is not necessarily very fast growing, and we are excited about what is to come. bellross.com
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December 2019
Exquisite Complications Swiss manufacturer Vacheron Constantin has a rich history of producing timeless watches defined by luxury and technical excellence. Alexander Schmiedt, the company’s Brand Director for the Middle East, discusses the first tourbillon model to join the Overseas collection, the company’s One of Not Many philosophy, and the importance of innovation. 01
Tell us more about the first ever Tourbillon model in the Overseas collection Overseas timepieces are designed in a spirit of casual elegance and comfort, making them perfect for daily wear. Presented in a stainless steel case with a striking blue dial and high-end finishes, the watch is fitted with a sophisticated tourbillon complication. The tourbillion is one of the highest watchmaking complications and very few brands can make them so beautifully. Because of the rarity and sensitivity of the complication they are usually used in classic collections featuring precious metals, however, we have used stainless steel in keeping with the distinct character of the Overseas collection. The Tourbillon model comes in a 42.50mm case and has a profile of just 10.39mm, thanks to the incorporation of the ultra-slim tourbillon calibre 2160, which is Vacheron Constantin’s first-ever automatic tourbillon movement.
This model appears to share several characteristics with the 1996 Overseas. How important is it to retain such elements while innovating for a new generation?
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Vacheron Constantin is the oldest watch manufacturer in the world, with an uninterrupted history of 264 years. Being old just for the sake of being old means nothing but having such a rich heritage allows us to constantly reinvent and innovate, which is the secret behind our success. One thing that has never changed is our spirit of producing everything to the highest level and our motto is ‘do better if possible, and it is always possible’. With the new model, we have retained the characteristics that make the Overseas so recognisable while introducing new elements that give it a distinct look and feel. Blending modernity with tradition means walking a fine line and we have achieved that delicate balance with the Tourbillon.
Why do you think the Overseas collection, in particular, is so popular? The collection embodies two cherished Vacheron Constantin themes – travel and openness to the world, which fits perfectly with our clients’ lifestyles. These timepieces blend casual elegance and practicality and can be worn in any setting. Like all Overseas models, the Tourbillon comes with an
interchangeable bracelet system that lets you change the personality of your watch in seconds, adding to its versatility. Presented on a stainless steel bracelet, the watch also comes with an alligator strap and a sporty rubber strap, enabling the wearer to pick an option that suits their mood and setting.
What did you think of this year’s Jewellery Arabia exhibition? Jewellery Arabia is always a great occasion because it gives us the opportunity to meet with existing and potential customers and showcase our latest innovations. The exhibition attracts a select and sophisticated audience who know what they want—something that not everybody else has or can appreciate. This is the exact type of customer that Vacheron Constantin appeals to, one of not many.
What sets Vacheron Constantin apart from the competition? Vacheron has always been a very niche international brand and we look at watch making as an art; we do not mass-produce. We manufacture around 25,000 pieces per years, which allows us to focus on quality rather than quantity. A seal
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01 Overseas Tourbillon
of quality and durability, a standard of excellence and guarantee of provenance, the Hallmark of Geneva is the ultimate emblem of watchmaking craftsmanship. This tradition is ever-present with Vacheron Constantin where each unique piece is individually crafted, decorated, and tested.
02 Alexander Schmiedt
Any upcoming projects you can share with us? There is a lot to look forward to but we cannot announce anything until next year; all I can say is that it is going to be a very exciting year for Vacheron Constantin.
You were sponsors of the first GQ Middle East Men of the Year Awards. Can you tell us a bit about that? Just as Vacheron Constantin produces a limited number of watches each year, ensuring each model adheres to the highest levels of craftsmanship and quality, the GQ Middle East Men of the Year Awards recognise and celebrate individuals who pursue excellence in their fields.The award ceremony took place at the Louvre in Abu Dhabi, a refined and elegant space which embodies this concept, which was another reason we decided to sponsor this year’s event.
Can you tell us about Vacheron Constantin’s new partnership with The Louvre? Vacheron Constantin and The Louvre, two of the world’s best-known preservers of heritage, have joined forces to pursue horological projects inspired by the masterpieces from the museum’s collections. We will also work together on creative projects in the fields of craftsmanship, Haute Horlogerie, art, and culture. Throughout its history, Vacheron Constantin has demonstrated a deep commitment to art, culture, and the preservation of heritage, and our relationship with the Louvre is a natural extension. You will see more concrete cooperation coming out of this partnership in the near future.
Vacheron Constantin recently opened a new boutique in Riyadh, why did you choose this location? We are selective about where we choose to sell our products, as we want to have the right representation in the right place. Riyadh is one of the key cities in the Middle East, and we are delighted to expand Vacheron Constantin’s circle of connoisseurs and watch collectors in Saudi Arabia. The Kingdom is going through a remarkable period of transformation, driven by innovation, which is very much aligned with the spirit of our brand. 02
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December 2019
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Soaring Icons With IWC as its official timekeeper, the “Silver Spitfire – The Longest Flight” expedition set off to make aviation history by making the first roundthe-world flight in a restored Spitfire. Durrah talks to pilots Steve Boultbee Brooks and Matt Jones to find out more about their historic feat.
01 Rosamund Pike at The Longest Flight take-off celebration in Goodwood
Why did you choose the Spitfire for this journey? The Spitfire has a special place in aviation history. We are honoring this quintessential aircraft by taking a restored Spitfire on a journey around the world and the purpose of this expedition is to show the Spitfire to the world. It flew 27 of the 30 countries that we’re going to - it’s a chance for people to see the Spitfire flying once again and we’re very glad to have IWC join us on the ride.
Can you tell us the history behind the particular aircraft that you selected?
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The Silver Spitfire that we’re flying today is one of the most original Spitfires that ever existed. It flew 51 times during the war and then went to a museum. It has been completely rebuilt – it’s been stripped down with 80,000 rivets removed and with IWC we’ve been able to rebuild the plane to its original perfection.
Your route covered all kinds of terrain. What kind of preparations needed to be made for such a long flight? A lot of what makes this expedition challenging is reacting to a constantly changing environment and unpredictable weather conditions. We’ve done lots of preparation for survival in various conditions – whether it be marine or landing in the sea in which case we’d have to jump out and take a parachute and get into a life raft, or to survive in deserts or mountain regions and how we’d survive until people came to find us.
How many people overall worked on the project? The restoration was a Herculean task for everyone involved. The whole team was about 3040 people and it’s been a huge effort which has taken 3 years. It’s a massive undertaking.
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December 2019
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IWC is a partner and timekeeper in this historic journey. How did that collaboration come about?
What are some of the most memorable moments from your journey?
We’ve known Chris (Christoph Grainger-Herr, CEO of IWC Schaffhausen) for many, many years and he told us that he was launching the Spitfire brand. At the same time, we told him that we’re flying around the world in a Spitfire and we’re polishing it. He then showed us a video that he had made of some renders and computer-created pictures of a Silver Spitfire, and we said we’ve got the real thing! So, it was immediately a wonderful partnership. IWC is brilliant at telling stories, and we’re good at doing the adventure so the two together work really well.
For us, the most memorable and something we’ll never forget was flying out through Burma or Myanmar as it is called today, from the city of Yangon to Mandalay. Spitfires did so much there during the war years and everybody remembers it. It’s a symbol of freedom, a symbol of mankind being able to overcome the problems they face. As we fly around this planet and we see what needs to be done to the planet to make it habitable for us, it’s such a solvable problem we have, and I think the Spitfire helps make you realize that together - we can solve anything.
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02 IWC Schaffhausen Middle East India & Africa Director Mehdi Rajan alongside pilots Matt Jones and Steve Brooks 03 A marching band performs at the launch event in Goodwood 04 The aircraft, ready to embark on its unprecedented flight around the world 05 The restored Silver Spitfire with G-IRTY registration
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Tell us a bit about the Boultbee Flight Academy. What can trainees expect when joining? Boultbee Flight Academy is the world’s first Spitfire training school and approved Spitfire flight provider. We take up about 600 people a year – we take people from training or it could be just a simple pleasure flight, but they actually get to fly the Spitfire, get their hands on the control and feel what it’s like. We have an amazing reaction from our people – some of them burst into tears, some of them burst into laughter, but they all get to experience what they’re looking for.
What message would you like to give to our readers? What an amazing symbol the Spitfire is for peace and stability. Let’s remind ourselves how fortunate we are to live in a world that we live in today and use that energy to clean up our planet and live in it the way we should be living. iwc.com
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WATCHES
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December 2019
King of Diamonds Harry Winston’s legacy of timeless elegance continues with new additions to Avenue, Emerald, Histoire de Tourbillon, and several of its iconic collections.
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Harry Winston celebrates the 20th Anniversary of its Avenue collection with a celestial white gold timepiece featuring a poetic moon phase complication and allusions to the architecture of the House’s famous Fifth Avenue Flagship Salon. Painting the colors of the sunrise with motherof-pearl and precious gemstones across the dial and bracelet, this limited-edition timepiece, of just 20 pieces, marks the dawn of a new decade for the iconic Avenue. The Avenue Classic Moon Phase, an elegant timepiece, recreates some of the House’s most cherished motifs. Adorned with scintillating diamonds, the vibrant mother-of-pearl background brings the magic of a moon phase and the inimitable allure of Harry Winston to the wrist. The Avenue collection also revisits the delightful Avenue C™ Mini Moon Phase. The combination of bold geometric shapes and Harry Winston’s hallmark diamonds adds volume and light to this classic timepiece. Presented in 18-karat white gold with a blue mother-of-pearl dial or in 18-karat rose gold with a Havana-brown mother-of-pearl dial, the hypnotic moon phase complication adds the ultimate feminine touch. With the case decked out in baguette-cut diamonds, the timepiece’s three unique dials reveal a fascinating medley of geometric shapes and color-rich gemstones. The highly feminine design also includes a poetic moon phase complication.
For the Emerald collection, the Emerald Automatic 33mm & Emerald Quartz 33mm signals Harry Winston’s incorporation of larger timepieces. The distinctive octagonal case shape and unique dial were inspired by Mr. Winston’s favorite diamond cut: the emerald cut. Contemporary yet classic, this stylish companion is available with an automatic or quartz movement. As for the Midnight collection, the Midnight Retrograde Second Automatic 39mm conjures a starry night sky with twinkling blue aventurine and diamonds. The newest model in the Midnight collection is a modern-day classic. A timeless design that is sophisticated and feminine, the dial features a retrograde seconds complication that evokes the sparkling silhouette of Harry Winston’s historic tiaras. Animated by a Swiss automatic movement, the timepiece is designed for everyday wear and a lifetime of precision. Another addition to the same collection, the Harry Winston Midnight Yozora Automatic offers a new timepiece design, presented in a 42 mm case for men, and a 39 mm case for women. The result of a novel partnership with the Japanese company Nakaya, the dial is a miniature work of art, created entirely by hand using ancient Japanese decorative techniques. An ode to New 01 York’s night sky, the timepieces are fitted with a
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Swiss automatic movement and come in a special presentation box, along with a matching Nakaya fountain pen. For the first time ever, Harry Winston uses four distinct tourbillons in a Histoire de Tourbillon creation. Arranged in perfectly symmetrical order, the four independent, adjacent cores rotate in 36 seconds, their high-precision steps unified by a series of three differentials. Together, they make Histoire de Tourbillon 10 a timepiece dedicated to superlative chronometry, with a unique design. The Ocean collection welcomes the Ocean Sparkling Biretrograde Automatic 42mm, a new model with a scintillating deck made from ruthenium crystals and diamonds. A first in watchmaking, the unique use of ruthenium crystals in the Ocean Sparkling Biretrograde Automatic provides a shiny, textured background for the
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WATCHES
impressive double retrograde display and offcentered hours and minutes. Harry Winston’s High Jewelry Timepiece collection welcomes Precious Emerald by Harry Winston. Recreating motifs that are dear to the House, the Precious Emerald flaunts a stunning platinum bracelet set entirely with marquise-cut diamonds for a dazzling touch of red-carpet glamour. Premier Hypnotic Opal Mosaic Automatic 36mm joins The Premier Collection. A spellbinding timepiece that celebrates Mr. Winston’s passion for motion and color in fine jewelry, it’s crafted in luxurious 18-karat white gold, a spellbinding profusion of baguette-cut diamonds and vivid blue sapphires swirls against an iridescent opal background, diffusing color and kinetic energy in all directions. The second addition, The Premier Lotus Automatic 31mm features a dynamic floral sculpture rising from the pearly waters of the dial. Recalling different chapters in the scintillating history of the House of Harry Winston, the majestic petals of
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the lotus flower dazzle with their color, light and volume. Presented in either 18-karat white or rose gold, the eternal bloom of the flower is matched by a sophisticated mechanical movement for a lifetime of precision. Also in the same collection, the Premier Lotus Automatic 31mm Premier Precious Micromosaic Automatic 36mm is another testament that precious gemstones and precious art forms are synonymous with Harry Winston, like the spectacular mosaic glass setting on the dials of these four gold Premier Precious Micromosaic models. An inimitable luxury made by hand in Ravenna, Italy, the vibrant patterns on the dial are highlighted with quintessential Harry Winston diamonds in an artistic marriage that is destined to shine for a lifetime. Ravenna, the Italian city renowned worldwide for its mosaics, is the latest destination on Harry Winston’s journey to source unique artistic crafts for its timepieces. The millenary art of glass micromosaic is behind the captivating dials of the
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01 Premier Hypnotic Opal Mosaic Automatic 36mm 02 Histoire de Tourbillon 03 Winston Kaleidoscope High Jewelry Watch 04 Avenue C Mini Moon Phase 05 Emerald Quartz 33mm 06 Nakaya fountain pen 07 Premier Precious Micromosaic Automatic 36mm 08 Midnight Yozora Automatic 39mm
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Premier Precious Peacock Automatic 36mm, a much-loved bird in Harry Winston’s history of high jewelry design. Meticulous and poetic, angular and smooth, powerful and comfortable, Project Z13 is steeped in paradoxes. This is a timepiece with an architectural structure that is expertly orchestrated to simultaneously project an impression of asymmetry and order. Featuring a moon phase display and a retrograde date, a first for the collection, its supporting structures rely on the aesthetic language of mechanics. Still made of Zalium™ with a highmech spirit, Project Z13 continues on its radical path, confirming that Harry Winston’s Zalium™ timepieces can continue to surprise and transform. A miniature masterpiece of extraordinary beauty and charm, the Ultimate Kaleidoscope recreates the magic of a childhood toy in Harry Winston’s high jewelry language. A pendant, a timepiece and a functioning kaleidoscope, this playful yet lavish accessory redefines the very essence of luxury. The Winston Kaleidoscope High Jewelry Watch by Harry Winston is inspired by the magical spectacle of a kaleidoscope. Precious gemstones, clustered around the case, recreate an explosion of color and volume. A dazzling red-carpet companion or bright evening accessory, the Winston Kaleidoscope showcases the creativity and gemsetting expertise that characterize the House of Harry Winston. harrywinston.com
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December 2019
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Ethical Pioneers Chopard is the Official Timekeeper of the first Mille Miglia Green rally. 02
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Chopard is extending its historic partnership with the Mille Miglia to supporting the first edition of the Mille Miglia Green. This new race from Brescia to Lainate via Milan involves various all-electric vehicles, along with hybrid models and authentic vintage cars equipped with an electric engine block. It reflects Chopard’s ethical commitment and shows that it is possible to unite its passion for automobiles and its Journey to Sustainable Luxury within the same dynamic. Actively associated since 1988 with what Enzo Ferrari referred to as corsa piÚ bella del mondo, Chopard has now chosen to accompany the new spin-off races of the famous Italian Mille Miglia. Among these initiatives, the Mille Miglia Green held from September 27th to 29th represented the first-ever introduction of a responsible and environmentally friendly endurance race. A pioneer in the development of ethical watchmaking and
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jewellery, the Maison has chosen to fully support this objective as partner and official timekeeper of the event. It was therefore present on the starting line in Brescia on September 27th for the first leg of this race, which featured 35 vehicles with electric or hybrid engines. Over the three days of the event, drivers covered three different legs, with the first day’s racing within the historic city centre of Brescia, a second route running from Brescia to Milan, and a third and final leg between Milan and the Lainate driving centre. To encourage participants halfway through, Chopard had set up its Chopard Espresso Lounge on Gae Aulenti Square in Milan, offering gentlemen drivers engaged in the competition – as well as enthusiasts who had come to cheer them on – a place conducive to conviviality and sharing. At the finish on the Lainate circuit, GianMaria Aghem et Rossella Conti, the winners of the
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competition, who had set off two days earlier at the wheel of a Tesla Model 3 Performance, were each presented with a Chopard Mille Miglia Racing Colours timepiece – naturally featuring a green dial! Rosso Corsa, Speed Silver, British Racing Green, Vintage Blue and Speed Yellow: such were the colours attributed to the different motor racing nations. To celebrate the 30th anniversary of the partnership between Chopard and the Mille Miglia, since 2018 the Maison has been offering a limited collection of five Mille Miglia Racing Colours watches: a new edition of a historical collection of Chopard watches with unique dials designed for collectors. They pay tribute to the golden age of motor sport and to an exclusive race. Two British Racing Green versions constituted the winners’ trophy of this first Mille Miglia Green edition.
03 01 Chopard Mille Miglia watches on display 02 GianMaria Aghem and Rossella Conti 03 Drivers covered three different legs over the 3-day event
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December 2019
PEARL OF BAHRAIN
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01 The Mattar family 02 Mattar Jewellers’ installation at La Biennale Paris art show
With a rich history spanning more than 160 years, Mattar Jewellers is a proudly Bahraini institution renowned for its stunning pearl creations. Durrah catches up with Reem Mattar to explore the inspiration behind the distinct designs of the familyrun business, now in its sixth generation, and the responsibility of carrying a legacy. 02
Mattar Jewellers represented the Kingdom at this year’s La Biennale Paris art show. Can you tell us more about the event? Bahrain was the guest of honour and the first country in the Middle East to participate in this prestigious international event. It was a privilege to represent the Kingdom, highlighting our rich heritage and artisanal craftsmanship to art collectors and enthusiasts from around the world. Mattar Jewellers – The House of Natural Pearls was the exclusive exhibitor in the ‘Pearl Room’ as part of the Bahrain Pavilion, alongside the ‘Art Room’ and the ‘Bahrain Room’. We displayed exclusive pieces from our private collection, as well as important pearl findings from the past two years, that showcase the Kingdom’s pearl trading heritage. We also exhibited two unique pearl necklaces, the Rose and the Peacock. The rarity of the Rose comes from the fact that the pearls are similar in size, which allows the necklace to be worn as a pendant. The Peacock is a seven row, Grade -1 necklace celebrating the 12 primary colours of Bahraini natural pearls.
You and your sisters were the first women to join the company, what sort of changes have come from the addition of a female dynamic? We have brought a fresh perspective and additional creativity that has enabled the business to better relate to its customers. We understand both male and female tastes, and because we are actively involved in all areas of the business, we can provide customers with more information about our creations, particularly the ones we have designed ourselves.
Do you use local divers to source your pearls, if so, why? We proudly support other Bahrainis and their businesses by buying our pearls from local divers
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daily. The number of Bahrainis applying for diving licences from the Ministry of Industry and Commerce is steadily growing, which reflects the continued popularity of this historical profession. Pearls are classified according to size, shape, colour, and lustre. Bahrain’s pearls are internationally renowned for their beauty and purity, which are due to the oyster beds being located near underwater sweet water springs. Using these exceptional pearls, we ensure that our products are truly distinct.
natural pearl concepts and marketing them globally, intending to restore these jewels to their former glory. The company is driven by the belief that the natural pearl is the ultimate jewel. Apart from the diamonds and the other stones that we source from elsewhere, everything is Bahraini. We source our pearls from local divers, design each piece ourselves, and manufacture everything here in the Kingdom.
What is your star piece for this year’s jewellery Arabia exhibition?
Most jewellery designers come up with a concept first and then start sourcing the materials they need to bring the design to life. With pearls, you need to work backwards. No two pearls are exactly the same size, shape, colour, and lustre, so designs are often formed around the materials available rather than vice versa. Sometimes it can take years to finish a particular piece because you need to patiently wait for the right pearls to be found. The Peacock, one of the necklaces we displayed at La Biennale Paris, took xx years to create. Patience is one of the most important elements when it comes to designing a new piece.
Jewellery Arabia is the biggest exhibition of its kind in the region and we always create something special for the event. This year’s star piece is a cane made of natural wood that is topped with around 130 grams of 18-carat gold, red enamel, and five exquisite pearls. Hidden inside the cane is a watch with Arabic numerals, making it even more unique and distinctive.
How important is the family relationship to the success of the business? Mattar Jewellers has been a family business for more than 160 years, with the 6th generation now at the helm. Building the family legacy is a huge responsibility, which we all take incredibly seriously. We talk about work all the time, even at home. A lot of people think that working with family is more difficult but I disagree. We always support each other and it makes running the business much more manageable.
What makes Mattar jewellery so unique? Mattar Jewellers is a Bahraini family business with roots that go back several generations. The company specializes in crafting fine jewellery and products made from natural pearls, as well as developing
Tell us about your creative process and what inspires your designs.
Mattar Jewellers has been in business for more than 160 years and achieved a great deal, what does the future hold? Our goal is to continue creating beautiful pieces that appeal to new generations of customers. It is still too early to tell if the 7th generation wants to join the family business because they’re so young at the moment. We hope they will want to continue this legacy and build on our success.
Are there any upcoming collections that fans can look forward to? We try to launch a new line every year. mattarjewelers.com
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MASTERPIECE
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December 2019
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Skyline Architect
Growing up in a family that had embraced the artistic spirit, Kishor Shinde was destined to be an artist. Over the past few decades, his metal creations of evolving cityscapes had captured the eyes of many people around the world, growing his reputation as a formidable artist and culminating in his work being displayed in the National Gallery of Modern Art, New Delhi, The Lalit Kala Akademi, New Delhi, and in several private collections.
When did you realize that art was your calling in life? My uncle is an artist, so I worked with him like an apprentice in my childhood. I washed brushes, primed canvases and did such work for him. This was a learning experience for me. Those years working with my uncle broadened my horizon towards art and inspired me to follow this path. On his suggestion, I applied for and got enrolled in a Fine Arts college.
Your work focuses on cityscapes. What made you choose that as your theme?
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We belonged to a lower middle-class family and lived in a chawl in Vadodara, India, so the only predominant visual in my life was the streets. I would spend long hours into the night painting,
experimenting with ideas once my day at college was over. Succeeding at times but more often not, I toiled hard, determined to find an oeuvre that was my own. Meanwhile, my bus commute those days took me past the bustling streets and I spent most of my time taking in the sights, roads being constructed, multistoried offices being built with massive scaffolding for the construction workers, flyovers, express ways still in their skeletal shapes. Even around my workplace, I saw that same loop replayed – of construction and then deconstruction, as exhibition sites were built only to be razed to nothingness and then rebuilt week after week. The observation of mundane life in the streets from dawn till dusk greatly influenced me. The play of sunlight and shadows, the basic and skewed forms, perspectives, the way space got divided visually, with many horizontal and vertical lines
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MASTERPIECE
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“My work is a joyful celebration of the changing cityscape around us.� intersecting each other, all incited a lot of interest in me. The intriguing forms and elements imbedded in the visuals I was exposed to, in my early days, naturally reflected in my work. So, the admittance of cityscape references in my work was not a deliberate choice, as much as a happening.
What attracted you to working with metal? Metal for me is a very earthy and organic medium. Being a solid yet a malleable medium to work with, metal gives me the leverage to transform my drawings into physical forms, through bending and laser cutting. Black, silhouetted forms recalling elements of mechanical drawing serve to make a bold statement. No other medium gives me that impact.
How would you describe your artistic approach? My work is a joyful celebration of the changing cityscape around us. As the winds of globalization sweep through it, cities find itself in a state of flux. To meet the challenges of this new era, the metropolises is undergoing a process of rapid transformation. My attempt has been to capture this shifting skyline as new buildings spring up, cheek by jowl, with older architectural forms. The process of rejuvenation and revival evidenced in the construction activities all around us has been encapsulated in my work. I have also strived to inject a childlike innocence and playfulness in my work. Solid blocks of energetic color are juxtaposed with white spaces paying a tribute to the throbbing energy of cities, its creativity and the indomitable spirit of its citizens.
01 Last supper, 32x48 in. powder coated metal work, 2018 02 Kishor Shinde 03 Cityscape 2, 16x27 in., 2012
04 Acrylic on Canvas, 2012 05 Powder coated metal work, 41x70.5 in. 06 Powder coated metal work, 1.5x7.5 ft.
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What is your favorite from all your creations? I begin my work with a compelling desire to play around, with a sense of exploration involved. And as the work progresses, it guides my strokes and finds its own way. Every work of mine is a surprise for me and teaches me something, so I don’t think I have a favorite as such.
Nasreen Mohammedi who always encouraged us to express ourselves to the best of our creative abilities inspires me. There are many other artists who have had a profound impact on my work. Lately, work of Paul Higgs and Manuel Millares have been very inspiring, and a treat to look at.
What has been your proudest moment as an artist?
What advice would you give to young artists?
When I received the National Award, or when I got the chance to participate in the China Biennale. Whenever I get any kind of recognition for my work, I feel proud.
I would advise young artists to remain true to their work. Believing in your work and working hard with a sense of dedication and diligence goes a long way. Also, there is a fine line between being influenced and imitating. I think it is important to be aware of that at every step and to always strive to find your own language.
Which artists had the most profound impact on your style?
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SPECIAL FEATURE
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December 2019
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Modern Renaissance 02
Co-Founder, Designer and Creative Director, Christopher R. King reveals the inspiration and vision behind his ultra-luxury brand, CCCXXXIII (Three Hundred Thirty-Three).
01 Christopher R. King 02 The Briefcase
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What made you choose CCCXXXIII as the name for your brand? And what do you hope to achieve through it? The Renaissance era has always been an inspiration for me. When I envision the Renaissance Era, I imagine Italy, especially the bustling streets of Rome. I envision the tall buildings with the grand Roman numerals sprawled across them. Roman numerals were a natural fit provided all the inspiration that I draw from this period, and considering all my products are handmade in Italy. Three has always been a lucky number of mine, and the power of three has been significant throughout the history of humanity. Naturally, the brand name had to be three hundred thirty-three. With this brand, I hope to achieve a new standard of luxury for both men and women. I want to create a culture that values quality and timeless products in a society that’s stuck 03 in an endless cycle of trends and fast fashion. I want to create products of the very best quality, using the world’s finest materials, and precise craftsmanship, to be enjoyed for many generations.
What are the main products under the CCCXXXIII brand umbrella? The products currently offered under the CCCXXXIII umbrella are luxury accessories for both men and women. The accessories range from toiletry bags, backpacks, to briefcases. Some products, such as the exotic Python laptop sleeve, are occasionally launched as limited editions. We will continue to expand our product offerings over the years.
What kind of material do you prefer to use? I’m very particular about the materials we use at CCCXXXIII. Specifically, I like to use highquality leather from Italy. For some of our limitededition products, we’ve used Porosus Crocodile skins, exotic Python, and South African ostrich. I like to see, feel, and touch he materials myself to ensure the quality. For the hardware, everything is finished off with real gold. The goal is for these products to be timeless and classic pieces that can last a lifetime.
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SPECIAL FEATURE
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December 2019
03, 05 From the Women’s Collections 04 Backpack Lugano Suede 06 From the Men’s Collections
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Tell us a bit about your bespoke Aston Martin DBS Superleggera. What makes it unique? How did that project come about? There are many things about the bespoke Aston Martin DBS Superleggera that make it unique. On a personal note, the car has a one-of-a-kind paint job called, “Kingsway White” which is named after a slogan of mine, “Kingsway”, and also happens to be the road you turn on before reaching he headquarters in Gaydon. Another unique feature is the amount of mahogany wood that was used in the design, like that of a vintage cigar boat, that brought a classic touch to the DBS. I did this project because Aston Martin has always represented that classic gentleman or ladies car, with the speed and power of a sports car. It brings all the facets of luxury together in an elegant symphony of beauty when you arrive in style and stand out from the crowd. I wanted to create a limited edition with Aston Martin since we have a shared passion for luxury and the experience that we want to create for our clients. We decided to take it next level by delivering something magical and unique for those select enthusiasts.
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What unique design elements went into the Aston Martin DBS Superleggera? The design elements that were most unique to the DBS were the mahogany wood used throughout, as well as the diamond quilted stitching on the interior. We used real gold inlays inside the car and real gold jewelry badges for the exterior. The grill design is also very unique; it’s a two-piece handpainted grill that gives a sense of 3-D imagery in the front of the car.
What has been your proudest project yet? To be honest, I don’t think I’ve finished my proudest project yet. There are so many iconic brands and companies that I still want to collaborate with, that I don’t feel I’ve even scratched the surface.
How do you define luxury? Someone rather influential in the luxury space once told me in a meeting that, “Luxury is something that can be repaired.” That statement stood out to me. I’ve always viewed “luxury” as
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“I want to create products
of the very best quality, using the world’s finest materials, and precise craftsmanship, to be enjoyed for many generations.” 06
something that requires time and a process that cannot be manipulated. For example, it takes many weeks for our products to be handmade by Italian artisans in Italy and the only way to rush that process would be to use a machine, but that would be sacrificing the quality and attention to detail that’s required for luxury. The same goes for one of my favorite Cognac’s, Louis XIII; each bottle is aged for over 100 years. You can’t rush the process or else it would compromise the quality of the Cognac. These time-consuming processes that can’t and shouldn’t be manipulated are, to me, what define true luxury.
What are the pleasures of a modernday renaissance man? The pleasures of a modern-day Renaissance man are about taking pride and enjoyment in certain activities. For example, a Renaissance man (or woman) is someone who’s well rounded and can appreciate art as well as classical music and opera. They appreciate the finer things and value the art of personal presentation with the uncanny knowledge of how to never miss an opportunity, of how to walk into a room and own it. A Renaissance man (or woman) acknowledges the difference between fashion and style and enjoys investing in timeless pieces for their wardrobe and lifestyle.
Are there any other products or collaborations in the works? I recently accepted another opportunity to design another collaboration with Aston Martin. More details to be announced soon! cccxxxiii.com
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UP CLOSE AND PERSONAL
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December 2019
Versatile Prestige Cadillac International Operations and Cadillac Middle East Managing Director, Christian Soemmer reveals what’s in store for the iconic automotive brand.
Can you tell us about Cadillac’s participation in Dubai International Motor Show? What are the main models showcased by the brand?
What are the unique features of the CT5? And how do you see it performing in the Middle East market?
the new showrooms and new service vendors. So, we are really delivering those Cadillac moments for our customers.
Dubai International Motor Show is a great platform for us to get even closer to our existing customers while showcasing our cars to new ones. The main cars that we revealed were the new XT6, which is the first ever 3-row crossover SUV. It’s a car that combines the best of both worlds as it’s very practical and spacious with many convenience features, but at the same time it has a very smooth ride and looks stylish. It’s the kind of car you can be sure your family will be safe in but can also be sure that you will always drive in style. This marks an exciting time for us as this is the first time that we are present in the biggest SUV segment in this region. We also have the first ever CT5 sports sedan at the show, which also gives us an opportunity to show what luxury sedans are all about. It’s a refined ride with a new fastback design. This is something we look forward to introducing to our customers in this region.
We have very high hopes for the CT5 here. We believe it will do tremendously well. It’s a real beauty, designed to be a piece of art that’s combined with the latest Cadillac technology features. It also has all the safety systems on board. It’s a car that we feel will really speak to the youth in the Middle East as it’s a very unique concept.
What are some of the latest trends in the automotive industry?
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How would you describe Cadillac’s overall performance in this region? Cadillac is having a strong momentum in this region right now. It’s going from strength to strength. Together with our partners, we worked very hard to restore the Cadillac brand over the last couple of years. It all started with the XT4. Our global best-seller, the XT5 has also been revamped with new design and technology. On top of that, we launched the new, first ever XT6 here. This is in addition to
This industry is going through some major changes and transformations at the moment. Cadillac, through General Motors, will be at the forefront of those changes. We have a vision that also mirrors the vision of our parent company which is to achieve zero crashes, zero emission, and zero congestion. Cadillac will lead those changes because we will be the first to launch all the new technologies from GM. One of those changes is the new battery electric platform called BEV3, which will be coming in the near future. Earlier this year, we also released an image of the first ever Cadillac SUV. The beauty of this platform is that it’s very flexible. It allows us to respond to customer needs very fast as there’s very short lead time from design and development point of view, so you can expect to see a couple of different variances in terms of
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body style. Another trend gaining a lot of traction is connected cars. For the first time in this region, we are launching our new safety and security system called OnStar, which will be launched in the UAE. There are a lot of exciting changes happening and Cadillac is at the forefront.
What are the biggest challenges facing automakers these days? I wouldn’t call them challenges. I prefer to see them as opportunities. There are a lot of opportunities out there. The transformations taking place at the moment presents many opportunities with it. Through the setup that Cadillac has, we are confident that we will be the first to launch new technologies, which will help us leverage those opportunities and deliver our excellent caliber of customer service.
What do you believe will be the future of this industry? The future is definitely bright! There are bound to be changes, but if you look at it, you’ll hardly find any other industry that has as many opportunities as the automotive industry. Whether it be battery electric vehicles, new propulsion systems, new connections, or autonomous cars, there are a lot of opportunities to explore.
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01 Cadillac International Operations and Cadillac ME Managing Director, Christian Soemmer 02 The all-new CT5
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SPECIAL FEATURE
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December 2019
Composing Beauty 01
Durrah delves into the scintillating world of Tiziana Terenzi’s evocative essences with Paolo Terenzi, ‘The President and the Nose’ of the unconventional family brand. 01 Tiziana Terenzi Dubhe 02 Tiziana Terenzi 03 Tiziana Terenzi Kaff 04 Paolo Terenzi
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What sets Tiziana Terenzi’s creations apart from the traditional perfumes? Ours are not just perfumes, but an actual journey through personal emotions and memories. Because of their unique quality, these creations have started out as a series of notes jotted down in old notepads narrating a journey which has yet to end. As well, the formulation of the molecules does not follow the rules of traditional haute perfumery; instead it opens itself up to the freedom of exploring all possible alchemies, through “politically incorrect” actions. It manages to represent the true essence of life, including its imperfections, tensions, dissonances, all of which make the moment simply beautiful. This is what we bring to the world: the purest journey through our true self. If we really had to look for an element to impress the readers, we would like to emphasize that all our creations are made with natural elements, carefully extracted from crops and plantations that we personally supervise. The difference of our artistic and crafted work, able to transform every detail into
a single reverberation of beauty, passes right from our daily work inspired by the rhythms of nature. Another strength that truly is an amazement factor, for us first of all, is ourselves and who we are: brother and sister who have always shared everything. An atypical and contrasting symbiosis, but at the same time complementary and unique. All the processes in the company are shared and worked four-way between Tiziana and I, it is difficult to find out where the work of one or the other begins: the entire company performance, the creative process, the production and the organization are the result of this love and sharing between brother and sister, guided by the grateful love for our Father Evelino.
Where do you source the materials from? Do you have a favorite location? My favorite ingredient is nature and I put it in all my creations! There is no distance I wouldn’t overcome if it was worth discovering a new precious ingredient to enrich our creations further. The world
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itself becomes an invaluable source of unique raw materials. I am used to travel with the scope of finding the best farmers in the world and personally verify all the extraction details: I went to Laos for the best Oud up to the Indian Ocean for Amber Grey. These experiences drove me to write notes about what I was experiencing, as if my hands, eyes and arms did not have enough room to store all the wonderful events. As a child I always linked the olfactory sense to my memories, trying not to use words but smells to tell the story of an emotion, a place or a meeting. Now that I have travelled all over the world, my library contains thousands of olfactory creations and memories, unforgettable moments of an extraordinary life and a journey that is not yet finished.
Where does your love of fragrances come from?
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It is a family passion: our grandfather Guglielmo was a perfumer and collector! During his long life he collected several precious oils and perfumes all around the world and nowadays these unique
compositions are in my library; featuring also one of the biggest Oud collections, some of those macerated with original natural Musk for more than 45 years. Something so unique that has no price! Grandfather Guglielmo had always loved perfumes, especially colognes; he created his own personal collection of them, using natural essences from his beloved land. His love of music and syncopated rhythm always seeped into his creations like an author’s signature. He is the one who taught me all about perfumes. He was my Teacher. Together with him as a child, I walked through the woods, surrounded by the wonderful and un-spoilt nature of our beautiful country. Being a Perfumer, he taught me to recognize all the smells of nature and to compose my own olfactory tunes. He would pick flowers and, with my eyes closed, I would play at guessing the species. He would break a sprig of wood and I had to recognize the plant. I always bring the scent of nature with me as my universal sentimental dictionary with which I write my olfactory poems. He’ll always be my mentor and he is still the unsurpassed Master for me!
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SPECIAL FEATURE
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December 2019
Which of your compositions is your favorite? My favorite scent is that which I have yet to make and has yet to be created, because this wonderful journey through emotions and experiences around the fire of life will never end. “Listening” to a perfume takes time and patience. Scents, like a symphonic melody, evolve over time and a quick sniff is not enough to fully understand its explosion of perfumes. This is why I always suggest taking your time when choosing a fragrance for yourself or a loved one. The scent accompanies you throughout the day and tells us about you, exposing your mood and character to those around you. It is an intimate part of our Being and it should be handled with care. Therefore, I always recommend that dwelling a while on the heart notes of the essence, because they are the true song of the perfume. They represent what others perceive of us. In fact, the light and pandering top notes flee quickly in less than a few minutes, giving way almost immediately to the persistence and strength of the heart supported by the base of the perfume. I consider all our creations as children and I do love them all equally; it is tough having to choose which one is the favorite among your children.
How much work usually goes into a Tiziana Terenzi fragrance? And what’s the longest time you spent creating one? Bringing to life a fragrance might take 1 hour when driven by creative delirium, but at times an entire life isn’t enough to satisfy the artist’s desire. There is no predefined scheme or process, inspiration is what guides our hands for the molecules’ selection, while our heart drives our senses. Our fragrances are born from emotions experienced during our travels; emotions gathered and lived in front of the fire, the evocative power of the eternal moment etched in our hearts! A beautiful moment of real life, and since life is wonderful but not perfect, even our creations must be rich in precious tensions and dissonances to give us unique emotions. Memory is our ultimate inspiration: the bond with our family and all the loving experiences shared with them. The love for our beloved father Evelino is the key element that instills outmost passion in every detail that we select to make our creations everlasting: from the power of each drop of perfume, to the rich details of our design. Love is the frame that nestles all the emotions we pour into our creations; that we in fact like to define as “liquid emotions”: love for our homeland, our tradition, our culture, towards each other as brother and sister and for the gift of being able to create such precious scents for people from all over the world.
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What reaction would you like your fragrances to evoke? The scent is the driver of the evocative emotion that springs from life as a real experience and is crystallized in our innovative and “beautifully imperfect” fragrances as they become continuous like life. Every moment of our Life contains good and bad, joy and sorrow, light and darkness; it is the search for this imperfect tension within perfection that is contained in these drops of essence. For all these unique traits, our fragrances can evoke our deepest emotion and embody the mirror of our soul; they become be the diary of our life journey without setting any boundaries for the content we wish to write.
Outside of perfumery, what are your hobbies or interests? When I leave work, I return home to spend quality time with my beloved family and unwind in sharing simple but precious moments with them. I often play my guitar as I used to do when I was a jazz guitarist, or rather listen to some of my favorite sounds which have also been source of inspiration in so many moments of my life. And since we are talking about means to unwind; there is one passion that blows in my soul like no other: sailing. Whether alone in winter time or with my beloved family during warm summer days, sailing on my boat is my ultimate resolution.
I am the captain of a beautiful boat and I sailed across all the seas of the world: from the Indian Ocean to the Pacific, from the Atlantic to the Caribbean while my favorite of all has always been the Mediterranean, rich in history and ancient beauty. What truly makes me happy and gives me energy is setting sail from the harbor of my small town overlooking the Adriatic Sea, aiming at far distances while sailing for nights and days miles and miles away crossing the Mediterranean. Each journey is a source of inspiration to reconnect with nature and healthy life rhythms; because the sea is the greatest master who knows how to teach the true value of being in this world
Is there an upcoming fragrance or collection you can share with us? We have very ambitious projects for 2020 that reflect the exploring instinct of our brand, defined by the driving desire to explore new boundaries of artistic perfumery. Our new challenge that has just been launched in Cannes on our yacht, gathers the future’s essence that has never been introduced in the industry until today. A collection that will become a milestone in perfume’s history, for having overcome physical limits considered up to today impossible to overcome. A collection dedicated to one of my strongest passions: the sea. tizianaterenzi.com
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Paradise found in the heart of Manama
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To share the fun with us, please call: +973 77 900 700 Reef Clubhouse Bahrain
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ReefClubhouseBah
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FRAGRANCES - MEN
Fresh and bold
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December 2019
An eclectic mix of stimulating fragrances and intoxicating aromas guaranteed to make a statement. For men.
Aqua di Parma Signature Leather Eau de Toilette Intensely charismatic, Acqua di Parma’s Signature Leather is an ode to the traditions of leather-making. The unforgettable deep and aromatic composition combines the elegant and original leather accord with notes of Brazilian orange, Sicilian lime, rose, and petitgrain. Available in 100ml and 180 ml sizes. acquadiparma.com
Trussardi Uomo Eau de Parfum: The Levriero Collection In 2011 the historic Italian brand Trussardi celebrated 100 years of successes with an olfactory creation inspired by the iconic fragrance of the 1980s: Trussardi Uomo. This centennial fragrance is now the starting point for the Levriero Collection, a limited edition for gifting and collecting. The fragrance belongs to a typically masculine olfactory family: fougère-woody. The fresh Italian elegance of lemon, bergamot, galbanum, and nutmeg emerge in the headnotes. The heart is characterized by the refined virility of a blend of clary sage, geranium, and violet leaves. The apotheosis of strength and sensuality comes with the base notes: patchouli, moss accord, leather accord, akigalawood (a precious fractional note of patchouli) and sandalwood. The impenetrable glass bottle is lavishly trimmed with gold-tone metal and is a small work of art to collect and keep. trussard.com
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Tiffany & Co. Tiffany & Love Eau de Toilette for Him A tribute to modern love, Tiffany & Love fragrances share a common hero, blue sequoia. This vibrant woody note unifies the two scents, honoring the many ways love brings two people together. Crafted by renowned perfumers Sophie Labbé and Nicolas Beaulieu, Tiffany & Love Eau de Toilette for Him is a citrusy, aromatic fragrance with a wood-infused base. An enticing composition, the scent begins with oils of ginger, mandarin, and cardamom. At the heart is a juniper-cypress blend, produced by a co-distillation process created exclusively for Tiffany, which brings a sense of modernity to the fragrance. Sandalwood, vetiver and the signature blue sequoia note complete the base of this masterful composition. Personalize this bottle with custom engraving to make it the perfect gift. tiffany.com
Penhaligons Terrible Teddy Terrible Teddy is a fragrance for a smooth operator, who is also dangerous and piquante. This perfume is round, warm, and reassuring with a beguiling bite, contradictions that only enhance the addiction. The dark mystery of incense is made luminous with a burst of fresh pink peppercorns. The deeply sensual leather and the softness of rare cedar and ambrosian is invigorated with the caustic vibrancy of vetiver and patchouli. This disconcerting balance of “stay” and “go”, this unusual marriage of hot and cold, is wrapped in a final layer of musk. penhaligons.com
Hugo Boss BOSS BOTTLED Oud Saffron BOSS BOTTLED Oud Saffron is a rich, warm fragrance that offers a spicy take on BOSS BOTTLED Oud. With a spicy-floral accord of saffron and rose, it unfolds harmoniously on the man of today’s skin, a gentle reminder to stand his ground with integrity. Combined with silky suede notes and opulent oud, the dry down offers a comforting yet firm embrace. The bottle’s deep red shines alongside the elegant gold metal topper. hugoboss.com
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FRAGRANCES - WOMEN
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Alluring Fragrances An eclectic mix of stimulating fragrances and intoxicating aromas guaranteed to make a statement. For women.
December 2019
Chanel Gabrielle Chanel Essence Inspired by Gabrielle, the icon who became Coco Chanel, this is the fragrance of a radiant woman. Composed by CHANEL In-House Perfumer Creator Olivier Polge, GABRIELLE CHANEL ESSENCE is the fragrance of an imaginary flower, faceted with Jasmine, Ylang-Ylang, Orange Blossom and the most captivating flower of all, Grasse Tuberose. It cuts to the essentials, to the heart of the fragrance, to the heart of the flowers, for a deep and voluptuous scent. chanel.com
Cartier La Panthère A perfume born from a fresh flower, this was the vision of Cartier perfumer Mathilde Laurent, who chose a gardenia, a flower with a pure, crystalline, and carnal scent, a fragrance pushed to its animal limit. La Panthère Eau de Parfum is a marriage of pure, mesmerising gardenia, and sensual notes of musk and chypre. To celebrate its fifth birthday, Cartier is launching a limited edition contained in two new brightly decorated bottles that highlight the multiple facets of this innovative feline, floral fragrance. Animality emerges from the gardenia, revealed by a musky structure that is both animal and molecular, physical and abstract. Feline and floral are brought together to embody the Panthère, Cartier’s allegory of femininity. It embodies the contemporary creative vision of Cartier’s olfactory style: to escape the dull consensus and spark emotions. cartier.com
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Elie Saab. Girl of Now Forever Girl of Now Forever picks up the adventure where Girl of Now left off in 2017. Brought to you by master perfumers Sophie Labbé and Dominique Ropion, this new fragrance is infused with good vibes that invoke the image of a sun-drenched holiday on the island of Ibiza. It reveals its enchanting radiance with a trail of Ormond flower, a flower created exclusively for Elie Saab, blending Almond and Orange Blossoms. As the notes infuse, a new story begins: fresher, more colorful, and more fun! Its bold optimism merges with a refreshing wave of Lebanese lemonade - an allusion to the designer - in which Lemon Zest and Raspberry notes intertwine. Rosa Cassia, the new and unique Rose-Blackcurrant co-distillate, unprecedented in perfumery, expresses its elegant, desirable, and joyful femininity. Its unforgettable Patchouli trail nestles within sensual Cashmeran and Vanilla. With solid glass at the base, the elegant bottle is adorned with a new Coral flower design at its neck that pairs beautifully with the colour of the perfume. More pop, more fun, but just as couture! eliesaab.com
Penhaligons Heartless Helen Heartless Helen is a confidently alluring mystique of a potion that some would call a trap. Enchanting and spellbinding, the opulent flourish of tuberose finds new dimensions with pink peppercorn to open the conversation and mandarin that adds delicious juicy vitality into the equation. Notes of jasmine make the fragrance more wide-eyed, sweet, and captivating. Once within its magic, you will get caught in a sillage of beguiling luxuriance offered by creamy woods and cashmeran. penhaligons.com
Tiffany & Co. Tiffany & Love Eau de Parfum for Her A tribute to modern love, Tiffany & Love fragrances share a common hero, blue sequoia. Created by renowned perfumers Honorine Blanc and Marie Salamagne, Tiffany & Love Eau de Parfum for Her is a floral, woody scent. The fragrance opens with a burst of bright and sparkling top notes, beginning with blue basil – a botanical ingredient developed exclusively for Tiffany – paired with grapefruit for an aromatic crispness. The sweet floral bouquet of neroli is at the heart of the fragrance, with a woody blend of blue sequoia. Vetiver and cedarwood are at the base, creating a faceted and feminine scent. Personalise this bottle with custom engraving to make it the perfect gift. tiffany.com
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SPECIAL EVENT
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December 2019
Where Beauty Blossoms 01 The launch of Saks Fifth Avenue Bahrain’s renewed beauty department
Saks Fifth Avenue reveals its renewed beauty department.
02 Aramani at Saks Fifth Avenue 03 Tom Ford at Saks Fifth Avenue
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Under a cascading garden of flowers, Saks Fifth Avenue Bahrain revealed its bigger and better beauty department. Beauty experts and skincare specialists were readily available to assist and guide guests on the latest beauty techniques, trends, tips and products suitable for them. Furthermore, fragrance experts guided guests through the vast array of perfumes to select the perfect scent for them. New and Exclusive concepts from the likes of Chanel, Lancôme, YSL, Givenchy and Dolce & Gabbana to name a few have transformed the beauty department making it more edgy and modern. Exclusive brands and product lines such as Kilian, Penhaligon’s and Chanel private collection can now be found at Saks Fifth Avenue Bahrain. In addition, a permanent customization service from Burberry and a private makeup and facial room have been added to make the beauty experience at Saks as personalized as it can get. “We are very happy to see the Saks Bahrain Beauty Department come together after months of hard work and negotiations with some of world’s
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leading brands. This confirms the commitment we have to our guests making sure we always bring them the latest trends and global brands. We will keep on improving and updating the experience at Saks through tailored services and exceptional products,� said Mark Asfahani- Saks Fifth Avenue Middle East Senior Division Manager. The day was animated with on-counter consultations, private facial and makeup sessions, complimentary perfume bottle engraving, complimentary product personalization, live music and special surprises. At 7pm, guests learned how to get the perfect holiday look during an informative and interactive master class, setting the stage for the rest of the beauty week which will last until December 17th. Saks Fifth Avenue Bahrain is not only the Island’s fashion destination of choice but also the one-stop destination for beauty lovers in Bahrain with exclusive and trendy brands and products from fragrance to skincare and makeup. saksme.com
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FASHION
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December 2019
Iberian Stories Zuhair Murad’s 2020 Spring collection features Spanish flare.
Even the most contemporary bride can find value in tradition, which might explain why royal weddings are so universally beloved these days. While our eyes have recently been on the nuptials of a few British royals, for his Spring 2020 bridal collection Zuhair Murad looked to Spanish weddings, matadors, and flamenco dancers for inspiration, the collection available at Esposa Privé Dubai. His signature couture details told stories of Iberian culture: The elaborate beading and embroidery was based on the ornate embellishments of a bullfighter’s suit, and the needlework on a few dresses revealed outlines of tiny fans. Dramatic capes, a signature of Murad’s, seemed inspired by a torero’s uniform, while cathedral-length mantillas and headbands festooned with oversize flowers might just set a trend for bridal veils and headpieces. For the bride who wants a statement-making gown without a lot of embroidery, there was a longsleeved dress that combined pieced lace, Swiss-dotted tulle, and a pleated ruffle trim. Another playful look was Murad’s V-neck tiered A-line gown scattered with minuscule sequined flowers topped with a feathertrimmed cape. A hand-painted ballgown with abstract floral brushstrokes—a newer technique for Murad and the bridal market in general—exuded sophistication with a sense of whimsy. zuhairmurad.com
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FASHION
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Sweet Dreams Slumberland, LANVIN’s Spring/ Summer 2020 collection pays homage to Little Nemo, a hero emerging from the deepest of dreams.
Created by illustrator Winsor McCay in 1905, the adventures of Little Nemo in Slumberland appeared as a weekly comic strip in the New York Herald that portrayed the escapades of a young boy who had fantastical adventures in his dreams. Bruno Sialelli’s own childhood memories in the south of France often resonated with Nemo, where nothing was impossible, full of happiness, fantasy and dreams. This world is perfectly aligned with the story of Maison Lanvin; a house that began with Jeanne Lanvin drawing clothes for her dear daughter Marguerite.
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For his Spring/Summer 2020 collection - its 64 looks for men and women - Bruno Sialelli adds a new chapter to the Lanvin story. In addition to Nemo, he revisits the elegance of the 1950s-60s and its Swans, as Truman Capote called them. Veritable goddesses of style, these jetsetters such as Lee Radziwill and Babe Paley strutted their elegance from the Hamptons to the Riviera with irresistible effortlessness. lanvin.com
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FASHION
Inspiration began in the Caribbean - the melting pot of cultures juxtaposed with the arresting splendor of natural landscapes. The solar color palette, used to saturate relaxed tailoring and effervescent gowns, was drawn from luminous sunsets. Flora and fauna native to the islands inspired the collection’s grounded hues, intricate prints and the use of natural fabrics - hand-loomed linen, raffia, raw silk - driving a shift in perspective on what constitutes luxury today. The runway reflects the vibrant
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atmosphere, color-washed architecture and lively markets of tropical Old Towns like Santo Domingo, Cartagena, San Juan or Havana. Silhouettes are unabashedly feminine with artful draping, voluminous ruffles or jewel-like embroideries. Ultimately this is a collection that honors the brand’s illustrious heritage by bringing a jolt of exuberance to everyday life. oscardelarenta.com
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Celebrating Heritage Oscar de la Renta’s 2020 Spring collection explores the brand’s Latin roots through a modern lens.
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Universal pieces such as the white shirt, the shirtdress, the dress, the pencil skirt, the Bermuda shorts have been reduced to the essence and interpreted with the richness of Couture, in cotton poplin. The ordinary becomes extraordinary. As permutations unfold and follow one after the other like shades and shadows multiplying on a grisaille, touched by the sense of craft of jewels, shoes and accessories, color slowly slithers in. It is a bright, compact and fluorescent color, immaterial as silk georgette on shapes that have
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been empties from the inside letting the body itself become structure. The movement proceeds to bold fauvist prints charged with a narrative urgency, only to slow down and sink again into total white. Subtraction retains the frenzy and the richness of a whole universe of aesthetic references, just like the non-color white is ultimately a sum of every color of the spectrum. valentino.com
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Style and Substance Valentino’s Spring/Summer 2020 collection goes back to the essence of couture.
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VELVET Goldmine Billionaire’s Fall/Winter 2019 collection is for the self-confident man who wants to make an impression.
Billionaire’s Fall-Winter’19 collection features a distinctive and dandy selection of velvet tailored tuxedos and suits, creating an alluring appearance that is perfect for a grand night out. Classic blacks and navy blues are paired with sleek white silk shirts that make up the perfect fit for a gala, while other pieces in this collection feature theatrical bottle greens, yellow silk bow-tie combos, purple three-piece suits and an array of distinguished accessories and loafers.
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The must-have luxury combo of the season include the Billionaire velvet trousers paired with equestrian-styled croc boots. Billionaire nights can also be colored up in contemporary designs of double-breasted blazers in camouflage prints, gold buttons and embellished with sequins, designed for that extravagant Billionaire man. billionairecouture.com
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Exquisite Style Gorgeous designer hand bags to add a touch of class to your look.
Christian Louboutin Elisa Mini This new hand bag’s eye-catching CL twist lock clasp invokes the splendor of ancient Egypt, its lines echoing the rounded rectangular contours of the hieroglyphic pharaoh’s cartouche. The handbag is crafted in fuchsia calfskin with pleated accordion sides and a tinted-edge finish, highlighting its audacious silhouette. christianlouboutin.com
Valentino The new Valentino Garavani VSLING bag, with its clean and delicate lines, is inspired from the elegant geometries of the seventies that have made great the Maison. The iconic VLOGO brings together minimal essentialism and strong personality. Original and confident, it becomes an object of desire: an impeccable balance between shape and color. valentino.com
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Vhernier Jewel Handbag The very exclusive Vhernier bags with Calla handle, available in very limited number, are made of the most beautiful exotic skins combined with precious rigid handles, shaped in the form of the Calla, Vhernier’s most emblematic piece. vhernier.com
Versace Quilted Virtus Shoulder Bag The Virtus bag takes its name from the Roman deity and symbolizes strength, courage, and character. Crafted in the finest quality leather with V-shaped quilting, the shoulder bag boasts magnetic flap over closure, a top handle and an adjustable shoulder strap. versace.com
Dolce&Gabbana Calfskin Sicily 62 Mini Bag The Sicily 62 mini handbag from the 58-62 line takes inspiration from the dates of birth of Domenico Dolce and Stefano Gabbana, respectively in 1958 and 1962. Versatile and structured, defined by refined geometries, it has exclusive finishes and is equipped with two compartments with a central partition for practical organization of space. dolcegabbana.com
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SHOES
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Stepping in Style
December 2019
Add iconic style to your luxury collection with the latest and most sought-after designer women’s shoes.
Jimmy Choo Fira 100 Black Suede Pumps with Polka-Dot Mesh Overlay Make an entrance at the party of the year in our black suede Fira pumps. They’re detailed with a whimsical polka dot mesh overlay that cinches elegantly at the ankle with velvet ribbon, and the point toe correlates with the sculptural kick heel. Wear them with a knock-out LBD. jimmychoo.com
Christian Louboutin Galativi 100 mm Pumo The Galativi pump merges neon pink UV-reactive Veau Velours with tonal fishnet, unveiling the foot with elegance. Its deep-cut décolleté, 100mm of slim heel and delicate finishes join its slender upper, revealing with each step the savoir-faire of the Maison Christian Louboutin. Switch on a black light and watch her glow! christianlouboutin.com
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Versace V-Bow Cage Pumps These heritage cage pumps are crafted from soft satin and embellished with crystal-enriched accents, including bows and Medusa medallions. They feature pointed toes with high heels and satin straps. versace.com
Gucci Leather Ankle Boot Presented on the Cruise 2020 runway, the pointed-toe white leather ankle boot has a gathered effect that cinches with a thin leather strap and tie. A petite Double G detail at the back heel enriches the silhouette. gucci.com
Dolce&Gabbana Nappa Leather Sandals with Baroque D&G Heel Feminine, sensual and dedicated to the Christmas theme for evening parties, the Keira sandals are made of nappa leather and present the D&G BAROQUE sculpture heel in galvanized ABS. dolcegabbana.com
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ARCHITECTURE
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Boutique Experience
The most luxurious shopping destinations from around the world.
Fornasetti at Harrods London Fornasetti has just opened a new store in London, inside Harrods, world’s leading department store. The Milanese atelier is celebrating this special occasion by producing a new piece in the iconic “Themes and Variations” series, a plate that will be available exclusively at Harrods and Fornasetti, Milan. Inspired by the British punk movement, the design of the plate will combine the famous Fornasetti icon of a female face with symbols of Britain from different eras. In a sort of symbolic reunion, the first Fornasetti store outside Italy will open its doors in the very same city where, in 1980, the “Themes and Variations” gallery was dedicated to its founder as a tribute to and in recognition of his work. Seventy square metres of space will host the Fornasetti store on the third floor of Harrods, in the Luxury Home section of the renovated Interior Department, with an extensive, representative range of products by the visionary Italian atelier. A custommade service, exclusively for Fornasetti customers, will also be available alongside furniture, accessories, ceramics, wallpaper and home fragrances.
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The design of the new store’s spaces was developed by the design studio Brinkworth, with offices in London and NY, which since the 1990s, has mostly worked on interior design projects for the retail sector. The concept was developed around the ideas of rhythm, repetition and illusion, three elements that are part of Fornasetti’s visual language style. The structure of the walls, the alternating between full and empty spaces, the skilful use of materials and colour palettes, plus a few magical touches, recreate the dreamy atmosphere of the Fornasetti universe, playing with perspective displacement and optical illusions so dear to its ironic style. “The new store is the result of an innovative creative project. It focuses on one of the expressions of Fornasettian imagination that reflects the love of graphic design, the abstract and the optical illusions that shake up our points of reference and make proportions disappear,” explains the atelier’s Artistic Director, Barnaba Fornasetti. fornasetti.com
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Richard Mille Dubai Richard Mille is delighted to announce the official re-opening of its regional flagship boutique in the Dubai Mall following a major refurbishment and expansion. The new boutique space has been tripled in size to create a fine Swiss watchmaking gallery inside the world’s largest premium shopping mall. Located in the heart of the Grand Atrium of the Dubai Mall that houses some of the most exclusive international watch and jewelry houses, the new 133 square meter Richard Mille boutique features lighter colors, high ceilings and elegant glass panels to offer a brighter and more spacious
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environment for its guests to relax in and enjoy. Immediately as they set foot through the door, visitors are immersed in a Richard Mille world surrounded by exotic woods, fine black leather walls and rich fabrics that provide the perfect backdrop to showcase the brand’s comprehensive portfolio of horological creations. The range includes Ladies’ and Gents’ collections of automatic and high complication models as well as exclusive and limited-edition timepieces that will keep Richard Mille enthusiasts satisfied. Amongst some of the latest additions to the new boutique space is the on-site watchmaker’s
workshop, which is set behind a glass wall allowing guests to take a sneak peak into the world of fine watchmaking. For those who wish to learn more about Richard Mille, an in-house library provides a selection of brand literature and art books by Editions Cercle d’Art, the Parisian publishing house of Picasso and Braque, under the ownership of Richard Mille Group. The newly re-opened Richard Mille boutique is located on the Ground Floor of Grand Atrium 1 in Dubai Mall and is open daily from 10 am until 12 am. richardmille.com
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“Amongst some of the
latest additions to the new boutique space is the on-site watchmaker’s workshop.”
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First-Class Innovation 01
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With one of the most talented teams in the industry providing combined knowledge and extensive experience, Aquila has established an impressive new standard of power catamaran innovation. 01
With over 40 years of manufacturing experience and the collaboration of multiple award-winning firms and designers, Aquila Power Catamarans is the world leader in producing high quality, innovation filled and exceptionally performing power catamarans. No other vessels on the planet offer more features, reliability, durability and value than their world class lineup delivers. Designed to be a power luxury catamaran, Aquila is the top-selling power catamaran brand in the US, with more than 250 yachts sold so far and with speeds reaching 42 knots with foil technology. From spectacular panoramic windows to inviting open spaces Aquila cabins feel more like your villa on the water than a traditional boat cabin. The rear galley with its “welcome aboard� window and seating extends the living and entertaining space to incorporate the outdoors when weather is inviting. Or, on rainy days it protects the cabin while maintaining visibility with an all glass rear bulkhead. The Aqui-Lift platform offers multiple positions for effortless seawall height boarding or lowered it delivers easy access to the water for swimming, diving or just cooling off.
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Through the use of engineered carbon fiber cross members in larger Aquila Power Catamarans, great strength and rigidity are delivered without adding performance compromising weight or taking up larger living spaces with oversized construction elements. Typically found only in custom and highperformance applications, Aquila has engineered a transitioning foil that allows the boat to rise and descend based on speed. The Aquila Hydro Glide Fixed Foil bridges both hulls and includes two independent foils on each transom. The added dihedral angle of a V shape to the main foil makes the transition up and down from “floating to flying� smooth and predictable. Fuel efficiency is improved by as much as 40% and top speeds as much as 35% with this feature. In terms of performance, the engineered tunnel between the hulls are designed to reduce drag, increase lift and cushion the ride, delivering an exceptional ride, while the raised bridge decks improve
open-water performance by reducing draft, vibration and resistance of waves impacting hull bottom. Variable speed air-conditioning pumps provide for quieter operation, smoother start up and reduced energy use, and the use of Raymarine electronics provide for fully integrated and seamless operation, from AIS transponders to VHF radio, radars and chartplotters as well as auxiliary cameras and monitoring devices. Aquila has and continues to design and construct hulls designed specifically for outboard power. Coupling the unique elements of outboard power with a purpose-built hull delivers a higher degree of performance for your power source. Optimal horsepower for lift and depth are achieved when all elements are considered from the inception of an Aquila Power Catamaran. Prop pockets beneath the hull add to efficiency while reducing draft for shallow water explorations. Although painstaking and labor intense, the
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team at Aquila thinks long term and invests time and materials to ensure it. Quality starts with design. The world-class design and engineering team assembled by Aquila includes naval architects, engineers, production management and inspired designers from around the globe. Members of the renowned J&J Design group have played a key role in the development of the brand. From the foundation, quality is first. From the origination of the hull and deck shapes careful attention to the smallest detail delivers a finished product of exacting standards. Parts fit right and fit tight improving overall quality and the owner experience. The sourcing of quality materials is important to the outcome as the design and construction process. Global purchasing and sourcing takes place from multiple offices and countries to ensure the highest quality, best service and value is put into every Aquila. Aquila Power Catamarans, recognized
globally for its high-quality, advanced composite manufacturing capabilities, Sino Eagle Yachts builds Aquila Power Catamarans in a state-of-the-art facility to exacting standards. Aquila Middle East is backed by the Ilyas & Mustafa Galadari Group, a highly regarded, multi-faceted organization based in Dubai. The group has a long history of entrepreneurship, including luxury yachts, dating from the 1940’s. Aquila Middle East will cover multiple territories including, United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Qatar, Oman, and Bahrain. Leading the way in the market segment, Aquila continues to pave the way with strong international sales of the award-winning Aquila brand. Uncompromising design coupled with unmatched industry experience, engineering and manufacturing by world-class builders, make up the Aquila line of true pure-bred power catamarans. aquilaboats.com
“From spectacular panoramic windows
to inviting open spaces Aquila cabins feel more like your villa on the water than a traditional boat cabin.”
01 Aquila is the top-selling power catamaran brand in the US 02 Power luxury catamarans 03 Aquila Power Catamarans’ speeds can reach 42 knots 04, 05, 06, 07 The interior features world-class design
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Revel in Riyadh Season Saudi Seasons aims to transform the Kingdom into a leading tourism destination, providing a unique year-round entertainment and cultural experience to visitors from around the world. Riyadh Season is the jewel in the crown. 01 One of the performances by Riyadh Boulevard 02 Saudi singer Mohammed Abdu
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Riyadh Season is one of the largest Saudi Seasons festivals and is among the biggest events to have ever been hosted by the Kingdom. Aimed at boosting the country’s tourism and entertainment offering, the festival highlights Riyadh as a cradle of ancient civilizations and a fast-growing financial and investment hub in the region. Fans of arts, music, sports, culture, heritage, and shopping are being treated to many unique and fun-filled attractions and experiences to keep them entertained and engaged throughout the festival. Activities are taking place across 12 major zones, namely: Riyadh Boulevard, Riyadh Front, Riyadh Car Show, Riyadh Winter Wonderland, Riyadh Stadiums, The Diplomatic Quarter, Al-Muraba’a, Al-Malaz, Wadi Namar, Nabd Al Riyadh, Riyadh Safari, and Riyadh Sahara.
The Riyadh Boulevard kicked off in a spectacular style with a parade the likes of which are rarely seen. It featured 25 floats and more than 1,500 performers dressed in unique costumes, alongside motorcycle shows, fireworks, and many other surprises for citizens, residents and visitors. Riyadh Boulevard lit up its streets for an hour and a half with a carnival featuring international and artistic shows. This year, Winter Wonderland came all the way from Hyde Park, London to the heart of the Arabian Desert, featuring more than 20 events and 42 different games and activities. Riyadh Winter Wonderland is held on an open space of 200,000 square metres and includes the largest skating rink in the Middle East. The winter celebration offers games, competitions, and performances, as well as many shopping opportunities and an exceptional 01 gastronomic experience.
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The Riyadh Winter Wonderland also includes 130 different shops, and Saudi youth are currently being trained to run this massive entertainment city entirely on their own. This destination also hosts the Real Madrid Interactive Expo for fans of the Spanish club, as well as a Lego exhibition. The concert experiences at this year’s Riyadh Season are a highlight for many visitors. One of the sold-out events saw four acts take to the Mohammad Abdo stage to perform. Saudi DJ Dish Dash, Egyptian singer Amr Diab, American rapper French Montana and Belgian DJ duo Dimitri Vegas & Like Mike thrilled the crowds with energetic performances. Motoring enthusiasts are turning out in force for the Riyadh Season car show, which is showcasing 1,200 models, including vintage, rare, customised, futuristic and classic cars brought in from the US and
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DESTINATION
other countries. A recent auction at the event saw a 2017 Pagani Zonda Riviera sold for a record SR20.62 million ($5.5million). Spanning an area of 65 thousand square metres, Wadi Namar includes the most beautiful and famous parks in the capital Riyadh. Characterised by its quiet environment, it features attractive aesthetic spaces, an artificial lake, and a private promenade. It is located in the south of Tirmidhi Street between Exits 24 and 25 in the Namar District on the Western Ring Road. The valley, which includes 900-metre-long corridors and a parking lot for around 500 cars, will host 24 entertainment events. The annual Riyadh Season has, for the first time this year, introduced a desert safari experience as part of its programme. It will enable exotic animal enthusiasts to experience the prairie environment
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amidst the rarest animals from all around the world. It will also include special events and recreational activities that attract those who love exploration and adventure. Riyadh Safari occupies an area of 150,000 square metres where sporting events will be held, while the park next door, spanning the same area, will host six entertainment events. Even after the Riyadh Season concludes in January 2020, the Kingdom’s blossoming tourism sector is expected to continue drawing visitors from across the region and beyond. Since officially opening its doors to tourists from around the world in September, Saudi Arabia has been booming with Western visitors who are allowed to travel all over the country — except to the holy cities of Medina and Mecca. Camping in the Saudi desert is now also possible, with several travel companies even organising
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03 Fireworks displays 04 The unique desert safari experience 05 Riyadh Season car show displayed over 1,200 models 06 Part of the Ana Arabia exhibition
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overnight trips to Jebel Fihrayn, otherwise known as the Edge of the World. The site is a geological wonder and consists of cliffs that measure 980-feet tall. Those who enjoy diving and snorkeling can venture into the Red Sea to admire the coral reefs that remain virtually untouched. The Kingdom’s rich and unique cultural identity makes it an ideal destination for tourists. Saudi Arabia is home to five Unesco World Heritage sites; Al-Ahsa Oasis, Al-Hijr Archaeological Site (Madain Saleh) in AlUla, Al-Turaif district in Diriyah, Historic Jeddah, and rock art in the Hail region. With so many enthralling attractions and exciting experiences, Saudi Arabia looks set to make its mark as one of the world’s leading tourism destinations for many years to come.
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01 The Royal Suite 02 The Lobby at the Jumeirah Royal Saray
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Royal Treatment
An elegant beachfront hotel with a selection of world-class restaurants, Jumeirah Royal Saray offers an unrivalled experience in luxurious hospitality. Whether relaxing on a private beach retreat, indulging yourself in luxurious spa treatments, or enjoying the finest international cuisines, you will be immersed in a world of sublime opulence.
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The hotel offers several types of accommodation, including four regal Bahraini villas, each with a private infinity pool. Spread over two levels and overlooking a lush garden, the Royal Villas are the epitome of luxury, ideal for those seeking total seclusion and privacy. Three generous en-suite bedrooms and a private infinity pool make this the perfect choice for families. The Four-Bedroom Royal Villas, seafront, with a unique view over the Arabian Gulf, offer about 1000 square meters of living space, making them the most spacious villas on the island. Jumeirah Royal Saray fuses exquisite architecture with beautiful surroundings. This superb combination makes it a treasured destination for events in Bahrain. The luxurious Al Sarra Ballroom is wonderful for weddings, and the outdoor spaces, right next to the water, are exceptional places to welcome guests to memorable evening events. And with a dedicated team to help, they make hosting an event seamless, whether it’s for a small, intimate group or a grand reception or conference.
Dining options at Jumeirah Royal Saray are exceptional. Guests can enjoy elegant cuisine from the French Riviera in a marbled hall, with drinks and desserts on the terrace at Brasserie Royale, lively late-night drinking and dining with live music at PLAY Restaurant & Lounge, or head to Al Hadiqa Pool & Beach for drinks and light bites served poolside or on the private beach. For those seeking the finer things in life, they can enjoy a tempting tapas menu and the largest selection of cigars in Bahrain at Havana Club Cigars and Finery. There is no shortage of memorable experiences to be lived at Jumeirah Royal Saray. Guests can relax on the exclusive private beach, lounge under the shade of a palm tree, or swim in the tranquil waters of the Arabian Gulf. Beach waiters at the Al Hadiqa Pool and Beach serve the sandy stretch as well as the pool area. Sun beds, loungers and six air-conditioned cabanas offer additional places to unwind, while lifeguards ensure the safety of all guests.
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As for those looking for an adrenaline rush, they have their choice of a number of daring activities, from jet skiing along the majestic coast of Bahrain, kayaking, hurricane towables, wakeboarding or waterskiing, and extreme sports on Jumeirah Royal Saray’s range of aquatic flying sports, including Flyboard, Subwing, and Kneeboard. Those looking for a more tranquil experience can unwind on boat tours that will take them on a peaceful journey, and unwind as they go fishing, scuba diving, or even diving for pearls. Younger family members will love Jumeirah Royal Sarya’s Kids Club, where they can make new friends, enjoy games and a range of sporting activities while supervised by a professional team. In addition to the games, the club also offers arts and crafts, and children’s movies, guaranteeing that the little ones will remain a happy the whole time. jumeirah.com
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03 The main entrance features exquisite decor 04 Twin Arabian Deluxe Guest Room 05 Gorgeous interior of The Ocean Suite 06 The Royal Suite Bathroom 07 Al Hadiqa Pool and beach
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“Guests can relax on the exclusive
private beach, lounge under the shade of a palm tree, or swim in the tranquil waters of the Arabian Gulf.”
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01 Beach Pool Villa Bathroom 02 SKY at Sunset
A SLICE OF PARADISE
03 Two Bedroom Over Water Residence
Located on the Baa Atoll in a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, Anantara Kihavah Maldives Villas is a luxury resort that invites you to imagine your own paradise. Durrah visited this stunning destination to experience its many enticing offerings.
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Surrounded by nothing but turquoise lagoon, which melts into sapphire blue, the island of Kihavah and its pure white sands rise out of the ocean like a mirage. For centuries, Arab traders en route to the Far East took shelter on the island, a lush paradise blessed by coconut, papaya and mango trees. Navigating archipelago to archipelago by the stars, the seafarers were also drawn by the riches of the ocean surrounding the island – where a prehistoric volcano sank back into the depths, leaving blooming corals and a wealth of lagoon fish. Wishing to keep the pristine nature of the island intact, not one tree has been moved – as evidenced by the villas growing up around them. The resort’s distinct design pays homage to the seafarers of old, fusing Indian Ocean, Arab and Portuguese motifs with indigenous materials. The breathtaking villas allow guests to hide away
in a private slice of paradise, steps from the ocean on sandy shores or directly perched over azure waters. You can swim in your pool, laze on a swinging daybed, or take in the most magnificent of sunsets from the secluded comfort of your villa. The resort offers more than just luxury accommodation, it provides a holistic experience that leaves you feeling relaxed and rejuvenated. The Anantara Spa at Kihavah is replete with wellness offerings, including the Cocoon Medical Spa, two Ayurveda retreat programmes, and the Deluxe Spa Pool Villa. For those who wish to maintain a stressfree and balanced lifestyle, or need the inspiration to start a new pathway towards self-healing, the spa offers a variety of wellness journeys, each customdesigned to guests’ specific needs. The newly devised Ayurveda retreats at Anantara 01 Kihavah feature a tailored combination of treatments
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and exercise, as well as diet and lifestyle modifications to bring balance to our vital energies. Ayurveda, a 5,000-year-old natural science, teaches us to live with insight and balance and bring about a comprehensive wellness approach into our lifestyles. The Longevity programme targets the everyday toxins that overload our liver and immune system, and lead to illnesses and allergies. Whereas the Detoxifying programme is designed to rejuvenate the body, strengthen the immune system and restore a naturally vibrant glow through addressing the damaging effects of modern life stresses. The Deluxe Spa Pool Villa features an indoor, en-suite spa room where a spa therapist devoted solely to their relaxation and rejuvenation needs offers a range of treatments. Guests can also enjoy their treatments outside on the private poolside terrace, as
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they’re lulled by the sounds of the ocean. The house reef at Anantara Kihavah Maldives Villas is home to a variety of marine species varying from planktonic organisms to sharks, crustaceans, and corals. Here dolphins, turtles, eagle rays and reef sharks can be seen thriving in their natural habitat. The resident marine biologist is instrumental in protecting the biodiversity of the house reef by developing reef restoration projects including Anantara’s Coral Adoption Programme, fragmentation cloning, and a Kids Marine Biology Programme. The resort offers a wealth of incredible experience for guests to enjoy, including the chance to get upclose-and-personal with reef manta rays at the world’s largest natural manta feeding region. Depending on your capabilities and comfort level, you can snorkel or free dive with these gentle giants at the protected site
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of Hanifaru Bay. Swimming alongside whale sharks is another amazing bucket-list experience that guests of Anantara Kihavah may be lucky enough to experience. Whale sharks also favour the Baa Atoll archipelago during Manta season, but they are rarely sighted. An astronomer’s paradise, Baa Atoll is one of the best places on earth to enjoy stargazing due to its proximity to the equator. The resort offers an immersive experience at Sky, an overwater observatory combined with a luxury cocktail bar. Housing the most powerful telescope in the region, it allows guests to gaze at the stars as they sip champagne and revel in this window to the universe. Adding to the experience, Sky Guru Ali Shameem is on hand to point out Sirius, the brightest star in the night sky, Arcturus, Capella, Spica and Omega Centauri, the largest known globular cluster in the
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04 Anantara Kihavah Beach Pool Villas 05 Sandbank Dining by Design 06 Beach Pool Villa. 07 Art Classes 08 SEA Underwater Restaurant
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Milky Way galaxy. If you are lucky, you’ll see the paleyellow rings of Saturn or the belts of Jupiter. The stargazing isn’t the only out-of-this-world experience that guests can look forward to. The resort is home to a signature four in one dining concept; Sea, Fire, Spice, and Sky, each offering a variety of gastronomic delights. Sea, the world’s first underwater wine cellar and restaurant, entices visitors with incredible menus for lunch and dinner. Diners can relish connoisseur creations paired with a wine range spanning nine decades, all while admiring the dazzling marine life swimming beyond the curved glass wall. Another stand out concept is Fire, a Japanese-themed venue where diners can marvel at the acrobatic cooking skills of talented chefs on their culinary stage. Anantara Kihavah Maldives Villas is a must-visit destination, offering adventure, relaxation, and unmatched hospitality in equal measure. It truly is a gem in the Maldivian crown that has to be seen to be believed. anantara.com
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01 The surrounding nature influences the room’s design 02 An inviting ambiance
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03 The hotel’s wooden interiors are painted in a blue-green hue
La Maison des Cèdres LEBANON Neighbour of the legendary Cedars of God forest, La Maison des Cèdres is located 1,820 metres above sea level in northern Lebanon, a region where everything is different. The hotel is crowned with amazing landscapes that complement its distinct charm and rich character. Inspired by the surrounding nature, the hotel’s wooden interiors are painted in a blue-green hue, marrying the sky and the trees. What used to be the Auberge des Cèdres has been renovated and redecorated by Désirée Sadek, who used the natural elements around the hotel as a muse. The textures, custom furniture, and tinted walls adorned with cedar pictures are all deliberate choices to ensure the property resembles the beautiful region of Bsharri. For those wishing to take a piece of this beauty back home, you can now order the beautiful pictures signed by artist Guillaume de Laubier as well as the solid wood tables designed by Jessica Ayoub. Visitors can spend their time at the hotel enjoying a diverse range of activities with the option of doing as much or as little as they like.
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Slide down the snowy slopes, have a drink at the bar, enjoy a cup of tea in the orange lounge, read in the library, or indulge in gourmet fare at the restaurant, the choices are abundant. There is also much to do nearby. The Cedars of God forest is widely regarded as one of the most enchanting places on earth. It is listed as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO, as is the nearby Wadi Qannoubine, which contains grandiose natural treasures and four monastic complexes dating back to the early Christian period. Surrounded by mountains that glow in the setting sun, La Maison des Cèdres is worth the trip in all seasons. Visitors can take a spiritual journey that begins at the foot of the giant cedars and continues to Bsharri, the city of Prophet Khalil Gebran, ending in Bekaakafra. In this village where time stands still, make sure you visit the tiny chapel that used to be the home of Charbel, the Saint of Lebanon. lamaisondescedres.net
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04 A charming spot to unwind 05 The hotel is rich with character
Redefining Hospitality 04
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The Merchant House BAHRAIN The Merchant House, Bahrain’s first boutique hotel to be awarded a five-star rating, is enticing travellers to try something new on their next visit to the Kingdom. This jewel in the heart of Manama’s old town is an ideal setting for both business and leisure. The hotel offers 46 luxury suites, a rooftop garden restaurant, a library with a curated collection of thousands of books, and a gym and spa. A dedicated team is also on hand to deliver personalised and quality service. The Friday Brunch and traditional Afternoon T further add to the hotel’s appeal. The brunch is held in Indigo Rooftop Restaurant, offering a distinctive and refreshing ambiance amidst the backdrop of its garden terrace. Acclaimed Chef Robert Shipman’s exciting menu pairs flavours and ingredients that are authentic to both Mediterranean and Asian cuisines. The brunch also features signature mocktails and beverages. The Afternoon T is inspired by the tradition of the English afternoon tea and borrows some of Gordon Campbell Gray’s grandmother’s recipes, including
mini sandwiches and freshly baked scones served with homemade strawberry preserve and clotted cream. Drawing influences from the silk route history of Bahrain as a trading hub connecting East to West, it also features spices and flavours of the region such as fresh ginger, fruits, dates, and nuts. The Merchant House houses a collection of over 200 pieces of original artwork from both international and local artists for visitors to admire. Guests can also relax and unwind at the PureGray Spa, which provides a range of bespoke holistic treatments for those looking to switch off after a long day. The Merchant House is a part of Campbell Gray Hotels’ line-up of luxury properties. Despite only launching earlier this year, the hotel has scooped up several awards, including the Boutique Hotel of the Year at the Leaders in Hospitality Awards 2019, and the Luxury Boutique Hotel of the Year at the LTG Africa and Middle East Awards 2019.
06 Meeting Room 07 Corner Suite 08 The Library 09 Executive Suite
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10 Suite presidential bedroom 11 Presidential Suite Living Room 12 Suites deluxe junior suite bathroom 13 Lobby Reception
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Mandarin Oriental Milan Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group is renowned for its stunning selection of properties around the world. Its luxurious locations in Italy are ideal destinations for discerning travellers wishing to explore the country’s illustrious heritage and culture. Italy’s fashion and design capital, Milan is a vibrant cosmopolitan city, home to exclusive boutiques and designer showrooms. Occupying four elegant 18th century buildings, Mandarin Oriental, Milan lies at the crossroads of the city’s fashion, business, and cultural districts. It is just a stone’s throw away from the city’s main sights and world-famous art galleries, museums, and the Scala opera house. The hotel offers a charming mix of style and luxury, with 70 elegant rooms and 34 spacious
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suites. Guests can discover a range of authentic cuisine at the Italian fine dining restaurant, Seta, run by acclaimed chef Antonio Guida, and enjoy the relaxed atmosphere of the Mandarin Bar. Less than an hour’s drive north of Milan lies stunning Lake Como, with grand historical villas and picture-perfect villages dotted along its shoreline. With its enviable lakefront location, Mandarin Oriental, Lago di Como is ideally situated for exploring the lake’s main attractions, including the city of Como, where many smart boutiques and family-run restaurants can be found. Nestled between the luxuriant botanical park and lake, the resort represents a seductive blend of Italian style, oriental charm, and natural beauty. Housed within nine separate
villas, accommodation includes 21 guestrooms, 52 suites, and two private villas. The resort is perfect for those seeking a relaxing getaway or an active break. It offers a floating pool, a 1,300 sqm spa and an exquisite choice of Mediterranean cuisine at the fine dining restaurant L˜ARIA or at CO.MO Bar & Bistrot. Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group is the awardwinning owner and operator of some of the world’s most luxurious hotels, resorts and residences. The Group now operates 32 hotels and six residences in 23 countries and territories. Mandarin Oriental is a member of the Jardine Matheson Group. mandarinoriental.com
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01 The vitality pool at The Spa, Mandarin Oriental Jumeira 02 The VIP Suite is the perfect way to relax 03 Guests are taken to an oasis from the moment they enter 04 The Spa focuses on balancing between the body, mind and spirit
Serene Treatments Take your body and mind on a journey of relaxation with these worldwide destinations of tranquility.
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Mandarin Oriental Jumeira Dubai The Spa at Mandarin Oriental Jumeira, Dubai offers an all-encompassing wellbeing experience that goes beyond providing simple massage treatments. With a focus on achieving a balance between body, mind and spirit, guests can look forward to a truly holistic experience. The 2,000 square metre spa features nine treatment rooms, including a hammam-style suite, a VIP suite, and heat and water experiences. A welcoming oasis, the concept of the spa is based on a desert scape with the layout following the lines of undulating sand dunes, encouraging guests to switch off and unwind. A stylish ground floor designed to evoke the warmth of the sand dunes features a reception area, an inviting waiting lounge, a retail space, private consultation rooms, and a beautifully imposing staircase leading to the upper floor. Arched walls separate each dune space, creating different zones where guests can either relax in total privacy or interact with other guests. Ambient lighting, cool marble and warm timber enhance the form and contours of the different areas, while enhancing the calming feel of the space. The Spa at Mandarin Oriental Jumeira, Dubai offers all Mandarin Oriental’s signature treatments including Oriental Harmony, the perfect way to beat jet lag, and the Digital Wellness Escape, to combat the effects of technology. Two signature
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Essence of Arabia therapies, Nomadic Sensory and Royal Saffron, are inspired by the hotel’s locale, and have been created exclusively for Mandarin Oriental Jumeira, Dubai. Nomadic Sensory takes guests on a rhythmic ritual that captures the spirit of Emirati Bedouin life, using the beat of a Doumbek (Arabic goblet drum). Both treatments utilise locally-sourced artisanal products and handblended aromatics, including indigenous herbs. The hammam-style suite offers purification and relaxation with a modern touch. It features an exclusive Gharieni’s Libra Edge K bed equipped with a special shower feature that provides different water temperatures and pressure, controlled via an interactive panel. The premium range of holistic spa products include Hammamii – a locally produced line of Hammam skincare, Subtle Energies – a natural skincare brand blending Ayurveda and Aromatherapy, LING New York – fusing Asian health principles with the latest technology, and the results-driven Aromatherapy Associates, together with Mandarin Oriental’s own bespoke products. The extensive heat and water facilities include indoor vitality pools, dry saunas, steam rooms, heated relaxation lounges, experience showers and ice fountains. mandarinoriental.com
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Mandarin Oriental Milan The Spa at Mandarin Oriental, Milan offers a holistic experience that results in long-lasting regeneration of mind, body and soul. The five key elements of Chinese Feng Shui philosophy, Fire, Earth, Wood, Metal, and Water are applied to the 900 square metre spa’s design, creating a welcoming environment that encourages relaxation and rejuvenation. The Spa has six treatment rooms, including two double rooms, two retreats for individuals, one Thai massage room, and a Spa suite with its own vitality pool. Other facilities include a fitness centre equipped with the latest Technogym machines and a heated, indoor swimming pool, and spacious male and female changing rooms with saunas and steam baths. Every visit to The Spa begins with a traditional welcoming ritual, followed by a private consultation with a therapist who will ensure treatments are tailored to the individual needs of each guest. At the end of each treatment, guests receive lifestyle recommendations and organic juices that have been specifically designed to accompany the treatments and prolong their benefits. A beauty studio and a hair salon complete the range of available services. The Spa at the Mandarin Oriental Milan offers a menu of treatments, including Mandarin Oriental Signature Therapies developed with
Chinese medicine specialists and aromatherapy 05 experts that leave guests satisfied. The journeys, treatments, and experiences offered at The Spa represent a marriage of east and west. Based on oriental knowledge, they have been developed over centuries and enhanced using Mandarin Oriental’s experience in the field of holistic wellbeing, while the products used are made from the finest Italian ingredients. The different product lines used in treatments at The Spa are also offered for sale, including paraben-free Aromatherapy Associates products made exclusively for Mandarin Oriental from natural ingredients, and Biologique Recherche. Fully equipped with Technogym ARTIS machines, the fitness centre provides the ideal setting for all levels of training. ARTIS is the first fully integrated cardio, strength and functional product collection. From 6 am to 9 am, a jogging station at the hotel entrance provides a bottle of water and towel for guests who want to jog through Milan’s charming streets or beautiful parks nearby. As well as providing maps and suggested running routes, the Head Concierge will, when available, accompany guests on their morning run, highlighting the city’s sights along the way.
05 The refreshing pool at The Spa, Mandarin Oriental Milan 06 The treatment rooms include signature therapies 07 The Spa embraces the key elements of the Feng Shui philosophy 08 The Spa Suites guarantee rejuvenation and relaxation 09 The VIP Suite at The Spa, Mandarin Oriental Milan
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10 10 The divine Cheval Blanc Randheli 11 he Maison’s wellness journeys are the first of their kind in the Maldives 12 Enjoy daily activities at breathtaking views 13 The treatment rooms were designed for tranquility
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Cheval Blanc Randheli Maldives The first of their kind in the Maldives, the Maison offers three bespoke wellness journeys to ensure ultimate restoration. With programmes ranging from one to five days, guests are invited to choose a daily spa, fitness, sport, and culinary activity, creating a personalised and effective journey. For blissful relaxation and tranquil renewal, the first programme, the Well-being Journey, encourages gentle restoration of the body and mind through wholesome, healing activities. For a results-driven renewal, the Detox &
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Fitness Journey focuses on de-stressing and healthful dieting through diverse spa, fitness and sport practices. Finally, to bring the entire family together, the Maison offers a unique Family Well-being Journey for loved ones to accomplish together. From stimulating active adventures, to hands-on spa lessons, to teamwork culinary sessions, the whole family can get involved. chevalblanc.com
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Culinary Alchemy Acclaimed Michelin-starred chef, Antonio Guida is the Executive Chef of Mandarin Oriental, Milan. Having travelled extensively across Europe and Asia, Chef Guida concocts unexpected and delightful recipes that draw on various culinary inspirations.
Antonio Guida has always been fascinated by the world of culinary alchemy, which has defined his career. Following extensive travels in Europe and Asia, Chef Guida worked at various Michelin starred restaurants such as Pierre Gagnaire in Paris, Enoteca Pinchiorri in Florence and Don Alfonso in Sant’ Agata sui due Golfi on the beautiful Amalfi Coast. He then joined the restaurant La Terrazza Hotel Eden in 2000 as Sous Chef, eventually rising to the position of Chef de Cuisine before leaving to join Il Pellicano as Executive Chef in 2002. It was here that Chef Guida gained two Michelin stars in 2004 and 2010 and entered the list of renowned Italian restaurants. After twelve years of great cuisine and memories, Antonio Guida felt that the time had come for a
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new challenge: appointed Executive Chef at the new Mandarin Oriental in Milan, he is now showcasing his culinary art in the lively gourmet scenario of the most international of Italian cities. Antonio Guida led the hotel’s Seta restaurant to gain the first Michelin star in 2015, four months after opening, followed by the second Michelin star in 2016. Antonio Guida has a true passion for the culinary arts, characterized by an attention to detail and the refined quality of seasonal ingredients that he uses. He constantly strives to find the perfect balance between taste and presentation and is always a source of inspiration for his team. mandarinoriental.com/milan
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Cauliflower with Almond Milk Sauce, Yuzu Juice and Seafood Ingredients Almond milk • 300g water • 100g sliced almonds Cauliflower cream • 250g cauliflower • 100g milk Seafood • • • •
mussels clams shrimps periwinkle
Other ingredients • cauliflowers • yuzu juice • mussel and clam water • Normandy butter • Shredded almonds • Nori seaweed • 1l milk • single cream Method Prepare the almond milk by mixing the almonds with water in the hotmix at 95° for 10 minutes, filter and season to taste. Make the cauliflower cream by cooking cauliflowers in milk until soft and mash until smooth. Mix 100g with 200g of the almond milk you just prepared. Whip butter with water and yuzu juice. Put in a pan, add seafood and warm. Clean the cauliflowers, divide them into florets and cook them for 7 minutes in 1l milk and 100g of cream. Let them cool and then fry in seed oil at 180° until golden. Dampen with mussel and clam water and with yuzu butter. Put the cauliflower cream in the middle of the plate, top with the cauliflower, garnish with seafood, shredded almonds, a few drops of yuzu juice and finally a toasted nori seaweed julienne.
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Risotto “Cagnone Style” With Vegetables and Pecorino Ingredients Risotto • • • • • • • • • • • •
12 oz Carnaroli rice 1.7 oz White wine Shallot Confit 1 Laurel leaf 1 Clove of garlic 16 oz Vegetable stock Extra-virgin olive oil 1.76 oz Butter 0.88 oz Grated parmesan cheese 0.7 oz Grated pecorino cheese Salt Julienne sage
Salted vegetables • Carrots • Zucchini • Green beans • Peas Garnish • • • •
Red turnip Pecorino Borage flowers Baby spinach
Method In a hot pan, pour a little olive oil, the laurel leaf and the unpeeled clove of garlic; add the white wine, let it evaporate and continue cooking with the vegetable stock. When ready, mix the rice with butter, the julienne of sage, and the grated parmesan and pecorino cheeses. Cut the vegetables in diamond shape, blanch them and then sauté them quickly in a pan with a drop of stock and olive oil. Put the risotto in the middle of the plate and garnish it with the sautéed vegetables. Shave the red turnip and pecorino over the risotto to add the final touch.
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Liquorice Parfait With Crystallised Tobacco Leaves, Spiced Pear And Coffee Cream Ingredients Liquorice parfait • Fresh cream,1000g • Granulated sugar, 250g • Water, 100g • Egg yolks, 320g • Leaf gelatin, 10.5g • Powdered liquorice, 15g
Soak the leaf gelatine and prepare a paté à bombe. When the paté à bombe is hot add the gelatine and liquorice. Once cool, add the semi-whipped cream. Tobacco • organic tobacco, 1000g • 1:1 syrup, 1000g
Cook the tobacco in 1:1 syrup for 30 minutes. Roll out onto a non-stick baking mat and oven cook at 180°C for 10 minutes. Spiced pears • Williams pears, 300g • 1:1 syrup, 300g • Star anise • Black pepper • Vanilla pods • Green cardamom
Clean and slice the pears and place them in a sousvide pouch with the rest of the ingredients. Cook in a steam oven for about 20-25 minutes at 95°C. Coffee cream • Fresh cream, 300g • Fresh milk, 500g • Egg yolks, 160g • Sugar, 100g • Coffee beans, 100g • Espresso shots, 6 Make crème anglaise using all the ingredients.
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Refined TASTE Experience a culinary journey with award-winning and critically acclaimed restaurants from around the world.
Indya by Vineet Dubai Michelin Starred Chef Vineet brings a fresh & modern take on Indian street food to Indya. Taking influence from the vibrant colors and textures of India, the brief was to create a casual yet unexpected and inspired dining experience. The restaurant, located at Le Royal Meridien at Jumeirah Beach, mixes a simple material palette of concrete flooring and an exposed ceiling with real wow elements such as the impressive floor to ceiling Ganesh graffiti. A vibrant mix of eclectic pieces immediately gives this outlet a fun and unique identity. colorful FF&E paired with strong geometric patterns will appeal to anyone wanting a distinct Indian flavor with a twist. The dynamic circular shape of the restaurant, lends itself to creating a different experience in every element of the restaurant including a hidden gem within the large central core. Upon approaching the restaurant, a peek into the signature gin tasting room leaves a visitor longing to see more. Illuminated graphic
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panels house a range of unusual and limited edition, Indian themed gins for an intimate and signature cocktail experience or alternatively a large communal high table is placed by the bar to create the perfect space for trying the sensational cocktails. Large booth seating areas are perfect for big groups whilst a more interactive and casual experience at the open kitchen counter can also be enjoyed Attention is drawn to the kitchen through the open concept with large functioning tandoors on display at the counter. Bifold doors around the full perimeter of the space allow for the restaurant to be fully opened, giving a different, al fresco dining experience to be enjoyed in the cooler months. The fun interiors of the restaurant coupled with the personality and cooking flare of Chef Vineet, create a relaxed yet colorful experience, in almost every way. indya-dubai.com
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06 Bold Japanese ambience 07 Authentic elements 08 Tomato salad 09 Bonito Tuna Tataki 10 A birds-eye view of the interior
Netsu Dubai Mandarin Oriental Jumeira, Dubai already has the distinction of being the first Mandarin Oriental resort within the Middle East and now it has another first under its belt: introducing the region to traditional Japanese cooking technique, Warayaki. Introducing a new concept to a new massive hit and celebrated concept that’s been established so far in the market. Mandarin Oriental Jumeira, Dubai already has the distinction of being the first Mandarin Oriental resort within the Middle East and now it has another first under its belt: it is introducing the region to traditional Japanese cooking technique, Warayaki. Originating from the Kochi Prefecture in Shikoku, Netsu’s chefs grill food using dry straw instead of charcoal, giving it a unique flavor and taste. Meats and seafood are beautifully seared on the outside maintaining a very tender and juicy flesh on the inside. The soaring flames also create a spectacle, adding an element of drama to the dining experience. The concept is brought by acclaimed chef and restauranteur Ross Shonhan. The Australianborn chef is passionate about both Japan and the country’s cuisine and is widely credited for popularizing Japan’s street food scene. mandarinoriental.com
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11 A striking visual design 12 Appetising Agnello 13 Crostini Trio 14 The stylish and inviting bar
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Marea New York Dubai Dubai’s latest dining destination, Marea, reveals a mesmerizing live-jazz night to add some rhythm to those mid-week blues. ‘Jazz After Dark’ invites music enthusiasts to indulge in the best of authentic Italian cuisine, as the delightful vocalist and music producer Claudia Patrice sweeps you away performing live, soulful hits. Transporting guests in a New York minute, Marea takes you from the concrete jungle of the DIFC to the bustling streets of Manhattan, to embark on an unparalleled musical journey. Embrace the party atmosphere as Claudia performs classic hits from Frank Sinatra, Alicia Keys and The Supremes, and an eclectic mix of current hits.
The perfect evening rendezvous with your friends, celebrate in style as you devour the authentic culinary flavors of Italy, and learn how to mix your own cocktails from the Marea drinks trolley. With a delicious seafood menu highlighting the best of the sea and beyond, the Crudo selection offers an appetizing range of raw fish, such as the refreshing Seppia (cuttlefish, cucumber, carrot, bottarga) prepared with the freshest of ingredients. Fresh and flavourful, the Antipasti menu offers a delectable range of options to choose from including a light Beet Salad (roasted beets, goat cheese, apple mint, walnuts) or an indulgent Crostini Trio (green pea and pecorino,
artichoke and white bean anchovy, butter and black truffle) perfect for sharing with your party. For the mains, choose from a scrumptious Agnello (pan seared lamb chops, roasted summer squash eggplant caviar, pistachio, olive jus), and satisfy your taste buds with a delicious handmade pasta Pansotti (herbed ricotta filling, arugula, basil pesto). End your evening at the Marea lounge and dance the night away to Studio 54 inspired hits, mixed with the latest in house favorites, ensuring a full experience of the city that never sleeps. marea.ae
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Burger and Lobster Dubai Only a few things in life are as comforting as The Originals from Burger & Lobster; the mouthwatering signature staples on their menu. Looking to go back to basics, then look no further, with a simple yet irresistible menu featuring a juicy burger, fresh lobster and a lobster roll; Burger & Lobster will satisfy all your beverage and burger cravings in a fun, lively ambience. Bite into Burger and Lobster’s legendary dishes which include the 8OZ Original Burger, The Original Lobster and The Original Roll – these B&L classics are not to be missed. If you have ever dreamt of a hand-held meat heaven on a bun, their Original Burger is the one for you – a thick, juicy beef patty topped with lettuce, tomato, house made pickles and B&L’s secret burger sauce (which will keep you coming back for more!). Seafood lovers can’t miss out on THE ORIGINAL, a fresh 1.5LB Canadian lobster juicy and tender to taste. Depending on your level of hunger, have it grilled or steamed and submerge into divine claw
goodness while you savour this decadent serving of delicious opulence served with their famous lemon and garlic butter sauce alongside fries and salad. To get the best of both worlds, have their melt-inyour-mouth Original Roll prepared with overflowing chunks of claw meat tossed in creamy Japanese mayo and topped with chives, served in their signature buttery brioche roll. For those who want to try something a little more adventurous, there’s plenty of options on the mouthwatering menu. From a forkful of Malaysian Lobster Casserole to a bite of the delightfully spicy Hot Mama Burger, there’s a wide range of flavours on the menu just waiting to be washed down with a Salted Caramel milkshake or a pint of your favourite hop. Whether you fancy burgers, or lobsters, or both; the Burger & Lobster Originals are sure to satiate your lunchtime, cheeky weekend and post-work yearnings. Just make sure to plan a long walk back home! burgerandlobster.com
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15 The Original Burger 16 1-pound lobster 17 The contemporary exterior 18 The Original Lobster Roll
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Dynamic Allure Despite having arrived in 2013, the Wraith has remained one of the most groundbreaking RollsRoyce models to enter the market, introducing sportier elements while retaining the British carmaker’s trademark luxury. Durrah takes the Wraith to some of the most iconic luxury destinations in Bahrain to discover if it still has the Rolls magic it embodied on its arrival.
We first headed to Jumeirah Royal Saray in Manama’s Seef district, where guests can immerse themselves in a world of luxury. This coastal retreat offers stupendous views of the Arabian Sea, and is inspired by the traditions of a Royal Bahraini summer house. The architecture is a heavenly harmony of bespoke details with an elegant touch of contemporary world travel, surrounded by cascading fountains, vaulted halls and sweeping greenery. A testament to The Wraith’s effortless luxuriousness, it looked right at home. It should come as no surprise, as it was designed to be a masterpiece of elegant simplicity, exuding poise and the promise of dynamism. There is a sense that this car is ready to move with purpose on its driver’s command. Grace and beauty define the exterior
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presentation. The swept lines of the fastback, a style whose origins can be found in 1930s automotive design, most clearly signal its purposeful character, one which hints gently at the noir. Performance complements the drama of exterior styling. A shorter wheelbase, wider rear track, 624 bhp / 465kW derived from the twin turbo V12 and a 0-60 time of 4.4 seconds (0-62, 4.6 seconds) give expression to the car’s dynamic looks. But Wraith is no GT bruiser, it is every inch a refined and luxurious Rolls-Royce, a car where the sense of arrival and joy of the journey are as important as the canvas upon which it is drawn. Wraith’s debut featured the most intelligent drive train in a Rolls-Royce, including the application of ground-breaking technologies like Satellite Aided Transmission (SAT).
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02 01 The Wraith at Jumeirah Royal Saray 02, 05 Luxurious setting and elegant architecture of Jumeirah Royal Saray
03 The Wraith is no GT bruiser but it is every inch a refined and luxurious Rolls-Royce 04 Design details hint at agility, speed and performance
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Step inside Wraith’s coach doors and there is the feeling of going aboard a luxury yacht. It is a serene space for four occupants, who will be cocooned in a striking and contemporary interior furnished in beautiful materials, surrounded by tactile Phantomgrade leathers. Design details like the expansive Canadel Paneling and blood orange needle tips for speedometer and power reserve gauge hint further at agility, speed and performance. Look upwards however, and Rolls-Royce presents something more traditional – at least for the 21st century. Our next destination was a name in hospitality that is synonymous with luxury itself: The RitzCarlton, Bahrain. Set within 20 acres of lush gardens and golden sandy beaches on the Gulf of Arabia, this 245-room five-star city resort is one of the most elegant destinations in the Kingdom, and a place where guests can immerse themselves in
the local culture, enjoy extraordinary cuisine and explore the dazzling capital city of Manama, adding yet another level of indulgence to a collective range of extraordinary experiences. The resort also features 31 suites and 42 Club Level rooms as well as 23 well-appointed, seafront villas, each with three-bedrooms, its own private infinity pool, private beach access and 24-hour butler service. What is truly striking about the Wraith is that its odes to luxury are never overshadowed by its odes to performance, which is not an easy task to accomplish. After all, it develops 624 bhp, from a 6.6 litre twin-turbo V12, an engine that features direct petrol injection to maximize efficiency and reduce emissions. Should they wish to take advantage of the extraordinary power at their disposal, drivers may choose to be propelled from rest to 60 mph in just 4.4 seconds (0-62 mph, 4.6 seconds) and on to an electronically governed top speed of 155 mph.
“What is truly striking about the Wraith
is that its odes to luxury are never overshadowed by its odes to performance.”
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06 Simplicity, poise, and dynamism 07 The Wraith at Ritz-Carlton, Bahrain 08, 09 Gorgeous views and exquisite interior of Ritz-Carlton, Bahrain
December 2019
One of its most notable odes to both luxury and performance is that the origins of its fastback design lie in the streamlined design era of the 1930s. Initially popular in America, the word fastback soon came to define the spirit of adventure and dynamism that epitomized early and mid-20th century European sporting and GT cars. Rather than take inspiration from any one car, Wraith simply evokes the alluring pedigree of some of the most iconic designs from this influential era. In conclusion, we can confidently say that the Wraith has successfully retained its reputation as “the consummate gentleman’s Gran Turismo”, and will continue to serve as a contemporary homage to the era of effortless spacious coupés and grand tourers. rolls-roycemotorcars.com
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Handcrafted Luxury Four-door luxury combines with sharp driving experience and state-of-the-art technology as we test drive the all-new Bentley Flying Spur, the world’s most advanced four-door grand tourer. This is a special one. Upon first look, what impressed us about the new Bentley Flying Spur was that it’s the type of car where you can envision yourself as both behind the wheel, and in the back with your chauffeur driving you at the same time. It doesn’t lose any of its luxury charm either way. It offers the perfect fusion of performance-orientated agility and exclusive fourdoor, limousine-style comfort. Truly, the ultimate luxury Grand Touring sedan. With a bold and exciting road presence that is unmistakably Bentley, plus a luxurious cabin offering unrivalled levels of comfort and refinement, the new Flying Spur has been uniquely designed to satisfy both driver and passengers alike in a manner that no other car can do. New from the ground up, the four-door seamlessly integrates the very best in British craftmanship with cutting-edge, innovative features. While you can still see that it’s a Flying Spur, there are definitely a number of new design features that make it stand out from its
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predecessors. It showcases Bentley’s contemporary sculptural design language, yet it bears the hallmarks of the Crewe-based company’s unique DNA. Built on an entirely new platform, its athletic stance benefits from the front axle being moved forward to extend the wheelbase. The elegant, muscular proportions, especially at the rear, are highlighted through the marque’s latest generation cut-crystal effect LED matrix headlamps and new wrap-around rear lamps incorporating ‘B’ motifs. Stylish new 21 and 22inch wheel designs further enhance the Flying Spur’s personality and prowess. For the first time on a modern-day Flying Spur, the retractable Bentley ‘Flying B’ mascot is proudly displayed on the nose of the new model. Electronically operated, it rises from beneath a beautifully modern Bentley badge. Inside the sumptuous cabin, the design lines flow from the new wing-themed fascia to connect the front and rear passenger areas and create a completely integrated style. The interior is
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02 01 Bentley Flying Spur 02 Sumptuous interior 03 Elegant yet muscular proportions
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04 Cut-crystal effect LED matrix headlamps
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unmistakably Bentley, incorporating natural and authentic materials while also embracing a host of new technologies. The unique Bentley Rotating Display is the central feature of an exquisitely crafted dashboard. The HD instrument panel has the choice of 12.3inch digital touchscreen, beautiful analogue dials, or a digital-detox wood veneer finish. A detachable Touch Screen Remote Control is the centerpiece of the rear seat experience. This state-of-the-art unit can operate all the major functions, including the blinds, climate control and rear seat massage functions. It can also control the Flying Spur’s multi-configuration mood lighting system. Peerless comfort and refinement in the spacious cabin are enhanced by an extensive list of Single and Dual Veneer wood options. In both front and rear Bentley has introduced completely new-design fluted leather seats, which feature diamond quilting for the Mulliner Driving Specification. Threedimensional diamond quilted leather doors inserts are a world first. An optional panoramic glass sunroof stretches the full length of the roof, flooding the interior with light and bringing occupants closer to their Grand Touring experience. Three superlative audio systems, including a 16-speaker Bang & Olufsen system and a unique, 2,200W Naim system, are also available. The number of technology features in the new Flying Spur makes quite an impressively long list. Driver assistance systems include a Night Vision infra-red camera, Traffic Assist, Blind Sport Warning and a Head-Up Display. A raft of Advanced
Connectivity features, including an integrated Wi-Fi hotspot, help keep the driver in touch with a range of real-time functions and services. Thanks to a totally new and advanced aluminum and composite chassis, the Flying Spur is a technological tour-de-force. Electronic AllWheel Steering is used for the first time in a Bentley, combining with Active All-Wheel Drive and Bentley Dynamic Ride – the world’s first 48V electric anti-roll system - to deliver phenomenal handling and ride. Another major advance comes in the form of new, three-chamber air springs, which offer a much greater range of suspension adjustment between limousine-style ride comfort and sporting levels of body control. It allows the Flying Spur a breadth of capability not seen in the luxury segment before. With such incredible focus on luxury and technological elements, it’s easy to forget that the Flying Spur also boasts some of the most powerful performance figures in the market. At the heart of the Flying Spur is an enhanced version of Bentley’s 6.0-litre, twin-turbocharged W12, mated to an advanced dual-clutch eight-speed transmission for faster, smoother gear changes. The new TSI engine delivers 0-60mph in 3.7 seconds (0-100 km/h time of 3.8 seconds) and a top speed of 207mph (333 km/h). With a new platform, extra power, more design and technology features, the new Bentley Flying Spur undoubtedly lives up to its title as the world’s most advanced four-door grand touring sedan. bentleymotors.com
“Thanks to a totally new and advanced
aluminum and composite chassis, the Flying Spur is a technological tour-de-force.”
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December 2019
Driven by Luxury
The latest from the world’s top luxury automotive manufacturers.
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Ferrari Roma The new Ferrari Roma has been unveiled to the world’s media. The latest coupé from Maranello features timeless and sublimely refined design and has all the power and agility required to guarantee a unique driving experience. Its signature Italian styling is a contemporary reinterpretation of the carefree lifestyle of 1950s and ‘60s Rome, from which it takes its evocative name, Roma. Stylistically, the Ferrari Roma is characterised by clean and symbiotic forms. Its beautifully harmonious proportions and elegantly pure, balanced volumes are very much in line with the Ferrari mid-frontengined grand touring tradition of which the 250 GT Berlinetta Lusso and 250 GT 2+2 are the most iconic examples, and from which the car takes its inspiration. It embodies an extremely modern design language which underlines its authentic, refined styling. At the same time, its sleek lines retain the sporty vocation shared by all Ferraris. To guarantee best-in-class performance whilst still retaining the stylistic purity of its bloodline, Ferrari’s engineers developed several leading-edge technologies, most notably a mobile rear spoiler integrated into the rear screen designed to retain the car’s formal elegance when retracted and guarantee the downforce essential for the Ferrari Roma’s extraordinary performance by automatically deploying at high speeds. The Prancing Horse’s new 2+ coupé sports a V8 turbo engine that punches out 620 cv at 7,500 rpm, making it the most powerful in its segment. A member of the V8 family that has won the International Engine of the Year four years in a row, it features Variable Boost Management for instantaneous throttle response. With the adoption of Gasoline Particulate Filters, meticulous attention was also
focused on the sound of the exhaust system which has been completely redesigned, removing the silencers and introducing new bypass valves. The car’s new 8-speed dual-clutch gearbox is more compact and 6 kg lighter than its 7-speed predecessor. As well as reducing fuel consumption and emissions, shifts are faster and smoother which makes the car even more responsive on the open road, but also especially comfortable in town and during stop & start driving situations. The Ferrari Roma’s chassis benefits from the modular technology developed by Ferrari for its new generation models. Both bodyshell and chassis have been redesigned to incorporate the latest weight reduction and advanced production technologies. In fact, 70% of its components are entirely new. The mid-front-engined 2+ Ferrari Roma has the best weight/power ratio in its segment (2.37 kg/cv) which enhances handling dynamics and responsiveness. The Ferrari Roma features Ferrari’s cuttingedge vehicle dynamics systems, the most notable example being the Side Slip Control 6.0 (a first on a Ferrari GT car) with 5-position manettino and Ferrari Dynamic Enhancer which controls the yaw angle by hydraulically adjusting brake pressure at the callipers. The Ferrari Styling Centre’s approach for the Roma’s exterior revolves around a clean design and synergy between its various elements. The car is clothed in long, ultra-sleek lines that sweep back from the bonnet, highlighting the spare silhouette of the flanks and the set-back fastback cabin volume. To underscore the design’s minimalism, all unnecessary detailing has been removed, for example, a monolithic surface that is perforated
only where necessary enhances radiator cooling, creating a new radiator grille concept. A horizontal light strip that brings a sense of tension to the car’s circumference traverses the full-LED adaptive headlights. The wraparound rear screen incorporates an active aero device to preserve the purity of form, while the twin taillight assembly is set like a gem into the volume. For the Ferrari Roma’s cabin, the Ferrari Styling Centre designers developed a new formal approach that involved the creation of two separate cells, one each for driver and passenger. This evolution of the dual-cockpit concept embraces the entire cabin rather than just the dashboard, as was previously the case. The crafting of the interior took its lead from the complete redesign of the Human Machine Interface (HMI). This resulted in a major leap forward, starting with the new steering wheel, designed using the “eyes on the road, hands on the wheel” philosophy. This ensures the car’s main commands are actioned by haptic controls, meaning that the driver doesn’t need to move their hands from the wheel. The 16-inch digital instrument cluster provides all the necessary information, while the central display with an 8.4-inch vertical screen and a new passenger display are exceptionally intuitive and user-friendly. The new Ferrari key with “Comfort Access” function allows the driver to open the car by touching a button next to the new flush handle in the door. Adding to the appeal, the optional Ferrari Advanced Driver Assistance Systems, including adaptive Cruise Control, helps to ensure that all journeys are a relaxing experience. ferrari.com
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01 Ferrari Roma 02 Ultra-sleek rear 03 Timeless design 04 Stylish interior
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05 Unique rear profile 06 Power and performance 07 Impressive interior 08 Distinctive look
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Jeep Grand Cherokee Summit Seamlessly blending capability and luxury, it is easy to see why the Jeep Grand Cherokee is the most awarded SUV ever built. With a line-up of seven models to choose from, this off-road icon satisfies every driving requirement and whichever variant you choose, these vehicles bestow the confidence to handle any journey. All Grand Cherokees have a distinctive premium look, ensuring each trim level is recognisable at a glance. The front and rear profiles feature unique lower fascias for every trim level and a large, aerodynamic rear spoiler. The Grand Cherokee also retains Jeep’s classic seven-slot grille and trapezoidal wheel arches. The interior is equally impressive and the Uconnect 7-inch or available 8.4-inch touchscreen is immediately noticeable. Controls for radio and climate are found below the screen and have easily identifiable knobs and buttons. Following the centre stack down onto the console reveals a new leather-wrapped polystable shifter for the eight-speed transmission. All Grand Cherokee models also include standard paddle shifters mounted on the back of the steering wheel, which is designed and positioned to provide an optimal view of the gauge cluster that features a 7-inch, full-colour, customisable instrument display. Power and performance are defining characteristics of the Jeep Grand Cherokee. All engines are mated to a smooth eight-speed
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automatic transmission that enhances fuel economy while delivering quick acceleration and precise shifting. All models come with Selec-Terrain Traction Management Systems that help drivers to tackle different types terrain. Eco Mode further improves the impressive fuel economy. The Grand Cherokee is renowned for its on-road driving dynamics and quietness, thanks in part to its front and rear independent suspension. Variablerate rear springs deliver improved on-road handling and comfort that complements the vehicle’s offroad capability. The independent front and rear suspension systems include isolated cradles along with variable-rate rear springs to deliver improved on-road handling and comfort. The Jeep Grand Cherokee offers more than 70 advanced safety and security features - the highest in its class. Highlights include Forward Collision Warning with Crash Mitigation and Selec-Speed Control, Electronic Stability Control, Electronic Roll Mitigation, Blind-spot Monitoring with Rear Cross Path detection, Adaptive Cruise Control, trailer-sway control, front-row active head restraints, standard full-length side-curtain airbags and standard seatmounted side thorax airbags. The top-of-the-range Grand Cherokee Summit is available with a choice of 3.6-litre Pentastar V6 or 5.7-litre HEMI engines. It also features an acoustic windshield, laminated front door and rear
sunscreen acoustic laminated glass that helps to remove the distractions of traffic and wind noise to deliver a peaceful ride. The Trailhawk is the most capable factoryproduced Grand Cherokee. Models are available with 3.6-litre Pentastar V6 or 5.7-litre HEMI engines and are equipped with a host of standard off-road capability features, including Jeep’s Quadra-Drive II 4x4 system with rear Electronic Limited Slip Differential for all powertrains. The Grand Cherokee SRT combines SRT’s muscular sports styling with impressive performance courtesy of a 6.4-litre V8 with Fuel Saver Technology that delivers 465bhp and a top speed of 257 kph. Unique exterior and interior styling cues enhance the car’s distinct, high-performance image and set it apart from other sporting SUVs. The Grand Cherokee Trackhawk delivers 707bhp courtesy of its supercharged 6.2-litre V8 engine. It rides one inch lower than non-SRT Grand Cherokee models and is easily recognisable by its bodycoloured wheel flares, side sill cladding, and a sculpted hood with dual heat extractors. For over 75 years Jeep has been synonymous with freedom, adventure, authenticity, and passion - core values that are still deeply embedded in the DNA of every vehicle. Jeep.com
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09 Sleek and sophisticated 10 Refined and spacious cabin 11 Advanced LED lighting technology 12 Ample space in the back 13 Distinct design features
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Cadillac
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Cadillac is targeting the next generation of discerning motorists with its sleek and sophisticated XT4, a premium compact SUV with character in abundance. The new model is replete with advanced engineering and technology, but its distinctive design is what sets it apart from others in its class. Since the XT4 was developed around an exclusive compact SUV architecture, the designers were not constrained by the requirements of an existing platform, enabling them to fully unleash their creativity in the exterior and interior design. Viewed from any angle, the sharp creases on the sheet metal give the XT4 an unmistakable presence. The strong character line along the side of the vehicle is punctuated by a sloping roof lending the XT4 a sleek, sporty appearance. Cadillac’s high-performance V-Series models inspire the front end, which features a gloss black mesh grille. Additional styling details include gloss black window moldings and alloy wheel choices that are exclusive to the variant. Luxury and Premium Luxury models boast grilles with bright metallic accents, satin aluminum window moldings, and satin chromeaccented door handles, creating a truly distinct look. Details such as advanced LED lighting technology at the front and rear enhance the XT4’s
exterior design. The vertical L-shaped LED lighting signature upfront is stretched horizontally over the fenders, featuring integrated cooling vents for an added dose of aggression. The unique daylight running lights, coupled with the imposing grille, emphasise the model’s confident stance. The same attention to detail is apparent at the rear, which boasts vertically stretched L-shaped LED taillamps and an integrated roof spoiler. Sporty dual exhaust tips complete the look, making for an equally striking rear design. The bold styling cues continue inside, with the refined and spacious cabin echoing the exterior design themes. The cabin exemplifies comfort, giving the XT4 an optimal balance between aesthetics and refinement. Taking centre stage in the interior is Cadillac’s high-resolution infotainment display, integrated seamlessly into the dashboard. The theme carries on with the placement of the buttons that control the main features of the vehicle – easily accessible with a sophisticated angular placement. The XT4’s distinct design makes it one of the most eye-catching vehicles in its class without sacrificing practicality or convenience. cadillac.com
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01 Polished look 02 Luxurious interior
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King of the Night With the eagerly anticipated launch of the new Black Badge Cullinan, Rolls-Royce completes its bespoke Black Badge line-up, bringing more power, refinement, and luxury to a younger generation of discerning customers. At the Geneva Motor Show in March 2016, Rolls-Royce presented a new generation of superluxury, the Black Badge. The highly dynamic and distinctive vehicles attracted new customers to the marque, reassured by Rolls-Royce in their bold aesthetic and uncompromising lifestyle requirements. Black Badge reflects the desires of a distinct group of Rolls-Royce clients who take risks, break rules, and build success on their own terms. Before launching Black Badge, the idea of creating a product that would satisfy this subversive cohort – that is highly dynamic and wilfully rebellious in aesthetic – caused a great deal of internal debate. However, once the marque’s designers, engineers, and craftspeople began pursuing this dramatic alter ego, it became clear that these motor cars could not only exist comfortably beneath this revered and historic brand but they would define a new space within the super-luxury market. In this spirit, the time has come for Rolls-Royce’s boldest and darkest expression of Black Badge yet. The King of the Night, Black Badge Cullinan.
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The first media test drive for the Black Badge Cullinan took place in Dubai and the digital marketing content was also shot in the region, demonstrating just how important the Middle East market is to the iconic marque. Home to some of the world’s most discerning motoring enthusiasts, the UAE in particular is one of the largest markets for Rolls-Royce globally. Created to satisfy overwhelming demand from younger and more adventurous clients, Cullinan in its silver badge guise, was launched to global acclaim in 2018, immediately becoming the world’s pinnacle super-luxury SUV. Combining luxury in its purest form with genuine practicality and off-road capability, Cullinan delivered on the promise of an experience that is Effortless, Everywhere. Now, it is time for the Black Badge Cullinan to conquer new urban frontiers. It is anticipated that many will opt for the Black Badge’s signature black paintjob. Multiple layers of paint and lacquer are applied and hand-polished at least 10 times at the home of Rolls-Royce in Goodwood, West Sussex, giving it the most comprehensive surface finish process applied to a solid paint colour.
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“Now, it is time for the Black Badge
Cullinan to conquer new urban frontiers.” 03 Imposing exterior design 04 The Double-R badge
The depth and intensity of Black Badge Cullinan’s coachwork serves as the perfect canvas upon which to throw a contrasting hand-painted Coachline into stark relief. On the front-end lies the defining expression of Black Badge, the Spirit of Ecstasy mascot, which has taken many forms throughout the marque’s history and is presented in a high gloss black chrome finish, creating the darkest Black Badge yet. The ‘Double R’ badge on the front, side, and aft invert to become silver-on-black, while chrome surfaces such as the front grille surround, side frame finishers, boot handle, boot trim, lower air inlet finisher, and exhaust pipes are darkened. The vertical grille bars appear black but remain polished, reflecting the blackened surfaces surrounding them. The overall effect artfully simplifies and enlarges the vehicle’s exterior design graphics, emphasising its imposing proportions and confident stance. This is further dramatised by all-new 22-inch forged alloy wheels, reserved exclusively for Black Badge Cullinan. Designed in the Black Badge house style, the gearlike graphic emphasises the model’s power while also recalling an infinitely occurring lemniscate. The gloss black and polished design also creates the perfect stage for the marque’s first ever coloured brake caliper. The high gloss red paint has been specifically developed to withstand the rigours of elevated temperatures generated by the model’s uprated braking system while still offering a perfectly smooth finish. Starlight Headliner has joined historical Rolls-Royce iconography such as the Spirit of Ecstasy, Pantheon
Grille, and ‘Double R’ monogram. Its presence in Black Badge Cullinan intensifies the cabin’s ambience by casting a low light over the leather seats. Presented in fine black leather, handwoven with 1,344 fibre optic lights, it is a reflection of the night sky and incorporates eight white shooting stars that dart at random over the front occupants. For Cullinan, Rolls-Royce’s Colour and Trim designers created a bold new leather colour, Forge Yellow, to offer as part of the brand’s curated collection. As with all leather colours, this can be commissioned for the car’s Viewing Suite or incorporated into the design of a highly Bespoke Recreation Module, tailored to each client’s specification. There an no changes to the engine’s ample internal capacity, however, the flexibility of the twinturbo V12 has been exploited to generate an extra 29PS creating a total output of 600PS. The sense of a single, infinite gear has also been sensationalised with the addition of a further 50NM of torque, bringing the total to a 900NM. Black Badge Cullinan benefits from a Bespoke transmission and throttle treatment. The ZF automatic transmission 8-speed gearbox and both front and rear wheels work collaboratively to adjust levels of engagement depending on the throttle and steering inputs. Changes to suspension components and settings add to the suite of dynamic technologies that ensure an appropriate balance between dynamism and refinement. rolls-roycemotorcars.com 04
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05 05 Ample space 06 Dynamic and refined
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December 2019
Cultural Centerpiece Campbell Gray Living Amman unveils gravity-defying sculpture ‘Reflection’ by Belgian Artist ‘Zivo’.
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Campbell Gray Living Amman, the award-winning luxury mixed-use development in Amman’s new downtown district of Abdali, has once again boosted its cultural capital by unveiling a bold new artwork in the centre of its boutique retail space, The Valley. The sculpture, entitled REFLECTION, represents the strength and unity of the family throughout the turbulence and adversities of life in today’s everchanging world and was created by Belgian-born, France-based artist Zivo. The Valley has already cemented its place as the upcoming centre for Amman’s flourishing art scene, with a number of high-profile exhibitions and displays taking place at its gallery, The Corner. With the unveiling of REFLECTION, Campbell Gray Living Amman is moving culture into focus, by installing the 5 metre high gravity-defying sculpture as a centrepiece for the entire retail space, where it will be seen by thousands of people. As its title suggests, the sculpture is a reflection upon family, unity and balance, encouraging contemplation and evoking feelings of happiness and optimism in the viewer. Three figures, a family, standing united, strong and grounded on an undulating, perfectly balanced inverted semi-sphere, depicting the ever-changing world we live in. “This sculpture is a project extremely close to my heart – working with Zivo to help create this piece was one of the most inspiring moments of my entire life,” said Saad Audeh, Chairman of Campbell Gray Hotels. “This piece promotes unity, family values and the importance of staying
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together through tough times. I hope it will inspire people and in some small way to bring about a brighter future. With the International Day of Peace approaching, now is the time for us to come together and build a better world.” The sculpture is now open to the public and can be found in the centre of The Valley in Abdali. The Valley is home not only to great and empowering art, but also boutique retail locations and gourmet restaurants, such as the newly-opened hangar dining concept. campbellgrayliving.com
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MUST HAVE - MEN
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My Wish List The latest and most exclusive luxury items for men
The Unnamed Society Revolver Designed and manufactured in-house by L’EpÊe1839, this revolver features a power reserve of 8 days from a single barrel, 142 components movement and 17 jewels. The frame is made from nickel and palladium plated brass, and it is sandblasted with satin-finishing. thewatchpages.com
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Jonathan Adler Animalia Coasters Go wild with Jonathan Adler’s Animalia Coasters. Crafted from high-fired porcelain and finished with gleaming gold luster, this set of four features a menagerie of fave safari creatures. They come packaged in a nifty gift box, and they make a perfect hostess present (or pick-me-up for yourself). jonathanadler.com
Lotus X Hope Track Bike Lotus’ consultancy division has teamed with Hope Technology to build a new track bike for the Great Britain Cycling Team. Specifically, Lotus designed and built the unique front fork and handlebars from carbon fiber composites, testing and iterating in secret to maximize strength while reducing weight. Making its debut this at the Minsk-Arena velodrome in Belarus, the hope is for the bike to be ridden by the team at the 2020 Tokyo games. hopetech.com
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MB&F L’EPEE 1839 T-REX The 11th collaboration between MB&F and Switzerland’s premier clockmaker L’Épée 1839, this T-Rex features a minimalist clock-face of Murano glass and steel, suspended between two jointed legs that end in taloned feet. Two slim steel hands arch outwards from the centre of the Murano glass dial, indicating the hours and minutes. mbandf.com
Berluti Table Football Set Designed in collaboration with Bonzini – a manufacturer with 60 years of experience in games tables – Berluti’s table football set is covered in the emblematic Venezia leather, and entirely handmade in France. Available on special order, the table football set has several features designed exclusively for this collaboration: a graphite grey playing surface, hand-polished players and tokens, and aluminium handles. berluti.com
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Madrid Skateboards Back to The Future Marty Mcfly Valterra Reissue Marty McFly’s ‘Valterra’ Skateboard Official Replica by Madrid Skateboards features revised artwork and hardware from 2 previous releases. It also includes a tiny nuclear symbol hidden in the splatter pattern to distinguish these new boards from both previous releases. fullcircledistribution.com
OMA Ironic Speaker The OMA Ironic speaker is an open baffle type, cast from a special kind of iron, with no enclosure. The hypo eutectic gray iron (high graphite content) used in this speaker is employed in high technology applications such as photolithography machines for silicon chip production, where resonance or vibration must be reduced to an absolute minimum. The complex form of the speaker derives from quadratic diffusers universally used in studio and broadcast applications. oswaldsmillaudio.com
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December 2019
Montegrappa Mohammed Bin Rashid Space Centre Fountain Pen To commemorate the UAE’s first manned mission to space, Montegrappa has launched a unique fountain pen commissioned for The Mohammed Bin Rashid Space Centre, celebrating Hazzaa AlMansoori, the first Emirati Astronaut in space. The pen, shaped in the form of a rocket, features the UAE flag on the barrel, the logo of MBRSC on the cap and a portrait of HH Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum on a solid gold nib. montegrappa.me
Miansai 14k Gold Grill Set This 14k solid gold 4-piece Grill Set includes a spatula, fork, knife and tongs - because nothing says “summer” like a cookout. The base metal is 14 karat polished solid gold. miansai.com
Supreme Rimowa Suitcases Rimowa, the LVMH-owned German maker of the luxurious luggage seen in airports all over the world, is on a hot streak, and superstar streetwear label Supreme collaborate on a new collection of suitcases so distinct you’ll never have trouble spotting them on the luggage carousel. While their initial outing had a logo-dominant, somewhat minimalist look, this latest collection takes a different approach that riffs on a graphic spiderweb motif first seen in Supreme’s fall 2016 collection. supremenewyork.com
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+973 77033333
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17/12/2019 8/17/2016 10:26:30 AM15:12
MUST HAVE - WOMEN
My Wish List The latest and most exclusive luxury items for women
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L’occitane Advent Calendar This year, L’occitane’s Advent calendar is bursting with products for the face and body, as well as some of their latest new launches. The Advent calendar looks like a book of myths and legends. It tells of the incredibly rich and fascinating ecosystem that exists in Provence, with a particular focus on the almond tree. Through a story that begins in 1956 and continues to the present day, it tells of how L’OCCITANE took the decision to help reintroduce this tree into Provence. loccitane.com
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Rimowa Original Twist Luggage Available in aluminium accented with one of three eye-catching coloured trims, brown, red or blue, the RIMOWA Original Twist is a sophisticated blend of iconic luxurious materials meticulously engineered and thoughtfully combined to make a distinct statement. Each colored element is expertly matched, from the leather handle to the sealing rubber and the lock housing. rimowa.com
Gucci Star Eye XL Demitasse Cup and Saucer Crafted from black Richard Ginori porcelain, the demitasse cup is introduced in an XL size, as a set of two. The teacup and saucer are printed with special details inspired by the House collections, resembling intricate architectural details with House codes sprinkled throughout. “Maison de l’amour” appears on the saucer, surrounding the Gucci bee, while at the interior of the cup is a special hidden detail: the Star Eye. gucci.com
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MKS Jewellery Fragrances Taking sentimental value to a new dimension, MKS has created an experience for the senses with special edition fragrances, resulting in a series of eau de parfum and scented candles made in small batches in Grasse. Holding on to the running jewellery theme, sentiment, each fragrance tells personal stories of H.H. Sheikha Mariam that women from different walks of life relate to: stories of youth, of love, of communication, of generations and of history. mksjewellery.com
Tiffany & Co. Holiday Catalogue Tiffany & Co. gives new meaning to “the more, the merrier” with the ultimate holiday catalogue featuring 12 one-of-a-kind gifts and experiences—a first in the company’s 182-year history. The catalogue features a curated selection of the best of the best, with everything from a one-of-a-kind custom high jewelry design to an unforgettable adventure in Kenya and new jewelry, collections and gift ideas to make it a happy holiday for everyone. tiffany.com
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Miansai 18k Gold Party Animal In celebration of Cinco De Mayo, fiesta till ya siesta with the newest addition to Mainsai’s Figure Collection. The Party Animal is a solid 18k gold piùata that rains 50 diamonds- a much better alternative to candy. It has a base metal of 18 karat solid yellow gold and features 50 Diamonds. miansai.com
Dolce&Gabbana Dolls Dolce&Gabbana creates four special Dolls, that will let the smaller ones dream and play, transporting the mothers as well into this magic. Creative masterpieces that interpret the identity codes of the brand: beauty, elegance, attention to details that tell a story about passion and love of fashion. The Dolls are around 48 cm tall with a sweet and most expressive face, thanks to the delicate touch of a specialized team that drew their features using colour palettes selected by Dolce&Gabbana Make-up Artist, evoking the aesthetic codes of the brand. dolcegabbana.com
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Bang & Olufsen Beoplay A1 Portable Bluetooth speaker Bang & Olufsen’s ‘Beoplay A1’ speaker fits in the palm of your hand, meaning it will take up minimal space in a weekend bag or carry-on. Made from high quality antiquerose aluminum, it’s splash and dust resistant and has a powerful built-in microphone to make voice calls. It can play 24 hours of music before needing a charge. bang-olufsen.com
Trussardi Casa Greyhound Cushion Coated in rust-colored pony, the new pillow from the home collection warms up the Holiday season combining a glamorous and familiar allure. The laser engraved Greyhound, an expression of the brand’s identity, reveals the personality of an item that will not pass unnoticed. luxurylivinggroup.com
Rosenthal meets Versace Scented Candles An elegant series of candles featuring the most iconic Versace motifs on one-of-a-kind porcelain: Medusa Gala, Vanity, Medusa, Le Jardin de Versace, Les Étoiles de la Mer, La Scala del Palazzo, Prestige Gala and I love Baroque. Stylish accents with refined details and elaborate craftsmanship give that unmistakable Versace touch on fine natural wax candles with luxurious fragrance that shine brilliantly over 60 hours. versace.com
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Formula 1 Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix 2020 The Formula 1 Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix 2020 is once again set to be the hottest ticket in town. Secure your seats today and don’t miss out on the festival of F1 and world class entertainment. Early Bird tickets are now available for a limited time only for the highly anticipated race weekend, taking place March 19 to 22. The Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix is set to mark the second of a record 22 rounds on the 2020 FIA Formula 1 World Championship. The race weekend is set to include not only Formula 1 racing, but also plenty of other action in the FIA Formula 2 Championship, which will be holding its seasonopener, plus so much more. There will also be loads of off-track fun and family entertainment, headlined by unforgettable live concerts featuring some of the music industry’s biggest international artists. Tickets can be purchased on bahraingp.com or by calling the BIC Hotline on +973 17 450000 or visiting the BIC stand at Bahrain City Centre. bahraingp.com
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Gulf Construction Expo 2020 Gulf Construction Expo (formerly called gulfBID expo) will be ‘Building for the Future’ through the definitive showcase for the Construction and Building Materials sector. This international Expo for construction machinery, building material and construction vehicles — provides the construction sector in the GCC with a professional platform for networking, investment and the exchange of ideas and information. Gulf Construction exhibitors take advantage of Bahrain’s strategic location as a competitive gateway, underpinned by a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) with the USA, makes it the ideal venue for Gulf Construction Expo. Saudi Arabia, the region’s most important strategic market and industrial powerhouse, is just 25 km away – providing industrialists, factory managers and industry professionals from the kingdom with the opportunity to visit the show with ease and convenience. Visitors from Saudi Arabia are the significant proportion of the total number of visitors to Gulf Construction Expo. The growing construction demands for Qatar and Kuwait and the lower Gulf countries of UAE and Oman are increasingly integrated in terms of investment and comparative cost advantages, providing tremendous business opportunities. gulfconstructionexpo.com
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