Le Kap - Summer 2015/16

SOUTH AFRICA’S PREMIER LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE

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THE BLONDE BOMBSHELL ...

LOVE HIM OR HATE HIM JT FOXX GETS RESULTS

THE ALLURE OF CHANEL

EXOTIC FUSIONS

A PLACE OF RAW UNDEFINED BEAUTY

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FROM THE EDITOR In a previous editor’s note I suggested that it seems as one gets older, time seems to pass more fleetingly. I can hardly believe that the end of the year is in sight and that this edition of Le Kap will bring 2015 to its conclusion, confirming this theory.

Generally speaking, 2015 was a difficult year for South Africa on both the political and economic fronts. The ever weakening Rand and the ongoing political tug-of-war fuelled a rather negative atmosphere. On the other hand the Le Kap team enthusiastically faced up to these challenges and as a team we embraced and built on the positive aspects our young country has on offer.

We will again apply the same enthusiasm, as all South Africans should, throughout 2016 and continue to build on our sound foundations and deliver a ‘world class’ magazine to our readers. The year 2016 also marks the second birthday for Le Kap magazine.

I am extremely pleased with the exponential growth of the publication, not only regarding our ever-expanding advertising and readership footprint, but also in the way that the publication has now firmly established itself as the leader in the luxury market sector.

On a personal front, Le Kap magazine has been the key that has unlocked numerous new friendships, both here in South Africa and abroad.

I am delighted to announce that ‘Le Mag Publications Group’ will be expanding its footprint beyond South African borders during 2016, with the launch of Le Emirates in the United Arab Emirates during 2016.

In conclusion, I would like to extend our sincere gratitude to our readership, writers, staff and our advertising partners who as a combined team account for the success of Le Kap. I wish you and your beloved ones a blessed Christmas and a peaceful and prosperous 2016.

Steve Swanepoel - Founder & CEO - Le Mag Publications Group

I N C I N EMAS

JAMES BOND’S CHOICE

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editor-in-chief l Steve Swanepoel automotive lifestyle editor l Richard Webb creative l by Le Mag Publications Group proofreaders l Moira Theart l Marion Pfeiffer photographers l Various wine correspondents l Jean Vincent Ridon l Jörg Pfützner international research & correspondents Howard Linsee-Tutill l Liz Webber advertising enquiries l sales@lemagpublications.com

CONTENTS

editorial enquiries l info@lemagpublications.com event enquiries l info@lemagpublications.com website l Warren Richardson editorial contributors l Richard Webb, Liz Webber, Johann Botha, Daniel Snyman, Steve Swanepoel, Jean-Vincent Ridon, Kobus Wilmans, Sarah Woods, Moira Theart, Marion Pfeiffer, Jeffrey S. Kingston, Jac Hejman, Carey Townsend publisher l Le Mag Publications Group editor l editor@lemagpublications.com email l info@lemagpublications.com web l www.lemagpublications.com tel l 021 829 7120 l 021 829 7205 fax l 086 554 5580

COPYRIGHT © 2015 l 2016 - LE MAG PUBLICATIONS GROUP The opinions and views expressed herein are not necessarily those of the Le Mag Publications Group. The publisher and editor regretfully cannot accept any liability for omissions or errors contained in this publication. The ownership of registered trademarks is duly acknowledged. No part of this publication or any of its content may be reproduced, digitally stored or transmitted in any format without the express and written permission of the publishing editor.

FRONT COVER l JT FOXX 04 FROM THE EDITOR 10 THE BLONDE BOMBSHELL 18 JT FOXX 20 THE ART OF GUILLOCHE 26 THAILAND’S OBSCURE CELEBRATION 30 CRAIG PORT 36 THE ALLURE OF THE CHANEL BAG

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Rendez-Vous Moon watch Carmen Chaplin, Actor and Director

Open a whole new world

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40 Breguet and the art of Guilloche

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CONTENTS CONT ...

BY JEFFREY S. KINGSTON

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eft brain. Right brain. Sensible and functional or artistic and

emotional? How often do objects or designs fall into one box or the other? Almost always. This is why absolutely nobody waxes poetic on the subject of minivans or plans flower arrangements for a Navy Seals 40 AT training EASE IN exercise.

THE MIDDLE OF A VAST OCEAN

70 THE MAGNIFICENT LEOPARD 43 POWERCAT

46 OH CLARENS YOU BEAUTY

76 STRAUSS & CO

But if there is to be an exception that proves the rule, guilloche

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decoration is the perfect example.

80 THE MAJESTY 135

54 CONTEMPORARY BAYSIDE ELEGANCE

86 ONE ON ONE WITH GORDEN WAGENER

60 A PLACE OF RAW UNDEFINED BEAUTY

90 THE HOUSE OF VAN RYN

66 INFLUENTIAL FURNITURE DESIGNERS

93 EXOTIC FUSIONS

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The Blonde Bombshell ‘Imperfection is beauty, madness is genius and it's better to be absolutely ridiculous than absolutely boring.’ MM

BY MARION PFEIFFER

With a beauty spot on her cheek, platinum blonde hair, a voluptuous figure and lisping breathless voice, Marilyn Monroe continues to be regarded as one of the world’s most popular and enduring icons of sex appeal and beauty. One of the most celebrated of all actresses she is also remembered for her determination to master her art, her quirky sense of humour and sly wit. Once asked what she wore to bed, she answered, ‘Chanel No 5’. Although Marilyn was always photographed smiling, she was often depressed and lonely. Many consider her to have been simply a dumb blonde, a role she often played in her films, but her IQ is said to have been 169, placing her on the genius scale. Her unexpected death of a drug overdose on 5 August 1962 at the age of 36 at her home in Brentwood, Los Angeles was mourned by many and remains the subject of conspiracy theorists and writers who seek the truth.

Born on the 1st of June 1926 in Los Angeles, her birth name was Norma Jean Mortensen, later changed to Norma Jean Baker, the surname of an earlier boyfriend of her mother, Gladys. She was never quite sure who her father was. Marilyn had a difficult childhood because Gladys, who was widowed and mentally ill, left her in numerous foster homes, including a spell in an orphanage. At the age of 16 she married James Dougherty, a 21-year-old aircraft plant worker.

She later described this as a rashly agreed-to marriage that was no love match, but rather helped her to combat feelings of loneliness and self-doubt and avoided her being placed in foster care again.

Four years later, in 1946, they divorced and Marilyn changed her hair colour to her trademark platinum blonde and began to model swimsuits. Howard Hughes, RKO Pictures head, offered her a screen test after he had seen her modelling portfolio. However, Marilyn followed the advice of an agent and opted for a screen test at the more prestigious 20th Century Fox film studio, which resulted in her first contract at $125 per week for a period of six months.

The contract was later extended and the studio enrolled her in the ‘Actors Laboratory Theatre’ that taught the techniques of group

theatre. Marilyn dedicated herself to acting, singing and dancing roles and was eager to learn more about the film business. The iconic Marilyn was the result of very hard work. She spent many hours watching others work and observed their skills, in order to improve her talent. She also studied the work of Jean Harlow and Lana Turner for makeup and hairstyle ideas and dedicated hours to practising her body language and facial expressions in front of the mirror.

Her first films, ‘The Shocking Miss Pilgrim’ in 1947, followed by ‘Dangerous Years’ in the same year and ‘Scudda Hoo! Scudda Hay!’ in 1948, were not very successful. As a result 20th Century Fox did not renew her contract and Marilyn was forced to return to modelling and acting school. She subsequently received a contract from Columbia Pictures that led to a role in ‘Ladies in the Chorus’ during 1948, but this was also not well received. In 1949, she posed nude for the now infamous calendar shot, which first appeared in Playboy magazine in 1953. This boosted her career.

Two out of five films produced in 1950 resulted in good reviews as she was noted for her ditzy, but very sexy blonde performance. Ezra Goodman, from Los Angeles Daily News, credited her as ‘one of the brightest up-and-coming actresses’ for her role in Love Nest and her performances were described by some critics as superb.

By 1951, Marilyn was becoming known to the public who enjoyed her volcanic sexuality wrapped in an aura of childhood innocence. In 1953, she started dating the baseball star, Joe DiMaggio, and had become a box office drawing card. She appeared in four more films that year, including ‘Gentlemen Prefer Blondes’ and ‘How to Marry a Millionaire’.

In 1954, she married Joe and established her own production company, Marilyn Monroe Productions. She also filmed ‘There’s No Business Like Show Business’, followed by ‘The Seven Year Itch’ in 1955, which showcased her comedic talent. One of the most famous scenes in film history is in ‘The Seven Year Itch’, with Marilyn standing on top of a subway grating and the wind from a passing

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train lifting up her white dress. Her marriage to Joe lasted only eight months and she was yet again suspended for not reporting to work on a second film that year. The amount of work available to her was starting to slow down, mostly due to her being frequently late on set, her various illnesses and unwillingness to co-operate with producers, directors and fellow actors.

During 1956 Marilyn married playwright, Arthur Miller, (they divorced in 1960) and it was in that same year that she showed critics that she could play a straight dramatic role in ‘Bus Stop’, a film produced by her own company. The year 1957 took her to Britain to film ‘The Prince and the Showgirl’, an unimpressive movie produced, once again, by her own production company. During this time Marilyn found an entry in Miller’s diary where he complained that he was disappointed in her and sometimes embarrassed in front of his friends. This devastated her, as it confirmed her fear of disappointing others.

After taking a year off, she returned to the big screen in 1959 to star alongside Tony Curtis and Jack Lemmon in the delightful comedy ‘Some Like It Hot’. Although it was her only film that year, it was a box-office hit. George Cukor’s film, ‘Let’s Make Love’, in 1960 was criticised as stodgy and slow moving. The following year she made what was to be her final film, ‘The Misfits’, with Clark Gable.

Gable died that same year of a heart attack. Once again, her failure to appear on set caused many delays and led to her being fired from the production. This appeared to be the end of her career as studios were hesitant to employ her, as it would cost thousands of dollars in delays.

After this production and her subsequent separation from Miller, Marilyn was committed to a psychiatric ward for a supposed rest cure for exhaustion and insomnia. The actress found herself in a padded room in a locked ward. Eventually, Joe DiMaggio stepped in and removed her from the facility against the objections of the medical staff.

Marilyn appeared to have begun recording her thoughts in diaries around 1951, but to some extent her personal life remains shrouded in mystery. From 1955 she attended the prestigious New York Actors Studio in a quest to replace the sexpot image with serious acting. Acclaimed theatre and movie director, Elia Kazan, with whom she had an affair, encouraged her to work with the renowned drama coach, Lee Strasberg and undergo psychoanalysis to learn more about herself. Strasberg was a genius at analysing an actor’s performance and a stern taskmaster who became a beloved paternal figure, autocratic, yet nurturing. He boosted Marilyn’s confidence, changing her from a movie star into a true artist. Archives reveal a woman in search of herself, touching on her fear of displeasing others, her chronic lateness and the three major traumas of her short life, one buried in her past and two that occurred after her time studying with Strasberg.

Her desperation to have a child was a constant source of despair and distress and accompanied her growing dependency on alcohol and pills throughout her career. Marilyn’s problems have been attributed to a need for support, perfectionism, low selfesteem, anxiety and stage fright leading to her accelerating use of barbiturates and amphetamines. However, these medications only appeared to increase her problems.

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‘If you can make a woman laugh, you can make her do anything.’ Marilyn

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Her much publicised friendship with John F Kennedy, the president of the United States of America, began during a meeting at the home of actor Peter Lawford, the president’s brother-in-law. Most biographers agree that she had an affair with Kennedy although there is little agreement on details and there is no consensus regarding the rumour that she was also involved with his brother, Robert F Kennedy.

One of her most famous appearances was on the 19th of May 1962 when she sang ‘Happy Birthday Mr President’ at Madison Square Gardens in New York. The dress she wore for this occasion later sold for 1 267 500 USD, a world record for the most expensive piece of clothing ever sold.

In total, Marilyn made 30 films in a career lasting only a decade and these films grossed 200 million USD at the time of her death, but her legendary status and mysticism remains present in film history. Still today, her death remains the subject of discussion.

Many believe it was suicide as her emotional fragility and a past suicide attempt imply as much. Others, however, believe it was an accidental overdose as there is evidence of her increasing optimism and her belief that she was becoming able to rely on herself and solve her problems. For conspiracy theorists, however, the fact that she feared Peter Lawford, the brother of Bobby Kennedy, then US Attorney General, with whom she was thought to be romantically involved, creates the possibility of foul play.

Her psychiatrist, Dr Ralph Greenson, found Marilyn deceased in her bedroom after being contacted by her housekeeper who had found the bedroom door locked and sensed that something was wrong. Marilyn’s unexpected death made front-page news all over the world.

Her private funeral arranged by Joe DiMaggio required a police presence to keep spectators away.

In 2016 the Bendigo Art Gallery in Australia will hold a major exhibition of this iconic actress’s wardrobe with an eight metre high statue of Marilyn as the centrepiece. Collections of items belonging to Marilyn will include costumes from films, accessories and various other memorabilia. The gallery director, Karen Quinlan states that Marilyn Monroe is an icon and believes exhibitions like this can change how she is perceived and educate in terms of why she was successful and was immortalised’.

Her enduring popularity is linked to her conflicting public image: the sex symbol and beauty icon and a troubled woman haunted by her past and as a victim of her beauty. One of the most popular sex symbols of the 1950s, she is emblematic of the era’s attitudes towards sexuality. What makes Marilyn such a difficult subject for interpretation is her seductiveness and more than 50 years of academic and critical studies have failed to reach an agreement.

The reality of her sex appeal, vulnerability, the sense of fear of discovery behind all that out-there sexual bravado remains an enigma. In 1973 Elton John, together with his colleague, Bernie Taupin wrote and dedicated a song ‘Candle in the Wind’ to Marilyn with the opening words ‘Goodbye Norma Jean’ considered as a sympathetic portrayal of her life.

‘I never quite understood it, this sex symbol. I always thought symbols were those things you clash together! That’s the trouble.

A sex symbol becomes a thing. I just hate to be a thing. But if I’m going to be a symbol of something I’d rather have it sex than some other things they’ve got symbols of.’ (A quote by Marilyn during an interview in 1962)

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‘Success isn't a matter of chance, it's a matter of choice’ - JT Foxx

BY JOHANN BOTHA

My last sighting of JT Foxx was in November at the JT Foxx Family Reunion annual global event in Orlando, Florida, USA. He was surrounded by more than 800 of his top clients from 51 countries, including 41 South Africans chanting his name and the song ‘Ice Ice baby’, by 90s rap legend Vanilla Ice, in an impromptu surprise concert. Initially, I went there to see if JT Foxx is all that he claims to be. There are still people in South Africa who do not know his name.

This is hard to believe because of the number of his events that are on television programmes – the most well known is the ‘J.T. Foxx Show’ – heard on radio or written about in magazines. The man has been everywhere and the consensus is that you will either love him or think of him as an arrogant American.

Since 2005 JT Foxx has become known as the world’s No 1 wealth coach, serial entrepreneur and philanthropist with a variety of businesses and brands that are internationally recognised. His main interests continue to be lecturing and teaching others how to achieve their goals through unusual practical approaches in order

to realise results in current markets. His audiences appreciate his results-oriented approach that encompasses business and lifestyle.

One of his principle interests is working with youth entrepreneurs and young cancer patients. His contribution to Faces of Hope at the Mega Partnering Africa 2 charity auction is widely recognised. At present, he has started work on a new business reality show and his new book Millionaire Underdog will soon become available.

As South Africans, we are very sceptical but as success stories have emerged relating to his work there has been increasing interest in finding out about JT Foxx. He speaks with passion and energy rarely seen. His message is one made famous by John F. Kennedy, ‘Ask not what your country can do for you but ask what you can do for your country’. One cannot deny what JT Foxx has done for South Africa. He has inspired our youth in Nelspruit, donated money to improve our children’s hospital and helped to break down the barrier regarding the notion that Black Economic Empowerment (BEE) rules all.

LE KAP

His famous quote; ‘If you are born broke, it’s not your fault; if you die broke it’s 100 per cent your fault’ reminds us that the choices we make in life determine the reality of our outcomes. Many international speakers visiting South Africa have come and gone, taking money, hopes and dreams. But JT Foxx came back and he has spent more time in South Africa than in America over the past two years. When frequently asked why he spends so much time here, his answer is always, ‘I love South Africa, I feel like it’s home’.

With the Rand crashing by 20 per cent over the past year alone, why would such an accomplished international entrepreneur remain here? When I was at a cocktail party in Orlando I gained some understanding why. JT, who was born in Canada, gathered the Canadian clients together to sing their national anthem in both French and English. Next, the US National anthem was sung with about 450 people and the booming chant of USA USA USA echoed through the terrace despite the hurricane force winds and rain.

Then he silenced the crowd and said, ‘I want to bring a country up here that has meant so much to me and its people, I love them. Let’s bring the South Africans up’ and all 42 of them, myself included, began singing the South African national anthem and this was followed by the chant of Africa, Africa, Africa. It’s a moment that I will never forget, I was proud to be South African and not reminded that back home there are many problems with high unemployment, continued racial strife and a country that can’t get power 365 days a year but rather a strong country that the world respects.

It’s not only the businesses that JT Foxx started globally that impress me, or the stories of successful entrepreneurs he creates or even his

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charity work in our country: I am most impressed with his heart.

Once you get past the Simon Cowell / Donald Trump powerful aura of directness, here is a man who rises every morning and does not think, ‘how can I make more money’, but rather ‘how many lives can I change’. This does not only apply to South Africa, as he has influenced attendees from Norway, Iceland, Sweden, Finland, Singapore, Kuala Lumpur, just to name a few. All emphasise that his passion and desire to succeed inspires them and they collectively agree that although JT Foxx speaks in more than 39 countries each year, he always talks about South Africa and the love he has developed for the country.

So is JT Foxx real? There is no question that this man has charisma, influence and confidence. You can love him or hate him and, as with many of these platform speakers, he is criticised but you cannot deny that he gets results. Who else is personally coached by Trump’s former right-hand man, George Ross, and even gets him to attend JT Foxx events. Who else gets Vanilla Ice to not only sign ‘Ice Ice Baby’ but allows pictures to be taken with every event attendee - no one else. Furthermore, he seems to care about the achievements and success of his family members (customers or clients to most, but family to him). His motto is powered by your success and it is so clear how important it is to him. I asked him what he had undertaken recently in South Africa. I will never question the integrity of JT Foxx again. As he said, multiple times, ‘If it’s meant to be it’s up to me’.

So, I now challenge all of you to think the same way, it’s up to each and every one of us to do what we want, and be who we want. For that dose of reality and the encouragement to let everyone know that they CAN do it, I thank you, Sir!

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Breguet and the art of Guilloche

BY JEFFREY S. KINGSTON

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eft brain. Right brain. Sensible and functional or artistic and

emotional? How often do objects or designs fall into one box or the other? Almost always. This is why absolutely nobody waxes poetic on the subject of minivans or plans flower arrangements for a Navy Seals training exercise.

But if there is to be an exception that proves the rule, guilloche decoration is the perfect example.

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HAUTE HORLOGERIE

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HAUTE HORLOGERIE

Guilloche is a technique used to embellish metal or wood with very precise, intricate and repetitive interlaced patterns engraved into the material.

If a watch dial is a tableau upon which the watchmaker paints, is there a more radiant, refined, elegant expression of watchmaking art than that of a guilloche design? Only a little historical research is required to reach the conclusion that more than two centuries ago when Abraham-Louis Breguet introduced guilloche design to the dials of his watches, aesthetics were certainly in the forefront of his thinking. He was also the first watchmaker to bring this art form to timepieces.

However, terminating the inquiry at this point is to perceive only a fraction of Breguet’s motivations in his adoption of the motif. Scholarly examination of his career plainly shows that Breguet never departed from his convictions that function should be present in every element of watch design. Left brain. Right brain. For Breguet, guilloche decoration was both beautiful and functional.

Decorative engraving as an art form dates back centuries to ancient Greece, long before Breguet’s lifetime. There is some uncertainty as to precisely when mechanical techniques were introduced. According to one school of thought, it was a French engineer, Guillot, who invented the engine turning and guilloche-engraving machine to cut and engrave detailed designs on metal or wood. An alternative account credits the invention of this method to a German, Hans Schwanhardt in the 17th century.

Regardless of the origin of the machines to produce the designs, it seems that Breguet first encountered guilloche engraving on a trip to London where this form of decoration had been widely adopted for the decoration of wooden furniture.

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Inspired by what he observed in London, Breguet returned to Paris and began experimenting with the technique for watch dials. What is clear, however, is that he perceived important functional benefits could be achieved with this fine form of engraving. First, by placing the fine guilloche pattern behind the hands, their visibility was greatly improved and, thus, the readability of the watch. At the time, the baroque style was prevalent in hand design. Baroque hands being large and ornate would, of course, be prominent when placed against any background. Guilloche opened up the way for a far more refined aesthetic hand design. With a fine contrasting texture beneath them, the now classic blued steel ‘pomme’ hands - or in what is now universally accepted watch parlance, ‘Breguet hands’ - became a possibility.

A second functional purpose emerged from Breguet’s early experiments. By varying the pattern of the fine engraving on the surface of the dial, Breguet found that he could delineate, highlight and define different zones on the dial within which individual complications and indications could be located. Thus, almost from the outset, pattern variety was a fixture in Breguet’s implementation of guilloche decoration as a single dial watch could incorporate multiple patterns for each of its different zones.

Two hundred years later, the same artistic and functional purposes that led Breguet to adopt guilloche decoration for his watches leaving the workshops at 39 quai de l’Horloge, Paris, are still greatly admired.

There have been, however, two respects in which the designs have evolved in the intervening two centuries. First, Breguet himself did not plate his guilloche dials. Fashioned out of either gold or silver Breguet used both - the dials would reflect the natural colour of the material.

Today, modern Breguet metal dials are either fashioned out of solid gold or from mother of pearl in some of the collections for women.

The gold dials are now given a subtle plating of silver, not done in Breguet’s time, to confer an even greater visual depth. Second, still engraved using the same type of rose engine tool, completely hand powered and controlled as it was in the past, new patterns have been added to the repertoire offering an ever richer visual diversity than ever before.

Think of the photos in this story as paintings in an art exhibition. Each turn of the page will take you to a new display room in the Breguet guilloche gallery.

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Thailand’s obscure celebration

BY MARION PFEIFFER

For most of us, when hearing of a festival referred to as a ‘Vegetarian Festival’, we think that it could be nice but perhaps a little uninteresting, especially when the festival referred to here, also known as ‘Observe the Ten Commandments and Abstain from Meat’, takes place in Phuket, Thailand.

Getting there requires hours of travel and some expense. However, this ‘Vegetarian Festival’ is different and there are many reasons to excite and mystify visitors to this event regarding the efforts made by people to show their devotion and honour the religious ceremonies. Nevertheless, if you intend attending this, one of the 300 most famous festivals in the world, be prepared to travel the length of your emotions, from mellow delight to simply being grossed out.

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Originating from China, this festival is practised nationwide in Thailand with the most famous and spectacular ceremonies taking place in the Phuket province. It was first observed in Phuket in a new mining town named Kathu by a Chinese opera company that suffered an epidemic affecting many of its members and, believed to be the reason that they had neglected their religious observances and were being punished. The result was a nineday period of purification rites and strangely, most of the troupe recovered. This caused great curiosity amongst local inhabitants and resulted in some doing the same thing the following year and finding it beneficial. Over the years, this event has endured and grown as the number of participants increased to make it a national and international phenomenon.

The number of people who partake in this ceremony is growing each year and the festival now attracts individuals from all over the world, especially those with a love of all things Asian and is recognised as a festival for the whole country with increasingly grand and intriguing events. The dates coincide with the period from the 1st to the 9th of the 9th Chinese lunar month corresponding to 11-19 October and it is expected to rain for the whole nine days. All vegetarians are required to dress in white and participants should abstain from eating meat and pungent vegetables such as garlic or onions.

This is where this festival becomes a little less mellow. Traditions and stories have been further developed and added on to local practice as part of the sacred rituals. These involve the devotees known as ‘Mah Song’ or ‘Spirit Horses’ working themselves into a trance and visitors can expect to see celebrants and mediums walking the streets with their faces and bodies pierced with any manner of sharp objects such as thin long pins or swords, walking

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on hot coals or climbing knife-blade ladders. For those fascinated by devotion, vegetarianism and religious frenzy, this may be your mecca, for others too gruesome. However, it is believed that devotees suffer no pain whilst in a state of trance. A man with 20 blades jutting through his body, blood flowing down his white shirt is a stark sight for even the least faint of heart. The belief is that the gods will protect those undergoing acts of self-mortification from harm.

Despite these gruesome scenes, a carnival-like atmosphere is created and remains throughout the festival. The ringing of prayer bells and chanting of priests never cease, processions from temples to the sea shore where participants carrying incense and candles will await the arrival of the excellencies, the nine emperors from the sea. On the ninth day the festival reaches its climax and the procession is believed to send the deities back home.

Visitors can partake of specially prepared vegetarian dishes available from street stalls and markets on the island for the celebration.

There are more than 40 shrines situated around the island. Many of them small, but all partake in the celebrations. Lantern poles are raised at all participating shrines, allowing the emperor gods to descend into the shrines at midnight, and removed on the ninth day. Many devotees stay at the temples, eating vegetarian meals and chanting prayers throughout the whole period. Crowds of spectators are witness to the events, attracted by the unusual and sometimes rather violent rituals performed.

Thailand’s ‘Vegetarian Festival’ is more than just vegetarian foods involving sprouts and tofu - it is a sensational and impressive assault on your feelings and perceptions, and for the most, spiritual and religious disciples on the body itself.

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Craig Port

BY CAREY TOWNSEND

Craig Port is a renowned, award-winning South African fashion designer with an innate sense of glamour and an ability to effortlessly translate current trends. He has won numerous accolades, been honoured for his philanthropy and earned the respect and affection of fans both locally and abroad.

Wholly dedicated to a vision of resort style that is as sophisticated as it is street, as iconic as it is modern, he has created an enduring empire with an impressive reach.>

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When he was not on a sports field, Craig - the son of a shirtmaker and Springbok sportsman in Durban - spent many Saturday mornings surrounded by beautiful fabric, impeccable tailoring and the highest quality of craftsmanship.

The experience left a huge impression on him and since then he has been excited and enthralled by clothing. Following his father’s wishes he went on to study law after school, while juggling an international modelling career. However, the fashion bug had bitten and a few years later he left to pursue his dream of becoming a designer.

Craig’s big fashion break came when POLO hired him to work on the design and unveiling of an international collaborative project. Soon after this he obtained the licence for the Kangol global brand and worked tirelessly to redesign and relaunch it to the market. Craig had long dreamt of forming an eponymous label but waited until he had gained enough industry experience and confidence to take the leap and create the ‘Craig Port’ brand. The ‘Craig Port’ brand was to be a complete expression of himself and although risky, he welcomed the challenge and produced his first collection in 2005.

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Craig lists his greatest achievement, apart from fatherhood, as the incredible freedom of expression that comes with designing one’s own brand. This autonomy has allowed him to explore multiple disciplines beyond clothing including accessories, underwear, swimwear, fragrances and furniture. Time spent abroad in some of the world’s most desirable and stylish locations and living in Cape Town has moulded his aesthetic style and given his work an elegant, yet carefree edge. From the beaches of Mykonos to Hôtel Particuliers in Paris, Craig’s love for travel continuously leaves him in awe and inspires his passion for design.

With a passion for fusing modern with retro, Craig often looks back to fashion trends from years yonder for inspiration. Paying close attention to timeless styles and shapes, he thoughtfully gives archival elements a modern context. This season he channels a happy, carefree, holiday spirit with a Spring-Summer 2015 swimwear collection set to become your essential vacation companion.

Influenced by 1970’s poolside utopia, retro athletics and bohemian hedonism, the styles take you from sunlounger to sundowner with a clink of a glass. >

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This laidback opulence extends to his beautiful home in Bakoven.

‘I’m fascinated by the way nature puts on such a spectacular show daily with such extreme beauty and variance. I never dreamed that I would live at the beach in my dream home,’ says Craig. He handed the interior design project over to lifetime friends, Paul and Boyd of Cecile and Boyd, who created a beautiful jewel box filled with liveable spaces that enhance the natural surroundings.

Inspired by his #PortSquad of celebrities, friends and models, Craig designed the collection with the male form in mind, a true ode to summer and the team you want to be a part of this season.

Briefs made from quick-dry performance fabrics, either square or box cut, are in navy, white or ‘Baywatch’ red. Careful attention to designer details, thoughtful branding and eye-catching trims give the collection a refined edge.

The wax cotton PORT short, available in either mid or shorter length, comes in an array of jewel-toned tribal prints that celebrate modern Africa. Tourmaline and tanzanite shades of colour give playful cuts a sophisticated feel that wouldn’t go amiss at Coachella or the beaches of Formentera.

Since the birth of his brand, influencers and style leaders have appreciated the laid back modernity of Craig’s collections.

Throughout the years, the label has become a firm fashion week favourite and an undeniable leader in the menswear space.

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Being the modern woman she was, Chanel recognised that her contemporaries needed to have their hands free while attending social functions, and so she designed a bag to meet their needs.

BY JAC HEJMANN

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THE ALLURE OF THE CHANEL BAG

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n the 1920s, Coco Chanel became tired of carrying her handbags in her arms and decided to design one that freed up her hands.

Inspired by the straps found on soldiers’ bags, she added thin straps and introduced the resulting design to the market in 1929.

Chanel grew up in an orphanage in a convent. She took her inspiration from how the caretakers of the convent attached keys with long chains to their belts – she was to use a similar type of chain for the shoulder strap chains for what became known as the 2.55 bag. These bags featured a double-chain shoulder strap attached by leather-threaded chains inserted through the eyelets.

The burgundy colour of the bag lining represents the colour of the convent’s uniforms. On the inside of the front flap is a zippered compartment, which is where Chanel is rumoured to have stored her love letters in her original handbag while the back side of the bags has an outside flap for the storage of money. Originally, every Chanel bag came with a front lock called ‘the Mademoiselle Lock’, referring to the fact that Coco Chanel was never married.

After her successful comeback to the fashion industry in 1954, Chanel decided to update her handbag. The resulting design was called 2.55 after the date of creation, February 1955. Since the 1980s, some of the designs have been styled with a lock in the shape of a CC logo. These are called ‘Classic Flaps’.

The Classic Flap has been popular for decades and the 2.55 Reissue, an exact copy released in 2005 to commemorate the style, helped revive the design. The name remains commonly used for all handbags resembling the original.The signature quilted diamond or herringbone pattern on the exterior gives the bag shape and volume and is believed to have been inspired by several sources: the riding coats of jockeys, the stained-glass windows of the abbey at Aubazine, as well as the cushions in Chanel’s Paris apartment.

Whatever your motivation is to buy a Chanel bag, there are a few that should top your list. Owning one can be compared to being accepted into one of the most exclusive sororities on campus.

Except, you know, this is real life. Legendary actresses, socialites

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and royals have carried these bags. Chanel bags have become the go-to accessory for any woman who wants to announce to the the world that she is an aficionado of fashion and style.

Clearly, Chanel was going to have to produce a smart, modernlooking next generation flap bag to continue to entice customers to purchase their Chanel bags. With the Boy Bag, Chanel achieved exactly this. The design feels deeply rooted in the history of the ‘handbag of the house’, but is still new and different enough to beguile customers who do not want bags that would have interested their mothers.

As the demand for Chanel flap bags continues to grow, so does the range produced by the company. Chanel is famous for black quilted leather, but this is not the extent of the bag designs. The company puts out several visually specific designs and heavily themed collections per year, ensuring that there is a flap bag to suit everyone from the ultimate French coquette to the fashion goddess. With the Spring-Summer 2016 ‘ready-to-wear’ collection models took to the runway

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carrying either the new trolley, the ‘Coco Case’, as described by Karl Lagerfeld, the ‘absolute’ bag with its pure line, or an XXL version of the 11.12 Chanel Flap Bag. Colours are as varied as possible, ranging from sky to midnight, white, red, grey, black and multicolour prints in tweed, denim, leather, lace, guipure, silk and ottoman.

With an aura that is near intoxicating, there is no doubt that Chanel is magical. This is sometimes difficult to grasp since Karl Lagerfeld frequently veers in a direction that borders on obscurity, but that is exactly it. Chanel is often fantastical and this is a sought-after attribute in elegant and extravagant fashion luxury.

Some people dream for years of owning a Chanel Bag, the Chanel Reissue 2.55 Flap Bag, or the recently added Chanel Boy Bag. Some already own multiples while others think that they are too traditional and played out. However, with the variety of finishes, colours and sizes available, Chanel’s famous flaps each have a little something that can be appreciated and no bespoke closet will be complete without at least one silk-lined shelf.

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AT EASE IN THE MIDDLE OF A VAST OCEAN

BY KOBUS WILMANS

This exclusive luxury wellness enclave in Praslin is a haven for tranquility and nurturing, providing members with complete care of the skin, body and soul.

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he moment you arrive at any Raffles property, you realise what has made this legendary brand so unique. The architectural design, the history of the location, the unparalleled service excellence, and the unique local and international cuisine all ensure that your experience at any of their properties will leave you enchanted. Raffles, Praslin is no exception, as the location alone will leave you breathless.

The Seychelles is by far one of the most unique destinations. To the discerning, luxury traveller it is synonymous with the world’s most beautiful islands and beaches, and is one of the world’s bestkept secrets as it ranks amongst the purest destinations anywhere.

So pure indeed, that the second largest island, Praslin, was once thought to be the Garden of Eden. Now, surrounded by the world’s most pristine beaches, and framed by primeval forests and brilliantly clear ocean waters. Raffles, Praslin is an extraordinary resort of 14

exceptional villas with superlative views of the Indian Ocean, truly a paradise reborn.

Raffles Spas around the world embrace the mythical assurance of renewal. Consistently praised as the best in the world, and have long welcomed weary travellers in search of fitness, serenity and rejuvenation. This exclusive luxury wellness enclave on Praslin is a haven for tranquillity and nurturing, providing members with complete care of the skin, body and soul. Raffles, Praslin offers state of the art facilities and skilled therapists from around the world, with treatments inspired by local traditions, healing plants and ancient ceremonies. This unique spa experience will be an enriching journey of wellness.

From the moment one steps of the helicopter charter and cross the polished floors of the reception area,one is welcomed by the

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staff whose aim It is to cater to your every need and preference.

Not only are you pampered in the elegance of the Spa, but your culinary expectations are catered for by a selection of fine dining experiences. With a team led by Executive Chef Chris Meredith, dining at Raffles, Praslin combines the best of Seychellois culture and cuisine, with dishes from around the world and each restaurant and bar offers its own unique atmosphere and setting. Chef Chris’ passion and experience at world-renowned luxury hotels and Michelin starred restaurants result in exquisite recipes and memorable culinary experiences.

Apart from the selection of superb restaurants, guests can also experience an unforgettable and romantic evening with a private dinner set under the stars on the sands of Anse Takamaka beach, in the privacy of your own villa or at a location of your choice, with dedicated service and your own personal chef. >

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With most of the other island destinations developed into mammoth residential estates to cater for the well-healed traveller, the time has arrived for a resort that is not only intimate, but a destination of superlatives. It is time to invest in a truly unique experience, and Raffles resorts have developed a destination that is not only far removed from thronging crowds, but one that offers ultimate privacy and is the epitome of a bespoke lifestyle. In keeping with the Raffles brand promise to bring their residents endlessly enchanting experiences, they have created a new suite of premium branded hospitality services to complement their legendary brand of hotels and resorts. Each is designed to enrich your lifestyle, by bringing the essence of Raffles beyond the doors of their hotels and into your home.

A private residence that is magnificent in every detail, with that special ambience drawn from the inimitable Raffles style. Often within the premises of a mixed-use resort or hotel, owners can also enjoy the finest facilities of the resort at the doorstep. Raffles, Praslin is for the privileged few who believe in living life extraordinarily and to its best.

As most of the Seychelles islands lie outside the cyclone belt, this destination is blessed with a year-long warm tropical climate. With temperatures rarely dropping below 24 Celsius, it is the perfect destination to visit and experience rare resorts such as Raffles, Praslin.

DESIGN ON APPEL 14 APPEL ROAD KRAMERVILLE TEL: 011 262 0401

SHOP 2 30 4TH AVENUE PARKHURST TEL: 011 268 0139

W W W. C L A S S I C B O N D D E C O R . C O . Z A

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Oh Clarens, you beauty!

If you’ve ever wondered why a dog sticks his head out of a car window, hop on a motorbike. You’ll soon find out, says Richard Webb If craft beer and motorcycles in a dusty town in the middle of nowhere don’t sound like your cup of Darjeeling, hang on a minute.

In 1916 - the same year that BMW was formed - the world’s first ever motorcycle festival took place in Laconia, New Hampshire in America.

The Laconia rally started when a few hundred motorcyclists gathered at the beach and bikers continue to return to this weeklong event.

It’s pleasing then, to see another healthy, vibrant, family-friendly motorcycle focused event with a thriving cultural scene emerge in South Africa. The inaugural BMW Motorrad Days took place in Clarens Valley in the Eastern Free State Highlands. Known as the ‘Jewel of the Free State’, Clarens is renowned for its spectacular sandstone mountains and wonderful climate and is one of the most picturesque spots in South Africa.

Clarens greeted me with clear skies and stunning scenery. The streets, shops, restaurants and town square echoed to the sounds of music, good-natured revelry and that distinctive sound of BMW twins (known as Boxers because of their engine configuration) and other two-wheeled exotica for three days.

Almost 2000 people from all corners of South Africa gathered for the festivities that kicked off with a diverse programme of events and activities for everyone, from the seasoned motorcyclist to the novice enthusiast, making it a hot attraction for the rider scene.

Among them were lucky lottery winners, who took home a BMW F 800 R and a BMW R nineT respectively, after their names were drawn in the BMW Motorcycle Lottery, open to all. >

BMW Motorrad

bmw-motorrad.co.za

The Ultimate Riding Machine

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I caught up with Alexander Baraka, General Manager of BMW Motorrad South Africa, over a glass or two of Sauvignon Blanc and asked him about the objective of the festival. ‘We want to create a festival to celebrate the BMW Motorrad brand and all its facets, as well as the motorcycle lifestyle,’ he shouted, trying to make himself heard over the music. ‘Okay, this is a BMW Motorrad event, but it’s open to all motorcycle enthusiasts no matter what brand they ride,’ said Baraka. A glance at the bikes parked up neatly around the perimeter of the event confirmed his assertion, with a healthy number of Hondas, KTMs and Harley Davidsons gleaming among the BMWs. Inside the event, there was a fair amount of action, from live motorcycle stunt shows to a variety of riding activities. But would the public be able to experience the bikes for themselves, I wondered?

‘People who want to experience our motorcycles can sign up for a day-trip test ride or check out any model from the BMW Motorrad retail store’, Baraka confirmed.

‘The South African edition of Motorrad Days is based on the internationally successful version held in Germany for the last 14 years – it attracts over 40,000 people annually,’ says Baraka, over the rocking sounds of local rock band Rooibaardt.

The BMW F 800 R is a great motorbike that ticks most boxes. Used around town or for commuting. Add luggage boxes and it’s a tourer. And as a weekend fun machine, it has the aggressive looks that disguises its ‘all-rounder’ abilities

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I also bumped into world-ranked street bike freestyle rider Mattie Griffin at the Goodwood Festival of Speed and again, here in Clarens.

The 36-year-old from Galway works harder than most to entertain his fans, training for 16 hours a week to perfect his routine and develop his signature tricks on his BMW F 800 R, which was on display for all to see in Clarens.

In between all the motorbike fun, craft beer gardens and gourmet food stalls there was some of the best live music from Mean Mr. Mustard, Ard Matthews (Just Jinjer), CrashCarBurn and DJ’s that kept the party going until the wee hours. Die Heuwels Fantasties also played Clarens, a somewhat smaller gig than their opening for Kings of Leon in 2012. Clarens turned out to be the perfect location for an event like this because it offers scenic mountain passes that made for extraordinary riding and a thriving social life that complemented BMW Motorrad Days South Africa’s spirit of freedom.

For me, it was a chance to get away from the maddening crowd and sit down to enjoy a menu that blended German and South African cuisine and to chat with fellow motorcycle celebrities and legends. It was that kind of event where it is perfectly normal for a ‘mixologist’ to hand you a bourbon cocktail as you make your way to a professional barber to attend to your moustache.

Just before I left the event, I caught up with Baraka again and asked him what he thought of the first BMW Motorrad Days South Africa event. ‘It exceeded our expectations, and the feedback we have received from participants, festivalgoers and the local community

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has been overwhelmingly positive. We are committed to growing this into South Africa’s biggest premium music and motorcycle festival.’

BMW Motorrad has a long tradition of pointing to new ideas around two-wheeled mobility, but this at first seemed to be an odd mix; an old Free State Town, a mixture of English and Afrikaans acts, craft beer and barbershops, BMWs and Harley-Davidsons converging on this charming, meandering sleepy place. But it works. After all, inspiration needs contrasts. Without those differences, without these contrasts, there wouldn’t be any inspiration.

Given the Motorrad Days’ success in Germany and other countries, I had a sense that I was watching history being made. It was quite incredible to see people riding together, celebrating together, and I’ll be able to say, ‘I was there at the beginning of something great.’

In many parts of the world, motorised two-wheel vehicles are the most important method of transport for individual mobility. In industrialised countries, on the other hand, the motorcycle has become more of a leisure and lifestyle vehicle since the 1970s.

The total market for motorised two-wheel vehicles is estimated at 114 million units worldwide. Although the smallest market in terms of volume, the segment above 500cc, which accounts for around 860,000 units, is highly attractive. BMW Motorrad is one of the market leaders in the premium segment above 500cc. In South Africa, BMW Motorrad accounts for an astonishing 36 per cent of the motorcycle market share.

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It’s an OMEGA

Christmas around the world ...

BY LIZ WEBBER

No matter where you go in the world, the holiday season is celebrated in all sorts of different ways. With a family of brand ambassadors in every corner of the globe, OMEGA has journeyed from Belfast to Bondi Beach, finding out what makes the festive period unique in each place. Of course, no matter where you go, the themes of family and giving always shine through. That’s why, in OMEGA boutiques, the magic of Christmas is beautifully captured with warmth and imagination. When the busy streets are packed with shoppers outside, the spirit of time is waiting through our doors. We know that whether the snow is falling, or the waves are lapping the shoreline, this is the moment when everyone comes together as one.

In England for Oscar-winning actor Eddie Redmayne, the traditional baked ham is an English classic and one that requires some particular skill. ‘I take it ridiculously seriously. It involves soaking, smothering it in mustard, sugar and cloves and then a long session in the oven. You can then gently pick at it for weeks. For me, it’s the most exciting moment of Christmas.’

Olympic champion Jessica-Ennis Hill loves the ritual of putting up the Christmas Tree, and despite London’s infamous weather, golfer Charley Hull thinks that the UK’s capital city is the place to be for Christmas. ‘Oxford Street gets packed with shoppers. It’s a bit crazy!

But because it gets dark from around 4pm, the traditional Christmas lights there are always spectacular. Then it’s all about being with family and friends in the pub, before the turkey, stuffing and roast potatoes on Christmas day.’

In the United States of America, Australian actress Nicole Kidman now spends much of her time at home in Nashville, where she says Christmas in the USA is very similar to the ones we see in the movies. ‘Nashville is all about music and food, so you won’t find a better place for carols and holiday parties. If it’s cold enough for a white Christmas, we’ll play in the snow with the kids and build a snowman. It’s a time of friendship, spirit and family,’ says Nicole.

Just like Nicole, there are many nationalities living in the USA, all with >

Nicole Kidman

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‘Eddie Redmayne: I take it (Christmas) ridiculously seriously. It involves soaking, smothering it in mustard, sugar and cloves and then a long session in the oven. You can then gently pick at it for weeks. For me, it’s the most exciting moment of Christmas.’

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their own special traditions. Swimmer and 12-time Olympic medalist, Natalie Coughlin has her own heritage to celebrate.

‘We mix the Christmas roast beef dinner with the traditional Filipino fare of pancit and lumpia. My grandma’s lumpia (fried pastries) is a family favourite and she has to ration it out throughout the evening so that no one overdoes it!’

Golfer Michelle Wie likes to explore the islands of Hawaii where the ‘weather is perfect’, while LPGA star Stacy Lewis returns home to spend time with her niece and nephew. For Olympic great Michael Phelps, Christmas day brings back memories of morning workouts and the bright lights that flood American neighbourhoods. ‘Growing up, I was even in the pool on Christmas morning! But we had a couple of streets around the area that were always decorated to the max so we would just drive around and look at all the different decorations, which was a lot of fun.’

In South Africa, Christmas takes on a whole different meaning.

As swimmer Chad Le Clos explains, the ‘clichés’ simply melt away. ‘In Durban it’s hot! So the day normally turns into a pool party. In terms of food, we mix a lot of the South African meat with traditional Mauritian food such as curries, and we make our own mayonnaise, so the meal turns into a bit of everything.

It’s nice to just spend as much time outdoors as possible.’

For American model Cindy Crawford, Christmas is a time to escape the northern cold and head to sunny Cabo in Mexico.

While Mexico celebrates with its colourful ‘Posada’ parties, Cindy always packs her own fun for the trip ‘I still try to bring some of the traditions I grew up with. We hang stockings from a plumeria tree, we leave cookies and milk for Santa and carrots for the reindeer. My mom always used to make a special coffee cake called Cindy Crawford, her husband Rande Gerber and their children Gaia and Presley attended the special screening of The Hospital In The Sky

Chad Le Clos

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Monkey Bread. I make that too, and just the smell of cinnamon makes it feel like Christmas even if you are in your bathing suit,’ says Cindy.

According to actress Zhang Ziyi, Christmas is not a traditional festival in China, although it’s gaining a lot in popularity, especially with the younger generation who can show love and appreciation for one another. Shanshan Feng, one of the world’s top female golfers, describes Christmas as the best time of her whole year.

‘Christmas Eve is called “Ping An” (meaning peace and happiness) and the pronunciation sounds a lot like ‘Apple’ in Chinese. So, young people will send an apple to a friend on Christmas Eve as a gift. I also usually throw a BBQ for family and friends, adding games and karaoke.’

Actor and film producer Simon Yam celebrates Christmas with his actress wife QiQi. Because of Hong Kong’s heritage and western influence, there are many of the same traditions and celebrations as Britain. ‘Around Christmas time, many buildings facing the Victoria Harbour will be decked out in Christmas lights. You’ll also find many major malls and other public buildings beautifully decorated as well. Also, every year in Hong Kong there is a ‘Winterfest’. It’s a huge winter party that involves the shops, theme parks and other attractions in Hong Kong.’

Greg Norman

QiQi also has a lot of family in Austria, which is a very different Christmas to the one she knows in Hong Kong. ‘People in Vienna will start preparations on Christmas Eve and the festivities don’t really stop till New Years Eve. And for Austrian tradition, every year Vienna will have a ‘Christkindlmarkt’ (Christmas market), which is held in the large square in front of City Hall from late November. They sell Christmas decorations, food (like gingerbread) and Glühwein.’

In India actor Abhishek Bachchan delights in the colours, sights and memories of Christmas. ‘Christmas is a wonderful time in Mumbai.

It’s always great to see the Christmas lights hanging from people’s balconies and front porches. Every year a Christmas tree is put up inside the house and decorations are always looked forward to.

Christmas brings back many childhood memories.... like the sleepless Christmas Eve nights…eager to wake up and open your presents.’

Golfer Rory McIlroy insists on a visit to Belfast’s Christmas Market, in Northern Ireland, where an Irish welcome is combined with international flavours and sights. With the famous City Hall lit up in the background, Belfast is clearly where it’s at for Australian alligator and Belgian chocolates all in one place. ‘It has become a bit of a tradition to go with a group of friends. We all get wrapped up in our Christmas sweaters – with flashing reindeer noses – and have a great day out trying different dishes and really getting into the festive season.’

In Australia, legendary golfer Greg Norman explains that Christmas down under is all about building tradition into some typical Australian past times, including beach barbeques and a roast turkey on the day. Of course, we decorate the house and put out milk and cookies for Santa. I once tried to replicate the Northern Hemisphere Christmas by turning down the air-conditioner as low

Sergio Garcia

as it would go. But then comes Boxing Day, traditionally the start of the first cricket test match at the MCG, and also the start of the Sydney to Hobart yacht race. It shouldn’t be missed!’

A Spanish Christmas is very much about family, lights and music. But as golfer Sergio Garcia explains, it’s what happens after that makes the festive period unique. ‘We have a pretty crazy Spanish tradition on December 31. We eat a grape for each of the 12 bell strikes to welcome the New Year. The Christmas holidays also last a bit longer in Spain because kids get their presents from the Three Kings on January the 6th instead of Santa Claus on Christmas day.’

In OMEGA’s own home country, Switzerland, singer Bastian Baker believes there’s only one place to be for the most magical Swiss Christmas. ‘A lot of families head to their chalets in the mountains.

There are huge dinners and traditional foods like raclette or fondue.

Of course, with all the snow, it’s also the perfect time to get together and go skiing.’

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CONTEMPORARY BAYSIDE ELEGANCE

BY KOBUS WILMANS

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This architectural composition of elegant spaces and ample proportions is the perfect setting from which to admire the surrounding gems such as the Twelve Apostles and the pristine beaches of Camps Bay and Clifton.

The brief from the owner to the Cape Town based architecture design practice, SAOTA for this Clifton property was to design a flexible contemporary family residence. The site was spectacular, requiring a design that could respond to the challenging sloped corner site and its aspects.

The ground floor is partially set into the steep site thereby maximising the living level and raising it above the noisy provincial road. The first and second floors are set back, fragmented and rotated to create a central but sheltered external terrace. A glass bridge links the fragmented structures at the upper levels and allows the sunlight from the north to shine between the bedroom wings and into the central areas on the south side of the house.

The design elevates the main living areas and uses doubleglazing for the windows to create privacy from the road and reduce noise while carefully considering the landscaping around

the ground floor. Generous overhangs, external sliding shutters and perforated steel and aluminium eaves naturally shade the facades. All doors and windows have performance glazing and are mostly of full height, which, together with the meticulous arrangement of internal spaces, ensures that the magnificent views are optimised for all rooms.

On arrival, the delicate cantilevering concrete stairs ascend alongside an immense off-shutter concrete wall that tapers dramatically towards its base and into the triple volume entrance foyer. Here, visitors are welcomed by a sculpture set into a water-feature and by the use of full height glazing left in awe with glimpses of the mountain beyond. Monolithic stairs are suspended above and filter shafts of refracted morning light creating a sense of calm. The study, gym, massage room and luxurious guest bedrooms are all situated on the ground floor behind vegetation, and screens and double-glazing attentively layered to provide privacy and peace. >

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The entertainment room with a faceted weathered copper bar, natural stone tops and the custom laser-cut aluminium screen behind present a rich, detailed contemporary living space. The family room, kitchen, dining room and lounge flow seamlessly to the centrally positioned external terrace that, though elevated, is sheltered by the carefully rotated bedroom wings above while improving the views from these areas. A blue mosaic rim flow pool runs the length of the terrace and brings sea and sky into the living spaces.

On the second floor, the family bedrooms are strategically positioned to make the most of the expansive views. Each has its dressing room, en-suite bathroom and private balcony. The main en-suite bedroom benefits from the luxurious tranquillity of all white finishes, complete with an outside shower and views onto the National Park. The master suite is set forward as if propelled towards the view of the coast while clerestory glazing perfectly captures a different view of the cable station and Table Mountain. The off-shutter concrete wall contrasts effectively with the slick stained oak panelling and natural timber floors and a customised fireplace with a weathered Corten conical flue and polished concrete plinth completes the luxurious live-in haven.

SAOTA Project Leader, Tamaryn Fourie describes the project; ‘The aesthetic of the house – when viewed externally – is of thin steel edges to perforated eyebrows hovering above bands of full height glazing offset against the massive and expressive concrete structure.

Inside, off-shutter concrete walls retain their timber-shuttered texture, and, with natural stone floors having been sandblasted to provide warmth and texture against the more highly finished wall and ceiling finishes’.

Picture this.

It’s been said that a picture is worth a thousand words, and this one is no exception.

You’re looking at the world’s finest bed, it’s a Hästens. For five generations Hästens have been perfecting their all natural beds with your well-being in mind, hand crafting beds to provide you with unparalleled comfort for rejuvenated vitality.

Visit a sleep store near you and discover the magic of a true Hästens sleep.

HÄSTENS SLEEP STORES CAPE TOWN - Green Point, Cape Town Tel: 021 418 0434 JOHANNESBURG - Kramerville, Sandton Tel: 011 262 4431/2 sms ‘Sleep’ and your email address to 31022 to receive your complimentary catalogue

hastens.com

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a place of raw, undefined beauty ...

BY MARION PFEIFFER

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Legend states that once the Kalahari sand is felt beneath your feet and gets into your shoes, you will return again and again.

Many intrepid visitors, both South African and international, travel many kilometres year after year, planning with excitement and enthusiasm their route through the park. Extensive preparations include the decision whether to be totally independent – this means carrying camping gear, food and drinking water, tools and repair kits amongst other necessities – or simply moving between those camps that offer basic accommodation. These wilderness camps are an experience, either fenced or unfenced, luxurious or basic.

They are something else – particularly for any first-timers to the world of wildlife in Africa.

Whether one enters the Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park either through South Africa (SA) or through Botswana, one may traverse the full park across both countries without any border control or passports as long as one leaves via the original country of entry again. The Twee Rivieren gate has both SA and Botswana border authorities in the same building, so here one can get all the necessary stamps under one roof, to travel through, either on the in or on the way out. The best map is considered to be the Tracks for Africa map of Botswana.

Previously, the Kalahari Gemsbok Park in SA and the Gemsbok National Park in Botswana were unofficially united but it was only in 2000 that the Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park was declared and formalised as an ecological entity. Three-quarters of the park is in Botswana, with the remainder in South Africa. This gigantic area, consisting of about 37 000 square kilometres (3.6 million hectares), is a semi-desert wilderness of grasses, red dunes and shrubs. It is a peaceful space noted as one of the 10 best places to view wildlife in Africa. The opening of the border crossing at Mata Mata has made access into the western part of Namibia easier. The ecological supervision of the park as one unit has encouraged interest in creating links to many of the other large parks, such as the Ai-Ais/ Richtersveld Transfrontier Conservation Area and the Augrabies National Park.

For visitors this is one of the greatest wilderness ‘fixes’ and remains captivating because it is unique and immense, for example, it is nearly twice as big as the Kruger Park. The land is desolate, with dunes coloured in reds and gold, extending into the distance, sparsely

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dotted with shrubbery. The wispy grasses and thorny trees provide the only shelter for animals living in these areas. Life here is harsh and survival is an art that has led to intriguing adaptations in its ‘residents’.

Devastating droughts are relieved for short periods by the rains that transform it briefly into a green wonderland before the sun shines again, returning it to its usual arid conditions. There are two main rivers: the Nossob River that typically flows about once per century and the Auob River that flows approximately once every ten years.

These two rivers are on the SA side and it is along these two dry river beds that the game and predators gather. The river beds are typically flanked by red sand dunes and the roads are naturally routed along these river beds.

When these rivers do flow, wildlife celebrates by gathering en masse at the river beds to slake their thirst. Numerous boreholes exist, initially drilled by the South African armed forces before the Second World War in case Germany invaded Namibia. These boreholes are the only permanent sources of water and provide perfect opportunities for tourists to see animals such as giraffe and wildebeest that require water daily and have ceased to be migratory, rather choosing to remain close to the water. Also, because the dry river beds provide the most nutritious grasses due to underground water, this attracts many large herds, for example, springbok and gemsbok. The predators remain close to this gathering of potential prey and it can be relatively easy for travellers to spot these great creatures.

The herds of gemsbok, springbok, eland and blue wildebeest migrate across the area, depending on the season. Majestic camel thorn trees provide shade for the huge black maned lions, as well as vantage points for leopard, Namibian cheetahs and a variety of raptors. >

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Outstanding photographic opportunities are provided in the sparse landscape for antelope and predator species. It is also a haven of delight for bird watchers, being home to more than 200 species, especially birds of prey, that is raptor species. For bird lovers the Kgalagadi offers a feast in a variety of resident and migratory species, particularly raptors. The list includes Tawny and Black-breasted Snake Eagles, Pale Chanting Goshawks, Pygmy Falcons, Greater Kestrels and Bateleur, White-backed and Lappet-faced Vultures.

Travelling through the Kgalagadi is not for the ill-prepared or faint hearted although the traditional South African route, travelling along the two river beds on the graded gravel roads, is pretty tame. Visitors must be self-sufficient and their four wheel drive vehicles properly fitted for rough roads and the surprises these may have in store.

Knowledge of how to extricate a vehicle that has sunk deeply into the sand and how to reach the top of a seemingly vertical dune using 4 x 4 skills are essential for guided and self-guided tours. When your car has sunk into that dry river bed neatly up to its chassis in mud or suffers from more than one puncture at the same time, you must know what to do. The speed limit in most areas is 20 km/h and some of the tracks follow routes that seem impossible. The Botswana side, on the other hand, is definitely 4 x 4 territory, where areas of deep sand may be encountered.

Accommodation is varied and park management offers detailed information as to what is available at each camp. Fenced camps such as Twee Rivieren, Nossob and Mata Mata offer self-catering chalets and camping while the more exclusive wilderness camps, some only attainable with 4 x 4 vehicles are unfenced and wildlife is free to

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wander through camp. For those wishing to enjoy an unfenced bush camping experience, all necessary supplies must be carried, as only shelter and wash water is available. Your destination for the night may simply be a flattened sand area surrounded by the ever present camel thorn trees. These camps are situated in areas where predators are often seen, so you have more chance of spending time with them than with other human guests. Furthermore, in the morning it is not unusual to wake and find the spoor of predators and other wildlife neatly dotted around and between your tents.

On the Botswana side things are even rougher. Here the park offers unfenced camping sites of which the most popular is the Mabuasehube to the east. Here one finds limited spectacular campsites on the fringes of the various salt pans, where the game naturally gathers. These campsites are remotely spaced and offer one a great sense of wilderness and privacy. At the top end are the fully catered luxury options where you can find your own piece of paradise. Recently, new luxury lodges have been established for those who prefer their comforts over the raw experience.

The park has a diversity of game to captivate the most critical visitor and perhaps the fact that it does not teem with game is why it appeals to so many and that one is definitely ‘away from it all’ – ambience and nature at its best surrounds you. Many have found it hard to write about the Kgalagadi without the overuse of superlatives but the reason is obvious – anyone who spends time in this place and is not affected by its wildly dramatic quality must be made of stone. One is enticed to return again and again. Many do so year after year and are never disappointed.

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INFLUENTIAL FURNITURE DESIGNERS OF ALL TIME

BY JAC HEJMANN

During the time that Charles and Ray Eames worked together in designing furniture, they envisioned developing furniture that could be mass-produced and would be affordable, although the exception was the Eames Lounge Chair. For this chair, Charles’ vision was to create a chair with a ‘warm and receptive look of a well-used first baseman’s mitt’, composed of three, curved plywood shells, the headrest, backrest and the seat.

When the first Eames Lounge Chair was first produced, Ray remarked to Charles that it looked ‘comfortable and un-designy’.

Since then it has become an icon of modern style design.

From 1956 through to the early 1990s, the shells were constructed of five thin layers of plywood, covered with a veneer of Brazilian rosewood. Manufacturers stopped using Brazilian rosewood in the 1990s and today the Eames chair is constructed of seven layers of plywood covered in finishes such as Palisander rosewood, walnut and cherry, as well as various others.

It’s easy to imagine Charles Eames laughing upon remarking that ‘It makes me feel guilty that anybody should have such a good time doing what they are supposed to do’. This was a precise summary of how he and his wife, and collaborator, viewed work, as their accomplishments seem like the by-product of a state where work is play and vice versa.

Another highly influential designer was Charles-Edouard Jeanneret-Gris, who was born in Switzerland on October 6, 1887. A young Charles-Edouard was greatly influenced by his family’s Calvinism and love of the arts and his enthusiasm for the Jura Mountains - where his family fled during the Albigensian Wars of the 12th century - influenced this designer.

He would often travel away from the provincial atmosphere of his hometown in Europe and the Mediterranean, notably Italy, Vienna, Munich and Paris, and his travels often included apprenticeships with various architects. Most significant of all

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‘I prefer drawing to talking. Drawing is faster, and leaves less room for lies.’

- Le Corbusier

was the structural rationalist Auguste Perret, who was a pioneer of reinforced concrete construction and subsequently, with prominent architect Peter Behrens, with whom he worked from October 1910 to March 1911 near Berlin.

After moving to Paris in 1917, Jeanneret-Gris assumed the pseudonym Le Corbusier reflecting his belief that anyone could reinvent himself or herself. His preferred material in his architecture was steel and reinforced concrete and he worked with elemental geometric forms and his painting further emphasized the clear forms and structures of his architecture.

Le Corbusier is known for his round glasses, affinity for concrete and an undying love for modernism, but few people know Le Corbusier. Not only did he lead his life as the 20th century’s most influential architect, criticised and celebrated, but also as an artist, socialite and theoretician, who often dabbled with controversy.

Le Corbusier favoured the mantra ‘Architecture or Revolution’ and designed structures that have been dubbed ‘anti-humanist’.

Enthusiasts have proposed that his buildings collectively become a UNESCO World Heritage site and today Le Corbusier is best known for the Chaise Longue and the Grande Confort sofa. >

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One of those rare figures from history, who instantly and without reservation commands awe for her genius was Charlotte Perriand, an architect and designer. Born in Paris, France in 1903, she attended the École de l’Union centrale des Arts décoratifs, now Les Arts Décoratifs, where she studied with well-known designers such as Maurice Dufrène. She was active in the industry from the 1920s to 1960s.

Corbusier and Pierre Jeanneret. The revolutionary tubular steel finishings and system furniture they produced were presented at the ‘Salon d’Automne’ in 1929. In 1937, they designed a mountain chalet of sheet aluminium, which was exhibited at the ‘Exposition Internationale des Arts et Techniques dans la Vie Moderne’. Later they created plans for prefab houses made of aluminium.

In 1927, she exhibited her range of furniture of anodized aluminium and chromium-plated steel at the ‘Salon d’Automne’ in Paris. By age 23, Perriand had already designed the ‘chaise longue’ that was to make her famous. After meeting Le Corbusier, she approached him for a position with his studio. Initially, she was denied a position with this notoriously demanding architect, but she persistently continued asking while developing her work, until eventually she was hired in 1927.

Later in life she became a design consultant to the Japanese Board of Trade and lived in Japan until 1946. Evidence of the influence of this period in her life is reflected as from that time her designs revealed overtones of the Japanese feeling for form. This was evident in her 1953 chair ‘Synthèse des arts’.

She began by co-designing three chairs in partnership with Le

Perriand would become one of France’s most prolific furniture designers of the 20th century with her work becoming some of the most collected pieces in history.

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‘That business of relaxation, which is so terribly modern today, is all good and well, but my work interests me so much and is so varied, that many times it seems relaxing when I go from one aspect to another.’

- Arne Jacobsen

The concept of Danish Design is challenging to explain, yet immediately apparent to the viewer and sometimes described as Danish Functionalism. The German Bauhaus School influenced this style of functional design, as well as the architecture that developed in the mid 20th Century. Denmark, with its tradition of high-quality craftsmanship, was late to industrialize and it was ready for an explosion of design creativity with cultural support for the exploration of new designs and ideas. Art cooperatives were a feature of the period, with many of the best-known names in Danish design studying with the same teachers, or working together.

Arne Jacobsen was one of the architects and designers who achieved fame in Danish design and architecture in the past century and he would be active for more than half of it. Jacobsen made a huge impact on the mid-century furniture movement with his functional minimalist designs. The Swan and Egg chairs, in particular, are among the most recognizable pieces from this period.

Although most of his furniture designs resulted from his collaboration

with Fritz Hansen that dated back to 1934, his real break-through came in 1952 with the creation of the Ant™ chair, which was succeeded by the Series 7™. These compact and stackable chairs matched modern needs and propelled his and Fritz Hansen’s names into furniture history.

Jacobsen was very productive both as an architect and a designer and in 1956 he designed the SAS Royal Hotel in Copenhagen for which he produced the Egg™, the Swan™, the Swan™ sofa and Series 3300™.

From the architecture that we admire to the objects we use and enjoy every day as when he was not working, he worked nevertheless albeit with something else. To Jacobsen, a shift to another project in the creative realm was his way of relaxing. This enabled an enormous output with no compromises on quality.

Arne Jacobsen still remains known as a well respected and an outstanding designer and architect whose traces of genius on the design landscape endure and many remember him for his contribution to Architectural Functionalism.

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The magnificent Leopard 43 Powercat

BY STEVE SWANEPOEL

Leopard Catamarans now has a long list of very successful and popular power catamarans, which include the much anticipated and exceptional Leopard 43 Powercat launched in Cape Town in August 2015. Built by Robertson & Caine and exterior design

by Simonis Voogd Design, the soon-to-be newest member of the power fleet replaces the Leopard 39 Powercat. The Leopard 43 PC is a completely redesigned mid-sized catamaran built with the quality foundation that has come to be expected of Leopard Catamarans. There were no details left unattended in the creation of this new power yacht, including the hull design, speed, standard specifications, updated interior and much more.

‘I think this model is what customers have been waiting for.

It’s a great value for the quality, performance, and durability of a Leopard’, says Daniel Snyman, Regional Sales Manager for Africa, Mauritius & Seychelles. ‘She offers great fuel range at cruising speed, a lot of outdoor space including an enormous flybridge, which can be fully enclosed. She is economical, easy to handle, and spacious with 27 per cent more interior volume than her predecessor’.

The stepped hull design of this ‘powercat’ adds interior volume above the waterline, allowing for roomier accommodation in the

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hulls without sacrificing the performance of the yacht. With narrower hulls and less wetted surface below the waterline, the Leopard 43 PC reaches an impressive maximum speed of 23+ knots (27 MPH) and maintains exceptional fuel efficiency consistent with all Leopard power catamaran models.

Outdoor living space is maximized on the Leopard 43 PC. An extension of the Leopard 51 PC flybridge design, the Leopard 43 PC flybridge also includes a grill, wet bar and direct access to the sunbathing platform found forward. There is a large aft cockpit and access door from the main saloon to the forward

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platform of the boat. The access door increases ventilation for the interior of the vessel and makes manoeuvring around the catamaran easier.

Franck Bauguil, Vice President of Yacht Sales, explains: ‘The all-new Leopard 43 PC is a massive leap forward from the 39 PC. Now, into our fourth generation of power catamarans in collaboration with Robertson & Caine, we have continuously improved our power products with fast and economical catamarans, offering ample accommodations, large flybridges, access forward from inside the main saloon and superior rides >

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in all conditions. The 43 PC is the logical extension of the very successful 51 PC for private owners and charterers alike, as Leopard power catamarans are now a leader of the US market in this segment.’

One of the most exciting and innovative interiors yet on a Leopard catamaran, the Leopard 43 PC will include the same layout as the new Leopard 40. In this new layout, the galley is located forward and the forward-facing settee and table are now located aft. This allows for a panoramic view with large sliding glass doors between the saloon and the aft cockpit. This arrangement promotes easy communication for guests, an open flow between the saloon and the aft cockpit, and a fusion of indoor and outdoor living space. In addition, the galley area includes a large forward-facing window and an access door to the forward platform of the boat. The access door enhances the open concept feel and easy navigation in and around

the yacht while also promoting ventilation throughout the interior.

The Leopard 43 PC also includes the new interior design, featuring grey king tree flooring and cabinetry creating a fresh, modern look.

She also boasts a large and open saloon, a galley with the latest appliances, three cabins and two heads, with the entire starboard hull being dedicated to the owner’s suite (optional four cabins and two heads).

In addition to private ownership through Leopard Catamarans, this yacht is also available through The Moorings Yacht Ownership Program as a Moorings 434 PC and Moorings 433 PC. Through this program, The Moorings pays the owner’s monthly boat payment, all operating expenses and allows access to The Moorings worldwide destinations utilising 6 to 12 weeks of owner use per year. >

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Robertson & Caine designs and builds the Leopard line of blue water cruising catamarans. As the worldwide dealer, TUI Marine is proud to say that over 1,500 Leopard cats have now sailed more than 9 million miles and the world’s largest oceans.

For more information about Leopard Catamarans, contact Daniel Snyman +27 21 200 1825 or email: daniel.snyman@tuimarine.com

DIMENSIONS L.O.A. L.W.L. Beam Draft

13 m 12.44 m 6.72 m 0.94 m

ENGINE Engine Fuel

2 x 260 hp 1000 L

EXTRA DETAILS Water Displacement

780 L 10,534 kg

A world of luxury and performance that you can call home.

Your Leopard catamaran.

40 | 43PC | 44 | 48 | 51PC | 58

+27 21 200 1825 www.leopardcatamarans.com southafrica@leopardcatamarans.com

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Strauss & Co The middle market stands its ground…

BY ANN PALMER & VANESSA PHILLIPS

The name Strauss & Co is synonymous with fine art, but there is another equally important facet to their business in the form of the decorative arts. This term encompasses a wide and diverse field which includes furniture, silver, ceramics and jewellery and the Cape Town salerooms have featured some spectacular pieces since the company’s inception seven years ago.

In the most recent sale, far and away the most impressive result was for an 18th century Régence ormolu-mounted rosewood commode which made headline news when it sold for over R2 500 000. The fact that this important chest of drawers was formerly part of the collection of Vergelegen added to its appeal.

Strauss & Co specialises particularly in Cape furniture and holds the record for the most expensive piece ever to be offered at auction.

This was an 18th century coromandel buffet, resplendent with silver mounts by the well-known Cape silversmith, Johannes Casparus Lotter, which also had an illustrious provenance having belonged to Baron Joachim von Plettenberg, Governor of the Cape from 1771 to 1785, and which sold for over R1 million in 2009.

The company has been entrusted with the sale of several single owner Cape collections, namely those of Dr Bothma Buitendag, Dr Johan Bolt and, more recently, Robin von Holdt, whose rare west coast cedarwood and stinkwood cupboard sold for R300 000. Cape silver is also highly sought after and has increased dramatically in value over the last 25 years. To illustrate this, a Cape silver sugar bowl which Stephan Welz, Managing Director of Strauss & Co, auctioned in 1989 for R8 000 re-appeared on the market and was sold again by him in October this year for R250 000.

Sold for over R2 500 000

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George III wine coolers sold for R1,5 million

It is not only Cape silver which has performed well. In 2009 the company sold a magnificent pair of George III wine coolers by the renowned English silversmith, Paul Storr, for R1,5 million. Canny collectors of silver are not only able to buy at the live auctions, but also follow the Online only auctions where interesting pieces often crop up. The rising popularity of these Online only auctions is confirmed by their successful sell-through rate of over 90 per cent.

Provenance and craftsmanship both play a significant role in securing high returns for jewellery. There is an insatiable appetite for any piece with historic or romantic connotations, as was proven by the sale of a Victorian diamond brooch which belonged to Colonel Sir David Harris KCMG, VD, (1852-1942), pioneer of the South African diamond industry, director of De Beers for forty years, distinguished financier, soldier and politician. This brooch, which sold for R450 000, was a gift to his wife, Rosa Gabriel of Pomerania (Prussia) whom he married in 1873.

From the Art Deco period a sensational diamond and emerald brooch by Van Cleef & Arpels, in its original case, realised the princely sum of R350 000. >

Sold for over R1 million in 2009

Cape silver sugar bowl sold for R250 000

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Chinese hunghuali bench sold for R350 000

Colourful Italian glass from the mid 20th century has performed well at auction and it is easy to see why. The dazzling colours and imaginative designs complement South African homes and appeal to connoisseurs with cosmopolitan tastes. Three examples which were sold in Cape Town this October demonstrated the growing interest in this field.

In line with the universal trend, Chinese furniture and porcelain have attracted much attention in the salerooms. In 2011 an 18th century Chinese hunghuali bench sold for R350 000. This rare timber is sought after by Chinese buyers and used for auspicious pieces. From the Qing Dynasty, Strauss & Co sold a near pair of Chinese copper-red- glazed bowls for an impressive R250 000.

An ‘Intarsio’ glass vase, Ercole Barovier for Barovier & Toso, sold for R90 000

With only two sales a year, the decorative arts have contributed significantly to the annual turnover of Strauss & Co. With a yield of R100 000 000 since opening in 2009, the decorative arts have consistently held the middle ground of the art market and continue to go from strength to strength.

An ‘Inciso’ glass vase, Paolo Venini for Venini, sold R130 000.

An ‘Olaf Oriente’ glass vase, Dino Martens for Aureliano Toso, sold R100 000

Alexis Preller, The Creation of Adam I SOLD R8 526 000 THE HIGHEST AUCTION PRICE ACHIEVED FOR THE ARTIST IN SOUTH AFRICA

ART VALUATIONS Now inviting consignments of South African and International Art Forthcoming auctions in Cape Town, Monday 14 March and Johannesburg, Monday 23 May, 2016 Entries close 10 weeks prior to the sale 021 683 6560 | 011 728 8246 | ct@straussart.co.za | jhb@straussart.co.za | www.straussart.co.za The leading auction house for South African art

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The Majesty 135 Redefines Luxury ...

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The 11 million USD super yacht, the Majesty 135, displayed at the Monaco Yacht Show during September, is the most luxurious craft produced to date by Gulf Craft, the UAE-based yacht builder.

The presentation of the Majesty 135 at this premier yachting event is just one example of this yacht and boat builders’ persistent determination to meet and exceed the ever-evolving expectations of its discerning customers.

‘We believe that making it in this fiercely competitive market ultimately depends on how well you understand your customers, and so as our client needs and requirements evolve, so do we,’ said Erwin Bamps, Gulf Craft CEO. ‘Our presence at global yachting events is not only about showcasing our capabilities, but also connecting with existing and prospective customers to complement our next creations. We do not rest on our laurels at Gulf Craft – it’s always about moving forward and developing the next plan to intrigue and impress our passionate customers.’

Today’s buyers are looking for exclusivity, world-class quality, and premium value and the new Majesty 135 is the embodiment of all three characterised by its ability to maximise both space and natural light from the inside and out. With a range of 2 000 nautical miles and powered by twin MTU 2,400 hp, the luxurious super yacht offers a spacious and bespoke interior, from the vanity counters and table tops made of onyx marble to the lustrous silver leaf ceilings in the main saloon and the owner’s cabin.

The exterior is sleek and confident, crisply painted in white and stunning with its elegant presence. A marvellous combination of brightness, freshness and luxury, the 135 combines lavish spaces with superb finishes. Emanating innovation and indisputable luxury, the 41-metre vessel with its five bedrooms, room for five crew and a dining room complete with chandeliers is a fine example of what buyers of such luxury yachts demand. The main aft cockpit is generous in size and combines classic touches with all sorts of modern amenities – wicker chairs, large sofa aft, al fresco, dining area and reception bar.

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On entry, the stainless steel framed glass doors of the main saloon open to an incredibly spacious yet superbly elegant main saloon that is quite astonishing. It is adorned with exquisite essences like white onyx, Crema Marfil, Corinthian beige marble and Anigre wood. The open plan main saloon includes a main dining space and lounge area featuring cozy amenities and delicate materials.

The owner’s stateroom, on the upper-deck, is discreetly positioned away from the other guest staterooms. The suite is fully fitted, includes a private en suite bathroom, Jacuzzi and large windows offering stunning views of the sea. The other four guest staterooms are astutely distributed throughout the super yacht and include a VIP en suite stateroom. There is a formal indoor dining room for 12 guests, an extensive covered exterior dining area and a luxurious flybridge equipped with a Jacuzzi, teppanyaki grill, piano lounge, and a fully equipped bar, offer endless possibilities for entertainment.

The novelty features on board are abundant including state-of-theart technology and environmentally friendly equipment, as well as

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advanced entertainment systems and ample lounging areas. A 65” smart, full HD LED television in the main saloon, weather-proof ceiling speakers on the sun and upper decks, staterooms equipped with iPad control and Wi-Fi access throughout the craft are just a few examples of the sophisticated technology on board.

‘Constructed in Gulf Craft’s state-of-the-art UAE shipyard using the finest materials and fabrics, each and every super yacht in the Majesty Yachts brand offers owners a truly royal cruising experience, demonstrating the Middle East’s presence as a global player in the leisure marine sector,’ said the luxury yacht builder.

Founded in 1982, Gulf Craft is an award-winning manufacturer of luxury yachts and fiberglass boats and one of the world’s top 10 super yacht builders. Gulf Craft has built a sound reputation as a manufacturer of world-class craft, ranging between 27 feet and 155 feet in length.

Using state-of-the-art technology and innovation design, Gulf Craft caters to the diverse requirements of its clientele through its continuously expanding fleet of fishing and family boats, sports yachts and cruisers and semi-customised luxury super yachts.

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With an annual production capacity of around 300 craft and expertise built over three decades, Gulf Craft has a presence in all boating markets globally through its Majesty Yachts, Nomad Yachts, Oryx and Silvercraft brands. In addition, the company provides worldwide maintenance and refit services, as well as guidance on all aspects of boat ownership.

Length Overall 41.05 m Length Waterline 33.66 m Maximum Beam 8.14 m Depth 3.57 m Fuel Capacity 37,800 l Water Capacity 7,570 l Black Tank Capacity 1,250 l Gray Tank Capacity 1,250 l Displacement 230 tons approx Construction FRP Generators 2 x 80kW - Engines 2 x 4 000 HP

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Le Kap gets ‘one on one’ access to Daimler’s head of design, Gorden Wagener. Our automotive lifestyle editor, Richard Webb, journeys to Stuttgart to take up the story.

If there were certain cars that you associate with fame and wealth, what would they be? Probably a Bentley Continental GT, or maybe Rolls-Royce Ghost II, or what about something more aggressive, like a Lamborghini Huracán or a Mercedes SL? The SL has been driven by Diana, Princess of Wales, a host of racing drivers, ‘A-listers’, pop singers and rock guitarists, but shortly, the SL will be joined by an even more sporty and luxurious Mercedes convertible – S-Class Cabriolet.

To mark this new addition to their line-up, I travelled to Stuttgart – a city circled by rolling hills peppered with trees, houses and vines – and the home of Mercedes-Benz.

It’s here where cars and culture go together so well. For example, there is the must-see Mercedes-Benz Museum, with its stylish architecture and perfectly maintained collections. My ‘home’ for two nights was Mövenpick Hotel Stuttgart Airport, a stylish 4-star hotel less than a five-minute walk from the arrivals hall. Modern, and conveniently placed, it was a physical incarnation of German efficiency.

At 10h00 sharp an immaculate 1967 Mercedes-Benz 600 pulled up at the doors of the hotel. In its day, this grand Pullman had established new and even higher standards than had ever been seen before in automotive engineering and excellence. If ever there was an appropriate car to travel in style from Stuttgart to Sindelfingen – home of Mercedes-Benz Advanced Design Centre – this is surely it.

Suitably inspired with that spirit, the intention of my visit to Sindelfingen was to make the link to the automotive portfolio of the future. After all, it’s here that they transform personal and cultural inspiration into visions of future mobility.

Gorden Wagener & Richard Webb (on right)

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Upon arrival, I soon discover appropriately tight security, and was asked to hand over my iPhone. Reluctantly, I surrendered it, as all hopes of scooping an amazing future Mercedes-Benz before anyone else was instantly dashed.

I had met Daimler’s Head of Design, Gorden Wagener before, in Cape Town. Affable and charming, he encourages the creative heads of the Advanced Design Centre to have free rein over their ideas here – where show cars, research vehicles, as well as product and design studies are created. This is where the decisions about the designs we will be seeing in 20 or 30 years are made.

In a world where so much is going on, a world in which our lives can be determined through the Internet and the media, Wagener believes we yearn for products with a design idiom that is restful to our eyes. He leads me into the bright open plan theatre where the media –when invited – previews cars. This was where I first clapped my eyes on the new S-Class Cabriolet, parked close to an immaculate 1955 300SL ‘Gullwing’.

Next to the iconic ‘Gullwing’ was another icon in the making. Based on the sublime S-Class Coupé, it has reduced, clear lines and an almost bionic metal shape stretched tautly over a mass of high-tech features. It is both purist and expressive at the same time, and it takes me a minute to realise that my mouth is open in awe of the sheer sensual presence of the car.

This Cabriolet is the sixth and final iteration to come out of the Mercedes-Benz S-Class family, alongside the existing saloon, coupé, and the ‘hand-crafted by racers’ Mercedes-AMG variants.

The S-Class Cabriolet shares many of its styling features with the >

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1955 Mercedes-Benz 300SL ‘Gullwing’

Coupé, including LED headlights and the front-end design. It even features a fabric roof that can be opened – or closed – in 20 seconds, at speeds of up to 60kph.

It’s too early to predict what models will be available here in South Africa when it goes on sale in the middle of 2016. However, my guess will be that we will see a 334kW twin-turbocharged 4.7-litre V8 in the S500, which should be capable of returning an astonishing 8.5l/100km. The flagship version in the range is likely to be the 430kW twin-turbocharged 5.5-litre V8 S63 version. If that’s not enough, a 463kW twin-turbocharged 6.0-litre V12 option is likely to be added in the future.

The S-Class Cabriolet is the first four-sweater luxury soft-top model from Mercedes since the 112 series – which ended production in 1971 – rather than a 2+2. Of course, this genre is not new for the brand, but it has been absent from the large convertible market for some time and it is a beautiful car. It is not just aesthetic appeal, the form is emotional, and creates a bridge between the beauty of the object and the artistic expression of the designer.

I asked Wagener about his work; ‘No other brand can boast of such legendary vehicles,’ says Wagener, who, since 2008, has been tasked with leading Mercedes-Benz Design towards a progressive design approach. “The designers who work in the unit today consciously focus on updating the history of the automobile, and they work Claudia Walters from Mercedes-Benz South Africa & Richard Webb with 1967 Mercedes-Benz 600

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meticulously to ensure that certain design features continue to evolve, yet still retain the brand’s style.” He considers a designer at Mercedes-Benz to be the ambassador of the product, to be “its lawyer who lobbies for the selection of high-quality materials and the necessary investments.” Sophistication, love and a taste for details, as well as painstaking attention to the materials used for both the exterior and the interior are all part of the job.

From the 220S Ponton Cabriolet to the iconic 190SL roadster, and all the way up to this new Cabriolet, Mercedes-Benz has a long history of producing exquisite convertible cars that set pulses racing and capture the public imagination.

It seems that every designer wants his or her creation – whether it be a wristwatch, concept car or a brilliant idea – to touch the personality of the individual and to lead him or her in a spontaneous, ‘Wow, that’s good!’ Looking at the new S-Class Cabriolet, there’s no doubt that it will be a source of memories and emotions for a long, long time to come. And, yes, ‘Wow, that does look good.’

Richard Webb inside the S-class Cabriolet

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The House of Van Ryn South Africa’s most recognised Distillery...

BY MOIRA THEART

In what is a stellar year of international acclaim for the House of Van Ryn’s potstill brandies, the Stellenbosch-based distillery adds another five star Platter rating to their long list of local accolades and awards.

The 2016 Platter’s South African Wine Guide awarded the Van Ryn’s 15 year old Fine Cask Reserve its highest rating of five stars, an acknowledgment of rare and exceptional quality. The brandy now joins its peers, the 12 year old Distiller’s Reserve and the 20 year old Collector’s Reserve, and the pinnacle of the Van Ryn’s range, Au.Ra, in the ranks of the exclusive five star club.

‘Van Ryn’s is South Africa’s most awarded brandy distillery according to the Platter’s ratings,” said Distell brandy ambassador Nick Holdcroft. “This is high praise from what is considered as South Africa’s most comprehensive and authoritative guide to local wines and brandies and their success is in no small part due to the efforts of Master Distiller Marlene Bester who curates the brandies and oversees the delicate maturation and blending process.’

The Van Ryn’s 15 year old has excellent credentials on the global stage, having won the Best International Brandy Trophy at the International Spirits Challenge in 2014. Comparable to the world’s best cognacs, this potstill brandy shows an intensity of fruit characters with a twist of citrus and a delectable trace of chocolate.

Rich in colour and flavour, its honeyed-citrus aromas reveal a full palate laced with sweet oak spices and a creamy texture which ends in a lingering, but satisfyingly clean finish. >

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SUMMER 2015

If you live in the Cape, the words ‘wine tasting’ probably evoke memories of long, lazy afternoons spent sipping wine while overlooking a pastoral vista of vineyards and a farm dam. Even better, it’s completely acceptable for those who prefer more sedentary activities to announce they will be spending the afternoon ‘wine tasting’. Much like running, hiking or cycling, wine tasting is also a leisure activity, the perfect way to spend time with a group of friends without having to squeeze into a lurid lycra outfit. For many people, enthusiasm for wine is increased by additional knowledge and sensory information about the grape varieties, tastes and aromas and it is in search of this that they head to the Winelands.

Since South Africa’s brandies start off as wine before being distilled and matured, this golden liquid shares many of the same flavour profiles as wine and, unsurprisingly, can appeal to those who already enjoy a glass of the Cape’s finest wines. With umpteen award-winning potstill brandies produced in the Western Cape, a world of taste awaits adventurous wine tasters who dare to educate their palates and expand their repertoires with something new.

Radio and TV personality Elana Afrika-Bredenkamp discovered brandy while in the kitchen looking for a way to enhance the taste of an apple crumble she made for her father and father-in-law. A winemaker in her own right, the presenter said it was ‘the status, the look and the taste’ of brandy which attracted her. A member of the South African Brandy Guild, Afrika-Bredenkamp said it was ‘always a conversation starter when I’m holding a brandy’, which she prefers neat, with a drop of water.

For those wanting to sample some of South Africa’s award-winning brandies, paired with a slice of delicious chocolate cake, head to the House of Van Ryn’s in Stellenbosch and taste the International Wine and Spirits Competition’s Best Worldwide Brandy for 2015 - the Van Ryn’s Distiller’s Reserve 12 year old. In Robertson, the Klipdrift Distillery is also open seven days a week.

When tasting both wine and brandy, some of the same flavour descriptors are used. The wine aroma tasting wheel – a standardised terminology invented to assist in describing the nose or smell of a wine – shares aromatic descriptors with the brandy aroma wheel.

These can include nutty, caramel, herbaceous and vegetative, fruity, floral, spicy, earthy and woody.

But how did some of the country’s leading palates and arbiters of fine wine embark on their own brandy journeys?

It was Tinashe Nyamudoka, Head Sommelier at The Test Kitchen, Cape Town whose appreciation of wine has led to a better understanding of how brandy is made and matured. ‘We used to drink brandy in my college days, usually with a mix. But just like wine, which has a story to tell from grapes to bottle, I’ve learnt about the different brandy styles and searched for those which suit my palate.

Once you understand the craftsmanship behind the golden liquid in the glass and how it’s supposed to be enjoyed, it is then when you start appreciating the smooth taste.’

Le Kap Magazine is offering two lucky readers the chance to win this exclusive brandy hamper from the House of Van Ryn. Presented in a handcrafted wooden box, the prize includes the full range of Van Ryn’s award winning brandies comprising their 10 yr old Vintage Brandy, 12 year old Distiller’s Reserve, 15 year old Fine Cask Reserve and the 20 year old Collectors Reserve. The first two readers that email us to; info@lemagpublications.com with the answer to this question - What year did the Van Ryn’s legacy begin in South Africa? - will win the hamper.

LE KAP

Exotic Fusions

BY JEAN-VINCENT RIDON

Exotic and unusual combinations of food are part of our lifestyle today. As the popularity of these selections increases, it seems that we should start including them in our menus more frequently.

These taste extravaganzas need to feature in our culinary habits by creating variations incorporating their essence. This is what fusion food is all about and it is thriving and growing in popularity daily and includes delicacies such as fashionable Peruvian cuisine snacks created from insects!

However, we should not forget how simple culinary life was in the past! Imagine Europe in the Middle Ages; salt was a rare commodity, no spices were available and the choice of vegetables limited to, for example turnips, carrots and cabbages. At that time, sweetness was only provided by honey, meat was a rarity and game was only for aristocrats. For pre-Columbian Italy, there were no tomatoes for pizza making and no cornflour to make polenta, as both these ingredients were imported from the Americas by the first explorers. In England, the traditional fish and chips did not exist because potatoes were only discovered and brought from South America much later.

South Africa is not immune to this and a catalogue of new flavours, new textures, new spices and new ingredients is available. A variety of specialities in African food, Middle Eastern spices, Indian and Chinese cuisine are readily obtainable here, alongside meaty Argentinean dishes, the more refined Spanish tapas, and the famous Chilean mariscos . All of these influence our traditional chefs, who now create this world fusion food that the public raves about, turning chefs like Liam Tomlin, Laurent Deslandes, Luke Dale-Roberts and Richard Carsteen into celebrities for their ability to mix ingredients.

JEAN VINCENT RIDON

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With my French heritage, I cannot see any addition to my lifestyle taking place that would not comply with what is essential to my food culture and philosophy: wine! However, pairing wine with all these unusual flavours can be tricky and this globalisation of food can be a nightmare for the wine lover. As much as simple food pairing tricks can serve the classic dishes, even the most experienced sommelier has to think twice before guiding a client.

Make it a game. If you feel enthusiastic about a new dish, you need to start your quest for a perfect pairing to turn this into an unforgettable experience. Advice from professional sommeliers can be useful, but these fusion recipes often break rules, or are unique creations, so you will have to discover the perfect wine to match the meal. There is always more than one perfect option, so now you become the artist, adding your personal touch to an innovative chef’s creation.

What to pair with what? This is a never-ending game that will provide unforgettable experiences. The first guideline is to opt for white over red. When it comes to fusion food you always find hidden spices, sweet and sour tastes, blends of ingredients based on textures and selecting a white wine will offer a wider variety of possibilities.

Some wine lovers will advocate that red wines have always been the best food matches, but we must accept that the world has changed and not only on the food front. Over the last 30 years, the wine industry has experienced a revolution. Better vineyard management and global warming have resulted in riper wines that are more alcoholic and intense, with less acidity and made for quicker consumption.

In Northern Europe and the USA, wine is viewed as a social beverage to drink on its own and not only while enjoying good food. So, wineries started producing bolder wines, more physical wines, but not necessarily the most elegant when it comes to food pairing.

The red wines of our grandparents were austere, tight with a high acidity. One had to cellar them for years before they could be thoroughly enjoyed, but they made perfect food matches. Among modern wines, we often have to go white to find the acidity lost by red wines. Whether your wine is dry or sweet, acidity is always the base of any decent food pairing. This is why, when in doubt, white wine is the easy option.

The second rule is not to focus too much on the fruit of the wine, but more on its texture. Keep in mind that whatever warm dishes you will have in front of you these will always have a more intense smell than any other wine. Your favourite sundowner wine with an explosive nose may not combine well with food, so more mature white wines may be suitable because of their more complex flavours. This rule applies even more to fusion dishes when the exotic spices are already captivating your olfactory senses.

LE KAP

Acidity provides further assistance in food matching, as it cuts through the richness of the dish and wine matched with rich and highly flavoured dishes should be more acidic. This is the French paradox at its best. There are no rules in food pairing; wine lovers can explore further, moving away from the classic reds with meat and cheese, and white with seafood.

Sushi and Sashimi, the fruit of the Japanese Art de Vivre, fit sakĂŠ perfectly. However, when it comes to choosing a wine you need to see what you have on your plate. If you choose classic sashimi with very lean tuna, select a white wine with medium acidity, but if your choice is salmon, this fatty and tasty fish requires a wine with high acidity, so a young zesty Chenin Blanc will be most suitable. Stay away from wines like a greenish Sauvignon Blanc, as this would overpower the delicate raw flesh.

White asparagus is new to the South African scene and is now cultivated on farms in the Western Cape, but finding the correct wine to accompany this dish is often difficult. A bone-dry Riesling or an unwooded Chardonnay may offer a perfect match.

White wines can combine very well with Asian specialities. However, it is necessary to compensate for the hot spiciness with sweetness, to avoid the burning effect on your tongue. In the extreme, a naturally sweet Muscat will pair well with a very hot Thai green curry while you will just need a semi-sweet Chenin Blanc for your spicy stir-fry.

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Opening your mind to exotic food pairing requires a true wine explorer to think outside the box. Here the discovery of unusual cultivars, treasured by those experienced in food pairing, is essential; especially when they are made slightly off dry in a way to integrate a high acidity without becoming aggressively sharp. For matching medium spiciness, a German style Bukettraube, Riesling, Grüner Veltliner or a Gewürztraminer is suggested. If the taste is spicy but not hot, riper cultivars offer a full body and a suave texture on the palate: Grenache Blanc, Viognier, Marsanne or Roussanne are Mediterranean cultivars and will match your savoury soya infused stir-fry perfectly. These wines can also accompany white meats such as pork, chicken or veal, and their full body can handle smokiness.

For the hardcore red wine drinker, it is time to get away from classic Merlot or Cabernet Sauvignon. Fusion food often needs wines, which are less acidic and compatible with a broader spectrum, because most of the dishes will combine multiple textures and flavours and the wine needs to be able to accept this diversity of perceptions.

Richly flavoured dishes require acidity to be present in the red wine.

Gamay Noir, Carignan or the traditional Cinsault and Tinta Barocca are making a fashionable return to South Africa. Their natural fruity freshness makes the dish far more digestible.

With simpler dishes, when in doubt, find a red wine with silky tannins, such as Grenache Noir, Nebbiolo or the legendary Pinot Noir. The velvety mouth feel and integrated tannic structure offer

possibilities to cover a wide range of pairings. Do not be surprised by the lighter colour intensity of these wines. They will not collapse when matched with the most sophisticated dishes Make it fun and, whenever you find something unusual on the wine list, take a chance and try it. There is always more than one perfect pairing, so the more you explore uncharted areas, the more you risk surprising and delighting your palate. to paraphrase my grandfather, ‘If we have to stay monogamous, at least we can enjoy a different dish and a different wine every day!’

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Breguet, the innovator.

The Marine 5827 chronograph

Having become a member of the Board of Longitude in Paris in 1814, Abraham-Louis Breguet was appointed Horologer to the French Royal Navy by Louis XVIII the following year. This prestigious title, embodying exceptional scientific competence, is now perpetuated through the Marine collection and the Marine 5827 chronograph, which features a central chronograph minutes and seconds. History is still being written...

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