December 2023
PLATINUM WORLD
Love Over Gold
The Modern Enigma of Whisky Investing
REGI S T E R
YOUR
INT EREST
SAMHLA /S Ã Ũ LƏ/ NOUN ‘S Y M BOL’ OR ‘L I K E N E S S ’ I N S C O T S G A E L I C
PLATINUM WORLD
FROM THE
EDITOR Almost as if it never happened, 2023 is at a close. It seems like only
Publisher:
yesterday that the world was in lockdown, people were struggling, and the
HEVN Creative
world had become divided. Then one thing led to another, and multiple
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conflicts sprung up around the world. You would be forgiven if you had taken a back seat and just tried to ride out the tough times, but here we are, at the end of another year, filled with hope, and trepidation,
Editor: Barry J Johnston
wondering what indeed will 2024 hold for a world that seems increasingly
info@hevn.com.au
uncertain.
Sales: Barry Johnston
Well, while I can’t answer any questions you may have concerning the future of politics or mankind, I can assure you that we have another issue of Platinum World, filled with articles about some of the more desirable
info@hevn.com.au Partners:
aspects of life, hoping to intrigue, you, connect with you, and at least
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entertain you for a short time.
louis@fahmaiholdings.com
I hope we all find better tidings in the new year, and trust our partners and collaborators will be doing their very best, to bring you exciting new offerings in 2024.
Art Director: Barry J Johnston info@hevn.com.au Designers:
May the Festive season find you in good health, and may the peace and good fortune of a new year be upon you.
Barry J Johnston HEVN
Barry J Johnston Contents Page 3 A Parisian Dream Page 7 Spectre RR Page 13 AP Spiderman Page 20 Love Over Gold Page 29 Dear Shareholders Page 30 FMH B2B Page 31 Platinum Cask Page 32 Whisky Bull Auctions
©2023 HEVN Creative. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system or transmitted in any form by any means without the prior permission of the publisher. The publisher cannot be held responsible, or in any way liable for errors or omissions during the input or printing of any material supplied or contained herein. The publisher also cannot be held responsible for any claims made by advertisers or in contributions from individuals or companies submitted for inclusion within this publication. The opinions expressed are not necessarily those of the editor or of HEVN Creative, Fah Mai Holdings or any of its subsidiary companies.
A PARISIAN DREAM Exploring the Opulent Escape of Hôtel Madame Rêve In
where
It's a space that marries heritage
history whispers on cobbled streets
the
city
of
romance,
with cutting-edge design, where the
and art hangs heavy in the air, a new
whispers of the past dance with the
haven for the discerning dreamer
rhythm of the modern.
has emerged. Hôtel Madame Rêve, nestled within the iconic Grande
Ascending to your sanctuary, the
Poste de Paris, beckons with the
elevator doors open to reveal a
allure of a luxury experience as
symphony of light and air. Each of
bespoke as a couture gown. It's
the
more than a hotel; it's a portal to a
meticulously crafted portals to a
Parisian
elegance
state of whispered poetry, inviting
and audacity tango beneath a glass-
you to forget the real world, and
domed sky.
utterly embrace the romance that is
fantasy,
where
82
rooms
and
suites
are
Paris.
Stepping
through
the
grand
Bathed in natural light from Juliet
entrance, we were almost instantly
balconies
instantly
rooftops, or cocooned in the hushed
transported
to
another
overlooking
elegance
post
retreats, every space feels like a
romanticism.
The
historic edifice, once a bustling post
the
city's
time, encapsulated in a sense of modern
of
the
courtyard-facing
personal haven.
office, sheds its utilitarian skin to reveal a contemporary masterpiece.
Tailored fabrics caress the senses, bespoke furniture embraces you in
Gleaming marble floors reflect the
plush
interplay of light and shadow cast
dances
by a soaring glass roof, reminiscent
background,
of a cathedral bathed in moonlight.
immediate whim is a mere whisper
Art,
away.
curated
connoisseur,
with
the
graces
eye the
of
a
walls,
whispering tales of the avant-garde and the sublime.
3
comfort,
and
technology
seamlessly ensuring
in
the every
Culinary Delights for the Discerning
A Playground for the Parisian Soul:
Palate: But Hôtel Madame Rêve is more than Hunger, when it dares to intrude on
just a feast for the senses. It's a gateway
such reverie, is met with a symphony of
to the very essence of Paris. Immerse
flavours. La Scène, the hotel's signature
yourself in the artistic pulse of the city
restaurant,
at
orchestrates
a
contemporary French gastronomy under the
baton
of
Michelin-starred
the
nearby
Louvre
or
Pompidou
Center.
chef
Stéphanie Le Quellec.
Wander through the labyrinthine charm of the Marais, where vintage treasures
Here, seasonal ingredients pirouette on
whisper secrets of bohemian chic. Let
your plate, transformed into edible art
the Seine guide you past Notre Dame
that tantalises both eye and palate. For
and the Grand Palais, each bridge a
a
Plume
portal to a new Parisian chapter. And
delicacies
when the day's adventures fade, return
by Benjamin Six, each bite a whisper of
to your sanctuary, where a bespoke bath
umami perfection.
awaits, ready to soothe your body and
more
whispers
intimate
affair,
Japanese-infused
La
replenish your soul. And
let's
whispered
not
forget
secrets:
the
ROOF,
rooftop's a
vibrant
Hôtel Madame Rêve is not just a place
oasis perched above the city, beckons
to
with panoramic views, craft cocktails,
savoured. It's a whispered invitation to
stay;
it's
an
experience
to
be
and pulsating rhythms that keep the
embrace Parisian luxury, to dance with
Parisian night dancing long after twilight
audacity and elegance, to wake up to a
fades.
city that paints its sunrise on your own private balcony. It's a dream woven into reality, a haven for the discerning soul who seeks to truly live the Parisian fantasy.
4
Book Your Reservation
48 Louvre Street 75001 Paris Email: kitchenrestaurant@madamereve.com Phone: 01 80 40 77 47
s n a i p m y l The O
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Feature SPECTRE
A Spectre Haunts Mayfair: A Review of
Sculpted with the precision of a master
the 2023 Rolls-Royce Spectre
artisan, the Vantage's body contours exude athleticism. The elongated hood,
The hushed hush of Erwartung hums
a homage to classic sports car design,
through the London air, its melancholic
hides a beast within.
melody
an
apt
soundtrack
for
the
arrival of a spectre from Goodwood.
Each
curve,
every
line,
seems
to
whisper tales of aerodynamic prowess, Not a spectre of the operatic variety,
promising
mind you, but the 2023 Rolls-Royce
unparalleled dance with the wind.
Spectre,
a
silent
spectre
not
just
speed,
but
an
gliding
through the city's tapestry of wealth
Step around to the sides, and the
and history, a whispered revolution
signature side gills, reminiscent of a
cloaked in starlight.
shark's
gill
slits,
hint
at
the
car's
predatory instincts. The silhouette, low For
Rolls-Royce,
the
Spectre
is
a
and aggressive, speaks of a machine
watershed moment. It is the marque's
designed not merely for transportation
first foray into the electric realm, a
but
battery-powered beast that dares to
between driver and road.
for
an
intimate
conversation
ask, "can luxury transcend the internal combustion engine?" The answer, as I
As we move towards the rear, the
discovered
during
a
spent
Vantage leaves a lasting impression
cocooned
in
embrace,
is
with its bold haunches and sleek LED
its
week
a
resounding, electric yes.
taillights that could rival stars in a midnight sky.
A Silhouette Whispered in Starlight But it's the details that truly captivate.
7
The Spectre's design is an evolution of
The
Rolls-Royce's
constellation of tiny fibre optic lights
timeless
elegance,
"starlight in
headliner,"
stretched and sculpted for the modern
embedded
age. The iconic Pantheon grille, now
bathes the cabin in a celestial glow.
illuminated, becomes a portal to a
The
silent powertrain. The long, flowing
impossibly thin frames, open with a
lines whisper of speed, while the vast
theatrical
expanse of glass hints at the hushed
sanctuary of handcrafted opulence.
symphony within.
A Symphony of Silence
"waterfall
the
Alcantara
a
doors,"
flourish,
with
roof, their
revealing
a
Step inside, and the world melts
But is it a Rolls-Royce?
away. The Spectre's cabin is a hushed haven, a cocoon of cashmere and
That, perhaps, is the only question
starlight. The silence is broken only
that
by the whisper of air through the
undoubtedly luxurious, powerful, and
vents and the soft sigh of electric
technologically advanced. But does it
motors propelling you forward. This is
capture the soul of a Rolls-Royce?
not the silence of deprivation; it is
The answer, I believe, is yes. For while
the silence of absolute serenity, a
the engine may be silent, the Spirit of
canvas
Ecstasy still soars atop the grille, a
upon
which
Rolls-Royce
paints its masterpiece of comfort.
lingers.
The
Spectre
is
silent reminder that this is a car built for those who demand the very best,
The seats, thrones of quilted leather,
regardless of the fuel source.
embrace you like a warm hug. The lambswool carpets are deep enough
The Verdict
to lose yourself in. Every touchpoint, from the knurled metal knobs to the
The 2023 Rolls-Royce Spectre is a
impossibly thin steering wheel, feels
game-changer.
like a work of art.
redefines luxury for the electric age, a
Effortless Power, Electric Grace
silent
It
is
symphony
a of
car
that
power
and
grace. It is, without a doubt, one of the most remarkable cars I have ever
But the Spectre is not just about
driven.
comfort; it's about power, too. With 576 horsepower and a monumental
Would I buy one?
664 lb-ft of torque, it launches you forward with a silent, effortless surge
If
that
wouldn't
car of its size, thanks to its low centre
rolling work of art, a silent testament
of gravity and four-wheel steering.
to the enduring power of luxury.
of
seat.
I
just a car; it's an experience. It's a
joy
your
means,
hesitate. The Spectre is more than
true
to
the
The
the
you
had
handling is surprisingly nimble for a
But
pins
I
driving
the
Spectre is the serenity. You glide
Final Rating: 5 out of 5 stars (a whispered roar of approval)
along, a silent predator in a world of honking horns and screeching tires.
P.S. If you're lucky enough to find
You become one with the car, the
yourself
road, and the city, enveloped in a
Spectre, do yourself a favour. Roll
bubble of tranquility.
down
A Whisper of the Future
starlight
behind
the
the
wheel
of
a
windows,
crank
up
the
headliner,
and
find
a
deserted stretch of of road. Let the The 2023 Rolls-Royce Spectre is not
silence
just a car; it's a statement. It is a
electric power surge beneath your
wash
over
declaration that luxury can exist in
feet, and immerse yourself in the
harmony with the future, that silence
starlight symphony of the 2023 Rolls-
can be powerful, and that electric
Royce
dreams can be driven on starlight. It
you'll never forget.
Spectre.
It's
you,
an
feel
the
experience
is, quite simply, a masterpiece.
8
A Look at the Spectre's Impact The Spectre's arrival is not just a
It is a car that will be remembered
The
not just for its power and beauty,
luxury
but for the revolution it represents.
ostentation; it's about refinement,
milestone for Rolls-Royce; it's a
is
not
reminded
me
that
about
noise
and
serenity, and an appreciation for
turning point for the entire luxury
But the story doesn't end there. As I
car industry. It proves that electric
embark
vehicles can be luxurious, powerful,
journey with the Spectre, I can't
It's about creating experiences that
and desirable. It paves the way for a
help but wonder what lies ahead for
stay with you long after the engine
future
a
this electric phantom. Will it be
has stopped purring.
compromise, but a new standard of
embraced by the titans of industry
So, thank you, Rolls-Royce Spectre,
automotive elegance.
and the stars of cinema? Will it
for the symphony of silence, the
carve a new path for Rolls-Royce,
starlight dreams, and the whispered
But the Spectre's significance goes
leading the marque into a brighter,
promise of a future where luxury
beyond the automotive sphere. It
electric future?
takes flight on electric wings.
understanding of luxury. In an age
Only time will tell. But one thing is
Yours in automotive awe,
of instant gratification and ever-
certain:
The Motoring Mystic
increasing noise, the Spectre offers
Spectre is not just a car; it's a
a sanctuary of serenity, a reminder
spectre of change, haunting the
P.P.S. If you're ever in Mayfair and
that
corridors of luxury and whispering a
hear the faintest whisper of silence,
promise
keep your eyes peeled. The Spectre
where
represents
true
silence
a
shift
luxury
lies
is
not
in
not
on
the
next
leg
of
my
in
the
of
2023
a
Rolls-Royce
silent,
elegant
revolution.
might just be gliding past, a silent
The 2023 Rolls-Royce Spectre is
symphony of starlight in motion.
more than just a car; it's a harbinger
The silence, the power, the grace –
of change. It is a whisper of a future
it
where
something truly exceptional.
electric
dreams
glide
on
starlight, a future where luxury is redefined by silence and grace.
the finer things in life.
our
possessions, but in experiences.
9
Spectre
all
came
together
to
create
s e r u t a e r C l a c i h t y M The
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ROYAL OAK CONCEPT TOURBILLON “SPIDER-MAN” In the intricate tapestry of watchmaking,
The Dancing Arachnid: A Masterclass in
where mechanical artistry meets audacious
Openwork
design, Audemars Piguet has emerged as a fearless weaver. Their Royal Oak Concept
At the heart of this horological theatre, the
collection, a playground for avant-garde
Calibre 2974, hand-wound and boasting a
experimentation, pushes the boundaries of
captivating 70-hour power reserve, takes
horological tradition. And nestled within
centre stage. Its bridges, skeletonised with
this daring pantheon sits the Royal Oak
meticulous precision, resemble cobwebs
Concept Tourbillon “Spider-Man,” a watch
spun from gleaming metal. And within this
that isn't merely a timepiece, but a super
intricate
heroic statement on the wrist.
blasted titanium bridge, our star, Spider-
web,
perched
atop
a
micro-
Man, emerges. First Glance: A Web of Intrigue Crafted
white
laser-cut
and
brushed
Marvel
to
a
matte
meticulously
miniature
angular
facets,
decoration. He's a functional element, his
iconic
outstretched
power.
Its
of
the
Royal
silhouette,
are
softened
the
true
Oak's by
chamfered
spectacle
right
hero
this
radiates
reminiscent But
gold,
hand-engraved,
sheen,
understated
edges.
14
from
The 42mm titanium case, sandblasted and
arm
isn't
serving
mere as
the
tourbillon bridge, his body an integral part
unfolds
of the movement's architecture. As the
beneath the flat sapphire crystal. Gone are
balance wheel pirouettes within its titanium
the familiar dials and hands; instead, we're
cage, Spider-Man, frozen in mid-swing,
greeted by an open-worked masterpiece, a
seems
microcosm of mechanical ballet etched in
tourbillon's
titanium and steel.
timekeeping.
to
defy
gravity,
defiance
mirroring of
the
earthly
I N G O U D E
C O M P A N Y
The openwork extends beyond the
From the meticulously machined titanium
tourbillon
gears,
components to the hand-finished tourbillon
screws, and bridges rendered in
cage, every element speaks of a brand
cage,
revealing
intricate detail. It's a mechanical opera played out in miniature, an
steeped in horological heritage. And while the Spider-Man motif might raise eyebrows among
purists,
Piguet's
willingness
to
embrace
where function and form collide in
culture,
to
the
gap
breathtaking harmony.
traditional
ode
to
the
watchmaker's
craft,
it
reflects
bridge
watchmaking
Audemars pop
between
and
the
contemporary zeitgeist.
A Palette of Duality: Not Just for Wall Crawlers: A Web for
The black ceramic bezel and crown provide a sharp contrast to the titanium canvas, adding a touch of urban
edginess.
This
Connoisseurs This is a watch for those who appreciate the avant-garde, who dare to wear daring
duality
designs on their wrist. It's a conversation
extends to the strap options: a
starter, a piece that sparks curiosity and
black and grey rubber strap, sleek
ignites debates. It's not for the faint of
and understated, and a black and
heart, nor for those seeking a discreet
red strap, injecting a playful pop of
timepiece. This is a watch that screams
colour. Both, thanks to the new quick-release
system,
can
be
swapped with ease, allowing you to
out
for
attention,
a
symphony
of
mechanical artistry played at full volume. But is it an investment?
adapt your timepiece to your mood or attire.
With a limited production of 250 pieces and a price tag hovering around CHF
Beyond the Surface: A Watch with
195,000, the Royal Oak Concept Tourbillon
Pedigree
“Spider-Man”
is
certainly
not
for
the
budget-conscious collector. However, for
The Royal Oak Concept Tourbillon “Spider-Man”
isn't
spectacle;
it's
a
Audemars
Piguet's
simply
a
testament
to
watchmaking prowess.
unparalleled
those with the means and the inclination,it represents a unique opportunity to own a piece of horological history intertwined with pop culture, a watch that pushes the boundaries
of
both
design
and
craftsmanship
12
And while its value appreciation remains to be
Of course, owning a piece of this horological
seen, the mere scarcity and exclusivity ensure
tapestry
a certain level of desirability that will likely
responsibilities. This isn't a watch to be tossed
endure.
onto
comes
the
gym
with bag
or
its
own
worn
set
while
of
scaling
buildings. It's a delicate dance of gears and The Final Thread: A Watch That Weaves a
springs, a work of art demanding respect and
Legacy
care. But for those who appreciate the finer things
in
life,
who
possess
The Royal Oak Concept Tourbillon “Spider-
adventure
on
their
wrist,
Man” is more than just a watch; it's a statement.
Concept
Tourbillon
It's
reward unlike any other.
a
testament
unwavering
to
commitment
Audemars to
Piguet's
innovation,
a
the
sense Royal
“Spider-Man”
of Oak
offers
a
to
pushing the boundaries of what a timepiece can
But what about the Spider-Man factor?
be. It's a watch that dares to wear its heart on its sleeve, literally, in the form of a web-slinging
Is it mere gimmickry, or does it add a layer of
superhero. And while it might not be everyone's
intrigue and desirability? Ultimately, that's for
cup of tea, it's undeniably a conversation
each
starter, a piece that sparks debate and ignites
superhero association might feel forced, a
imaginations.
marketing
individual ploy
to to
decide. capitalise
For on
some, a
the
popular
franchise. For others, it's a playful wink to inner It's a watch that begs to be held, examined and
childhood fantasies, a chance to wear a piece
discussed. It's a watch that, like its web-
of their pop culture heroes on their wrist.
slinging namesake, leaves a lasting impression, a
mark
on
innovation. 17
the
landscape
of
horological
Regardless of one's stance on the Spider-Man motif, there's no denying the craftsmanship and sheer audacity of the Royal Oak Concept Tourbillon. It's a watch that pushes the boundaries of both design and function, a statement piece that refuses to be ignored. It's a watch that, like Spider-Man himself, swings between worlds, effortlessly blending high horology with pop culture cool. And in that unique blend lies the true magic of the Royal Oak Concept Tourbillon “Spider-Man.” It's a watch that isn't afraid to be different, to break the mold, to weave its web of horological artistry. It's a watch that, like its webslinging hero, reminds us that even the most intricate mechanisms can be infused with a touch of playful wonder. The Verdict: The Royal Oak Concept Tourbillon “Spider-Man” isn't for everyone. It's a bold statement, a watch that demands attention. But for those who appreciate the avant-garde, who relish the unexpected, it's a masterpiece. It's a conversation starter, a collector's dream, and a testament to Audemars Piguet's unwavering commitment to pushing the boundaries of horological possibilities. So, whether you're a longtime watch aficionado or simply a curious newcomer, the Royal Oak Concept Tourbillon “Spider-Man” deserves a closer look. It's a watch that might just leave you spellbound, caught in its intricate web of time and design.
15
Love Over Gold
The Modern Enigma of Whisky Investing
A GOLDEN ELIXIR FOR MODERN PORTFOLIOS The world of whisky investing, once shrouded in
China, a sleeping giant, woke up, driving demand
dusty auction houses and exclusive cellars, has
for Scotch exports. Meanwhile, the rise of Irish
exploded into a modern phenomenon, alluring both
whiskey, projected to overtake Scotch in the US by
seasoned financiers and curious newcomers. 2023
2030, offered diversification opportunities.
saw this trend continue, with the industry grappling with
growth,
controversy,
and
evolving
market
The Cask Conundrum:
forces. This review delves into the depths of whisky cask investment, analysing its performance, risks,
However,
and potential role in a diverse portfolio.
investment, the most popular approach, involves
not
all
that
glitters
is
gold.
Cask
buying a barrel of maturing whisky before its
Rise of the Liquid Asset:
bottling, hoping for future profits. This carries inherent risks. Unlike bottled whisky, cask values
Whisky's
allure
as
an
investment
stems
from
are speculative, depending on numerous factors
several factors. Unlike stocks, it's a tangible asset,
like
age,
distillery,
cask
type,
and
market
a physical barrel maturing behind oak staves,
fluctuations. Liquidity is another concern; selling
whispering promises of future appreciation. Its
casks can be cumbersome, unlike publicly traded
scarcity, particularly for rare bottling, fuels collector
stocks.
interest. Additionally, it boasts a historical track record of impressive returns: Knight Frank's Luxury
The Shadow of Scams:
Investment Index reported a 9% rise in rare whisky value in 2022, while some estimate a 21% surge.
The industry's rapid growth attracted unscrupulous actors. Cases like the $13 million "whisky scam"
2023 witnessed further market expansion, driven by
targeting
the global thirst for premium spirits. The US, a key
caution. Exaggerated returns, opaque pricing, and
market, saw whiskey consumption steadily climb,
dubious marketing tactics tarnished the industry's
with forecasts predicting a 3.2% annual growth.
reputation. Regulatory uncertainty in some regions
the
elderly
highlighted
further added to the complexity. 21
the
need
for
Technology Takes a Sip: One positive trend was the embrace of technology. Fintech platforms streamlined cask purchases, allowing fractional ownership and democratising access. AIpowered tools analysed whisky market data, offering investors
valuable
insights.
Blockchain
technology
provided
secure,
transparent
transaction
platforms,
combating fraud and boosting trust.
Whisky in the Portfolio Matrix: So, does whisky belong in a modern portfolio? It depends. For some, its historical performance, tangible nature,
and
diversification
potential
make
it
a
compelling alternative to traditional assets. However, it's essential to acknowledge the risks. Cask investment isn't a get-rich-quick scheme; it requires due diligence, research, and a long-term perspective.
Investing Wisely: Here are some tips for navigating the whisky investment landscape: Seek reputable brokers and platforms: Thoroughly research their track record, licenses, and regulatory compliance. Understand the risks: Don't be swayed by inflated promises. Focus on the inherent risks like illiquidity, market volatility, and potential scams. Diversify: Don't put all your eggs in one barrel. Spread your investments across different regions, distilleries, and cask types. Invest for the long haul: Think in terms of years, not months. Whisky takes time to mature, and so should your investment expectations.
22
The Verdict: Whisky
investment,
everyone.
It
though
demands
alluring,
careful
is
not
for
consideration,
thorough research, and a risk-tolerant mindset. While 2023 saw the industry mature, challenges remain.
However,
for
those
seeking
a
unique,
potentially lucrative asset class, with a touch of liquid luxury, whisky investment, approached with knowledge and caution, might offer a rewarding, if complex, addition to a modern portfolio.
Further exploration to consider. Specific regional market trends (Japan, Taiwan, India) The potential impact of climate change on whisky production The ethical considerations of cask investment and sustainability The role of NFTs and digital ownership in the whisky world The whisky investment story is far from over. As the industry
navigates
its
journey
through
growth,
innovation, and potential turbulence, its place in the modern portfolio will continue to evolve. For the curious investor, a dram of due diligence could unlock a world of amber rewards.
23
BREITLING Navitimer BO1 46mm
Savouring Success The Allure and Wisdom of Whisky Investments with Platinum Cask and Fah Mai Holdings
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