men's Passion #86 - May 2017

THE AUTOMOBILE EDITION Driving Force

ISSUE NUMBER 86 - MAY 2017

JUST A THOUGHT Dear Passionate Readers, A drive at a speed faster than my thoughts...

Or a flight at a height higher than my dreams…

Anything that propels me out of the limits of realities and into the aspirations of what could be…

And at that moment…

I stop to wonder…

Just what kind of drive has man been given to keep seeking the more?

And at what point can one stop to simply enjoy the view?

And if the stop is long enough, would the view turn colorless?

Are we bound to be forever driven in a relentless search of that which is new?

Well..This is one issue that is full of drive, So enjoy the highlights of Geneva Motor Show and put your aspirations on top gear with us!

Till next issue,

Zeina Mokaddam Managing Director

ON THE COVER:

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Amera Al-Awadhi May 2017

MEN’S PASSION - May 2017 - ISSUE #86 - SOLD IN KUWAIT KD 3 - UAE DHS 35

This edition marks our annual homage to the world of automobiles. There can be few manmade objects that inspire an equal passion – and we’re as crazy about a finelytuned engine or an exquisitely-engineered torsion bar as anyone else. Come with us as we look at some of this year’s latest and best, and join us on a drive of perhaps the ultimate Grand Tourer.

LEGAL CONSULTANT Khaled Al-Kandari Al-Kandari Law Firm PUBLISHED BY

MANAGING DIRECTOR Zeina Mokaddam GENERAL MANAGER Chimene Ibrahim BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT DIRECTOR Nouf Al-Hajri GROUP CREATIVE DIRECTOR Yousif Abdulsaid

THE AUTOMOBILE EDITION Driving Force

MANAGING EDITOR Simon Balsom

CONTENTS 10

Al Zayani with Steve Brown, Director of Automotive

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16

Zakaria Dashti Motorsport Consultant to PAS

66 Omega

Paying tribute to Speedmaster fans

18

Geneva International Motor Show 2017 News of the Marques

68

Global launch of Conquest V.H.P. A new milestone for quartz technology

70

Panerai Classic Yachts Challenge 2017 The 13th edition of the leading international circuit for the Grandes Dames of the sea

73

Diver Le Locle Ulysee Nardin pays homage to the past

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The iconic RadoCeramica Watchmaker adds three new pieces to redesigned collection

20 Maserati

Special Editions 22 BMW

i8 Protonic Frozen Black Edition 24 Jaguar

I-PACE Concept 25

Aston Martin Valkyrie x Michelin

26

Unleash The Power Driving the Ferrari GTC4Lusso T

30

Tissot T-Touch Expert Solar II It’s time for an adventure

76 Corneliani

Spring Summer 2017 Collection

My Porsche

78

Dressed For Success Hugo Boss sponsors the world’s most prestigious soccer teams

32

Porsche Exclusive Individuality straight from the factory

80

Tumi Spring 2017

36

Bentley Bentayga MECOTY’s ‘Best Large Premium SUV’

81

Tom Ford Private Blend Vert De Fleur

38

New Audi R8LMS GT4 Audi Sport customer racing headed for growth

82

Great drive!

Audi drivers swap highways for fairways

40

The Finish Line Auto horology

83

Sergio Garcia’s “Green Jacket” Moment With his Black and Blue Omega

46

When Form Becomes Performance Precision; speed; perfection

84

Couach A double celebration

56

Marco Tedeschi Hublot

88

Athens – Forget About The Past The city in 48 hours

60

Patek Philippe

62

L.U.C Full Strike A crystal-clear sound

64

The Tourbillon Legend. Reinvented. from de Grisogono

92 ZEITGEIST 94 EVENTS 104 LISTINGS

EDITORIAL MANAGER Aradhna Singh CONTRIBUTORS MaryAnn D’Silva CREATIVE DIRECTOR Nidal Al-Shaker HEAD OF PHOTOGRAPHY Maher Al-Nouri PRODUCTION MANAGER Jad Nahhas 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.

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THE DEALER

Al Zayani

with Steve Brown, Director of Automotive

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family owned and operated business established over 60 years ago, Al Zayani has become one of the most highly regarded luxury automotive retailers in the Gulf region representing some of the world’s finest automotive brands. Today’s enviable portfolio includes Jaguar, Ferrari, Maserati, Bentley and Bugatti as well as Tata, Daewoo and Foton commercial vehicles.

THE DEALER

Al Zayani are truly one of the most exciting names in motor retailing today, vibrant with a fresh approach and focus on delivering the very highest levels of customer experience.

The state of the art facilities, completely rebuilt in 2016, offer Al Zayani’s customers the very best in luxury and refinement with the very latest technology.

The challenges of remaining at the top of their game are constant – and neither they nor the marques they represent will settle for anything less than the best. Steve Brown, their Director of Automotive, tells us more.

Your marques are all at the absolute pinnacle of their sectors, they offer a uniqueness of DNA. Are they all targeting different passions within the same client base?

We offer a range of brands that cover all segments within the automotive field and each of our brands, especially the high-end ones, offer a totally different experience.

Some of the models within each of those brands might be considered as competitors by some clients but the reality is that each of them targets a totally different ardour even if it’s the same client.

How brand-loyal do your customers remain in the face of such choices?

The passion that our customers have toward our brands makes them very loyal to their choice. Whilst we do see a small percentage of our clients switch brands we do have excellent customer retention within each and also within Al Zayani group as a whole.

What are the key developments and new launches from within your marques that we should be looking out for as the year passes?

It’s hard to believe we are already in 2017 as last year was such an unbelievable year with Jaguar, Bentley and Maserati launching 4x4 models for the very first time and Ferrari introducing the all new GTC4Lusso. 2017 is sure to be another very busy year for Al Zayani. We are launching

the fastest and most powerful Ferrari yet; the 812 Superfast in May. Also in May we will be launching the largest Jaguar showroom in the world. In the third quarter Jaguar will be introducing F-type and F-Pace with a new 2.0L engine and later this year toward the last quarter we will have two surprises from Maserati and Bentley. In December, we will be celebrating Ferrari’s 70th anniversary.

There’s a move towards bespoke and a large degree of personalisation within the luxury sector. What are the key areas your client look at as a way of individualizing their automobiles?

Bespoke plays a big role in our brands, especially with Bentley and Ferrari. Our clients personalize their cars to reflect their personality, starting from the exterior colour of the car to the type of materials used on the interior and the interior colour combinations to the options as those two brands offer endless personalization options.

What’s the after-sales service at Al Zayani that a client can expect?

Would you believe that 90% of our customer contact is actually through our aftersales operations?As a result, 90% of our focus goes on enhancing the customer experience in this area. Unlike buying a new car, taking your car for service or repair is typically an inconvenience for any customer and our job is to do everything we can to make it a pleasurable experience. I can give you so many examples of how we are approaching this but if I can highlight our top 5 focus areas to give the very best customer experience.

Premises: We have made significant investment in all of our premises to ensure our clients have the very best experience. Last year we opened a brand new state of the art Bentley aftersales operation and we doubled the size of our Ferrari/Maserati facility. This month will also see the launch of our new state of the art Jaguar drive-in service centre. All of these facilities now include valet parking, luxury lounges, accessory boutiques and Jaguar even has its own café bar!

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THE DEALER

Our People: Of course our business is all about people and we are investing heavily in both resource and training.

By the end of June, we will have increased our number of aftersales employees by 25% with the main area being our technical team. With the complexity of our brands and the huge advancements in technology it is not easy to find the right number and calibre of technical staff in a small market like Kuwait. We have therefore literally scoured the globe and now have the very best Technical Team Managers joining us from UK, South Africa and even Australia!

Booking Process: We now have an amazing customer contact centre with a dedicated team of professionals who take all initial enquiries and service bookings without having the added delay of being transferred directly to the service team. Our contact centre advisors can provide everything required to make a booking including quotations and arranging alternative transport. We are also working very hard towards guaranteeing our customers an appointment within 24 hours which is industry leading.

Convenience: As I’ve already mentioned bringing the car for service is a necessity but can often be a hassle for our clients. In some cases we also need to order parts from Italy or the UK so we are trying to ensure we do everything we can to make the process as trouble free as possible. For

example we have doubled the number of loan cars we offer our customers and now have over 30 replacement vehicles which is significant for a luxury retailer of our size. Of course you can never have a replacement car for every customer so we have added a number of other services to minimise inconvenience. These include 5 recovery trucks that work 24/7 for breakdown and for Ferrari and Bentley service collection, plus we have 3 dedicated Zayani chauffeurs who will transport our clients throughout Kuwait in the luxury of a Jaguar XJ. Finally we have a Jaguar emergency service vehicle and technician that will attend breakdowns 24 hours per day and also complete remedial roadside repairs and we are looking to add an additional vehicle soon to cover all of our brands.

Technology:We recently invested $1m in new industry leading technology that allows us to better understand our customers’ needs and for us to communicate in a much more effective manner. This includes a new integrated digital and mobile phone facility with call recording to help us improve our levels of service. It also includes unique new mobile tablet systems for our service and technical teams and very soon we will be launching video technology to highlight repairs required on our customers’ cars. All of this not only improves our efficiency but also provides complete transparency to our clients.

THE DEALER

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THE DEALER

THE DEALER

How have you seen the automobile sector in Kuwait develop over recent years? How have expectations of dealerships changed? And how has Al Zayani adapted?

This is actually a very interesting topic for me. There has been much said in the last 2 years about the difficult market conditions in Kuwait and there is no doubt that things are more challenging today than they have been probably for the last 25 years. Quite frankly though I don’t buy it and I can only see opportunity. Indeed if you look around the world today, how many markets can you identify that actually offer better opportunities for the automotive sector than Kuwait? We have so many economic indicators to be positive about - the lowest breakeven oil price in the Gulf, a $600bn sovereign wealth fund, a $100bn Government spending plan, an AA credit rating and improving consumer confidence. If you then look at the demographics of the population; almost 50% of Kuwaitis are under the age of 20 which logically creates an exponential growth in market opportunity. There is certainly so much more to be encouraged by than to fear and I firmly believe that we, as business leaders, have an important role to play in changing this.

However, as I mentioned, the market has been more difficult but challenging conditions for me are very good for business in the long term as you undoubtedly increase your focus on business process and efficiency and of course exceeding customer expectations. As you would expect, representing the finest automotive brands in the world, our customers are extremely shrewd and demanding and we always need to be at the forefront in everything we do.

During this change that we have witnessed, Zayani have adapted very well. As an example in 2016, against a drop in total car sales of 25%, our brands actually recorded a small gain. So far in 2017 the market has dropped by around 10% and Zayani have enjoyed significant growth.

In simple terms we have achieved this by taking some very brave steps in terms of investment and retuning our vision and strategy. In difficult times many retailers look to cut investment and cut costs, effectively conceding. We have done the complete opposite - In the last 12 months alone we have carried out a multi-million dollar upgrade to every single one of our sales and aftersales facilities, each investment centred on improving customer experience. At the same time we have implemented the very latest technology across all of our operations again to enhance customer experience and offer more transparency.

When some businesses are looking to reduce headcount we have added nearly 25% more people. Finally we are working on every aspect of business process and customer experience and, without doubt, have seen solid improvements everywhere. In every one of our brands we have witnessed improved customer satisfaction scores as measured by our manufacturer partners and we have increased market share in every brand.

As you walk through the showroom at the end of a long week, which of the current models tugs at you to take it out for the weekend, and why?

That’s a very tricky question and if I answer I am guaranteed to upset four of our manufacturer partners! I’ll take the 5th amendment on this one but it’s safe to say there isn’t a single car in any of our showrooms that I wouldn’t be proud to drive home!

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THE MOTORSPORT CONSULTANT

Eng. Zakaria Dashti Motorsport Consultant to PAS

K

uwait is currently at the back of the grid in the region as far as motorsports facilities go. But there’s new hope, this time in the familiar shape of a good friend of Men’s Passion’s – Zakaria Dashti.

Already well known for his passion for all things auto (particularly Porsche), he’s just been appointed to a new role as Motorsport Consultant at PAS. There’s no question over Zak’s passion for Kuwait to sit at the top table the region’s automobile sector – he’s proved this time after time, notably with his work at the Historical, Vintage and Classic Car Museum and Kuwait’s Concours d’Elegance event.

Now he’s got a new office and hopefully some fresh money to spend. Let’s see what we can expect from him in the future.

When did you take on the new role?

The 10th of October 2016 was my first day in the new role as a consultant to the Public Authority of Sport, helping to improve the motorsport sector in Kuwait. It’s an auspicious date – it was on the 10th of October that we opened the Historical, Vintage and Classic Car Museum and that I lead as Executive Manager in 2009. Now we are off to a new adventure into the motorsport world.

Who do you work with within PAS? I work directly with all motorsport in Kuwait: Land, Sea, and Air! I work with the Kuwait Motor Sport Club, Sheikh Basil Motorsport Club, Kuwait Sea Sports Club and the Kuwait Air Sport Committee. I’m providing technical advice and recommendations to better suit the needs of these clubs and the racers, to try and address challenges that they may face, to guarantee smooth participation, to help them concentrate on one thing only – winning the title and raising Kuwait’s flag on winner’s podiums all over the word.

What are your key initial aims?

Motorsport in Kuwait started a very long time ago and it needs to be updated in the face of the new major projects coming to our country. It needs new laws, structuring, organizing and upgrades. In petrol-head’s language, it needs ‘tuning’ to boost the performance potential of our racers to the limit and beyond.

Where will the funding come from?

We are very lucky to have the sport totally supported by our Government. Huge sums of money are being spent on sport in general, and on motorsport in particular, in providing sports clubs and racers with full support.

THE MOTORSPORT CONSULTANT

When will we see the first tangible steps towards a new era of motorsport in Kuwait?

Hopefully by next season. We’ll spend this year in preparation - approving the new structure, setting targets and defining new laws that will give the required official support for the new structure of motorsport in Kuwait.

What is the timescale of your plan, and what facilities will be ultimately see added to Kuwait?

Our aim is to boost performance and meet the great expectations of our racers. Their current achievements are amazing, and we must match this with organizing the best structure to suit their needs and take their achievement to the next level. At this stage, we are working very close with the motorsports clubs in investigating their challenges and the best way to improve it to better cater for local racers. We’ll add new events, activities, challenges and championships to the motorsport calendar of Kuwait. Also, updating and improving the current temporary facilities to be used until the new race track is ready - by the end of this year, hopefully.

Thanks to this generous gift from our father, High Highness Sheikh Sabah Al-Ahmad Al-Jabber Al-Sabah, God bless him, that honoured all motorists in Kuwait with his generosity and ordered Kuwait Motor City to be built, and by his own patronage and sponsorship.

Thanks to all the people involved, that are making this dream a reality, by the efforts of the dear members of the special committee at the Amiri Diwan who are following this project day by day, and targeting this to be the leading racing circuit in the world.

And we at PAS are also working with motorsport clubs on the initial circuit that was allocated to them, to try and finish it as soon as possible to hold track days and technical testing for teams and racers to train and to improve their skills.

Are you working with regional partners, existing circuits and facilities, in terms of design or advice?

Motorsport is a huge sector and it needs the collaboration of all parties involve, it needs the help and support to be executed in the best way and to be a great success. So, we are working directly with the motorsport clubs and the Kuwait International Automotive Club (KT) - the official representative of many International Federations of Automobile and Bikes. Through the great support provided by them in supporting motorsport in Kuwait with their international connections and expertise in motorsport, we are guaranteed to work only with the best to bring to Kuwait the latest and greatest in motorsport.

Where would you like to see Kuwaiti motorsport in ten year’s time? Hosting international races, as the home to international racing teams, producing more and better drivers?

I guess we will not need to wait that long! We will see some amazing events in the very near future, some of the leading international series as well as some of the most exciting championships and challenges. However, we would like to concentrate more on the next generation of racers, those are the real investment and our future, and we will be starting a special program for motorsport. We will also be working with the Ministry of Interior in helping to reduce the fatality rate on Kuwait’s roads, and will introduce a special international Road Safety Campaign.

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THE MARQUES

Geneva International Motor Show 2017 News of the Marques

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he Geneva Motor Show doesn’t have the most debuts or the biggest attendance, but year after year it always manages to draw plenty of interest from nearly every major auto manufacturer.

Here, we’ve picked our highlights from the 2017 show.

THE MARQUES

In addition to the usual suspects, the Geneva auto show also attracts a large contingent of European design houses that use Geneva’s intimate show floor to display their latest designs. Without a home country to dominate the proceedings, there’s guarantee to be an interesting mix of both production and concept vehicles from every corner of the world. And its place on the calendar each spring gives the European auto manufacturers one last chance to debut new models before the summer selling season.

The Geneva Motor Show is often called “a nice little show” because of its laid-back feel and easy-to-navigate show floor. With only two levels of displays in one giant hall, you can see just about everything on the show floor in one easy lap. Most of the major manufacturers have the kind of large displays you would expect, but the Geneva auto show floor also includes smaller stands where designers and smallvolume specialty builders show off outlandish creations that you’re not likely to find in most auto shows.

Since its start in 1905, the frequency and neutrality of the Geneva auto show has made it a popular place for significant world premieres. Jaguar in particular has brought out some of its most famous nameplates at Geneva auto shows past.

In 1951 it showed off the XK120 coupe, followed 10 years later by the now legendary E-Type. Ten years after that it was the Lamborghini Countach (1971) that drew the stares of show goers in Geneva. Another 10 years on and it was the Audi quattro (1980) making its world debut, followed a year later by the Volkswagen’s Scirocco coupe (1981).

As you can see, no one auto manufacturer can call Geneva home. From the British to the Italians to the Germans, you can find a little bit of everything at the Geneva Motor Show.

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THE MARQUES

Maserati Special Editions

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fter a very successful year of sales, with a record 42,100 cars distributed globally in 2016, Maserati chose the 87th Geneva International Motor Show to introduce its GranTurismo and GranCabrio Sport Special Edition versions. A brand new conceptual Ermenegildo Zegna silk interior in beige was also on show in the SUV Levante.

THE MARQUES

The first Maserati Grand Touring production car was created in 1957; 60 years ago, the 3500 GT made its debut at the Geneva Motor Show, creating a successful market segment, in addition to more than 2200 units sold in both coupe and cabrio versions afterwards. The GranTurismo and GranCabrio Special Editions celebrate the 60th anniversary of that important step in Maserati history and commemorate one of Maserati’s iconic vehicles, while embodying the entire legacy of this glorious brand.

The Special Edition is based on GranTurismo and GranCabrio Sport versions and only 400 units will be produced. The main unique features of these new and exclusive versions include the New Rosso Italiano three-layer paint for the exteriors, reinterpreting the red of Fangio’s 250F - F1 champion in 1957 - and emphasizing the link with Maserati’s heritage. Not to mention the wheels: MC-design 20” alloy wheels with a new Glossy Black finish that matches the Special Edition logo wheel centre caps.

The interiors have also been reimagined: the new interior design revolves around Poltrona Frau leather or leather/ Alcantara upholstery and new interior stitching available in 4 different combinations. Other distinguishing interior details are the door sills in carbon fibre featuring the Special Edition logo and the dedicated plate on the central tunnel with a

carbon fibre holder, commemorating the anniversary and the limited production run of 400 units.

The 2017 Geneva Motor Show also presented the Levante Show Car, featuring the new conceptual Ermenegildo Zegna 100% silk fabric in the cockpit. E. Zegna atelier has developed a new silk fabric specially for Maserati, for a heightened soft touch effect, in a new beige colour. The brand new “Chevron” beige silk fabric is coupled with full premium beige leather on the front and rear seats. The same new beige silk fabric with a “Nattè” pattern, is used to enrich the interior door panels, while a “Jersey” pattern has been chosen for the roof lining and sun visors. A dedicated label featuring the E. Zegna logo highlights the luxuriousness of this interior combination, which is paired with the full premium black leather covering the upper part of the dashboard and the ambient beige cabin.

The new E. Zegna beige interior will further enrich the current line-up of luxury interiors, available in 100% silk in anthracite combined with full premium leather in black, red and tan. The Levante on show is based on the Diesel version, equipped with the 275 hp 3.0-litre V6 Turbo, combined with the “Q4” intelligent all-wheel drive system – which can transfer torque between the axles in just 100 ms and, only when necessary, with 50/50% torque distribution – and an 8-speed automatic gearbox, with integrated Start&Stop System.

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THE MARQUES

BMW i8 Protonic Frozen Black Edition

W

ith the BMW i3 capturing a huge market share, and new special-edition versions of the BMW i8 and additional BMW iPerformance models on the way, the BMW Group is extending its global leadership in the field of sustainable mobility. The BMW i3 is the most successful electric vehicle in the premium compact segment. Likewise, the BMW i8 continues to top its class by a substantial margin. Thanks to the i8 and the BMW iPerformance models, BMW is the world’s most successful maker of plug-in hybrid models in the premium segment. A sales milestone of 100,000 BMWs powered by either an all-electric or plug-in-hybrid drive system was passed in autumn 2016. And the BMW Group is aiming to sell a further 100,000 vehicles featuring BMW eDrive technology in 2017.

THE MARQUES

The line-up of exclusive, limited-run special editions of the BMW i8 plug-in hybrid sports car continues to expand in number. The BMW i8 Protonic Frozen Black Edition, for example, celebrated its world premiere at the 2017 Geneva Motor Show. A BMW Individual Protonic Frozen Black paint finish and bespoke interior styling further accentuate its avant-garde allure. And later in 2017, BMW I will launch the BMW i8 Protonic Frozen Yellow Edition, giving customers another way to experience electrically-powered driving pleasure laced with added exclusivity.

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THE MARQUES

Jaguar I-PACE Concept

T

he Jaguar I-PACE Concept made its European motor show debut at the Geneva Motor Show on 7 March in a new colour - Photon Red.

The I-PACE Concept car is the start of a new era for Jaguar, previewing the brand’s first-ever electric vehicle. This is a production preview of the Jaguar I-PACE, which will be on the road in 2018.

Jaguar’s engineering and design teams have torn up the rule book to create a bespoke electric architecture, matched with dramatic design. The result is a no-compromise smart, five seat sports car and a performance SUV in one.

Ian Callum, Jaguar Director of Design, said: “The I-PACE Concept is a radical departure for electric vehicles. It represents the next generation of battery electric vehicle design. It’s a dramatic, future-facing design – the product of authentic Jaguar DNA matched with beautiful, premium details and British craftsmanship.

“This isn’t just a concept. It is a preview of a five-seat production car that will be on the road in 2018. This will be Jaguar’s first-ever battery-powered electric vehicle and opens a new chapter in the history of our legendary brand.”

THE MARQUES

Aston Martin Valkyrie x Michelin

T

yre manufacturer Michelin was confirmed as the latest technical partner to join the Aston Martin Valkyrie hypercar programme. Founded in 1889, Michelin - one of the largest tyre companies in the world - has been at the forefront of tyre development for almost 130 years.

A world-renowned brand with an enviable reputation, Michelin has vast experience in both the road car and competition car arenas. Winning success in Formula One, the World Endurance Championship, World Rally Championship and MotoGP has seen Michelin engineers push the limits of tyre design: an experience that has driven the development of Michelin’s high-performance road tyres and helped forge a tremendous reputation amongst the world’s supercar owners.

With its high-power, high-downforce, low-weight philosophy the Aston Martin Valkyrie promises to redefine the limits of

road car performance. With many owners certain to explore these limits on a race track, the Aston Martin Valkyrie will put unprecedented demands on its tyres. Though still in the early stages of development, Aston Martin and Red Bull Advanced Technologies can confirm the hypercar will run on Michelin’s Pilot Sport Cup 2 tyres: 265/35 ZR20 at the front; 325/30 ZR21 at the rear. They will be mounted to lightweight magnesium alloy wheels (20 x 9.5J front, 21 x 11.5J rear) featuring race-specification centre-lock nuts to further reduce unsprung mass.

Michelin joins a world-class collective including engine builders Cosworth, transmission experts Ricardo, the carbon fibre structure specialists Mutimatic, leaders in hybrid battery technology Rimac, brake system suppliers Alcon and Surface Transforms, electronics giant Bosch and lighting experts Wipac.

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THE DRIVE

Unleash The Power Driving the Ferrari GTC4Lusso T

T

o get the most out of significant firsts in life, we recommend doing them in the right place.

First opera? La Scala in Milan. First cigar? Meliá Habana Hotel in Cuba. First bespoke suit? Gieves & Hawkes on Savile Row. And for our first drive in Ferrari’s new GTC4Lusso T, where better than Tuscany? So, at the end of March we packed our bags and headed for northern Italy to join an exclusive drive of the great marque’s very latest, and most unique, automobile.

THE DRIVE

Following on from the success of GTC4Lusso T, which raised the performance bar for Ferrari’s traditional fourseater V12 GTs, the Prancing Horse announced the arrival of the new GTC4Lusso T, the first four-seater to be powered by a V8 engine. Ushering in a whole new Ferrari Grand Touring concept, the car is aimed at drivers seeking a car that is sporty and versatile, as well as perfect for driving on a daily basis.

The new GTC4Lusso T is equipped with an evolution of the 3.9-litre V8 turbo which punches out a maximum of 610 cv at 7,500 rpm, guaranteeing powerful acceleration with maximum torque of 760 Nm available between 3,000 and 5,250 rpm. Despite such impressive performance, the GTC4Lusso T’s fuel consumption figures guarantee extended range, ideal for town driving or long trips.

Combining this powertrain with rear-wheel drive has resulted in significant weight-saving. Adding four-wheel steering to the mix gives the car additional agility and quicker responses. The rear-wheel steering system is integrated with the latest evolution of the electronic controls of the SCM-E suspension, ESP 9.0 and third generation Side Slip Control (SSC3).

It’s important to understand that this isn’t merely a turbo-version of the original GTC4Lusso T – instead it is a version for a different dynamic. Ferraris and families aren’t natural bed-fellows, but the GTC4Lusso T is the manifestation of an eminently useable Grand Tourer paired with the finest of sportscar pedigrees. Agile and civilised in city driving and commuting, it’s as lively and precise on twisty backroads as it is powerful and stable on the long stretch.

Powertrain Like every engine to come out of Maranello, the GTC4Lusso T’s V8 turbo has all the classic Ferrari power unit qualities: razor-sharp throttle response, blistering performance, continuous and powerful acceleration at all speeds, an exhilarating soundtrack and compact dimensions. Mounted low down in the chassis, it helps sharpen driving dynamics.

The bad-press that turbos garnered in years gone by is long forgotten. Turbo-lag is well bred out of today’s generation of sports motors, and we’d defy anyone the ability to recognise this as a turbocharged powerplant –the pressure waves on the turbine wheel are equallyspaced for each turbine scroll – the engine is a finelytuned as a Steinway.

The car’s V8 is the latest evolution to emerge from the engine family that was named the 2016 International Engine of the Year. The 3,855 cc power unit is both compact and efficient, developing 610 cv at 7,500 rpm, resulting in a specific power output of 158 cv/l, the highest in its category. It also responds instantaneously to the throttle delivering increasingly powerful acceleration (760 Nm of maximum torque between 3,000 and 5,250 rpm) while optimising fuel consumption.

The instant throttle response typical of Ferrari V8 engines is guaranteed by a flat-plane crankshaft, compact turbines featuring twin-scroll technology and a threepiece cast exhaust manifold and turbo housing, the former with equal-length pipes to optimise pressure waves in the turbine.

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THE DRIVE

The car’s excellent performance across the entire rev range, on the other hand, is the result of intensive research into maximising combustion efficiency. The solutions adopted include high-tumble intake manifolds, specifically shaped to improve air entry to the combustion chamber, an ion-sensing system with adaptive ignition and multi-spark functionality which optimises combustion both under high and partial loads across the engine’s rev range.

One of most innovative features of the GTC4Lusso T’s V8 is Variable Boost Management, a control software that adjusts torque delivery to suit the gear selected, delivering increasingly powerful pick-up as revs rise, whilst optimising fuel consumption. And all without impinging on driving pleasure.

As the car goes up through the gears (from 3rd to 7th), the amount of torque delivered by the engine increases all the way up to 760 Nm in 7th gear. This has allowed Ferrari to adopt longer gear ratios in the higher gears to the benefit of fuel

consumption (the car’s range is, in fact 30 per cent more than the V12-engined model).

Power and torque are essential elements of Ferrari’s DNA – so is noise. Today, even this is managed responsibly too. For a moderated sound within city environments, the turbo V8 operates in ‘valve closed’ setting. In ‘Comfort’ setting, the valve opens to deliver a sound ideal for the city and comfortable on long trips. Click on to ‘Sport’ and you’ll receive a fully engaging sound experience from low through to the highest revs – it’s a Ferrari with manners.

Vehicle Dynamics When Ferrari’s engineers decided to adopt a V8 turbo engine and rear-wheel drive for the GTC4Lusso T, their aim was to modify the vehicle dynamics to give a sportier feel that was coherent with the handling characteristics laid down by the V12 version. A combination of the car’s lighter overall weight and increased weight bias towards the rear (46:54%) allowed the

THE DRIVE

adoption of a specific set-up for the 4WS and SCM – E control systems. These ad hoc vehicle dynamic control systems ensure the GTC4Lusso T feels more nimble and has reduced roll. The feeling of longitudinal performance is enhanced at low speeds

by Variable Boost Management.

Pure Ferrari Designed by Ferrari’s Styling Centre, the GTC4Lusso T maintains the same innovative take on the shooting brake coupé as the V12 version, reinterpreting the concept with an extremely streamlined, tapered shape that gives it an almost fastback-like silhouette. The cabin is an effortless melding of sophisticated elegance – seen in the artisan quality of the prestigious hides - and the high-tech, sporty aspect of the metal or carbon-fibre components mainly found in the humanmachine interfaces.

The GTC4Lusso T features the unique Dual Cockpit architecture, designed to enhance the shared driving experience for both

driver and passenger. It also incorporates the latest iteration of the infotainment system complete with an impressive 10.25” HD capacitive touchscreen.

Available to order are specific tailpipes and 20” forged wheels developed especially for the V8 model with a very dynamic design.

Who’s going to drive the Ferrari GTC4Lusso T? Current Ferrari owners will find the drive recognisable – it may be a fourseater Grand Tourer, but it’s still pure Ferrari. Owners of other marques will find within this new model the unique essence of an Italian thoroughbred – it’s something other brands try to emulate, but simply will never manage. Ultimately it will be driven by men and women with a lust for life, and a passion for fine motor cars that can be driven everywhere.

Where to go to see it for yourself? In Kuwait it’s at Ferrari’s official dealer, the very fine Al Zayani. To drive one you don’t need to speak Italian - but you’ll certainly feel the passion.

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THE DRIVE

My Porsche

“I

n the beginning, I looked around and could not find the car I’d been dreaming of: a small, lightweight sports car that uses energy efficiently. So, I decided to build it myself.”

-FerryPorsche

THE DRIVE

This quote gets to the heart of everything that makes Porsche what it is. As a brand, as a company and as an automotive manufacturer. It has been our ethos for more than 65 years, and it covers all the values that characterise of their work and their vehicles. It’s no wonder; therefore, that no-one can describe this better than the person who created the very first sports car to bear the Porsche name: Ferdinand Anton Ernst or Ferry Porsche, for short.

His dream of the perfect sports car has always driven them throughout the company’s history, and they get closer to achieving it every day. With every concept, every development and every model. Along the way, they follow a plan, an ideal that unites them. They refer to it simply as the Porsche Principle. The underlying principle is to always get the most out of everything. From day one, Porsche have strived to translate performance into speed – and success – in the most intelligent way possible. It’s no longer all about horsepower, but more ideas per horsepower. This principle originates on the race track and is embodied in every single one of their cars. They call it “Intelligent Performance”.

Panamera The all-new Porsche Panamera fuses two contrasting characteristics – the performance of a genuine sports car and the comfort of a luxury salon. The result is both power and comfort in equal measures.

In its second generation, the revitalised Panamera was released in January 2017. Redeveloped from the ground up, modifications included the engine, transmission, chassis and overall design concept to make it a luxury performance icon.

An ambitious sports car that also offers maximum cruising comfort, the Panamera model line features a vast range of options, spanning from the ultra-quick Turbo model all the way through to the environmentally sound E-Hybrid, a model that

is growing in popularity within the region. A unique addition to the model line launching in late 2017, the Panamera Sport Turismo will offer an unmistakable design which stands out from the range due to the large tailgate and low loading edge at the rear.

718 Boxster The 718 Boxster is a mid engine, two-seater compact sports car with turbo at its heart. The sporty two-door model, known as the roadster, is an open-top convertible, which has been a key model in the Porsche family since its introduction in 1996.

Fast forward 11 years and the 718 Boxster has been joined by a fastback coupe version, the 718 Cayman, designed to bear many of the same technological and design elements as the Boxster, yet stands apart due to its defining hard top roof.

The 718 model line is easily recognised by its signature Porsche silhouette and stylish design, which is capable of fitting in on the open roads, the race track and darting through the city centre. With an adjustable soft top and two generous luggage compartments, the sports car offers versatility for both daily use and comfortable journeys.

Cayenne The Porsche Cayenne is the true sports car of the luxury SUV segment. It offers an unrivalled off-road performance without compromising on everyday practicality or comfort, an attribute that gives the model a unique edge.

One of the best-selling models to date, and popular in the Middle East, the Cayenne is designed to provide ample space and comfort for the whole family while maintaining the brand’s sports car credentials. Offering an even more dynamic performance paired with a sharper design, the Cayenne is a model that is equally as efficient on winding roads and rugged terrain, as it is the daily commute or school run.

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PORSCHE EXCLUSIVE

Porsche Exclusive Individuality straight from the factory

T

he moment you decide to ignite your vehicle and embark on a journey into a world of your own, your exclusively customised Porsche ride manifests into your emblem of pride. Porsche Exclusive offers the finest craftsmanship and passion for details to design the car of your dreams to ultimately reflect your personal freedom and individual lifestyle.

Porsche Exclusive stands for what is unique. Individuality straight from the factory represents the zealous process of crafting a number of limited edition models of distinct style and unique features that stand out among the group range. Porsche Centre Kuwait is the first Exclusive Flagship Dealer in the region offering unlimited and exceptional customisation options to its wide base of customers.

Porsche Exclusive further refined the modern classic 911 Targa and developed the 911 Targa 4S Exclusive Design Edition, introducing its one unique model to Kuwait. What other way to celebrate the exclusivity than to host an exclusive event to launch this distinctive model.

Porsche Centre Kuwait also hosted Porsche Exclusive representatives from Germany to address guests at the event on the essence of Porsche Exclusive.

Torsten Horn – Porsche Middle East Can you tell us what Porsche Exclusive stands for and what is the concept behind it?

For more than 30 years, Porsche Exclusive has offered customers the opportunity to tailor and individualise their cars. The programme provides an enhanced purchase experience, with a plethora of personalisation options that guarantee a car as unique as its owner’s fingerprint.

Porsche Exclusive is based on the core principles of individuality, craftsmanship and tradition, combined with the passion for details.

What does Porsche Exclusive mean in terms of further individualisation offered for every Porsche?

The main objective of Porsche Exclusive is to individualise every car during the ordering process, with particular attention to the smallest details. As such, almost every customer desire, no matter how special it may initially appear, can be fulfilled.

Torsten Horn – Porsche Middle East

PORSCHE EXCLUSIVE

The car is, therefore, reflective of the owner’s personality and allows them to set a statement as they embark on the road.

Tailored down to every detail, Porsche Exclusive models reflect the personal freedom and individual lifestyle choice.

Customisable elements range from exterior colours to interiors finished in luxurious materials, such as leather, Alcantara, wood, carbon and aluminum.

How can a Porsche enthusiast be part of Porsche Exclusive?

Firstly, they can purchase one-off Porsche Exclusive models such as the 911 Targa 4S Exclusive Edition. These special models are a showcase of Porsche Exclusive individualization.

Once the models are announced, enthusiasts in Kuwait can contact the Porsche Centre to enquire about the model availability and pre-ordering process for the car.

911 Targa 4S Exclusive Design Edition

Special edition models form part of Porsche Exclusive’s dedication to delivering individuality straight from the factory and reflects a long-standing tradition of crafting limited vehicle projects. With each car, the customer receives a specially designed indoor cover as well as a photo album documenting the production process. Every photo book features the individual vehicle identification number (VIN).

Alternatively, individuals who are already at the consideration phase of their Porsche purchase journey can enlist the help of consultants at Porsche Exclusive Flagship Dealership (of which Porsche Centre Kuwait is one) to understand, decide and develop a Porsche model that meets all their requirements.

What are some of the Porsche Exclusive specifications requested by Middle Eastern markets – and Kuwait specifically?

Porsche owners in the Middle East region are discerning and often fulfill the role of taste makers, as such they ensure that their Porsche is a reflection of their personal style and preference. Amongst the popular individualistaion elements in this region are distinctive exterior colours and interiors finished in luxurious materials such as leather, in colours that complement the exterior of the car.

Alexander Beckmann I Porsche AG Can you tell us about the Exclusive Flagship Dealer Programme?

The Flagship Dealer Programme was established to support customers and dealers in creating their most personal car.

The programme gives consultants at dealerships multilevel training and expert insights. This, therefore, enables a Porsche Centre to provide the highest possible degree of individualization, resulting in an inspiring customer experience.

Alexander Beckmann I Porsche AG

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PORSCHE EXCLUSIVE

Can you explain what you expect from your Flagship Dealers?

Firstly, we expect our Flagship Dealers to be committed to Porsche customers. They show them what is possible, bring their ideas to life and assist in the crucial decision making process. Porsche Exclusive consultants are specifically trained in the area of custom tailoring in order to deliver the highest form of quality, customer satisfaction and personalisation.

Customers expect knowledgeable and comprehensive advice, and we expect our Flagship Dealers to deliver this.

Porsche Crest embossed on headrests

What can you tell us about the newly released Targa 4S Exclusive Design Edition and what makes the car so special?

The Porsche 911 Targa is already a highly recognizable style icon in its own right! A modern classic, this novelty version of the model, raises the appeal further, thanks to the added Porsche Exclusive touch.

The model is presented in the special Etna Blue exterior colour with numerous elements accentuated in White Gold Metallic, while the interior features Graphite Blue leather with decorative stitching in Provence Blue.

Burak Uslu – Porsche AG How many Flagship Dealers are there currently, and in the Middle East region?

There are now more than 70 Flagship dealers currently active in more than 30 countries, including the Middle East region.

The ultimate aim of this programme is to give customers around the world the chance to personalise their Porsche right from the early stages of the the ordering process.

Cayenne S, Palladium Metallic

To make this possible, our consultants maintain close contact with our production teams and receive special training in the area of custom tailoring.

What are the benefits of being part of such a selected small and multi-national community?

The benefits of being part of such a selected small and multi-national Exclusive community are huge. The Exclusive Flagship Dealer teams are given multilevel specialist trainings and have direct support and consultation sessions with Exclusive experts, which provide them with the best business practices for the customers.

What are the main values for the dealership, sales staff and customers?

The values of the Flagship Dealer Programme focus on both the customer and the dealer staff. Our key factors for success include visibility of Exclusive options at the point of sale and overall customer levels of satisfaction upon arrival of their car.

Burak Uslu – Porsche AG

PORSCHE EXCLUSIVE

718 Cayman S, White Metallic Hany Marie – Porsche Centre Kuwait Can you explain the concept behind hosting Porsche Exclusive events in Kuwait?

Porsche Centre Kuwait aims to organize unforgettable events that showcase a selection of vehicles and specialist products from the Porsche Exclusive range. These events also enable us to highlight our status as an Exclusive Flagship Dealer, of which there are only a few here in the Middle East region.

A recent example was our event to showcase the 911 Targa 4S Exclusive Design Edition – a vehicle that reflects the core values of Porsche Exclusive and highlights the endless individualization possibilities on offer. This exclusive event also coincided with the 60th anniversary of Porsche Centre Kuwait, a milestone that we are truly proud of.

What kind of positive experiences are made throughout your participation at the Exclusive Flagship Dealer Programme?

Being part of the Flagship Dealer Programme provides our team with multi-level training and expert insights to equip us with the best business practice to tailor our cars to the special needs of our customers that go above and beyond expectations.

Our highly-trained consultants are always available at Porsche Centre Kuwait to enhance the customers’ authentic Porsche experience and fulfill their dream of creating exclusive personalized vehicles.

What kind of role is Porsche Centre Kuwait playing within this special sales strategy programme?

Porsche Centre Kuwait is one of the active facilities in the region and contributes to a large percentage of the overall Middle East sales records. Over the past years, Porsche Centre Kuwait has asserted its position among the leading centres as we provide our customers with best-in-class services throughout the full stages of their Porsche journey. As a Porsche Flagship Exclusive Dealer, our customers are constantly requesting to know the latest updates and information of all expected exclusive design editions to be announced.

Hany Marie – Porsche Centre Kuwait

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THE BRANDS

Bentley Bentayga MECOTY’s ‘Best Large Premium SUV’

B

entley Motors’ Bentayga, the fastest, most powerful SUV in the world, has been named ‘Best Large Premium SUV’ at this year’s Middle East Car of The Year (MECOTY) Awards.

The prestigious MECOTY 2017 award was presented to Bentley for the Bentayga’s combination of unparalleled luxury and breathtaking performance and was voted on by a jury of motoring journalists representing all six GCC countries as well as Egypt, Jordan and Lebanon.

THE BRANDS

Roman Gavrillon, organiser for the MECOTY Awards 2017, said, “The event marks the fourth year running that MECOTY has brought together an elite group of automotive media experts, who have employed their knowledge and expertise to assess and honour some of the best new models in the industry.”

It was the third regional award win for Bentley’s SUV in the space of a few weeks, following both EVO Middle East and Wheels magazines hailing the Bentayga as their Best Luxury SUV. “From the moment that Bentayga was unveiled, the positive reception it has received from automotive experts and customers alike has been overwhelming,” commented Robin Peel, Head of Marketing and Communications – International for Bentley Motors. “In a region that has so taken Bentley’s SUV to its heart, this MECOTY award clearly demonstrates the appeal of the Bentayga’s incredible levels of innovation, performance, luxury and comfort to its target customer base.”

Designed, engineered and built at Bentley’s headquarters in Crewe, the Bentayga pairs ultimate luxury with sporting performance, demonstrating its unique capabilities both on and off road. Boasting the world’s finest automotive interior, with unrivalled levels of precision; the detailing in leather, metal, and wood only achievable thanks to the exceptional skill of Bentley’s craftsmen.

With an all-new twin-turbocharged 6.0-litre W12 engine at the heart of the Bentayga, the mighty 12-cylinder unit combines efficiency and refinement with ultra-luxurious levels of power and torque. The SUV delivers a 0-100 km/h time of 4.1 seconds and a top speed of 301 km/h.

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THE BRANDS

New Audi R8LMS GT4 Audi Sport customer racing headed for growth

A

t the New York International Auto Show, the Audi R8 LMS premiered in its GT4 version.

Audi Sport GmbH’s customer racing program has been experiencing rapid growth. Audi has been offering the Audi R8 LMS GT3 race car since 2009, followed by the second generation of this success model in 2015, and the RS 3 LMS for the TCR category in 2016. Now Audi Sport’s portfolio of models has been extended once again.

THE BRANDS

The Audi R8 LMS GT4 stands for production-based racing.

It has directly been derived from the road-approved Audi R8 Coupé V10, is powerful and offers a high level of safety. At the same time, it is an affordable choice in terms of purchasing price and cost of ownership. It is the ideal race car for amateur campaigners, in line with the spirit of the GT4 regulations that continue a great sports car tradition, as fascinating roadgoing sports cars were a popular base in GT racing around the world more than half a century ago.

In racing, the audience will be able to see the productionbased Audi R8 LMS GT4 for the first time in the Nürburgring 24 Hours from May 25 to 28. With that, the brand fills another growth category in international motorsport. The GT4 class, which originated in Europe, will be intensively marketed on an international scale starting in 2017, with fielding opportunities in North America, Asia, Australia and Europe. “13 racing series in which GT4 models can compete worldwide already exist today worldwide,” says Stephan Winkelmann, Managing Director of Audi Sport GmbH. “Audi Sport GmbH is one of the leading manufacturers offering cars in the GT3 and TCR customer sport categories. Now we’re targeting the GT4 class at exactly the right time. These fast-growing business segments and the DNA shared by our race cars and production vehicles underscore our ambition to become a true global player in the high- performance league.”

The Audi R8 LMS GT4 shares more than 60 percent of its assembly components with the road-approved Audi R8 Coupé and is produced at the BöllingerHöfe site as well. The customers of the new race car benefit from these synergies in terms of purchasing price and cost of ownership.

Audi Sport is developing the GT4 model, which delivers up to 495 hp depending on its rating, during the course of the 2017 season before a final homologation level has been achieved and approval for racing is requested. During the second half of the year, the team of Chris Reinke, Head of Audi Sport customer racing, will be preparing the production of the race car. Consequently, the first customers will be able to receive the new Audi R8 LMS GT4 before the end of the year.

Around the globe, Audi Sport draws on an extensive network of service, spare parts logistics and professional support for the R8 LMS GT4. Audi Sport customer racing has established this infrastructure for the GT3 project on four continents and, like for the RS 3 LMS, uses this proven network for the GT4 model range as well.

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AUTO HOROLOGY

The Finish Line Auto horology

A

uto racing – the words immediately conjure visions of high-technology vehicles whipping down raceways, of dragsters or Formula Ones, the roar of engines, the smell of rubber burning and the exhilarating feeling that links time and speed.

Hublot Techframe Ferrari Tourbillon Chronograph It is precisely this link, along with several other parallels, that has brought watch companies and automobiles together.

Interestingly, the emergence and rise in popularity of the automobile bears a striking resemblance in time and style to the cultural flourishing of the wristwatch. The earliest 20th century cars and watches were made to exacting standards – points of precision and perfection that have grown and improved over the decades. This ability by both the finest watchmakers and automobile makers to reign supreme in

technology and performance naturally created an undeniable symbiosis.

Indeed, as high tech materials and micro-engineering continue to evolve, watch brands find themselves inspired by the auto industry and pushing their own limits. Today’s brands are getting involved in the world of auto sports in a host of different manners, ranging from creating watches inspired by cars and racing, to sponsoring races, drivers or teams, and creating watches in their honour.

AUTO HOROLOGY

Zenith, El Primero Range Rover Velar Special Edition

Tissot, T-Race MotoGP Automatic Limited Edition 2017

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AUTO HOROLOGY

Graham, Silverstone RS Racing

Cvstos, Challenge Leon X

Chopard Mille Miglia XL Chronograph

AUTO HOROLOGY

TAG Heuer, Manchester United Special Edition Formula 1 Chronograph

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AUTO HOROLOGY

Porsche Design, Monobloc Actuator

Breitling for Bentley, Supersports B55

THE LUXE REVIEW

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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When Form Becomes Performance Precision; speed; perfection Most memorable are those special times in our life when we look at something and we just know it is right. Here, we’ve brought together two of the finest examples of where form becomes performance – Ferrari’s 488 and Hublot’s Ferrari-styled Big Bang Unico.

Car: Ferrari 488 Spider Watch: Hublot Big Bang Ferrari Unico King Gold

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Ferrari 488 Spider

Design is not just what it looks like and feels like. Design is how it works

Ferrari 488 Spider

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Car: Ferrari 488 Spider Watch: Hublot Big Bang Ferrari Unico King Gold

Ferrari 488 GTB Ferrari 488 Spider

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Car: Ferrari 488 GTB Watch: Hublot Big Bang Ferrari Unico Titanium

Perfection is not attainable, but if we chase perfection we can catch excellence

Ferrari 488 GTB

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Great design is born of two things: simplicity and clarity

Kuwait Automobile & Trading Co. Official Ferrari Dealer Kuwait Tel: +965 22255438 www.dealer.ferrari.com/al-zayani Hublot Boutique – Prestige, The Avenues: +965 22200685/6 Al Hamra Luxury Center: +965 22270206 Laila Gallery: +965 25719780/1 Salhia Complex: +965 22464762

Car: Ferrari 488 GTB Watch: Hublot Big Bang Ferrari Unico Carbon

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THE LUXE WATCHES

Marco Tedeschi Hublot

O

f Swiss-Italian origins, Marco Tedeschi grew up and attended school in a region labeled as a cradle of Swiss watchmaking. As a child, he went to his father’s jewellery store every Saturday to admire the watches of the biggest Swiss brands, seeking to understand how their mechanical movements work.

Fast-forward to 2006, and it was a meeting with Jean-Claude Biver, a crucial turning-point for his future that encouraged him to join Hublot. Marco submitted a project to Biver on an innovative movement he had developed in his spare time while attending engineering school. Satisfied by the young man’s notable accomplishment, Jean-Claude Biver asked Marco to join Hublot beginning 2007 while he was still in engineering school, and appointed him Product Manager.

In May 2011, Marco was named Head of the Middle East and Africa markets, in charge of implementing and developing the brand strategy in this very promising area. He set a marketing strategy tailored specifically for the Arab world by organizing exclusive events and creating the first social media accounts for a luxury watch brand. He also expanded the network of Hublot boutiques in those regions while always choosing the most prestigious locations.

In addition to his regional responsibilities, Marco is the brand’s Creative Manager. As a member of the product creation committee, he collaborates closely with Jean-Claude Biver, LVMH Group-President of the Watches Division and HublotChairman of the board, and CEO of Hublot Ricardo Guadalupe on new product designs and setting new trends; his market presence is an important asset on the creative side. He is also responsible for the management of special projects related to brand partnerships.

We met him during one of his regular visits to Kuwait and looked back on 2017’s big announcements from the brand, and the importance he attaches to their local business.

Three versions of the Hublot Techframe Ferrari Tourbillon Chronograph were launched at this year’s Baselworld.

You were there. What was the industry’s reaction?

For me, this was the most successful product at Baselworld for Hublot. The design is new, and there is something really cool about the design – it’s that the watch was designed

THE LUXE WATCHES

together with the Ferrari design department. And you know, when you work with watch designers, you typically end up with the same result. But working with automotive designers they came up with some new ideas.

asked them to design a case for the final movement. I see it that Ferrari are making engines for the road and Hublot are making engines for the wrist. Obviously, there were a series of meetings – the big difference is in our scale of engines.

•Hublot’s relationship with Ferrari already extends back five years. At what point did planning begin for the Techframe Tourbillon?

•Hublot and Ferrari share a passion for precision. What, for you, are the key features of the watches that capture the essence of both brands?

We started this project last year, when we renewed our partnership with Ferrari. The idea was not only to have the regular collection, but also to have something more premium – with complication. So, we gave full liberty to the Ferrari team.

For me, this is not a licencing partnership, it’s a true technical partnership. As we involve them in the design of the watches, it also allowed us to go further in terms of product development. If you look at the different elements of the design you can find similar elements on the car and on the watch. This is really a product made by Ferrari for Ferrari.

For example, the font we use of the watch to indicate the minutes is the same font Ferrari use to indicate the speed in their cars, Small details. And it’s not only in the Techframe – also on the Big Bang Ferrari every detail of the design has a link back to Ferrari.

•What was the extent of cooperation between Hublot and the Ferrari Design Centre in the creation of the watch?

Basically, we present them with the watch movement – this is something they cannot design or create themselves. We gave them a few different options of movements, and we

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THE LUXE WATCHES

You’ve now brought the watches to Kuwait. With just 70 of each model being produced, what’s the availability in Kuwait? We’re guessing, perhaps, already sold out?

It is not even just sold out – it’s effectively over-sold. But this is always the case with such complications of very limited production. We always try to do our best to satisfy our clients.

Kuwait always gets more watches than many other markets though – because there are a lot of watch collectors here and many favouring Hublot. So, just like Ferrari do, we give priority to our existing clients, they who have already bought a few watches from us.

THE LUXE WATCHES

Your partner in Kuwait, the Behbehani Group, recently talked to us about their special relationship with Hublot and how the brand is the youngest manufacture in its portfolio. It’s a mark of how far you’ve come since you were founded in 1980 that you sit alongside heritage companies with centuries of history. What do you attribute your apparently rapid success to?

our clients. We could have the best products and the best marketing – but if we didn’t have the best clients it would be for nothing. We try to get close to our clients, to meet them and to be able to offer something new for them.

It’s an amazing story. Right now, I’m celebrating my tenth year at Hublot, and Mr Biver took the brand only 12 years ago. When I started, there were only 40 employees. Now we’ve got over 1,200 square metres of the latest state of art manufacturing base. There are three elements in our success. The first is the product. With the Big Bang we have had a huge success. For us the challenge was not to turn what was originally a fashion statement in to an icon. After twelve years though, I feel we have succeeded. The same models are still the best selling.

Second is marketing. We have a very aggressive marketing campaign, and work across many areas – especially in sport with Ferrari and in the world of soccer. In fact, in 2006 we were the first luxury brand to enter soccer. Third, but not least, are

This is a long story here. We have a family-relationship with them. My father started this relationship with them - he was running this market before me. And now my brother and I are taking care. This is more than a business relationship, it is about families too. It’s one of the key elements of our success.

How has your partnership with the family facilitated your success in Kuwait?

Of the three versions - King Gold, Titanium, and PEEK Carbon – which would be the choice to sit on your wrist?

For me, I like titanium. Although it would be difficult for me to choose before carbon fibre and titanium, I like the contrast we show on the titanium watches. My brother chose the carbonso perhaps we’ll gift our father the gold!

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THE LUXE WATCHES

Patek Philippe Calatrava Graphic elegance

P

atek Philippe’s new Ref. 6006G Calatrava is an elegant timekeeping instrument with an analog date and a seconds subdial that pays tribute to the 40th anniversary of the caliber 240 movement in special ways.

The unorthodox position of the subsidiary seconds dial between 4 and 5 o’clock is a design peculiarity of the caliber 240 PS. When the Ref. 5000 had its world debut in 1991, this feature attracted considerable attention and established itself as part of the model’s DNA. The new Calatrava Ref. 6006 in 18K white gold replaces the watches of the 6000 series launched in 2005.

Subtly reworked, it further enhances the elegance of it sleek geometric design vocabulary. The classic round case was enlarged from 37 mm to 39 mm, adding elegance to the watch and highlighting its intrinsically slender proportions. Thus, it offers, even more, space for the dial with Arabic numerals, a date scale on the outermost periphery, and a seconds subdial between 4 and 5 o’clock. All of these elements assure excellent legibility.

The architecture of the dial with several circles in ebony black and silvery colorations as well as alternating sunburst and guilloched finishes underscore the artistically impressive graphic look of the watch. Longitudinally pierced, white lacquered baton-style hour and minute hands hover above the dial. Even though they are clearly wider, they still have a very lightweight appearance. The date hand is tipped with a red-lacquered arrow, creating a distinctive contrast against the black dial and the white date numerals.

The ultra-thin self-winding anniversary caliber 240 PS C movement can be admired through the sapphire-crystal case back that also reveals the off-center 22K gold mini rotor which is integrated into the movement. A shiny black alligator strap complements the distinctive elegance of the watch. It is secured with a fold-over clasp in 18K white gold.

THE LUXE WATCHES

Calatrava Squelette Exceptionally transparent elegance

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s it turns 40, nothing spotlights the distinctiveness of the ultra-thin self-winding caliber 240 movement as prominently as the skeletonized Calatrava that has been a part of Patek Philippe’s regular collection since 2008.

As of 2017, the new Calatrava “Squelette� Ref. 5180/1R in 18K rose gold 5N showcases the extremely rare craft of skeletonization alongside magnificent engravings to imbue the elegant mechanism with enigmatic sensuousness. The aesthetic appeal and transparency with which the caliber 240 SQU keeps track of time makes it a miniature opus of kinetic art. The plate and bridges are pierced to the maximum extent possible to create a seductive view without compromising the reliability and functional integrity of the movement.

More than a week of work is required to complete the elaborate skeletonization process. Then, the movement is entrusted to the hands of the engraver who further refines it with his artisanal skills. He invests more than 130 hours to decorate the remaining structures with vivid arabesques and volutes. In the end, the skeletonized movement chassis is plated with rose gold and then polished to match the case and bracelet. Now decidedly a work of art, the self-winding caliber 240 SQU is framed by a movement holder ring in 18K rose gold 5N. The ring itself is also skeletonized down to 12 spokes that serve as hour markers. The assembled movement is accommodated in a rose-gold Calatrava case that puts the focus on the heart of the watch. With its large-format sapphire crystal glass and display back, the case assures total transparency yet offers optimized protection and water resistance to 3 bar (30 meters). The watch is worn on a supple bracelet in 18K rose gold, safely secured with a fold-over clasp.

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THE LUXE WATCHES

L.U.C Full Strike

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A crystal-clear sound

s the crowning point of the celebrations marking the 20th anniversary of Chopard Manufacture, Chopard launches its first ever minute repeater: the L.U.C. Full Strike, featuring a number of world première features. Striking the hours, quarters and minutes on sapphire gongs, this standout model is in a league of its own thanks to its original construction, the excellence of its Poinçon de Genève finishing, and above all its extraordinary sound. This refined and easy-wear model epitomises the best of the Chopard Manufacture expertise, inventiveness, and quality.

THE LUXE WATCHES

The accomplished, expert and versatile Chopard Manufacture has been working for more than six years on its most sophisticated chiming watch to date. The L.U.C collection already included the L.U.C Strike One model launched in 2006, which chimes each striking hour.

The collection now welcomes a minute repeater entirely developed, produced and assembled by Chopard: the L.U.C Full Strike. This distinguished 42.5 mm-diameter watch in Fairmined rose gold with an open worked dial houses a substantial number of technical solutions that make it one of the most innovative minute repeaters on the market.

The L.U.C Full Strike is an exceptional watch that chimes the hours, quarters and minutes on transparent crystal gongs.

These sapphire rings are an integral part of the watch glass, which creates a perfect loudspeaker faithfully to diffuse the chimes of the hammers striking the sapphire. This is a unique technical solution which is visible at 10 o’clock and results in a tone of matchless purity that is rich and full, powerful and resonant. The traditional metaphorical description of a sound as, “crystal-clear” takes on a very literal meaning here. The L.U.C Full Strike chimes as a silver knife were delicately tapping a Bohemian crystal glass placed on the table of a gourmet restaurant.

Chopard’s watchmaking creativity Behind this acoustic result lies one of the most sophisticated and inventive movements ever created by Chopard Manufacture. Almost 17,000 hours of development have been lavished on the development of calibre 08.01-L, which is subjected to three pending patents. Chopard has found all-new in-house responses to historical issues relating to the nature of the gongs, as well as to the operation and ergonomics of the striking system as a whole.

In particular, this movement comprises a series of security systems that protect it from all the inappropriate handling operations that can damage minute repeaters. Its crown serves to wind the movement in one direction, and its striking mechanism in the other. The L.U.C Full Strike thus accumulates enough energy to strike 12:59 – the longest time in the minute repeater repertoire – 12 times. It is equipped with a double power-reserve indicator positioned at 2 o’clock and featuring two superimposed hands respectively indicating the striking-mechanism reserve and the movement’s autonomy.

The true strength of the L.U.C Full Strike resides in the fact that this impressive array of technical prowess goes discreetly unnoticed on the wrist, thanks to a thoroughly

refined watch bearing the Poinçon de Genève quality hallmark. Pressing the crown-integrated pusher causes it to chime the hours, quarters and minutes, to the delight of its owner and those around him.

The strength and purity of sound The L.U.C Full Strike has its own unique sound signature.

The sound it produces is not metallic, cold or abrupt, but instead full-bodied and truly crystal-clear. The gongs are tuned to two notes: C and F. Their chime lingers pleasingly, with a very low sound-deadening factor. The tonal richness boasts unprecedented amplitude since this is the first time that sapphire is used as a generator. Sapphire also plays the role of the acoustic amplifier.

Finally, the L.U.C Full Strike astonishes by the intensity of its chime. This is not a goal in itself for Chopard, which would never seek to achieve it to the detriment of sound quality. Throughout the 16 seconds that the watch takes to strike 12:59, it chimes in a uniform manner, a result that is extremely hard to achieve and in itself represents an important horological accomplishment.

Between notes In music, silence is as important as the notes themselves.

For a minute repeater, silence is equally important and Chopard has developed the L.U.C Full Strike with this in mind. The rotations of the strike governor – the component that gives the striking mechanism its rhythm – are visible at 8 o’clock. While this part may sometimes emit a humming sound, that of calibre L.U.C 08.01-L is entirely inaudible.

While components used for the striking mechanism sometimes make a clicking sound at the end of the tune, the L.U.C Full Strike does no such thing. Finally, it resolves one of the most disturbing problems faced by a minute repeater: the silence between the last hours stroke and the first quarters stroke, which may vary according to the specific quarter-hour to be struck.

In simple terms, the minute repeater sequence comprises one time-window for hours, another for the quarter-hours and a third for the minutes. A chime is thus generally punctuated by long silences, during which the watch owner must wait and may, in fact, wonder whether the watch is still working. The structure of calibre L.U.C 08.01-L enables it to skip these silences automatically. Its hours, quarters and minutes gear trains are superimposed and mutually drive each other. When one has completed its task, it automatically triggers the next, maintaining a constant cadence, however, many strokes are to be chimed subsequently.

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THE LUXE WATCHES

The Tourbillon Legend. Reinvented. from de Grisogono

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wo years ago, Fawaz Gruosi unveiled a timepiece that he had long since dreamed of: the New Retro collection. Seven years of research and development have been lavished on shaping a rectangular case graced with softly rounded angles and elegant, well-controlled curves. A minimalist watch whose complexity stems from its construction, featuring a case composed of two cambered and perfectly matched sapphire crystals, elegantly united by a slender ribbon of gold.

Symbolising the philosophy driving Fawaz Gruosi since the creation of the Maison de GRISOGONO, the New Retro Skeleton Tourbillon admirably embodies this new take on watchmaking tradition: daring to create shapes that highlight functions, to develop original complications, to play with aesthetic codes, to magnify the art of time measurement.

For 24 years, it has been consistently making an impression with a string of surprising and quirky designs.

Brilliantly escaping the bonds of existing conventions, de GRISOGONO has developed an exclusive movement with an original construction. As if suspended inside the case and held by majestic bridges with an architecture evoking the grilles of vintage cars, the tourbillon flaunts its free-spirited attitude at 3 o’clock. This skeletonised movement is elegantly framed by a sapphire crystal case offering a panoramic vision of time. A movement playing with symmetrical and asymmetrical effects, epitomising its unique and daring style.

This in-line skeleton movement flaunts its non-conformist appearance and reveals its intricate inner workings in an oblong format smoothly embracing the case middle. At 3 o’clock, the heart of the movement – the balance-wheel, balance-spring and escapement – and its 83 components defy gravity. The black rhodium-plated and gold decorated upper and lower bridges of the tourbillon carriage, holding the entire movement, are graced with alternating sandblasted and horizontal satin finishing. They feature hand-polished chamfers that called for more than 60 hours of work. The sunburst barrel with its openworked scrolling motif, reveals tantalising glimpses of its spring, while the ratchet wheel plays on the contrast between the sunburst swirls and a black lacquer coating.

This original construction pays tribute to the past and to one of the noblest inventions, patented in 1801, while offering a vision firmly embedded in the present.

THE LUXE WATCHES

Tissot T-Touch Expert Solar II It’s time for an adventure

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he Tissot T-Touch Expert Solar II is ready for an adventure. It will help you face the challenges of the wild or of a big city. The dial is equipped with a solar panel to recharge the battery with sunlight and even artificial light without which it will last up to a year. The compass will guide you, the altimeter will show you how high you have gone with a relative air pressure indicator. Additionally, it offers a regatta function, backlight, chronograph add/split/lap, azimuth, logbook, timer, 2 alarms, 2 time zones, perpetual calendar with day, and week indicator. A true instrument.

Military or Navy The design of the Tissot T-Touch Expert Solar will blend into the environment like a true camouflage. There is a Military green version that features a compass rose in the top half of the dial for the adventures on land. The Navy blue model, which has double baton indices on a dotted background, contrasted by lines on the top centre of the dial with a minute indicator in-between, is for those at sea. Both have matching

scratch-resistant ceramic bezels with a luminescent compass rose. The silicone bracelets make them not only comfortable but easy to clean after crawling in the mud or through the seaweed. Adding to their wearability is their titanium case making them extra-light and hypoallergenic. The standard buckle can be used to tie the watch to a rucksack in extreme conditions. It’s time for you to take on your own mission with a Tissot T-Touch Expert Solar II.

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THE LUXE WATCHES

Omega Paying tribute to Speedmaster fans

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s the OMEGA Speedmaster turns 60 this year, the brand is proudly celebrating not just the watch, but also the people who wear it.

Many stories have been told of the astronauts, explorers and racing car drivers who have trusted the Speedmaster throughout its lifetime, but today, there is a truly diverse community of fans from all over the world.

In tribute, OMEGA has tracked down just some of these fans and brought them together in a series of revealing portraits.

From actors and chefs to athletes and fashion experts, these people all have one thing in common: They love OMEGA’s famous chronograph. And they have all been photographed to show that the Speedmaster is always close to their wrists, as well as their hearts.

Many of the Speedmaster fans may be well-known to the public, such as the Brazilian model Alessandra Ambrosio,

Italian chef Massimo Bottura and German DJ Robin Schulz.

There are also many other names from a broad range of industries and countries.

Each picture will be presented on a dedicated section of OMEGA’s website and visitors can explore each one to understand just how far-reaching the chronograph’s influence has become. Visitors can also upload their own pictures taken in a similar style, with OMEGA choosing the best ones to be included on the site.

Through social media, OMEGA is boosting the campaign through the #SpeedmasterFans tag, which will further encourage everyone everywhere to get involved and share their love.

THE LUXE WATCHES

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THE LUXE WATCHES

Global launch of Conquest V.H.P. A new milestone for quartz technology

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ongines has leveraged its outstanding expertise in quartz technology to create the ultimate high-precision wristwatch: the all-new Conquest V.H.P. This collection constitutes another milestone in the history of quartz timepieces, successfully incorporating many features of today’s smart connected watches, such as ultra-precision, technical sophistication, and a sporty feel, without any of the drawbacks, and all this while preserving the brand’s signature elegance.

THE LUXE WATCHES

The watch also has an in-built system that resynchronises the hands after exposure to a shock or a magnetic field, a world first that guarantees timekeeping which is as accurate as the new-generation quartz movement itself. Around 100 journalists from across the globe had the opportunity to see this technological breakthrough for themselves as part of a guided tour of the history of the watchmaking brand.

For Longines, the Conquest V.H.P. signals a return to a technology that it has pioneered and perfected over the years, especially in relation to its timekeeping activities. The global launch of the new Conquest V.H.P. (Very High Precision) was held at Neuchâtel Observatory, a setting as spectacular as the timepiece itself. It was also at this iconic venue that the first quartz clock by Longines set a series of precision records back in 1954. Some 100 journalists and influencers from around the world attended the unveiling of this collection that celebrates precision and perfection. In this intimate and informal setting, Mr Walter von Känel, President of Longines, and Mr Juan-Carlos Capelli, Vice-President of Longines and International Marketing Director, accompanied guests on a fascinating journey through the history of Longines and its close relationship with quartz technology, from the very early days right through to the 2017 launch of the new Conquest V.H.P. The winged hourglass brand is now presenting its new Conquest V.H.P., equipped with a movement developed by the ETA manufacturing company exclusively for Longines. This movement is renowned for its high degree of precision for an analog watch (± 5 s/yr) and its ability to reset its hands after an impact or exposure to a magnetic field, using the GPD (gear position detection) system. These attractive features are likely responsible for its exceptional movement status, to which a very long battery life and a perpetual calendar must be added.

In the true essence of Conquest, the ultimate sports line, this exceptional timepiece brings together high technicality and dynamic aesthetic. In its own way, and compared to connected watches whose disadvantages in terms of waves and recharging batteries it does not have, the Conquest V.H.P. has positioned itself as the standard-bearer of extreme precision.

These steel watches are available in the 3 hands/calendar (41 and 43 mm diameter cases) and chronograph (42 and 44 mm diameter cases) versions. The chronograph displays hours, minutes and seconds, a 30-minute counter at 3 o’clock, a 12-hour counter at 9 o’clock and a 60-second counter in the centre. On each model, changes are made using the intelligent crown, while the E.O.L. indicator can preventatively signal the end of battery life. The Conquest V.H.P. collection models display blue, carbon, silvered or black dials. A steel bracelet with a folding safety clasp completes this exceptional piece.

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THE LUXE WATCHES

Panerai Classic Yachts Challenge 2017 The 13th edition of the leading international circuit for the Grandes Dames of the sea

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he Panerai Classic Yachts Challenge has long been acknowledged as the leading international circuit for classic and vintage sailing yachts. Celebrating its 13th outing in 2017, the circuit spans 10 of the world’s most fascinating and maritime tradition-rich regattas on a calendar that has become a reference point for lovers of the stunning beauty, glorious history and absolute uniqueness of all classic craft.

THE LUXE WATCHES

Luminor 1950 PCYC Regatta 3 days chrono flyback automatic Acciaio – 44mm “I can say with great pride that our commitment to safeguarding and fostering classic sailing is both unparalleled and unprecedented on an international level,” declared Officine Panerai CEO Angelo Bonati. “This is our 13th consecutive year to sponsor the circuit and throughout that long period, we have seen many extraordinary events flourish with us and witnessed the rebirth of some stunning vintage craft because of the commitment and passion of many enthusiasts”.

As per tradition, the Panerai Classic Yachts Challenge rounds in France (Antibes, Cannes), Italy (Argentario) and Spain (Mahon on the island of Minorca) comprise the Mediterranean Circuit. The yachts participating in each of the events on the Circuit build up points which go towards winning the overall Trophy. In previous years, the latter has been won by some of the most famous craft in sailing history, not least creations by the illustrious likes of William Fife III (Cambria built in 1928, Mariquita built in 1911, Moonbeam IV built in 1914) and Nathanael Greene Herreshoff (Chinook built in 1916 and Leonore built in 1925) as well as Italian Naval vessels (Chaplin built in 1974 and Stella Polare built in 1965), past Olympic stars (Bona Fide built in 1899, gold medallist at the Paris Olympics in 1900) and those with history-making owners (Manitou built in 1937, once owned by President John Fitzgerald Kennedy).

Luminor 1950 PCYC Regatta 3 days chrono flyback automatic Titanio – 47mm Also participating in the Mediterranean regattas will be Eilean, the Bermudan ketch designed in 1936 by William Fife III and acquired in 2009 by Officine Panerai which then restored and relaunched her.

The Marblehead, Newport, Nantucket and Bristol regattas allows participating boats to compete for the second Panerai Classic Yachts Challenge Trophy, which is presented to the winner of the North American Circuit, staged each August and September in the waters of New England. For the last two years, the North American Trophy has been in the hands of Siren, a member of the NY-32 class designed in 1936 by Olin Stephens of the legendary Sparkman & Stephens.

Aside from the two overall Mediterranean and North American Trophies, the winners of the individual events - including the Antigua Classic Yacht Regatta and the Panerai British Classic Week, which for geographical reasons are not included in either Circuit – will receive a Panerai watch as their prize.

Since it designed and produced the first watch for the Italian Royal Navy’s specialist diving corps in 1936, Panerai has been creating precision instruments that combine striking Italian design with leading-edge Swiss watchmaking technology, making them ideal for sea-lovers.

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THE LUXE WATCHES

CALENDAR 2017 ANTIGUA CLASSIC YACHT REGATTA: 19th – 25th April 2017 LES VOILES D’ANTIBES: 31st May – 4th June 2017 ARGENTARIO SAILING WEEK: 15th – 18th June 2017 PANERAI BRITISH CLASSIC WEEK: 8th – 15th July 2017 MARBLEHEAD CORINTHIAN CLASSIC YACHT REGATTA: 11th – 13th August 2017 NANTUCKET REGATTA: 18th – 19th August 2017 NANTUCKET OPERA HOUSE CUP: 20th August 2017 BRISTOL, HERRESHOFF CLASSIC YACHT REGATTA: 25th August 2017 NEWPORT CLASSIC YACHT REGATTA PRESENTED BY IYRS: 26th – 27th August 2017 MAHON, XIV COPA DEL REY DE BARCOS DE EPOCA: 29th August – 2nd September 2017 CANNES, RÉGATES ROYALES: 26th – 30th September 2017 The classic yachts which are such an impressive spectacle at the gatherings of the Panerai Classic Yachts Challenge emanate a timeless fascination, with the simplicity and elegance of their lines and the perfection of their design. Today these remarkable yachts are classics, but when they were designed by the best naval architects of the last century they were at the forefront of technology. The same spirit is found in the new Luminor 1950 Regatta PCYC 3 Days Chrono Flyback Automatic, one of the watches created by Panerai to celebrate the world of classic yachting.

The new Luminor 1950 Regatta PCYC 3 Days Chrono Flyback Automatic has all the characteristics which have made the Luminor 1950 one of the international icons of high quality sports watchmaking, with the technical excellence of the P.9100/R movement, designed by the Panerai Manufacture in Neuchâtel to provide yacht racing enthusiasts with a watch able to measure the countdown marking the start of a race.

THE LUXE WATCHES

Diver Le Locle Ulysee Nardin pays homage to the past

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ince 1846, when naval commanders and merchant captains the world over came looking for Ulysse Nardin’s marine and pocket chronometers, the company has been building on his winning approach of timekeeping inno-vation and precision. Every decade since then has seen its share of prize-winning innovative timepieces come out of the manufacture in Le Locle, Switzerland.

These mechanical timepieces provide a perpetual source of inspiration, both for collectors who appreciate their eternal beauty and continued performance, and for the watchmakers at the Swiss manufacture.

Today, the release of the Diver Le Locle timepiece celebrates this illustrious history with resolutely modern aplomb.

Inspired by a 1964 model from the house collection, this diving watch might look like the vintage original, but the technology is pure 2017.

A self-winding UN-320 manufacture movement integrates silicium technology. The timepiece has as well under-gone the stringent Ulysse Nardin certification process.

A magnified date at 3 o’clock can be quickly set both forwards and backwards – Ulysse Nardin mechanical inno-vation at its best. And the Diver Le Locle is a diving watch to its core, as the legible Super Luminova indexes, uni-directional bezel and 100 m water-resistance can attest.

It’s a diver in the details as well: the case-back reveals a unique engraving of a diver in the depths of the sea, and the strap is durable sailcloth.

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THE LUXE WATCHES

The iconic RadoCeramica

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Watchmaker adds three new pieces to redesigned collection

wiss watchmaker Rado made waves last year with the relaunch of its iconic RadoCeramica collection. Teaming up with renowned industrial designer Konstantin Grcic, the brand updated its well-known, starkly geometric timepiece with a contemporary new look for the current zeitgeist.

Now three new additions to the Ceramica family have arrived and are ready to make a bold impact on the wrist.

THE LUXE WATCHES

With strong lines and gently curved silhouettes, these three new Ceramicas are ideal for fans of minimalism. Following the success of the two matt Ceramicas that were unveiled last year, another model in matt black high-tech ceramic has been added to the collection.

For a softer look that is no less visually compelling, two models in grey high-tech ceramic are also available. The polished grey version features the same Super-LumiNova® indexes as its matt black counterpart, while the dial of the matt grey version boasts a vertically brushed finished and concave dots that function as indexes. This collection marks the first time that automatic movements have been used in the Ceramica family.

Greyscale cool As the name indicates, the Ceramica is made from hightech ceramic, a material favoured by luxury watchmakers for its incredible marriage of lightness and scratch resistance.

The aesthetic properties of high-tech ceramic are no less impressive: An astonishing range of colours and finishes can be crafted from this futuristic material, which was first used in the medical and aerospace industries before Rado pioneered its

use in watchmaking. High-tech ceramic is also hypoallergenic and adapts readily to the wearer’s body temperature, making it gentle and comfortable against the skin.

Seven high-tech ceramic colours – black, white, plasma, grey, brown, green and blue – are now featured in Rado’s collections.

The launch of the grey Ceramica marks the first time that this high-tech ceramic colour has been featured in the Ceramica family. Grey high-tech ceramic has debuted in the Ceramica collection with two finishes: a subtle, earthy sandblasted matt and a perfect high-gloss polish, a testament to the versatility of this remarkable material.

For designer Konstantin Grcic, colour functions as a kind of coding: “Applied to an object, colour is both functional and emotional. For example, a black watch is perceived to be elegant, but also quite masculine, professional. A grey watch, in comparison, is less gender specific. The colour has a contemporary connotation. It feels younger, less classical.”

For Rado, colour means not only something beautiful to behold but also represents the brand’s dedication to technical achievement and drive for innovation.

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THE LUXE STYLE

Corneliani

Spring Summer 2017 Collection

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here are many ways to take one’s place in the world. Choosing Corneliani means doing so in a way that is discreet and informed. By giving traditional codes their dues and harmoniously blending craftsmanship and technology, Corneliani’s style means garments that are predominantly deconstructed and unlined, and therefore extremely light, thanks to exclusive fabrics such as Flawless and Savor. Double-breasted, single-breasted with two buttons, frisé and printed yarns, pinstripes and over-checks are all present in the most classic colours, including blue and desert shades ranging from burnt earth to dark brown, with flashes of shaded emerald.

THE LUXE STYLE

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THE LUXE STYLE

Dressed For Success Hugo Boss sponsors the world’s most prestigious soccer teams

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ynamism, perfection, precision. It is on these shared values that HUGO BOSS has built sponsorships with sport’s leading talents in the fields of golf, motorsports, sailing and soccer. HUGO BOSS’s sponsorship of soccer encompasses some of the world’s most prestigious and successful clubs and Germany‘s national soccer team.

The German National Team

Paris Saint-Germain

Since June 2013, HUGO BOSS has been the official fashion outfitter of Germany‘s national soccer team and its under-21 squad. Alongside a sharp business ensemble for official events, a laid-back travel outfit provides a casual and comfortable look, perfect for when the team is on the go. National coach Joachim Löw and the coaching staff are wearing custom-tailored suits fromBOSS MADE TO MEASURE.

As Paris Saint-Germain’s official fashion outfitter, HUGO BOSS continues to suit the current Ligue 1champions and define the team’s modern, elegant look for the 2016/2017 and 2017/2018 seasons. The successful partnership between Paris SaintGermain and the Metzingen-based fashion brand was launched in2014. As part of this agreement, the players, their coach, and assistants will wear BOSS suits during their official appearances for home matches in Ligue 1 and the UEFAChampions League.

Real Madrid The most successful team in Europe, Real Madrid is outfitted in elegant BOSS looks for their global schedule. The world renowned club wears BOSS during the course of 2016/2017, which is set to be an exciting season, as the players defend their title as Champions League winners. Based on an agreement sealed in July 2016, the partnership also covers the squad of the club’s second team Real Madrid Castilla and its basketball team Real Madrid Baloncesto.

Liverpool F.C. The successful partnership between Liverpool and HUGO BOSS was launched in 2015 and has been renewed for2016/2017. The hugely popular Liverpool Football Club wears sharp BOSS looks at all official engagements for the season. With an exciting time ahead, the teamplay for the second year under the watchful eye much-loved coach Jürgen Klopp, who is training them to peak performance for the matches to come.

THE LUXE STYLE

The German National Team

Liverpool F.C.

Paris Saint-Germain

Real Madrid

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THE LUXE STYLE

Tumi Spring 2017

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rom extended trips to the daily commute, the landscape of travel has evolved from linear journeys to the multi-faceted and inter-connected. Surroundings and situations may change but the need for stylish, trustworthy and multifunctional travel pieces remains the same.

As a brand in motion, TUMI continues to redefine the travel experience for Spring 2017 by helping Global Citizens perfect their journeys every day. This season’s collections take on a fresh look with a mix of classic neutrals and bright, playful hues inspired by Havana, the vibrant capital city of Cuba. A bustling metropolis trapped in time, this mystifying place is a combination of past and present: colonial-era architecture meets modernity set against a backdrop of a rich and lively culture. The exhilarating color palette and strong prints reflect the influence of Cuba’s historic and well-preserved architecture TUMI remains the ultimate travel companion for mega-tasking Global Citizens whose ever-changing schedules demand the very best in quality, style and functionality.

TUMI V3, a clear-cut expression and display of TUMI’s design leadership, showcases a balance between performance,

structure and strength. Designed for travelers who value TUMI for its time-tested endurance, these bags are constructed from a multi-layer polycarbonate shell, engineered to offer unparalleled strength and impact resistance at a very light weight. The flexibility of the material allows for maximum resistance to cold impact cracking and corner crushing, while the contoured exterior ensures resiliency and reduces signs of wear, making these wheelaways the consummate travel companion for any adventure. The V3 cases will be offered in the full range of carry-on and check-in pieces, ranging from a Compact Four-Wheeled Carry-On through a Worldwide Trip Packing Case. These styles will be offered in classic Black and a range of colorful hues and prints evoking the flora and fauna of Havana, including Banana Leaf Print, Magenta, Pacific Blue and Blur Print.

THE LUXE STYLE

Tom Ford Private Blend Vert De Fleur

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rivate Blend Vert De Fleur strikes an alluring note on the definitive theme of 70s glamour.

Refined with a modern flourish of iris and hyacinth, Vert de Fleur is Tom Ford’s floral subversion of classic green and captures an exuberant scene where beautiful icons with inimitable personas uncover a new world of pleasure.

The fragrance opens with emergent hyacinth and galbanum notes wrapped in a refined embrace of neroli, bergamot and basil. A velvet floralcy lies at the heart of the scent, which includes a luxurious blend of iris butter, jasmine sambac and rose balanced by orange flower.

Woody notes include warm vetiver and patchouli against dark oakmoss and brilliant green, harmonizing the composition for a seductive finish.

Private Blend Vert de Fleur marks the fourth fragrance within the Tom Ford Private Blend Les Extraits Verts Collection and will debut in select retailers worldwide.

Tom Ford Private Blend Vert De Fleur is available at all Tom Ford Beauty Counters and Boutiques from May 2017.

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THE LUXE SPORTS

Great drive!

Audi drivers swap highways for fairways

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udi customers in Kuwait showed off driving skills of a different kind last month, teeing off at the annual Audi quattro Cup tournament. The prestigious and hugely popular event saw 50 teams of golfers battling it out for much more than bragging rights against fellow Audi owners over the demanding fairways and greens of the Sahara Golf Club.

The Audi Kuwait customers drove, chipped, pitched and putted their away around the challenging 18 holes in the hope of putting themselves in pole position to win the Audi quattro Cup Kuwait and a trip of a lifetime for a place in the Audi quattro Cup World Final, from December 1-5, 2017, at Quivira Golf Club in Cabo San Lucas, Mexico.

After some scintillating competition in an action-packed day, the battle for top honours was an extremely tight finish.

The leading three pairs all scored 44 stableford points, with Mohammad Baba and Khaled Saad AlSabah winning on a countback to take first place and the coveted prize of a place in the world final in Mexico. Talal Al Othman and Hanadi Al Marzouq finished second, with Wael Al Welayti and Fadia Emadi collecting third place. Khaled Saad Al Sabah was in the prizes again on the course, securing Nearest the Pin on Hole 11 and Andy Palmer picked up Nearest the Pin on

Hole 4. Kyung O/C Hyun demonstrated her power with the Longest Drive on Hole 13.

The Audi quattro Cup Golf Tournament Series is world’s most renowned amateur golf tournament and celebrates its 27th anniversary this year. During 2017, over 800 rounds of golf will be played by more than 100,000 competitors in more than 50 countries. The special series sees every winning team from the regional tournament invited to the national final with the chance to qualify for the World Final.

The format of the Audi quattro Cup tournament involves both players in a team teeing off on every hole, then choosing the best tee shot and playing alternate shots from there until the ball is holed, with the Stableford format used to score each team. The team that scores the most points wins the tournament.

THE LUXE SPORTS

Sergio Garcia’s “Green Jacket” Moment With his Black and Blue Omega

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ergio Garcia won The Masters and claimed his first ever Major Championship. The Spaniard played sublimely throughout the four-day tournament at Augusta and, with a dramatic finish, finally achieved his golfing dream.

After sinking his winning putt in the play-off against Justin Rose, Garcia made his way to the clubhouse to claim the famous “Green Jacket” which has been worn by some of the golf’s most iconic names. On his wrist at that moment, Sergio wore an OMEGA Seamaster Planet Ocean “Deep Black” – a superb watch in black and blue that matches his style and precision on the course.

To bring him luck, Garcia received the watch on Wednesday, just one day before the tournament began. He proudly shared a close-up picture on his Instagram account and still had the timepiece with him as he hoisted the Masters Trophy.

Sergio Garcia has been closely associated with OMEGA since 2003. Raynald Aeschlimann, the President, and CEO of OMEGA sent his congratulations after The Masters win. “Sergio has proven that great things come with time.

We always believed in him. He is a player that shows his emotions and that win was a perfect display of who he is as a person. The final round was incredibly close and was such a great advertisement for the sport of golf. The fact that Sergio won and clinched his first Major title was the perfect way for it to end.”

The victory follows Sergio’s win earlier in the season at the OMEGA Dubai Desert Classic. And more success is sure to follow.

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THE LUXE YACHTS

Couach

A double celebration

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rench custom superyacht builder Couach is celebrating the start of its 120th anniversary year with the completion of not one but two landmark projects. The Arcachon-based company launched the fifth unit of its 2300 FLY model at the end of March and is preparing her for delivery.

Couach also recently delivered the remarkable, fully-customised 4400 FAST FLY project to her owner.

THE LUXE YACHTS

2300 FLY launch of hull #5 This elegant and sporty 23-metre, fast-planing yacht features a composite hull, superstructure and flybridge. The 2300 FLY model remains one of the most popular in the shipyard’s stable, and the latest launch continues its legacy. The timeless, discrete design is characteristic if the Couach pedigree, with a focus on performance. She is undoubtedly one of the best Couach yachts to have been produced to date, as was testified by many of those attending the launch ceremony.

Couach’s Project Manager for the yacht, Pascal Boyer, commented at her launch: “This yacht always surprises me; she is surely one of the best Couach boats, and her seaworthiness is excellent.”

The 2305 FLY has been built for a first-time yacht owner who admired a friend’s Couach for a number of years and subsequently decided he wanted one for himself. The yacht features a great deal of customisation for a project of this length, particularly in relation to the general arrangement of the guest accommodation.

Instead of the usual three guest cabins, the client chose to have two larger guest cabins, with an additional dressing area for the owner’s suite. The interior design’s grey and beige palettes remain refined and relaxed throughout the yacht,

to instil a “holiday spirit” and so as not to detract from the surroundings. Oak and felt have been used across many of the yacht’s spaces.

The yacht has a beam of 5.37 metres and a draft of just 1.50 metres, and fully loaded she has a displacement of 50 tonnes.

She features zero-speed gyroscopic stabilisers for guest comfort at anchor, and has twin MAN 12V 1400 diesel engines providing a cruising speed of 24 knots and a top speed of 34 knots.

One of the most attractive things about the 2300 model, says Couach’s CEO Walter Ceglia, is the fact it remains accessible to owner-operators, rather than relying on professional crew for navigation. This means that the yacht can be enjoyed directly by the family who want to spend their holidays in complete privacy. “The 2305 FLY is a very beautiful vessel with a serious presence,” added Ceglia. “She combines the comfort of a yacht with exceptional seafaring capabilities. She cuts through the waves.”

The yacht was launched on Thursday 16 March, at the same time as Ceglia celebrated his first full year at the shipyard, and so this launch was all the more symbolic for the shipyard, which is celebrating its 120th anniversary in 2017.

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4400 FAST FLY delivered Launched at the end of 2016, the fully custom, fast-planing 44.8-metre 4400 FAST FLY was recently delivered to her owners in time to fully make use of her over the upcoming 2017 summer season.

The 4400 FAST FLY, a true masterpiece and high point in Couach’s legacy to date, all interior and exterior design, as well as naval architecture, was carried out in-house at the shipyard.

She sports a composite hull and flybridge, featuring fibre glass, carbon fibre, Aramat® and Kevlar® materials, and is equipped with zero-speed gyroscopic stabilisers. With a cruising speed of 17 knots and a top speed of 24 knots, the 4400 Fly Fast represents the very pinnacle of Couach’s yacht building accomplishments to date. “The most rewarding element of this project is the quality of finish that we have been able to

achieve,” commented Ceglia. “At Couach, we constantly strive to progress, to make each project the best that it can be. We are always looking to renew and improve our yachts.”

The unique, fully customised yacht is the sister ship to 49.5m M/Y La Pellegrina and 49.3m M/Y Belongers. Tailoring the yacht’s interior was a particular focus for the project, which features a combination of exceptional materials including bronze, oak, treated leathers, engraved glass, engraved marble, Dacryl® with copper inlay, and metallic resin. Many decorative elements were created specifically for the yacht, hand in hand with the client and the captain.

The Project Coordinator for the yacht, Jean Yves Corvisier, said on her completion: “This yacht benefits from the experience of her two big sisters. I believe that the 4400 FLY is the apotheosis of what we are able to accomplish at Couach. From a design and decoration

THE LUXE YACHTS

point of view, as much as from an innovation and technology point of view, an enormous amount has been achieved.”

Approaching from the gangway, the main deck aft has a large seating area from which to enjoy the ever-changing views while shaded from the sun. This leads into the main salon with a number of independent areas from which to enjoy a private moment, as well as a large sofa and TV area for film nights on board. The galley and a crew service area are located amidships, before reaching the full-beam VIP cabin to the front of the interior.

The lower deck is primarily dedicated to accommodation for guests and crew, including a full-beam master cabin amidships and two further guest cabins, one a double and the other a double convertible to a twin. To the rear of the lower deck, the six-metre Novurania tender is launched from a port-side door.

The upper deck aft features an expansive sun pad area leading into the formal dining area with seating for up to 12 guests as well as a bar area, sofa and chairs. Amidships there is a double cabin on the starboard side, and a pantry on the port side, with the captain’s cabin adjoining the bridge. Expansive sunpads between the upper deck and foredeck provide further lounging space from which to enjoy the surroundings, leading down to a seating area perfect for a sundowner on the main foredeck.

The flybridge has a lounging space to the aft, a dining table for seating of up to 10 guests, and a large seating area and wet bar.

“The whole team did an excellent job on the 4400 Fly Fast, and the owner’s representative was fantastic in his role of knowing the tastes of the client. He contributed greatly to the progress of the construction of this yacht,” concluded Ceglia.

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Athens – Forget About The Past The city in 48 hours

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ou think you know Athens, right? The Glorious City, that city of the violet crown. You think Acropolis, Aristotle and austerity. You think the Olympics, the Odeon of Herodes Atticus and the Acropolis – again. Instead, think contemporary, think hip and think dynamic. Think boutiques in Kolonaki, think stylish cafés in Monastiraki, think luxury by the sea and think art in Gazi. Think this way, and you’ve got to grips with modern Athens.

Monastiraki

THE LUXE TRAVEL

In recent years – it’s difficult to pinpoint exactly when, but for sure hosting the 2004 Olympic Games provided a pretty good reason for the city to focus – Athens has undergone a rapid transformation to become one of Europe’s most vibrant urban centres. Often overlooked in favour of other erstwhile trendier destinations such as Berlin and Barcelona, the Greek capital buzzes with a comfortable confidence and is as avant-garde and design-savvy as anywhere on the continent.

First sight of the country for most visitors is delivered on arrival at Eleftherios Venizelos – more commonly known to us as Athens International Airport, and to locals as the ‘new’ airport (cute, since it opened more than 15 years ago). 40 minutes later, and you’re in the city.

The Underdog

First Day: Lunch at The Clumsies on Praxitelous: The team behind this carefully put together space strongly believe that an all-day café should be warm and welcoming and feel familiar. You can start your day there, as interior spaces are drenched in natural light; the ambience changes while the day progresses and people gather here for a night out. Grab a healthy lunch, or go for one of their slightly less healthy but moreishly-tasty Athenian pies.

Shop throughout Monastiraki and the Flea Market. The area is a cornucopia of hidden discoveries. Its laneways and alleys open out on to large public squares, and every street is home to shoulder-to-shoulder lines of stores with everything from fashion to jewellery, great streetfood snacks, and pointless (yet irresistible) tourist trinkets.

Kolonaki

Coffee at The Underdog on Iraklidon. A temple to the Goddess of Caffeine. A simply vast pantheon to coffee-loving hipsters.

Try their espresso pannacotta – it’s a must.

Night time through Kolonaki. A short walk from the city centre, on the southern slopes of Lycabettus hill, Kolonaki is sure to present you with an option for every one of the many moods Athens will create within you. Jazz in Jazz; Stinking Bishop; Minnie The Moocher – take your pick and enjoy your pleasure.

Second Day: Breakfast at Tailor Made on Plateia Agias Eirinis. Great coffee and a light Greek breakfast. Then let your feet take you on a tour of local streets where you’ll find revealed many examples of the city’s resident’s eye for great design.

Lunch at Avocado. Vegetarian vegan restaurant. A haven for healthful living and one of Athens’ top-rated restaurants. Highquality, flavourful food, aromatic coffees and teas, and freshlysqueezed juices that are truly alive. Their philosophy is to use local, seasonal, and organic produce whenever possible.

Tailor Made Shop around Voukourestiou Street. Luxury and designer brands you’ll know – with plenty of Greek labels added into the mix.

Coffee at Warehouse on Mavromichali. One of the city’s finest roasteries and coolest hangouts.

Night time through Gazi, It’s the new cool area to be in Athens, full of restaurants, cafes, music, and art by the old city gasworks which has been turned into a museum-cultural center that may be unique in all of Europe.

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Athens - Beyond The City Divani Apollon Palace & Thalasso

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et a comfortable distance from the city of Athens, the Divani Apollon Palace & Thalasso is the perfect antidote to the stresses of city life. With its luxury-appointed rooms, fine cuisine and private beach, it’s a city-hotel… by the sea. A hidden bonus (and reason enough for staying here) is the tranquillity proffered by their Thalasso spa - indeed, it awarded as Greece’s Leading Spa Resort in 2015 by the World Travel Awards. And knowing that it’s part of our friends at the exclusive Leading Hotels of the World group – that is a double-guarantee of quality!

THE LUXE TRAVEL

If you don’t already know about the legendary Greek hospitality, there is no finer place than the Divani Apollon Palace & Thalasso to experience it.

It’s big – the Divani Apollon Palace & Thalasso hotel consists of 280 elegantly decorated rooms including 73 executives and 13 suites – yet staff have never lost those ‘small-hotel’ touches. Guest care is personal, and the team ensure that everything is at guest’s disposal to make their stay effortlessly luxurious and relaxing.

The hotel offers 4 restaurants, each with its own personality.

Enjoy breakfast at Anemos terrace – you’ll be treated to a great variety of servings, and a panoramic view of the hotel’s swimming pools and gardens.

When it comes to dining later in the day, we suggest a return to the roots of Mediterranean cuisine. their Mythos of the Sea Restaurant, just opposite from the main building, offers beautiful bay views of the Saronic Gulf and many a spectacular sunset.

With its two outdoor swimming pools, one of which holds sea water, and a beautiful private beach, guests are spoiled for choice with a variety of other outdoor activities such as the outdoor tennis court, a picturesque jogging route and a wide selection of sea activities.

Divani Apollon Palace & Thalasso is the perfect hotel for both your leisure and business needs, offering quiet luxury at the prestigious Athenian Riviera.

Thalasso Spa For absolute wellness and relaxation, the Divani Apollon Palace & Thalasso offers a 3,500 sq.m. Spa and Thalassotherapy centre, unrivalled in and around Athens. With the biggest Thalassotherapy pool in Greece at 270sq.m., it’s for you to discover the 16 different areas with water jets to relax and unwind. An extensive beauty centre with 25 treatment and massage rooms offering expert treatments tailored to your personal needs, using two of the leading brands: Ligne St Barth and Thalgo. A fully-equipped fitness centre with state-of-the-art Technogym machines is run by trained staff providing specialist consultations to help your define your goals and create a made-to-measure programme. There’s also the option of a personal trainer in the fitness room or at the swimming pool, to ensure you enjoy an outstanding Thalassotherapy experience.

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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.

Musician Lenny Kravitz partnered with KARTELL to up the ‘rockstar’ status of the Italian company’s iconic Mademoiselle chair. Last month at Salone del Mobile in Milan, Kartell introduced the latest version of Philippe Starck’s iconic chair.

Kravitz, who started KRAVITZ DESIGN INC in 2003, had the blessing of Starck, who also happens to be a good friend.

Kravitz’s six versions incorporate python, fur, leather and woven materials, upping the luxury content for the Italian company perhaps better known for its colourful plastics.

THE LUXE ZEITGEIST

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Al Zayani Named Best Ferrari Importer in the Middle East & India Region Al Zayani Kuwait was awarded Best Ferrari Importer for 2016 among all the importers in the Middle East & India.

This award is one of the most desirable honours as the operation in the MEAI region is highly competitive, and all importers are excellent in terms of the level of performance and service delivered across all aspects of the business.

Commenting on the award, Mohammed Dawleh, Ferrari Brand Manager - Kuwait said: “Attaining an award from Ferrari requires a lot of work, effort, and attention to the finest details. Achieving one of the highest awards from Ferrari is certainly a great accomplishment that reflects the ideal relationship between Al Zayani and Ferrari on one side and with our customers on the other side”.

Dawleh emphasized the support given to the whole team

by Al Zayani’s top management represented by Nail Al

Zayani, the Managing Director, and Steve Brown, the Director of Automotive to always be top achievers in all parts of the business.

He added, “We at Al Zayani believe that delivering top-notch service is a key to our success, our renovated showroom and service centre which are equipped with the latest equipped and technology guarantee a unique experience for our guests and customers, we are also keen to have a welltrained team backed up by an experienced management team at every point of contact with our customers.”

It’s worth noting that a year rarely passes without Al Zayani attaining an award from Ferrari. Al Zayani received nine awards over the last eight years, four of which are the “Best Ferrari Importer” award.

THE LUXE EVENTS

Hublot x Ferrari Hosted by Behbehani Group, Hublot’s Creative Manager head of the Middle East and Africa markets, Marco Tedeschi, visited Kuwait and brought with him three examples of the manufacture’s extraordinary Hublot Techframe Ferrari Tourbillon Chronograph.

You can read the full story on page 52 of this edition of MEN’S PASSION.

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Maserati Dubai Polo Trophy 2017 The second leg of the Maserati 2017 global Polo Tour, held at the Desert Palm Polo Club from 11 - 17 March 2017, concluded with Team Abu Dhabi winning the Maserati Dubai Polo Trophy by an outstanding score of 7 to 4 over Team AES International.

Six polo teams, featuring talented professional and amateur players from United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, United Kingdom and Argentina produced competitive yet entertaining polo. Ali Saeed JumaAlbwardy, UAE President of the Polo Association and Founder of Desert Palm Polo Club was among the celebrities, VIPs and special guests – including PH7 Group - that enjoyed the special finale.

Team Abu Dhabi with Captain Faris Al Yabhouni (UAE, Handicap 0), Kian Hall (UK, Handicap 2), Yousef Bin Desmal (UAE, Handicap 0) and Alfredo Capella (Argentina, Handicap 8) won the tournament in a thrilling finale against Team AES International with the result of 7 to 4. Team Ghantoot won the Subsidiary Trophy.

In addition to the horsepower on the field, guests enjoyed Maserati horsepower from the entire model range that was on display, which included the latest addition to the Maserati family, the Levante SUV, as well as the flagship Quattroporte, the executive sedan Ghibli and the sporty GranTurismo and GranCabrio models.

THE LUXE EVENTS

FCB Remuntada to the World Final in Brazil FCB Remuntada team was announced as Neymar Jr’s Five Kuwait champion after an intense national final during April at Al Kout Mall. The final took place in partnership with Intersport, Acqua Eva, Al Rai Media Group, Kuwait Times, Al Kout Mall, and Instituto Projeto Neymar Jr in front a group of spectators. The winners, who won the final match against ‘Real Madrid’, will represent Kuwait at the world final in Brazil in July this year where they will compete against the winning teams from more than 50 countries.

Running from 21st March to 3rd April, 150 teams signed up to the 6 national qualifiers showcasing their football skills in a first and only Neymar Jr signature football tournament where 5 players compete against 5 in a unique last man standing modus, with an eye on meeting Neymar Jr. The championship is the world’s first and only unique five-a-side championship with Neymar Jr’s signature.

This year, the fast-paced game opened its doors to participants between the ages of 16 and 25, and for the first time this year, the rules of the tournament allowed the participation of players over the age of twenty-five, giving the opportunity to a larger segment of participants. Two teams of five players each play 10-minute games with no goalkeepers. When one team scores a goal, a player on the opposing team is eliminated until the whole team is completely out or 10 minutes are up.

When interviewed on their win in the national final, FCB Remuntada captain Ali AlMasri expressed great joy, saying: “We heard about the championship through a friend and we decided to register at the Hassan Abul qualifiers in Al Dasma, we participated in the championship with a plan to win and we did”.

“We are very excited about the World Final and hope to be lucky enough to meet Neymar. We will do our best to win the world championship of Neymar Jr’s Five and represent Kuwait in the best way possible”.

FCB Remuntada’s Youssef Daikh, Hassan Mohamed Ali, Ahmed Khalid, Ali Sheet, Ali AlMasri and Yasser El Najjar, are looking forward to the grand prize for the crowned world champion team in Brazil which is meeting Neymar Jr in Barcelona, Spain, and be his guests at the famous Camp Nou to attend Barcelona’s game as VIPs.

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TRA ART Exhibition The C Club hosted its first annual TRA ART exhibition in a display of artworks combining genres and eclectic pieces by renowned Kuwaiti artists and curated by Fatina Al Sayed.

Inspired by the desire to highlight the growth and evolution of the arts community in Kuwait, TRA ART opened on 3rd April and presented select art pieces in different mediums from across the generations by 15 Kuwaiti artists including May Al Nouri, Thuraya Al Baksami, Abdul Rida Baqer, Mahmoud Ashkanani, Mohammad Ramadan, Shaimaa Ashkanani, Farah Behbehani, Mohammad Ali Sarkhou, Ibrahim Habib, Fahed Al Hajeri, AbdulRaheem Al Attiyah, Maitham Abdal and Najd Al Taher.

Commenting on the launch of the new annual initiative, ALARGAN’s C Club Managing Director Abdullah Al Askari, commented “The exhibition is one of the many initiatives that we aim at C Club to host as part of the social club environment that we are creating for members to enjoy, complementing the wellbeing that we offer through health and fitness. We thank Ms. Fatina Al Sayed for curating such a beautiful exhibition and look forward to next year’s artworks.”

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Art and Prejudice Kuwait’s Design Diwan hosted their latest diwaniya on 4th April the Visual Therapy Gallery. The topic for the session was ‘Art and Prejudice’, and presented a discussion about racism in the art world.

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Karim Ghidinelli at Dar al Funoon US-based Italian artist Karim Ghidinelli returned to Kuwait’s Dar al Funoon for the third time, this year presenting his latest work in his exhibition ‘Fresh’.

Ghidinelli explains he sees ‘fresh’, “as in renewed, innovative and free. Freshness as the liberation from stagnant and redundant policies and tendencies. Fresh as positive, peaceful and meaningful evolution. In this ever certain world of absolute truths and populist totalitarianism. I offer no answer, merely the honest of my journey, my reflections and dilemmas”.

THE LUXE EVENTS

Artists for K’S PATH 2017 The Kuwait Society for Protection of Animals and Their Habitat (K’S PATH) hosted their annual Artists for K’S PATH 2017 at Boushahri Gallery from 16th April.

Now in its fourth year, Artists for K’S PATH 2017 this annual art exhibition brings together Kuwait’s renowned artists to support K’S PATH’s work in protecting animals and their habitats. This year, Artists for K’S PATH also featured lifestyle items ranging from home décor to accessories, in addition to artwork from local and international artists, and select artworks from the collection of Sheikha Intisar Al Sabah. All the artworks and lifestyle designs were curated by Sheikha Fatima, with all proceeds supporting K’S PATH’s 300+ shelter animals and programs.

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Abdullah Al-Mutairi at The Sultan Gallery In his first solo exhibition, Abdullah Al-Mutairi illuminated The Sultan Gallery in Kuwait with his show ‘Byproducts of Expansion’.

Opened on 11th April and focusing on the impact industrial expansion has had on the bodies and identities of youth in the region, ‘Byproducts of Development’ utilized found materials, both digital and physical, to portray a theory of cultural transformation. The show drew attention to the physiological repercussions of rapid urbanization; linking the effects of the oil industry to noticeable changes in the body. Additionally, digital connectivity was scrutinized as a locus of change, prompting shifts in self-image and methods of self-actualization that mirror the drastic changes in local landscapes. Male fragility was positioned as a reaction to, as well as a consequence of, rapid development, with youth caught between a changing ecology and digital influences.

THE LUXE EVENTS

Oriental style at Dar al Funoon The Dar al Funoon was given a dynamic and oriental edge at the end of April courtesy of a pop-up curated two of Beirut’s leading stores; Orient 499 and Iwan Maktabi.

Orient 499, a trendy boutique mixing tradition with modernity, offered exclusive original handicrafts and designer creations. The items varied from antiques to modern furniture, clothes, jewelry and accessories from Lebanon and the region.

The carpet collection of Iwan Maktabi spanned various styles and periods: The Antique Collection of fine Persian, Caucasian and Central Asian carpets, and the Iwan Traditional collection with new decorative carpets as well as fine Persian classical carpets.

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THE LUXE LISTINGS

Listings Our carefully curated monthly list of events not to be missed.

Wednesday Music Live!

What: Weekly Concert Night Where: Yarmouk Cultural Centre When: Every Wednesday thru’ May 2017

The Area of Presence and Absence What: The art of Abdullah Al Otaibi Where: Dar al Funoon gallery, Kuwait When: 1 – 15 May 2017

The weekly concerts held at DAI’s Yarmouk Cultural Centre are the highlight of the season for many people. Offering great diversity of musical styles and origins, the concerts allow the audience to appreciate their favourite genre and discover new ones. Traditional music, classical music, jazz, opera.

Opening in the presence of the artist. Abdullah’s canvases are black and white with many shades of gray. His figures are human masses casting shadows on white planes. The bright colours and the light brush strokes brighten the paintings and subtly echo the determination of finding new destinations.

Blue Nights What: Art exhibition by the Dean Project Where: The Sultan Gallery, Subhan When: from 16th May – 15th June 2017 Dean Project is pleased to announce the opening of its next exhibition, Blue Nights, which features the work of eleven contemporary artists. Curated

by Mark Dean, this group show of contemporary pop art is a continuation of the Miami-based gallery’s biannual collaboration with the historical Sultan Gallery in Kuwait. It will be on view from May 16 to June 15, 2017. Blue Nights brings together diverse artists working across disciplines to address contemporary issues of existence and to share these experiences with a broader, more global audience. Artists featured in the show: Lluis Barba, Vincent Beaurin, Tim Berg & Rebekah Myers, Carlos Betancourt, Mel Bochner, Max Steven Grossman, Brad Howe, Hendrik Kerstens, Robert Polidori, Hunt Slonem, and Donald Sultan.

Three hares: The cross-cultural journey of a medieval motif What: Lecture by Dr Sue Andrew Where: Yarmouk Cultural Centre When: 15th May 2017

Peter Pan What: The Play Where: Sheikh Jaber Al-Ahmad Cultural Centre When: 18 – 20 May 2017

The intriguing image of three hares running in a circle, and sharing ears which form a triangle at the centre of the design, is found in the sacred places of three major religions between the sixth and eighteenth centuries CE. Dr Sue Andrews examines these exquisite works in the Islamic world.

This theater version brings the timeless story of J.M. Barrie to life like never before. The show is a mix of spectacle, magic, stunning visual effects and soul warming music. The show consists of actors, dancers, stunt operators, acrobats and magicians from different countries all bring this timeless story to life.

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