Men's Passion #73 - December 2015/ January 2016

Kuwait Yacht Show 2016 1st to 4th February

A larger in-water display, more regional premieres, and a wider selection of fishing boats, sailing boats, and large yachts.

KUWAIT YACHT SHOW

2016

1st till 4th of February at Marina Crescent

31st of Jan: by invitation only 1st - 4th of Feb: open to the public Exhibition opens: 4:00 pm to 9:30 pm daily • Middle East Premieres • Competitive prices and special promotions • Participation from marine-related governmental bodies

Contact us: Tel: (+965) 25720810, 25716177 Fax: (+965) 25720860 info@ph7-kw.com www.kuwaityachtshow.com Insurance Partner

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Part of PH7 Group

Media Sponsors

Ticketing Partner

Official Magazine

Contracting Partner

@kuwaityachtshow In collaboration with

‫ دوﻟﺔ اﻟﻜﻮﻳﺖ‬- ‫وزارة اﻟﺘﺠﺎرة واﻟﺼﻨﺎﻋﺔ‬

Official Newspaper Partner

Gold Sponsor

Platinum Sponsors

Being italian.

Seas & Deserts - Azimut Sales Kuwait: Al Rai, St. 20, Tel.: +965 9444 5645 UAE & Oman: Sheikh Zayed Road, Tel.: +971 4351 9950 Qatar: +974 3389 5099 www.seadesert.com

azimutgrande.com

ISSUE NUMBER 73 - DECEMBER 2015/ JANUARY 2016

JUST A THOUGHT Dear Passionate Readers, Preparing for the 4th Edition of the Kuwait Yacht Show, KYS 2016, I cannot help but reminisce over what we had to go through to make the 1st Edition come to life. To remember all the hurdles and obstacles we faced, all the various entities we had to rally and, most importantly, all the people who stood by us, believed in us, and gave us their full support.

In 2013, I stood in front of the local, regional and international media and made a commitment to organize an annual yacht show that would grow stronger every year to the point where it becomes a national event awaited by all.

Today, I stand in front of you, to thank all of Kuwait who stood by us and helped us honor our commitment.

Many ask me... “is the Kuwait Yacht show worth all the effort and trouble you go through?”

My answer is simple... Is life worth living?!

Everything that is worthy in our lives comes as the fruit of painful labor, and we all know that the greater the effort, the greater the end result and the sweeter the reward.

MEN’S PASSION is all about the celebration of the human quest for “the more”, the making of the impossible possible, the finer things not just in life; but in being, the vision and the drive to excel and to leave a mark.

Most of the brands we feature are the fruit of such hard work and commitment that their legacy has survived history and found its way into our today. Most of the people we feature are sacrificing their today for their passions to leave a mark on their tomorrow.

So is it worth it? You tell me...

To KYS 4th Edition, to all our supporters, to Kuwait’s maritime heritage, to all the passionate people of Kuwait, We dedicate this issue,

Zeina Mokaddam Managing Director

Arraya Centre - Ground Floor

KARL HOLMQVIST

ON THE COVER: December 2015/ January 2016 Back for its 4th Edition, and bigger and better than ever, February sees the opening of the 2016 Kuwait Yacht Show. More than a favorite on Kuwait’s maritime calendar it’s now a ‘mustsee’ show for yacht-lover across the reason.

As the official magazine of this year’s KYS you won’t be surprised by this issue’s distinct nautical flavor. Cast off, sit back, and enjoy!

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Amera Al-Awadhi LEGAL CONSULTANT Khaled Al-Kandari Al-Kandari Law Firm PUBLISHED BY

MANAGING DIRECTOR Zeina Mokaddam ACTING MANAGING DIRECTOR Nouf Al-Hajri Kuwait Yacht Show 2016

MANAGING EDITOR Simon Balsom

1st to 4th February

A larger in-water display, more regional premieres, and a wider selection of fishing boats, sailing boats, and large yachts.

CONTRIBUTORS Yasmine Bandar (Editorial) Zeina Al-Ayoub (PR) MaryAnn D’Silva (PR) Cityscape (Real Estate)

CONTENTS 16 Kuwait Yacht Show 2016

February 1st — 4th

at Marina Crescent

29 Sea-Doo

20 IFBSO

The Inter national Federation of

Boat Show Organizers

32 Sabah Al Ahmad Sea City

Khiran, Kuwait

HEAD OF PHOTOGRAPHY Maher Al-Nouri

34 Sail Safely Initiative

Plans to educate with

Farid Al Fozan

PRODUCTION MANAGER Nidal Shaker

22 Gulf Craft 23 Princess Yachts 24 Azimut 95RPH Grande 25 Pershing 62 26 Prestige Yachts 27 Suzuki Motors 28 Honda Marine BF250

30 Hollis

CREATIVE DIRECTOR Tarek Kabbani

36 Talal Al Sabih

General Manager of Fahad Al

Sabih General Trading Co. 38 Messing About On The Water

with Kuwait Watersports 44 The Free-diver

Abdullah Alsabri

PH7 is a specialized publishing house based in Kuwait.

Telephone +(965) 2572 0810 Fax +(965) 2572 0860 Website www.ph7-kw.com To maintain the desired quality of our publication, your contribution and feedback are welcomed.

Please email your suggestions to zeina@ph7-kw.com For advertising, do not hesitate to contact info@ph7-kw.com For subscription, please email your details to info@ph7-kw.com PH7 wishes to state that the opinions expressed in MEN’S PASSION are those of the authors concerned and not necessarily those of the publisher.

BPA Worldwide Consumer Publication Audit Membership Applied for September 2014.

It’s time to believe in yourself.

TONY PARKER. WILLIAM ANTHONY PARKER IS A FRENCH PROFESSIONAL BASKETBALL PLAYER IN THE NBA, ONE OF THE MOST TALENTED IN THE WORLD. HE HAS PROVEN THAT MEASURING 1.88 METERS IS NOT AN OBSTACLE TO REACHING THE TOP. TONY IS WEARING A TISSOT CHEMIN DES TOURELLES AUTOMATIC WITH A POWERMATIC 80 MOVEMENT WITH UP TO 80 HOURS OF POWER RESERVE.

TI S S OT WATC H E S .CO M TISSOT, INNOVATORS BY TRADITION

THE LUXE REVIEW 48

The New BMW 7 Series Driving pleasure, luxury and long-distance, comfort redefined

70 The Art of Creative Disruption

with Rick de la Croix,

founder Bomberg

50

The Next Step in the Industrial Revolution Industrie 4.0 – Digitalisation at Mercedes-Benz

72 BOSS Menswear & Sportswear

Fall / Winter 15

52 King Of The Hill

Range Rover 55 Dubai Inter national

Motor Show

Wrap 2015 58 The True Second

Geophysic - The milestone

collection from Jaeger-LeCoultre

75 Salvatore Ferragamo

Autumn / Winter 2015 / 16 80 Global Limited-Edition Collection

from TUMI 82 Featherweight Warmth

from Hackett London 84 Cruising The World

Which boats to book for 2016

88 Dubai Design Week 62 Jaeger-LeCoultre’s Geophysic Wrap

Inventive Spirit Encapsulated 90 Zeitgeist 64 Never Stand Still

Bang & Olufsen BeoLab 90

A. Lange & Söhne 92 Kuwait Outward 65 Panerai Radiomir 1940

Investment Surges

at Watches & Wonders 96 Events 66 Bell & Ross

at Only Watch 68

The Martian at Only Watch Hamilton Watches back on an epic jour ney

Dual Time Manufacture Self-winding manufacture movement with Silicium technology.

Patented unique time zone quick setting.

18 ct rose gold case. Water-resistant to 30 m.

Also available in stainless steel. Limited Edition of 500 pieces.

U LY S S E - N A R D I N . C O M

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MARINE KUWAIT

Kuwait Yacht Show 2016 Februar y 1st — 4th at Marina Crescent

K

uwait’s connection to the sea is historically well documented, and it remains key to our lives today. One does not have to venture off-shore in order to feel the importance of the sea – the vast majority of imports are delivered by ship and, of course, the calm waters of the Arabian Gulf provide our oil wealth with easy access to the world. We are a nation variously reliant on and devoted to the sea. Increasingly though, we turn to the sea for our recreation and it’s never been easier to get out on the water.

MARINE KUWAIT

Back for its 4th edition, the Kuwait Yacht Show seeks to ride the crest of the region’s recreational marine wave, and as interest in yachts, boats and all things water-borne increases, so do the choices of where to go and what to buy.

That this should be the largest Kuwait Yacht Show (KYS) so far is fitting and appropriate given the dynamism within the country’s marine sector today. The industry has seen itself transformed in the course of the past three years. Marine dealers in Kuwait are committed to their local clients above all others and like never before, and they have renewed confidence to invest in stock rather than simply delivering to order, and relying on their customers’ patience while awaiting delivery.

The establishment of two new sailing clubs is well advanced for 2016, and a number of dealers are introducing lines of small to medium-sized sailboats to cater for the growing interest in wind-powered adventure.

Developers have finally caught on, and whilst the country has been desperately short of marina berths for many years now, numbers are beginning to catch up with demand; more than 400 berths were added this year at Sabah al Ahmad Sea City alone, with more to come here and at other locations along the coastline.

For so long a minor player in the commercial marine world, today Kuwait is home to a number of the largest and most successful maritime companies, including Seas & Deserts.

The Al Rai-based company has recently added Bahrain to its regional network as dealer for Italy’s Azimut Yachts to their existing list of Kuwait, Qatar, Oman and the United Arab Emirates.

Local dealers have marked their commitment to K YS in solid forms, earmarking the show for regional unveilings of a number of craft and other equipment. Al Rodan Marine will be exhibiting for the first time, displaying the full range of Fibrafor t Boats, in addition to their 25’ Center Console Rodan Boat and other products from the Rodan Fiberglass factor y. Nasser Al Rodan told us.

“K YS has proved itself in the past couple of years to be one of the best boat shows in the region. For us this is the first time we are going to be par t of it, and we are looking forward to a successful par ticipation”.

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MARINE KUWAIT

He continued, “The past year has been a remarkably exceptional one since it saw the opening new marinas in Kuwait, something that was on hold for too long, and we hope that as these marinas open it will rejuvenate the marine market and the sale of boats and yachts; this was also held back due to the lack of these facilities”.

Eduoard Assaf, of Sea Pros, is very familiar with KYS, “For us this is an incomparable opportunity to expand our market exposure and attract new prospects. In addition, it is the perfect show for us to scan the competition and discover the newest products, toys and technologies in the market”.

Sea Pros will be premiering the Galeon 500 and Pershing 62 during the Kuwait Yacht Show.

For Edouard too the opening of additional berths at Khiran has been the big event for marine-Kuwait in 2015. For 2016 he’s looking forward to further additions, as well as the opening of professional service center at Khiran. With Sea Pros his aim is; “To improve our high level of aftersales services and keep our clients satisfied.

In addition, we are definitely aiming to sell and have more of our luxurious selective yachts in Kuwait, and specifically in the new marinas”.

Ahmad Hamid Marhaba, Seas & Desert’s Sales and Marketing Manager, agrees with the consensus that Sea City’s additional berths will have on the marine market and he, like so many others, feels sure that the next phases at Sea City, and Kuwait’s other upcoming openings, will further boost the sector.

MARINE KUWAIT

Seas & Deserts is a model example of a Kuwaiti business making it on the regional stage. We’ve already mentioned their growth in partnership with Italy’s Azimut. Of this Hamid says, “Growth like this strengthens our image and reputation not only in the region, but in the international marine business as well”. They’re looking globally, and he adds, “It’s not only the regional economic situation that affects our business, today it’s also the international situation”.

2016 looks like a year of renewed expansion for Seas & Deserts, with the opening of their showroom and sales office at The Pearl, Qatar. He feels this will enable a big step forward for them within the Qatari market.

Al Sabih Marine’s Talal Al Sabih takes a more specific view of the growth in Kuwait’s marine business. He’s looking most positively towards a surge in the use of technology within the local market. “In the past year, the most significant steps forward that the marine sector in Kuwait took is in the field of new technology”, he says. “Technology in the marine industry has expanded a lot lately. For example, there are many marine devices that now connect with smartphones.

We’re looking forward to this continuing, and technology continuing to deliver what the customer wants”.

Whatever happens, it looks like 2016 will be a bumper year for all within Kuwait’s marine business. The ultimate beneficiary is, of course, the customer. They’re now receiving greater choice and better service than ever before. The only place you’ll have an opportunity to see the best of Kuwait’s nautical world in one location is at the Kuwait Yacht Show. We’ll see you there!

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THE FEDERATION

IFBSO

THe International Federation of Boat Show Organizers

T

he 2015 international boat show calendar was already packed, and yet for 2016 you can be sure there’ll be new events added. Where there is a marine passion and a commercial will (combined with deep pockets), there exist the perfect ingredients for a boat show. In a currently booming sector, a show’s mere existence gives no guarantee of its quality. Step forward the International Federation of Boat Show Organisers (IFBSO). Founded in 1964, a show’s membership of the IFBSO is an effective and genuine seal of approval. It’s a club whose membership cannot simply be bought, but must instead be earned.

Mis sion s t atement IFBSO’s mission is to help member organisations mount cost- ef fective, qualit y exhibitions for the recreational marine industr y around the world, by providing a forum for the exchange of ideas and the development of co - operation bet ween member s.

A ims This mission translates into four key aims: • To help IFBSO member s create dynamic, cost- ef fective, customer-friendly and profitable marketing events for exhibitor s.

• To help IFBSO member s produce viable shows.

• To help the grow th of the recreational marine industr y.

• To promote the boating lifest yle.

THE FEDERATION

“The IFBSO has a lengthy histor y in the boat show industr y”, explains its General Secretar y Renate Maddocks-Born, “and we count many of the world’s key shows as our member s”.

Indeed, the list of member and candidate member events reads like a Who’s Who of the boat show world.

Barcelona International Boat Show, Boot Dusseldor f, the London Boat Show, Miami International, Qatar, Korea and of cour se Kuwait’s own annual yacht show are only some of the headlines. “ We’re in the business of providing advice and guidance to new and existing shows, and delivering an international standard through our IFBSO Code of E xcellence”, she adds.

Recognizing the shif t towards rapid grow th in the industr y, whilst still seeking to protect its own hardearned reputation, in 2014 it introduced dif ferent member ship levels – something that, as the year s pass, will prove of benefit to both itself and the industr y.

The Kuwait Yacht Show was one of the fir st to become a candidate member – the fir st step on the rung to becoming a coveted full member of the IFBSO. “ H av i n g r e c r u i te d n e w c a n d i d a te m e m b e r s , we m a tc h e d t h e m w i t h m e n to r s f o r a t h r e e -ye a r m e n to r s h i p s c h e m e . T h i s s c h e m e a l l ow s n e w s h ow s to j o i n , w h i l s t p r ov i d i n g t h e m w i t h a d v i c e a n d g u i d a n c e w h i c h w i l l e n s u r e t h a t a t t h e e n d of t h e i r m e n to r s h i p t h ey c o m p l y w i t h e i t h e r t h e b a s i c s t a n d a r d o r f u l l I FB S O C o d e o f E xc e l l e n c e”.

A key eve n t f o r t h e Fe d e r a t i o n i s i t s a n n u a l c o n g r e s s .

H e l d t h i s ye a r i n G d a n s k , Po l a n d a n d s c h e d u l e d f o r J u n e 2016 i n Tr i e s te , I t a l y, i t ’s t h e t i m e w h e n m e m b e r s m e e t w i t h t h e I FB S O exe c u t i ve c o m m i t te e , r ev i e w t h e ye a r a n d l o o k f o r wa r d to t h e t we l ve months ahead.

A m o n g s t i t s n e w m e m b e r s a r e B PA Wo r l d w i d e w h o, a s I FB S O’s p r e f e r r e d m e d i a a n d s h ow a s s u r a n c e a g e n c y, p r ov i d e s i t s m e m b e r s w i t h a c o m p e t i t i ve s h ow a u d i t p a c k a g e . I t ’s a l l p a r t of p r o m o t i n g t r a n s p a r e n c y w i t h i n t h e i n d u s t r y, a n d p r ov i d i n g ex h i b i to r s a s we l l a s v i s i to r s a n d b u ye r s w i t h t h e c o n f i d e n c e t h a t t h ey a r e d e a l i n g w i t h a p r ofe s s i o n a l l y m a n a g e d s h ow.

A n d i t ’s a s t r a te g y t h a t i s wo r k i n g we l l. “ L a s t ye a r ”, R e n a te r e p o r t s , “a l l of o u r m e m b e r s h ow s d e l i ve r e d a n i n c r e a s e i n b u s i n e s s”.

While the global business continues to grow a l m o s t e x p o n e n t i a l l y, w e ’r e l i k e l y t o s e e I F B S O accredited shows grow at a more sustainable rate.

T h e y b e e n a r o u n d f o r f i v e f u l l d e c a d e s n o w, a n d have regularly shown they are commit ted to the industr y for the long term.

A s i s s o of te n t h e c a s e w i t h t h e m o s t e n d u r i n g of s u c c e s s e s , R e n a te a n d t h e I n te r n a t i o n a l Fe d e r a t i o n of B o a t S h ow O r g a n i s e r s a r e m o r e a b o u t evo l u t i o n t h a n t h ey a r e a b o u t r evo l u t i o n .

Yo u c a n f i n d o u t m o r e a b o u t t h e I FB S O a n d i t s m e m b e r s h ow s a t i f b s o . c o m

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MARINE KUWAIT

Gulf Craft Gulf Craft is one of the top 10 superyacht shipyards in the world. Gulf Craft’s vision is to be at the forefront of yacht and pleasure-boat manufacturing with a reputation for innovation, quality, and value for money.

The passion derives from whole-hearted enthusiasm for the yachting industry and equal dedication to quality of production and semi customised designs.

Gulf Craft was built on that premise and everything the company does reflects the core values and exceptional qualities of its people and its operations.

The drive to apply the latest technologies and to meet the design requirements of customers all over the globe forces a constant rejuvenation and rethinking of production process and products and services manifesting it in ever improving product quality.

Majesty Yachts In May 2015, UAE superyacht builder Gulf Craft launched its largest yacht yet, the 47 metre Majesty Yachts 155. The 47 metre Majesty Yachts 155 is the new flagship of Gulf Craft’s Majesty Yachts brand. Sitting at the top of the builder’s Superyacht Collection line, she follows the recent launches of the Majesty Yachts 122, a Majesty 135 and a new Majesty 105.

Nomad A product of exceptional craftsmanship and engineering, and created out of a passion for redefining boating everyday, we bring you the Nomad 75. Because exploration never stops.

Oryx Sport Cruisers The Oryx sport yachts and cruisers combine power and performance with exceptional styling. Rigid and robust, these elegant creations are built for luxury and comfort, with an eye for detail and a dedication to excellent craftsmanship.

Kuwait Dealer: Al Boom Marine was established in 1987 by Adel Al Sumait and has since grown to be the biggest distributor and dealer in Kuwait for luxury yachts and pleasure craft. Al Boom Marine has various workshops and showrooms situated throughout Kuwait and caters not only for the recreational market, but also provides its services to commercial as well as various governmental departments and institutions.

MARINE KUWAIT

Princess Yachts T h e o r i g i n s o f P r i n c e s s Ya c h t s c a n b e t r a c e d b a c k to a d ay e a r l y i n 19 6 3 w h e n t h r e e m e n s e t a b o u t s t a r t i n g u p a b o a t c h a r te r i n g b u s i n e s s .

C l i f f V i n ey a f o r m e r m e r c h a n t n av y e n g i n e e r wo r k i n g a s a m a r i n e e n g i n e t u n e r. D av i d K i n g a s e r v i n g of f i c e r i n t h e R oya l N av y a n d B r i a n Ph i l l i p s a l s o a s e r v i n g o f f i c e r i n t h e R oya l N av y ; d e c i d e d to p u r c h a s e a S e n i o r 31 h u l l a n d d e c k m o u l d i n g to f i t o u t i n t h e i r r e n te d s h e d i n N e w p o r t S t r e e t , Pl y m o u t h .

The 31 foot hull and superstructure arrived within a few days and the men decided to form a limited company.

Today they manufacture a range of 20 models ranging from 42-130ft and are recognised amongst the world leaders in the boat building industry. Years of experience and skill have been invested in the Princess brand, making it synonymous with the highest quality, outstanding performance and the ultimate in sea keeping, safety and comfort. The work of craftsmen in our Plymouth boatyards has spread the Princess reputation across Europe to the Middle East, from the Pacific Rim to the Americas.

At the heart of this success lies a total commitment to quality. Traditional skills meet with computer-aided design and precision manufacturing to create a beautifully crafted product at the highest level of efficiency.

The Princess 32M Luxur y Cruising Yacht With her elegant profile and unparalleled seakeeping abilities, the 32M is ever y inch a Princess, while setting new standards of style, sophistication and personalisation.

The Princess 72 Motor Yacht The 72 Motor Yacht per fectly combines the elegance and pedigree of a true motor yacht with class leading per formance, handling and seakeeping.

The Princess V57 V Class Spor ts Yacht With her sleek and dynamic profile, agile and exhilarating per formance and ex tensive interior accommodation, the new V57 is an exciting addition to the Princess V Class range.

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MARINE KUWAIT

Azimut 95RPH Grande

A new hull, new design, and innovative solutions for a vessel with many surprises in store. The new 95RPH is part of the Grande collection, the Italian builder’s line of 95’-120’ luxury yachts.

it includes a cushy exterior dinette that seats 10, a mini bar, Jacuzzi, and comfortable sunbathing area.

Thanks to the raised wheelhouse, the Azimut 95RPH Grande has five cabins, four guest cabins on the lower deck and the boatowner’s cabin on the main deck towards the bow. The exceptional view and large bathroom make the boatowner cabin a veritable suite with an unparalleled sea view.

The layout sleeps 10 with the boatowner’s suite and four VIP cabins, each with a private bath; there is also a day head. The four-member crew has three cabins and two baths to the bow, with separate access to the kitchen located on the main deck. The luxurious and elegant interiors are by Studio Salvagni Architetti for Azimut Yachts.

Another Azimut Grande trump card is without doubt the exceedingly spacious flybridge (+60 m2) - awarded Best in Class;

Reader s ar e invited to view the A zimut collection of yachts at the Kuwait Yacht S how 2 016 .

MARINE KUWAIT

Pershing 62

Pershing is known as one of the leading international manufacturers of high per formance motor yachts. They have recently launched their ver y first Pershing 62’.

Going bigger wasn’t the objective in this model. This new vessel has a new look that marks it apar t from former models. It is truly a rocket on the sea, standing out for its top per formance at sea, nothing can top the aggressive spor t y spirit of the Per shing 62’.

collaboration among the Product Strategic Commit tee and the Marketing Depar tment of the Group, together with Ferret ti Group engineer s and architects, the AY TD (Advanced Yacht Technology and Design, and Fulvio De Simoni. In keeping with the brand’s DNA , which has always been careful to make products that combine functionalit y, securit y and complete comfor t, this boat will allow the Owner to have an excellent time at sea.

Af ter careful analysis of past Per shing bestseller s – the 56’ and the 58’ – the Per shing 62’ was the result of the

Reader s ar e invited to view the Per shing 6 2 at the Kuwait Yacht S how 2 016 .

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MARINE KUWAIT

Prestige Yachts

R e n ow n e d I t a l i a n n ava l d e s i g n e r s , V i t to r i o a n d C a m i l l o G a r r o n i , h ave c o m b i n e d t h e i r t a l e n t s w i t h a n ex p e r i e n c e d Fr e n c h d e s i g n e r to c r e a te a t r u l y exc e p t i o n a l m o to r y a c h t: elegant as an Italian, s e a wo r t hy a s a Fr e n c h s a i l o r, a n d m o r e l i ve a b l e t h a n a ny o t h e r b o a t i n i t s c a te g o r y. W h e n c o m p a r e d w i t h a n o t h e r b o a t o f e q u a l s i z e , t h e P r e s t i g e i s b i g g e r.

A Quest For Qualit y P r e s t i g e i s a p r o d u c t o f o u r t i m e s , c r e a te d by a n i n te r n a t i o n a l te a m: Fr e n c h e n g i n e e r s , a n I t a l i a n

d e s i g n c a b i n e t , A m e r i c a n a n d S we d i s h e n g i n e m a n u f a c t u r e r s , a n d a n A m e r i c a n n ava l a r c h i te c t , e a c h s e l e c te d f r o m a m o n g t h e b e s t i n t h e i r f i e l d s .

T h e y wo r k to g e t h e r i n a c o n t i n u a l q u e s t f o r q u a l i t y.

N e w, p owe r f u l to o l s f r o m t h e wo r l d o f a u to m o b i l e s , d e p e n d a b l e a n d h i g h - p e r f o r m a n c e , h ave b e e n i n te g r a te d i n to p r o d u c t i o n l i n e s , we l l u p s t r e a m . T h i s q u e s t f o r t h e b e s t t a l e n t s , s k i l l s a n d to o l s , w h e r e ve r they may be found, encourages openness and i n n ova t i o n , a n d c o n t i n u a l l y i m p r ove s p e r f o r m a n c e .

MARINE KUWAIT

Suzuki Motors

Suzuki created their first outboard motor in 1965 and is celebrating the 50th anniversar y of the D55 in 2015.

They have come a long way since then and their current range of four stroke outboards is second to none in the marketplace. Suzuki’s engineers are passionate about boating and spend all of their time per fecting the fuel-efficient and technologically advanced four stroke outboard motors so that their products enable you to maximize your time on the water. So, from the lightweight and por table DF2.5 to the award winning power of the DF300AP, they’ve got an outboard to suit your way of life.

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MARINE KUWAIT

Honda Marine BF250

T

he BF250 outboard engine takes Honda into the next power range. This flagship engine combines a new 3.6L, V6 EFI engine with the world’s first direct air induction system in an outboard.

Live The Legend The BF250’s 3.6L V6 engine features a power ful, compact 24 valve SOHC design, without the bulk and weight of long intake runners and multicamshafts.

The narrow V6 design offers top per formance and durability as well as great fuel economy. The dynamic design feature of the BF250 allows external air to be drawn directly into the engine.

The result is a reduction in intake air temperature and an increase in air volume to the engine, delivering outstanding overall performance. And the BF250 also features a high performance gear case designed to withstand extreme conditions. This combined with a new gear ratio (2.00:1) and extensive range of propellers provides high levels of previously unseen all-round performance.

Readers are invited to visit Honda Alghanim’s display at the Kuwait Yacht Show 2016 .

MARINE KUWAIT

Sea-Doo

S

ea-Doo is the leading watercraft brand. Ride one and you’ll see why. Our exclusive technologies give you great days on the water that no one else can offer.

Sea-Doo watercraft deliver fun, control and peace of mind on the water.

Like never before, Sea-Doo offers the easiest way to be on the water. With the new, affordable Sea-Doo Spark, your family can start riding a playful watercraft. Extremely light—nearly half the weight of other watercraft— it’s easy to manoeuvre and also the most fuel-efficient watercraft in the industry. Plus, its compact design makes it simple to tow behind many cars and store conveniently in your garage.

Readers are invited to visit the Alghanim Sea-Doo display at the Kuwait Yacht Show 2016 .

28 29

MARINE KUWAIT

Hollis

H

ollis manufactures dependable and innovative technical diving equipment for Scuba divers exploration needs. Hollis bring engineering experience to the industr y, designing the highest quality diving equipment available.

Designed and built in the USA to accommodate the beginning sport diver to the exploratory technical diver, using the most cutting edge materials and proven technologies for any condition.

For 2016, Hollis introduced all new first stage regulator, DCX , and two new second stage regulators 200LX & 150LX .

Hollis newest flagship regulator is the 200LX + DCX Regulator, design by divers for divers. Every feature is designed with high performance and superior manufacturing at every step. The

200LX can be converted from a right-handed hose configuration to a left-handed hose configuration, in a manner of minutes.

The valve of the 200LX is “PVD� Industrial Plated. PVD is a super-hard coating that is by far the most durable coating available today. Superior quality that will outlast any traditional plating.

Reader s ar e invited to visit the iLmunz Marine display at the Kuwait Yacht S how 2 016

THE MARINE DEVELOPMENT

Sabah Al Ahmad Sea City Khiran, Kuwait

S

abah Al Ahmad Sea City presents an unparalleled opportunity in Kuwait to deliver a wide range of lifestyle experiences in a modern and desirable venue. The residential landscape embraces the sea throughout the integrated development of residential, commercial, retail and community facilities. As the Sea City has grown from its infancy to young adulthood it provides a high quality resort, with villas and apartments on beautiful beaches and calm waterways.

THE MARINE DEVELOPMENT

In the second quarter of 2015, Kuwait real estate developer La’ala Al Kuwait opened the first of the four marinas at the massive 4,700 hectare Sabah Al Ahmad Sea City project in the south of Kuwait. The 408 berth marina was 18 months in construction, the other marinas are already under construction or at an advanced planning stage, and offers new berths to the Kuwait market. The marina is the largest in the country and can handle craft from 10 to 40 meters in length.

With Kuwait being the largest boating market of all GCC countries, the Sea City marinas provide a much-needed facility and assist in stimulating the boat sales market in a country where registered boat numbers exceed berth availability by a factor of 10.

Sea City’s 5 star marina is constructed totally from concrete pontoons, providing amazing stability and facilitating access to all berths via golf buggies. Recognising the challenges of constructing an all-concrete marina in the desert, La’ala Al Kuwait collaborated with Ingemar of Italy in the design and construction of this 225,000 sq. meter marina (17,000 sq meters of floating units).

Linking Ingemar design and validation to the construction know how of La’ala Al Kuwait has delivered a facility that produces up to 28 concrete pontoons per week, 800 sq meters. An amazing feat for a company with no history of marina construction. Furthermore, with difficulty of procuring satisfactory marine piling companies, La’ala Kuwait converted one of their barges to receive a crane, bought the appropriate piling equipment and installed an average of 8 piles per day to incredible levels of position and vertical accuracy.

The level of service provided to boat owners: • Power to every berth, from 32 amp single phase up to 250 amp three phase.

• Water to each berth.

• At berth sanitary pumpout to 30% of berths.

• 7 fuel dispensers, including very high speed diesel supply.

• RFID actuated security gates and pedestals.

32 33

THE MARINE INITIATIVE

Sail Safely Initiative

K

Plans to educate with Farid Al Fozan

uwait’s affinity with the sea stretches back through the generations. Sons learned to sail by following their fathers on to the water. In turn, they passed on their knowledge of the seas to their sons. As the sea’s crucial role as the provider of commercial success began to fade in the years following the discovery of oil, the nation’s relationship with the sea evolved to become one of increasing pleasure and entertainment.

“The sea is one of my greatest passions,” Farid Al Fozan told us, “and it’s one I want to see everyone have an opportunity to experience – but I want to see them experience it in safety”.

For sure, whilst it’s a fun environment to explore, the sea does have inherent dangers. Although Farid is not a man for whom drama comes readily, he has a list of stories of Kuwaiti sailors who have been involved in accidents, received injuries and in some instances died – all for the lack of a little knowledge on their part or a fellow seaman’s part.

“At the moment anyone can get a licence to take a craft out to sea. The process is too easy”, he says. Accessibility to fast craft is easy – and whilst the sea offers a large space it’s surprising how often an inexpertly driven boat or jetski can get in to difficulty.

“Even something as basic as learning the local waters – where the reefs and rocks are, understanding marine signage – are ignored”, Farid explains.

Sail safely has partnered with the globally recognized International Yacht Training Worldwide group - an independent sailing and boating training organization which provides education and training standards for professional and recreational boaters and yachtsmen and women. They’ll offer courses to yachtsmen and women but, perhaps more crucially, they’ve sought to gain the support of the marine industry in Kuwait. A safe marine recreational environment is clearly a positive environment for their businesses. Farid and Sail Safely have persuaded dealers to raise the importance of safety higher up on their list of priorities.

As the initiative evolves, first-class navigation equipment will be part of the deal when buying a boat, and will a training course on how to spend time on the water safely.

A passionate yachtsman himself, Farid Al Fozan is determined to see as many share his passion as possible – and in the safest way possible.

You’ll be able to meet Farid and to learn more about the Sail Safely initiative, at the 2016 Kuwait Yacht Show.

‫‪THE MARINE INITIATIVE‬‬

‫“أبحر بأمان”‬

‫مخططات مبادرة التثقيف مع فريد الفوزان‬

‫يرجع انجذاب الكويت للبحر إلى أجيال ماضية‪ .‬وقد تعلم األبناء من آباءهم كيفية اإلبحار في المياه‪ .‬وبدورهم‪،‬‬ ‫نقلوا معرفتهم حول البحار إلى أبناءهم‪ .‬وفيما بدأ دور البحر األساسي في النجاح التجاري يتالشى مع األيام بعد‬ ‫اكتشاف النفط‪ ،‬تطورت عالقة األمة بالبحر لزيادة السعادة والترفيه‪.‬‬

‫تتضمن الكويت اليوم أكبر عدد من القوارب المسجلة‪ ،‬مقارنة‬ ‫مع البلدان الخليجية األخرى ‪ .‬ويزداد ازدحام الشواطئ والطرق‬ ‫البحر ية‪ ،‬والسيما الطرقات المؤدية إلى جزرنا األكثر شعبية‪.‬‬ ‫وقد ترافقت هذه الز يادة مع ز يادة في الثقافة البحر ية‪.‬‬ ‫جد ا‪ ،‬ومعظم‬ ‫فالمسافة بين بحارة اليوم وأسالفهم بعيدة‬ ‫ً‬ ‫أبناء هذا الجيل يبحرون من دون االستفادة من تجارب اآلخر ين ‪.‬‬ ‫تأمل مبادرة «أبحر بأمان » الجديدة في الكويت‪ ،‬التي تحمل‬ ‫توقيع فر يد الفوزان‪ ،‬تصحيح هذه المشكلة وتحسين‬ ‫مستويات المعرفة والسالمة‪.‬‬ ‫ويقول الفوزان‪« :‬البحر شغفي وأر يد أن يتسنى لجميع الناس‬ ‫خوض هذه التجربة لكن بأمان ‪».‬‬ ‫في حين أن استكشاف البحر يشكل متعة إال أن األخطار تالزمه‪.‬‬ ‫ً‬ ‫قصصا عن بحارة كويتيين تعرضوا لحوادث‬ ‫وقد روى الفوزان‬ ‫وإلصابات أدت في بعض األحيان إلى الوفاة ‪ -‬وكل ذلك بسبب‬ ‫نقص معرفتهم أو معرفة زمالئهم البحارة باإلرشادات العامة‬ ‫التي تتعلق بأمن وسالمة اإلبحار‪.‬‬ ‫ويضيف الفوزان‪« :‬في الوقت الحاضر‪ ،‬يستطيع أي كان‬ ‫الحصول على رخصة لإلبحار‪ ».‬فالعملية في غاية السهولة‪.‬‬ ‫ويمكن بسهولة الوصول إلى اإلبحار السر يع‪ -‬ففي حين‬ ‫أن البحر يقدم مساحة واسعة‪ ،‬تفاجأ بالصعوبات التي قد‬ ‫يواجهها قارب أو الزالجة المائية عندما يقودها قليلو الخبرة‪.‬‬ ‫ويشرح‬

‫‪34 35‬‬

‫الفوزان‪:‬‬

‫«يجهل‬

‫بعض‬

‫البحارة‬

‫أمور‬

‫أساسية‬

‫مثل‬

‫معرفة المياه المحلية ومكان‬ ‫والصخور وفهم اإلشارات البحر ية »‪.‬‬

‫وجود‬

‫الشعب‬

‫المرجانية‬

‫وقد عقدت مبادرة «أبحر بأمان » شراكة مع المجموعة العالمية‬ ‫عالمي ا في‬ ‫للتدر يب على اليخوت وهي منظمة معروفة‬ ‫ً‬ ‫مجال التدر يب على اإلبحار المستقل وركوب الزوارق ‪ .‬وتقدم‬ ‫هذه المجموعة معايير التعليم والتدر يب ألصحاب القوارب‬ ‫واليخوت المحترفين والهواة من الرجال والنساء‪.‬‬ ‫ستقو م ا لمجمو عة مع مباد رة « أ بحر بأ ما ن » بتقد يم مقررا ت‬ ‫تد ر يبية لمال ك ا ليخو ت‪ ،‬و ا أل هم أ نهما ستسعيا ن لحصو ل‬ ‫على د عم ا لقطا ع ا لبحري في ا لكويت ‪ .‬و مما ال شك فيه‬ ‫أ ن ا لبيئة ا لبحر ية ا لترفيهية ا لسليمة و ا آل منة تشكل بيئة‬ ‫إ يجا بية أل عما لهم ‪ .‬و قد أ قنع ا لفو زا ن و مباد رة « أ بحر بأ ما ن »‬ ‫ا لتجا ر في و ضع أ همية ا أل ما ن و ا لسال مة على رأ س قا ئمة‬ ‫أ و لو يا تهم ‪.‬‬ ‫ومع تطور‬ ‫جزء ا‬ ‫األولى‬ ‫ً‬ ‫حول كيفية‬

‫المبادرة‪ ،‬ستشكل معدات المالحة من الدرجة‬ ‫من صفقة شراء أي قارب‪ ،‬وستقام دورة تدر يبية‬ ‫قضاء الوقت في الماء بأمان وسالمة‪.‬‬

‫وبصفته بحار شغوف‪ ،‬إن فر يد الفوزان مصمم على مشاركة‬ ‫شغفه مع أكبر عدد ممكن من األشخاص وبطر يقة آمنة إلى‬ ‫أقصى الحدود‪.‬‬ ‫ستتمكنون من لقاء فريد ومعرفة المزيد حول مبادرة «أبحر‬ ‫بأمان» في معرض الكويت لليخوت لعام ‪.2 016‬‬

THE DEALER

Talal Al Sabih

General Manager of Fahad Al Sabih General Trading Co. Fahad Al Sabih General Trading Co. will be participating in Kuwait Yacht Show 2016, and is planning to show a wide range of marine and diving equipment to be revealed for the first time. MEN’S PASSION decided to sit down with Talal Al Sabih, General Manager of Fahad Al Sabih General Trading Co. and here’s what we found out.

What premieres will you be displaying at KYS 2016?

We’re going to show a wide range of marine equipment, as well as inflatable and aluminium boats. However, our main focus will be given over to diving equipment. We will display the latest and the best from Riffe and O.M.E.R. as well as underwater lights, speakers and other specialized accessories.

Why is exhibiting at KYS important to you? What marks this out as a unique show?

The Kuwait Yacht Show is important to us because it displays Kuwaiti companies. Al Sabih Marine have been in business for many years, and it’s important for us to appear at marine shows in Kuwait. What makes KYS unique is that, we know this because we’ve worked with them before, we know how professional the show is and that it meets our own standards.

Kuwait Marine Sector Looking back over the past year, what have been the most significant steps taken forward in the marine sector in Kuwait?

In the past year, the most significant steps forward that the marine sector in Kuwait took is in the field of new technology.

Technology in the marine industry has expanded a lot lately.

For example, there are many marine devices that now connect with smartphones. We’re looking forward to this continuing, and technology continuing to deliver what the customer wants.

What do you look forward to seeing happen in the sector in the next 12 months?

The challenges that lay ahead for 2016 revolve around new products and lines. We are planning to expand into new areas and brands that are not currently available in Kuwait.

Being the first to get your hands on new technology is a challenge in itself. Our Research & Development department is constantly involved in being aware of what’s happening and bringing the best to Kuwait.

Al-Sabih Marine is one of the leading marine equipment companies in Kuwait. Established in 1989 it represents some of the world's finest marine manufacturers which are specialized in boat accessories, kayaks, small boats, diving equipment, inflatable boats, trailer parts, generators, marine airconditioning, electrical equipment, apparel, electric winches, ropes, stainless steel chains and other related products.

‫‪THE DEALER‬‬

‫طالل الصبيح‬

‫مدير عام شركة فهد الصبيح للتجارة العامة‬

‫تستعد ‬ ‪‭‬شركة ‬ ‪‭‬فهد ‬ ‪‭‬الصبيح ‬ ‪‭‬للتجار ة ‬ ‪‭‬العامة ‬ ‪‭‬المشاركة ‬ ‪‭‬في ‬ ‪‭‬معر ض ‬ ‪‭‬الكويت ‬ ‪‭‬لليخوت ‬‪ ،2016‬ومن ‬ ‪‭‬المتوقع ‬ ‪‭‬أ ن ‬ ‪‭‬تقو م‪‭‬‬ ‫‬الشركة ‬ ‪‭‬بعر ض ‬ ‪‭‬مجموعة ‬ ‪‭‬كبير ة ‬ ‪‭‬من ‬ ‪‭‬المعدا ت ‬ ‪‭‬البحرية ‬ ‪‭‬ومعدا ت ‬ ‪‭‬الغطس ‬ ‪‭‬التي ‬ ‪‭‬سيكشف ‬ ‪‭‬عنها ‬ ‪‭‬النقا ب ‬ ‪‭‬للمر ة ‬ ‪‭‬األولى ‪‭.‬‬ ‫‬وفي ‬ ‪‭‬هذ ا ‬ ‪‭‬السيا ق ‬ ‪‭‬التقت ‬ ‪‭‬مجلة‬ ‪ MEN’S‭ ‬P ASSION‭‬مع ‬ ‪‭‬طال ل ‬ ‪‭‬الصبيح ‬ ‪‭‬مدير ‬ ‪‭‬عا م ‬ ‪‭‬شركة ‬ ‪‭‬فهد ‬ ‪‭‬الصبيح ‬ ‪‭‬للتجار ة ‬ ‪‭‬العامة‪‭‬‬ ‫‬وأجر ت ‬ ‪‭‬الحوا ر ‬ ‪‭‬التالي‬‪‭.‬‬

‫ما هي النماذج التي ستعرض للمرة األولى في معرض‬ ‫الكويت لليخوت لعام ‪2 016‬؟‬ ‫سنعرض مجموعة كبيرة من المعدات البحرية والقوارب القابلة‬ ‫للنفخ والقوارب المصنوعة من األلومينيوم‪ .‬لكننا سنركز‬ ‫بشكل أساسي على معدات الغطس‪ .‬وسنعرض آخر االبتكارات‬ ‫من ‪ Rif fe‬و ‪ O.M.E.R‬باإلضافة إلى األضواء ومكبرات الصوت‬ ‫واإلكسسوارات المتخصصة األخرى التي تستخدم تحت الماء‪.‬‬

‫ما أهمية المشاركة في معرض الكويت لليخوت‬ ‫فريدا؟‬ ‫بالنسبة لكم؟ ما الذي يجعل هذا المعرض‬ ‫ً‬ ‫تكمن أهمية معرض الكويت لليخوت في أنه يعرض منتجات‬ ‫الشركات الكويتية‪ .‬وتعمل شركة الصبيح للمعدات البحرية في‬ ‫هذا المجال منذ سنوات طويلة‪ ،‬ويهمنا عرض منتجاتنا في‬ ‫المعارض البحرية في الكويت‪ .‬وينفرد معرض الكويت لليخوت‬ ‫كونه معرض احترافي ويلبي معاييرنا الخاصة‪ ،‬ونحن واثقون من‬ ‫ً‬ ‫معا في السابق‪.‬‬ ‫ذلك ألننا تعاونا‬

‫القطاع البحري في الكويت‬ ‫عند النظر إلى السنوات الماضية‪ ،‬ما هي الخطوات‬ ‫األكثر أهمية التي تم اتخاذها للقيام بالخطوة التالية‬ ‫في القطاع البحري في الكويت؟‬ ‫خالل العام الماضي‪ ،‬تلخصت الخطوة التالية المهمة التي‬

‫‪36 37‬‬

‫تم ا تخاذ ها في ا لقطا ع ا لبحري في ا لكويت في ا بتكا ر‬ ‫خر ا‪ ،‬تو سعت ا لتكنو لو جيا في ا لقطا ع‬ ‫تكنو لو جيا جد يد ة ‪ .‬مؤ ً‬ ‫ا لبحري على نحو كبير‪ .‬على سبيل ا لمثا ل‪ ،‬تم ا بتكا ر عد د‬ ‫من ا أل جهزة ا لبحر ية ا لتي يمكن و صلها با لهو ا تف ا لذ كية‪.‬‬ ‫و نتطلع إ لى متا بعة هذ ه ا لجهو د‪ ،‬و ا بتكا ر ا لتكنو لو جيا‬ ‫لتقد يم ما ير يد ه ا لعميل ‪.‬‬

‫ما هي التطورات التي تتطلعون لها في هذا القطاع‬ ‫خالل األشهر االثني عشر القادمة؟‬ ‫تتمحور التحديات التي سنواجهها في عام ‪ 2016‬حول‬ ‫المنتجات والخطوط الجديدة‪ .‬ونخطط للتوسع في مجاالت‬ ‫حالي ا في الكويت‪ .‬وبما أننا أول‬ ‫وماركات جديدة غير متوفرة‬ ‫ً‬ ‫تحدي ا بحد‬ ‫ذلك‬ ‫يشكل‬ ‫الجديدة‪،‬‬ ‫من اكتسبنا التكنولوجيا‬ ‫ً‬ ‫ذاته‪ .‬وتسعى إدارة البحوث والتطوير في شركتنا باستمرار‬ ‫إلى معرفة ما يحدث وإحضار أفضل المنتجات واالبتكارات‬ ‫إلى الكويت‪.‬‬ ‫تعتبر شركة الصبيح للمعدات البحرية من الشركات الرائدة في مجال‬ ‫المعدات البحرية في الكويت‪ .‬تأسست الشركة في عام ‪ 1989‬وتمثل‬ ‫مجموعة من أفضل صانعي المعدات البحرية في العالم والسيما‬ ‫المتخصصين في إكسسوارات القوارب‪ ،‬والزوارق الجلدية والقوارب‬ ‫الصغيرة ومعدات الغطس والقوارب القابلة للنفخ وأجزاء ومعدات‬ ‫القطر ومولدات الطاقة وتكييف الهواء في المعدات البحرية‬ ‫والمعدات الكهربائية واألجهزة والرافعات الكهربائية والسالسل‬ ‫المصنوعة من الفوالذ المقاوم للصدأ والمنتجات المتصلة األخرى‪.‬‬

THE CLUB

Messing About On The Water with Kuwait Watersports

T

hey sometimes say it is the chance meetings that are the one’s to make the difference.

Abdullah Abdulmohsen Al Mashaan recently started working in Khiran, in the south of Kuwait.

Here, La‘alal Al-Kuwait Real Estate have been quietly creating an ecological masterpiece from previously uninhabitable salt marsh. Thanks to their work, there now exist miles of waterway and beachside real estate, and they have opened a world-class marina to cater for 10 to 40 meter yachts. His work in Khiran also gave rise to a meeting that was to lead to the establishment of Kuwait Watersports. We’ll let Abdullah take it from here…

THE CLUB

It was in Khiran that I met Colin Ralph, a man who brings a wealth of experience with him to the country. His only prior knowledge of Kuwait was that of the Gulf War, he has been surprised by what Kuwait has to offer in terms of sea, access to the sea, wind and weather. He was impressed enough to bring his wife and dog to the country so that they too could share his passion.

Through conversation it transpired that our common bond was that of sailing, sail boats, standup paddle and all things waterborne. Colin is tied up for sixty-plus hours a week setting up the marinas but his wife, Louise, is an avid sailor, windsurfer and fifteen-year watersports professional to boot.

I have learnt so much through sailing and the connection it gives me with the ocean is one I want all Kuwaitis to feel and share. I approached Colin and Louise with my idea, and here we are four months later on the verge of launching Kuwait Watersports.

Colin and Louise have worked throughout the UK, Mediterranean and the Caribbean teaching, managing and running world-class hotels, centers and clubs. I knew they would have the ideas to help bring sailing to the countr y and it transpires they also have the allimpor tant connections.

It all looked too simple at the start; get some boats, watch YouTube and go! However, engaging with these two has taught me about equipment, logistics, site assessment and, probably most importantly, a sailing system. This is a proven scheme that can accommodate youths and adults and teach them all the steps required to get afloat safely and return home in one piece.

The ocean and the wind will challenge you, and where books can teach you it’s experience that will get you through. Out at sea there is virtually no one you can call on, it is you and your equipment. It is this that draws so many to the sport across the globe. No engine, no fuel, no noise. You, the wind, the sea and your boat. After a great days sailing you need nothing more... (other than a hearty feed!)

This is what makes it great. Our vision is to inspire a population. We have the sea on our doorsteps, our ancestors worked from the sea and our conditions are ideal. Statistically Kuwait has good wind for sailing, with a breeze often above 5-6knots, but rarely reaching above 25-30 knots. I can see it in Colin and Louise’s eyes when the wind strength starts moving up. They become restless and when they have broken free, watching them tear up the ocean only inspires me more.

38 39

THE CLUB

Of course anyone can buy a boat, import it and get going but I wanted more. We needed a supplier of good equipment that had the stock, the backup and support that will allow us to bring sailing on a new level to the country. This is a veritable minefield. Compare it to the automotive industry.

GMC or Ford? Toyota or Nissan? This is the same with sailing. It is at this point we can introduce RS Sailing out of the UK. This is a company building a range of boats from the sublime to the ridiculous - and everything in between.

Passionate sailors, not businessmen demanding bottomline profit, run the company. They love sailing; we love sailing; it appeared like the perfect match.

They are innovators and we are looking to initially bring in a range of four boats out of their extensive range, to the countr y. Our main goal is to inspire at grass root level and get children motivated and moving on the water. Of course adults can learn too and we will be catering for their needs also.

The RS Tera is an ISAF (International Sailing Federation) accredited boat. Like the commonly known ‘Optimist’, it is ideal for learning in, but its advantage is the material it is made from. When children are learning to sail they bump and bash boats with one another. While this is fun, the boats quickly become ruined. Using roto-molded Polyethylene the RS Tera is tough, strong and virtually maintenance free. With two rig options depending on the child’s weight and experience, what is not to love about learning in this boat? It looks great, performs great and is easy to cart around. This boat is at home on the race course as well as entertaining young friends at the beach house.

The RS Q’ba is very much like the Tera but for us big kids! Ideal for adults to learn in, this boat has all the characteristics you would expect from a great introduction boat. Again it is made from roto-molded polyethylene so bumps and scrapes are nothing to worry about. Two people can climb aboard and enjoy the journey of learning to sail.

The RS16 Cat. Beach cats are well known to be fun.

Indeed there are ‘cats’ in Kuwait already and Colin and Louise brought the first couple of RS16s to Kuwait. Perfect for blasting around this polyethylene Cat is as quick as a Hobie 16 but with tougher hulls meaning, durability and reduction of down time. It has a lot of options for trapezing and spinnakers, making this a boat to own and learn with over time. Catamarans are known to have quick acceleration and high speeds due to their hull and sail configuration. The RS16 Cat is no different.

The RS Aero is the final boat in our initial line up. The Laser class is world-renowned, it is the Olympic standard and by all accounts not a bad boat. It was, however, designed back in the 1969 and we all know how much the world has changed since then! It is no different with sailing and the RS Aero represents a reflection of this time. The hull weight of a Laser is around 57kg. Compare this to the aero which is just 30kg (lighter than an Optimist!).

THE CLUB

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- Sharq 65574818

- Kuwait City

- Sharq

- Fahaheel International intoptique Optique

THE CLUB

All up and ready to sail the boat is nearly 30kg lighter than a Laser. What does this all mean? Fun fun and fun!

Although not a beginners boat this boat is set to leave smiles of the seasoned sailors faces. You move… it moves.

The more you put in… the more you get out. A simple and clean design, like the Laser, make it manageable by those competent in sailing already.

With these boats we intend to not just sell them to the customer, but to also “be there” for them. Each boat is sold with a buoyancy aid, gloves and a rash vest. We will deliver to your residence, and assemble the boat for you. Finally we will be offering two hours of tuition to get you started.

Perhaps you can sail already and just need to know how to put the boat together. Whatever the requirement we want to help people get the best possible start from their equipment.

We will be offering further lessons, bookable in slots to suit your needs, once you are up and running you will then be able to sail free on the water.

After one year we will visit your boat and run a safety inspection on it. Any parts that are worn, missing or otherwise we will advise you of. Having spares is crucial to keep a boat going - we acknowledge this and will be investing in spares for our fleets. Rest assured quality rope, spare parts and accessories will be available through Kuwait Watersports.

Long term our aim is to bring groups of people together to race and share a passion. Once you have mastered the art

of upwind and downwind sailing why not pitch yourselves against others and the elements. It is fun, physical and beyond exhilarating. Naturally this will lead to a club where we hope to nurture the local talent bring them along and propel them into the regional and international sailing circuits. Through the south of the gulf there are events that attract impressive numbers and it would be great to see this on our shores.

Could we dream of Olympic success, why not? Inspiring a generation is something that we talk about a lot. It’s not just the Olympics but sailing is a year round calendar of events. From yachting to Optimist and everything in between.

Kuwait Water spor ts will also be bringing standup paddle boarding (SUP). This is the fastest growing water spor t in the world right now. It’s ease of access and age range appeal makes it an option for ever yone.

We thought carefully about our supplier as we want a manufacturer who will represent our values. Mistral SUP will be available through Kuwait Water spor ts.

Their range if comprehensive and we will be stocking a number of the boards. SUP is enormous. There are boards to paddle on, boards to race on, boards to do yoga on, windsur f SUP or even boards for you and 8 friends! Like running it is hard work, but through the hardwork comes the pleasure; amplified by the fact you are on the ocean!

Getting dressed for the ocean can be a challenge. In the beginning a pair of shorts and t shirt will do however the more you progress the more you will find the benefit of a good rash vest, or maybe even a wetsuit. We have teamed up with Gul and Crewsaver from the UK who know a thing or two about keeping you warm in the ocean. This means you don’t have to stop when the temperatures drop. Just get in your suit and enjoy the ocean 12 months of the year!

We have also teamed up with Aquaglide for those of us who just want to chill or play. Their range of on water loungers, bouncer and play parks is impressive.

Finally ……it would be naïve to ignore Colin and Louise’s years of experience in running major watersports operations, thus we offer an in-house consulting service for any business wishing to add a professional watersports outfit to their existing brand. They can guide you on equipment selection, site suitability, training and maintenance.

It’s exciting times for Kuwait Watersports and we hope that tackling this venture with the same vigour that we hit the water with, the public will be inspired to get out there and try something new. Throughout the year we will be hosting try sail sessions where you can get a feel for sailing. This means you don’t have to commit to a boat purchase first.

Why not check out our website for the dates and book in.

May the winds blow fair and the sea be kind.

See you on the ocean.

THE CLUB

THE SPORTSMAN

The Free-diver Abdullah Alsabri

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ree-diving – into a mysterious and perhaps daunting world unencumbered by air-tanks and regulators, with the freedom to float, literally, like a fish. The one limiting factor is simply‌ how long can you hold your breath? We met with free-diving instructor and member of FreeDiving Instructors International, Abdullah Alsabri.

THE SPORTSMAN

I first started diving when I was just 5 years old, with my father. Since 2008 I’ve been focusing on free-diving. There are many beautiful places around the world for diving, and my favorite places are Dahab in Egypt and the Bahamas or Florida.

Free-diving means you only have one single breath to dive deep, whereas scuba-diving uses oxygen tanks in order to breathe under water. So, the difference between them is pretty obvious. A free-diver does not have to follow the same rules as other forms of diving to avoid some injuries.

However, free diving has some inherent risks, but it is not as dangerous as scuba diving because everything about it is natural. You breathe natural gases, oxygen and carbon dioxide, whereas scuba-divers breathe a mix of many gases, such as nitrogen, oxygen, and others.

It is not important to be in shape to scuba-dive, however free-diving requires a high level of fitness. To ensure your fitness for free-diving, you should do some stretching, running, and of course practice free-diving. There are some risks that might give a free-diver a problem whilst diving, such as loss of motor control (LMC), black out (BO – i.e. loss of consciousness), and terminal gasp.

Studies reveal that although these risks might happen to a free-diver, they do not have any negative affects on our health afterwards.

The most important way to avoid these risks is by taking a free-diving class. I highly recommend these for everyone that wants to participate in this sport to take a free-diving course with a certified instructor.

One thing that I would consider an essential rule is NEVER EVER DIVE ALONE. You always must have a buddy.

There are world free-diving competitions and Arab competitions, but I have not participated yet because I have not had time to do it. My deepest dive so far was in Florida when I went to 45 meters (150 feet).

Most people learn free-diving to spear fish. It is important to be a good free-diver if you want to spear fish. The logic behind this is clear - because the longer period you stay under water, the higher your chance of catching fish.

The best locations for spearfishing in Kuwait are Omalmaradem Island, Garooh Island, Kubar Island, Alzor, Julaia and many others. If you want to go spearfishing, you need to know which kind of fish you are going for.

Every kind of fish has a migration season. As a spearfisher, you need to know when is the season for this fish.

For example, King Mackerel’s (chanaad) season is winter, so people always go fishing and spearfishing for this fish in winter.

By: Abdullah Alsabri, Free diving instructor with: FII (Free diving Instructors International)

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THE SPORTSMAN

THE LUXE REVIEW FUTURE LEADING PROJECTS

THE LUXE REVIEW Our exclusive guide to the finest from the spheres of horology, automobiles, style, travel, design and much more.

In the Luxe Review we look at the best, and meet the people that are making it happen.

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THE LUXE CARS

The New BMW 7 Series Driving pleasure, luxury and long-distance, comfort redefined

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With the new BMW 7 Series, BMW has redefined what an exclusive, luxurious driving experience looks like in contemporary, pioneering form. Groundbreaking technologies in the areas of lightweight design, powertrains, chassis, operating systems, intelligent connectivity and interior ambience underline its mission to bring together unbeatable driving pleasure and longdistance comfort in a luxury sedan.

THE LUXE CARS

The handing over of the baton from one generation to the next at the top end of BMW’s model line-up sees the brand presenting a raft of innovations unmatched by any of its rivals.

Key factors in enhancing dynamics, efficiency, comfort and safety while on the move are the use of carbon-fibrereinforced plastic (CFRP) in the body structure, engines from the BMW Group’s new generation of power units, the plug-in hybrid system in the new BMW 740e, the Executive Drive Pro active chassis system, the Driving Experience Control switch with ADAPTIVE mode and BMW Laserlight.

Maximising well-being in the rear compartment, meanwhile, are the Executive Lounge feature with massage function and Vitality Programme, the Sky Lounge Panorama glass roof, the Welcome Light Carpet, the Ambient highlight and a smartphone holder with inductive charging station. Standout innovations in operating system and driver assistance technology include the extension of the iDrive system to include a touch display and BMW gesture control, as well as Touch Command, the new BMW Head-Up Display, crossing traffic warning, the steering and lane control assistant, active side collision protection, Surround View with 3D View and the Remote Control Parking system.

Design: stylish presence, assured dynamics, exclusive elegance. The design of the new BMW 7 Series provides an authentic showcase for the car’s character. Harmonious proportions, a strongly controlled surface design and precise lines point to the stylistic confidence, assured dynamics and exclusive elegance at work here. The optimised balance of driving pleasure and long-distance comfort finds clear expression in the unmistakable aura of the luxury sedan, which is available in both standard and long wheelbase variants.

Characteristic features of the interior include generous levels of space accentuated by its horizontal surfaces and lines, the driver-focused cockpit design, the fusion of exquisite materials and precision craftsmanship and the sophisticated functionality of the control and display elements. The M Sport package, the design Pure Excellence package and a BMW Individual Design Composition will be available for the new BMW 7 Series from launch. They underline the car’s dynamic ability, exclusive elegance and luxurious ambience to great effect, and satisfy the diverse expectations of customers around the world.

“At BMW we believe the future can be predicted most effectively if we’re helping to shape it,” explains Adrian van Hooydonk, Senior Vice President BMW Group Design.

“The primary objective in the development of the new car was to create a vision of modern luxury and to exceed our customers’ expectations. In BMW’s eyes, modern luxury is rooted in the most advanced technologies and extremely fine attention to detail. This generation of the BMW 7 Series is the most luxurious, most comfortable and – all round – the best car we have ever built in this class.”

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THE LUXE CARS

The Next Step in the Industrial Revolution Industrie 4.0 – Digitalisation at Mercedes-Benz

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he automobile industry is facing fundamental changes. Alongside the electrification of the powertrain, autonomous driving and the development of new markets, it is above all digitalisation that is driving this process of change. This combination of the physical and digital is often referred to as “Industrie 4.0�. Networking the entire value chain in real time is already more than just a vision for Mercedes-Benz. And the focus here is always on people - customers and employees.

THE LUXE CARS

“All major trends in the automobile industry are already driven by digitalisation, or are driving it themselves. Our aim is to be the world’s leading, most innovative automobile manufacturer when it comes to digital technologies, too,” says Dr. Dieter Zetsche, Chairman of the Board of Management of Daimler AG and Head of Mercedes-Benz Cars.

“At Mercedes-Benz, we use the term ‘Industrie 4.0’ to describe the digitalisation of the entire value chain, from design and development to production, where the term has its origin, and finally to sales and service,” says Markus Schäfer, Member of the Divisional Board Mercedes-Benz Cars, Manufacturing and Supply Chain Management, Daimler AG. “For us at Daimler, there is no question that the digital revolution will fundamentally change our industry.

This applies to the methods by which we develop, plan and produce our vehicles. It applies to the way we make contact with our customers. And not least, it can be experienced through our products themselves.”

The potential of the digital revolution is huge: If man, machine and industrial processes are intelligently networked, individual products of high quality can be created more rapidly, and production and manufacturing costs can be made competitive. Flexibility is another reason why MercedesBenz is actively helping to shape the digital revolution: The worldwide demand for passenger cars, commercial vehicles and mobility concepts is increasing. At the same time, the requirements of customers around the globe are becoming increasing diverse. While Mercedes-Benz was able to cover most customer requirements with just three basic passenger car models in the 1970s, there are now ten times as many.

At the Sindelfingen plant, for example, it is extremely rare for two identical examples of the S-Class to leave the production lines. There is also an increasingly wide range of drive variants – alongside petrol and diesel engines, hybrid and fully electric drive systems are increasingly popular.

And the innovation cycles are increasingly shorter. All this culminates in the vision that automobile production will change from large-scale to “one-off” production, where every car is built to individual customer requirements.

From purely an automobile manufacturer to a networked provider of mobility services The revolution is fully underway: With over one million users, the mobility service car2go is the world’s largest car-sharing business. The moovel app shows users how a wide variety of means of transport can be combined to get from A to B efficiently – whether by car2go, ride-sharing, taxi or by public transport.

Mercedes-Benz has consolidated all these services under one sub-brand – Mercedes me, which makes MercedesBenz reachable at any time.

The portfolio extends from booking a service appointment to individual networking with the customer’s own vehicle and personally configured financial services. Customers are also offered packages that go well beyond the car itself, e.g. lifestyle activities and entertainment.

The next E-Class – intelligently developed, intelligently produced “Digital natives” is the term used for people who have grown up in the digital world. The future E-Class, the 213 series, is also a “digital native”: from development to sales, digitalisation has made its mark on this series in all phases and areas. Digital solutions such as the networking of safety and assistance systems help to ensure the E-Class is the most intelligent saloon in its segment. Numerous innovations make it possible to drive semi-autonomously on motorways and country roads, and to enter and leave tight parking spaces by remote control using a smartphone app. Car-to-X communication provides early warning of dangers that lie ahead. Sophisticated radio technology turns the smartphone into a vehicle key.

When production of the next E-Class commences, numerous elements from the “smart factory” toolbox will already come into use. These include e.g.

• Augmented reality: Here the actual status is visually overlaid on the design specification on a monitor. Deviations are immediately apparent. This procedure is used for factory planning, during assembly testing using virtual components and for the manufacture and commissioning of equipment components and production facilities

• Virtual assembly: Just as the movement control of a games console is able to imitate golf or tennis strokes, virtual assembly installs parts in a vehicle with amazing realism. By testing with an avatar, experienced employees can assess how the relevant job might best be carried out, or whether design changes are necessary.

• Digital process chain: The buildability of the vehicle is already verified at an early stage in the product creation process. This is ensured by the use of digital methods to represent a digital production process chain.

• 360°networking (body-in-white): The complex network of 87 body-in-white production systems with 252 programmable logic controllers, 2400 robots and 42 technologies (spot welding, bonding, laser welding, mechanical joining etc.) for the 213 series is linked by approx. 50,000 intelligent network participants (IP addresses).

• Human-Robot cooperation: A lightweight robot on a mobile carriage is used to calibrate the head-up display. It carries the calibration camera on a lightweight GFRP arm and can calibrate both right and left-hand drive vehicles by onesided access. Previously calibration was carried out by two permanently installed robots behind a protective fence.

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THE LUXE CARS

King Of The Hill Range Rover

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VAutobiography is positioned at the top of a comprehensively revised Range Rover line-up for the 2016 model year. Key updates extend to more efficient and powerful petrol and turbodiesel engines, all-new convenience features including a Gesture Tailgate, Automatic Access Height, improved Surround Camera System and enhanced smartphone connectivity with a revised suite of Land Rover InControl™ technologies.

THE LUXE CARS

More Performance, More Efficiency A selection of key updates provide Range Rover’s acclaimed powertrains with even more performance and efficiency than before, with all models meeting strict new EU6 emissions regulations where applicable. 3.0-litre TDV6, SDV6 Hybrid and 4.4-litre SDV8 turbodiesel derivatives are all available, along with 3.0-litre V6 Supercharged and 5.0-litre V8 Supercharged petrol engines. All models are equipped with a highly efficient stopstart system, and a ZF eight-speed automatic transmission for an unrivalled combination of fast, smooth gear changes and optimised efficiency.

V6 Supercharged The most powerful V6 engine ever fitted to a Range Rover debuts for the 2016 model year (market dependent). Building on the all-aluminium 3.0-litre V6 Supercharged engine with its laser-drilled injectors, two-stage oil pump and diamond-like coating for pistons and gudgeon pins, Land Rover engineers have carried out detailed calibration changes to achieve a potent 380PS and increases of 40PS and 10Nm. With maximum torque available from just 3500rpm and a broad powerband, the Range Rover V6 Supercharged provides even more effortless in-gear acceleration coupled with outstanding levels of refinement. Acceleration from 0-100km/h (also improves by 0.1 to 7.3sec. Despite the hike in performance, efficiency is equally impressive with combined fuel economy of 10.7 litres per 100km and CO2 emissions of 248g/km.

Enhanced Technology Land Rover has optimised convenience and technology features across the Range Rover portfolio for 2016 model year.

A new Surround Camera System, hands-free Gesture Tailgate, Automatic Access Height and even more advanced InControl™ connected-car technologies make the luxurious Range Rover more versatile than ever before.

Surround Camera System A new Surround Camera System creates a far sharper and clearer image on the central touchscreen display. A reversing camera automatically displays the view behind the vehicle when reverse gear is engaged; when surround view is selected, the images from each camera combine to create an overhead view of the vehicle – a feature that is particularly useful when manoeuvring in confined spaces. An enhanced rear-camera wash operating in conjunction with the rear wash-wipe function ensures excellent visibility, no matter how harsh the conditions.

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THE LUXE CARS

Gesture Tailgate

Performance Optimised Tyres

Range Rover’s powered electric tailgate now integrates handsfree functionality, enabling tailgate operation even when a driver’s hands are full. Simply moving a foot beneath the rear bumper is all that’s required to open or close the tailgate as desired. The proximity sensors are located on the sides of the rear bumper, rather than the centre, allowing the tailgate to be conveniently operated from the kerbside. This feature is also fully compatible with a tow bar, so Range Rover’s exceptional 3500kg towing capacity is therefore unaffected.

For customers wishing to optimise Range Rover’s highly responsive chassis still further, ‘performance optimised’ tyres will be optionally available for the first time*. Available exclusively for 22-inch applications (exclusions for 550PS derivatives & Hybrid), the Dunlop QuattroMaxx tyres improve dynamic grip, steering precision and driver reward in both wet and dry road conditions. When specified on SVAutobiography derivatives, Dunlop QuattroMaxx tyres make the most powerful Range Rover ever produced even more agile and rewarding to drive. Despite the dynamic characteristics of these tyres’, offroad capability remains highly impressive.

Automatic Access Height Range Rover’s driver-adjustable access height function becomes fully automatic for 2016 model year, with Automatic Access Height immediately operational once the transmission is in Park (P). A range of settings is provided, depending on vehicle status. When the ignition is switched off or the driver’s seatbelt is removed, the vehicle automatically lowers by 35mm to aid entry and exit. Should any door handle be activated, the height decreases by an additional 15mm for enhanced convenience. The total time from switching the ignition off or removing seatbelt to achieving a maximum ride height reduction of 50mm is just three seconds. The vehicle automatically returns to its optimised ride height at speeds 15km/h.

All Terrain-Progress Control Land Rover’s innovative ATPC system was initially introduced on TDV6, SCV6 and V8 Supercharged Range Rover derivatives but All-Terrain Progress Control (ATPC) now extends to SDV8 models (Must be specified with dual-range transmission and Terrain Response® 2 on all models). The advanced technology makes Range Rover’s world-renowned off-road capability more accessible than ever before.

Additional Capability – On and Offroad

Operational from 1.8km/h to 30km/h in forward and reverse gears, ATPC allows an ultra-low creep speed to be set using the steering wheel-mounted cruisecontrol interface when stationary or when the vehicle is in motion.

Range Rover is world-renowned for its unparalleled breadth of capability, both on- and off-road. Its capability increases still further in 2016 with the introduction of 22-inch Dunlop QuattroMaxx ‘performance focused’ tyres for increased onroad performance together with impressive off-road capability. All-Terrain Progress Control (ATPC) also debuts on SDV8 derivatives.

This allows the driver to concentrate purely on steering the vehicle over and around obstacles, while it maintains a constant speed that may otherwise be difficult to achieve over very challenging terrain. By reducing driver distractions and optimising traction in this way, ATPC enhances off-road capability and safety. ATPC can be overridden by simply pressing the brake or accelerator.

THE LUXE CARS

Dubai International Motor Show Wrap 2015

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ive days of motoring highlights wound to a close following the final day of the Dubai International Motor Show held at the Dubai World Trade Centre. Bumper crowds filed through the doors each day to soak in the Motoring Nostalgia Museum which featured 80 classic cars from the 1950s to the 80s as well as the many family attractions on offer and to admire - or even in a few cases - to place orders for some of the most exotic, multi-million dirham cars available anywhere in the world.

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THE LUXE CARS There was strong demand right across the board including the top end where the likes of Rolls-Royce, Bentley, Aston Martin and W Motors enjoyed healthy traffic that helped fill the order books.

Arab supercar company, W Motors revealed its new AED6.6million Fenyr Supersport to the world’s media at the preview earlier this week.

“Our new Fenyr Supersport is mostly targeted at the GCC territories and we have received a lot of solid enquiries not just for it but also the AED12.5 million Lykan already on sale.

We have also been discussing dealership requests in the region, so we are delighted with the results from the 2015 Motor Show,” the CEO of W Motors, Mr Ralph Debbas said.

Rolls-Royce revealed its new convertible, the Dawn, and has been busy fielding enquiries for its newest model all week.

“Rolls-Royce as a company doesn’t sell cars from motor shows but we have been very encouraged by the response.

We have been in negotiation with 15 people on the stand this week who have asked us to call them back, so we consider this a very positive show,” Regional Sales Manager for RollsRoyce Motor Cars Ltd, Mr Faisal Aawar said.

With 85,000 square metres of floor space, the 13th running of the show is the largest held to date and was officially opened

by His Highness Sheikh Hamdan Bin Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the Crown Prince of Dubai on Tuesday.

Regional and international media visiting from China, Australia and the United Kingdom reported on the 18 global launches, 139 regional reveals and 16 concept cars which were mixed among the 600 new models on display in the five halls.

General Motors chose Dubai for its most significant global product debut when it revealed the XT5 Crossover SUV to the world. It was the first time a new Cadillac had its global launch outside of the United States.

Ford played its trump card when it unveiled the stunning GT supercar that heralds the return of the marque to the LeMans 24-Hour race next year after a break of more than 40 years with the help of Youtube and Gymkhana sensation, Ken Block.

While the car technically remains a concept with no price announced, it didn’t stop 30 people from wanting to place an order including one gent who offered a AED1million cash deposit to secure the first car.

The President of the Automobile and Touring Club of the UAE, Dr. Mohammed ben Sulayem said the show was becoming a bigger player on the international stage as he toured the stands on Friday night.

“It’s been a great show and I congratulate the organisers,” Dr. Ben Sulayem said. “I have to thank them for putting on such a great show. I remember when the Dubai Show was near the former Metropolitan hotel and to see it now at such an international standard makes me very proud.”

THE LUXE CARS

The James Bond star cars from the latest 007 movie, SPECTRE, were together for the first time with Jaguar showing its C-X75 villain car and Land Rover displaying its Range Rover Sport SVR that came straight from the set while across the aisle, Aston Martin had Bond’s very own DB10 Sports Coupé used in the movie.

Aston Martin also showed off its AED11 million Vulcan track car that will now be modified for the road based on the interest it has received from Middle Eastern visitors at the show.

“There will only ever be 24 Vulcans worldwide but from that, now will be a small number of road versions because that’s where we have had the most interest during the show,” said David McDowall, Aston Martin Dubai’s General Manager.

“All the enquiries have come out of the Motor Show and we have four very interested clients from the UAE but there has also been interest from other GCC Nationals as well,” Mr McDowall added.

Bentley’s AED955,000 Bentayga SUV was one of the show’s highlights and while orders have been taken from as far back as 2012 when the concept was first shown, filling the first year’s allocation, demand on the stand was still strong despite a delivery now that stretches into 2017.

Giving it a village atmosphere, a live band performed on stage with music from across all the eras of motoring represented, while visitors enjoyed street food from the several roadside diners parked up along the outer edges.

“This year’s Dubai International Motor Show has exceeded all our expectations with exceptional footfall traffic through the Motoring Nostalgia Museum every day as well as on the new car stands,” said Trixie LohMirmand, Senior Vice President, Exhibitions & Events Management, Dubai World Trade Centre.

“The family involvement this year with so many outdoor activities and entertainment ensured that there was always something for everyone.”

Careers in motorsport, tips on off-road driving and how to restore a classic car were just some of the topics on offer at the Ignition Talks Live forum presented by Motoring Middle East. Fan interaction was the key as visitors chipped in with no shortage of questions for the panel of speakers that assembled on stage each night.

A strong emphasis on family entertainment included a AED300 million display of rare and classic cars from the 1950s to the ‘80s assembled for the first time under one roof with the inaugural Motoring Nostalgia Museum.

Motorcyclists were well represented with the Bikers Lounge that not only offered a place to store helmets and riding gear but also featured live airbrush paintings of custom bikes and helmets and a Mission Impossible photo opportunity with a classic motorcycle for the kids. The final day also played host to the Dubai Distinctive Number Plates Public Auction by the Roads & Transport Authority (RTA) in the Al Multaqua Ballroom for 110 unique number plates with distinctive numbers.

More than 80 exotics were gathered together on loan from the President of the ATCUAE, Dr. Mohammed ben Sulayem, the Sharjah Classic Cars Club, Tomini Classics and private owners.

The 2015 Dubai International Motor Show is supported by Show partners AC Delco, Alienware, Autopro, Dell, Cooper Tires, ENOC, Mazda, RTA and Swiss Tourism.

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THE LUXE WATCHES

The True Second

Geophysic - The milestone collection from Jaeger-LeCoultre

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enowned for its horological mastery and its creative talent, Jaeger-LeCoultre now shares the fruits of its expertise with a broader public. This is why it is introducing an original collection with a pure, uncluttered design, driven by a new Haute Horlogerie calibre encapsulating the inventive spirit of the Manufacture. Geophysic® line reveals its gripping story, so that we can better tell our own.

The first glance reveals a clean-cut design that is the epitome of elegance and equilibrium. Each model in the Geophysic® line features several layers of meaning. It gradually unleashes a powerful and innovative horological content expressed through classic characteristics. This refined and contemporary creation asserts its masculine nature in a number of subtle ways.

The collection is named after a watch that belongs both to universal history and to the heritage of the Manufacture. In 1958, the International Geophysical Year, Jaeger-LeCoultre created a chronometer for scientists on mission. Capable of withstanding the magnetic fields of the North Pole while losing nothing of its formidable precision, its overriding characteristic was extreme resistance.

The Grande Maison is now choosing to revive this legendary name in two models blending aesthetic elegance, technical sophistication and 21st century user friendliness: the Geophysic® True Second® and the Geophysic® Universal Time.

Refinement and discernment

Nothing that Jaeger-LeCoultre does is governed by exclusively external considerations. This is demonstrated by the case of the Geophysic® True Second® watch which measures exactly 39.6 millimetres, an elegant and reassuring diameter confirming its cultural roots in the field of Haute Horlogerie, and the choice of which was determined by a quest to find the perfect size enabling the watch to express perfect harmony.

Geophysic® explores the subtle nuances of contemporary classicism, reinforced by the traditional hands reflecting the codes of the Vallée de Joux as well as the linear hourmarkers. The design of the case in turn reveals another facet of its personality through finishes worthy of the most precious Jaeger-LeCoultre models.

THE LUXE WATCHES

The lugs do not meet the case middle with a gentle curve, but rather with a decisive angle expressing strength and confidence. Their sides are polished to accentuate their sleek silhouette. In becoming better acquainted with the watch, the observer realises that its bezel slightly overlaps a tiny part of the case and lugs, thereby creating an extremely pure overall aesthetic. The case-back is screwed in, like that of the 1958 model, so as to ensure greater water resistance. This flowing visual effect is enhanced by the fact that the eye does not linger on any screws, while the watch features the inherent reliability of a system traditionally used to equip diver’s watches. Finally, the case middle also echoes the inspirational original with its extremely dynamic Super-Luminova®* dots that enable easy read-off even in the dark. The balanced, refined and unostentatious tone is set in subtle touches, leaving plenty of scope for the reactions that this exceptional watch unfailingly provokes.

A new collection gets a new high-precision calibre The movements driving the Geophysic® collection, automatic Jaeger-LeCoultre Calibres 770 and 772, are synonymous with high precision and mechanical beauty. These calibres called upon the talents of the most highly specialised engineers of the Research & Development division within the Manufacture.

The strength of their expertise and their imagination drives their authentic capacity for innovation.

The latter is in this instance expressed by an atypical balance wheel featuring a non-circular configuration that required lengthy research in order to reduce air friction. Named the Gyrolab®, this device was initially developed in a laboratory version back in 2007 to equip the Master Compressor Extreme Lab 1 watch. It took eight years to transition from this confidential version to one that could be incorporated into an entire watch line. Geophysic® is the first collection to enjoy the full benefits of this key breakthrough and its determining influence on the precision of the watch.

This precision is also expressed by the true seconds system that causes the seconds hand to move forwards while “beating the second”, meaning by performing a jump every second.

This is no ordinary feat for a mechanical movement, and one that does not disturb the smooth running of the watch. True seconds mechanism involves an extremely sophisticated construction whose effectiveness is expressed on the dial by a pleasantly rhythmical reading of the seconds. This specific expertise, which has been mastered by the Maison since the 19th century, testifies to the authentic instrument-worthy nature of the Geophysic®.

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THE LUXE WATCHES

For Jaeger-LeCoultre, mechanical performance is meaningless if it is not matched by beauty. At first glance, the calibre reveals its relationship to the characteristic line of automatic movements from the Grande Maison. The gaze then becomes aware of the more generous volumes, and of the powerful proportions of the bridges. These broad surfaces provide ample space for a forceful interpretation of the Côtes de Genève motif. The infinite time, energy and patience devoted to the finishes of the Geophysic® collection are epitomised in the way this calibre catches the light.

Golden automatic rotor for Geophysic watch.

The remarkable calibres driving the Geophysic® line are the first to feature an oscillating weight – crafted from a single block of solid gold – bearing the ‘anchor’ motif (itself echoing the shape of a escapement lever) that is also the Jaeger-LeCoultre logo. Strategically cut out and more open than a classic weight, it enables the eye to reconstruct the movement that it generously reveals in the course of its rotations.

These calibres exude a resolutely technical aura, much like a car engine built to ensure optimal performance. They deliver a degree of reliability and precision certified by the rigorous “1000 Hours Control” that Jaeger-LeCoultre is the only Manufacture to implement. Despite the sophisticated nature of these mechanisms, they are both functional and easily adjustable by merely positioning the crown. Here, JaegerLeCoultre transposes the philosophy of the namesake historical model into a resolutely contemporary watch.

GEOPHYSIC® TRUE SECOND® WATCH DISCRETION AND EXCELLENCE The Geophysic® True Second® radiates the kind of stage presence that is the exclusive preserve of great classics.

Decoration of the bridge for Geophysic movement.

Its finely grained dial lends added texture and further accentuates the readability of the information provided.

The hands and hour-markers stand out clearly against their backdrop. Driven as ever by a constant concern for detail, Jaeger-LeCoultre has chosen hands in Super-Luminova® as well as finely grooved hour-markers that further enliven the dial with their reflections shimmering in all directions.

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The vibrant, graphic Geophysic® True Second® watch comes in steel or pink gold versions, and is adjusted in an extremely intuitive manner. The crown in its neutral position winds the movement, while position 1 serves to set the jumping hours corresponding to the city where the wearer is currently located, as well as the date, and position 2 controls the hours and minutes. The Geophysic® is in all respects an ideal companion for those who are frequently on the move.

GEOPHYSIC® UNIVERSAL TIME WATCH THE WORLD WITHIN REACH The world map on the face of the Geophysic® Universal Time, equipped with Jaeger-LeCoultre Calibre 772, exercises an almost hypnotic fascination. So distant and yet so close, the continents stretch out like an open travel invitation. The sea is depicted by subtly graded lacquered shades of blue, while the engraved continents are graced with a magnificent sunburst finish. The endlessly admirable planisphere remains in a fixed position, which means it can host the hour-markers. The compelling Geophysic® Universal Time enables simultaneous readings of the time in all 24 time zones by means of its mobile disc.

Gyrolab - hairspring assembly on Geophysic caliber 770.

The city disc with its perfectly readable names is fixed so as to help users get their bearings. The eye soon becomes accustomed to seeing London at 6 o’clock and Hong Kong at 2 o’clock. Epitomising an absolute determination to promote simplification, the time is adjusted via the crown and no longer with a pushbutton. Once the universal time has been set, there is no need to adjust it while crisscrossing the world. Travellers need only adjust their own time. Local time is automatically adjusted simply by moving the hour hand forwards or backwards, independently of the minutes and seconds to as to avoid any loss of precision.

Both clever and functional, the Geophysic® Universal Time with its 41.6 mm case is available in steel or pink gold.

Whether in True Second® or Universal Time versions, the Geophysic® conveys a constant intensity. It cultivates an attitude entirely in tune with the times. The message of the Geophysic® is one of simplicity and complexity co-existing in perfect harmony.

Hand-fitting on Geophysic Universal Time watch.

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Jaeger-LeCoultre’s Geophysic Inventive Spirit Encapsulated

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ntroduced in 1958, the Geophysic was considered a true watchmaking benchmark. When revived in 2014 the new Geophysic 1958, with its pure, simple design, driven by a new, fine watchmaking caliber, encapsulated the inventive spirit of the Manufacture. The Geophysic line carries its own gripping story. Recently in town was Jaeger LeCoultre’s Regional Brand Manager, Marc de Panafieu. He shared the story with us, as well as his thoughts on what makes a good watch and the joy of doing business in Kuwait.

Marc de Panafieu - Brand Director for the Middle East Marc de Panafieu was born and raised in Paris. After graduating from the l’École Supérieure de Commerce de Paris in 2001, Marc moved to Dubai in 2004 where he has held several positions in the luxury sector. In September 2014 he was appointed Jaeger LeCoultre’s Regional Brand Director for the Middle East.

Jaeger-LeCoultre’s Middle East regional office is in Dubai.

From here Marc oversees commercial activities in the Middle East region plus India, Turkey, the Levant, Greece and part of North Africa.

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What’s the story of the Geophysic?

It is not strictly new - the original Geophysic was launched in 1958. Many countries came together and declared that 1958 would be the Geophysic year – effectively “the year of science”. They decided to collaborate and combine their knowledge in order to accelerate the development of new experiments. One of the results of their efforts was JaegerLeCoultre’s Geophysic watch. This was created specifically to mark the journey of an American submarine that crossed from the Atlantic to the Pacific Ocean by travelling under the polar ice cap. One of the specific complexities of the watch was that it had to be antimagnetic.

What’s new in the revival of the Geophysic line?

Our clients were interested in knowing more about this watch.

This year, we came up with two new models in gold and steel.

The first is the ‘Geophysic True Second’. At the heart of this is the new in-house made Jaeger-LeCoultre caliber 770 automatic movement has a ‘true second’ complication. This means that even though the movement is mechanical, the second hand ticks. This is more traditionally known as a ‘deadbeat seconds’ hands, but since the term deadbeat does sound exactly fancy, Jaeger-LeCoultre chose the more artful name of ‘True Seconds’ for the new movement collection, a collection that begins with the caliber 770.

What about the other model?

It is called the Universal Time. This model adds a world time complication, a world map dial, and a larger case size. The ease of use is what sets this watch apart, but it is unfortunately sold out in Kuwait.

What is special about the design?

It is special because with it we stay true to our heritage.

Everyone will recognize that this watch is a tribute to the 1958 line, however its design is modern.

How do you maintain a balance between creating something innovative and staying true to your heritage?

That’s a very good question. The secret is in the manufacture

– in our factory there is a mix of generations of both old and young people working together - I think gives great balance.

We have always retained talent and skills in-house which I also believe is a good reason for our success.

How does Jaeger-LeCoultre select the perfect market for a specific watch or line?

There is no one line that corresponds to a market or one market that corresponds to a line – people travel a lot which tends to blur borders and limits. It is very hard to say that “this nationality likes this model” unless you are offering trends. We have customers for all our lines. I can say that in the Middle East, people have a greater passion for round and large watches compared to Europe and Asia.

How do you perceive watch collectors’ level of awareness in Kuwait?

The level is advanced in Kuwait – it is always at the forefront of the economic revolution and economic power. I believe there is a high level of knowledge compared to other regions. We also believe that it is our responsibility to teach our clients about our lines and to explain the heritage, the technique and craftsmanship, and it is very hard to find people who are sensitive to these values. There is more than just information in the timepiece – it is the beauty of the timepiece on the wrist, the craftsmanship and the value of passing it through generations.

Jaeger LeCoultre has dedicated a special area on its website for collectors - Le Club. What are its benefits?

Le Club includes exclusive services, information and benefits as well as engaging watch collectors and people interested in getting involved in discussions about the brand, and also other interesting topics such as astronomy for example. We have not decided the points of discussion or the frequency yet, our goal is to connect with our customers.

Will there be any special editions for the Kuwait market in particular?

Next year we will be launching a special edition in Kuwait. It will commemorate two very important events for the nation, and it will only be available in Kuwait.

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Never Stand Still A. Lange & Söhne

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he reunification of Germany 25 years ago created the prerequisites for a new start of A. Lange & Söhne. This anniversary is a welcome occasion for a look forward.

the establishment of the new Lange manufactory and four years later in the magnificent debut of the first new collection. After the successful start, the company evolved steadily and systematically.

But in particular, it was able to preserve the pioneering spirit of the early days and build its future on this momentum.

Elevated to icon status, the LANGE 1 contributed most to the ascent of the Saxon company. And the concurrent launch of the TOURBILLON “Pour le Mérite” with its unique fusée-and-chain transmission definitively positioned A. Lange & Söhne as a top contender in the domain of haute horlogerie. In 2003, when it began to produce its own balance springs, Lange impressed the watchmaking world by demonstrating its intention to persistently and sustainably broaden its repository of know-how.

“The train of events is a train unrolling its rails ahead of itself. The river of time is a river sweeping its banks along with it.” These two quotes from Robert Musil’s centennial novel “The Man Without Qualities” deliver an apt description of the situation in Germany in the autumn of 1990. The year of reunification brought with it a profound sense of awakening paired with uncertainty.

Unfathomable opportunities opened up. The challenge was to make the right decision at the right time.

The balance spring is the beat controller of a watch and determines its accuracy. It is al-ways in motion. The small yet crucial component became the manufactory’s talisman.

“Never stand still” is the message it delivers. For Lange CEO Wilhelm Schmid, it means that “we are on a constant quest for innovation and improvement, because that’s what it takes to further expand our leadership position.” A. Lange & Söhne constantly inspires the realm of precision watchmaking with complicated and refined design approaches. The first outsize date display in a regularly produced wristwatch was followed by further milestones: The zero-reset mechanism, a double-rattrapante chronograph, a one-month calibre with a patented constant-force escapement, the first stop-seconds device for the tourbillon, a precisely jumping numerals display, an orbital moon-phase display, and – just out – the first combination of a jumping numerals display with a decimal minute repeater.

This also applied to Walter Lange’s plan for a new set up of A. Lange & Söhne after the fall of the Berlin Wall. There were no blueprints or “how-to” guides for achieving the ambitious goal.

Totally new approaches and ideas were needed. On 7 December 1990, imagination, courage, and determination culminated in

Twenty-five years after it was re-established, A. Lange & Söhne presents itself as a brand that has no intention of resting on its traditions and achievements but instead regards precision watchmaking as a perpetual challenge. It relies on its values as a compass that keeps it on a course to success.

The new LANGE 1 stands for the success and for the future of A. Lange & Söhne.

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Panerai Radiomir 1940 at Watches & Wonders

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ith its timeless design and the sophisticated technical solutions created by the new Manufacture in Neuchâtel, the Radiomir 1940 is the main focus of the new Panerai collection presented at Watches & Wonders 2015.

References to history, contemporary high-end watchmaking, Italian design and Swiss manufacture combine to create unique and immediately recognisable timepieces, to be presented to the public in an international preview at the main Asian exhibition of high-end watches, taking place in Hong Kong from 30 September to 3 October 2015. The Radiomir 1940 is the watch which recalls a fundamental moment in the history of Panerai: the transformation of the traditional cushion case of the first Radiomir (1936) into the imposing Luminor 1950 case, fitted with the iconic crown protecting device. This transition came about to meet the needs of the Italian Navy, which wanted to provide its commandos with a water-resistant watch, that was extremely robust and mechanically reliable, with a dial that would be perfectly legible even under very poor lighting conditions in the dark and underwater: the characteristics which made the Panerai watch the first military diver’s watch in history.

The lines of the Radiomir 1940 illustrate the exemplary purity and simplicity of the Panerai design, a simplicity which is the result of a complex process of design and manufacture. The orderliness of the form and appearance of both the case and the dial is closely linked to the function which the watch was to fulfil. The equilibrium arises from a design in which high quality materials and technical perfection made any decorative details superfluous.

The design of the Panerai watch is an example of the international style in the Thirties and Forties. The emergence of the Modern Movement had already revolutionized architecture and design, and Italy’s significant contribution to this revolution was due to the architects and designers who took part in the remarkable phenomenon of Italian rationalism. Thanks to these masters, in the 1930s and 1940s timeless masterpieces were created in Italy, objects and buildings which communicate purity, knowledge and wisdom, in the best tradition of the Italian style and in perfect harmony with what was happening in the rest of the world. Like other icons of its time, the Radiomir 1940 is a classic of modernity which, many decades after its creation, continues to fascinate enthusiasts of watchmaking and design.

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Bell & Ross at Only Watch

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R 01 SKULL BRONZE TOURBILLON: this unique complication, which brings a metal from prehistory into the modern age in a Steampunk* style, was offered by Bell & Ross as part of the Only Watch auction.

Evoking the treasure chests of legend, the watch was auctioned in aid of the Association MonĂŠgasque contre les Myopathies (AMM) [Monaco Association against Muscular Dystrophy], and presented in a box made from precious wood. In the centre of the lid, a glass dome will allow admirers to gaze into the heart of the legend and marvel at this unique watch.

The 6th edition of this biannual charity auction of unique timepieces, in aid of research into Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy, was held in Geneva in November 2015. The collection was unveiled in Monaco at the Monaco Yacht Show, which ran during September 2015. (*) A retro-Futuristic cultural movement.

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The Martian at Only Watch Hamilton Watches back on an epic journey

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amilton Watches, known for their leading role in the worlds of aviation and cinema, as well as their innovative and precise timekeeping expertise, returned to the big screen this fall, in 20th Century Fox’s epic adventure, The Martian.

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The Martian During a manned mission to Mars, Astronaut Mark Watney (Matt Damon) is presumed dead after a fierce storm and left behind by his crew. But Watney has survived and finds himself stranded and alone on the hostile planet. With only meagre supplies, Watney must draw upon his ingenuity, wit and spirit to subsist and find a way to signal to Earth that he is alive. Millions of miles away, NASA and a team of international scientists work tirelessly to bring the Martian home, while his crewmates concurrently plot a daring, if not impossible, rescue mission.

As these stories of incredible bravery unfold, the world comes together to root for Watney’s safe return. Based on a bestselling novel, and helmed by master director Ridley Scott, The Martian features a star-studded cast that includes Jessica Chastain, Kristen Wiig, Kate Mara, Michael Pena, Jeff Daniels, Chiwetel Ejiofor, and Donald Glover.

Reliable timekeeping is crucial not only for Hamilton Watches but also for the leading character in the film, scientist Mark Watney.

(Matt Damon). Every second counts and time means survival, so the obvious timepiece chosen to fit such a challenging role is the military-inspired Hamilton BeLOWZERO. This pitch black Hamilton timepiece is a helpful tool for Watney to pull off his mission in such extreme and dangerous circumstances. It features four octagonal bold screw tops around the watch case and a sporty black rubber strap with a double-holed buckle, ensuring a secure fit on the wrist. The Hamilton BeLOWZERO’s rugged and robust high-tech design strike a perfect balance to Watney’s pioneering spirit and need for precision.

The action adventure The Martian also features other signature Hamilton pieces worn by additional cast members: The X-Wind Limited Edition can be seen on the wrist of Rick Martinez (Michael

Peña) and the Pilot Pioneer Aluminum is worn by Commander Melissa Lewis (Jessica Chastain) and Beth Johanssen (Kate Mara). Inspired by Hamilton’s earliest timepieces, the pocket watches which were originally designed to meet the needs of U.S. railroad timekeeping in 1892, the RailRoad Auto Chrono, is worn by Chris Beck (Sebastain Stan). As the crew plan their incredible mission to bring the Martian home while wearing the above-mentioned Hamilton timepieces, we recognize once again the spirit of precision and reliability, which are great attributes equally shared by Hamilton Watches!

This ”starring” role in The Martian is the latest in over 450 movie placements for Hamilton. The first came more than 60 years ago when the brand’s watches first appeared in The Frogmen. Since then, Hamilton has worked closely with costume designers and prop masters to supply watches to filmmakers. “Our work with The Martian underlines the essence of the brand – the American Spirit and Swiss Precision. Such attributes are so well reflected by the starstudded cast in their challenging roles, so our timepieces really are the perfect fit for this movie. Furthermore it exemplifies the ongoing relationship we have had with Hollywood over the past six decades and how we’ve collaborated with many talented behind-the-scenes professionals to help bring their characters to life” said Sylvain Dolla, CEO of Hamilton International Ltd. Due to its continued involvement with Hollywood, Hamilton recognizes the wide spectrum of opportunities associated to the red carpet. With this in mind, the brand created the Hamilton Behind The Camera Awards, held in both Los Angeles and Shanghai. The awards pay tribute to the brilliant off-screen talent that contribute to the quality of a motion picture and to the lasting impression it makes on its audience.

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The Art of Creative Disruption with Rick de la Croix, founder Bomberg

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ick de la Croix isn’t the archetypal watchmaker. He’s not Swiss, he doesn’t come from a family of watchmakers, nor is he too fussed about selling you the precise time. In fact, if you ask him, he’ll tell you for that you’re best to look at your cellphone. What the Englishman de la Croix has created with Bomberg is a provocation; objects that excite the senses and this, he believes, is something the major watch maisons often overlook.

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With only four years of ‘heritage’ behind them, Rick de la Croix and his small team at Bomberg added more than just noise to an already hyperactive watch industry – they’ve added disruption.

so he turned to social media and developed a message, an identity, some noise. It’s a provocative identity too, and one that he readily accepts doesn’t meet with everyone’s approval.

While the focus, for many brands, has been to make their watches bigger, to make them thinner, more accurate, more complicated and (almost without exception) more expensive, de la Croix set about making watches relevant to today’s world.

“We’ve made use of something I call ‘creative disruption’”, he says, “something that, at the very least, starts a conversation”.

His ‘cellphone’ comment is merely part of his disarming and jocular manner. Bomberg are Swiss-made pieces, with a choice or automatic and quartz movements, and their accuracy fully reflects the precision of his designers and craftsmen. It’s just, this isn’t where a watch begins and ends for him.

“When you love them, watches are addictive”, he says, “and with Bomberg we wanted to create a brand for the people who value uniqueness and individuality”.

He has the same attitude towards Bomberg watches.

He feels these also deserve to be something that starts a conversation. “We don’t want to be another watch brand defined only by our price point. We want to create luxury, and give our wearers identity”.

Their Bolt68 is a perfect case in point. It’s a wristwatch, yes, but can also be worn as a pocket-watch, a pendant or a desktop watch. How’s that for a conversation starter?

Having built his first model; the 1968 Quartz Chronograph, remarkable for its asymmetric case – designed to follow the contours of the wrist, creating a snug and comfortable fit – he then set about creating an image for the brand.

“If you make the right product, and offer luxury, people will consume. The positive emotions we create through our pieces bring sales,” de la Croix adds, saying, “we’ve given people a reason to keep wearing a wristwatch. Our challenge is to continue to bringing innovations to the market, to be the first, and to remain unique”.

“To create a brand today, you need to make a noise. You can do this if you’ve got access to millions of dollars, but we don’t”,

Bomberg watches are available in The Avenues, Kuwait.

TikTok, Soku –

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BOSS Menswear & Sportswear Fall / Winter 15

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he world’s greatest luxury resorts provided inspiration for Fall/Winter 2015, with three modern minimalist architectural masterpieces identified to sum up the spirit of Nagano, Aspen and St. Moritz.

Nagano Nagano Prefecture is one of the finest locations in Japan.

BOSS is inspired by the harmony and aesthetic perfection of Nagano’s Ring House, constructed out of rings of glass and wood. Sunlight floods through the minimalist interior all day long, illuminating white walls and light wood flooring.

Likewise, the tailoring message from BOSS Menswear for this first theme is clean and pure. Tailoring is focused on the needs of the international traveler, ranging from high-twist wool suits through to over dyed denim jackets. The travel tailoring wardrobe also includes high-performance fabrics that are breathable, water-repellent and crease resistant.

A palette of blues dominates the colors, with pastel blue, medium blue and dark denim blue to the fore. Dark pine green and mallard green also play their part, with a touch of curry powder too. For sportswear, there are color pops of bright blue and yellow.

There’s a slick modernity to the sportswear. Choose a denim and nylon jacket with removable quilted inner bib or a superlightweight down jacket, worn with dark jeans, white shirt and a pure wool tie. Denim has never looked so luxurious, shown in a suit, jackets or differed shirts. Chambray shirts and indigo turtlenecks round up the theme.

Kuwait Kuwait Kuwait Kuwait

1785/2015/‫ ت‬1784/2015/‫ ت‬1783/2015/‫ ت‬1780/2015/‫ت‬ 27-11-2015 to 26-12-2015

HUGO BOSS AG Phone +49 /123 940 www.hugoboss.com

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Boss Boss Boss Boss

Store Prestige The Avenues T: 22288020 Store Mariam Complex Salmiya T: 22288021 Sportswear Store 2nd Avenue The Avenues T: 22288010 Sportswear Store Marina Mall Salmiya T: 22288023

SALE

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Aspen Aspen, Colorado, is the ultimate North American winter resort. BOSS is inspired by the luxury minimalism of the Linear House. It appears to float above a stone plinth, full of texture, shadow and natural features.

While outdoor style is a key influence for the season, BOSS Menswear has sought to refine the outdoors, creating luxury options for an upscale man who appreciates modern elegance.

The theme includes suits and jackets in finest compositions of alpaca, silk, cashmere, often unlined for maximum comfort.

The interplay of light and dark in the Linear House is reflected in the mix of matte and shine in the BOSS collection.

The warm color palette includes brick red, caramel, dark denim, grayish beige, brown, licorice, gray and olive.

Sportswear adds a touch highlight of red and orange.

Perfect for the outdoors are the new flannel suits and military-inspired coats. Jersey styles play a key role, offering the ultimate in luxury comfort. More highlights are jackets with the quilted nylon inner vests and the raw-edge coat.

Trimming details include real horn buttons and fur trims.

After the clean looks of Nagano, this delivery includes more texture, with double-faced jackets among the highlights.

Outdoors style achieves a new elevated status with cashmere duffle coats and peacoats.

The same message runs through sportswear, with luxury nylon field jackets, padded hybrid jackets, raw-cut leisure jackets and double-face wool mĂŠlange sweatpants. Sportswear focuses on refined pieces with a precise attention to details, ranging from bonded mesh styles to light weight down jackets, plus trouser with zipper details. Degrade effects are played through shirts or add color to dip-dyed knitwear.

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St. Moritz St. Moritz has long been the favored Swiss ski resort for the jet set. An architectural highlight is Chesa Futura, a copperclad house. It’s a thoroughly modern building that blends perfectly with its natural surroundings, reflecting the focus of this theme for BOSS Menswear.

Modern meets natural in a palette dominated by black, gray and camel, with touches of beet red and sky blue for sportswear.

The double-breasted jacket is a key item, worn with a cashmere camel coat. The wool jersey suit, so relaxed with drawstring pants, is another highlight of the season. New directions are also suggested with hidden technology styles.

There’s a real sense of St. Moritz luxury throughout this collection, from super-soft Donegal suits through to pure cashmere heavy knitted styles or a two-in-one coat and evening capsule collection.

Sportswear tempts with its take on winter layering: down jackets with long belted cardigans and black denim, with big knitted scarves. St. Moritz style rules with double-face peacoats, quilted vests and leather jackets, techno-twill leisure pants, and long shawl-collar cardigans. Winter resort style has never been so good!

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Salvatore Ferragamo

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Autumn / Winter 2015 / 16

o r the Salvatore Ferragamo Autumn-Winter 2015 collection, Massimiliano Giornetti explores tactile elegance to stimulate the senses. Different elements are mixed to create a fabulous design: a fairy tale story made up of fantasy and creativity. His narrative framework, fashioned by an intriguing language of symbols, animal motifs, stitches, and ties, is combined into a pristine men’s wardrobe. The centre of this universe is filled with positive resilience and virile sensuality.

Silhouettes are soft with relaxed and voluminous profiles.

Surfaces owe their treatments to a skill of concentration and precision. Key pieces lay the blueprint for his wardrobe: tailored suiting, double-breasted jackets, blousons and outerwear including duffel coats. The tailoring is neat and light. Against this backdrop are unexpected flashes of surprise; multi-coloured embroidery and leather patchwork create surreal animal motifs: zebras, flamingos, monkeys.

Knitwear masters woven motifs intertwined with stitching or is intensely finished in lightweight treatments. Striking three-dimensional coats are worn with cable-knit pullovers and big scarves: bold and ever-present, materials are central as the true protagonists. Unshakeable, traditional leathers and fabrics are permanently altered, transformed by artisanal handwork. An emphasis on experimental craft techniques underlines and updates one of Ferragamo’s founding principles, a unique vision transcending time, with a foundation built by invention and innovation, rigorous methods and free associations.

The colour palette: woody and nocturnal. Shades of dark green, chestnut, deep red, black and melange grey are lit up by bright, decorative details.

The accessories are melded together, reflecting the intentional, unusual combinations and unexpected pairings portrayed throughout the collection. Crocodile lace-ups and boots are reinforced at the toes and heels with natural leather emphasized by visible stitching; casting the illusion of blending footwear, the accumulative effect highlighted by contrasting textures. Generously-sized duffels in various materials carry the motif, reworking Salvatore Ferragamo’s original bag for the modern gentleman. The story is studded with miniature jewels in a decorative, narrative gesture where bronze and horn claws are used as buckles and brooches.

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Global Limited-Edition Collection from TUMI

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UMI elevates this holiday seasons’ travel experience with the newest Global LimitedEdition Collection—the collection embodies TUMI’s superior design innovation, engineering, functionality and performance with its ultra-streamlined design, clean and modern styling details and advanced functionality.

Global Limited-Edition Backpack: Sporty and sophisticated, this beautifully crafted backpack from our new Global Limited-Edition collection is made from TUMI’s outstandingly durable FXT ballistic nylon® and elegantly trimmed with rich, contrast leather accents. It’s an ideal daily commuter or carry-on with a well-organized interior to organize and protect your digital must-haves.

Global Limited-Edition Tote: Just call this the consummate travelers’ tote. For work to weekend and everywhere in between, this refined carryall boasts a timeless, trapezoidal silhouette and offers you a perfectly organized interior for jewelry, electronics and other daily must-haves.

Global Limited-Edition Slim Brief: This slim, sophisticated brief is sleek in design and crafted from TUMI’s outstandingly durable FXT ballistic nylon® and features rich, contrast leather trim. A handsome addition to complete your work week wardrobe and ideal for travel, this carry-on perfect brief boasts a multitude of interior pockets with dedicated compartments for your digital world essentials.

Global Limited-Edition Medium Trip Expandable Packing Case & International Expandable Carry-On: Glide to your destination effortlessly with this sophisticated new hardside case. Constructed from Tegris®, a revolutionary polypropylene thermoplastic composite material created

by Milliken® for use in lifesaving armor, NASCAR race cars and protective gear for NFL players, this expandable packing case is ideal for longer business or leisure trips. The main compartment of this beautifully crafted packing case expands by 2” for greater packing capacity when you need it and features a spacious, accessible front pocket.

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Featherweight Warmth from Hackett London

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ackett London’s AW15 collection of stylish and lightweight Italian scarves are perfect for layering or making a statement on their own, this season.

Made in Italy of the finest cashmere and rayon, this new selection of accessories will look ideal with Hackett’s handsome double-breasted camel coat or casually worn with a tailored suit jacket or blazer.

Indoors or out, the subtle yet bold 1970s prints add a rich and retro quality to your winter wardrobe without compromising on warmth or practicality.

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THE LUXE TRAVEL

Cruising The World Which boats to book for 2016

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t’s a well-known fact that travelling by boat allows you to reach otherwise inaccessible places.

Furthermore, it allows you to escape the crowds (and the traffic) and experience the everchanging scenery of the world, with utterly un-interrupted views.

THE LUXE TRAVEL

There are numerous boats of all shapes and sizes, travelling all over the world, so how do you know which to choose? There’s no better place to start than our look at the best cruises for 2016 as selected by U.S. News in their annual review.

Whether you’re cruising through the icy straits of Alaska, searching for wildlife on an expedition ship in Galapagos or soaking up the sun on-board your private yacht charter, choose a comfortable vessel which allows you to enjoy a variety of destinations with unique cultures, fascinating history, spectacular wildlife and magnificent landscapes without the hassle of constant packing and unpacking.

Service is also paramount and a high crew-to-passenger ratio gives you a more personalised and attentive service, resulting in a perfect balance of exploration and comfort.

Riviera Routes: 10 night Miami – Miami roundtrip; 7 night Caribbean; 14 night Barcelona to Miami; 22 night Venice to Istanbul Launched in 2012, Riviera is Oceania’s newest ship. Similar to sister ship Marina, Riviera can accommodate 800 crew members and 1,250 passengers, maintaining the line’s signature luxury service. Past cruisers applauded the friendly staff, and added that the ship’s limited capacity ensured that the vessel never felt crowded. The ship also features larger staterooms compared to Oceania’s older ships. Cabin choices include compact Inside Staterooms (174 square feet), Ocean View and Veranda staterooms as well as suites that range from 420 to 2,000 square feet. All cabins include minibars, flat-screen TVs and full-size bathtubs. Those who splurge on a suite receive perks like priority embarkation and 24-hour butler service. When it’s time for a meal, cruisers can choose from nine dining options, including spots exclusive to Riviera and Marina: Jacques (serving French fare) and Red Ginger (offering Asian-focused dishes). Other pursuits available on the ship include treatments at the Canyon Ranch SpaClub, painting at the Artist Loft and cooking classes at the Bon Appétit Culinary Center. With amenities and organized events geared toward older cruisers, Riviera isn’t a great choice for those traveling with children.

Our pick of the rooms: Penthouse Suite Size: 420 sq. ft. including private veranda Occupancy: 2 guests standard - some sleep 3 guests Amenities: This elegant suites feature two twin beds or a queen-size bed with plush linens private veranda living room with dining area sofa (some feature sofa bed to sleep additional guest) large marble/granite-clad bathroom with full-size bathtub separate shower and full-size walk-in closet butler service exclusive use of the Executive Lounge LCD flat-screen television safe priority check-in safe and more.

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THE LUXE TRAVEL

Celebrity Solstice Routes: 12 night New Zealand; 8 night South Pacific (Sydney roundtrip); 10 night Hawaii northbound (Honolulu to Vancouver) Inaugurated in 2008, the 2,850-passenger Celebrity Solstice was the first ship to debut in the line’s Solstice class. Solstice distinguishes itself from its predecessors with features like the half-acre Lawn Club and the Hot Glass Show. The ship also offers plenty of daytime activities, from treatments at the Canyon Ranch SpaClub to cooking lessons and art classes.

For guests ages 3 to 17, the ship has a host of age-appropriate clubs and teen-only hangouts. As far as dining goes, Celebrity Solstice boasts 10 restaurants, five of which are specialty spots that require an extra fee. Travelers can grab a quick, casual bite or sit down at the Grand Epernay Dining Room, which features a two-story glass wine tower. Past cruisers were impressed with the restaurant servers (along with the rest of the staff) for making a larger midsize ship feel intimate. And with a nearly 1-to-2 crew-to-passenger ratio, the ship allows for more attentive service than some competitors. When it comes to lodging, 85 percent of Solstice’s cabins feature verandas, and rooms are about 15 percent larger than older ships in the fleet. Guests can choose from Inside, Ocean View, Veranda and Suite category cabins, all with amenities like flat-screen TVs, minibars and 24-hour room service.

Our pick of the rooms: Penthouse Suite Size: 1291 sq. ft.; Balcony: 389 sq. ft.

Occupancy: Up to 4 guests Amenities: Master bedroom with king size bed 26” LCD TV vanity walk-in closet marble master bath with whirlpool tub separate shower double sink floor-to-ceiling sliding glass doors that open to a veranda with whirlpool and lounge seating, separate living room with dining area, baby grand piano, queen sleeper sofa, lounge seating, surround sound entertainment system with interactive 52” LCD TV, full guest bath, safe thermostat-controlled-air-conditioning, oversized bath towels, plush bathrobes, fresh fruit and flowers, telephone, hairdryer and complimentary 24-hour room service. Penthouse Suites also feature butler service assistance with unpacking/packing, in-suite breakfast lunch & dinner service, in-suite afternoon tea service, evening hors d’oeuvres, complimentary in-suite espresso & cappuccino, priority check-in, priority tender service, main & specialty restaurant seating preferences, complimentary shoeshine service, private portrait sitting, celebrity tote bag, opportunity to book in-suite massages and more.

THE LUXE TRAVEL

Crystal Symphony routes: 99 night Grand Pacific Explorer (Melbourne to Tokyo); 15 night Brazilian (San Juan to Rio de Janeiro); 14 night Baltic Legends (Portsmouth to Stockholm) Thanks to a $20 million facelift in September 2014, Crystal Symphony (first launched in 1995) now boasts an updated spa and outdoor fitness garden as well as a casino venue and a piano bar. Even with these new features, recent cruisers said the customer service is what sets the ship apart from other luxury liners. The ship can carry up to 922 passengers, and 545 crew members, and guests said they felt catered to.

There are a number of activities available on board, including fitness programs, dance lessons, musical performances and a range of options at the feng shui-designed Crystal Spa, Salon & Fitness Center. As for accommodations, 58 percent offer verandas (all staterooms afford ocean views) and amenities like flat-screen TVs, minifridges and bathrooms with bathtubs. Guests staying in Penthouse category rooms are treated to extra privileges like complimentary hors d’oeuvres, two hours of free Internet access and butler service. Previous cruisers also commended the ship’s extensive culinary offerings with 10 eateries, including the specialty dining restaurants with menus by acclaimed chefs Nobu Matsuhisa and Piero Selvaggio.

Our pick of the rooms: Crystal Penthouse with Verandah Size: 982 sq ft. including Verandah Occupancy: Up to 3 guests Amenities: Spacious living room with wool carpets walnut floors cabinetry and Swarovski chandelier dining area with panoramic ocean views; custom entertainment center with Samsung flat-panel television, Blu-ray DVD/CD players and Bose surround sound, a separate study, Aquavision television in bathroom, large bedroom with queen-size bed or twin beds, his and hers walk-in closets, flat-panel television with Blu-ray DVD/CD player; master bath with Jacuzzi, ocean view, crystal sconces and heated Calacatta marble floors, separate shower and bidet; large private verandah with teak furniture; guest bathroom, cordless phone, wireless internet access, refrigerator and safe. Other penthouse amenities include complimentary drinks and bottled water in room, complimentary newspaper of your choice, once daily personal butler service, unpacking and repacking upon request, afternoon tea service, nightly hors d’oeuvres, complimentary pressing and shoeshine and order “in” from specialty restaurants.

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THE LUXE ARTS

Dubai Design Week Wrap

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he inaugural Dubai Design Week, the six-day celebration and showcase of the most exciting and innovative design and designers from the MENASA region and beyond, came to a close on Sunday 31 October after a landmark week of exhibitions and events that served to cement the city’s status as the design capital of the region.

Dubai Design Week is owned and managed by Art Dubai Group partnership with Dubai Design District (d3) and supported by the Dubai Design & Fashion Council (DDFC) and the Dubai Culture & Arts Authority (Dubai Culture).

The event was opened on 26 October by its patron, Her Highness Sheikha Latifa bint Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice Chairman of the Dubai Culture & Arts Authority (Dubai Culture), and enjoyed visits from a host of other international dignitaries throughout the week, including the ambassadors of China, Switzerland, Belgium, France, Mexico and Finland and representatives from the Consulate General of Canada.

More than 120 designers from 35 countries took part, alongside some of the world’s most influential industry figureheads, representatives from global academic institutions and key creatives from across the Middle East, making Dubai Design Week one of the most significant and widely attended events in the region’s design history.

Between 26 and 31 October, more than 100 events took place across the city, featuring a diverse cast of designers, artists, architects, educational and cultural institutions, retail stores, iconic brands, trade professionals, authors, thinkers and more. The focal point of the week was the new Dubai Design District (d3), which effectively became a free-to-visit ‘open museum of design’ for the duration of the event and host to the Middle East’s first ever Instagram #empty, a pioneering event during which Dubai Design Week opened outside of opening hours to a select group of regional and international Instagrammers.

Mohammad Saeed Al-Shehhi, Chief Operating Officer of d3 says ““Dubai Design Week was a tremendous success for the city of Dubai and a real test of d3 in terms of both concept and infrastructure. I’m thrilled to say that

THE LUXE ARTS

Dubai Design Week gave us proof not only that d3 ‘works’ as a venue, but that its mission – to provide Dubai’s dynamic creative sector with a dedicated platform that can act as an international focus for design in the Middle East region – is timely, welcome and, above all, necessary.”

Highlights of Dubai Design Week’s ambitious public programme included the Global Grad Show – a globally unprecedented exhibition that brought together projects from the world’s leading design universities in an attempt to showcase the ideas that will shape the future. The worldwide scope of the show broke new ground – as curator Brendan McGetrick pointed out, you’d have “37,507 kilometres to travel to see each project if leaving from Dubai”.

Residents and visitors alike interacted with site-specific works located around the city – including installations in Tashkeel, Al Fahidi, d3, THE BEACH and CITYWALK

by Meraas – from 13 specially commissioned multidisciplinary designers and visual artists. The varied talks and workshops programme included keynotes from design visionaries such as Lebanese starchitect Bernard Khoury and Brazilian designer Humberto Campana, while hands-on DIY tech workshops gave people of all ages and interests the opportunity to discover design. More than 750 students from 20 schools and universities took advantage of Dubai Design Week’s educational arm, benefiting from guide-led exhibition tours.

Dubai Design Week’s commercial centrepiece, the third edition of trade fair Downtown Design, has been the most successful to date, firmly establishing the fair as the leading design trade event in the region. Pre-registrations increased by 25%, and visitor numbers surpassed all expectation – current estimates suggests that more than 10,000 people crossed the threshold over the fair’s four days. A deluge of positive feedback from industry representatives, buyers and brands has led to a surge in demand for space at the 2016 edition, already exceeding this year’s levels, meaning it’s not too early to suggest that Downtown Design’s fourth edition in 2016 will be the biggest and most influential yet.

“The inaugural edition of Dubai Design Week has been fantastically received and we are already starting to plan the programme for 2016, beginning with the opportunities presented by the many visiting delegations throughout the week. As this year has so clearly demonstrated, Dubai Design Week is a truly global event for the entire region, with the city of Dubai at its heart,” summarises Cyril Zammit, Art Dubai Group’s Director of Design.

Now that it’s over, two things are sure: 1) Dubai has successfully laid its claim to being the world’s newest design centre; and 2) expectations for Dubai Design Week 2016 will be very high indeed – the city is looking forward to meeting them.

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THE LUXE ZEITGEIST

ZEITGEIST Good design, where form and function come together so exquisitely, should always be celebrated.

This month Men’s Passion features some of the most desirable and well executed products that define the times in which we are living.

Bang & Olufsen BeoLab 90

THE LUXE ZEITGEIST

Bang & Olufsen have long been known for combining radical, stylish designs with state-of-the-art technology to create world class audio equipment – and their latest release could be their best yet.

The Danish audio experts have produced a set of hightech speakers called the BeoLab 90, featuring eye-catching geometric design and a grand total of 18 drivers including seven tweeters, seven mids, and four woofers.

Boasting the kind of striking curves and lines you would normally expect to see on a luxury yacht, the 50 inch high BeoLab 90 is built from an aluminium cabinet and uses acoustically transparent fabric stretched across the speakers in a wave like pattern.

Each unit provides multi-directional audio, while Bang & Olufsen have also added a feature called “Beam Width Control,” that allows users to focus the sound to a specific area of a room – a function that can be performed via your smartphone using B&O’s app.

Each individual speaker is priced at $38,995 and is available from Bang & Olufsen stores worldwide.

Founded in Denmark in 1925 by Peter Bang and Svend Olufsen, Bang & Olufsen has grown to become one of the world’s most renowned designers of high-end audio products, television sets and telephones.

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REAL ESTATE REPORT

Kuwait Outward Investment Surges

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ncouraged by low oil prices, Kuwaitis are diversifying their investments both at home and in overseas markets. By Teneshia Naidoo, Cityscape magazine.

REAL ESTATE REPORT

Over the last decade outward foreign investments by Kuwaitis have helped boost the Gulf country’s economic leverage in both the region and in the world. It’s an advantage for the country as a whole, with industry experts stressing the need to maintain such an approach to benefit from the leading Kuwaiti investments abroad.

The figures speak for themselves; Kuwaitis invested nearly USD 14.2 billion abroad in 2007 alone. Almost ten years later, Kuwaitis are still looking at opportunities abroad. Kuwait is the Middle East’s largest and the world’s seventh largest foreign investor, according to the World Investment Report of 2015, released by the United Nations Conference Trade and Development (UNCTAD). Hong Kong, China, Russia, Singapore, South Korea, Malaysia and Kuwait topped the list of countries investing overseas, added the report.

The report noted that Kuwait also came first in terms of outward foreign direct investment (FDI) in the Middle East region with total investments of USD 13 billion. Qatar and Turkey placed second with total outward FDI of USD 7 billion each, followed

by Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates with USD 5 billion and USD 3 billion respectively.

CAPITAL OUTFLOWS As it stands experts maintain that Kuwaitis are aggressive in their outward direct investments. Ramy Echo, Chief Investment Officer at ALARGAN International Real Estate Company, based in Kuwait, says that it’s not a new trend as Kuwaitis have historically looked to international markets. “I’m not surprised that Kuwaitis rank high in foreign investment, they are probably the most proactive investors in the Middle East.

Kuwait foreign investment was further emphasised after the first Gulf War but Kuwaitis were always pioneers in moving first into growing markets.”

Echo says that while the GCC is the prominent investment hub for Kuwaitis, there is major investment from both the private and public sector into UK real estate among other European countries. “We are seeing inflows into France and especially Germany, which has been substantial, given that it is offering a better value proposition compared to other European countries; we are also recently noticing more allocation to the U.S. market.”

Turkey is another major investment destination for Kuwaitis.

Echo says that when the Turkish government legalised real estate ownership for GCC nationals in May 2012, Kuwaitis were among the first to purchase real estate and secure projects with Turkish developers.

“We are exposed to a lot of real estate events and projects in Kuwait that promote attractive investment opportunities outside the country, due to the culture of Kuwaiti outward direct investment. Appetite for real estate outside the region is probably at its highest, due to declining oil prices and regional geopolitical tension,” he says.

FOCUS ON THE AMERICAS According to Iryna Pylypchuk, Director, Global Research, CBRE, there is a shift in the target of Kuwaiti investments, with Kuwaitis now turning their attention towards the Americas region.

“The focus of Kuwaiti investors has turned towards the Americas, opposed to what was the case back in 2012 and 2013.

This can be mainly attributed to the fact that in 2012 and 2013 the key buyers from Kuwait were St Martins Properties buying on behalf of the Kuwait Sovereign Wealth Fund – with a small number of very large London assets – such as More London and Canada Square 5 – significantly skewing the results, particularly in 2013,” she says.

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REAL ESTATE REPORT

For Pylypchuk, the key focus in the short to medium term will continue to be on the UK and the U.S. “This is especially true if we are thinking about the relatively newer/non-institutional capital looking to invest abroad. Investors, who are new to global markets and exposure, will most certainly target the largest and most liquid markets at the start of their expansion.”

She adds that over the last year Kuwaitis have exhibited strong buying and selling power in Europe. “The recent sale activity by Kuwait investors is just under USD 900 million in Europe alone in the last 18 months – with about half being in London and the other half in other UK locations. Considering that Middle Eastern investors tend to sell on to other buyers from the region – what appears to be a ‘supply’ of product in the UK – may lead to more buying activity as a result.”

Although, she’s quick to add that while it may be a broad generalisation, it is one worth highlighting.

REAL ESTATE REPORT

BEYOND OIL The UN ranking is a step in the right direction for Kuwait, especially considering that in August this year the Kuwaiti government underlined the need to press ahead with investment spending and the diversification of revenue sources, following the global plunge in oil prices.

The state-run Kuna news agency repor ted that Finance Minister Anas Al-Saleh briefed the cabinet on the market turmoil following the drop in Brent prices (below USD 45) for the first time since 2009. The drop has resulted in Kuwait’s benchmark index dropping 1.6%, the lowest since 2012.

The fourth-largest producer in OPEC (Organisation for the Petroleum Exporting Countries), Kuwait pumps about 2.8 million barrels of oil per day and oil income has contributed to more than 90% of public revenue.

According to a diversification report by Mahmoud Galal of Asiya Investments - an Asian focused investment company Kuwait is already showing signs of recovery (especially in its housing sector). “Furthermore, leading indicators started to pick up, suggesting more spending and positive sentiment going forward.”

“Overall, oil continued to be the one factor driving economic performance in the GCC. Economic diversification is a key element for the Gulf countries to ensure future healthy growth. It is necessary for GCC governments to diversify their sources of income away from fossil fuels revenues,” the report said.

Echo agrees. After the Arab Spring ALARGAN were in discussions to invest in real estate outside the region, although nothing materialised at the time. “This was reconfirmed following the geopolitical tension in the region and the fall in oil prices.

Part of our new strategy moving forward is establishing a portfolio of income generating assets outside the region in order to diversify. We are actively pursuing many opportunities in at the U.S., UK and Germany. Many companies are also doing this.”

It is common knowledge that a day will come when oil resources will run out and alternative solutions are required in order for Kuwait to be able to secure economic growth in the future and for investors to be able to remain profitable.

According to Echo, it would be prudent for local and regional companies who wish to maintain sustainable growth to diversify their assets and revenues into markets that are not directly correlated to the region.

Taking place on 9 - 11 December 2015 at Kuwait International Fairgrounds, Cityscape Kuwait is the only international real estate investment event in the State of Kuwait and provides a unique opportunity to access the Kuwaiti and international real estate community all under one roof. Visit www.cityscapekuwait.com for more information.

KUWAIT REAL ESTATE SNAPSHOT Residential: According to Echo one of the biggest challenges and perhaps the biggest investment opportunity in the real estate market is the scarcity and price of land in the residential sector.

“The supply of land is scarce and expensive in Kuwait.

Supply is limited and prices substantially high pushing a lot of Kuwaitis to rent. However, the lack of housing is creating opportunities for public private partnerships to find solutions to this crisis.”

Retail: Retail is one of the best performing asset classes in the country. “Retail is quite developed and we have a lot of malls coming up along with major expansion projects such as The Avenues and 360 Mall. A recent trend within retail that we are witnessing is the rise in strip malls such as the upcoming Argan Square.

Office: “The office segment started recovering after the crisis with vacancies improving from 35% to around 15% currently. Prices have also moved upward since.

"This is partly due to local businesses upgrading their office space. As it stands today, the office segment faces some pressure from declining oil prices but there still room for improvement,” says Echo.

This article is supplied by Cityscape Magazine.

Cityscape magazine is the Middle East’s leading monthly real estate investment title and is owned and published by Informa Middle East Limited. For more information, please visit www.cityscape.org Visit Cityscape Kuwait, the only international real estate investment event in Kuwait for buying your dream home.

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THE LUXE EVENTS

BOMBERG Launch Event

BOMBERG, the new Swiss Watchmaking brand that’s causing a stir, and Behbehani Group launched the brand in TikTok, Soku – The Avenues on Monday November 9th.

Mr. Ali Morad Behbehani, President of Morad Yousuf Behbehani Group, Mr. Rick De La Croix, Chairman of BOMBERG and Mr. Jacques Tedeschi, Sales Director of BOMBERG Middle East, commenced the event with an introduction of the brand before allowing the media and customers to view the BOMBERG collection.

“It is a great honour to collaborate with such an amazing company as Morad Yousuf Behbehani Group for BOMBERG. Being represented by the most prominent partner here in this wonderful country, Kuwait, is a fantastic opportunity for us” said Mr. Rick De La Croix.

BOMBERG is based in Neuchâtel, the cradle of the Swiss watchmaking. Swiss Made and high-quality brand, BOMBERG is making noise all over the world with its unconventional design, audacious communication and provocative identity which can be seen on Instagram @bombergmea and website www.bomberg.ch. This is foreseen by the concept which completely overturns classic Watchmaking rules to create unusual timepieces.

THE LUXE EVENTS

Launched at the Basel Fair 2014, the BOLT-68 shortly became the major collection of BOMBERG with its patented bayonet system that turns your exclusive timepiece into a masculine pocket watch. Together with the 1968 collection, with its unique asymmetric shape takes the wristwatch to a new level opening up new horizons for its trend-setting wearer.

BOMBERG is housed under the luxury retail conglomerate, Behbehani group, with over 75 years of experience.

Behbehani Group owns and manages a series of showrooms and stores exclusively for international watch brands as well as jewellery. These showrooms are located in prestigious malls around Kuwait such as Salhiya, 360 MALL, Marina Mall, Souq Sharq, Al Kout, Laila Gallery, Al Hamra Luxury Center, The Gate Mall, Behbehani Complex and Tiktok (Soku, The Avenues).

The event, as unconventional as the brand, engaged the media and customers to participate in a selfie competition by selecting from various BOMBERG watches via the selfie box installed in the TikTok showroom.

Selfies were uploaded onto Tik Tok Facebook page so contestants would share their pictures. 2 selfie’s with the most likes will win a BOMBERG watch each.

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THE LUXE EVENTS

Porsche Club of Kuwait Celebrates

The Porsche Club of Kuwait gathered at the Porsche Design store to celebrate its 12 th anniversary. Founded to bring together those with a passion for Porsche, it has gone from strength to strength throughout the years. The event was attended by PCK members, and the guest of honor was the German ambassador in Kuwait, His Excellency Eugen Wollfarth.

THE LUXE EVENTS

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THE LUXE EVENTS

Mohamed Naser Al Sayer & Lexus Unveils All New 2016 Models

Mohamed Naser Al Sayer and Sons (MNSS), one of the Al Sayer Group Holding Companies and the exclusive distributor of Lexus unveiled luxury SUV’s 2016 LX and RX. Faisal Bader Al Sayer Vice Chairman Al Sayer Group Holding, Simon Frith Business Director Lexus Kuwait, Bader Musaed Al Sayer Deputy Business Director Lexus Kuwait unveiled the iconic Lexus models along with Sadayoshi Koyari Chief Engineer for the LX, Jun Takahashi Assistant Chief Engineer for the RX, Takayuki Yoshitsugu Chief Representative of Toyota Motor Corporation MENARO Dubai in front of delegates from the press and media.

According to Faisal Bader Al Sayer, Vice Chairman Al Sayer Group Holding said “Overall 2015 has been a spectacular year for Lexus. Lexus has been named the top brand in the annual Consumer Reports Reliability Survey. All seven vehicle lines offered by Lexus received top reliability marks, and in Kuwait Lexus won the first of its kind, a prestigious award for excellence in public relations and customer service under the patronage of His Highness The Amir of Kuwait Sheikh Sabah Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah.”

Simon Frith Business Director MNSS Lexus said “Since its inception some 25 years ago Lexus has dared to be different, it’s been dedicated to craftsmanship, and has consistently looked forward with a focus on sustainable-technologies and been about a different kind of luxury, a progressive luxury, supported by outstanding customer service.”

LX – New Paradigm Of Perfection The iconic luxury SUV now comes in a new muscular look.

Dynamic exterior styling includes a new rendition of the signature Lexus Spindle grill and a refined interior that has more features than ever before. With its renowned powerful V8 engine, the new LX570 incorporates an all-new 8 speed automatic gear box and the Lexus Safety System+ - meaning this sophisticated 4WD remains the only SUV that combines sumptuous luxury with true off-road capability. The LX leading the way.

RX – Once The Pioneer, Always The Pioneer The pioneering cross-over SUV now comes with a more sculpted contemporary body, and a completely new luxurious interior to match. The all-new 2016 RX also boasts exceptional on-road performance and technologies that include the innovative Lexus Safety System+, of course it goes without saying that it still holds true to its pioneering roads, leading edge technology combined with elegance, sophistication and luxury are still part of the car’s DNA.