VOLUME 13 ISSUE 01 AUTUMN 2020
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WELCOME
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First Impression
A word from the editor-in-chief
September 2020
Editorial Editor in Chief Khalid Ahmed Juman Deputy Editor in Chief Ahmed Khunji Art Director Ronald Fuentes Features Editor Tariq Khonji Editors Amy Vaya Mohammed Hassan Charlie Holding Marketing and Sales International Media Sales Director Hussain Al Zaimoor Production Production Support Venkatesan J. S IT support Digital Manager Hussain Al Anjawi
DURRAH LUXURY MAGAZINE PO Box 13990, Manama, Kingdom of Bahrain T. +973 77077777 F. +973 17226555
The impact of the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) has been felt by everyone, and the luxury industry is no exception. Indeed, headlines about how brands were coping with the effects dominated the news for a while. So, does this mean it’s the end of luxury? Not at all! What we are witnessing is more of an adjustment than an ending. The luxury sector is adapting, and it’s doing a great job of it so far. This could be due to several factors, including being prepared for the digital future. The luxury world already benefited from having embraced digital transformation over the past few years. With the temporary closure of brick and mortar stores due to the pandemic, many brands simply accelerated those digital strategies, which were already in place, to help maintain their sales levels. Some of the most prestigious names started offering virtual and augmented reality experiences to complement their high-end products. Gucci, for example, recently unveiled a new virtual shopping experience called ‘Gucci Live’ that helps to recreate the personal experience of in-store shopping through a video service, while operating out of a dedicated set in a service center, Gucci 9, in Florence. It’s the first of its kind in luxury and sets an example of just how resilient and agile this
industry can be when faced by major challenges. So this is the “new normal” for the luxury world. There will undoubtedly be changes that both the brands and consumers must get used to over time, however, you can be rest assured that one thing will never change: Durrah will always remain committed to providing high quality content to its readers. As you have come to expect from us by now, this is yet another issue that truly explores the best offerings from the luxury world. Throughout these pages, we interview the crème-de-la-crème of the luxury watch and jewellery industries, gaining insight into the complex workings of the most prestigious brands. And of course, Durrah wouldn’t be complete without its picks of the most desirable items from the world of luxury. Fashion, fragrances, designer bags and shoes, and much more are in store for our dear readers.
COVER IMAGE Classic, reimagined 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 and stay safe! ISSN 2210-1322
DURRAHMAGAZINE
Khalid Ahmed Juman Editor in Chief
www.durrah.bh e.mail: info@durrah.bh
SAKSME.COM
STELLA McCARTNEY
ONLY AT SAKS
City Centre Bahrain
CONTENTS
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CONTENTS
September 2020
Volume 13 Issue 01 Autumn 2020
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Editor’s Letter
MJ by Mayyan Jaffar
First Impression
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The King of Peace
HM King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa, the King of Bahrain, and the Kingdom’s continued message of peace, tolerance, and co-existence
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The Retro Experience Bahrain’s first drive-in cinema
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An Everlasting Legacy
Interview with YK Almoayyed & Sons Chairman, Farouk Almoayyed
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The Art of Empowerment
Interview with artist Nabeela Al Khayer
Celebrating la joie de vivre
038
‘Extraordinary Every day’ Jewellery Tiffany T1
The Hyper Horology Experience
Interview with Roger Dubuis CEO, Nicola Andreatta
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The Cult Watch
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Pasha de Cartier
The latest collection from Al Zain Jewellery
High Time to Thrill
The Arabdeco Phenomenon
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Legacy of Craftsmanship 70 Years of Devji Aurum
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OMEGA’s new Seamaster Diver 300M James Bond Numbered Edition
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Heritage of Innovation
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History of TUDOR
Interview with Rolls-Royce Head of Whispers, Verena Masters
World of Time
Inspiring Greatness, at Home
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The new Lange 1 Time Zone from A. Lange & Sohne
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110 096 112
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Audemars Piguet’s partnership with Ralph & Russo
Unisex perfumes
One&Only Heritage Collection by Jay Ahr
Matched to Perfection
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Practical and Poetic
The new Perpetual Twin models from Chopard
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Playing with Depth Hublot’s Big Bang Sang Bleu II
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Top of the Wave
The three new models of the Ulysse Nardin DIVER collection
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Fresh and Bold Perfumes for men
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Alluring Fragrances Perfumes for women
Sophisticated Scents
Destination-Inspired Design
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The latest in luxury cosmetics
The latest in ladies’ brand name bags
Beauty Trends
Exquisite Style
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The Biyan Fall Winter 2020 collection
The latest in designer brand women’s shoes
Feminine Strength
Stepping in Style
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The Giorgio Armani 20/21 Fall-Winter Womenswear Collection
The latest in luxury sunglasses
Velvet Notes
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Unique Couture
Mae Paris’ Spring Summer 2020 Collection
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Evolution of Heritage
Berluti’s Autumn Winter 2020 Men’s Collection
Shades of Elegance
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Eclectic Dreams
Interview with artist Zaina El Said
CONTENTS
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Modern Art Studio and Rolex boutique
The best hotels in the world
Interview with artist Mohsen Ghareeb
75 Years of Luxury
Redefining Hospitality
Artisan of Letters
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Luxurious shopping destinations
The best spas in the world
Luxury items for men
Boutique Experience
Serene Treatments
Must Haves for Men
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The environmentally sound art of Gabriel Dishaw
Interview with Chef Gaston Silva Herrera
Luxury items for women
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Top dining locations
Book review of ‘The Guardians’
The Upcycling Sculptor
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Light and Sea
Settantotto, the new flagship of Cranchi Yachts
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Small Slice of Heaven Discover Lausanne
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All Aboard
The Vietage Train
Gastronomic Delights Refined Taste
Must Haves for Women True Devotion
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195
Genesis G90 2020
Formula 1 Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix 2020 and Rolex Sakhir Grand Prix 2020
Refined Elegance
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Driving In Style
Reviews of the latest luxury brands in the automotive industry
Final Pearl
The all new EQC. Enjoy Electric. Discover the open road. The EQC has a driving range of up to 417 km, meaning you can go further on a single charge. Coming soon to Bahrain!
@alhaddadmotors
Showroom WhatsApp
+973 17785454 +973 32300076
Kingdom of Bahrain marketing@alhaddad-mercedesbenz.com
SPECIAL FEATURE
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THE KING of Peace Despite its small size, Bahrain has been able to embrace mosques, ma’atams, churches, shrines, and various temples within its lands. Its diversity has been praised by citizens, residents, and visitors alike. Under the leadership of His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa, the King of Bahrain, it continues to spread its message of peace, tolerance, and co-existence.
01 HM King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa, King of Bahrain, and HRH Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, Crown Prince, Deputy Supreme Commander and First Deputy Prime Minister
Since his accession to the throne nearly 22 years ago, His Majesty started implementing reforms that continue to benefit all the people of the Kingdom to this day. His directives have been essential in helping maintain the comprehensive development and pioneering achievements of the Kingdom at all levels, under the rule of law and based on a cultural heritage and a community in which all people coexist. Built on solid foundations that guarantee rights and freedoms, the Kingdom seeks to promote peace between all people and cultures. With the support of His Royal Highness Prince Khalifa bin Salman Al Khalifa, Prime Minister; and His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, Crown Prince, Deputy Supreme
Commander and First Deputy Prime Minister, the Kingdom continues to add to its long list of accomplishments, which include guaranteeing respect for human rights and the fundamental and personal rights of all citizens. This is reflected in the Kingdom’s accession to 24 international human rights conventions, most notably: the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, International Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Racial Discrimination (1990), Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women (2002), Convention on the Rights of the Child, Convention Against Torture, International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, and International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights.
His Majesty’s vision also strengthened the Kingdom’s embrace of freedom of religion and the right to practice religious rituals and celebrations without any government restrictions. This is evident in Bahrain having the highest number of mosques in the world in relation to its population and size. It also has 110 churches, of which 19 are registered churches, and one Jewish Synagogue built in the center of Manama in 1930. These establishments serve as monuments to how the people of Bahrain enjoy peaceful co-existence between all religious communities and beliefs. His Majesty has always been keen on promoting rights and freedoms in other areas as well. Under his guidance, the Kingdom has preserved its current advanced status in the field
SPECIAL FEATURE
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of combatting trafficking in persons, where it was ranked among Tier 1 status in the report of the Department of State of the United States of America, becoming the first country in the MENA region to record this achievement. The Kingdom has also won, for the 3rd time in its history, membership in the Human Rights Council for the period from 2019 to 2021. Bahrain has also been an active supporter of arts, literature, science, humanities, and other fields that have helped nurture coexistence within its local population and enhance its relationship with the world. The Kingdom of Bahrain has long been considered a successful model for tolerance, coexistence, and love between different cultural identities and belief systems. Tolerance as practiced
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here is an everyday matter. It does not mean the need to subjugate ones’ beliefs or integrate it into one single component but respecting the privacy and identity of each person. It means appreciating all the unique and diverse sects that make up the country. A key component of its societal fabric, the Kingdom has always placed high importance on peaceful coexistence, a crucial element for the security of any community. This helped create a vibrant society that is rich in cultural, ethnic, and religious diversity, its people coexisting in a civilized atmosphere of tolerance, acceptance, and mutual respect. Under His Majesty’s leadership, the Kingdom looks towards a bright future as it remains committed to good-neighborliness, mutual respect, and promotion of peace among all people.
02, 03, 04 HM the King in attendance at various ceremonies and events
“His Majesty’s vision also strengthened the
Kingdom’s embrace of freedom of religion and the right to practice religious rituals and celebrations without any government restrictions.”
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SPECIAL EVENTS
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The Retro Experience Choosing the scenic Bahrain Bay as its venue, Bahrain’s first drive in cinema was launched in July. Offering an exceptional outdoor movie experience while maintaining the social distancing and safety measures implemented throughout the Kingdom, DriveIn can accommodate 100 cars per show.
The new cinema was inaugurated by the Minister of Industry, Commerce and Tourism, HE Zayed Al Zayani at a ceremony organized by Mukta A2 Cinemas and Pico International. “Knives Out” was the first film screened at the opening of the cinema. Moviegoers can enjoy films spanning a multitude of genre from the comfort of their own cars along with food, beverages, and entertainment while maintaining social distancing. Tickets, which can be purchased online via wanasatime.com, are sold per car at a maximum of 4 people. They also include a generous food and beverage package with added gourmet options such as hotdogs, burgers, nachos, and French fries. Patrons can enjoy the movie’s soundtrack through the comfort of their own car by tuning in to their car stereos. Along with a series of film nights, there will
be pre-show events prior to the movies, such as live music events and special performances on weekend nights. The Drive-in cinema concept, which is already popular in North America and Europe, came as an avenue for public entertainment following the closure of cinemas due to the spread of the novel coronavirus (COVID-19). Pico Bahrain designed and produced entire DriveIn environment with a retro style set reminiscent of the old drive-in cinemas, but added a contemporary touch. It also incorporated all COVID-19 safety measures including contactless payments and face masks. The venture will continue till January 2021 as the cooler months at the end of the year would bring in more people. Currently, 2 movies are screened every evening.
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01 DriveIn, the first cinema concept of its kind in the Kingdom 02 HE Minister of Industry, Commerce and Tourism, Zayed Al Zayani at the inauguration ceremony 03, 04, 05, 06 Some of the attendance and attractions at DriveIn
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September 2020
“Pico Bahrain designed and produced entire
DriveIn environment with a retro style set reminiscent of the old drive-in cinemas, but added a contemporary touch.�
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UP CLOSE AND PERSONAL
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An Everlasting Legacy The Chairman of the YK Almoayyed & Sons (YKA), Mr. Farouk Almoayyed is a pioneer in every sense of the word, having played an essential role in the development of Bahrain’s business landscape. The iconic entrepreneur reveals the role his father played in shaping his business acumen and shares his proudest achievements over his career which spans more than half a century. 01 YK Almoayyed & Sons Chairman, Farouk Almoayyed
YKA HAS BEEN IN BUSINESS FOR 80 YEARS AND THE BUSINESSES UNDER ITS UMBRELLA ARE SOME OF THE MOST DECORATED IN BAHRAIN’S HISTORY. THEY CONTINUE TO GARNER MORE ACCOLADES TODAY, THE MOST RECENT BEING NBB WINNING THE ‘MIDDLE EAST’S BEST BANK TRANSFORMATION’ AND ‘BAHRAIN’S BEST BANK’ AWARDS. AFTER SO MANY YEARS, DO THESE WINS STILL COME AS A PLEASANT SURPRISE TO YOU? OR HAS IT BECOME WHAT TO EXPECT? Awards always come as a pleasant surprise. They are the culmination of the tremendous efforts exerted over the past years in our journey to transform NBB into a solid, flexible, and agile entity that can adapt to the market dynamics. This is what solidifies our position as the bank of the future.
SPEAKING OF THE FUTURE, THE WORLD IS EMBRACING TECHNOLOGY NOW MORE THAN EVER. WITH EVERYTHING BECOMING EXTREMELY DIGITIZED, WHAT PRODUCTS
OR SERVICES HAS NBB INTRODUCED TO REMAIN AHEAD OF THE COMPETITION? NBB recognizes that every aspect of the banking experience must be modernized to ensure that the experience offered to customers remains the most cutting edge. We were able to revamp our internal operations to ensure that they were fully equipped to support a digital future, including the upgrading of the core banking system, improvements to IT infrastructure and systems, as well as the adoption of solutions to better utilize and analyze data, alongside a number of other technological enhancements. The Bank began investing heavily in the latest technologies to stay ahead of the curve, which in turn facilitated its growth from a basic banking institution to a powerhouse of possibility. NBB was able to achieve a significant milestone as the first bank in the MENA region to roll out Open Banking Solutions to increase customer transparency, efficiency, and enhance customer experience. We have also introduced Video Teller Machines (VTM), making NBB the first bank to issue cards,
statements and IBAN letter printing through this service. All cards were also upgraded to leverage Near Field Communication (NFC) technology which enabled contactless payments, making NBB the first bank in Bahrain to enable all Points of Sale to accept the newly introduced service. Additionally, NBB’s self-service Cash Deposit Machines (CDM) have significantly lowered customer transaction time by enabling multi-currency bulk deposits on a real-time basis, culminating in NBB expanding its network of ATMs by 30% in 2019 alone, resulting in a network of ATMS spread across a total of 102 locations across the Kingdom, the biggest network in the country.
OUTSIDE OF BANKING, YOU ARE ALSO INVESTED IN THE EDUCATION SECTOR, BEING THE FOUNDER AND CHAIRMAN OF BOTH AHLIA UNIVERSITY AND IBN KHULDOON NATIONAL SCHOOL. DO YOU SEE YOUR INVOLVEMENT IN IT MORE AS AN INVESTOR OR AS A FATHER AND GRANDFATHER?
UP CLOSE AND PERSONAL
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September 2020
“Bahrain’s greatest capital is its people and their talents, and the education sector is a beacon to nurture this talent and help it achieve its desired future goals.” The education sector is very important to me as a father but it’s far more important to me as a Bahraini. I truly believe that the future of our Kingdom will depend on its people and their level of education. Bahrain’s greatest capital is its people and their talents, and the education sector is a beacon to nurture this talent and help it achieve its desired future goals. That is the essence behind the establishment of both of these esteemed educational institutions, where at the time we found a gap in quality education providers for our children more than 40 years ago. It was an opportunity to make a change and establish a school with international standards that can provide the level of education required for this day and age.
THE NEW IKNS EXPANSION PROJECT WAS SLATED FOR SEPTEMBER OF THIS YEAR. HAVE THOSE PLANS BEEN AFFECTED BY THE CURRENT GLOBAL SITUATION? WHAT MEASURES WERE TAKEN TO PROTECT THE SAFETY OF STUDENTS AND STAFF? The expansion project schedule was affected just like many other projects due to the pandemic. With ongoing workforce limitations, the project faced some delays, but seems to be getting back on track as contractors and developers adjust to the current situation. The school has implemented all the necessary measures to ensure the protection of its students and staff from the coronavirus, which has significantly contained its impact on our overall plans.
WHAT DO YOU THINK OF BAHRAIN’S RESPONSE TO THE PANDEMIC SO FAR? WAS IT ENOUGH TO LIMIT THE IMPACT ON BUSINESSES IN THE KINGDOM? Bahrain’s leadership and government’s response to the pandemic was timely and excellent. The financial package that was provided to those who were affected was a lifesaver for all businesses, particularly for Bahraini employees. Unfortunately, the same can’t be said about the level of awareness of some of the people in taking care of their health
and following the instructions provided by global health organizations and the government to help limit the spread of the virus. I must commend all the medical staff serving on the frontlines for their devotion and hard work.
COMPARED TO OTHER GCC COUNTRIES, WHAT DO YOU BELIEVE IS BAHRAIN’S STRONGEST BUSINESS FIELD AT THE MOMENT? Bahrain and its people have many attributes that make us truly unique. We have an openminded society with a welcoming attitude. It’s no wonder that it’s the destination of choice for tourists and entertainment for people from all over the world.
GOING BACK IN TIME TO THE EARLY DAYS OF YKA AND ITS FOUNDER, YOUR FATHER MUST HAVE HAD TO OVERCOME SOME CHALLENGES THAT WERE SIMILAR TO YOURS. HE ALSO HAD TO BALANCE BEING A BUSINESSMAN WITH BEING THE HEAD OF A LARGE FAMILY. WHAT KIND OF LESSONS DID YOU LEARN FROM HIM? Everything I know today, I learnt it from my father. He taught me the value of hard work and the importance of family. He also taught me not to take too much risk and to avoid gambling in business. He did, however, teach me how to take calculated risks, which is what helped me succeed.
THAT MUST BE WHY HE WAS A PROMINENT NAME IN WHAT IS AFFECTIONATELY CALLED “THE OLD BAHRAIN”. DO YOU SEE MAJOR DIFFERENCES BETWEEN BUSINESSMEN FROM HIS GENERATION AND BUSINESSMEN OF TODAY? WHAT MADE YOUR FATHER AND HIS GENERATION SO UNIQUE? Doing business in the past was completely different from today. During the time of my father and grandfather, they were pearl merchants in their early days. They relied heavily on developing
personal contacts. Travelling was difficult. It took my father 2 weeks to reach Bombay to sell his pearls. His first trip to the UK in the 1940’s, when he was going to make deals with agencies, took him 5 days by seaplane. Even for me, when I came back from studying in the UK in 1966, the only communication method available with our suppliers was by posting letters written on typewriters. It took 3 weeks just to get a reply. The old generation had to do everything the hard way, including in traveling and banking.
THEY DID, BUT YOU ALSO OVERCAME YOUR OWN UNIQUE CHALLENGES OVER THE YEARS AND HAVE NOW CARVED A LEGACY OF YOUR OWN. WHAT HAS BEEN THE PROUDEST MOMENT OF YOUR CAREER? THE ONE THAT NEVER FAILS TO REIGNITE YOUR PASSION AS AN ENTREPRENEUR? There have been many moments where I can say I was proud. I’m proud of my children and grandchildren. I’m also proud of the many successes I have achieved. I was lucky to have more than a few of those in my business because I formed companies that I felt were much needed by the market at the time.
FINAL QUESTION. LOOKING BACK AT THE OLD DAYS AND THE PRESENT, WHAT WOULD YOU SAY WAS THE BIGGEST CULTURAL OR SOCIAL CHANGE YOU HAVE SEEN IN THE KINGDOM? WAS THERE A NOTICEABLE SHIFT AT SOME POINT? I would say the biggest transformation is the introduction of the internet and the growing popularity of social media networks. It’s remarkably easy to get in touch with anyone these days! The Kingdoms’ adoption of technology from an early stage has allowed it to positon itself quite uniquely as a hub and helped nurture the entrepreneurship spirit in the many industries. almoayyed.com
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September 2020
THE ART OF EMPOWERMENT A free-spirited contemporary artist and a successful businesswoman, Nabeela Al Khayer exemplifies passion. Her art is full of life and femininity, creating poetic stories with vividly strong female characters in a predominantly maledominated society. With every stroke, Nabeela’s brush paints women that are beautiful, charming and full of positivity, reflecting the qualities that help them play their important role in our community. WOMEN PLAY A CENTRAL ROLE IN YOUR ART. WHAT MESSAGE DO YOU HOPE TO COMMUNICATE THROUGH THEIR PORTRAYAL IN YOUR WORK? When I first started, I was influenced by the great women that surrounded me, including those in my family, friends and the many strong women in my country. These women were not only active at home, but also in various fields including social and economic careers. Today, we can clearly see that women have reached high positions in our society and have created a firm presence in our community. In my eyes, women are not only one half of our society, but can be seen as society itself. In my work, I always strive to showcase a woman’s true value, role and importance in our society, which is not limited to aesthetics. Another aspect that is very important to me is to display our beautiful Bahraini heritage and culture, while also showcasing women’s role in building and progressing our country. 02
WHERE DO YOU FIND INSPIRATION TO
CREATE? DOES IT BECOME EASIER WITH TIME? All that which motivates me exists in my local surroundings, whether it be people or the beauty of our natural landscape. Bahrain is a beautiful country which by itself brings me all the motivation I need. At the end of the day, as long as you love your work, you will find beauty in everything. This, coupled with a curiosity for life and knowledge, will fuel your research and experiences and bring you into a world of inspiration that brings out your artistic growth.
ARE THERE PARTICULAR MATERIALS OR TOOLS THAT YOU PREFER TO WORK WITH? As an artist, I love working with all available materials, whether they are difficult or easy to use. I don’t like to limit myself and as a result limit my artistic giving. I can implement my ideas using any material, even if it is hard to work with. The truth is I like all mix media and enjoy working even with pigment powder despite its difficulty of use.
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01 Sound of Water 02 Nabeela Al Khayer 03 Nabeela’s contribution at the Bahrain Authority for Culture and Antiquities’ ‘Food Is Culture’ festival 04 Ruby Floating Fragrance
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WHAT IS THE BIGGEST CHALLENGE YOU FACE AS AN ARTIST? The biggest challenge for me is to constantly improve myself and bring new ideas into my artistic endeavours. As an artist, I don’t like to repeat myself, so I always seek to create and innovate outside of the familiar framework. This is especially difficult in Bahrain, a country filled with great artistic energy and beautiful innovative minds. This energy pushes me to always go beyond my own limits so that I can be seen as a distinguished artist.
DO YOU HAVE A FAVORITE AMONG YOUR WORKS? THAT ONE PROJECT THAT YOU FEEL MOST PROUD OF? To be honest, I love all my work and feel very connected to it, but I feel a great amount of pride and love for my latest work as I have used new methods which are somewhat hard to execute. These methods have not been used locally as of yet, and really showcases my 30 years of artistic experiences. An achievement that brings me great pride and gratitude is the many invitations I have received over the years to prestigious international biennales, especially in France and Italy, countries known for their love and appreciation of art. Another major source of pride is a personal art exhibition held in Italy that saw a number of revered artists in attendance. This exhibition had a huge impact on my artistic experience.
WHAT ARTISTS HAD THE BIGGEST INFLUENCE ON YOUR STYLE? My memory is filled with the beautiful work of international and local artists that influence me in one way or another. Each of these artists have their own unique style that made me leave exhibitions feeling dazzled and breathless. I can say that I was
greatly influenced by colours that took me into another world, which is what made me excel in my use of colours in my various works.
HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE THE ART COMMUNITY IN BAHRAIN? The artistic movement in Bahrain is constantly moving and evolving, we can see that by the number of art exhibitions held throughout the year. History shows that Bahrain is one of the first countries in the gulf that embraced its active art scene on the highest level. The pioneers in this field include Abdulkareem Al Arayedh, Hussain Al Sunni, Ahmed Baqer, Al Bosta and many others. There are also those that gave these artists a platform to express themselves, which include the Bahrain Arts Society founded by Shaikh Rashed Al Khalifa, and the Bahrain Contemporary Arts Association founded by Abdulkareem Al Arayedh. The Bahraini scene is filled with a wide array of creative talents, whether male or female, representing various styles of art. There is also a youthful presence that has incorporated technology and other modern methods into their art. All this has contributed and allowed Bahrain to competently reach an international level of recognition.
WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE TO A NOVICE ARTIST? I say to the young and talented artists of Bahrain, not as a critic but as an artist and an admirer, always strive to evolve and to better yourself. As artists, it is important to experiment, to research and to make use of all the available tools, including modern technological methods. Art has no limits, and so those who practice it must continuously push past their own limitations and discover the unknown. nabeelaalkhayer-art.com
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“The biggest challenge for me is
to constantly improve myself and bring new ideas into my artistic endeavours.”
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05 Nabeela and Chef Irv Bronzato at ‘Food Is Culture’ festival 06, 07 Women’s Breeze
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Celebrating la joie de vivre Founded in 1998, MJ By Mayyan Jaffar jewellery was born out of passion and love for creating beauty from precious metals and gems. Inspired by life’s simple beauty, Mayyan’s collections are aimed at those who want something unique to complete their lifestyle, encouraging women to own and celebrate their identities through vibrant creations.
The main face and voice behind the brand, Mayyan Jaffar’s designs take shape in her creative mind, drawing inspiration from her love of nature, fashion, culture, and vintage 1950’s cinema with its iconic and timeless famous actresses. Driven by a passion for gemstones, she is deeply involved in the manufacturing process. She meticulously selects the best material and precious stones for each of her creations. Curves, the first of her two main collections, is inspired by a woman’s inherent femininity, sensual radiance, power, and privilege. It features silhouettes that are bold yet understated, and an edgy feminine vibe, culminating in an overall look that is both raw and elegant. With 18 carat raw gold, white, and black gold complemented with diamonds, the ultra-modern and handcrafted Curves Collection features a natural and organic aesthetic. It also helps a humanitarian cause, as with every
Curves piece purchased, 20% of the proceeds go towards ‘Smile of Bahrain’, an NGO initiative by the Future Youth Association that provides psychosocial support to children with cancer and their families in the Kingdom of Bahrain. The second and latest of her collections, Art Deco, was launched during last year’s Jewellery Arabia. Inspired from the authentic Art Deco fine jewellery, Mayyan created a unique collection with stylized motifs, vibrant colors, and geometric shapes that capture the spirit of this famously flamboyant period. The dazzling collection includes a wide range of bright, bold, and colorful fine gemstones such as enamel, jade, aquamarine, and topaz. It also includes diamonds, sapphires, emeralds, and more for a stunning contrast. Each jewel is a very unique piece and requires a considerable amount of time in each stage,
September 2020
“The dazzling collection includes a wide range of bright, bold, and colorful fine gemstones such as enamel, jade, aqua marine, and topaz.�
01 Art Deco White gold necklace pendant in blue enamel with emeral center stone and diamonds
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02 Art Deco collection white gold black onix with emerald or blue topaz 03 Curves collection ring and earrings 18 carat raw gold with diamonds 04 Art Deco raw gold necklace with diamonds stars pendant
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from the creative design to the precious material selection to the manufacture in the hands of skilled artisans and goldsmiths. Each piece is thoroughly examined by experts before being showcased in Asia Jewellers’ boutique at Moda Mall. The Art Deco collection, with its colorful gems, was a great success during the summer. It aligned well with the latest fashion trends for vibrant colors and chic holidays looks, making its wearer feel as if they are on a Greek Island, or at Marbella or St Tropez – a feeling that was greatly appreciated as traveling was not possible this summer. In addition to these two collections, work is also currently underway on a third collection, which will present stunning creations dedicated to fluorescent colors with handpicked stones. What is particularly unique about MJ by Mayyan Jaffar is that clients play a part in jewellery creations. Mayyan proudly takes her inspiration from them, as she loves listening to their own histories, understanding their desires, and creating custom made designs that will become part of their personality. Although MJ by Mayyan Jaffar still enjoys a privileged relationship with clientele, who are welcomed to the boutique and dedicated ample time and attention, the current pandemic has been a catapult of change, encouraging more focus on enhancing the brand’s online presence, especially on Instagram. The collections are available on the official website and orders can be placed via WhatsApp. Home delivery service is available upon request. MJ by Mayyan Jaffar is exclusively available at Asia Jewellers boutique, Moda Mall. Tel: +973 17535344
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WHATEVER YOUR TASTE IN ART, YOU’LL FIND IT HERE! Inspiration in every form, style, size and budget. World Art Dubai presents the widest collection of affordable art originals in the region, from paintings to photography to digital art and more, starting at just US$100. Plus there’s art to experience for everyone, from workshops to live performances to competitions. 4 days, a vivid new world. B U Y YO U R T I C K E T S O N L I N E
W O R L D A R T D U B A I .C O M
# WA D 2 0 2 0
AFFORDABLE ART FOR EVERYONE
#WORLDARTDUBAI
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‘Extraordinary Every day’ Jewellery Tiffany & Co. launches the next chapter of the Tiffany T legacy with the introduction of Tiffany T1. This new evolution of the Tiffany T collection celebrates the iconic ‘T’ motif featured in the brand’s jewelry designs since the early 1980s.
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Designed by Reed Krakoff, Tiffany’s chief artistic officer, Tiffany T1 will be unveiled with a year-long series of global launches, beginning with a curated edit of nine 18k rose gold key styles and an exclusive high jewelry necklace in April 2020, 18k white and yellow gold styles will follow in summer 2020. Five of the nine designs are intricately set with radiant Tiffany diamonds. Intended to be worn and become part of your signature style and story, these modern and effortless fine jewelry pieces create a bold yet refined statement. Designed for a woman with a point of view, whatever phase of life the wearer is in: Tiffany T1 is the ultimate piece that people buy for themselves and wear as a symbol of their accomplishments. Tiffany T1 jewelry combines clean lines and graphic forms with new elegantly angular and
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“Tiffany T1 jewelry combines clean lines and graphic forms
with new elegantly angular and feminine proportions, and is timelessly elevated with expertly set diamonds.� 04
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01 Tiffany T1 narrow hinged bangle in 18k rose gold with diamonds 02 Tiffany T1 wide ring in 18k rose gold with diamonds 03 Tiffany & Co. T1 bangles in 18k rose gold with diamonds 04 Tiffany & Co. T1 bangles and rings in 18k rose gold 05 Tiffany & Co. T1 Collection in 18k rose gold
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feminine proportions, and is timelessly elevated with expertly set diamonds. Encircling the wrist, finger or neck, the ‘T’ motif forms an unbroken circle that represents individual strength and selfempowerment. An innovative beveled bar with a subtle clasp is integrated seamlessly on the reverse. Tiffany T1 with bracelets and rings in 18k rose gold are available in wide and narrow widths, including styles with pavé diamonds expertly set by hand in a honeycomb pattern, priced between $850 and $28,000. Also available are a striking high jewelry necklace—masterfully set with mixedcut diamonds is also available and 18k yellow and white gold metalways. Bracelets, rings, earrings and pendants set with baguette diamonds will launch in September 2020. The collection will be available in Bahrain in September 2020. tiffany.com
08 06 Florence Pugh attends the Vogue and Tiffany & Co. Fashion and Film party at Annabel’s London 07 Charlize Theron attends the Vogue and Tiffany & Co. Fashion and Film party at Annabel’s London 08, 09 Tiffany & Co. T1 Campaign Imagery
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The Arabdeco Phenomenon
The Art Deco period was a reflection of the change that was occurring in 1920’s. The world was on the move at an increased speed, eager to blast into a new, modern age. Art Deco, with its distinctive lines and curves, encapsulated the mindsets and design directions of this period.
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“Over the years, Al Zain has developed the ability to translate their visions and designs into reality. ”
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01 Arabesque is symbolic of the way in which traditional Islamic cultures view the world 02 The collection is inspired by the glamour and elegance of the Art Deco Era and the linear patterns of the Arabesque motif 03 Intricate patterns are embellished with diamonds and held together by natural pearls
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As the golden age of Islam came into full bloom, Arabesque, one of the aspects of Islamic art, was widely used to decorate the walls of Arabian Palaces. It is an elaborate application of repeating geometric forms that echo creation. In time, these beautiful designs have inspired much of European & American architecture in some way or another. The choice of geometric forms used and how they were exhibited were based upon the Islamic view of the world at the time. These forms, taken together, constitute an infinite pattern that extends beyond the visible material world – they symbolize the infinite. Arabesque is symbolic of united faith and the way in which traditional Islamic cultures view the world. It reflects unity arising from diversity. The Arabdeco Collection from Al Zain consists of handmade pieces inspired by the glamour and elegance of the Art Deco Era fused with the strict rhythmic and linear patterns of the Arabesque motif. Through their creations, Al Zain aims to explore and represent the roots and depths of their Arabian Heritage. During the concept creation of Arabdeco, they playfully mixed local culture with the cultures of the world. While Al Zain seeks to preserve their
traditions and heritage of the past, they aim to reintroduce heritage with a touch of modernism making it relevant to today’s customer. Heritage forms the foundation for the future in their designs. With a meticulous eye and skill for their craftsmanship, Al Zain brings to life beautifully crafted pieces that truly reflects their passion for jewellery making. Their skill, love, and relentless drive for perfection are extremely evident when you hold an Al Zain masterpiece in your hands. The Arabdeco collection is no exception. Intricate Arabesque patterns embellished with glittering diamonds, all held together by natural pearls from the Arabian Gulf. Al Zain takes it upon themselves to protect and preserve this natural resource and offer it to the world represented in the best of their designs. Over the years, Al Zain has developed the ability to translate their visions and designs into reality. Highly trained artisans transform ideas and raw materials into heirlooms that tell stories and are treasured by their wearers. While designing, Al Zain have pre-set intentions that follow the journey of a piece being made from start to finish. Design is used as a means of expression. At Al Zain,
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design is used to tell stories – beyond the esthetic – they create an emotional connection between the concept of their creation, the design and the customer. It becomes a truly intimate experience to own a high jewellery piece crafted by Al Zain. Their signature style gives boundless room for creativity and innovation. Novelty and invention have become a cherished aspect of the growth of Al Zain as a luxury designer brand. Forging new boundaries within design and creation is an ingredient that sets new standards for a new generation of very discerning shoppers. With a world drifting further and further away from traditions and culture, Al Zain believes that authenticity lies in your roots and heritage. Embracing Timeless Heritage is the ethos of the brand and they share that with the world through their timeless creations. They believe we should always be reminded of our heritage. After all it is what sets us apart, yet brings us together with no regard to race, color or religion. alzainjewellery.com
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05 04, 05, 06, 07, 08 The beautiful and meticulously handcrafted creations of the ArabDeco collection
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“Through their creations, Al Zain aims to explore
and represent the roots and depths of their Arabian Heritage.�
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“From exclusive masterpieces to
statement creations, Devji Aurum’s jewellery opus carries a distinctive message engulfed in the Aura of Arabia.”
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Legacy of Craftsmanship
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A well-established jewellery brand in the Arabian Gulf, Devji Aurum has seven decades of experience in the market. Building on its founder’s vision, the brand has gone from strength to strength over the years, with its international presence felt today in the Kingdom of Bahrain, United Arab Emirates, Sultanate of Oman, and India. 01 Ornate designs featuring exquisite craftsmanship 02 Ruhi Masterpiece ring
The genesis of Devji Aurum was in Bahrain’s Al Aali Mall, where their very first boutique was established in the year 1998. The brand has orchestrated an array of masterpiece collections such as the signature Ruhi Collection, Allure and Oubharia - the brand’s trending Fashion lines and the Bridal Collection - an articulately crafted series for Devji Aurum Brides. Devji Aurum welcomes the Durrah readers and promises to take all the jewellery enthusiasts on a phenomenal journey of jewels and luxury. Devji Aurum’s Oubharia Collection is an expressive fashion series created using the delicate age-old technique of crafting hollow gold spheres by skilled goldsmiths, which are then handmade
into beautiful jewellery pieces, with the gold beads being the main highlight of the versatile collection. The brand’s enchanting Allure Collection consists of long dazzling diamond necklaces with baguettes, rounds and other fancy diamonds set in 18k rose, yellow and white gold, beautifully draping down from the neck to the naval. This collection stands out due to its dramatic drop and setting style, making it the brand’s finest fashion series. Devji Aurum’s brides have been celebrated with passion throughout generations. Mastered with world-class designs inspired from cascades, chandeliers, floral motifs, and other unique elements, each piece glorifies the age-old rules of proportion and style. The Bridal Collection manifests
the uniqueness of every woman, her exotic beauty, her courage, her passion, and pays homage to the special characteristics of each bride. Ruhi translates to ‘my soul’ in Arabic and is the flagship signature line of Devji Aurum. The distinctive Ruhi Collection was inspired by the founding father Shri. Devji Ramji Sagar. He had an innate passion for artisanship and the desire to create exclusive pieces of jewellery that would not only be adornments, but time capsules of art and culture, that told stories. Thus, this collection was the brand’s fundamental concept that originated during its inception, with jewellery pieces crafted using only the highest-grade handcrafted gold surfaces, diamonds and unique precious and semi-precious gems.
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This extensive line spans over almost two decades and encapsulates the brand’s rich legacy of exquisite artistry and ethnic luxury. It bridges the gap between heritage and innovation by creating masterpieces that visualize the cultural crossroads of different civilizations. The narrative drama in each piece, rooted in the identity of the Arabian Gulf also borrows aesthetic and technical influences from Turkey, India, Persia, Africa, South-East Asia and Europe. Thus, each piece becomes the heirloom of Bahrain’s rich multi-cultural heritage and the soul of its authentic yet all-embracing people. Precious emeralds, sapphires, rubies, diamonds, pearls, and turquoise stones are primarily used to add a bright accent of colour to the pieces. The elaborate details found in each piece signify unique composition styles and thoughtful craftsmanship. Religious iconography, ornamental thread-work, indigenous motifs, multi-layered surface textures and dangling drops are some of the elements that sensually clothe the graceful geometry of each piece. The most outstanding feature of the Ruhi Collection is the treatment of the back surfaces of its various elements. Often, the rear side of jewellery is left bare, as the back is often considered to be hidden or unseen. It is only the front that is adorned, decorated and draws attention. However, each jewel in the collection is carefully designed with intricate
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cut-out gold motifs in our signature patterns, covering the hollow back of all the designed elements. This perfectly engineered detail protects the golden work of art from damage, making the surface smooth and gentle on the skin of the wearer. The Ruhi collection has diversified into various design genres over the period, ranging from small contemporary pieces to weighty ethnic sets. The various lines in this series namely are the Ruhi Brides, Ruhi Gestures, Ruhi Gold, Ruhi Pearls, Ruhi Gems, and Ruhi Masterpieces, made in the iconic 21k Bahraini gold and also in 18k gold. With further advancements in the field of jewellery designing, Devji Aurum’s exotic Ruhi Collection will be introducing new renditions of modern oeuvres in the upcoming seasons. Stay tuned to experience collections inspired from historical Middle Eastern influences with a contemporary take on aesthetic elements from all around. A unique attention to heritage and luxury is engraved in the design tapestry of Devji Aurum, entrusted with jewels layered with the richness of the past yet propelled by the ingenuity of the future. From exclusive masterpieces to statement creations, Devji Aurum’s jewellery opus carries a distinctive message engulfed in the Aura of Arabia. devjiaurum.com
06 03 Devji Aurum’s jewellery opus carries a distinctive message engulfed in the Aura of Arabia
06 Ruhi translates to ‘my soul’ in Arabic and is the flagship signature line of Devji Aurum
04 Ruhi Masterpiece earrings
07 Ruhi Gestures bangle and ring
05 The elaborate details found in each piece signify unique composition styles and thoughtful craftsmanship
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September 2020
Inspiring Greatness, at Home
A digital House of Rolls-Royce, Whispers is the world’s most exclusive members’ club. curated by the marque’s Luxury Intelligence Unit, the application offers transformative experiences to its community, including rare products, whimsical treasures, and exclusive Rolls-Royce previews. Verena Masters, Head of Whispers, reveals more about the extraordinary app. WHAT CAN MEMBERS EXPECT WHEN THEY JOIN ROLLS-ROYCE WHISPERS? Rolls-Royce clients know that we strive for perfection in everything we do. They trust us and expect crème de la crème experiences from us. Whispers is an example of this. Whispers’ members expect a digital world of curated luxury and a gateway to the world’s most rarefied products, services and ideas. Through Whispers, Rolls-Royce offers, to the delight of its clients, access to an amazing and sometimes whimsical collection of luxury offerings, transformative experiences, exclusive Rolls-Royce previews, inspiring articles and thought pieces, undiscovered destinations and perhaps most importantly, the ability to securely contact and privately commune with some of the world’s greatest minds.
HOW MANY MEMBERS DO YOU CURRENTLY HAVE ON WHISPERS? WHAT ARE THE MEMBERSHIP RULES? I can’t reveal information about the exact number of Whispers members, however, Whispers is available for all clients of Goodwood
manufactured Rolls-Royce motor cars and that’s the only way to access the exclusive membership club.
WHAT ARE THE MOST POPULAR INTERESTS OF WHISPERS’ MEMBERS? Whispers members are comprised of an extraordinary community of like-minded individuals interested in rare and desirable products, art, whimsical treasures as well as exclusive Rolls-Royce previews. From an expedition to Antarctica and a chance to build a personal racetrack, to a private performance by a world-class orchestra, Whispers’ members have a plethora of interests across a wide range of landscapes.
DID THE PANDEMIC HAVE AN IMPACT ON THE TYPE OF CONTENT IN WHISPERS? HOW ARE MEMBERS COPING WITH THAT CHANGE? During the Covid-19 pandemic, Rolls-Royce clients, as is the case with so many of us, have really engaged with content centered around the natural world, creativity, health and wellness. In other words, members have turned to Whispers for content that provides solace and enlightenment.
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01 Whispers is a digital extension to the Rolls-Royce marque 02 Verena Masters
Nature has also been welcomed into the homes of members along with epicurean delights such as inspiring virtual cooking classes with prominent chefs from around the globe.
CAN YOU TELL US A BIT ABOUT THE LUXURY INTELLIGENCE UNIT AND WHAT IT DOES? The Rolls-Royce Luxury Intelligence Unit consists of a globally distributed network of luxury aficionados. The unit is charged with searching far and wide for inspirational offerings and creative ideas. Focusing on the interests of Whispers’ members, the Luxury Intelligence Unit puts together exceptional offerings for clients. Also, within RollsRoyce, there is a department called the ‘Private Office’ which maintains one-to-one relationships with our clients. So we knew that due to clients’ highly mobile, international lifestyles, they have been seeking a means to have more regular personal involvement with the marque – that’s more experiences, more access, and more immersion in the luxury world that is available to Rolls-Royce as the world’s leading luxury brand.
HOW LONG DID IT TAKE FOR THE WHISPERS APP TO BECOME REALITY? Whispers has been operating for over two years to a select group of globally distributed clients and evolved and adapted in close collaboration with its users. We had begun receiving enquiries from our friends in the media who had heard whispers of Whispers from current Rolls-Royce owners, so we shared the latest and most accurate information with the media in February this year.
WHAT WERE THE BIGGEST CHALLENGES IN DIGITIZING WHISPERS? At Rolls-Royce Motor Cars, we strive for perfection. It’s in our DNA. So, when it came to digitizing Whispers, we saw this as a great opportunity to have members further engage with the marque and immerse themselves in a digital Home of RollsRoyce, wherever in the world they may be.
ARE THERE PLANS TO INTRODUCE NEW FEATURES IN THE NEXT UPDATE? We are, of course, always looking for ways in which we can innovate, develop and surpass the bounds of creativity. As Whispers, the digital Home of Rolls-Royce, is a new app, we are in an ongoing development process. At this stage, I can’t reveal too much about what we have in the pipeline, but what I can say is that members can expect a lot of exciting and new experiences, projects, exclusive previews and more. 02
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The Hyper Horology Experience Roger Dubuis CEO, Nicola Andreatta reveals how the iconic Swiss watchmaker still sets itself apart from the competition and shares details of its latest creations in partnership with Lamborghini.
01 Excalibur Aventador S
YOU RECENTLY LAUNCHED THE EXCALIBUR ESSENZA SCV12 IN COLLABORATION WITH LAMBORGHINI. WHAT ARE ITS MAIN FEATURES? AND WHAT SETS IT APART FROM THE AVENTADOR S? Roger Dubuis and Lamborghini Squadra Corse share the same approach in designing the future of our respective industries. The evolution represented by the Lambo SCV12 triggered our will to update and refine our Iconic Duotor caliber. In this sense we matched their effort to elevating the performance while harmonizing the design codes, in order to render a timepiece which could fully incarnate the spirit of this incredible supercar. The result is a caliber which has been stripped down to its essentials, opening up even more our skeletonized movement while harmonizing the design codes shared by the timepiece and the Lamborghini Essenza SCV12. The barrel can be viewed from the top as if one were peering through a transparent supercar hood. The strut bars on the top of the caliber remain a signature feature of Excalibur Lamborghini-inspired models. To make sure to express the exclusivity of this new
timepiece, we included it in our Rarities program, so that it will be offered only to our VIP clients who will be able to further personalize the timepiece, so mirroring Lamborghini’s approach to customization.
CAN YOU TELL US A BIT ABOUT THE EXCALIBUR TWOFOLD? WAS IT A CHALLENGE TO CREATE? Well, it was definitely fun! We were looking for a new look for our celebrated Double Flying Tourbillon, and we also wanted to find an alternative to ceramics, in order to achieve a perfectly white color for a timepiece. As always, our teams accepted the challenge and came up with incredibly innovative and unexpected solutions. In fact, the watch features not less than three world premieres, starting from a brand-new material never yet seen in Haute Horlogerie: Mineral Composite Fiber (MCF). We worked several years to develop this new material which features many technical and aesthetical advantages compared to others, including its ultrawhite color. The second and third world’s firsts are also highlights of this model. We have developed a
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02 Nicola Andreatta 03 The Excalibur Twofold 04 Lamborghini Essenza SCV12 05 Excalibur Twofold in white
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“Roger Dubuis and Lamborghini Squadra Corse
share the same approach in designing the future of our respective industries. ”
patented process to light up every angle of the upper movement plate with superluminova. And finally, the strap is also luminescent at night. Integrating light into our watches is part of our expressive approach, inspired by recent trends in the world of contemporary art. For this purpose, we selected the best SuperLumiNova material and suppliers and we focused particularly on the processing aspect in order to apply this material on new surfaces. If it wasn’t a challenge it wouldn’t be a Roger Dubuis. Our passion to make the impossible possible is part of our DNA.
WHAT’S THE MOST CHALLENGING ASPECT OF OVERSEEING A HIGH-LEVEL BRAND LIKE ROGER DUBUIS? I would say that for Roger Dubuis the challenge is always that of seamlessly integrating tradition and innovation. And specifically, regarding our ambition to be always innovative, the challenge is that of being always ahead of the curve, of fueling what we consider to be the right mindset, an attitude, a culture. It has to do with creating and sustaining the best possible conditions for our people to be able to explore, to create, and to experiment. It is a 360 degrees approach, a culture which we are trying to spread within all stakeholders connected to Roger Dubuis. 05
HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE THE CLIENT PROFILE OF ROGER DUBUIS IN THE MIDDLE EAST? WHAT ARE THE MAIN CHARACTERISTICS OF THE ROGER DUBUIS WEARER? Besides small cultural differences, our global “Tribe” is composed of similar individuals, which share with us some strong values. They “live larger than life”, they stand for strong emotions and worship beauty and refinement in life. They are very demanding when it gets to choosing how to spend their money. Hedonism is what drives them, they want to experience the unexpected, they want to be pioneers, they like the best of the best: in other words, they dare to be who they are. The common traits of our clients lie in the way they approach life. But most of them are also connoisseurs, they appreciate and understand Haute Horlogerie, and we are among the very few Brands which are in the position to fulfil their dreams.
HOW DOES ROGER DUBUIS POSITION ITSELF AMONG COMPETITORS IN THE LUXURY WATCH MARKET? We definitely stand out! With our innovative approach we design the future of Haute Horlogerie, while always having a deep respect and getting inspired from the well rooted watchmaking tradition. Our Heritage is our future, as we like to say. We believe that people need more than ever to discover beauty, restart dreaming and experiencing, and we’ll definitely be there, standing for our tribe, to guide them in the world of excess: The world of Roger Dubuis. Or the most exciting way to experience Hyper Horology!
WHAT QUALITIES DO YOU LOOK FOR IN A WATCH? WHAT MAKES YOU FEEL A CONNECTION? I believe each person has a different way to “connect” with a watch and to appreciate it. Personally, I spend a lot of time manipulating a watch, touching and evaluating the quality of its craftsmanship.
WHAT IS YOUR PERSONAL FAVORITE FROM THE ROGER DUBUIS COLLECTIONS? It’s always the next one we are going to make. I always need to project myself into the next challenge.
WHERE DO YOU SEE THE ROGER DUBUIS BRAND GOING IN THE NEAR FUTURE? ARE THERE NEW AREAS TO EXPLORE? Outlooks and predictions are always dangerous to make, especially in a world that is constantly changing. The beauty of Roger Dubuis is that it is a Maison mastering and respecting tradition while always projected into forging its own future. We strongly believe that “a Brand is a promise well delivered”. Our promise is pretty simple: “Roger Dubuis is the most exciting way to experience hyper-horology” and we will devote all our expertise, creativity and energy to delivering on that promise. As you can imagine, there are plenty of exciting projects and ideas in our drawers, as well as timepieces to be unveiled… the best has yet to come! rogerdubuis.com
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The Cult Watch With its distinctive codes and extraordinary design, the Pasha watch is for those who think big. A broad worldview which echoes a whole new generation of successful talent. Their success is reflected in new, unique and diverse creative projects being launched in 2020 that set them apart from previous generations. 01
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01, 02, 03 The extraordinary Pasha de Cartier
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A community of personalities that positively favour a multidisciplinary approach sharing open-mindedness and strong connections. Their ambitions are as bold as the Pasha de Cartier watch - an extroverted watch which steps outside of the box of classic watchmaking, where nothing is off-limits. How? By setting itself apart, embracing an assertive graphic signature. A square filigree rail-track is found in the circle of its dial, immediately introducing a nonconformist watch that harmoniously brings opposites together. Four bold Arabic numerals ensure an ultra-contemporary, oversized appearance. Its striking design challenges the predominance of round shapes in watchmaking, and amplifies its presence, originality and singularity. The bracelet is accentuated by the clous de Paris whilst its chained crown ensures maximum visibility. That’s why the Pasha de Cartier has been a cult watch since its creation in 1985. At the time, its power caught the eye of the generations’ opinion leaders. Initially adopted by men; then immediately appropriated by women for the power it exudes. A standout watch that loves light, assumes its excesses and asserts its strength of character.
Faithful to the original model but even more sophisticated with its crown featuring a blue spinel or sapphire, interchangeable strap and its multiple possibilities of personalisation, the Pasha de Cartier watch for the 2020s is classic yet contemporary and remains as edgy as ever. Produced in steel, yellow gold, pink gold and set with diamonds, the Pasha de Cartier collection includes many models, incorporating fine jewellery pieces and fine watchmaking creations with skeleton versions. Interchangeable straps, a sapphire crystal case back, a new crown and personalised engraving: the Pasha de Cartier watch is sophisticated in terms of watchmaking functions and design details which combine to strengthen and maximise its ergonomic appeal. One of the key design elements of the Pasha de Cartier watch is the chained crown. In its new version, Cartier added increased refinement, equipping the winding crown, hidden under the fluted crown cover, with a blue spinel or sapphire. This division, and duplication, of blues enhances the ergonomics of the winding crown and the preciousness of the watch.
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September 2020
With the Pasha watch, Cartier is unveiling a new customisable engraving. Carved in the form of initials, the engraving appears under the crown cover, secret and undetectable. Indeed, it is only revealed when the famous chained crown of the Pasha de Cartier watch is unscrewed. The new Pasha de Cartier watch features an innovative strap in keeping with the spirit of our time. It responds to new lifestyles, supports change and adapts easily to different situations, depending on the colours and materials chosen. In steel, gold or leather, all versions can be interchanged thanks to an adaptation of the Cartier-developed QuickSwitch system. This invisible mechanism blends into an architecture located under the case and is activated by a single push. The sizing adjustment of the metal bracelet to the nearest link has been added to this cutting-edge technology. The SmartLink system, which has been registered for a patent, allows the bracelet length to be adjusted by the owner without the use of a tool. Each SmartLink link is equipped with a push button that releases the fixing bar allowing removal or addition of the metal links of the Pasha de Cartier watch. Equipped with a sapphire crystal case back that reveals its movement, the new Pasha de Cartier watch is endowed with the 1847 MC automatic calibre. This in-house movement goes further still in the quest for performance and reassurance thanks to its resistance to both magnetism and water. The use of non-magnetic nickel phosphorus components for the movement’s escape mechanism as well as a shield made of a paramagnetic alloy integrated into the case allow the 1847 MC calibre to effectively resist the strong magnetic fields to which a watch can be exposed in everyday life. The screw-connection design allows the new Pasha de Cartier watch to offer water resistance to 10 bar (approx. 100 metres) while retaining minimal thickness. cartier.com
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07 04, 05 An extrovert and unisex watch 06 Rami Malek, one of the faces of Pasha de Cartier 07 Models incorporate fine jewellery
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15 09 08 08, 09, 10 Sophisticated functions and design 11 The faces of Pasha de Cartier: (from left) Rami Malek, Willow Smith, Troye Sivan, Maisie Williams and Jackson Wang
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Cartier brings together a community of unique personalities who are changing the codes of success by forging exceptional, new and diverse paths of creativity.
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September 2020
High Time to Thrill Cutting-edge style and innovation have always been essential parts of the James Bond story. In keeping with that legacy, OMEGA has now delivered a brand new Seamaster Diver 300M James Bond Numbered Edition, offering plenty of high-tech details for 007 fans to enjoy.
OMEGA has been equipping James Bond with its Seamaster timepieces since GoldenEye in 1995. This special new release is a proud celebration of that partnership, and provides a new addition to the 007 collection. For an exceptional look, the 42 mm case is crafted in platinum-gold, with a platinum-gold plate on its side, engraved with each Numbered Edition number. The same beautiful material is also used for the polished-brushed buckle of the watch’s black leather strap. More unique details can be uncovered throughout the design, including a black ceramic bezel ring with a platinum diving scale in positive relief, as well as a black enamel dial, which has been given a spiraling gun barrel design in 18K white gold. As part of the OMEGA James Bond collection that was launched last year, this watch also includes a hidden number 50 within the SuperLumiNova of the 10 o’clock index - a reference to the 50th anniversary of the James Bond film On Her Majesty’s Secret Service. Elsewhere on the dial, you can find a 007 logo at 7 o’clock on the white
enamel minute track, as well as 18K white gold features, including the hands, indexes and Bond family coat-of-arms at 12 o’clock. Turning the watch over reveals a second Bond family coat-of-arms, which has been laser-engraved and filled with platinum on the sapphire crystal caseback. Its captivating final effect is completed with hand-engraved finishing in the finest detail. Through the glass, you can spy the OMEGA CoAxial Master Chronometer Calibre 8807 – certified at the highest standards of precision, chronometric performance and magnetic resistance. Finally, for fans who are able to obtain this Seamaster Diver 300M James Bond Numbered Edition, it comes presented in its own GlobeTrotter™ suitcase, bound by NATO-inspired straps. Inside, an additional black rubber strap is included. James Bond’s story with OMEGA began with the Seamaster Quartz Professional Diver 300M in GoldenEye (1995). When 007 is trapped in the villain’s armored train, with the seconds ticking away before it explodes, the British spy uses the watch’s built-in laser on the bezel to cut through
the steel plate, enabling him to leap free in the nick of time. In his second adventure as James Bond in Tomorrow Never Dies (1997), Pierce Brosnan wears the OMEGA Seamaster Professional Diver 300M, the automatic chronometer version of the famous OMEGA Seamaster Diver 300M. In the film, it incorporates a detachable remote-controlled detonator. In The World Is Not Enough (1999), James Bond is caught in an avalanche, and his life is saved by an inflatable ski jacket while the LED lights on his OMEGA Seamaster Professional Diver 300M bring a welcome relief in the darkness. Later, when Bond is trapped at the bottom of a nuclear bunker inspection pit, he unveils the Seamaster’s miniature grappling hook, fired by pressing the helium escape valve. OMEGA’s story with the British Secret Service agent continued with the release of Die Another Day (2002). Bond unleashes his trusty Seamaster model with two modifications: a detonator pin replacing the helium release valve, which is controlled by twisting the bezel, and a laser shooting from the crown, which is activated by
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01 The new Seamaster Diver 300M James Bond Numbered Edition 02 The Seamaster Planet Ocean 600M, Bond’s trusted partner in many action-packed scenes in Skyfall (2012) 03 The Seamaster Quartz Professional Diver 300M that Bond wore in GoldenEye (1995)
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04 The stylish OMEGA Seamaster Planet Ocean 600M from Quantum of Solace (2008) 05 The OMEGA Seamaster Diver 300M model, worn in the opening scene of Casino Royale (2006) 06 The classic and robust OMEGA Seamaster Aqua Terra, worn by Bond in Spectre (2015)
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pressing on the actual dial. In Casino Royale (2006), James Bond wears the OMEGA Seamaster Diver 300M model in his first scene with Vesper Lynd on a train. A subtle update from earlier models, and with an attractive blue dial, it catches the eye of Vesper who simply describes it as “beautiful”. The OMEGA Seamaster Planet Ocean 600M was the first OMEGA worn by Daniel Craig in Casino Royale. It is a rubber-strapped, black-faced Seamaster Planet Ocean 600M CoAxial Chronometer with an impressive 45.5mm diameter case. In Quantum of Solace (2008), as he’s speeding along the shores of Lake Garda in the film’s action-packed opening scene, Bond can be seen inside his Aston Martin DBS wearing the stylish OMEGA Seamaster Planet Ocean 600M. With a cool, classic black dial and bezel, this Planet Ocean model represents a slightly slimmed down version of the traditional Bond watch. OMEGA, by now a mainstay in the actionpacked series, was again worn by James Bond in Skyfall (2012). This OMEGA Seamaster Planet Ocean 600M was involved in many of the most memorable scenes, including the dramatic motorbike chase through the streets of Istanbul. The OMEGA Seamaster Aqua Terra also made an appearance in this film. With its blue dial and
striped finish, the OMEGA Seamaster Aqua Terra is powered by the same incredible movement as the Planet Ocean. Worn by Bond in Spectre (2015), the classic and robust OMEGA Seamaster Aqua Terra represents a tribute to OMEGA’s rich maritime heritage, perfect for Bond’s naval pedigree. With a sun-brushed and lacquered blue dial, this certified 41.5mm chronometer is powered by the OMEGA Master Co-Axial calibre 8500. The OMEGA Seamaster 300 was also worn by Bond in the same film. Not only is this 007’s first OMEGA watch with a NATO strap, but it also delivered a classic edge of diving style and design. Other interesting features include the lollipop central seconds hand and the bi-directional rotating GMT bezel. In the film, the watch hides an explosive secret that again helps Bond out of a difficult situation. For the latest installment in the series, No Time to Die (2020), OMEGA worked closely with Daniel Craig to create 007’s latest on-screen watch, the OMEGA Seamaster Diver 300M 007 Edition. The results were truly impressive. Emerging from the collaboration was this stylish 42 mm timepiece crafted from strong yet lightweight Grade 2 Titanium. omegawatches.com
WATCHES
Heritage of Innovation
The TUDOR collection has a selection of models that celebrate the brand’s memorable heritage as a supplier of divers’ watches to some of the largest navies in the world over the past six decades.
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“Today, the TUDOR collection comprises a number of references whose aesthetics allude to this heritage, with models either directly inspired by divers’ watches famously used by military divers, or presenting an allegory of life at sea.”
02 01, 02 Tudor Black Bay Fifty-Eight Navy Blue 03 The Black Bay P01
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This story dates back to the mid-1950s: 1954, to be precise. That was the year that TUDOR presented its first divers’ watch, reference 7922, one of the first professional instruments aimed specifically at this emerging discipline. TUDOR’s typical combination of a robust, technical product, positioned at an accessible price, made this divers’ watch the ideal option for any organisation carrying out largescale underwater activities. The French navy was one of them. Building on the recent innovations of a small group of officers with a passion for underwater exploration, it had the benefit of a unique expertise concentrated at the GERS (Groupement d’Étude et de Recherche Sous-marine - Underwater Study and Research Group). It was this organisation that contacted TUDOR in 1956 to evaluate the suitability of the brand’s models for equipping the French navy’s combat swimmers. What followed was over half a century of TUDOR watches on the wrists of divers from the largest navies in the world. Today, the TUDOR collection comprises a number of references whose aesthetics allude to this heritage, with models either directly inspired by divers’ watches famously used by military divers, or presenting an allegory of life at sea. For vintage watch enthusiasts, blue TUDOR divers’ watches are inextricably linked to the French Navy. In the mid-1970s, this institution, which had trusted TUDOR to deliver robust, technical watches for nearly 20 years, opted for blue. For several years, the brand had offered a blue alternative to the classic black dial typical of the divers’ watches of the time. This feature, coupled with the specific inscriptions engraved on the back (M.N. together with the last two digits of the year of issue), which evoked a life of aquatic adventure, made these watches, dubbed “TUDOR MN”, extremely popular among collectors. It is to these models, and this period, that Black Bay Fifty-Eight “Navy Blue” alludes. In addition to the matt navy blue color of its dial and bezel, this model also adopts the proportions of this generation of watches. With its 39-millimetre diameter, it is ideal for narrow wrists, for those who prefer a smaller watch and, of course, for vintage enthusiasts. Its configuration on a fabric strap, also in navy blue and woven in France using traditional techniques, is the strongest visual evocation of
WATCHES
the famous “TUDOR MN”s. These watches were in fact delivered to the French navy without TUDOR bracelets and were then fitted with various types of fabric straps, particularly woven ones. The 1960s will go down in history as a period of heightened innovation, culminating in the conquest of the moon. At that time, watchmaking generally and TUDOR in particular were experiencing the same creative impetus, of which the “Commando project” is the greatest example. In 1967 the brand, which had been supplying the American navy with divers’ watches since the second half of the 1950s, began developing a technical model to replace the Oyster Prince Submariner 7928 reference supplied at that time. This new watch needed to meet a set of specifications laid down by the American government and incorporated the results of the latest research into functionality and ergonomics carried out by the brand’s engineers. A development phase was launched, resulting in the production of prototypes, as well as a patent for a hitherto unseen function. “Commando” was the code name of this ambitious project that was perfectly in tune with the zeitgeist. The Black Bay P01 model - meaning Prototype 1 - is directly inspired by a prototype developed as part of this study and preserved within the TUDOR archives. Half a century later, this series brings to life its unique functional appearance, where function and innovation took priority over any consideration of the watchmaking aesthetics in fashion at that time. Produced in a contemporary spirit, while at the same time retaining the principle of the winding crown at 4 o’clock, as well as the prominent lug covers of the 1960s model, the Black Bay P01 tells a story that was hitherto little known in TUDOR’s naval history. In the end, the US Navy chose to equip its divers with a simpler TUDOR model, the Oyster Prince Submariner 7016, and the “Commando” project was halted at the prototype stage. With its proportions, overall shape, gold accents on the dial, and red triangle on the rotating bezel, the Black Bay Fifty-Eight is probably the TUDOR model closest, in terms of aesthetics, to the brand’s first divers’ watches and the first models adopted
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by the French and US Navies in the second halfof the 1950s. At the time, one particular reference had been chosen by the two organisations, the famous 7924, now known among collectors as the “Big Crown” due to its prominent winding crown, a strengthened version of TUDOR’s regular winding crown to be able to offer water-resistance to 200 metres for the first time. Without being a faithful reproduction of this reference, the Black Bay Fifty-Eight model interprets its spirit, evoking the aesthetics of the pioneering years of autonomous diving. In its configuration with a fabric strap, it recalls the military divers’ custom of wearing their watches on different types of straps or belts, sometimes taken from other field equipment (see Black Bay Bronze). The Black Bay Bronze model does not allude to any particular watch in TUDOR’s naval history. Rather, it presents a number of aesthetic nods to the rustic nature of life at sea and makes reference to anecdotes about the way generations of sailors have used TUDOR watches. Starting with its fabric strap: following a parachuting incident during which a member of the French navy’s diver-paratrooper unit was momentarily left dangling from the plane door by his fabric watch strap, the group decided to produce their own, more supple bracelets using elastic straps recycled from the emergency opening system of the rescue parachutes they used at that time. This strap presented a central yellow stripe, which is now found on the fabric strap of the Black Bay Bronze model. In the same spirit, the bronze used for the model’s case, a high-performance cupro-aluminium alloy widely used in naval engineering for submerged parts and required to demonstrate a high level of resistance to corrosion, further evokes naval activity. The nature of this metal guarantees the development of a subtle and unique patina to match its user’s habits. The overall visual effect is of a rich, patinated object that might have battled the waves of the seven seas for years on a sailor’s wrist, and which is “made” for him and his lifestyle.
04 Tudor Black Bay Fifty-Eight Navy Blue 05, 06 The Black Bay Bronze
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WATCHES
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WORLD OF Time
Fifteen years after the launch of the Lange 1 Time Zone, which indicates time at home and in another time zone at a glance, it has now been endowed with a new manufacture calibre. Ring-shaped day/night indicators assure good legibility and the new daylight-saving time indication is a useful addition.
In precision watchmaking, the “second time zone” function is a particularly convenient complication, especially because more and more people travel, work and communicate intercontinentally. For them, A. Lange & Söhne had already introduced a watch with two time zones in 2005. It was based on the Lange 1 and comfortably displayed the time in 24 time zones. The new version of the LANGE 1 TIME ZONE combines functionality with eminent legibility and superb craftsmanship. Its personality is characterized by an asymmetric dial with two time displays, an outsize date and a power-reserve indicator. And it retains the switchable city ring that allows convenient setting of the second time zone. In contrast to world time watches, the LANGE 1 TIME ZONE provides the time at home and the time in a second zone at a glance. While the larger time circle shows home time, the smaller of the two time circles can be set to a second time zone by adjusting the city ring. When the time is adjusted with the crown, both displayed times are corrected simultaneously.
One of the key innovations is that the day/night indicators for home time and zone time, originally displayed with rotating arrow hands, have been shifted to the centres of the two time circles. There, together with the hour hand, they inform the user whether the time indication applies to the first or second half of the day. The ring-shaped day/night indicators are not only harmoniously designed, they are also intuitively readable. Featuring blue printed semicircles, the discs rotate once about their axes in 24 hours while the hour hand performs two revolutions in the same period. When it is located in the dial-colour segment, the display spans the period from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. and on the blue background from 6 p.m. to 6 a.m. The new LANGE 1 TIME ZONE has another convenient feature. It is located in a small aperture of the golden arrow applique at 5 o’clock that indicates the reference location for the zone time that has been set. If the aperture is red, the respective city has a daylight saving time regime. If standard time applies to the city all year round, the display appears on a bright background. This feature is technically implemented with coding on the underside of the city ring.
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“Featuring blue printed semicircles, the discs rotate
once about their axes in 24 hours while the hour hand performs two revolutions in the same period.” 01 Flare and functionality come together in this distinct timepiece
03 The LANGE 1 TIME ZONE combines functionality and superb craftsmanship
02 The new LANGE 1 TIME ZONE is replete with convenient features
A feature retained from the predecessor model is the convenient adjustment of the second time zone based on a switchable city ring with 24 time zones. They were defined in 1884 and are represented by 24 reference locations. The new model also retains the unique synchronisation mechanism that makes it possible to transfer zone time from the smaller to the larger dial. With the new manufacture calibre L141.1, all models of the LANGE 1 watch family that were originally based on the calibre L901 are now endowed with new movements. The most recent one reflects the experience accrued with the development of 65 calibres so far. The dimensions of the new LANGE 1 TIME ZONE remain unchanged. The case has a diameter of 41.9 millimetres and a height of 10.9 millimetres. The LANGE 1 TIME ZONE comes in three case/dial combinations: white gold/black, pink gold/argenté, and - in a limited edition of 100 - yellow gold/champagne. alange-soehne.com
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WATCHES
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Matched to Perfection Pursuing Audemars Piguet’s commitment to fostering dialogues among creative fields, the Swiss Haute Horlogerie manufacturer is partnering with British luxury fashion house, Ralph & Russo, bringing together two family-owned companies driven by a strong spirit of independence and dedication to age-old craftsmanship, creativity and reinvention. To mark the beginning of their partnership, Audemars Piguet will join Ralph & Russo on the catwalk this October at Paris Fashion Week as the house unveils its Spring/Summer 2021 Prêt-à-Porter collection, complemented by the watchmaker’s latest Royal Oak and Royal Oak Concept models. All in attendance of this joint event celebrated within the industry and beyond will discover unique pairings of each brand’s latest collections that mirror one another in savoir-faire and refinement. To complete Ralph & Russo’s Prêt-à-Porter collection, Audemars Piguet presents its latest Royal Oak Selfwinding models in 34 mm conceived for the smaller wrists. This new line includes 4 models in stainless steel and/or 18-carat pink gold which will appeal to different styles. The 18-carat pink gold model is adorned with a diamond-set bezel and a silver-toned guilloché “Grande Tapisserie” dial. The dial’s guilloché design-which has become one of the Royal Oak’s trademarks-is achieved through a complex manufacturing process based on a rare in-house know-how no longer taught in horology school,
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01 The two-tone Royal Oak Selfwinding 34mm model combines a stainless steel case and bracelet with an 18-carat pink gold bezel and bracelet links 02 The encounter between Ralph & Russo and Audemars Piguet will provide an exclusive lens into the natural synergies between the world of Haute Horlogerie and luxury fashion 03 Available in 18-carat pink or white gold, the new Royal Oak Concept Flying Tourbillon has a shimmering Frosted Gold finish case and a contemporary dial composed of multiple layers
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but passed down across generations at Audemars Piguet. Little squares are carved out on the dial’s thin metal plate by an engraving machine dating back to the 1970s that reproduces the motif of a stencil. Small lozenges are simultaneously cut out in the thin grooves separating the squares in a seamless “weave” that creates a tapestry appearance. This process requires extreme dexterity and precision. Ralph & Russo’s new collection is further enhanced by a new take on the Royal Oak Concept Flying Tourbillon, which pursues the Royal Oak Concept’s interweaving of refined feminine aesthetics and complicated micro-mechanics. Available in 18-carat pink or white gold, the new Royal Oak Concept Flying Tourbillon combines the case’s shimmering Frosted Gold finish with a contemporary dial composed of multiple layers. For the first time, the Royal Oak Concept’s case is adorned with Frosted Gold-an ancient Florentine jewellery technique revisited by jewellery designer Carolina Bucci and adapted to adorn the Manufacture’s watches. Tiny indentations are created on the gold surface with a diamondtipped tool, giving a sparkle effect similar to that of precious stones, like diamond dust. Superposed to the bezel’s polished bevels, this finishing highlights the watch’s design codes, while capturing attention from a distance. The two highly contemporary models are adorned with a blue “large square-scale” alligator strap for an elegant contrast. The strap is complemented with a folding clasp adorned with Frosted Gold for a Couture look to the slightest detail. audemarspiguet.com 02
WATCHES
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September 2020
“Minimalist applied hour markers bring
quiet poise to this discreet and perfectly balanced design.”
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Launched in 2016 on the 20th anniversary of Chopard Manufacture, the L.U.C Perpetual Twin is recognized for its combination of puristpleasing Haute Horlogerie and the practicality of an automatic steel wristwatch designed to be worn every day. Indeed, it remains the only chronometer-certified perpetual calendar in stainless steel currently on the market, a reflection of Chopard’s absolute commitment to superior quality in every watch it makes. Chopard now presents this modern timepiece once more in robust stainless steel, with a newlyrefined dial in a rich and urbane shade of blue. Additionally, the L.U.C Perpetual Twin is presented for the first time in 18-carat rose gold, with a subtle grey dial. Both dials emphasize tonal contrasts through sunray satin-brush finishes. This forms a setting for a display in which information is presented with elegance and absolute clarity. A big date forms the focal point of the layout, with sub-dials for the perpetual calendar day, month and leap year indications, and small seconds at 6 o’clock.
Minimalist applied hour markers bring quiet poise to this discreet and perfectly balanced design. Visible beneath a sapphire crystal caseback, the movement powering the L.U.C Perpetual Twin, mechanical automatic calibre L.U.C 96.22-L, is a work of true technical and artisanal mastery. Hand-made by Chopard’s skilled watchmakers, it exhibits the finest traditions of hand-finishing, and has been certified as a chronometer by the experts of Contrôle Officiel Suisse des Chronomètres (COSC) - a rare distinction for perpetual calendar watches, and one that guarantees utmost precision and reliability. Chopard’s watchmakers also ensured that elegance is built into the watch from the calibre outwards, thanks to a 22-carat gold micro-rotor that sits within the plane of the movement, keeping the entire mechanism to just 6 mm in depth. Chopard Twin Technology, meanwhile, employs dual barrels to deliver an extended power reserve of 65 hours, meaning that the watch will continue running when left untouched for over two-and-a-half days. The L.U.C Perpetual Twin is in every way
the watch of the modern gentleman - a quietly sophisticated statement of culture and elegance, for the man who naturally advocates for art, aesthetics, handcraft and style. And as such, it is a timepiece conveying the essence of Chopard watchmaking: a refined celebration of the watchmaker’s art, that is both distinctive and utterly discreet. Movement construction, product design, gold smelting, case stamping and machining, movement components, traditional hand-crafted decorations, surface treatments, polishing, assembly, movement adjustment and quality control: all operations involved in watch production are performed in-house by Chopard Manufacture. The Maison applies them to the making of each timepiece in the L.U.C collection paying tribute to the founder whose initials it bears: Louis-Ulysse Chopard. Profoundly attached to the pure lines and subtle details that made his watches such highly sought-after items, Louis-Ulysse Chopard already knew how to attire gentlemen with beautiful pocket-watches back in his day. chopard.com
Practical and Poetic This year, Chopard is presenting its celebrated perpetual calendar, the chronometer-certified L.U.C Perpetual Twin, in two stand-out versions in rose gold and stainless steel that offer gentleman connoisseurs a new expression of artful style and horological finesse. 02
01 Elegance is built into the watch from the calibre outwards 02 This modern timepiece is presented in robust stainless steel 03 The L.U.C Perpetual Twin is presented for the first time in 18-carat rose gold 04 A distinct timepiece that conveys the essence of Chopard watchmaking
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WATCHES
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September 2020
Playing with Depth
Complex and elusive, the geometry of the Big Bang Sang Bleu II is strikingly balanced. For its creator, Maxime Plescia-Bßchi, it evokes a simplicity. With this new iteration, the talented grapho-typo-tatooartist reminds us that white is the starting point of all creations: a neutral basis that highlights the artist’s mastering of shape and form.
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“ The addition of the chronograph
function strengthens the watch’s original way of telling the time without altering its readability.” 01 The new Big Bang Sang Bleu II 02 Hexagons, rhombuses, and triangles come together to create a distinct design 03 The Unico manufacture HUB1240 automatic chronograph movement is revealed by a skeleton dial
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Maxime Plescia-Büchi has a confident stroke, a perfect line, a vision composed of perspectives, in which every point seems to naturally converge towards the other to sketch out forms that are as hypnotic as they are architectural. Behind all the angles, the facets and the lines of the Big Bang Sang Bleu II, the master tattooist has made incisions into and chiseled at the material, from the case to the hexagonal bezel, from the sapphire glass to the hands. The 45-mm diameter watch reveals the perfection and balance of forms, and recalls the gaze and the gesture of an aesthete. While recognizing the spirit of squaring the circle, which brought to life the first watch born from collaboration between Hublot and Sang Bleu, the Big Bang Sang Bleu II invites hexagons, rhombuses and triangles to play with the round form in threedimensions. The addition of the chronograph function strengthens the watch’s original way of telling the time without altering its readability. The key to Maxime Pleschia-Büchi’s style is the balance and harmony of the lines that he draws on time just
as he does on skin. The interplay of polished and satin-finished materials accentuates the monumental architecture of the piece, while the alternations in geometric forms, which adorn each of the watch’s spaces, tell the time all the way to its mechanism. The Unico manufacture HUB1240 automatic chronograph movement is revealed by a skeleton dial and an open back. The stopwatch seconds leap onto the rectilinear hand while the stopwatch minutes finish their race on one of the dial’s two discs. Its pulsations beat at the rhythm of 28,800 vibrations per hour for 72 hours. In terms of material, it is again made from titanium and King Gold, with some models set with diamonds, and is accompanied by a white rubber strap with black rolled-edges fitted with the patented One Click system. The new Big Bang Sang Bleu II is the watchmaking twin of tattooing: with timeless precision, it is the result of a fusion between materials and the geometric mastery of the Sang Bleu founder. hublot.com
WATCHES
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September 2020
TOP of the Wave The tide has already come crashing in this winter in Switzerland, bringing with it three brash new models in the Ulysse Nardin DIVER collection. After the November launch of the DIVER X & LADY DIVER, Ulysse Nardin is now emerging with the latest chapter in the DIVER story: three new, bold 44 mm chronographs: a black and titanium version, a UN-blue and rose gold version and a blue & red and titanium Hammerhead Shark special numbered edition. These striking models cap the wave of the Ulysse Nardin armada of DIVER watches, reasserting its uncontestable status as the watchmaker of the oceans and demonstrating the Manufacture’s capacity to sail ever forward. The hero of the new rollout, placed firmly at the top of the last “DIVER wave”, is the new Hammerhead Shark Limited Edition, a model strong enough to have earned the title “sharkproof”. Named for the unusual and distinctive structure of their heads, Hammerhead sharks are consummate predators that use their oddly “hammer” shaped heads to improve their ability to find prey. This limited-edition slam-dunk only 300 pieces - features a hammerhead shark engraved on its case back, a clever nod to its big brothers, the Diver Great White 44mm and the Diver Blue Shark 42mm. A special grid pattern engraved behind the shark’s wide-open mouth reinforces the aggressivity of the animal for a more stylish and masculine effect. In addition, the shark is now shown frontally and not in profile, for a bold and more assertive look. Embracing the “hammerhead” tradition at Ulysse Nardin the brand has been developing iconic “blue & red hammerhead editions” for a few years now - this new chronograph is also powered by the UN-150 automatic manufacture movement with a silicium
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“These striking models cap the
wave of the Ulysse Nardin armada of DIVER watches, reasserting its uncontestable status as the watchmaker of the oceans and demonstrating the Manufacture’s capacity to sail ever forward.”
escapement and 48 hours power reserve. Touches of red are everywhere: from the bezel joint, the chronograph seconds hand, the start/stop/reset pushers and finally the rubber strap with a red hammerhead shark sculpted in the rubber at 12 o’clock. The unique side plate is also engraved with red numbers. For the Diver Chronograph 44mm, Black & Titanium model the case, the sapphire case-back, the bezel and the UN “element” are manufactured in titanium with black rubberized bezel. On the watch face, a couple of elements are colorized in red such as the central second hand. All the essential diver codes are here: ultra-resistant sapphire crystal, screwed crown, Superluminova on the 0, inverted rotating bezel for at-a-glance readability from the murkiest depths, and water resistance to 300 meters. Strap options are variable: rubber strap, metal bracelet or Fabric strap with closing scratch. For the Diver Chronograph 44mm, Blue & Rose Gold model, the case, the sapphire caseback, the bezel and the UN “element” are all manufactured in 5N rose gold. The hands, the UN anchor logo and the bezel indexes are also rose gold colored. All the essential diver symbols are here: ultra-resistant sapphire crystal, screwed crown, Superluminova on the 0, inverted rotating bezel for at-a-glance readability from the murkiest depths; and water resistance to 300 meters. Strap options are variable: rubber strap, metal bracelet or Fabric strap with closing scratch.
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01, 02, 03 The new Hammerhead Shark Limited Edition
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HAPPY SPORT COLLECTION
FRAGRANCES - MEN
Fresh and bold
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An eclectic mix of stimulating fragrances and intoxicating aromas guaranteed to make a statement. For men. Cartier Pasha de Cartier Eau de Toilette Launched in 1992, the Pasha de Cartier Eau de Toilette became the symbol of an era, with a hedonistic trail that explores all the facets of lavender: aromatic, mineral, ozonic. A sophisticated, sensual fougère accord, this new edition of the Pasha de Cartier fragrance features depth and warmth from the addition of amber. The fullness emerges and the heat spreads, woody like a crackling fire, smooth with sandalwood notes. A scent in keeping with today’s generation, a talented community who owes its success to bold choices. Their creative and expansive vision of the world allows this exceptional pairing. A great classic, the Pasha de Cartier perfume, is partnered with an utterly contemporary and off-beat allure. cartier.com
Dolce&Gabbana k by Dolce&Gabbana K by Dolce&Gabbana Eau de Parfum builds on the legacy of the Eau de Toilette with a sensual new scent that embodies the spirit of a man who chooses his destiny with passion and confidence. Inspired by the earthy, rugged landscape of Tuscany, renowned perfumers Daphné Bugey and Nathalie Lorson have reinterpreted the original fragrance to evoke the intense and magnetic sides of this king of everyday life. While the Eau de Toilette created a crescendo of citruses, ignited by fiery aromatics and underpinned by noble woods, K by Dolce&Gabbana Eau de Parfum now reveals a new spiciness, a more sensual heart, and a stronger woody base. dolcegabbana.com
September 2020
Paco Rabanne 1 Million Parfum 1 MILLION Parfum. Same charisma. Same allure. Same attitude. Same fragrance signature. The scent: a floral leather with solar strength. A flamboyant new take on 1 MILLION by Christophe Raynaud and Quentin Bisch. Their mission: to imagine the new generation of 1 MILLION. The result: A light bath. A heat wave. A sensuality overdose. Where leather meets flowers, in the mid-summer. The impression of a slightly salty skin warmed by the sun. pacorabanne.com
Guerlain L’homme Idéal Extrême For this all-new interpretation of L’Homme Idéal, Guerlain Perfumer Thierry Wasser decided to explore almond - L’Homme Idéal’s original olfactory signature - via an entirely new range of facets. At the heart of the composition lies powerful oriental and woody notes which are bolstered by daring hints of spice and warm, charismatic notes of tobacco. It’s a concentrate filled with everything that makes L’Homme Idéal as elegant, bold and deep as it is. in short, it captures the essence of a multi-talented man. guerlain.com
Yves Saint Laurent L’homme Le Parfum A rich blend of precious ambery woods and full-bodied cedar, LE PARFUM is the most couture expression of L’HOMME’s effortless masculinity. The new fragrance joins the best-selling range launched in 2006 with the epochal L’HOMME EAU DE TOILETTE, a contemporary vision of the 21st century man in all his facets, matching edgy metallic notes with tender violet leaf and sensual tonka bean with the strength of wood. This new woody signature expresses the elegance and refinement of a daytime fragrance, when LA NUIT DE L’HOMME, LE PARFUM is the darkest and most seductive version of sensual spice and amber accords of LA NUIT DE L’HOMME, EAU DE TOILETTE. ysl.com
FRAGRANCES - WOMEN
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September 2020
Alluring Fragrances An eclectic mix of stimulating fragrances and intoxicating aromas guaranteed to make a statement. For women.
Chanel Le Lion de Chanel Naturally, a few sparkling citrus notes — lemon, bergamot — bring the essential burst befitting to the first moments of a great fragrance. Only a few seconds are needed for the shimmering gold fragrance to unfurl the warmth of its oriental imprint. An ambery accord tamed by the perfumer-creator’s skill and faceted like the thousand-and-one faces of the lion in the world of CHANEL. Its heart of cistus labdanum, a lively resin with animal notes, is tamed with a custom-crafted essence. Smoothed of its rough edges, it concentrates the ambery, velvety effects that gradually verge on leather, while an infusion of vanilla from Madagascar exalts the quintessential ingredient of oriental fragrances. chanel.com
Narciso Rodriguez Pure Musc for Her The iconic for her fragrance collection presents sublime sensuality in a transcendent new composition with the designer’s signature rare musc at the heart of the scent. Over fifteen years ago, Rodriguez had a bold dream for his first fragrance: to create a luminous floral bouquet from this rare musc accord. His dream fragrance became for her eau de toilette, a masterful blend of his signature heart of musc with floral, amber and woody facets that is now a modern classic known for its uniquely addictive qualities. narcisorodriguez.com
Givenchy L’interdit Eau De Parfum Intense The white bouquet exults, more hypnotic and textured than before. The original orange blossom welcomes a more transgressive, furiously addictive tuberose which intensifies a bewitching accord. The woody base turns oriental with smoky, underground notes from vetiver and patchouli, and reveals more voluptuous notes through a suave and intense vanilla bean, prominently flourishing in the fragrance. A cold-extraction process used on Madagascar vanilla beans ensures an exceptionally high-quality result. The leather and amber facets of this black gold hypnotize, captivating the senses. Its magnetism brings the fragrance to life, blending together with the unexpected salty notes of toasted black sesame absolute. givenchy.com
Guerlain L’Initial A fresh awakening, a bright and fresh interpretation, a showcase of Shalimar’s signature iris, vanilla and bergamot ingredients. As an oriental floral, L’Initial sparkles with orange and bergamot citrus zest under a shower of highly perfumed jasmine petals. Its heart opens with large doses of Turkish Rose absolute and Pallida iris, while its full, soft and tender base delights with rich vanilla covered in delectable caramel, hints of almond and delicately smooth Tonka bean. All encapsulated in misty clouds of white musk. Sensuality at its most innocent. guerlain.com
Yves Saint Laurent Libre A couture twist on a classically masculine style, Libre is built from topquality materials crafted for Yves Saint Laurent. In this made-to-measure palette, the key natural ingredients of the fragrance were deconstructed, and then reconstructed through cutting-edge techniques to liberate the quintessence of each note. ysl.com
FRAGRANCES - UNISEX
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Sophisticated Scents
A scintillating selection of unisex fragrances that captivate the senses and make a lasting impression.
Acqua di Parma Colonia The iconic fragrance embodies the quintessential Italian sense of lightness and sophistication, reflected by a harmonious blend of floral essences. The eau de cologne Colonia by Acqua di Parma is timeless, well-loved and enduring. This iconic fragrance crafted from sunny Sicilian citrus fruits is an elegant and fresh embodiment of the best of Italy. With a citrusy floral heart from a lavender and damask rose blend, the refined scent of this eau de cologne is rounded off with woody notes of vetiver, sandalwood and patchouli at the base. acquadiparma.com
Byredo Velvet Haze Splash on Byredo Velvet Haze Eau De Parfum and escape into a dreamlike state of pure opulence with this stunning personal fragrance from the renowned Swedish brand. Refreshing and exciting, this unisex scent takes its inspiration from a 1960’s aesthetic. Both earthy and refreshing, it is infused with notes of patchouli oil, wild musk, coconut water and ambrette. In the dry down you’ll sense just a hint of smoke infused with the richness of chocolate. This highlywearable fragrance maybe nostalgic, but there’s an air of modernity about it that speaks of confidence and opportunity. Byredo Velvet Haze Eau De Parfum is packaged in a spray bottle, allowing for generous applications to be swept on over bare skin or clothing. Byredo Velvet Haze Eau De Parfum is a plush personal fragrance that includes hints of patchouli, cocoa, musk and coconut that has been formulated for both men and women. byredo.com
September 2020
Guerlain Muguet While the beginning of spring is known for the gentle sway of the lily of the valley’s little white bells, when it comes to scent, the flower is much more delicate, difficult and unyielding in its beauty, and does not reveal itself in the way that rose or jasmine does. Perfumers have however managed to unleash its secrets and recreate its characteristic scent. In 1908 Jacques Guerlain picked it to create the House’s first lily of the valley fragrance, creating Guerlain’s Muguet, a powdery scent with beautiful iris notes. In 1998, Jean-Paul Guerlain created his own version, followed by Thierry Wasser in 2016, whose composition has bloomed every year since. At the top, zesty bergamot fizzes, followed by plenty of fresh green vegetal notes. Meanwhile, the fragrance’s heart boasts a distinctly floral lily of the valley character accented with hints of rose and jasmine. guerlain.com
Rasasi Qasamat Rasana Rasasi, the leading regional perfume house, has added the alluring unisex scent Qasamat Rasana to its already best-selling Qasamat collection. Qasamat Rasana boasts fresh fruity top notes of Bergamot, Lemon and Apple. It’s unique woody middle notes of Leather, Sandalwood and Cypriol are the enduring heart of the fragrance while base notes of Amber, Cedarwood, Musk and Agarwood ensure a scent that lasts all day. This perfect creation that is crafted from the best quality ingredients sourced from across the globe guarantees to make a lasting impression. rasasi.com
Henry Jacques Les Brumes Correspondance, Chalain, and Xantor Henry Jacques has introduced three more iconic fragrances to its Les Brumes line: Correspondance, Chalain and Xantor. A lighter expression of its signature and most loved line of essences, Les Brumes offer a more casual and modern way of enjoying great perfumery with a unique ‘Splash & Spray’ convertible flacon. Previously available only in the more traditional form of Essences, Correspondance, Chalain and Xantor now take on a fresh dynamic thanks to the new Les Brumes variation - feeling brighter and more airy, while still possessing the strong heart that makes every Henry Jacques creation so distinctive. parfumshenryjacques.com
MAKEUP
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September 2020
BEAUTY TRENDS The latest cosmetics from the most luxurious brands for that perfect pout. Chanel Les Beiges Summer of Glow It’s the promise of an airy and dazzling summer. The delicious caress of sunlight on skin beaded with seawater. A feeling of freedom, instilled by a sailboat gliding along the coast against the Mediterranean. Inspired by the relaxed lifestyle of the French Riviera, Les Beiges sets sail this season with an exclusive collection: Summer of Glow. Les Beiges Summer of Glow shakes up summer with a powerful breeze of freedom. Luminous, it is an infusion of beloved summer light. Delectable warmth on the skin. Lightweight, inspired by the aura and free spirit of Mademoiselle Chanel, this new collection has only one goal in mind: a sun-kissed healthy glow that seems revived by the great outdoors. Lips and eyes are illuminated by warm shades with coral shimmers and energy that shines down to the fingernails in summery colors. chanel.com
Georgio Armani Luminous Silk Foundation 20th Anniversary Encapsulating Giorgio Armani’s vision of beauty, Luminous Silk Foundation celebrates its 20th anniversary, and with it two decades of a natural, flawless look and a perfected, silky glow. The iconic Lumunous Silk Foundation takes inspiration from charmeuse silk. With a weightless texture, its translucent finish reveals the complexion’s inner light. Marking the 20th anniversary occasion, Giorgio Armani expands the Luminous Silk range introducing Luminous Silk Multi-Purpose Concealer. The new versatile concealer, infused with the signature Luminous Silk radiance, conceals, highlights or erases for a flawless result. Presented in twenty shades, there is a Luminous Silk Multi-Purpose Concealer to suit each skin tone and undertone. armani.com
Marc Jacobs Beauty At Lash’d From the brand that brought you the infamous Velvet Noir Mascara, Marc Jacobs Beauty introduces the new gold standard of lashes: new at lash’d mascara for extreme length and curl, plus epic definition. Inspired by Marc’s love of an expressive eye, At Lash’d is joined by a luxe limited gold edition collection of gilded eye-conic shadows and highliner hues. marcjacobsbeauty.com
Gucci Limited-Edition Rouge À Lèvres Satin Following the success of Rouge à Lèvres Satin lipstick launch, Gucci Beauty adds to this line with three limited-edition lipsticks. Specially conceived by Alessandro Michele to complete the collection with elegant fresh satin colors, the shades are inspired by Hollywood’s stars from the Golden Age, with their lips expressing sensuality, charm and influence. These three new colors, in shades of orange, red, and pink, will bring a touch of freshness to summer make-up looks and will be available worldwide July 2020. With its creamy formula and intense color, Rouge à Lèvres Satin lipstick delivers a perfect and long-lasting finish. It leaves lips smooth and soft, and is lightweight with a comfortable feel. gucci.com
Dolce&Gabbana Solar Glow Capturing the essence of a healthy, luminous Mediterranean glow, and inspired by the colorful spirit of Sicily and the wild exuberance of the island’s landscapes, Solar Glow is a vibrant and joyful collection bringing to life a modern, solar and Mediterranean femininity. From the healthy glow of the Mediterranean to the vivid colors of the Solar Glow packaging, the products are linked to some of Dolce&Gabbana’s iconic patterns, which convey energy and joy for life. With its choice of fresh to warm glow, and suitable for all skin tones, the Solar Glow products enable the complexion to be enhanced with illumination, color and bronzing all year long. www.dolcegabbana.com
MAKEUP
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September 2020
Kiko Milano Lost In Amalfi The new Kiko Milano Lost In Amalfi Collection is a beauty lineup fusing Italian quality with the vibrant colors of traditional ceramics and citrus scents of the South. Inspired by ancient culture, impressive eye-catching landscape and the effortless simplicity of endless summer, the collection will conjure a perfect explosion of colors and scents even as fall descends with an authentic packaging inspired by majolica ceramics. Create a beauty look that plays with contrasts just like those seen in Amalfi’s sensational scenery, experimenting with light and shade for a look that last beyond summer. Choose shades of bronze, terracotta and dazzling gold that channel Amalfi’s sunkissed coastline, mixing them with pops of fuchsia, pomegranate purple and azure blue straight from the Marina Grande. kikocosmetics.com
Yves Saint Laurent Rouge Pur Couture The Slim Created by Tom Pecheux, the new season looks for Rouge Pur Couture The Slim features trailblazing leather matte lipstick that gives full coverage with six new fiery shades that burn all night. In its ultra-slim, square cut bullet, which gives perfect precision application, it’s a classic, couture, yet effortlessly cool lip accessory, in a stand-out gold and black case. The collection includes No 26 – Rouge Mirage, a bright red that’s both wearable and original; No 27 – Conflicting Crimson, rich burgundy shade that brings a sense of drama; No 28 – True Chili, brown red subversion in a lip-shade; No 29 – Coral Revolt, coral orange tone that gives a pop of color; No 30 – Nude Protest, a rich chocolate-brown; and No 31 – Inflammatory Nude, a peachy nude tone to polish a natural look. yslbeautyus.com
Seef Mall +973 1758 1911
sporthorizons
FASHION
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FEMININE STRENGTH The Biyan Fall Winter 2020 collection mixes romantic flair and adventure with old glamour and a dash of modernism.
The mood draws the complexity of a woman, one time she is firm, the next she is not afraid of showing her delicate emotion. You will find her very powerful, and in a blink, she is charming and playful. Long prairie dresses with Victorian collar, frilled sleeves, mid-length dresses from a collage of laces, and embroidered gowns from layered tulle are included in the collection. Taking cue from graphic art, the silk print pieces offer light yet witty options. Pop colors like poppy red, canary yellow, cerulean blue are used with the combination of black, white, and navy blue.
Pastels such as blush and light blue are accentuated with beige, making monochromatic appearances. The collection is very feminine in nature but rich and also bold in colors, graphic patterns, and materials. Biyan Fall Winter 2020 appreciates the different qualities a woman could have, enhancing the strong character in her. Biyan is exclusively available at Saks Fifth Avenue, City Centre Bahrain. saksme.com
September 2020
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VELVET NOTES The Giorgio Armani 20/21 Fall-Winter Womenswear Collection gives the masculine and feminine a new balance.
September 2020
This season, the dialogue between the men’s and women’s wardrobe takes place in an atmosphere drenched with subdued romanticism. Over the sound of the moving notes of classical music, a vision of velvety and trembling precision emerges. The epaulettes, chevrons, and ribbing of the uniforms of literary heroes, along with the enveloping coats, small jackets with high buttoning, and knickerbockers tucked into boots, are re-interpreted in a feminine key; soft, delicate. Camouflage turns into an abstract and sparkling composition of flowers and petals, while the uniform loses its martial rigor to suggest a
more graceful demeanor. Black velvet highlights movement, marking out the rhythm in fluid silhouettes with strong shoulders. Small jackets, greatcoats, straight-leg trousers, knitted overcoats, worn with flat shoes or boots and paired with geometrically-shaped bags, sketch out a progression that in the evening gives way to long, glittering dresses. Black dominates the scene: bright rather than nocturnal, punctuated by generous dashes of pink, teal, and pearl grey. armani.com
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September 2020
UNIQUE COUTURE Mae Paris’ Spring Summer 2020 Collection is all about “Caractère”.
Mae Paris is a couture house based on a French heritage and know-how, transformed in modern shapes and style. The collections are highly influenced by the French architecture and design. Every model is a harmonious blend if the ancient and the modern. The house only uses noble fabrics, embellished with sophisticated embroideries, pearls, crystals (especially Swarovski) and precious stones. Corsets and corsages are a signature of the brand, which adds to the dresses a remarkable retro effect. The brand was first founded in 2016, and in 2019 has arrived to its current address at 66 Rue du Faubourg Saint-Honroe in Paris. mae-paris.com
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Evolution of Heritage Berluti’s Autumn Winter 2020 men’s collection is a generational dialogue between tradition and change.
September 2020
For Autumn-Winter 2020, Berluti intensifies and abstracts its own heritage in a free-spirited proposal for our time. Imagining what the maison’s century-old archives – entrenched in expert shoemaking – would look like had they encompassed tailoring, artistic director Kris Van Assche stages an exaggerated exchange between past and present. The conclusion is eccentric: an electric reaction rooted in our moment in time when dress codes liquify and expressions amplify.
Classical and contemporary co-exist with a blue slate suit that sets the scene. It is loosened in silhouette, worn with a crimson roll neck rather than a suit-and-tie, and bright blue and red sneakers. A soft weekend bag in Berluti’s new Signature Canvas nonchalantly holds a pair of classic Alessandro patina oxfords. No longer a question of either or, the formal harmonizes with the sporty. berluti.com
BAGS
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Destination-Inspired DESIGN One&Only Resorts is celebrating the art of travel by launching the exclusive, One&Only Heritage Collection by Jay Ahr, a limited edition of customdesigned vintage Louis Vuitton Keepalls that blend timeless travel and distinctive craftmanship.
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Sourced from the 10 global resort destinations, each treasured bag has been hand-picked and transformed with the highest quality embroidery that Jay Ahr is renowned for. The bespoke designs are inspired by the local heritage, celebrating each destination. Every authentic Louis Vuitton Keepall is traced to its provenance, and informs a design that continues to tell a story. Only two bags have been designed for each resort, each completely distinct in design, and are exclusively available for purchase from One&Only. With a consistent yet evolving appreciation for fashion, One&Only has partnered with several high calibre designers over the years - from Alice Temperley and Christian Louboutin to Missoni and Knowlita - to create exclusive items for the resorts’ discerning guests. Born in Paris and growing up in Brussels, Jonathan Riss spent time immersed in the work of modern and contemporary artists. Captivated by travel at a young age, he left Belgium after school for Ukraine where he developed his skills, designing fabrics and embroidery. He eventually started his own embroidery atelier in Mumbai, but longing to launch his own brand, he returned to Paris to introduce JAY AHR. Founded in 2005, JAY AHR (the name is a phonetic spelling of Riss’ initials) is a collection of bold pieces comprised of innovative fabrics and embroidery, celebrating his passion for travel, design, art and culture. Every country where there is a One&Only resort, has either a bag showcasing the national flag or the
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03 01 Each bag showcases the national flag or the representative passport of that country
03 The bespoke designs are inspired by the local heritage, celebrating each destination
02 The bags are made from Louis Vuitton’s signature monogram canvas
04 These items are sold exclusively at each One&Only around the world
representative passport of that country. A second bag is available for each resort with a design that epitomizes the inspiring location that was hand-picked for the resort, in celebration of the destination. Each resort, just as each bag, reflects the One&Only independent spirit, showcasing a passion for life and for travel. The custom re-design of these legendary bags breathes new life into every piece, meaning each one is a rare find as each has a distinct past as well as new signature and identity. Made from Louis Vuitton’s signature monogram canvas that only gets better with age, the original craftsmanship is unrivalled and the One&Only Heritage Collection of repurposed investment pieces builds on this history, transforming the legacy into a sustainable and timeless icon. Just like any good story, these collectors’ items are passed from one owner to another - a treasure never to be disposed of, but loved from one generation to the next. In addition to this very exclusive collection, Jay Ahr will be designing a capsule of luggage tag, travel pouch and travel tote bespoke for each resort. Reflecting the authentic design and celebration of each destination, each item will act as a nod to memories experienced at each One&Only resort around the world. Perfect for collectors, a badge of honor to be cherished. Each of these items are sold exclusively at each One&Only around the world. oneandonlyresorts.com
BAGS - WOMEN
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EXQUISITE STYLE Gorgeous designer hand bags to add a touch of class to your look. Gucci Horsebit 1955 bucket bag Inspired by archival designs, Gucci Horsebit 1955 bucket bag unifies the original details first introduced over six decades ago with a modern spirit, highlighting the Horsebit. Part of Gucci’s genetic code, the double ring and bar design has been established as one of the most distinctive elements among the House symbols borrowed from the equestrian world. The hardware is paired with a contemporary mix of materials and colors, combining the House’s GG canvas with textured white leather. gucci.com
Balenciaga Neo Classic Large Top Handle Bag The Neo Classic Large Top Handle Bag comes in orange semishiny crocodile embossed calfskin and aged-silver hardware. Made from 100% Calfskin, it features new structured trapezoidal shape, two leather hand-braided handles, zipped closure with knotted leather puller, tone-on-tone logo embossed on front, and front zipped pocket with knotted leather puller. balenciaga.com
September 2020
Fendi Peekaboo IseeU Medium White Leather Bag This iconic Peekaboo ISeeU bag is medium size and made of white leather, embellished with the classic twist lock on both sides. It features a pink, soft nappa leather lining visible from the outside, two compartments separated by a stiff partition, a removable inner pocket which can be customized in store and gold-finish metalware, and can be carried by hand or on the shoulder thanks to its handle and the adjustable, detachable shoulder strap. fendi.com
Prada Saffiano Leather Handbag This Saffiano leather handbag with structured silhouette stands out for its sophisticated details that embellish it. The triangle logo decorates the bag. It features Saffiano leather, double leather handle, leather name tag with key ring, detachable adjustable leather shoulder strap, metal and leather triangle logo, two-way zipper closure on top, and one inside pocket. prada.com
Bottegaveneta Small Arco This top-handle bag comes in an orthogonal maxi weave. Made from French calf leather with a natural finish, it features arc-shaped top panel with curved handles, and rolled leather handles secured with a snapbutton leather loop. Finished with a fine contrast saddle stitch, it has bonded suede interior with one zipped pocket and two open pockets. bottegaveneta.com
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September 2020
Dolce&Gabbana Small Girls Handbag in Calfskin The DG Girls line enriches every season with new models. The new small sized handbag is made of smooth calfskin and presents a semi-soft ribbed construction. It features bezels that turn on the bottom of the bag. It stands out thanks to the baroque DG logo on the front in metallized ABS. dolcegabbana.com
Versace Virtus Medium Bucket Bag The Virtus bucket bag style features top handles, a removable leather shoulder strap and flat internal pockets. The supple leather accessory is enriched with a bold symbol of the brand’s aesthetic heritage: the central gold-tone metal Barocco letter V, embellished by acanthus leaves taken from Versace’s signature motif. The Virtus bag takes its name from the Roman deity and symbolizes strength, courage, and character. versace.com
+973 77033333
lavazzabahrain
SHOES
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Stepping in Style
September 2020
Add iconic style to your luxury collection with the latest and most sought-after designer women’s shoes.
Christian Louboutin Clare Sling The Clare Sling pump has tapered lines that delicately enhance the foot. This iconic Maison Christian Louboutin shoe has a pointed toe and a low-cut upper. This calf leather shoe has a thin strap at the back and sits above an 80 mm heel. Its Jurassic black leather, which reflects the light, gives it an exotic and sophisticated note. christianlouboutin.com
Bottegaveneta BV Curve Sandals These mules come with padded Lamb Nappa Intrecciato straps and feature two-part outsoles with metallic insert in between, elongated almond toes, padded insole, stiletto heels, and rubberinjected leather soles for comfort and stability. bottegaveneta.com
Jimmy Choo LOVE 100 In multicolor ditsy-print silk with intricate crystal embroidery, these LOVE heels are ideal for chicly polishing myriad looks. This pair is designed with a dramatic point toe, and cut higher on the foot, allowing for more coverage. The thin 100mm stiletto heels elegantly lift ensembles. jimmychoo.com
Gucci Mid-heel Sandal with Double G The now recognizable silver-toned Double G detail enhances a pair of mid-heel sandals in a pastel shade of green leather. The distinctive emblem from the GG Marmont line continues to bring a defining element to signature styles. gucci.com
SHOES
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September 2020
Versace Safety Pin Leather Pumps Elegant from the AM to PM, these classic pumps are crafted from supple calf leather. The pointed toe style is embellished with signature Safety Pin hardware. versace.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
Prada Satin Mules These satin mules with medium heel have a crystal embellishment that illuminates the U-cut vamp. The feminine line of the shoe embodies timeless elegance. prada.com
Fendi Pink Tulle and Satin ColibrĂŹ Slingbacks These streamlined and feminine ColibrĂŹ slingbacks come with narrow elasticated ribbons that wrap around the foot. The sole is finished with rubber inserts. Made of pink tulle, they are embellished with tone on tone satin trim. The padded cushion and trekking shoe tab add a sporty touch. fendi.com
SUNGL ASSES
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Shades of Elegance For Men:
September 2020
The perfect sunglasses to complement your luxury lifestyle.
Berluti Lunar Rimless These sunglasses feature monogram lenses that have mirror treatment combined with a masking technique, metal temples with internal lasered Scritto, powerful tinted edges that contrast with metal structure, and solid lenses berluti.com
Dolce&Gabbana Miami These sporty-chic squared shape sunglasses are characterized by enamel details, a modern top bar, and a new metal temple. The Dolce&Gabbana signature is the protagonist on the frontal frame but also on the temple. The model comes in three colors: gold with black satin enamel and black lenses, gunmetal grey with blue satin enamel and blue lenses, and bronze with brown lenses and satin black enamel. dolcegabbana.com
Prada Linea Rossa The contemporary style of these sunglasses with mirrored lens and refined cut-out details is defined by the rectangular silhouette and wraparound design. These light, sturdy nylon fiber sunglasses are decorated with the Prada Linea Rossa logo. They feature nylon frame front in Rubberized Black and 100% UVA/UVB protection. prada.com
For Women: Burberry BE4312 The collection was featured in the Burberry Spring/ Summer 2020 runway show, Evolution, which was a celebration of new house codes influenced by the time Burberry was founded — the Victorian era. Made in Italy, these square acetate sunglasses come with ‘B’ detail, black frames with black lenses, striped tortoiseshell frames with gradient grey lenses, and Pink frames with gradient brown lenses. burberry.com
Georgio Armani AR6106 The shiny metal enhances the frame of these boldlooking glasses. The boxy lenses are distinguished by three eye-catching color shades, while the slim, elongated temples, featuring a laser-engraved signature logo, have tips created in the shape of the GA initials. Available in shiny pale gold with light brown gradient lenses and in gunmetal with smoky grey lenses. armani.com
Medusa Crystal Jewel The elegant square style of these sunglasses features a thick acetate frame. The wide temples are embellished with a three- dimensional Swarovski crystal Medusa surrounded with colorful strass. The sunglasses are available in transparent red with Siam strass and brown lenses, Havana with smoked topaz strass and brown gradient lenses, and black with crystal strass and grey lenses. versace.com
MASTERPIECE
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01 ‘Why do thoughts resemble’ 2020, 28x42 cm, digital collage and mixed media on Canson Arch 310 GSM paper 02 Zaina El Said 03 ‘Relics of a Bygone Bard’ 2020, 28x42 cm, digital collage on Canson Arch 310 GSM paper
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September 2020
ECLECTIC DREAMS Weaving stories using symbols and other intriguing aesthetics, Zaina El Said’s creations are truly remarkable. Drawing from her passion for folklore and mythology, she constructs surrealist collages that leap outside the boundaries of reality, taking you on a journey of narrative exploration. Durrah explores the influences, inspirations, and artistic process of the Jordan-based artist.
WHEN DID YOU DISCOVER YOUR LOVE OF COLLAGE ART? WAS IT DIFFICULT MAKING THE SWITCH FROM PAINTING AT FIRST?
WHAT MATERIAL DO YOU USE WHEN YOU CREATE? ARE THERE PARTICULAR ITEMS YOU PREFER?
It was about two years after I began painting that I learnt about collage art, and specifically the Dadaism movement. I was attracted to the eclectic nature of collage art, and the absolute freedom in visually narrating an idea. There were no rules, specific time, or space that can identify the work. I think this is what attracted me the most, hence there was no difficulty in switching from painting to collage.
I usually work on Photoshop, but I also do handmade collage, and at times incorporate digital and handmade collage together. I love using different textures and mediums. Gold and silver leaf are among my very favorites. I also love using thick relief paint to give depth and texture.
WHAT KIND OF THEMES DOES YOUR ART EXPLORE?
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I love revealing the idea of cultural cohesion in my work. I usually try to incorporate elements from world cultures into a single narrative, to show beauty and harmony through contrast and differences. Additionally, I like to explore ideas that are unfamiliar to the eye, especially bygone folk concepts such shapeshifting, animism, humans conversing with nature and animals, as well as presenting historical figures in a different form.
ON AVERAGE, HOW LONG DOES IT TAKE YOU TO COMPLETE A COLLAGE? WAS THERE ONE PARTICULARLY DEMANDING PROJECT? It really depends on the type and size. Some works can take a few days and others may take up to two weeks. It usually takes longer when I’m preparing for a series to be exhibited. This demands much effort in terms of finding enough resources and imagery to create a whole collection.
WHAT IS THE BIGGEST MISCONCEPTION PEOPLE HAVE ABOUT COLLAGE ART?
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04 ‘Afra & Htayl’ 2019, 28x42 cm Digital Collage and gold leaf on Canson Arch 310 GSM paper 05 ‘Life through a Rainbow Lense’ 2020, 28x42 cm, Digital Collage and mixed media on Canson Arch 310 GSM paper 06 ‘Abazin’ 2020, 60x84cm, digital collage and silver leaf on Canson Arch 310 GSM paper
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I think the biggest misconception is that collage art is not regarded as real art. Many people think because it’s a ‘cut and paste’ process, that one literally just does that, when in fact, it’s just as intricate as any form of art and painting. It requires a lot of calculation, patience, insight, and process to understand how different images can create a coherent body of artwork.
WHERE DO YOU FIND INSPIRATION? I read a lot of world mythology and oral folk, and love archeology and world cultures architecture, patterns, and embroidery. They are an abundant source of inspiration. Historical and mythological figures also make their way to my artwork.
ARE THERE ANY ARTISTS WHO INSPIRE YOU? OR ONES WHO YOU WANT TO FOLLOW IN THEIR PATH? There are many, such as Rene Magritte, Shagal, and Bosch. I’m very much inspired by medieval art.
DO YOU FEEL THERE IS ENOUGH SUPPORT FOR ARTISTS IN OUR REGION? WHAT IS NEEDED TO FURTHER THE PROGRESS OF THE ART COMMUNITY? I think there is support coming from individuals and private galleries in the region. I hope to see more support in giving young and emerging artists a platform to encourage their production like any other sector. There are immense talents in this part of the world, and I think if the young are given the right support they can flourish worldwide. instagram.com/zainaelsaid
07 07 ‘A Peacock’ 2020, 42x60 cm, digital collage and Gold leaf on Canson Arch 310 GSM paper 08 ‘Dove in Love’ 2019, 28x42 cm, digital collage and mixed media on Canson Arch 310 GSM paper
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SPECIAL FEATURE
01 Modern Art Studio is the largest Rolex Boutique in the Middle East
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75 Years of Luxury The largest Rolex Boutique in the Middle East, the Modern Art Studio and Rolex boutique was meticulously designed to embrace Arabian heritage while maintaining the exclusivity synonymous with the Swiss watchmaker, serving its discerning clientele from its accessible location in City Centre Bahrain.
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The largest Rolex Boutique in the Middle East, the Modern Art Studio and Rolex boutique was meticulously designed to embrace Arabian heritage while maintaining the exclusivity synonymous with the Swiss watchmaker, serving its discerning clientele from its accessible location in City Centre Bahrain. The boutique, which features an exclusive VIP suite for private viewings, offers a one-of-a-kind experience for visitors. An extensive collection of over 800 Rolex watches adorns the boutique, beautifully displayed in expertly crafted walnut showcases. Customers can admire the exquisite interior design, created in collaboration with Rolex Interior Design Specialists using the highest quality materials. The wall panels were manufactured in Switzerland, and the Murano chandelier in Italy. The atmosphere illustrates the world of Rolex and
offers privacy and professional advice, with many staff who have been with Modern Art Studio for over 30 years. In addition to being the largest one in the Middle East, it is also one of the largest Rolex boutiques in the world. The story of Modern Art Studio dates back to 1936, when its founder Naji Murad had his original shop in Government Avenue, Manama. By 1940, history was made when the founder of Rolex Geneva, Hans Wilsdorf, officially appointed Modern Art Studio as the first and only Rolex agent in the Gulf. Operating from his store on Government Avenue, Murad promoted and sold watches in Bahrain, as well as to his sub agents in other GCC countries. He later recommended them to Rolex to become official agents, many of whom are still distributors of Rolex today. Another milestone was reached in 1978, when Modern Art Studio’s new 01
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“The story of Modern Art Studio dates back to 1936,
when its founder Naji Murad had his original shop in Government Avenue, Manama.”
02 02 Modern Art Studio continues its history of promoting Rolex and Tudor watches in the GCC 03 The wall panels were manufactured in Switzerland 04 The interior design was created in collaboration with Rolex Interior Design Specialists
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05 The boutique offers a one-of-akind experience for visitors
Rolex showroom was opened by Mr. André Heiniger CEO of Rolex. Genuinely impressed by Modern Art Studio at the time, Heiniger proclaimed it “one of the best Rolex shops in the world.” One of its notable showcases was a display of the exclusive watches cleverly arranged into individual letters to spell the name ROLEX. Today, Modern Art Studio maintains its legacy as a family business as it continues to operate under the wise leadership of Richard and David, the sons of Naji Murad. Hans Wilsdorf went on to found Tudor watches in 1946, and the first Tudor Boutique in Bahrain and the Gulf was opened by Modern Art Studio in December 2014. To this day, Modern Art Studio continues to be leaders in promoting Rolex and Tudor watches in the GCC. masbahrain.com 04
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ARCHITECTURE
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BOUTIQUE Experience
The most luxurious shopping destinations from around the world.
CHLOE DUBAI Located in the Fashion Avenue Extension of the Dubai Mall, this new Chloé flagship stands out for its updated visual identity. Conceived to create the experience of personalized luxury, the 240 sqm store presents a modern and refined design that bridges the feminine codes of the Maison with a decidedly modern spirit. The entrance spans a vast glass screen from one end to the other, offering complete visibility and openness between the boutique and the mall. Surfaces alternate between smooth and tactile, while curving panels and furniture introduce sensuality to a spacious yet intimate layout. White surroundings illuminated by soft lighting are punctuated with accents of cream, beige and rose – an evolution of the emblematic Chloé palette. Muted brass metal fixtures appear like glowing accents in harmony with the hardware detailing on bags and the refined jewellery designs. At once simplified and sophisticated, the boutique design delivers a pure statement from which the spectrum of Chloé collections – readyto-wear, accessories, shoes, and perfumes – all have pride of place. chloe.com
September 2020
ARCHITECTURE
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AL HASHIMI PEARLS BAHRAIN Established in 1997 by founding Chairmen Vijay and Virati Shah, Al Hashimi Pearls have opened their third branch in the Kingdom. With exquisite architecture courtesy of Al Nooh Wood Design, the beautiful new store displays exclusive fine jewelry pieces made with natural pearls and diamond jewelry from New York over its space of 1200 sq ft. All jewellery on display at Al Hashimi is authenticated by the Bahrain Institute for Pearls & Gemstones (DANAT) and its total value ranges up to BD500,000. Al Hashimi Pearls offers handcrafted natural pearl jewellery styled with precious stones and diamonds, produced exclusively with 21k and 18k yellow and white gold. Collections include the Bridal Collection, the Private Pearls Collection, and the Midnight Collection. Besides the three renowned stores in Bahrain, the brand is also a recognized name in the entire Middle East, US, and Europe. alhashimipearls.com
ARCHITECTURE
KENZO NYC Located in Soho at the corner of Grand and Mercer streets, the new and dynamic concept of Felipe Oliveira Baptista is housed inside a historic castiron façade building emblematic of the downtown neighborhood. Inside a series of reimagined white metal scaffoldings are reflected throughout the space’s floor to ceiling mirrors serving as a both a launchpad for the House’s newest collections and collaborations as well as a destination for the brand’s global community. Greeting visitors as they arrive is a dedicated space for revolving artistic installations debuting with a vintage television presentation and complimented by original 1970’s leather furniture and geometric plexiglass displays. Arrays of plants and vegetation punctuate the metal structures evoking the House’s DNA and commitment to the natural world as well as Oliveira Baptista’s focus on organic materials. This first US Flagship is envisioned as a continuously evolving ecosystem where artistic installations and community gatherings are delivered alongside the brand’s newest offerings creating a unique experience and that is distinctly KENZO. kenzo.com
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“Greeting visitors as they arrive is a dedicated
space for revolving artistic installations debuting with a vintage television presentation and complimented by original 1970’s leather furniture and geometric plexiglass displays.�
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The Upcycling Sculptor Master of upcycling technology and fashion waste, Gabriel defines his art as a mission to create dialogue through iconic pop culture, expressed through environmental sound ways of repurposing misused, e-waste materials.
Born in Bay City, Michigan, Gabriel was raised in the countryside of Midland, Michigan. Through his career, he has moved to many cities, from Detroit to the East Coast, Baltimore, New York, and now residing in the Suburbs of Indianapolis, Indiana. At a young age, Gabriel was an artistic individual who advanced in art. He discovered his medium through a 9th grade art challenge by his teacher. The art teacher at the time wrote 30 ideas, one of the ideas was “Junk Art”. It stood out to Gabriel, who had no idea what Junk Art means. As he researched how he can define Junk Art, Gabriel went into his dad’s garage, and began to tinker. In his journey of research and scavenging the materials his dad had in the garage, the idea of Junk Art began to spark to Gabriel, and was defined in his mind as something 3-dimensional,
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01 Upcycled K2SO 02 L2V2 Seven 03 T’Challa LV Challenge Mask
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04 Darth Vadior 05 Gucci Fett 06 LV Armorer 07 Imperial Walker LV 08 Iron Man LV
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mechanical, and material that can be re-purposed in place of disposing it into a landfill. At that moment, Junk Art for Gabriel became the art of repurposing mechanical waste and e-waste that will transform into a statement piece. His first piece, an abstract sculpture titled ‘Mary on a Donkey’, was created for the local DOW Chemical Holiday Art Show in high school and won the top honors in the 3D art category. His love of sci-fi and all things “Star Wars” has significantly influenced his creature and figurative sculptures. He is constantly looking for new ways to use old materials, showcasing them in a new light. Generally beginning projects without any defined plan, his inspiration is drawn from finding out how well pieces work together or how they move and then let those materials drive the color scheme or overall endpoint of where an idea will become. For commissioned pieces, the theme is very much inspired by the client, their history, and the story to be told through his art. Gabriel’s passion for working with metal and mechanical objects has been essential in the evolution of his art, providing him an avenue to express himself in a way that brings new life to materials such as typewriters, adding machines, and old computers. gabrieldishaw.com 07
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Light and Sea
Settantotto, the new flagship of Cranchi Yachts, impresses with fluid lines and rounded corners that convey a natural sense of balance. Designed by Christian Grande with the help of the shipyard’s research center, it combines eye-catching color and structure for a sleek and sinuous look.
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Visually lighter, the Settantotto expands the large areas and generous volumes of the interiors, full of natural light as suggested by the symmetrical subtractions in the hull, on the main and lower deck. “For us, every project tests the skills we have gained, sometimes in very different sectors,” explains Christian Grande. “The contamination of these sectors continuously gives us new hints and guides us to act on matters we no longer consider just of style, but more of method. The breadth of the space in the Cranchi Settantotto pushed us towards a design with a markedly architectural matrix, which uses freestanding furniture elements and finishes that are still unconventional in the yachting world, such as back-painted glass and fabric covers for the walls. Large openings connect exteriors and interiors, integrating natural light and the sea element into the design.” Ample volumes, elegance, and function are the distinguishing traits of the square deck, with
an optimal layout for the galley, living room and relaxation areas. An unusual feature on a yacht this size is an additional toilet on the main deck. There are areas dedicated to socializing and relaxation, in the bow and stern, on this yacht’s large open-air flydeck and main deck. Additional space is offered by the easily accessible swim platform. Equipped with a lift that allows it to be raised and moved forward, the cockpit can become a huge terrace over the sea with the extraordinary surface provided by the teak-covered garage. Opening the garage door reveals a large space, in which the area set up for the tender and jet ski can be separated from the area closer to the swim platform, which is suitable for chaises longues. “The external decks are not designed to be a simple appendix of the interiors,” adds Christian Grande. “They acquire independence and identity by using customized furniture and accessories, as well as control over details, which we wanted
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02 Smooth and muscular forms are equipped to take on the sea in any condition 03 Space, elegance, and functionality are recurring features on board
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“Sophisticated elegance and great
comfort characterize the VIP cabin in the bow.” to push until the advanced phases of execution, making any possible perception coherent.” The layout below deck can include up to four en suite cabins (three large double cabins and one cabin with two single beds). All beds are placed along the longitudinal bow/stern axis, to ensure greatest comfort when resting. Every area is furnished in a refined, elegant style. The full-beam master cabin in the center of the yacht offers luxury-suite style emotions, with a walk-in wardrobe and a study or beauty corner. Sophisticated elegance and great comfort characterize the VIP cabin in the bow. The cabin reserved for the crew is also very pleasant, with two bunks and toilet with separate shower. The crew cabin, with access separate from the other cabins, also includes a washing machine and tumble dryer. christiangrande.com
04 All the systems on board are stateof-the-art 05 The main deck and fly comprise large open spaces with dedicated areas for socialising and relaxing, from bow to stern
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Small Slice of HEAVEN
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The picturesque Vaud capital was recently named the ‘best small city in the world’ in Monocle magazine’s Small Cities Index, which ranked the best 25 small towns with a population under 200,000. Lausanne topped the chart for its public transport network, global outlook, diverse population, natural setting and other factors.
Lausanne is in the French region of Switzerland which is vibrant and combines urban life with easy access to the scenic routes and spots all around the region. Lausanne’s dynamism, cultural and sporting heritage, culinary wealth and quality hotel infrastructure attracts visitors from around the world and lends itself to the perfect city break escape. Here are 8 things that makes Lausanne a great small town. Filled with picture-perfect streets and colorful buildings is the old town of Lausanne. Exploring the streets of Lausanne can be quite a workout. Start at the top at the medieval site located in the pedestrian Old Town and make your way through the hill that spreads down to the main train station. There are many bridges, lifts and escalators to help work your way up and down the hills. From local goods to international splurges,
Lausanne has a lot to offer. Dating back to the 9th century, Place de la Palud is the main square of Lausanne’s Old Town and the centerpiece is the Fountain of Justice, Lausanne’s oldest fountain. The traditional farmer’s market is held in the old town every Wednesday and Saturday mornings. The market stalls here sell everything from souvenirs, unique finds to boutique items and delicacies. There is also a great mix of high-end brands and vintage stores. Independent boutiques line Rue Martery which is great for unique finds and a different kind of shopping experience. Art Brut refers to art forms outside the boundaries of normal art, and it can get very unusual. In Lausanne, some of the world’s quirkiest collections can be seen in Collection de L’Art Brut. This includes works of Jean Dubuffet himself, mixed in with art collections of all kinds. The
collection boasts more than 70,000 pieces by 1,000 artists, making this museum in Lausanne the world’s finest collection of Art Brut. One can spend hours browsing all four floors of the museum’s permanent collection which include paintings done by psychiatric patients and inmates, artworks, naïve paintings, sculpture, masks, and works in a wide variety of media. The temporary exhibitions change, following various themes that interpret the art and explore the creative process. The oldest restaurant in Lausanne is also one of its most popular. The Pinte Besson opened in 1780 and has since served traditional Swiss dishes. The restaurant is most known for serving up the best fondue in Lausanne – a rich mix of Gruyere and Vacherin served with potatoes and bread for dipping. Pinte Besson also serves great local wines and seasonal dishes at great value for money.
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The Tour de Sauvabelin is a unique viewing tower in the highest point of the Sauvabelin Forest. The Tour de Sauvabelin is constructed entirely out of timber from the forests outside the city, composed of Douglas fir, spruce, and larch wood. It was raised in 2003 and characterized by its double helix staircase. 151 steps take you up to the observation tower where you can take in dreamy views of Lake Geneva, the Alps, the Vaud Alps, French Alps, and Lausanne’s cityscape. Take a boat to Vevey or Montreux for a great day trip or hire a private boat to take you around Lake Geneva. Lake Geneva Cruise Lines offers group and private tours of Lake Geneva. The General Navigation Company (GCN) operates boats that transport travelers from Lausanne to Château de Chillon, Montreux, Vevey, Nyon, and Morges. They also offer gourmet cruises. It is a great way to enjoy the stunning lake and you also get to see the terraced Lavaux vineyards, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visiting the Olympic Museum does not sound like a ground-breaking activity, but this place has more than just your average artifacts and exhibits. The rich collection has pieces that span the ancient period through to the present day, telling the story of how the modern Olympic Games were born and continue to progress. Not only will you learn about the change in sport technology and the inspiration behind the Olympic movement, you can challenge your friends to races on the 100m track and re-live some of the most inspiring opening ceremonies in history. The Flon district was once a natural valley run through by the river Flon and now one of the hot spots of Lausanne nightlife. The old warehouse district is now full of hip clubs, trendy bars, cool shops, and modern restaurants. Lausanne-tourisme.ch
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01 Gorgeous panoramic view of Lausanne 02 The collections at the Olympic Museum tell the story of the modern Olympic Games 03 Lavaux, one of Switzerland’s most beautiful regions
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04 Some of the world’s quirkiest art collections can be seen in Collection de L’Art Brut 05, 06 The Cathedral of Notre Dame of Lausanne attracts more than 400,000 visitors every year
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ALL ABOARD The Vietage, which departed for its inaugural journey in July of this year, now brings luxury railway journeys through the Vietnamese countryside connecting Da Nang and Quy Nhon cities.
Developed by Anantara to introduce memorable journeys between Anantara Hoi An and Anantara Quy Nhon Villas, The Vietage offers a unique Vietnamese luxury travel experience for its guests. The custom-designed opulent carriage, with just 12 reservation-only seats, immerses its guests into the culture, nature and history of the country through the stories of its daily return journey, heralding a new age of glamorous train travel. The Vietage carriage boasts sleek-lined modern interiors, big picture windows and large comfy seats, while a sit-up bar offers a change of scenery and the chance to enjoy local craft beers, wines and snacks over conversation with friends, before the main culinary experience. During the six-hour journey, guests encounter a plethora of taste sensations as the countryside rolls by. An exclusively curated menu evokes
the essence of Vietnam with a French twist, through an explosion of creative flavors and local ingredients. Dishes such as Quy Nhon seafood salad, barley risotto and braised Wagyu neck will excite plant, carnivore and seafood lovers alike. Sweet endings come in the form of local Da Lat strawberries, passion fruit tart and a typical French-style crème brulÊe made with superior Dong Nai chocolate from Vietnam. A dedicated area with spa treatment chairs offers head and shoulder treatments on the go as the train passes through local villages, rural countryside and stops at a few stations on the way. A one-way ticket aboard The Vietage costs US$185 per person, including a three-course, pre-ordered meal, free-flow wines, beers and soft drinks, bar snacks and a 30-minute head and shoulder treatment.
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01 01 The Vietage offers luxury railway journeys through the Vietnamese countryside 02 The carriage boasts modern interiors, big picture windows, and comfy seats
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03 Passenger can relax and unwind during their journeys 04 The dedicated area with spa treatment chairs offers head and shoulder treatments on the go 05 A selection of fine fare is available on-board
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An à la carte menu also offers premium wines, champagnes and treats such as local caviar and the finest selection of both local and international cheeses, all available for pre-purchase. The Vietage departs from Da Nang every morning at 09:31, arriving at Dieu Tri station in Quy Nhon at 15:43. The return journey departs from Dieu Tri at 17:29 and arrives in Da Nang at 23:01. The Vietage runs for eleven months each year, taking a break during the annual Vietnamese Tet holiday period. Combination accommodation packages are available with Anantara Hoi An Resort and Anantara Quy Nhon Villas for guests to experience each destination and can be booked directly on the website at https://www.anantara.com/en/vietnam. The Vietage also contributes to the ‘Dollars for Deeds’ programme, in which US $1 per ticket is donated and guests on board are at liberty to make their own contribution. Donations are given to the Kianh Foundation, a not-for-profit charity providing a full-time, customized, special needs curriculum for children with disabilities in the Quang Nam Province of Central Vietnam. anantara.com 05
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01 01 A desert palace exprience awaits 02 The pool area 03 A range of dining options are available
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QASR AL SARAB ABU DHABI Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort by Anantara has introduced extensive luxury updates to its resort facilities, alongside new health and safety features that ensure unforgettable stays with absolute peace of mind. With enhanced leisure, wellness and family offerings, the legendary palace is more opulent and indulgent than ever. Adhering to the highest operational standards for “new normal” travel, Qasr Al Sarab has adopted a 360-degree approach to hygiene and safety, including sanitizing stations, physical distancing and health checks for team members. An Anantara Guest Guardian has been appointed to oversee the program, which has earned the resort the Go Safe Certification from the Abu Dhabi Department of Culture and Tourism. The resort has also enriched its children’s offerings with irresistibly fun-filled amenities and activities for kids. These include upgrades to the kids’ club, a new soft-play zone in the pool, nutritious and delicious menu options, and complimentary activities
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and experiences designed to keep younger travelers engaged throughout their stay. For indulgent days of relaxation and fun in the sun, the pool area has been refurbished to provide multiple zones for guests of all ages. Upgrades include children’s splash pad area, luxurious in-water loungers and an in-water swing, new cabanas providing enhanced guest privacy, a 50-metre stretch for laps, striking poolside decor and more. A highlight is the sleek new swimup bar which offers the perfect pool time menu including a collection of desert-inspired mojitos and a new signature “Farm to Fork” pizza with ingredients from the resort’s own greenhouse. The new Resort Lifestyle Guru will be available for guests and provide them with inside tips and recommendations. In addition to the existing suite of leisure amenities, fitness facilities have received cuttingedge upgrades. The gym now features new Technogym equipment, including the Zwift virtual
cycling system. Outdoors, a desert volleyball court and super-sized Jenga and chess create even more opportunities for active fun. The tennis and basketball courts are open 24 hours and free to use for all guests. Gym memberships will also be available for local residents to access the fitness center, pool, steam room and sauna and additional resort-wide discounts. A desert palace stay is not complete without indulgent spa experiences, now enhanced with the latest in technology and treatments. The wellness center relaunches with new relaxation spaces for men and women, indoor and outdoor meditation zones and Psammo therapy sand-heat. New green initiatives at the resort include complete phasing out of plastic water bottles and the introduction of solar panels to support power and hot water, emphasising its focus towards a sustainable resort. anantara.com
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Redefining Hospitality 04
Discover the true meaning of hospitality and experience the ultimate in luxury at these global destinations. 05
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06 Octola offers total privacy in the secluded wilderness area 07 Octola offers tailored luxury services 08 Unique decor adds to the experience 09 One of the guest rooms
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OCTOLA FINLAND Located within the Arctic Circle in Finnish Lapland, approximately 20 minutes from Rovaniemi International Airport, Octola is a private eco-luxury 10-bedroom wilderness chalet. Situated in the heart of a private 300-hectare wilderness reserve, Octola offers ultimate privacy and tailored luxury services. It is a fully catered and hosted destination with exclusive private activities including guided snowshoe excursions in search of the Northern Lights, cross-country skiing, tobogganing, husky sledding, snowmobiling, winter ice driving and private visits to Santa Claus. The ultra-luxurious 10 suite log cabin was created by Janne Honkanen, the CEO of Arctic Region Travel Operator, Luxury Action. He is a pioneer of experiential travel within the Arctic Circle and having searched for the perfect accommodation to offer his most discerning clients wishing to experience the Arctic Circle, he finally decided to 09
build it himself. Whether you book the entire cabin of 10 suites, or take a wing of 6 or 4 suites, the rates are all inclusive including a private gym and fitness center, unique hand carved wood-burning sauna and the freshest food cooked to your liking, private butler and a wilderness guide. The food is all sourced locally and consisting mainly of wild plants, berries, mushrooms and fish, all local, pure and ecologically gathered from nature to the table by a Michelin star Chef complemented by wines chosen by one of the top sommeliers in Finland. Octola creates tailor-made itineraries to suit individual preferences. From adventurous activities such as white-water rafting, kayaking, canoeing, paddle boarding, helicopter rides, Nordic walking and race driving with a stuntman to exploring the untamed wilderness, wildlife spotting, hiking, luxury survival camps, sweet water fishing, through organic farms and reindeer farm visits, the experiences are
truly authentic and guaranteed to create memories that will last a lifetime. Lapland is also one of the best regions in the world to see the Northern Lights and this natural spectacular light show can be witnessed from the middle of August onwards. OCTOLA was built for frequent, global travelers accustomed to luxurious five star hotels. Being accommodated in a wooden chalet is the essence of Lapland, providing the most authentic stay in the Arctic. It offers total privacy in the secluded wilderness area and all the exciting outdoor Arctic activities are on your doorstep. The wilderness guides, chef and butler ensure that all your requirements and wishes are attended to. Octola Lodge has won several awards, including the World Luxury Hotel Awards, Managing Director’s Choice Award in 2019. octola.com
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ONE&ONLY GORILLA’S NEST RWANDA Offering an exclusive front-row seat to observe endangered mountain gorillas in the wild, One&Only Gorilla’s Nest is cushioned in the foothills of the breathtaking Virunga volcano range. Guests can explore where few have been before in one of the world’s most exceptional natural locations. One&Only Gorilla’s Nest is the ultimate ultra-luxury resort in Kinigi, northwest of Rwanda and just five minutes from Volcanoes National Park. The park is home to the highest number of mountain gorillas, five dormant volcanoes and is categorized as a rainforest because its montane ecosystem. Guests of One&Only Gorilla’s Nest receive a traditional Rwandan welcome upon arrival, as vibrant drummers can be heard as guests drive through the large wooden gates along the local volcanic stone pathway, revealing the dramatic Eucalyptus forest ahead. A signature rose welcome drink from the resort’s rose garden, or locally produced coffee is served from the Main Lodge where fireplaces burn and local African artwork can be discovered, and is the place where everyone gathers after a long day of trekking. Beautifully designed private sanctuaries seamlessly blend with the location and offer an intimate collection of 21 jungle-chic havens.
Featuring 10 Forest King Lodges, four TwoBedroom Forest Lodges, five Virunga Suites, an Ingagi and a Silverback Suite, each space is designed to frame nature, and is surrounded by Eucalyptus trees and strategically positioned on stilts. Private decks and in-room fireplaces provide guests the opportunity to live amongst the endless landscape, inviting the outside in, and allowing for a truly unforgettable African experience. Suites offer spacious living and dining areas, as well as a true natural experience with outdoor bathtubs high amongst the trees, offering ultimate privacy. Each lodge design is modern with an African contemporary feel, showcasing the hues of the surrounding vistas, and colors of the earth and natural, local volcanic rock, with touches of black and white Rwandan imigongo patterns. Guests enjoy meals in the main restaurant, Nest, offering dining both indoor and out, as well as a private dining area for up to 22 guests. Executive Chef Bryan English and his team focus on local and organic ingredients, making use of the abundant produce from local farmers as well as his own Chef’s Garden. Similar to One&Only Nyungwe House, the culinary team work on a new menu daily with a focus on Rwandan and African influences, based
on guests’ preferences and dietary needs. Private outdoor dining experiences, barbeques and picnics are also an option for guests, alternatively lighter meals are available at the Pool Bar throughout the day. Nest Bar serves classic cocktails with a modern twist incorporating rose water and Eucalyptus from the surrounding forest. One&Only Spa in partnership with South African brand, Terres d’Afrique, offers guests holistic treatments using plant-based African ingredients and provides two treatment suites in a private building. Guests can select treatments tailored to a specific area of the body and three signature treatments, only found at One&Only Gorilla’s Nest, pay homage to the location, taking inspiration from the local community and surroundings, including the Forest Coffee and Coconut Treatment, The Gorilla’s Nest Essence of Rose, and Post Trek & Travel. Guests also have access to Club One facilities offering a relaxation room, an open-air heated pool and plunge pool, as well as the Fitness Centre with steam room and sauna, and the Pool Bar offering healthy options with fruit juices evolving into evening cocktails. oneandonlygorillasnest.com
10, 11 One&Only Gorilla’s Nest is cushioned in the foothills of the breathtaking Virunga volcano range 12, 13 Beautifully designed interior 11
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PAIRI DAIZA BELGIUM Voted Best Zoo of Europe for three years in a row, Pairi Daiza is located in Belgium, right in the center of Europe. Pairi Daiza Resort is the part of the zoo where guests can spend the night on 18 hectares of ‘Canadian’ and ‘polar’ territory. Visitors can choose between luxury lodges, suites, and rooms, overlooking the territories of bears, wolves, Steller sea lions, penguins, Siberian tigers, and fallow deer. However, the most unique aspect are the underwater suites with the polar bears and walruses. You can actually spend the night there in an underwater room, and admire the amazing diving skills of these animals all day and all night long. These underwater and other rooms are a well appreciated enrichment to the life of these animals, who use them as a ‘tv screen’. The bears and walruses seem very interested and curious to see what’s going on behind the windows. So while the resort guests don’t have their privacy, it’s something the animals do have, because they all have access
to enormous territories (for the polar bears we’re talking about territories that are 12 times bigger than the size legally requested), where they can easily hide if they don’t want to be seen. The presence of polar bears in Pairi Daiza Resort was part of a program for the protection and conservation of these wonderful animals who are the number one victims of climate change. To achieve this goal, a partnership was made with the internationally recognized organization ‘Polar Bears International’, who have visited and approved the polar bear territories in Pairi Daiza. There are a number of reason why the polar bear territories at Pairi Daiza can be regarded as one of the best in the world including being 12 times the size legally requested; having real, salted and chilled sea water in a huge and deep basin; having a real ice cave, covered in snow and ice, were the temperature is permanently kept below zero; different fresh water rivers and waterfalls
flowing through their territories; different types of surface such as sand, rock, pebbles, and grass; among others. To help stop global warming, Pairi Daiza also recently constructed the largest privately owned solar panel carport in the world, with 62.750 solar panels making Pairi Daiza the very first (and only) zero emissions park in the world. Their polar bear territories also have a huge underground exhibition explaining to the public all dangers of global warming and offering visitors to sign a ‘contract’ with resolutions to reduce their carbon footprint at home. Pairi Daiza financially supports conservation projects of Polar Bears International in the arctic. That’s why, booking a room with underwater view on their polar bears is also protecting their cousins in the wild and their species as a whole. www.pairidaiza.eu
14 The rooms feature comfortable seating areas 15 Visitors can choose between luxury lodges, suites, and rooms, overlooking the territories of different animals 16 One of the underwater rooms 17 Pairi Daiza connects people and animals in a unique way
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18 A glass conservatory, enveloped by layers of greenery 19 Eclectic design and comfort exist harmoniously 20 One of the exquisite bedrooms 21 The Maker Hotel Dining Spaces welcome breakfast goers, cocktail-seekers, and dinner guests
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THE MAKER NY The Maker Hotel, a new hotel from the co-founders of global beauty brand Fresh, Lev Glazman and Alina Roytberg, and hospitality expert Damien Janowicz, lies in the heart of historic downtown Hudson, New York. The team first opened Bartlett House in 2016 – an all-day bakery, cafe and restaurant serving local, seasonal fare in nearby Ghent, NY. Inspired by the wide range of creatives native to the Hudson Valley, the seasoned team now opens the maker hotel to bring a bespoke experience to both the close-knit upstate New York community and travelers alike. The property features work from local Hudson valley craftsmen, global artisans, one of kind vintage pieces and an extensive art collection that truly celebrates the world of makers. Collaborating with a wide range of creatives native to the Hudson Valley and beyond, The Maker brings a bespoke experience to hospitality and bohemian sensibility to design. The spaces are a sophisticated curation of different periods that create a home where eclectic design and comfort can exist harmoniously. The property is an intimate sanctuary, comprised of 11 spacious rooms spread across three historic buildings. Every room is completely unique and has a story to tell. The four Maker Studios are inspired by the world of distinct makers. Located in the historic Georgian Mansion building, these expansive rooms have living areas and fireplaces with spectacular details.
The Maker Hotel Dining Spaces welcome breakfast goers, cocktail-seekers, and dinner guests. The culinary program, led by Executive Chef Michael Poiarkoff, bonds traditions of mindful cooking with elegant preparation, composing seasonally & sourcing responsibly. A tribute to the best coffeehouses of Europe, The Cafe is here to spend the day with you; from astounding coffee, made-that-morning breads and pastries from Bartlett House beside selections from The Maker’s very own patisserie, classic cocktails, and a delicious menu of sandwiches, salads, and soups to stay in or take away. A glass conservatory, enveloped by layers of greenery, The Restaurant serves seasonal plates with an emphasis on locality & community. Characterized by playful curiosity & a passion for sustenance, the kitchen cultivates relationships with a diverse array of dedicated Hudson Valley farms & purveyors that guide an evolving menu of Contemporary American fare. Tucked away inside a restored 19th century carriage house with leather-clad walls & grand ceilings, The Lounge transports its guests to candlelit corners by the hand carved fireplace, a seat at the captivating bar, or relishing the evening out on the patio. The menu offers an enticing selection of craft cocktails, wines, and local beers alongside a tempting menu of savory plates. themaker.com
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01 Swimming, one of the physical activities offered at Chenot
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SERENE TREATMENTS Take your body and mind on a journey of relaxation with these worldwide destinations of tranquility.
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CHENOT PALACE WEGGIS SWITZERLAND Chenot Palace Weggis is the new leading health wellness destination of the Chenot brand worldwide. This flagship property is designed and equipped purposely to offer the unique Chenot programs and treatments that detox, energize and reset body and mind. It also hosts the Chenot Corporate Headquarters, the Research & Development team and the Chenot Training Centre and Academy. Chenot Palace Weggis is perfectly located in the heart of Switzerland, on the relaxing shores of Lake Lucerne with breathtaking views over the Alps and private access to the beach. The romantic Chenot Palace and the new contemporary building hosting the spa combine contemporary lifestyle, luxury, and prestige for the well-travelled and sophisticated visitors.
Guests will experience a holistic and personalized medical approach to wellness within a luxurious environment, bespoke tailored programs for detoxing, energizing and resetting body and mind, a medical spa facility of 5000 square metres and 97 luxurious guest rooms fully dedicated to support the programs with outstanding professional excellence at all levels from hospitality to medical care, state-ofthe-art diagnostics and advanced medical screening tests, the world-renowned Chenot MethodÂŽ of powerful and effective targeted treatments enabling the body and mind to reach their optimum activity level, and an offer of true wellness value: a sense of profound well-being, feeling genuinely healthy, physically clean and mentally alert. chenotpalaceweggis.com
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“A series of new services have been
created to live the hotel in total safety, ensuring privacy, exclusivity, and personalization.” FALORIA MOUNTAIN SPA RESORT ITALY Faloria Mountain Spa Resort, located in Italy’s most glamorous mountain destination, has developed a new hospitality proposal rethinking its offer in all aspects, from the stay to the gastronomic experience, from moments dedicated to well-being to outdoor activities. A series of new services have been created to live the hotel in total safety, ensuring privacy, exclusivity, and personalization. The real gem of the Faloria is the Spa Area: above 1000 sqm where enjoying a sensory experience, for a regenerating holiday. To meet the contemporary safety needs, the hotel offers the guests the opportunity to privatize, for their entire stay, the alcoves; intimate and reserved corners on the poolside, from where it’s possible to admire the spectacular view of Mount Faloria.
The Spa is also open to external guests that want to enjoy a day of relaxation and well-being. The offer Spa Getaway consists of the use of a room in day use, the privatization of a cabin with a treatment of your choice, the use of the semi-Olympic swimming pool, a reserved alcove and wellness snack served in the room at the end of the experience. It’s possible to request Spa treatments directly in the room by choosing the program In-Room Spa. For those looking for an alternative way to end the day, the Faloria offers Aperipool: pool access from 5pm, linen, dedicated alcove and a cocktail of your choice from the drink list. faloriasparesort.com 06 05 Faloria offers a range of treatments 06, 08 A relaxing atmosphere guaranteed to soothe guests 07 Semi-Olympic swimming pool
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Gastronomic Delights With over 15 years of experience in the hospitality industry, Argentinian Chef Gaston Silva Herrera is a master in the kitchen. As the Executive Chef at Meliã Desert Palm Dubai, he leads his team in the making of the most delectable creations, drawing inspiration from his hometown of Argentina, which is renowned for its love of the art of the grill.
TELL US ABOUT THE MENU AT MELIÃ DESERT PALM DUBAI. WHAT SHOULD PATRONS EXPECT? At Melia Desert Palm, we have two restaurants: Rare, which is a fine dining steakhouse, and Epicure, which serves all day dining. For Rare, we launched a new menu in March that’s all about the Oak Wood grill, including lobster, fish, chicken and beef. The menu has a big Argentinian influence with some European touches. For Epicure, we have an international comfort food menu. My highest recommendation from it would be our homemade pastas, made from pumpkin gnocchi, lamb raviolis, and linguini caprese.
WHICH CUISINE IS CLOSEST TO YOUR HEART? As an Argentinian, I have a strong passion for fire and grill. I have been grilling since the age of 8. I have also been in love with French cuisine since I first ventured into the culinary industry. French chefs were the pioneers of bringing new cooking styles and methods to this field.
HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE YOUR CULINARY APPROACH?
ARE THERE ANY CHEFS THAT LEFT A LASTING IMPACT ON YOU?
Making the best out of the dish while using the least amount of ingredients possible. For me, it’s all about keeping a balance between the dish and its ingredients. Cooking is like music, where every ingredient is a note making a beautiful melody.
Chef Maximo Cabrera from Argentina is a cook, researcher, a musician, and a mentor. He always used to bring an amazing energy to the kitchen. What inspired me most is the respect he showed towards his passion and profession.
WHERE DO YOU SOURCE YOUR INGREDIENTS FROM?
WHAT’S THE MOST CHALLENGING ASPECT OF BEING A CHEF?
I prefer using locally produced ingredients, especially those who support the community.
To work with people who don’t always share the same vision as you do. It could be due to different factors such as personal traits, priorities, culture, religion and so on.
WHAT WAS YOUR PROUDEST MOMENT IN THE KITCHEN? My proudest moment in the kitchen was the time when I applied for an Executive Chef role in a hotel based in Chile. Following the interview, I was asked to prepare something for the owner and the Corporate Chef of the brand. After I finished cooking and served the food, they offered me the position of Corporate Chef for all three of their properties.
WHAT’S NEXT FOR MELIÃ DESERT PALM DUBAI? To position Melia Desert Palm Dubai as a culinary destination for guests who want to escape Dubai and indulge in an authentic dining experience, away from city’s hustle bustle. melia.com
Candied Pumpkin with Syrup INGREDIENTS
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1 kg Pumpkin, peeled and sliced thinly 1 kg Sugar 200 ml Water 1/2 Lemon
To prepare pumpkin • 500g Slaked lime • 10 ltr Water Method Mix water and slaked lime. Wait it 7 or 8 hours. Lime will sink and you will use the water on its surface. Pour this water on pumpkin slices and wait it about 7 hours. Then wash them well. Wait them in clean water about 1 hour. Put them in a large pot, put sugar and 200ml water on them. Cook for about 1 hour until it has right consistency and pumpkin slices get golden. Add a few lemon drops and cook a few minutes more. Let it cold. Don’t put it in the refrigerator. Serve it as is. It doesn’t need any toppings, you just grab one slice and eat it.
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Quinoa, Poached Egg and Potato Foam INGREDIENTS • • • • • • • •
100g Black Quinoa 2 pieces Bay leaves Wáter 1/2 Cup Brown beef broth 1/4 Red onion 1/2 Ts Garlic 1 Ts Butter Sea salt
Foam • • • • • • • • • •
1 Potato 1 Ts Butter 1/2 Cup of Milk Water Salt 500ml Soda sifón 1 Soda charge 1 Poached egg 50g Asparagus 50g Bunapi mushrooms
Method Boil the quinoa in the water with the Bay leaves and salt for around 15 mins (taste it, has to be soft). Peel the potato and chop in 1x1 cm squares, boil in water with salt for 15 mins. Once ready take out the water and add the milk and butter. Put in the blender and blend until looks like a soft runny sticky cream. Remove from the blender and put in the Sifon, close and putt he Soda charge. Reserve. Bring a large pot of water to a boil, then reduce to low (or turn off the heat). Crack the egg in a fine mesh sieve (over a small bowl) and remove the liquidy whites. Transfer the egg to a small ramekin or bowl. Add one tablespoon of light-colored vinegar to the pot and stir to create a vortex. Pour the ramekin with the egg into the middle of the vortex and set a timer for 3 minutes. Once the egg is done, use a slotted spoon to remove the poached egg. Dab with a paper towel to remove excess water. Now that we have it all ready, put butter in a pan and sautee the onion and garlic, when this is a bit Brown add the quinoa, keep i ton the fire until it becomes a Little bit crispy and then add the beef broth and reduce for 1 minutes with strong fire. Taste and add salt. On another pan, sautee the mushrooms and asparagus with butter and salt only for not more than 2 minutes with high fire. Remove from fire. On the plate, put the Quinoa on the center, on top putt he poached egg and cover with the asparagus and mushrooms. At the end add the foam on the side of the Quinoa and finish with some olive oil and sea salt flakes.
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Oak Wood Grilled Short Ribs INGREDIENTS
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300g Short ribs 30g Sea salt flakes 3g Red pepper 3g White pepper 3g Black pepper 1 Kg Oak wood 1 Kg Charcoal Chimichurri sauce 1/2 Cup Red wine vinegar 1 Cup Finely chopped parsley 1 Ts Chopped garlic 1/2 Ts Red chili 1/2 Ts Oregano 1 Cup White onion 5g Salt 3g Pepper 1 Cup Vegetable oil
Method For starting the fire in a traditional way, first place the charcoal in a little mountain, put some paper on top and also some oak wood shaves. Next, place the oak wood all around, making like a tent and covering the charcoal. Turn on the paper. After 25 minutes, the charcoal and the wood will be ready for putting under the grill (please do not use flame). Heat the grill for 5 minutes. For the short ribs, add salt and pepper all around and place on the grill on the bone side first. Keep it there until the skin starts separating from the bone, then you must turn the short ribs around and start cooking on the meat side. Always maintain a medium slow fire. For the Chimichurri sauce, put all the ingredients in a bowl and keep in the chiller for 2 hours before using.
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Experience a culinary journey with award-winning and critically acclaimed restaurants from around the world.
HUTONG DUBAI Globally acclaimed restaurant and bar Hutong has launched its new Wednesday nights dining event, ‘Red Lantern Evening’. With a delicious eightdish menu showcasing Hutong’s occasionally fiery Northern Chinese cuisine matched with free-flow drinks, Red Lantern Evening at Hutong is the go-to for after-dark escapism, perfect when so many summer travel plans are on pause. According to Chinese tradition, red lanterns are hung for special occasions, welcoming guests from near and far. And at Hutong, in the prestigious DIFC, Wednesday is a cause for a special celebration with the new Red Lantern Evening, offering a menu of eight stand-out dishes priced at AED 245 per person. The dinner starts with a selection of three dishes, including the delicate but indulgent Wild Mushroom & Truffle Bao, lauded by The New York Times as amongst the best dim sum in Manhattan. Maincourses include the signature Ma La Chilli Prawns;
tender but crunchy prawns in ‘lip-numbing’ Sichuan peppercorns and spices. Then comes the star of the evening, Hutong’s famous Red Lantern; crispy soft-shell crab served in a basket of fiery Sichuan red peppers – wonderfully juicy and spicy. The feast is rounded-off with the delightfully light Bao and Soy dessert. Guests arriving for the Red Lantern Evening at Hutong’s discreet location at Gate Building 6 in DIFC, with its own private drop-off and valet, pass the cascading water-feature to arrive in the plush vaulted-ceiling restaurant which brings to life the Silk Road where Chinese and Arabic cultures meet and blend. Marvel at the hand-crafted sandstone wall, inspired by the Emin Minaret in Urumqi in Xinjiang province, 30-foot-high intricately carved wood screens and centre stage the famous Hutong Wishing Tree where guests can place hutong-dubai.com
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01 Peking duck pancakes 02, 03 Hutong’s traditional Chinese interior 04, 05 Some of the delectable creations of Hutong
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06, 10 Kyo’s laid-back ambiance is perfect for social gatherings 07, 08 Hot stone angus cuts and seafood 09 Expertly crafted drinks
KYO DUBAI Serving a Japanese flair, KYO Restaurant brings the vivid flavors of Japanese cuisine in an ambience that makes for perfect laid-back gettogethers and social gatherings. Settled within western frond of The Pointe, KYO is led by Head Chef Arturo Mendez features flavorsome fusion Japanese delicacies, paired with unparalleled views of Dubai’s famous the Atlantis Hotel and The Palm Jumeirah. KYO delivers sensory explosions of taste and sight through their dishes with the freshest catchof-the-day ingredients incorporated in vivid flavor combinations and impeccable presentation. The menu caters a selection of Teppanyaki and Hot Stone dishes, while highlighting the vast selection of sushi and maki rolls, including favorites Salmon Sashimi, Truffle Sea Bass Nigiri, Spicy Tuna Uramaki, and Avocado and Hosomaki Eel Maki. Catching the true essence of the cuisine, the menu also offers light bites, soups and starters featuring Tataki, Tartars, Gyoza and more. The mains include a selection of fresh fish, meat and vegetarian options. Ending the meal on a flavour guests will reminisce, the desserts are play on classics with Japanese elements like Sakura Pie, Ginger Tiramisu, Nachi Pear and the Chocolate Fondant. Meticulously planned with greater detail to the ambiance from lighting to the music, KYO perfects the gastronomic affair with a delicious cuisine, crafted drinks and impeccable service.
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11, 12 Some of the delicious items on offer at Toro Toro 13, 14 The interior features a South American theme
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TORO TORO DUBAI The restaurant and bar Toro Toro went through a redevelopment aiming for a fresh new look with an intimate atmosphere and relaxed space that accommodates a wide range of clientele. Yet, distinct features of its South American theme have been retained to keep the transformation seamless. Located at the landmark Luxury Collection hotel, the Grosvenor House, in Dubai, it offers an amazing view of the Marina. The restaurant came into existence after well-renowned South American chef Patron Richard Sandoval partnered with the Grosvenor House. To bring forth a new and revamped Toro Toro, different materials were implemented, like chevron patterned oak floors, oversized leaf wallpaper, dark concrete for the walls, leather for seating, and woven cushions and Pampas rugs for traditional detailing.
In addition, recycled leather belt panels were added to the reception desk, the smoked oak timber joinery and waiter stations included hand painted detailing. In the bar area, chocolatecolored fur throws on leather chairs give a backto-basics feel. A selection of furniture is custom-made. Dining chairs from Stellar Works, the sofas, arch mirrors, and candle chandeliers were from Restoration Hardware, and White Moss DĂŠcor provided black timber and leather weave lounge chairs. It also features saddle armchairs from Timothy Oulton, pendant lights from Brokis, locally made live edge tables with live walnut tops were made by Chabros. torotoro-dubai.com
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Refined ELEGANCE Billed as the next evolution of Genesis signature design language, the 2020 G90 boasts a range of enhancements on the exterior and interior, elevating it to a status worthy of being the brand’s flagship sedan. Durrah experiences the beloved newcomer and all its offerings, as we capture the luxury sedan’s majestic profile on the streets of Bahrain’s capital. 01 A stylish luxury sedan 02 A revamped look that is guaranteed to impress
The first thing we noticed when we looked at the 2020 G90 is that it received a significant makeover from the previous models. The look is not only refreshingly new, but it has a unique elegance to it. It now has a genuine luxury feel. The color palette is expanded inside and out for a more emotive look and feel, while G90 continues to provide an exemplary driving experience backed by superior quality. With the exception of the roof and doors, every exterior body panel on the 2020 G90 has been replaced or changed. From front to back, the styling of the 2020 G90 evolves the Genesis brand’s Athletic Elegance design language. In front, the signature Crest Grille is flanked by Quad Lamps. In the rear, Quad Lamps wrap around from corner to corner. The license plate is placed as low as possible, further accentuating a low and wide stance. The elongated, horizontal side profile of G90 is characterized by vigor and dignity. G-Matrix, a Genesis design hallmark inspired by light reflecting from an illuminating diamond, is applied to the headlights and taillights to emphasize refined proportions and balanced architecture. For the first time, the G-Matrix pattern is applied to the optional, 19-inch wheels, which also feature sound absorption technology to noticeably reduce tire noise.
Sitting behind the wheel in the 2020 G90, we have to laud the level of comfort achieved. The features and material have been significantly improved, giving you the exact same feeling you’d get when driving one of the well-established luxury sedan brands. A feeling for us that, when complemented with Bahrain’s sights and streets, made for a truly exhilarating experience. Add to that its reasonable pricing, and this car is poised to be give its competition a real headache. The 2020 G90 is offered in two trim level configurations: 3.3T Premium and 5.0 Ultimate. The 3.3T Premium features a 3.3-liter turbocharged V-6 engine generating 365 horsepower and 376 lb-ft. of torque, while the 5.0 Ultimate comes with a 5.0-liter V-8 engine for 420 horsepower and 383 lb-ft. of torque. Both feature 8-speed automatic transmission and standard rear-wheel drive. Allwheel drive is optional. The interior design embodies the ethos of Horizontal Architecture, dominated by a harmonious, flow of horizontal surfaces including a parallel layout that includes air ventilation system, and audio controls that maximize simplicity and provide an intuitive user experience. Immediately evident is a focus on premium materials and finishes that are befitting a flagship, including
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“The look is not only refreshingly new, but it has a unique elegance to it.�
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authentic chrome plating applied to switches and premium leather wrapping applied to the center console. Authentic, open-pore wood acts as a garnish, as does double stitching and piping throughout the cabin. The 2020 G90 introduces multiple technology firsts for the Genesis brand, as befitting a flagship. It is the first Genesis vehicle to offer over-the-air wireless updates for maps and software. Its 12.3inch display navigation system now incorporates touchscreen controls and a copper Graphic User Interface. The split screens are highlighted with signature copper accents. Further enhancing the technological capabilities of G90 are standard Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Mirror Link. Intelligent Car Management Service personalizes the driving experience using data to analyze driving patterns and informs the driver of necessary maintenance and vehicle wear. The interior environment is more serene, thanks to Active Noise Cancellation (ANC), which reduces noise, vibration and harshness using leading audio technology to reduce unwanted noise intrusion. Occupant convenience is enhanced when entering tunnels through automatic external air prevention. The adaptive control suspension minimizes vibration in real time. The Genesis Adaptive Control Suspension with electronic damping control smoothly and precisely manages body motions throughout the range of dynamics with minimal compromises to ride comfort. As our test drive came to an end, the verdict was easy: the 2020 G90 deserves its favorable ranking among luxury sedans. The ride, the vibe, the material - all elements came together in beautiful harmony to create a real gem: a true to heart and true to form luxury sedan. genesis.com 05 03 The new model is packed with state-of-the-art technology 04, 06 From front to back, the styling exudes athletic elegance 05 The comfortable and stylish interior
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Q By Aston Martin Vantage & DBS Superleggera 007 Limited Edition
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01, 02, 03 The Vantage 007 Edition, inspired by the original Aston Martin V8 which made its 007 debut in The Living Daylights in 1987 04, 05 The DBS Superleggera 007, limited to just 25 production cars worldwide
Aston Martin is celebrating the release of the 25th James Bond film, with two exclusive 007 special editions inspired by the cars featured in No Time to Die. This new collaboration between Aston Martin and EON Productions, the company that produces the James Bond films with Metro Goldwyn Mayer Studios, delivers exciting new 007 editions of the Aston Martin Vantage and DBS Superleggera. The two special editions that celebrate the release of No Time To Die, each of which is being offered in limited numbers to buyers around the world from today, have been carefully designed and crafted by the experts in Aston Martin’s bespoke division: Q by Aston Martin. Aspiring to offer the ultimate in bespoke personalization services, Q by Aston Martin delivers both carefully curated special editions such as these, as well as the opportunity for individual owners to embark on the creation of utterly individual sports cars via the Q by Aston Martin – Commission service. The first of the two models is the Vantage 007 Edition, inspired by the original Aston Martin V8 which made its 007 debut in The Living Daylights in 1987 and also features in No Time to Die. The movie sees James Bond uncover the car from his personal lock-up in London. Building on the formidable sporting style and aggressive performance of the regular Vantage, the new car features unique exterior styling treatments led by a bespoke mesh grille with chrome bezel that references the look of the brand’s classic V8. Further styling details include a dashed yellow diffuser inspired by the hazard stripes on the film car’s rockets. The
Vantage 007 Edition can even be delivered with a set of The Living Daylights inspired limited edition skis and ski rack – referencing the ‘winterised’ V8 saloon from the film. Available as a manual or automatic, the Vantage 007 Edition also boasts a side strake Vantage badge and is limited to 100 units globally. To celebrate the James Bond debut of the rangetopping Aston Martin DBS Superleggera, a second unique 007 Edition has been created. Strictly limited to just 25 production cars available worldwide and featuring the same specification as the muscular DBS Superleggera featured in the upcoming film, the car has a suitably menacing road presence. The 715bhp provided by the DBS Superleggera’s 5.2-litre V12 twin-turbocharged engine is befitting of the car’s range-topping status while its torque peak, at 900Nm, is not only substantial in its own right but, as things currently stand, the greatest torque figure for any roadgoing Aston Martin yet produced. To this potent mix, the DBS Superleggera 007 Edition adds a raft of styling and design enhancements that further elevate its appeal. The car sports special Ceramic Grey exterior paint with the roof, mirror caps, splitter, diffuser and rear Aeroblade IITM featured in black tinted carbon fibre. Also unique to the 007 Edition are visually striking Gloss Black diamond-turned Y-Spoke 21” wheels. This special edition also features a 007 fender badge, finished in chrome with a black enamel infill and Stainless Steel Silver 007 foil applied to the rear spoiler blade. astonmartin.com
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Maserati MC20 For Maserati, this is the start of a new Era. The Trident brand takes center stage with revolutionary new cars, innovations and projects: for the Brand, the focus is strongly on the future. After the spark ignited by the Ghibli Hybrid, presented in July, the power of the Trofeo Collection launched in August, and the world première of the MC20 super sports car, revealed to the world with an unprecedented event, the time has now come for a real journey into the future of Maserati in Modena, where the Brand’s tomorrow is being built, starting from its roots. Innovation, passion and uniqueness guide the Brand in this phase of total renewal. The startingpoint for this journey is the historic plant on Viale Ciro Menotti in Modena. The Modena plant, where the Trident has had its home for over 80 years, is a magical location that combines the Brand’s “made in Italy” DNA and its Heritage with an irrepressible drive towards the future and innovation: the plant has been modernized with new production, engine assembly and painting facilities specifically for the new MC20. In fact, the Nettuno, the supercar’s groundbreaking V6 power unit, is the first creation of the
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Maserati Engine Lab, the new engine hub recently created within the Modena site, which has also, for the first time in its history, been equipped with a state-of-the-art, environment-friendly paintshop. MC20 is the first step in the new Era, the first model that marks out a new path to the future. The supercar’s strikingly elegant design is achieved by finely balancing a series of opposites: a blend of craftsmanship and engineering, elegance and performance, racing spirit and pleasure at the wheel. Designed by the Maserati Style Centre in Turin, MC20 is 100% developed, engineered and produced in Modena, and began to take shape in the laboratories of the Maserati Innovation Lab, the Trident brand’s engineering hub, a facility of excellence where all the Maserati models of today and tomorrow are brought to life. In the Maserati Innovation Lab in Modena, digital processes support the product’s development, applying the exclusive Maserati formula which adopts an integrated approach to prioritize the human factor right from the initial phases: customer-focus is incorporated in the world of
virtual simulation with an exclusive hardwaresoftware mix. In fact, more than 90% of the MC20’s vehicle dynamics were developed with the aid of virtual models, using an innovative approach called Virtual Vehicle Dynamics Development, managed by Maserati in-house. The new Maserati GranTurismo and GranCabrio will be the Brand’s first cars to adopt 100% electric solutions; they will be engineered in Modena and built at the Turin production hub. There will also be an electric version of the MC20, to be produced at the Maserati plant in Modena. The first step in the range’s electrification is Ghibli Hybrid, launched in June. The challenge facing Maserati was to enter the world of electrification without betraying the Brand’s core philosophy and values. The result? The creation of the best possible hybrid. Keeping faith with its DNA, Maserati has chosen a hybrid solution focused primarily on improving performance, while also saving fuel and cutting emissions. maserati.com
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Cadillac 2021 Escalade Cadillac unveiled the all-new 2021 Escalade, completely redesigned with pioneering new technologies that add new dimension to the iconic luxury SUV. Featuring exclusive, first-to-market technology advances including a curved Organic Light Emitting Diode (OLED) screen, the first AKG automotive audio system and Cadillac’s acclaimed Super Cruise driver assistance technology, the fifth-generation of Cadillac’s flagship expands on its more than 20 years of segment-defining leadership. The 2021 Escalade has been completely redesigned to deliver improved driving dynamics and significantly greater passenger and cargo capacities. The 2021 Escalade features OLED and camera technologies developed to enhance driver vision, while its signature design evolves and strengthens, with added layers of craftsmanship and unique appearances for Sport and Luxury models. Escalade’s industry-first curved OLED display offers more than 38 inches of total diagonal display area, with twice the pixel density of a 4K television. The technology delivers bold imagery, perfect blacks and the largest color range of any automotive display in production today. The system includes three screens: a 7.2-inchdiagonal touch control panel driver information center to the driver’s left, a 14.2-inch-diagonal
cluster display behind the steering wheel and a 16.9-inch-diagonal Infotainment screen to the driver’s right. The OLED is paper-thin, and its curvature positions the displays for optimal visibility. The vivid color and visual quality of OLED technology also eliminated the need for the common “hood” shrouding many typical in-vehicle screens, creating a brighter and less cluttered environment. Escalade’s new interior design is heavily influenced by Cadillac’s Escala concept vehicle - a design that also debuted an OLED display - and breaks new ground with the first-ever Gideon Whisper Beige trim combination. This highperformance, high-fashion available interior is centered on a custom-woven fabric that adds a new level of style and ambience to the Escalade’s cabin. The new curved OLED display is the centerpiece of the interior, enabling designers to integrate and customize the entire environment, rather than simply inserting a standard rectangular screen into a conventional instrument panel. The result is a completely fresh, integrated cabin look that seamlessly blends the technology with handcrafted details. A mix of electronic controls and physical switches offer intuitive operation of vehicle features. The OLED display includes touch-screen control for the center
display, while the interior also includes a full-feature rotary dial controller and steering wheel controls. Additional touches include stainless-steel speaker grilles, intricate piping on the door panels and ambient lighting with a wide range of color choices. The interior is further distinguished by no less than eight color and trim choices, which include unique seat designs, with custom perforation and quilting patterns. Confidence-inspiring performance remains a hallmark of the 2021 Escalade, with a new 6.2L V-8 engine offered as standard. With variable valve timing, stop/start and Dynamic Fuel Management technologies, it balances performance - 420 hp (313 kW) - with comparative efficiency. For the first time ever, the Escalade is also offered with an available 3.0L turbo-diesel engine, which is designed to produce strong torque across the power band for confident performance and trailering capability. In fact, its 460 lb-ft (623 Nm) of peak torque matches the 6.2L V-8. Both engines are matched with a 10-speed automatic transmission with electronic shift control; and a trailering package is standard on all models. An enhanced trailering experience is offered with the available Trailering Integration Package. cadillacarabia.com
10 The 2021 Escalade, the fifthgeneration of Cadillac’s flagship 11, 12 One of the new features is significantly greater passenger and cargo capacities 13 A new 6.2L V-8 engine is offered as standard
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ARTISAN OF LETTERS Self-made artist Mohsen Ghareeb brings special flare to words. His creations, which showcase a combination of his natural gifts and religious upbringing, serve as achievements that adorn walls and spaces throughout the Kingdom. A talented calligrapher, sculptor, and painter, his work features a meticulous attention to detail that not only won the hearts of the public, but the praise of fellow artists as well. 01 Exquisite artwork that shows attention to detail 02 Mohsen Ghareeb
WHEN DID YOU DISCOVER YOUR PASSION FOR THE ARTS? WAS THE JOURNEY DIFFICULT AT FIRST? I fell in love with arts when I was 13 years old. I remember back then, the calligraphy used in the Holy Quran and commercial ads used to catch my eyes a lot. The beginning was actually very difficult because the tools were not available to us. Things are different now, but it used to be a real struggle to find the raw material you needed to start creating.
WHAT ARE THE THEMES YOU LIKE TO EXPLORE THROUGH YOUR ART? WHAT INSPIRES YOU?
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I find inspiration in certain events and developments, particularly national, religious, and social occasions. I’m also inspired by my experiences when traveling from one country to the next. I share a special bond with the places I visit. I grew up in a modest family in one of the old houses in the Kingdom. I revisit those memories for certain ideas in terms of colors and effects. My childhood is a neverending source of inspiration to me.
IS THERE A CENTRAL THEME OR CONCEPT THAT LINKS ALL YOUR WORKS? There are a number of symbols, points and terms that reoccur throughout my works. For example, birds. Quranic verses dominate the majority of my calligraphy work. I come from a religious family, so the Holy Quran was always going to have a big role in my art. In terms of style, Diwani calligraphy script was the mainstay in all my projects up to until two years ago. Since then, I have been focusing on the new Mujawher cursive, which is a variation of the Maghrebi script. As for colors, there are certain colors that appear in all my works. However, they do change from time to time. There was a period when I focused on black and white, then on azure blue, then turquoise, and then hot colors such as red, orange, and yellow.
HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE YOUR ARTISTIC STYLE? WOULD YOU CLASSIFY IT AS MODERN OR CLASSIC? I started with calligraphy. I learned it the proper way with all its foundations and rules. I would
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say I took a modern approach to calligraphy art, combining it with the classic to produce abstract art. There is that mixture of the old and new. It’s evident in my calligraphy work, as well as my sculptures and paintings.
WHICH OF YOUR WORKS IS CLOSEST TO YOUR HEART? The ones with the most beautiful memories! Also, the ones that I really poured my heart and soul into for a long time. Some of my projects take less than two days to finish, but some take up to two months. It becomes something very important to me. Those very special projects wouldn’t exceed 5% from the total number of my works.
WHO ARE THE ARTISTS THAT INFLUENCED YOU AND HELPED SHAPE YOUR ARTISTIC APPROACH? There were quite a few. In sculpting, I was influenced by the great works of Henry Moore and Roman sculptures. As for local and contemporary artists, Ebrahim BuSaad had a big effect on me in the beginning. To this day, his work is stellar and he remains a brilliant calligrapher and painter. I’ve learned a lot from Abdulla Al Arab, Salman Akbar, and Abbas Yousif, all amazing artists. I’ve also been influenced by some of the younger generations in Bahrain Contemporary Art Association such as
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“My childhood is a never-ending source of inspiration to me.” 03, 04, 05 Drums of War, 2016, bronze
Khalid Janahi, Ahmed Anan, and Anas Al Shaikh. This group benefited me a lot, however, from the very beginning, I made sure to try and carve my own style without letting any other artist have too much of an influence on me. I always adopt a unique approach or style in my work.
HOW DO YOU VIEW THE ART COMMUNITY IN BAHRAIN? There’s a lot more that still needs to be done for that community to reach its full potential. We need to build a close relationship between the artist and the public. Social media has had a substantial effect in helping us get to that goal. People are now genuinely passionate about art. However, we still need to do more to reach the levels we see in Europe and East Asia. The bond between the artist and his audience needs to be much stronger.
WHAT ARE YOUR AMBITIONS FOR THE FUTURE? I have plans to launch a calligraphy school to serve students and those passionate about the art in the region. I also aim to have personal exhibitions in Europe and reach a bigger circle, not just limited to GCC and Arab countries. 05
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My Wish List The latest and most exclusive luxury items for men
Bugatti Baby II Unlike the original, which was only suitable for the youngest drivers, the Baby II is a three-quarters-size replica of the Bugatti Type 35 so it can be driven by adults. The Baby II will allow automobile enthusiasts from across generations to share the love of driving and of the classic marque of Bugatti. Launching almost a century after its predecessor, the Baby II has been created using the latest technology, but with the utmost respect for Bugatti’s automotive heritage. Hand-built, the car was designed with the aid of a precise digital scan of an original Type 35, built for the 1924 French Grand Prix in Lyon. bugattibaby.com
September 2020
Dunhill Lock Bag First introduced on the fall/winter 2020 runway in Paris, dunhill’s Lock Bag took inspiration from the classic attaché case—a symbol of executive British style. It is also a part of the wider Lock Collection. With dunhill’s characteristic deeply ingrained in the bag’s DNA, a solid frame maintains the structured shape, lined with padded nylon to protect the contents inside. The bag is produced in smooth box calf leather, which is a durable material that ages well over time and will allow each bag to develop its own individual patina and character. There are three choice of colors for this bag: black, ink and oxblood. The Lock Bag is part of the wider Lock Collection, with other alternative styles including the messenger bag and attaché case. dunhill.com
Montblanc Wireless Over-Ear Headphones Montblanc introduces its first Smart Headphones, designed for optimal comfort, enhanced functionality and uncompromising quality. Foldable and compact, these sleek travel companions complete Montblanc’s tech travel offering that contributes to making business and leisure travel more seamless, productive and enjoyable from departure to destination. Features include active noise cancelling technology, advanced technology for impressive sound quality, ergonomic design for greater comfort, fine materials and quality craftsmanship for durability, Google Assistant for a more personalized on-the-go experience featuring voice-activated device control and commands, and functions across a broad range of Bluetooth devices, including iOS & Android. montblanc.com
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September 2020
Nomad Portable Grill & Smoker Creating a great portable grill and smoker is harder than just shrinking down an existing design. Nomad’s entry to the market was built from the ground up to be as versatile and portable as possible. Multi-layer construction keeps the temperature of the exterior low, letting it sit on a variety of surfaces. That same cast aluminum exterior is anodized to protect against corrosion and holds ultralight cast stainless steel grates domed for added clearance from the charcoal. Vent sliders with high-temp magnets allow for precise airflow control, and despite its small size and low (28 lb.) weight, it still offers up to 425 square inches of cooking space in grill mode with an optional second grate or 212 square inches of cooking space with the lid closed for smoking. nomadgrills.com
MB&F Nixie Machine III Frank Buchwald’s “Machine Lights”, an impressive collection of hand-crafted lamps, were part of the initial lineup of artists showcased at the inauguration of the first M.A.D.Gallery in Geneva. They have inspired the admiration of MB&F founder Maximilian Büsser from the start, landing Buchwald’s work a permanent exhibit at the M.A.D.Galleries. The first “Nixie Machine” followed a few years later: a clock created around vintage Nixie tubes, following the same alienlike, sci-fi aesthetic. The new Nixie Machine III represents the next stage of evolution in the work of Frank Buchwald. Each and every detail has been manually handcrafted: from design, construction, and detailed workmanship of the clock to the six Nixie tubes fabricated by Dalibor Farny (see separate paragraph). Forging onwards from the first and second editions of the Nixie Machine series, this third - and final - Nixie Machine consolidates Frank Buchwald’s design and structural principles into a futuristic work of art whose dynamic emphasis is dominated by the machine-like character of the design: the form is compact and vigorous and the proportions perfectly executed. mbandf.com
Off-White Black Arrows Mask This black mask comes with white arrows printed at front. The double elastic can be worn around the head and neck for comfort and stability. The smaller elastic goes first around the neck, the second elastic goes over the ears. The mask has a height of 12 cm and width of 16 cm. The upper elastic length is 34 cm, and the lower elastic length is 22 cm. It’s made from 100% cotton. off---white.com
Oakley Precious Mettle Over the Top Sunglasses Debuted at the 2000 Olympic Games in Sydney, Oakley’s Over the Top shades remain one of the company’s most striking designs. To help commemorate the 2020 games that weren’t, they’re making a comeback with this limited Precious Mettle release. Crafted from O Matter using the original mold, they have the same stemless, over the head design that defined the original. These also have a gradient color treatment that fades from gold to silver to bronze and have modern Prizm lenses for added contrast and color. Limited to just 20 pairs worldwide. oakley.com
MUST HAVE - MEN
186
September 2020
Perros Ceramic Dog An artistic expression for decor and pet lovers, Perros is a luxury collection of decorative figurines inspired by the vintage ceramic dogs. With a modern vibe, the dog’s sculptures are handmade and painted ceramics by skillful artisans. Perros is the ideal decor compliment for a stylish living room, master bedroom or hallway entrance. achcollection.com
Hermes Manufacture de Boucleries longboard This longboard is the ideal transport for traveling through the urban jungle with hair blowing in the wind or for a leisurely stroll. It combines outdoor sport and mobility equipment and tells the colorful story of Hermes silk scarves. Manufacture de Boucleries design by Gianpaolo Pagni printed by sublimation. Material used is beech plywood frame board, Vosges maple, carbon and linen fiber. hermes.com
Brunello Cucinelli Walnut Wood and Double-Walled Glass Bottle Carafe This glass water bottle carafe pulls focus to Brunello Cucinelli’s fascination with natural elements – expressed by the smooth walnut wood lid engraved with a small logo. It’s crafted in the Solomeo studio from mouth-blown glass with a double-walled construction which prevents liquids from warming up too quickly. Note the white base to protect the glass bottom from scratches. brunellocucinelli.com
MUST HAVE - WOMEN
My Wish List The latest and most exclusive luxury items for women
188
September 2020
Montblanc High Artistry, A Celebration of the Taj Mahal The Montblanc High Artistry, A Celebration of the Taj Mahal collection is made up of three different precious writing instruments, each limited to just one piece worldwide, making it one-of-a-kind. Many techniques have been used to bring to life the fascinating world of the Mughal from stone cutting and setting to hand engraving, enameling and elaborate gold work. While materials and gemstones may be different from one edition to the next, each one features a slightly curved shape inspired by a traditional Mughal dagger, an insignia of power. The cap top is reminiscent of the dome of the Taj Mahal, built during the Golden Age of the Mughals. The forepart of the pen features an intricate display of traditional Mughal decorations – India’s famous landmark. While the edition does not feature a clip, a peacock feather adorns the front of the writing instrument, a reference to the peacock throne made for Shah Jahan in the early 17th century. Featuring two open gilded peacock’s tails set with diamonds, rubies and other precious gemstones, it was regarded as one of the most magnificent throne ever made. montblanc.com
Backes & Strauss X Gemfields X Walk for Giants, The Green African Elephant Esteemed British watchmaker Backes & Strauss has created the Green African Elephant watch especially to support Walk for Giants. The stunning timepiece features a slim diamond case attached to a bracelet, which is set with a row of emeralds in the center, surrounded by a row of Backes & Strauss’ signature Ideal cut diamonds on either side. At the core of the watch is the natural green mother-of-pearl dial, which has a beautifully hand-painted elephant at its core. Elephants are synonymous with Africa, and, fittingly, the emblem of Walk for Giants. By putting the elephant at the heart of the timepiece, the watch’s designers are sending a clear message: that time is of the essence when it comes to protecting Africa’s endangered wildlife and habitats. gemfields.com
Michaelngo Revival // Crystal Chameleon This color-morphic crystal encrusted mask is made from 92% polyester and 8% spandex. Breathing new life into remnants of fabric from past creations, each mask represents signature MICHAEL NGO design over the years-including some favorites that pop-culture fans will instantly recognize. It’s made to order, so expect 5-7 Days for fulfillment. Breathing new life into remnants of fabric from past creations, each mask represents signature MICHAEL NGO design over the years-including some favorites that pop-culture fans will instantly recognize. Each of these artisan masks are handmade and embellished by meonly 1 of some designs are available and the others were made in very limited quantities. Percentage of proceeds totaling up to $50,000 go directly to the @ lafoodbank to help provide meals to children, hardworking families, struggling seniors and many others within lower-income communities that have been disproportionately affected by COVID-19. michaelngo.us
Gucci Medium Marble Print Candle, Esotericum Scent This collection of scented candles is embellished with motifs of the House. A blend of wax infused with aromatic extracts and essential oils is presented in Richard Ginori porcelain printed with an antique marbled effect. One side features the Gucci logo while the other displays the phrase “Souvenir from Rome.” The scent Esotericum, combines the bitter aroma of Seville oranges with the intricacies of jasmine, finished with warm notes of leather and salt. The collection features black Richard Ginori porcelain with marble print, “Gucci” print on one side, “Souvenir from Rome” print on the other side, black marble print porcelain lid with black hand and key detail, scented paraffin wax with cotton wick, and Esotericum: Jasmine, orange bitter and leather. It has an approximate burn time of 68 hours. The porcelain jar can be reused as a decorative accent or container. gucci.com
MUST HAVE - WOMEN
190
September 2020
Hermes Carre Taquin Beach Rackets Made in France, this set of 2 beach rackets comes in printed beechwood and cork. Silkscreened rubber ball is also included. It measures 8.9” x 15.7”. Gianpaolo Pagni is a multi-disciplinary artist who works at the intersection of contemporary art, publishing and illustration. For almost twenty years, he has been creating stamps and using them as design tools. On Carre Taquin, he has stayed true to this technique, playing with the six letters of Hermes to create a graphic design that recalls a puzzle. A beach towel, bag and beach tennis rackets will equip young and old alike for a playful day out at the beach. hermes.com
Christian Louboutin Elisa Embellished Leather Phone Case Christian Louboutin’s case is intended to hold a phone, but you’ll be able to fit a lipstick and a couple of cards inside, too - the interior is lined in signature red and fitted with multiple slots. Made in Italy from smooth black leather, it has a rectangular profile and fastens with an elegantly engraved turn lock. Wear it cross-body on nights out. The case has a depth of 3cm, height of 19cm, and width of 1cm. The strap length stretches to a maximum of 117cm. christianlouboutin.com
Dior Large Ochre and Green Pineapple Glass Vase This delicate, transparent hand-blown glass vase is crafted in the shape of an ochre and green pineapple. A timeless motif, this exotic fruit has been used on the House’s tableware since 1973, and is reinterpreted and enhanced by the beauty of Italian blown glass, reflecting exceptional craftsmanship. There’s a summer breeze gently wafting through this unique new line of objects by Cordelia de Castellane, themed around sculptural pineapple motifs enhanced by subtle relief effects and delicate plays on transparency. The tropical fruit - a timeless symbol of sunshine that featured as the central motif in a Dior tableware collection from summer 1973 - now is reinterpreted and enhanced by the beauty of Italian blown glass, reflecting exceptional craftsmanship. dior.com
Tiffany Coffee & Tea Sets Elevate your daily ritual or next brunch spread with an artful coffee and tea set, charming servers and everyday objects that make a sip by yourself or with loved ones extra special. Since its inception in 1837, Tiffany & Co. has been guided by the belief that a successful company has a responsibility to the greater community. The Tiffany & Co. Foundation was established in 2000 to focus the company’s philanthropic endeavors. tiffany.com
Jonathan Adler Checkerboard Backgammon Set Checks, mate. A classic pattern gets a rainbow makeover in this bright, bold Checkerboard Backgammon Set. Crafted in couture lacquer and featuring a nifty interior pattern, this backgammon set is chic, graphique, classique. After vanquishing your foes, fold it closed for a cool cocktail table accent. Potter, designer and author Jonathan Adler launched his namesake brand after leaving his day job to pursue his first love: pottery. In 1993, Barneys bought his collection of pots, and five years later, he opened his first store in Soho. Jonathan’s desire to design all the bits one needs to create a flawlessly chic home led to more and more. jonathanadler.com
BOOK REVIEW
192
True Devotion
September 2020
Made possible with the support of HRH Prince Faisal bin Salman Al Saud, ‘Al Aghawat’ (The Guardian) gives readers an in-depth look at the tasks, responsibilities, and customs of the people living in service of the Two Holy Mosques at the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
Used in Turkish, Kurdish and Persian languages, the word ‘Agha’ denoted several titles and positions in various languages throughout time, however, in Saudi Arabia, the word is reserved for those who serve the Holy Mosques. The book is a visual trip inside the old mosque, where the story of the guardians started with Salahuddin al-Ayyubi 8 centuries ago, and where it is now coming to an end. The continuous expansion of the mosque and the widening spread of Islam necessitated the existence of a group that oversaw all the affairs of the mosque, and that’s where The Guardians came in. The introduction of the book offers very interesting details describing the life of an ‘Agha’. Their daily activities at the mosque are explained step-by-step, including the unique process for opening the Woman’s Gate, how they prepare for the arrival of people for the prayer at dawn, and many other traditions that have lasted hundreds of years, traded down from one generation to the next.
The book complements its extremely informative text with an incredible collection of photos. You can clearly see the lines formed along the faces of the aging Guardians, and yet, somehow, there is a light in their eyes that still shines bright. Despite the struggles and changing times, they have held on to their role as devoted servants to the cause of the holy mosque and the greater message of Islam. They are known to be quiet, but the level of dedication they have given to their role, and the esteemed position they hold within the ranks of the holy mosque and among true believers are enough to speak louder than any words. The book also explains how their numbers dwindled over the years, as they got older and less capable of physical activities. Only a few remain today, sitting in wait of one prayer after the next. The Guardians takes you on an incredible journey from within Al-Masjid An-Nabawi, the mosque that saw the first generation of ‘Aghawat’ emerge from Abyssinia, and is now witnessing their last.
BOOK REVIEW
194
September 2020
“Despite the struggles and changing times, they have
held on to their role as devoted servants to the cause of the holy mosque and the greater message of Islam.�
FINAL PEARL
195
Formula 1 Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix 2020 and Rolex Sakhir Grand Prix 2020 The Bahrain International Circuit, “The Home of Motorsport in the Middle East”, will host two races on consecutive weekends as the penultimate race venue for the 2020 Formula 1 World Championship. The two races will be Formula 1 Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix 2020, which takes place 27 to 29 November 2020, and the Formula 1 Rolex Sakhir Grand Prix 2020, which takes place 4 to 6 December 2020. This will be the first time that the Kingdom of Bahrain will host two Formula 1 races in a season. The updated F1 calendar has been issued following the postponement and cancellation of a number of Grands Prix due to the global pandemic. F1 has now announced a total of 17 races for the 2020 season. As the health and safety of all participants is of the highest importance, a decision on whether to host fans at these race weekends will be made in due course. That evaluation will be based on instructions and guidance from the Government of Bahrain. BIC Chief Executive Sheikh Salman bin Isa Al Khalifa commented: “Over the last few months, we have worked closely with Formula 1 and the FIA, as they have sought to plan the 2020 calendar. We thank Formula 1 for offering us the opportunity to host two races, which reflects the exciting racing which our venue consistently
delivers for fans, and their faith in Bahrain’s ability to host both races safely for all involved. Since F1 restarted its season, it has demonstrated its ability to deliver incredible racing in a safe and secure environment, with detailed measures and procedures in place to protect the health of all participants. We congratulate F1 and the FIA in particular for demonstrating clear leadership within the global sports industry. With health and safety of paramount importance, we are working closely with the Government of Bahrain, as well as with the F1 and the FIA, to structure the race weekend according to prevailing best practice, for the protection of all involved. Development is underway on the detailed planning of the event format. We will provide regular updates as our plans as we move forward. Finally, we express our deepest gratitude to His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa for his unwavering leadership and care for all citizens and residents in the Kingdom; and to His Royal Highness Prince Khalifa bin Salman Al Khalifa, the Prime Minister, and His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, Crown Prince, Deputy Supreme Commander and First Deputy Prime Minister, for their invaluable leadership in the battle against COVID-19.” bahraingp.com
September 2020