Signe - Edition 48

THE SWANSONG FOR A LEGEND

DBS 770 Ultimate – the final and finest of its generation

EXPERIENCE THE EXTRAORDINARY

Welcome to Trump International Golf Club, Dubai

Located in the heart of DAMAC Hills, Trump International Golf Club, Dubai brings links-style golf inspired by the game’s homeland of Scotland. Magnificent golf blended with culinary excellence and well-equipped leisure facilities creates an elegant lifestyle oasis in the United Arab Emirates for members and guests, alike.

Our stunning property boasts an exquisite 18-hole championship links-style golf course and a PAR 3 floodlit 9-hole course designed by world-renowned and 2016 Olympic golf course architect, Gil Hanse. Featuring state-of-the-art facilities, Trump International Dubai is home to the Trump Dubai Golf Performance Academy with air-conditioned indoor swing studios that offer virtual golf and SAM Puttlab technologies, a one-of-a-kind double sided LED floodlit TrackMan driving range, and immaculate short game area with practice facilities.

Complementing the extraordinary golf course and world-class golf facilities, the crescent-shaped 30,000 square foot clubhouse with its arching curves and soaring light-filled spaces provides the finest amenities, such as a chic Italian restaurant, luxurious sports bar and cigar lounge, a beautiful infinity swimming pool, a well-equipped fitness center and an expansive golf pro shop offering exclusive apparel brands in golfing and lifestyle accessories.

Visit Trump International Golf Club, Dubai to experience championship golf and a luxurious golfing lifestyle.

connected life

It’s when the spaces we create connect with people, that bonds are made, challenges are solved, and healthier, happier lives take shape. From the farmer’s market, to the bike track, to the hospital, to the cinema.

By nurturing and investing in these spaces – as well as our homes – we at Arada are creating a dynamic that puts people and their lives at the centre of everything we do. A dynamic where people and their needs inform every decision. Every action. Every innovation.

We call this Connected Life. It is our purpose – and we achieve it together.

arada.com

LEGENDS

The Aston Martin DBS 770, a true eye-candy, graces the cover of our 48th edition, while inside Dieter Knechtel, President of Ferrari - Far East and Middle East, offers exclusive insights into the Italian marque. Maybach, with the launch of Haute Voiture, takes bespoke luxury to new heights. The Little Car Company continues to prove that small can also be great.

Moser & Cie presents its first watch with a Tantalum case, while MB&F’s Legacy Machine No2 explores Palladium, and Girard Peregaux plays with light and fire. Brunello Cucinelli presents another sumptuous Sartoria Solomeo collection where blues steal the show. Berluti has curated a youthful Golf Capsule collection.

We explore the two newest real-state offerings by Sobha Properties. Jumeirah Emirates Towers Hotel has curated an exclusive package to entice UAE residents to a staycation in the heart of Dubai. SAN Beach takes beachfront luxury dining to new levels of exclusivity. The Ritz Carlton Reserve at Phulay Bay redefines bespoke luxury vacation.

As always, enjoy the read!

MASTER OF MATERIALS

CAPTAIN COOK HIGH-TECH CERAMIC HRITHIK ROSHAN SPECIAL EDITION

A NEW HEARTLAND

Sobha One and Sobha Hartland II, the two latest developments unveiled by Dubai’s premium Realty brand

Sobha Realty, one of the leading luxury real estate developers in the UAE, launched two new massive projects at Cityscape Dubai. Sobha One is set to become one of the biggest developments in the city, while Sobha Hartland II is a master-planned mixed-use development.

After the unveiling ceremony, P.N.C. Menon, Sobha Group’s Founder and Chairman, said: “Dubai has positioned itself as one of the leading luxury real estate markets in the world and attracts investors from across the globe. Our goal has been to keep pace with the steady momentum of the real estate market and the economy, and we further ensure that our operations are sustainable, in order to contribute to the UAE’s vision of achieving a clean and green future.”

Sobha One is composed of five interconnected towers offering elegantly designed one- to four-bedroom apartments and two- to four-bedroom duplexes. This new development, strategically located close to Downtown Dubai and the Ras Al Khor sanctuary offers vistas of the Creek, the Burj Khalifa and the Downtown skyline.

This masterplan features an upscale bouquet of amenities, including an 18-hole pitch and putt golf course with clubhouse facilities, polyclinic, mosque, waterfront food and beverage esplanade, sky courts for smaller scale BBQ, relaxation and private parties, interconnected themed courtyards on the sixth floor, as well as multiple sky terraces.

Commenting on the development, Francis Alfred, Managing Director of Sobha Realty, said: “The Sobha One project reflects our dedication to adhere to the highest quality standards, and we strive to provide our customers with excellence. With an innovative and modern approach, our new project offers a reimagined lifestyle, and is a perfect example of our efforts to meet the increasing needs of the real estate market. We expect that Sobha One will be one

of the most-preferred residence options to local, as well as global investors, and we commit to continue developing even more high-quality residences for our customers.”

Sobha Hartland II, the second development unveiled at Cityscape Dubai, sprawls over an 8 million square feet area, which is comprised of 90 acres of greens and open spaces. It offers five- to six-bedroom villas, and one- to four-bedroom apartments, and offers uber-luxurious living inside a private gated community.

Sobha Hartland II is located close to Sobha One, just 7 to 10 minutes away from Burj Khalifa and Downtown, with similar views of the Ras Al Khor wildlife sanctuary. It features stateof-the-art lifestyle amenities including a clubhouse, religious facilities, a school, a crystal lagoon with waterfront retail outlets, and a community retail centre, amongst others. The villas also have a private central water body with a beach edge. As over 50 per cent of the community area is dedicated to greens and open spaces, over 8,000 trees will be planted within the community.

Francis Alfred commented: “The Sobha Hartland II is a testament to our dedication to provide our clients with the best and sustainable living standards and a host of luxury lifestyle amenities. We have integrated latest technological innovations across the project and expect this master plan to be one of the most sought-after residential properties in the Emirate. We operate with an aim to attract local and global investors through our unique and top-quality offerings, and we strive to continue raising the quality benchmark for the luxury real estate segment.”

The project is expected to be completed in 2025, with an estimated time of delivery for villas starting in the second quarter of 2025, and apartments in the fourth quarter of 2025.

MINIMALIST COMPLICATION

The new Endeavour Perpetual Calendar presents Tantalum for the first time in H. Moser’s history

H. Moser & Cie presents its iconic Endeavour Perpetual Calendar model with a tantalum case. This is the first-ever use of this rare and prestigious metal in the brand’s history.

Tantalum was discovered in 1802 by Swede Anders Gustav Ekeberg. It is a highly dense and extremely strong metal. Its surfaces come in contact with air, it develops a fine layer of oxidation that protects the metal against corrosion. Tantalum offers anti-corrosive properties and does not react with most chemical agents or dissolve in acid.

This extremely malleable metal is both hard and ductile, which means it can be easily drawn out and worked with precision and finesse. With a melting point of around 3000 °C, it requires advanced metallurgical expertise to machine. Its dark grey colour is enhanced by bluish reflections, and does not tarnish. An exceptionally stable metal, tantalum combines beauty with durability.

While Tantalum certainly offers some interesting properties, for Edouard Meylan, CEO of H. Moser, it was also a personal choice: “When I was 18,” he explains, “my parents gave me my first Haute Horology watch, which was made from tantalum. Ever since then, I have dreamed of introducing this metal at H. Moser & Cie., in spite of the challenges it poses. It took more than two years of testing before we were able to polish the surfaces of our case, a feat that few have been able to match, with most preferring to sandblast or satin-finish tantalum.”

Edouard Meylan could not have picked a better candidate to introduce the Tantalum metal. The Endeavour Perpetual Calendar is widely admired for its excellent legible and easy-to-set mechanics, as it can be adjusted both forwards and backwards at any time of day. It possesses a rare combination of a complex movement that is also easy to use.

The absence of a subdial and date disc makes it very easy to read. With the Tantalum Endeavour Perpetual Calendar, H. Moser takes its minimalist philosophy even further by removing the brand logo and all indices except for those at 12 and 6 o’clock. This was done to showcase the full beauty of the “Grand Feu” enamel dial.

Starting with a pattern engrained onto a gold base, as if hammered, four different colour pigments are washed, finely crushed, and then applied to create an ombré effect. Careful work and patience are required for the master enameller to painstakingly apply the pigments, adding them one by one so that the colours oxidise and meld together when heated in the furnace, without any pixelation.

A translucent “Grand Feu” enamel dial must be fired twelve times in total to create the signature H. Moser fumé effect. Each dial is therefore unique but the finish is

always remarkable. It is unmistakably contemporary, with a complex texture and an intense hue christened Abyss Blue. At the centre, the small hand indicates the months, while a very large date window at 3 o’clock, with the “Flash Calendar” function providing an instant date change at midnight and a power reserve indicator at 9 o’clock displaying the movement’s seven days of autonomy, complete the piece. The time and date are easy to set using the crown, and can be changed at any time of the day.

H. Moser’s Endeavour revolutionised the perpetual calendar by transforming a complication designed for the most discerning of collectors into a watch that even a novice could operate. Despite the lack of branding, the newest Endeavour - combining Tantalum and blue enamel resulting in a distinct blue and grey aesthetic - is instantly recognisable. Thus proving that real luxury is a question of identity – even without obvious markers.

A LEGACY IN PALLADIUM

MB&F’s LM2 combines a Palladium case with a brilliamt aquamarine case

MB&F recently unveiled the latest iteration of its acclaimed Legacy Machine N°2, or LM2, in a new palladium case, and featuring a beautiful aquamarine sunray dial with subtle pale green, grey and blue tones.

When it was first presented in 2013, LM2 was one of the most forward-looking expressions of traditional mechanical watchmaking in the market, and yet it was conceived to honour three of the world’s greatest watchmakersAbraham-Louis Breguet (1747–1823), Ferdinand Berthoud (1727–1807) and Antide Janvier (1751–1835).

Two and a half centuries after the three contemporary watchmakers successfully constructed clocks and watches with two balances, LM2 reinterpreted this significant horological innovation with its two flying balances suspended high above the “dial” - at the 3 and 9 o’clock positions – each using a pair of gracefully arcing arms.

The two flying balances and their escapements are identical mirror images, right down to the position of the stud holders pinning their balance springs. While the majority of timepieces with double balance wheels have two separate movements, the LM2 stands out because the average rates of its dual regulators are transmitted by a differential to a single gear train.

The levitated oscillating balance wheels may be the theatrical centrepieces of the watch, but it is the large planetary differential - occupying the lower quadrant of the dial - that is the real heart of LM2. In an incredible feat of micro-engineering, the differential performs three functions. First, it transfers power to each of the regulators. Second, it receives the individual timing rates from each balance. Lastly, it transmits the average rate of the two regulators to

the gear train, where it manifests itself as the displayed time. Under the domed sapphire crystal, where one expects to find the conventional dial, in the LM2, we have the top plate of the mechanism instead. It has a beautiful aquamarine sunray finish with subtle pale green, grey and blue tones. The technical dial is the white stretched lacquer sub-dial at 12 o’clock, with its blued hour and minute hands.

The LM2 movement was developed to MB&F’s specifications by award-winning watchmaker Jean-François MojonBest Watchmaker at the 2010 Grand Prix d’Horlogerie de Genève - and his team at Chronode. Acclaimed independent watchmaker Kari Voutilainen ensured that the movement’s aesthetic style was consistent with high-quality traditional timepieces of the 19th century and for specifying the handfinishing.

Immaculate Geneva waves, gold chatons, mirror-polished bevels and bridges designed with deliberate internal bevelled angles (which cannot be finished by machine) showcase the movement’s finishing. Moreover, the new Palladium edition has a new NAC finish, offering a deep anthracite colour to give even more character to the timepiece. Consistent with MB&F’s spirit of transparency, the names of the two men responsible for the movement are hand engraved on the back.

Legacy Machine No.2 was launched in 2013 in 18k red gold, 18k white gold and a limited edition of 18 pieces in platinum 950. A limited edition of 18 pieces in titanium with a green face was added in 2017, and 2018 was marked by a limited edition of 12 pieces in white gold with a purple face. In 2019, a red gold blue limited edition was launched in just 12 pieces. And finally, the new Palladium model joins the collection in a limited edition of 18 pieces.

A VARIETY OF NOVELTIES

Presenting our selection of Hublot Timepieces unveiled at this year’s LVMH Watch Week

This year’s LVMH Watch Week - the first significant watch exhibition of the calendar year - was held in Singapore for the first time between January 10 and 12. As it does every year, the fourth edition debuted exceptional timepieces from the LVMH Group’s four watchmaking brands.

Here, we look at the models presented by Hublot. And, as it does every year, the watchmaker continues to be bold, with an impressive number of new releases; from monotones to the vibrantly colourful, from the opaque to the transparent.

Big Bang Integrated King Gold Rainbow & Time Only

Building on the success of last year’s best-seller, Hublot has unveiled two new variants of its King Gold Rainbow. Both pieces are fully paved – from the case to the bezel and the bracelet - with a variety of glittering gemstones arranged in a gradation of rainbow colours. There are 942 gemstones in total for the Big Bang Integrated and 924 for the Time Only. The case and bracelet of both models are cut from King Gold, Hublot’s exclusive alloy containing platinum. It offers

a distinctly warmer colour than traditional 18K 5N gold. It also lends itself perfectly to the alternating flat satin-finished surfaces and polished chamfers. Both have the same intense black dials that contrast vividly with rest of the watch.

The Time Only model has a more compact 40-mm case, and is powered by the MHUB1710 Unico self-winding movement. The second model has a larger 42-mm case, and is powered by the MHUB1280 Unico self-winding chronograph flyback movement.

Big Bang Unico Sorai

Hublot has been supporting SORAI – Save Our Rhinos Africa India – since 2019. An organisation founded by Hublot ambassador and former international cricket star Kevin Pietersen to help keep rhinos threatened with extinction safe from poachers. The colours chosen for the third SORAI model are those of sunset, recalling the heightened danger faced by rhinos from that period of the day and onwards. Part of the proceeds from the sale of the 100 watches will be donated to the NGO.

The 44 mm case is sculpted from polished and micro-blasted rhino-grey ceramic specially developed for this watch, and features an openworked dial with the colours of sunset. The Unico self-winding movement within has 72 hours of power reserve. The patented One Click interchangeable strap system allows the watch to be worn with a grey fabric and Velcro version or a black, purple and orange camouflage design.

Big Bang Tourbillon Automatic Yellow Neon Saxem

The latest addition to Hublot’s collection of translucent watches, debuts a new material – a polished and micro-blasted yellow neon crystal called Saxem. Short for “Sapphire Aluminium oXide and rare Earth Mineral,” Saxem is an alloy of aluminium oxide, the basic component of sapphire, with rare earth elements like thulium, holmium and chromium. Used in such extreme applications as lasers and satellites, this crystal is ultra-resistant and endowed with a brilliance that is greater than that of sapphire.

This watch’s 44mm case and dial are in sapphire crystal. The strap is in matching yellow rubber Straps. Visible through the transparent construction is the in-house HUB6035 Automatic Tourbillon Movement. Distinguished by its automatic winding system with ball bearings, a micro-rotor on the dial side, and three sapphire bridges, the movement offers up to three days of power reserve.

Classic Fusion Original

Hublot brings back the watch that started it all back in 1980. Both refined and sporty, the combination of a gold case fastened with a simple rubber strap, unthinkable at the time, is now an icon of the watchmaking industry. Echoes of Carlo Crocco’s original design are recognizable in the rubber strap, the polished black lacquered dial, the facetted hands, and the circular case design. However, the logo is more contemporary. Also, the current “Original” is available in a choice of yellow gold, titanium and ceramic cases, as well as in 42, 38 and 33mm sizes. The sapphire case back reveal the mechanical parts of the MHUB1110 Self-winding movement within the 38 and 42mm cases, and the Quartz mechanism within the 33mm.

Big Bang One Click Sapphire Diamonds

Hublot has added its signature sapphire case construction to the One-Click collection, targeted primevally at women. The polished 39mm sapphire case, with a thickness of 12.55mm, has a polished stainless steel bezel set with 42 diamonds. As standard, it comes with an interchangeable black rubber strap, which complements the black visible parts of the automatic MHUB1710 calibre. This strap is obviously interchangeable with the seemingly endless selection of straps. The selfwinding movement has a power reserve of 510 hours.

Spirit of Big Bang Tourbillon Purple

Sapphire & Carbon Sky Blue

Hubloo’s collection of Tonneau watches gets two new additions, both in 42mm. The bolder of the two - and following in the footsteps of the collection’s Tourbillon Orange Sapphire - is the polished purple sapphire case and bezel. The dial, case-cover and case-back are all colourless sapphire, thus rendering the whole watch transparent. The strap is in matching translucent purple rubber straps. This model is limited to just 50 pieces.

The second model - a successor to the Carbon White and Carbon Green Spirit of Big Bang

Tourbillon models – features a carbon fibre case and bezel infused with sky blue micro-glass fibres. The vivid yet tranquil colour also finds expression on the skeletal dial, where it forms a backdrop to the counters, in an otherwise grey setting. A matching sky-blue rubber strap has black edges to complement the watch. Both watches are powered by the HUB6020 manualwinding skeleton tourbillon movement which has a power reserve of 115 Hours. black, purple and orange camouflage design.

Classic Fusion Gold Crystal Ceramic

The 24K gold crystal, one of Hublot’s truly precious materials, is also a recurring one. The shimmering metallic crystal, which is extremely rare in nature, is the star of the show. It beautifully contrasts with the clean black surface of the watch. The dial is polished black, the 42mm case and bezel both are in satin-finished black ceramic, and the six signature H-shaped titanium screws are black-plated. The strap is either black rubber or alligator.

The whole watch surface, therefore, forms a blank canvas on which the shiny yellow flakes of gold find expression. Hublot’s HUB1110 selfwinding movement, with a power reserve of 42hour, moves the central hour, minute and second hands beneath the sapphire crystal treated with anti-reflective coating.

Cheval Blanc Randheli

Big Bang Unico & Big Bang One Click

This year marks the ninth year of collaboration between Hublot and the idyllic Maldivian hotel Cheval Blanc Randheli. To commemorate the occasion, Hublot has introduced limited editions of the Big Bang Unico and the Big Bang One Click watches, each in twenty-five numbered pieces. The two timepieces incorporate the hotel’s signature shades of taupe - a greyish-brown colour - and yellow.

The Big Bang Unico dial is dressed in a matt taupe while the Big Bang One Click features a sunray taupe dial set with 11 white diamonds. Both have a polished yellow ceramic bezel. The standard strap is brown alligator, but it also comes with an additional white line rubber strap. Both are powered by the HUB1280 Unico self-winding chronograph movement. These commemorative specialedition watches are only available at the Cheval Blanc Randheli Concept Store.

BEAUTIFULLY TRANSLUCENT

The two new Laureato Absolute models by Girard-Perregaux capture the beauty in translucence

Girard-Perregaux presents two new Laureato Absolute models – the Laureato Absolute Light & Shade and the Laureato Absolute Light & Fire. Housed in a metallised sapphire crystal case, the new Laureato Absolute models juxtapose curves and lines on their translucent sapphire case construction.

While the Light & Shade model (Ref: 81071-43-2022-1CX) is a study in shades of grey, the Light & Fire model (Ref: 81071-443115-1CX) features a distinctive translucent red case to mark the advent of the Chinese New Year, and is limited to just 18 pieces.

Since Girard-Perregaux debuted the inaugural version of the Laureato in 1975, the line has united contrasting elements to glorious effect. Over the years, the maison has introduced new complications and worked with a variety of materials and colours, but has always remained the model’s signature elements.

In 2019, Girard-Perregaux unveiled the Laureato Absolute line. Many of Laureato’s recognisable design codes were carried over to this bolder interpretation of the 1975 model, including the octagonal bezel set atop a circular ring. However, this new line also incorporated an integrated rubber strap, along with many additional changes, some more

subtle than others, ultimately contributing to the appearance of the Laureato collection.

The new Laureato Absolute model has a case made from metallised sapphire crystal, measuring 44 mm in diameter. As a result, this model exhibits a visually light and transparent appearance, while also possessing a dark and reflective look. The visual lightness is made tangible by a low mass of just 85 grams. Throughout its composition, the watch juxtaposes contrasting characteristics.

The sapphire crystal case makes it possible to reveal the movement within in all its glory. The mainplate of the in-house movement, the Calibre GP01800-1143, is octagonal-shaped, in a nod to the original Laureato’s bezel. The skeletonised movement reveals a plethora of parts normally hidden from view, providing a fascinating vista of curves and lines enriched with pockets of light and shade. The barrel is open-worked, affording sight of the mainspring in various degrees of tension.

Likewise, the balance wheel can be seen oscillating to and fro in a bewitching dance. The gold oscillating weight is open-worked, inviting the wearer to admire the bridges below. The NAC-treated bridges and mainplate incorporate sandblasting, traits-tirés, circular satin finishing and bevelling, with no less than 55 hand-polished inner angles.

The Calibre GP01800-1143 is fitted with a variable-inertia balance. Most watches feature an index regulator that alters the effective length of the hairspring, making the watch run faster or slower. With a variable-inertia balance, the length of the hairspring is fixed and the rate is altered by adjusting the inertia weights fitted to the spokes of the balance wheel. This system delivers greater stability as well as superior shock resistance.

The elegant, open-worked hour and minute hands offer excellent readability. A three-dimensional ring sitting between the bezel and the movement plays host to the GP logo at 12 o’clock and the remaining 11 indexes. Girard-Perregaux has employed a unique construction method, obviating the need for a conventional casing ring. The case and the movement are assembled on a single axis, from the caseback to the bezel, by a very specific screw system. The design of these screws requires micron-level precision to hold the different components together.

Two black, PVD-treated titanium lugs are integrated within the case, uniting the watch head with a black rubber strap. This arrangement not only looks modern but also ensures the strap is optimally positioned on the wrist, thereby offering excellent wearer comfort. The lugs incorporate satin-finished surfaces with polished angles. The strap is made from FKM rubber, a material that offers suppleness and resistance when contrasted with conventional rubber.

To further heighten the visual allure of the strap, its appearance is enriched with a fabric effect façade. The buckle is fitted with a micro-adjustment system, allowing the wearer to fine-tune the union between the strap and their wrist. The crown is made of polished and sandblasted PVD-treated titanium, echoing the appearance of the lugs.

The new Laureato Light & Fire, paying homage to the Chinese New Year, reveals a deep and captivating intense red colour that plays with light. Limited to just 18 pieces, the model shares much in common with the Laureato Absolute Light & Shade but is housed in a new polycrystalline material named YAG.

Similar to sapphire crystal, this translucent material is hard and scratchresistant, but also offers a variety of dark shades. This latter characteristic was particularly important to the maison’s design team who were keen to dress the limited-edition timepiece in a deep red vibrant hue.

THE REBIRTH OF A LEGEND

The New Ford Bronco was designed from the ground up for the adventure seeker in the great outdoors

“They’re built with the toughness of an F-Series truck and the performance spirit of a Mustang – and come wrapped in one of the most stunning and functional off-road designs,” is how Ford CEO Jim Farley described the new Bronco following its much-anticipated unveiling in 2020.

Unlike the original Bronco off-roaders, which were available only in two-door models, the new generation of Broncos are available in both two and four-door models, along with a choice of two engines and four “adventure-

ready” specs. For further customisation, customers can choose from a lineup of more than 150 factory-backed accessories that can be outfitted on demand by the dealer. The new Bronco models also debut all-new off-road mapping and drive technologies, and up to seven driver-selectable modes for off-road driving.

“The trail mapping system available on Bronco is truly a game-changer in the off-road community,” said Mark Grueber, Bronco Consumer Marketing Manager. “It works

online or off on either of the navigation-capable 8- or 12inch SYNC systems, allowing users to select one of the hundreds of available curated trail maps to map out and then track, capture and share their adventures with others.”

He adds: “Bronco’s advanced four-wheel-drive technology is at the core of its off-road capabilities, and at the heart of it all is Bronco’s exclusive Terrain Management System with G.O.A.T. Modes that is designed to help drivers better navigate any type of terrain.”

Two 4x4 systems are available with the new Bronco models. The standard base system utilizes a two-speed electronic shift-on-the-fly transfer case. The optional advanced system features a two-speed electromechanical transfer case that adds an auto mode for on-demand engagement to select between 2H and 4H. Power is distributed to a Solid rear axle and independent front differential unit. The optional Spicer Performa-TraK electronic locking differential delivers improved traction over rough terrain.

Bronco’s all-new Trail Toolbox gives owners a suite of exclusive technologies to elevate the off-road experience. This includes Trail Control – cruise control for lowspeed trail driving, while Trail Turn Assist tightens offroad turning radiuses through torque vectoring, and the innovative Trail One-Pedal Drive acceleration and braking control makes for more precise and confident slow-mode crawling over rocky terriain.

The new Bronco boasts up to 29.46 centimetres of ground clearance, a maximum 29-degree break-over angle, and a 37.2-degree departure angle. It also boasts best-inclass water fording capability of up to 85 cm. It has exposed tow hooks in the front and rear. The optional heavy-duty modular steel bumpers come with an integrated Ford Performance winch mount.

Underneath, strategically placed steel shields protect critical hardware. Higher-capability models get an optional front bash plate, plus shields for the engine, transmission, transfer case and fuel tank. For those taking on the roughest rocky terrain, the optional side rock rails are strong enough to support the weight of each side of the vehicle.

The design process for the new Bronco began in a studio with a life-size digital scan of a first-generation model.

“Similar to the first-generation model, Bronco’s square proportions, short overhangs and wide stance are optimized for off-road adventure,” explains Paul Wraith, Bronco’s chief designer. “The side profile features a flat, no-nonsense surface with clear-cut edges and robustly flared fenders. Large, open wheel wells are a modular design with a quickrelease attachment for simple customization.”

Unlike the earlier generations, however, the architecture of the new Bronco is all-new. It is based on a fully boxed, high-strength steel chassis that delivers exceptional suspension travel. It has an independent front suspension for improved control, confidence and comfort. At the rear, a rugged solid axle design, featuring coil springs with five locating links, delivers both strength and off-road control. Long-travel position-sensitive Bilstein dampers with endstop control valves at every corner are available for added off-road durability and reduced harshness.

An optional semi-active hydraulic stabilizer bar disconnect design provides extreme articulation and increased ramp angle index for off-camber terrain. This innovative system can disconnect to improve steering and stability at higher speeds. The 35-inch off-road tires are standard on every trim level of two- and four-door Bronco, and for the first time, the beadlock-capable wheels and offered as a factory option.

Customers have the choice of two petrol power plants. One is the 2.7-litre V6 EcoBoost engine that produces 330 horsepower and 563Nm of torque, while the 2.3-litre is an in-line EcoBoost engine delivering 275 horsepower and 420Nm of torque. Both engines are paired with Ford’s SelectShift 10-speed automatic transmission, designed to offer easier driving, both on- and off-road, while offering a maximum 67.8:1 crawl ratio with the available advanced 4x4 transfer case.

True to its heritage, the new Bronco models are designed to maximise the open-air experience. The two-door models come with three removable roof sections while the four-door models have four, including removable panels over the rear seats and cargo area. These easily removable sections can be stored on board. The rear quarter windows and the frameless doors are also removable.

Inside, the instrument panel draws inspiration from the first-generation model, with gauges and controls clearly visible and intuitive. Colours are inspired by natural palettes and outdoor gear. The materials were selected for their toughness and durability.

A multifunction colour LCD instrument panel is front and centre with the transmission selector and G.O.A.T. Modes controller in the centre console. Grab handles are integrated into the modular instrument panel and centre console, while optional MOLLE hooks are mounted in the seatbacks. The optional SYNC 4 system, in combination with the optional 360-degree camera system, displays off-road spotter views to provide additional visibility in technical pursuits such as rock crawling.

To make post-adventure cleanups simple, select Bronco models come with washable rubberised floors with integrated drains and marine-grade vinyl seating surfaces that resist mildew. Instrument panel surfaces are wipeable, with seamless silicone rubber on the dash-mounted hero switches, while rubber touchpoints protect against dirt and water. Six optional upfitter switches - mounted overhead with prewired leads to key accessory points - are silicone-sealed to protect against the elements and to make customization easy.

A modern high-strength steel roll cage with integrated side curtain airbags in the upper structure, as well as in the seats, help protect passengers from side impacts, and complements driver and front passenger airbags. Some of the driver assists include Ford Co-Pilot360 technologies, AdvanceTrac Roll Stability Control, and Trailer Sway Control.

The new Bronco models debut an all-new experientialbased equipment series, which provides unique flexibility to align the off-roader’s capability with each customer’s requirements. Four unique Bronco series are offered, with matched colour and trim combinations. When combined with three content packages, numerous options, 11 colour choices and 150 dealer-installable accessories, personalizing options on an all-new Bronco SUV are quite extensive.

The four series ranges are Big Bend and Outer Banks with a variety of options and colours. At the higher end are Wildtrak and Badlands, for more extreme off-road adventuring.

A HIGHER POINT OF VIEW

Dieter Knechtel, President of Ferrari Far East and Middle East, offers us insights into the happenings at Ferrari

We recently sat down for a conversation with Dieter Knechtel, President of Ferrari Far East and Middle East. The Vienna-born, HEC Paris graduate, has nearly eight years of upper-management experience at Ferrari that spans the breadth of Asia - from the Middle East to the Far East. The perfect man, therefore, to offer some interesting insights into some of the challenges faced by the renowned Italian marque - in the recent past, its extraordinary achievements, the new Purosangue, and future plans.

How did the COVID situation change the market dynamics for Ferrari, as a brand and as an automaker in the last couple of years?

Because of COVID, we had to close our factory for seven weeks, and obviously, we couldn’t produce cars during that time. This means we lost a bit of production volume in 2020. Also, we had to go digital in some situations until the markets opened up. Apart from that, COVID did not have much of a negative effect on our business. On the contrary, we had the best period in our history in terms of order uptake worldwide. And because of that, today, we are in a very comfortable situation.

I believe there were two reasons for this positive result. First of all, people staying at home during the lockdown had more time on their hands. They were willing to spend more time talking to our representatives. Some people, who had extra savings, wanted to spend it as a personal reward. And everyone knows that a Ferrari is a very stable long-term investment. Our cars’ hold their residual values very well. This is in addition to our cars being exceptionally emotional products. They offer a

great deal of enjoyment and a unique lifestyle to their owners. in addition to this, we also had a series of very attractive new products hitting the market during this time. Starting with the F8, followed by the 812s, the SF90s and the Monzas. Then we have the Roma, a very attractive car, especially for people who don’t like extreme sports cars. With Roma, we achieved our target of attracting at least 70% first-time Ferrari buyers.

Due to the COVID restrictions, we also learned a lot about improving our relationship with our clients. Because we couldn’t have big events, we had to do one-on-one sessions or small groups. This was highly appreciated by our clients. So we have reformatted our events, from large to small, and even personal one-to-one sessions in many of our activities, from test-drives to introducing new cars.

Speaking of new models, the recently unveiled Purosangue, Ferrari’s first SUV. What was the thought process behind this model, and whom do you see driving it?

Going back five years, when the decision was taken to develop an SUV, the starting point was the same as it was for the Roma - to enter a segment in which we were not present. We wanted to broaden our customer base by attracting people who had not yet considered buying a Ferrari. So the product itself had to be different.

Purosangue is the car that was always missing in many of our client’s collections. We often saw in the garages of our clients that all their cars were Ferraris, but their SUVs were from other brands.

Dieter Knechtel, President of Ferrari Far East and Middle East

When developing Purosangue, we had decided that, on the one hand, we would never compromise on the sportiness of our SUV. We did not want to develop just another SUV type of car. So the Purosangue is a high-performance sports car. This is one of our customer promises that we have never failed to deliver. At the same time, Purosangue is more versatile, more flexible and more spacious, with ample room for four adults. It is certainly a car for everyday driving.

With the launch of new models targeting new types of customers, how does Ferrari retain its DNA, its defining characteristics?

There are a few important qualities that every Ferrari must have to comply with our customer promise. First of all, every new Ferrari that is launched, introduces a fair amount of innovation, in terms of technology. Every new car is definitely a major improvement compared to the one before. Also, we set the performance benchmark very high, for every segment.

We are always very careful about finding the right balance between the heritage of our brand - either on the roads or in racing - and innovation. Our heritage is our inspiration while developing a new car. I think the Ferrari Design Centre in Maranello, headed by Flavio Manzoni, has done an amazing job

since it was established. They have delivered consistency in the design of our products.

The most important element for me is exclusivity. because we cannot fulfil everyone’s wish to buy a Ferrari, unfortunately, we have much more demand than we can supply. This is not just because of strategy. It is also because of this fact that we have a boutique factory in Maranello, which keeps our production volume reasonably low. The combination of low volume, high performance, innovation and our exceptional heritage all combine to give our cars their defining characteristics.

As we know, a Ferrari owner’s experience goes beyond just owning an exclusive car. Ferrari has introduced several new social and sporting events recently for your clients. Could you shed some light on them, as well as the status of the legacy events, post-COVID?

We come from racing. We love to be on track. Our customers are inspired by this and want to be part of the racing culture and heritage of Ferrari. Some of them are professionals, some just want to have a bit of fun. So we have different events catering to different needs.

At the very top are the GT and endurance racing. Then we have the Ferrari Challenge, which has been a little bit compromised

by COVID because of the travel restrictions in Asia. So the event was shifted to the Middle East. We have confirmed two races for next year, in Abu Dhabi and Dubai, as an attachment to the European series. Now that Japan is opening up, we will have a Japan APAC series starting next year [2023]. There are seven wonderful racetracks in Japan, which we would like to use for a local Japan series, but open to everyone else.

Then of course we have the premium events like the XX Programme, Corse Clienti and the F1 Clienti. These are for our very discerning clients who buy super exclusive or very limited cars. Historic F1 cars for example. We take care of these super exclusive cars for our clients, and bring them to track for the clients to enjoy.

We also have clients who want to go on the track without competing. For them, we have the Club Challenge. Our team in the Dubai office started working on this project a few years back to develop racing-related activities in this region. We have always wanted more professional drivers from this region to participate in our Challenge races and so on. A sizeable number of clients have already enrolled with more

expressing interest. Now we are taking the Club Challenge to the neighbouring Gulf countries.

Then we have Casa Ferrari, the exclusive and luxurious hospitality concept reserved for our clients. It was born in Pebble Beach, but has become a very popular platform for our clients to meet and enjoy during the Abu Dhabi Formula One weekend. We had to massively increase the size of the venue to meet the demand this year. We now have Casa Ferrari in Melbourne and Singapore as well during their Formula One weekend.

Finally, what can we look forward to in 2023 from Ferrari?

Obviously, I cannot say much about the future, but we have already announced that we are working on our first-ever electric car. We should see the results of this initiative in 2025. Also, at the Capital Markets Day that took place in June, our CEO confirmed that by 2030, Ferrari will be carbon neutral. it’s one of the key objectives within the company at the moment. We have studied in detail what we need to do to meet our targets, and we have already started planting a forest in Italy as a part of our green initiative.

COLLECTIBLE ART ON WHEELS

Production on the very exclusive Mercedes-Maybach S-Class Haute Voiture has commenced

Mercedes-Maybach S-Class Haute Voiture is a new and very limited edition series which can best be described as collectable art on wheels. The concept, presented last year, has now become reality with new meticulous design detailing that elevates the customer experience to new heights.

“The Mercedes-Maybach S-Class Haute Voiture heralds a new chapter of high exclusivity for the brand. With a restricted limited run of 150 units, the special edition reflects our brand philosophy to occasionally release aspirational collectables. Thus, we further strengthen the position of Maybach as the ultimate luxury pioneer and facilitate one-of-a-kind luxury experiences that go beyond our customers’ expectations,” says Daniel Lescow, Head of Mercedes-Maybach.

The Haute Voiture Maybach concept was presented for the first time as a climax to the fashion show by the local couture brand, Atelier Zuhra.

Founded by Omani designer Rayan Al Sulaimani, Atelier Zuhra’s couture event - held in Dubai on December 12 - was attended by VIP guests, media personalities and top influencers.

Every Haute Voiture is based on a MercedesMaybach S-Class S 680, which has a nearly 18 Centimetres longer wheelbase than the standard S-class. Powered by a 621-hp 6.0-litre V-12 coupled with Mercedes’ 4Matic all-wheel drive system.

Even though it can accelerate from zero to a hundred in around 4.5 Seconds, the emphasis here is on delivering a refined ride quality. Even while crusing at over 100 kmph, the car offers a silky smooth ride thanks to its air suspension, while producing an extremely low 64 decibels as a result of its active sound cancellation system. The car also offers rear-wheel steering.

An Haute Voiture S 680 is worked on by Mercedes Benz’s highly specialised customization team at its Sindelfingen Manufaktur. Through a combination of rare craftsmanship, premium materials and exquisite details, the result is a new level of exclusivity that is akin to a drivable art piece. Each vehicle that rolls out from here will feature a badge in the centre console outlining its number within the unique run of 150.

Gorden Wagener, Chief Design Officer Mercedes-Benz Group, says: “The intricate features and exclusive design elements are what makes the Mercedes-Maybach S-Class Haute Voiture one of the most extravagant models we ever created – it represents Sophisticated Luxury in its purest form. Our customers have access to the most aspirational lifestyle, so we wanted to reflect this through creating something utterly desirable and using components never before seen on a Mercedes-Maybach.”

An Haute Voiture S 680 is worked on by Mercedes Benz’s most specialised customization team at its Sindelfingen Manufaktur. Through a combination of rare craftsmanship, premium materials and exquisite details, the result is a new level of exclusivity that is akin to a drivable art piece. Each vehicle that rolls out from here will feature a badge in the centre console outlining its number within the unique run of 150.

An Haute Voiture’s exterior is characterised by an exclusive two-tone paint finish - a combination of metallic nautical blue on top, with a light, shimmering rose tone in the lower section and nautical blue metallic rims. An additional highlight now includes surround lighting with animated projection. This illumination is activated when the doors are opened. An animated Mercedes-Benz or Mercedes-Maybach patterns using LCD technology light up and elegantly illuminate both the front and rear entry areas.

The exterior aesthetics of the Haute Voiture effortlessly transition into its interior through the extended use of deep-sea blue and rose gold tones, as well as with additional crystal and glossy opal white features. The interior showcases the most exquisite attention to detail, perfectly underlining its Haute Couture inspiration.

A high-quality fashion-inspired bouclé fabric remains a constant throughout the model - in blue, beige, rose gold and gold shades, with additional intricate details featured within the seat covers and cushions. Highlights of crystal white leather embrace the passengers throughout the consoles, doors and scatter cushions.

The floormats are made of linen and mohair. Rose gold-coloured champagne flutes seamlessly integrate the display in the spacious rear. An Haute Voiture badge displays prominently on the door panel. Also original to the series car is the blue-tone leather piping within the consoles.

These interior embellishments are in addition to the extensive standard interior luxuries of the S 680. Some of these include a 64-colour ambient lighting system; heated rear seats with power adjustments and various massage modes; an interior air ionizing system with signature fragrances, and a panoramic sunroof.

The car’s MBUX infotainment system comprises two interface displays - a 12.8-inch OLED touchscreen and a 12.3inch digital gauge cluster. This system has an augmented-reality navigation system built into it, displaying easy video directions on the central display as well as on the car’s head-up display.

In an Haute Voiture, the MBUX display gets sparkling glitter clouds and a variety of accents in shimmering rose gold to emphasize the catwalk atmosphere. In the profile selection menu, the driver is greeted with a magnolia blossom and sparkling particles. Twelve different avatars are adorned with fine accessories, and are elegantly dressed, for example in a dinner jacket, tailcoat or evening gown.

To complete the Maybach experience, the S-Class Haute Voiture will be accompanied by a hand-made gift box featuring its badge number, alongside a scaled model and key ring. In addition, a special car cover featuring the Maybach and Haute Voiture logo will be gifted to customers.

A bag collection will accompany the Haute Voiture series, retailing in early 2023 at Maybach Icons of Luxury physical and online stores. Available in different styles and sizes in a limited run, the items in this collection will be comprised of select materials featured in the vehicle interior, combining Haute Couture extravagance with detailed craftsmanship.

The Haute Voiture is one of two fashion-related special editions that will be offered by Maybach this year. The other is the limited-edition S680 by Virgil Abloh, as a tribute to the late fashion designer. The last collaboration in a highly successful creative partnership, and limited to just 150 units, it has a black-and-tan colour scheme with monoblock wheels in matching tan colour.

A SWANSONG FOR A LEGEND

The DBS 770 Ultimate will be the final and finest iteration of the current DBS generation

The DBS nameplate has been attached to some of Aston Martin’s finest flagships. Since 2018, a “DBS” badge has stood at the pinnacle of Aston Martin’s series production range, with a Twin-Turbo V12 powerhouse within and sensuous styling outside.

However, with the production of the current generation DBS nearing its end, Aston Martin presents a DBS “to surpass all others” - the DBS 770 Ultimate.

As its name suggests, the DBS 770 Ultimate, will be the most powerful production Aston Martin ever, and the fastest and most powerful DBS to date. Its extensive design and engineering enhancements ensure the DBS 770 Ultimate is going to be a highly-collectable variant of Aston Martin’s flagship Super GT. Available in both Coupe and Volante form, DBSUltimate will be built in strictly limited numbers – 300 Coupes and 199 Volantes – with all examples sold ahead of release.

DBS 770 Ultimate has an aggressive iteration of Aston Martin’s quad-cam 60deg 5.2-litre V12 engine. According to the marque, it develops 770PS at 6500rpm and a colossal 900Nm of torque from just 1800rpm to 5000rpm, propelling the car to a top speed of 400 kmph.

This magnificent engine benefits from modified air and ignition pathways together with a 7% increase in maximum turbo boost pressure. Precise tuning of power and torque curves gives the driver a sense of boundless performance, with an intoxicating blend of exceptional response, outstanding in-gear acceleration and the authentic V12 soundtrack.

Power is fed through a ZF 8-speed automatic transmission and mechanical Limited-Slip Differential (LSD) mounted at the rear of the car. In addition, DBS 770 Ultimate receives a unique transmission calibration to enhance shift speeds and driver interaction, contributing to a truly connected driving experience. The car’s Carbon Ceramic Braking (CCB) system’s inherent capability is such that the DBS 770 Ultimate uses the same 410mm x 38mm front discs and 360mm x 32mm rear as fitted to the DBS.

To further improve the direct nature of the steering response and increase the level of detailed feedback, DBS 770 Ultimate introduces a new solid-mounted steering column, allowing the driver to enjoy a more precise connection with the road ahead, feeling what the front tyres are doing with utmost confidence and accurately gauge available grip.

Integral to achieving the engaging character and heightened steering feel of the DBS 770 Ultimate, front-end lateral stiffness has been improved by 25% to provide maximum performance feel and response. This increase has been achieved with an enhanced front cross member, and thicker rear undertray, which also increases global torsional stiffness by 3%, which translates to improved driving dynamics.

Enhancements have also been made to the Adaptive Damping System (ADS). The DBS 770 Ultimate has a unique damper calibration and software tune focusing on control and composure without compromising ride quality. By enhancing driver connection and preserving the DBS’ unmistakable continentcrossing character, the DBS 770 Ultimate elevates Aston Martin’s exemplary Super GT to even greater heights.

Just as the DBS 770 Ultimate has been mechanically honed, its appearance has also been amplified to present a more assertive design and uncompromisingly unique aesthetic befitting of a final edition model created to celebrate the end of an era.

Being an Aston Martin, this enhanced form also had to possess an authentic level of function - to provide increased airflow to the radiators, enhance thermal management, and to give greater visual road presence. Drawing increased airflow through the engine radiators, the clamshell bonnet features a dramatic ‘horse-shoe’ engine vent and a new front splitter integrates two new outboard vents. Together these serve to enhance cooling and echo the design signatures of previous DBS and V12 engine models.

Further design changes for DBS 770 Ultimate include a 2x2 Twill Carbon Fibre Cantrail, Windscreen Surround, Mirror Caps, and Fender Louvre as standard. A new carbon fibre sill element visually lowers the side profile towards the rear wheel, creating a poised stance that accentuates the DBS’s muscular physique. A unique design of the rear diffuser maintains aerodynamic balance from front to rear and ensures the DBS 770 Ultimate is as unmistakable from the rear as it is from the front.

DBS 770 Ultimate is further distinguished by a new and unique 21” wheel style available in three finishes. Taking inspiration from the formidable Aston Martin Valkyrie and Victor, this new 21” multi-spoke design is available in full Satin Silver finish, full Satin Black finish or the optional Satin Black with Diamond Turned finish to give a darker yet sophisticated appearance of the car. Pirelli P Zero highperformance tyres – 265/35 R21 front and 305/30 R21 at the rear – are standard fitments on all rims.

Inside, the DBS 770 Ultimate delights with a dazzling array of fresh design treatments that set it apart, while retaining the instantly recognisable cabin environment of the current DBS. The DBS 770 Ultimate comes with Sports Plus Seats trimmed in full semi-aniline leather and Alcantara, featuring a ‘fluted’ quilt and perforation pattern as standard.

Aston Martin’s performance seat can also be selected as an option. A bespoke trim split has been introduced, with contrast colours linked to welt and stitching, along with a tailor-made strap and buckle badge featuring a laser-etched DBS 770 Ultimate logo found on the centre armrest. Carbon Fibre Gearshift paddles are also fitted as standard.

The DBS 770 Ultimate is also fitted with a unique set of sill plaques showcasing the Aston Martin Wings, DBS 770 Ultimate logo and Limited-Edition numbering signifying the vehicle as one of 300 Coupes or 199 Volantes.

Like all Aston Martins, the scope for true one-of-a-kind personal specification is virtually limitless. A diverse range of Q by Aston Martin bespoke options are available on DBS 770 Ultimate, including Q liveries with assorted graphics options, painted wheels to match body or graphics colours, tinted carbon fibre and woven leather seat inserts, trim inlays and a carbon fibre steering wheel.

“When an iconic model generation reaches the end of production it is important to mark the occasion with something special,” says Roberto Fedeli, Aston Martin’s Chief Technology Officer. “In the case of the DBS 770 Ultimate, we have spared nothing in ensuring the final version of our current series production flagship is the best ever in every respect.”

Production of the DBS 770 Ultimate is due to commence in Q1 of 2023, with the first deliveries scheduled to begin during Q3 2023.

AMERICAN MUSCLE GETS ELECTRIC BOOST

For the seventieth anniversary of the Corvette, the American legend gets an electric boost

Seventy years ago, the Corvette was presented to the world at Motorama in New York City. To commemorate this occasion, the legendary American badge introduces the first-ever electrified version of the vehicle, known as the 2024 E-Ray. Developed to provide Corvette owners with a car that can be driven in any season, the E-Ray is available in both removable roof coupé and hardtop convertible models.

Utilizing electrification to enhance the driving experience, the E-Ray boasts intense straight-line performance and grand touring capabilities that can only be achieved with all-wheel-drive. Additionally, it is the only sports car that pairs two separate propulsion systems, resulting in a unique combination of naturally aspirated V-8 power with electrified responsiveness.

With a 0-100 kmph time of 2.5 seconds and a quarter-mile time of 10.5 seconds, the E-Ray is the quickest production Corvette in history. It has a 6.2L LT2 Small Block V-8 engine that produces 495 horsepower and 470 lb-ft of torque, and is complemented by an electric motor that provides an additional 160 horsepower and 125 lb-ft of torque through the front wheels, the E-Ray boasts a total of 655 horsepower.

“In 1953, the enthusiastic reaction to the Chevrolet Corvette concept kicked off seven decades of passion, performance and American ingenuity,” said Mark Reuss, General Motors president. “E-Ray, as the first electrified, all-wheel-drive Corvette, takes it a step further and expands the promise of what Corvette can deliver.”

The E-Ray boasts an intelligent all-wheel drive system - eAWD - that is constantly learns and adapts to the road surface and the needs of the driver. The system applies additional power to the front wheels during spirited driving and low traction environments for enhanced vehicle stability.

The E-Ray has a lightweight lithium-ion 12-volt battery that supports the LT2 V-8 engine’s stop-start functionality. This compact electric motor sits over the front axle, freeing up space in the front storage compartment, and offers exceptional acceleration and passing manoeuvrers.

Additionally, the vehicle is equipped with a standard Active Fuel Management system that utilizes the electric motor to extend 4-cylinder operation in various driving scenarios. The amount of electric assist is adjustable within each of the six driver-selectable modes, including Tour, Sport, Track, Weather, My Mode, and Z-Mode.

The Charge+ feature allows drivers to optimize the battery’s state of charge. The E-Ray Performance App, available on the infotainment system, provides drivers with technical insights into the propulsion system’s operation and features three primary display layouts: Gauges, Dyno, and Data.

The Chevrolet Corvette E-Ray is equipped with two driverinitiated electric modes that allow for electric propulsion under certain conditions. One of these modes, known as Stealth Mode, allows for all-electric driving at start-up for a limited time, with a maximum speed of 45 mph. This mode is intended for quiet driving in residential areas, and the engine will automatically engage if the vehicle exceeds this speed limit, if additional torque is requested by the driver, or if the E-Ray’s battery pack is depleted.

Additionally, the E-Ray’s eAWD control system applies torque to the front axle as needed, and the Charge+ feature can be utilized to maximize the battery’s state of charge for extended track driving. The custom-designed Performance Traction Management (PTM) modes are also optimized in conjunction with the eAWD propulsion system for enhanced track performance.

The E-Ray’s battery system does not require plug-in charging, as it is charged through regenerative energy from coasting and braking, as well as normal driving. The E-Ray

features a stealth mode, which is an electric drive mode for the street and can reach speeds up to 45 miles per hour.

It comes equipped with a standard Brembo Carbon Ceramic brake system for optimal braking performance. It has a Magnetic Ride Control 4.0 with three distinct suspension settings, staggered 20- and 21-inch wheels with Michelin Pilot Sport all-season tires, and a low, wide stance with crafted body styling that is 3.6 inches wider overall than the Stingray.

The E-Ray also offers a visceral sound experience that embodies the car’s domineering presence, thanks to the electric front motor which works in harmony with the LT2 engine to create an invigorating sound. It has an enhanced roster of driver assistance technologies, including Lane Keep Assist with Lane Departure Warning, Forward Collision Alert and Automatic Emergency Braking, which are shared with all 2024 Corvette models.

The E-Ray boasts a refined athletic styling and performancedriven design that is consistent with what Corvette customers have come to expect. Its purposeful, wide-body proportions are similar to those of the Z06, and it features exclusive twisted five-spoke star-design alloy wheels that manage its greater torque delivery. The vehicle offers a variety of exterior colour options, including new Riptide Blue, Seawolf Gray, and Cacti.

It also features an exclusive Electric Blue body-length stripe package, standard carbon flash badging, and optional carbon fibre ground effects and wheels. The interior of the E-Ray, dubbed the Artemis Dipped, boasts deep green tones and offers multiple options for customization. The vehicle also includes updates to its infotainment system and instrument cluster for a more integrated appearance.

SERIOUSLY IMPRESSIVE PLAYTHINGS

The Little Car Company has carved out a niche for itself at the top of the scale-replica game

The Little Car Company, established in 2019, has seen substantial growth since its inception. The company has collaborated with three of the most reputable car manufacturers - Bugatti, Ferrari and Aston Martin - to produce over 200 scale electric cars of exceptional quality. Each model is meticulously hand-crafted at the company’s Bicester Heritage headquarters, utilizing approximately 95% British-sourced components.

The brand has a diverse clientele spanning more than 50 countries, with the majority of its cars being shipped internationally. The company’s current manufacturing facility, measuring 10,000 square feet, currently allows for a weekly output of up to five cars. However, with the recent addition of an adjacent 10,000 square feet manufacturing facility, the output is expected to triple.

The increased production will be driven by the company’s fourth model, the Tamiya Wild One MAX and a fifth model that has yet to be disclosed. The three models currently in production are the Bugatti Baby II, Ferrari Testa Rossa J and the Aston Martin DB5 Junior.

The Little Car Company and Bugatti collaborated to create the Baby II, in commemoration of Bugatti’s 110th anniversary, and as a modern interpretation of Ettore Bugatti’s Bugatti Baby, which was originally gifted to his youngest son Roland. It is a 75% scale, fully electric recreation of the renowned Bugatti Type 35. This new iteration was developed using a comprehensive 3D scan of an original 1924 French Grand Prix car.

The Baby II, adorned with a solid silver Bugatti Macaron, is a limited-edition release, with only 500 units being produced. Additionally, a special Carbon Edition of the Baby II has been created exclusively for W16 Mistral owners. This edition is tailored to each customer’s specifications, and is designed to complement the exterior and interior styling of the W16 Mistral.

The Ferrari Testa Rossa J is a highly accurate reproduction of the iconic Ferrari 250 Testa Rossa, a model that holds a significant place in the history of both Ferrari and motor racing. Developed and constructed using original drawings from the Ferrari Classiche archives, this tribute model is limited to only 299 cars.

In keeping with Ferrari’s tradition, the Testa Rossa J offers a wide range of customization options, exclusively designed by the Centro Stile. The Centro Stile team has conducted an extensive search of the Ferrari Classiche archives to identify some of the most iconic racing liveries that have been applied to the Ferrari 250 Testa Rossa over time.

They have evaluated all possible body and interior colour combinations, providing customers with a vast array of interior and exterior personalization options while remaining true to the Ferrari style, including historic liveries discovered by the Ferrari Classiche team.

More than half a century after its initial launch, the iconic Aston Martin DB5 was reimagined in 2020, as a 66% scale replica of the original. It boasts a rear-wheel-drive, fully electric powertrain as well as multiple driving modes. In keeping with the exclusivity of the original, only 1,059 of these models will

be produced and offered in three limited-edition variants - the DB5 Junior, the DB5 Vantage Junior and the DB5 Junior No Time To Die Edition.

Each of the DB5 Junior vehicles produced features classic Aston Martin badges, Silver Birch paintwork, Smiths instruments, and individually numbered chassis plates. The DB5 Junior comes with swappable lithium-ion battery packs and regenerative braking.

Other features include a full leather interior in a range of colours, a mahogany and aluminium steering wheel, bonnet and boot that open. It has four-wheel disc brakes, a hydraulic

handbrake, as well as double wishbone suspension at the front, with the roll centre and camber gain matching the original geometry. The rear live axle is also in line with the original, with authentic upper and lower trailing-arm suspension and panhard rod.

The Little Car Company’s upcoming model, The Wild One MAX will bring to life a legend from the RC world. It will be a rear-wheel drive, off-road electric buggy that is an upscaled version o the RC toy that can be driven. As with the previous models, it appears The Little Car Company has another collectable classic on its hands.

CASUALLY ELEGANT

The Brunello Cucinelli Men’s Spring Summer 2023 collection epitomises casual elegance

The Brunello Cucinelli Men’s Spring Summer 2023 collection converges contemporary trends and artisanal expertise. It epitomizes a preference for relaxed refinement, which is based on an expertly balanced combination of sophistication and vivacity. This adept nonchalance is nourished by traditional knowledge and presents a novel approach to style: one that is both new and imaginative, and capable of imparting harmony and coherence to any event.

The preeminent feature of the current season is the suit, serving as a conduit for business elegance, leisure, and summer dressing. Blazers and trousers may also be worn individually, showcasing the modern versatility of the suit in a captivating and dynamic manner that adapts to the evolving needs of the day.

The calibrated softness of knitwear volumes, trousers, T-shirts, and shirts elevate the feeling of ease and comfort found in contemporary and casual suits. The deliberate combination of natural fibres, special textures, and mélange or délavé effects give depth to the colours, enhancing the lightest fabrics.

Colours play a prominent role in the collection, in all categories of clothing, and are characterized by a rich variety of declinations. The prominent colours include ginger-hued red, salmon orange, sunflower yellow, and a wide range of light blues such as periwinkle, Oxford, and ultramarine.

These colours combine harmoniously with an array of greys, blues, and, in particular, light beiges, which serve as the cornerstone of the collection. Patterns are of secondary importance in comparison to the variety of textures, structures, and special colour-enriching effects, such as délavé and mélange. These effects endow elements throughout the collection with threedimensionality and unique characteristics.

The utilization of fresh and natural yarns, enriched by vibrant seasonal hues and refined details, imbues ample creativity into lightweight and summery knitwear, showcasing a contemporary appeal within traditional stitches. The Brunello Cucinelli collections unite classic models and distinctive proposals with new lightweight sweaters that re-imagine the breezy style of T-shirts and polo shirts with exceptional craftsmanship.

The collection of accessories has been enriched with high-quality materials and exquisite craftsmanship. It aptly complements one’s appearance while fulfilling new requirements in a versatile and modern way. The assortment of footwear styles has been expanded to enhance the selection for a variety of occasions. These styles range from formal to casual, with a focus on both lightweight and dynamic options.

Additionally, a capsule collection dedicated to summer features relaxed designs that incorporate rope details reminiscent of a nautical aesthetic. The footwear collection is characterized by its careful selection of natural and innovative materials, as well as its attention to lightness, comfort, and flexibility.

LUXURY MEETS STREET: BENTLEY X THE SURGEON

Bentley Motors is collaborating with The Surgeon to create a line of limited-edition Bentley-inspired sneakers, which will be unveiled at Art Basel Miami design week

Bentley Motors is collaborating with renowned custom shoe designer Dominic Ciambrone, known as The Surgeon, to create a limited-edition line of Bentley-inspired sneakers. The collaboration will bring together the two icons of design to create unique fashion pieces. Bentley will unveil a one-of-a-kind Bentley x The Surgeon vehicle next month during Art Basel Miami, and the buyer of the car will receive a matching pair of one-of-a-kind sneakers, the Bentley x The Surgeon adidas Forum Low.

Dominic is known for combining high fashion with street culture and using ultra-premium materials to create his own inimitable style. The collaboration between Bentley and The Surgeon began in early 2022 when Dominic visited the Bentley campus in Crewe to learn about the brand and the materials, finishes, and bespoke elements used in its creations. He worked with Bentley’s coachbuilding division, Bentley Mulliner, to add creative details and bespoke elements to his designs. Each pair of the limited-edition, handcrafted sneakers features unique elements, such as Bentley’s signature diamond quilting, cross-stitching found on the steering wheel, and premium hides used to trim Bentley’s interiors. These elements are combined with The Surgeon’s signature aesthetic and skull-and-scalpel monogram.

Three different pairs of sneakers will be created to embody the different Bentley model ranges. One pair will have a performance focus, reflecting Bentley’s S and Speed ranges and featuring a Titan Grey and deep red Cricket Ball color palette. Another pair will have a wellbeing focus, as per Bentley’s new Azure range of models, and will be highlighted with Saddle-colored details inside. The third pair will be a pinnacle design to match a bespoke Mulliner collaboration car, with more information to be revealed in December.

Christophe Georges, President & CEO of Bentley Americas, said of the collaboration: “Creativity and bespoke design are consistently woven into our DNA and have been since 1919, especially with our private coachbuilding Mulliner

division. Connecting and producing with a likeminded creative like The Surgeon is not only rewarding but also exciting to watch as we support the next generation of diverse craftspeople who share similar brand values.”

Dominic Ciambrone added: “Growing up, I was building, painting and sewing – and not just shoes – it was anything I could get my hands on. This is a very special time for The Surgeon brand and to showcase our creativity in a new light, collaborating with Bentley. The Bentley brand is at the top of its craft and represents luxury and craftsmanship at the highest level as we do— it’s very exciting to partner with them and bring these visions to life.”

SIMPLY PRACTICAL

Bottega Veneta debut’s the Andiamo bag in its Summer 23 collection

Debut within Bottega Veneta’s Summer 23 collection is Andiamo, a bag that is as elegant as it is functional. Designed by Creative Director Matthieu Blazy, based on his founding principle for Bottega Veneta: ‘craft in motion,’ the bag is a new expression of the signature intrecciato technique realised by the craftsmanship of Bottega Veneta’s atelier in Italy. Meaning “Let’s go” in Italian, Andiamo embodies the spirit of the bag - a tribute to ‘going places.’

Andiamo’s soft tapered volume embodies pragmatism and timelessness. It is a carry-all with a soft leather body. With the option to wear it over your shoulder or hand-held with the top handle. A metal knot adorns and fastens its sliding braided straps, allowing it to be adjusted. The metal hook, a continuation of the Knot family, has subtle brass detailing to add a sculptural effect to this classic.

Structural yet clean, Andiamo has rounded corners and is made entirely of paper calf leather. The soft, dynamic design is a vision for elevated everyday living, fitting into the modern tailoring and versatile footwear seen throughout SS23.

Andiamo in Small, Medium and Large sizes are available in Glacier (a very light teal), Fondant (dark brown), Barolo (a rich maroon), Travertine (beige

GOLFING CHIC

Berluti Presents Its New Golf Capsule Collection for the style-conscious golfer

The intrinsic values of golf – passion, fair play, perseverance, temperance, and intelligence – come together with Berluti’s craftsmanship and sense of modernity, as the maison unveils a capsule collection dedicated to this gentlemen’s sport.

The collection is made up of an elegant jacket with leather detailing, also available in a sleeveless version, and a pair of matching casual pants. A sweater and a polo shirt - in knit or breathable jersey piqué – have

been initialled with the Berluti B on the chest.

The ensemble also comprises accessories and shoes. Among the footwear options, the new leather Swing lace-up derby boasts a sole designed for golfing, and comes in Nero Grigio, Nero Verde, Black or Brown patina.

Berluti also introduces a cap, a visor, a golf ball case, and a cotton and linen bag with two handles in Nero Verde patinated leather. Ideal for accompanying golfers as they

make their way around the course.

The centrepiece of this capsule collection is a golf bag in Venezia leather with a Nero Verde patina. It is handmade to special order and comes equipped with four aluminium tees, three golf balls, and three headcovers. An utterly unique object, the bag can be monogrammed with the owner’s initials and constitutes a real first, both for Berluti and possibly for the world of golf.

HERMÈS TIES

The new printed ties from the Objets collection appeal to an assortment of tastes, from the conservative to the playful. An example of the latter plays with motifs scattered at random, like the daisy petals from Philippe Mouquet’s Je t’aime, un peu design. The sevencentimetre spring ties are available in printed silk twill, heavy silk, and chevron linen.

MAISON MARGIELA AND GENTLE MONSTER EYEWEAR COLLECTION

The French haute couture house Maison Margiela and the global fashion eyewear brand Gentle Monster have collaborated to produce an eyewear collection which includes sunglasses and spectacles. Structured in acetate, the designs have been interpreted in glossy colours and effects spanning black, white, grey, cream, transparent and tortoiseshell.

CARRYING MODULARITY

Here are the new additions to Montblanc’s signature leather goods line, The Sartorial Collection

The design refresh of Montblanc’s leather goods collections continues with new additions to its signature business collection – The Sartorial Collection. The new designs include bags and smaller accessories in softer leather with a deep two-tone effect and new colours. The new designs also introduce a modularity system that allows small pieces to be attached to larger bags, creating new functionalities, as well as styling and customization options.

The design codes for Montblanc’s Sartorial are rooted in the maison’s writing heritage. Recognizable ink bottles from the Montblanc archive have inspired the triangular design of the handles, while the construction of the sides of the bags evoke the opening of an envelope with two overlapping pieces of leather.

“While this collection has a timeless and classic quality with modern shapes that can be used every day, there is no reason why the pieces shouldn’t be fun and creative. That’s where the idea for the modular feature came from – a way to express individual style while finding new functionality for each piece. We’ve given personality and life to a more modern all-black bag, so that it can be changed every season or to create a different look,” says Marco Tomasetta, Montblanc’s Artistic Director.

The extensive assortment of large, medium and small leather pieces fall into five categories. The largest being the Document Cases and Backpacks – both in large, medium and small sizes. They have sufficient space for technical devices, A4 documents and other business essentials, including precious writing instruments in dedicated pockets.

The Open Totes are suitable for a more casual approach to work. They feature a classic vertical design and a new trapeze silhouette offering multi-wearable options with short handles

in leather and longer handles in fabric. The capacity of the new tote can also be enlarged thanks to press buttons on the sides.

A Bowling Bag with zip closure can be carried by hand, or on the shoulder thanks to the adjustable and detachable shoulder strap. With its wide capacity, it is a great companion from day to night, from business to leisure, and every occasion in between.

Compact bags in the new selection include envelopeshaped Pouches, a Mini Bag and a Mini Messenger featuring a back-side leather band that fits the handles of document cases and totes, adding functionality to the larger pieces as well as allure. Essential business companions include a Laptop Case with a front handle, a Notebook and a Notepad Holder.

Wallets, Card Holders, Pen Pouches and Key Fobs make up the small accessory assortment, in a variety of colours as well as a new Phone Pouch that can be attached to Document Cases and totes so as to have tech devices always at hand.

In addition to these, the Montblanc Summit 3 Smartwatch also gets a Sartorial edit with the addition of leather straps in two new colours and a new watch face featuring customizable initials.

While Black and Forged Iron are the main colours for the bags, small accessories are also offered in Red, Blue, British Green, Ivory and a tone of burgundy called Mosto. These colours create a bold contrast when attached to larger pieces using the modular system created for the collection. According to the brand, the leather used throughout the collection has undergone a CO2-neutral tanning process.

ROYAL TONES

Parfums de Marly’s Pegasus is the quintessential French gentlemen’s perfume

Housed in a gleaming silver bottle with a matching stopper, Pegasus is a heady Fougere scent. This Parfums de Marly signature olfactory composition is true to its roots as a gentleman’s fragrance. An “ode to natural beauty,” this intense and vibrant fragrance strikes a balance between strength and elegance. It is best suited for spring, fall and winter, either as a day or night fragrance.

The scent opens with a balance of fruit, wood and spice, developed from a blend of cypress, bergamot and heliotrope. Its heart offers a beautifully intertwined combination of jasmine, lavender, and bitter almond, creating a powdery, fresh fragrance. The base, featuring vanilla fused with an oriental twist of amber and sandalwood, was convinced to linger on the skin.

Parfums de Marly was founded in 2009 by Julien Sprecher. His love of perfumes was passed down from his father, and was strongly influenced by the history of the palace and gardens of Versailles, located in the vicinity where he was born and raised. The brand takes its name from the Chevaux de Marly, commissioned by King Louis XV in 1743, as his pleasure palace, hosting extravagant celebrations.

The 18th century is also considered the pinnacle of French elegance, with perfumes being an essential element of refinement. The King’s court was so obsessed with perfumes that it was dubbed the “perfumed court” - pouches, fans, gloves and even fountains were doused with perfume.

The brand’s “signature” fragrances have a strong position and concepts that are short, striking, and direct. Although they have been curated to express a refined and contemporary lifestyle, they are very much in line with the codes and heritage of the 18th-century royal court of France. Each Parfums de Marly fragrance has its own personal olfactory experience, but always with a trace of French elegance.

RADIANCE BY LIGHT

Foreo’s new UFO 2 adds LED light therapy to its impressive bouquet of treatments

Foreo’s innovative app-connected facial care device, UFO 2 promises to deliver “flawless skin with minimum effort” through a combination of LED light therapy, Thermo-therapy, Cryo-therapy, and T-Sonic pulsations that supercharge the mask facial. This unique combination of technologies can also effectively and safely treat a wide range of skin concerns such as wrinkles, uneven skin tone, hyperpigmentation, and acne.

With its Hyper-Infusion Technology, in combination with heat and massage, UFO 2 pushes active ingredients deep into the skin where they work best and provide a nourishing treatment. It can be used with specially designed UFOactivated masks or Foreo sheet masks, which provide pre-programmed routines via the Foreo app. The app also allows users to customize their routines and use their own preferred masks according to individual skin concerns.

In addition, UFO 2’s innovative incorporation of LED light therapy delivers a non-invasive, painless, and safe treatment that uses eight different levels of intensity and wavelengths of light. LED light therapy has been traditionally used in dermatology clinics and spas. Its popularity has risen over the years not only due to its anti-ageing and anti-blemish claims, the two major skincare concerns, but also due to its multi-functional, results-oriented and efficacious nature.

Red LED is known to increase blood circulation, stimulate collagen production and encourages cell regeneration, diminishing the appearance of wrinkles and age spots. Blue LED eliminates inflammation and bacteria that cause acne. Green LED improves complexion and fades dark spots by inhibiting the production of excess melanin.

White LED penetrates deeper into the skin, reduces inflammation, and accelerates tissue healing. Purple LED, a combination of red and blue LED, promotes cell regeneration and eliminates toxins. The orange LED revitalises skin for that youthful, natural glow. The yellow LED helps treat sunburns and reduce inflammation, while Cyan LED promotes healing, blocks pain, and reduces the size of swollen capillaries.

Foreo, the Sweden-based leader in innovative skincare technology, now offers the benefits of LED light therapy in the comfort of one’s home with its UFO 2, a full-spectrum LED light device. By using a variety of wavelengths of light, the treatment can be tailored to the specific needs of the individual user.

FASCINATING NARRATIVES

THAT Concept Store curates the first Guy Bourdin exhibition and artwork sale in the region

The homegrown destination for modern and contemporary luxury, THAT Concept Store, has expanded its curated art category by debuting the artwork of Guy Bourdin in the region. The store’s newest art venture, coinciding with the run-up to art month in Dubai, also marks the beginning of a new partnership with fine art e-commerce platform ap8.art.

The Guy Bourdin exhibition - a collaboration between THAT Concept Store and ap8.art – sets the stage for future artistic endeavours that will engage audiences with artworks in “bold ways” - where curated masterworks from artistic greats, reimagine the concept of art collecting and luxury.

THAT Concept Store, in collaboration with ap8.art, offers customers, art collectors, and fashion aficionados the rare opportunity to acquire museum-quality artworks in large formats. This special exhibition of Guy Bourdin includes 17 large-format, hand-printed, and framed photographs by the universally revered French artist and fashion photographer, exclusively available at THAT Concept Store.

“We are delighted to mark the start of a new collaboration between THAT Concept Store and the prestigious ap8.art, showcasing this iconic exhibition for our discerning customers. We are committed to continuously evolving THAT’s lifestyle section through the development of diversified product categories that deliver a unique customer experience, and by

joining forces with ap8.art, we are able to deliver exclusive artwork to the region, making the collecting of art even more accessible,” said Fahed Ghanim, CEO, Majid Al Futtaim Lifestyle, following the launch of the exhibition.

A Parisian by birth and nurture, Guy Bourdin (1928-1991) was drawn to the arts. He began experimenting with painting and drawing, before taking his first photographs in the late 1940s. In 1951 Guy met the surrealist photographer Man Ray in Paris and became his protege. The surrealist influence in his work is often attributed to his close relationship with Man Ray, who in 1952 wrote the catalogue forward for Bourdin’s first solo exhibition.

Guy Bourdin’s career spanned more than forty years during which time he worked for the world’s leading fashion houses and magazines. From his early editorial fashion commissions, Guy revealed his distinct style. His photographs went beyond fashion, and are considered technically impossible in the predigital era of retouching.

Equally fascinated by the films of Alfred Hitchcock, Guy Bourdin would meticulously construct scenes evoking a mysterious plot or creating a subliminal tension engaging the curiosity of the viewer. An image maker and a perfectionist, he was never predictable and broke the conventions of commercial photography playing with the absurd and sublime simultaneously.

Guy Bourdin was a pioneer in presenting fashion photographs that contained fascinating narratives. He also believed that the product is secondary to the image. His skilful use of plot and perspective, meticulous compositions, hyper colour and contrast, take Guy Bourdin’s photographs well beyond the simple page of a magazine. Guy Bourdin’s pioneering techniques and the legacy of his irrefutable artistic style still influence the top art and fashion photographers today. Long after his death in 1991, his photographs continue to captivate.

His work has been exhibited in the most prestigious museums, including The Victoria & Albert Museum, Tate, The Jeu de Paume, The Getty Museum, The National Art Museum of China, The Tokyo Metropolitan Museum of Photography and The Moscow House of Photography. The first retrospective exhibition of his work was held at the Victoria & Albert Museum in London in 2003. The Tate is permanently exhibiting a part of its Guy Bourdin collection with works made between 1950 and 1955. The exhibition by THAT Concept Store is the first-ever exhibition of his work in the Middle East.

“It has been a dream of mine to bring this sumptuous exhibition to the Middle East. There is no better place than

THAT to showcase the artworks of the iconic Guy Bourdinthe photographer who was responsible for elevating fashion photography to an art form. This curated and framed collection is going to transform the home of collectors in Dubai and beyond,” says Viola Raikhel, Curator, and cofounder of ap8.art.

THAT Concept Store’s curated edit of Guy Bourdin’s photography includes a selection of his most iconic and recognisable images known for their luxurious yet visceral attitudes. Shot between 1970-1979, this collection showcases his bold aesthetic, fusing art, fashion, and culture.

By embracing new technology, ap8.art has made art more accessible and trustworthy than ever before. Every piece of artwork is authenticated by a digital code. This code is linked to each artwork, providing the buyer with a record of provenance and value.

Additionally, THAT Concept Store has ensured that every single artwork purchased from this exclusive collection is ready for hanging – making it even easier for customers to find the perfect piece for their home, without compromising on quality or style.

HELLENIC DELIGHTS

A meal at Opa, the Greek restaurant, is much more than just a dining experience

Opa, the Greek exclamatory word, is the name and the spirit of the fine-dine restaurant serving traditional Greek cuisine at the Fairmont Hotel, Sheikh Zayed Road.

The décor transports guests to the Mediterraneanwhite walls interspersed with blue accent elements and greenery throughout. To heighten the sense of occasion, the interior features artworks exhibiting the Grecian coastline. The venue can accommodate up to 150 seated diners.

The restaurant serves delectable bites, such as the Calamari, traditional homemade spinach pie or the flaming saganaki. The entrees consist of Greek classic dishes such as the Mousaka, featuring a 48hour slow-braised beef short rib, complemented by spiced aubergine and potato terrine, with local Kassseri cheese and burnt onion jus.

The restaurant’s signature dish is its traditional Greek Lamb Chops, accompanied by a rich and flavourful Tzatziki. A selection of dishes such as the Peinirli Cheese and Ladenia are prepared in the venue’s stone oven, providing a rustic flavour to each preparation. The dessert selection comprises popular dishes such as the hot chocolate fondant or the Milopita, a spiced apple-filled phyllo pastry. Opa’s entertainment has become its mainstay –complete with Greek dancers. Their signature plate smashing, after the Greek tradition, has become the highlight of the restaurant’s rich array of entertainment offerings.

The success of Opa Dubai has led to branch openings in Saint-Tropez, Mumbai, Bahrain and a pop-up in Riyadh.

MEDITERRANEAN SUNSETS

A new Sunset menu by Tonino Lamborghini aims to recreate the Mediterranean spirit in Dubai

Tonino Lamborghini Mare Nostrum, the Mediterranean sky-pool and restaurant, has introduced a new Sunset Aperitivo menu featuring small bites and signature cocktails with a range of Italian Mediterranean flavours. The new menu is perfect for winding down the day, surrounded by idyllic views of the Dubai skyline.

The array of Italian-inspired small bites includes Truffle & Comté Cheese Croquettes, Citrus Tuna Tartare and Vitello Tonnato. The Antipasto Platter comes with seasonal Wagyu Beef & veal cured meats, seasonal artisan cheeses and olives - paired with a selection of refreshments. The latter includes Limoncello and three classic Italian cocktails, but with a refined modern twist.

Sunset Aperitivo is served from 4 PM to 8 PM, Mondays through Fridays. Guests can enjoy the soothing sounds of violinists and singers live every Friday, amid the rustic Mediterranean interior of the venue.

IZAKAYA WITH A TWIST

Zuma’s new brunch menu offers its best sellers with a sophisticated twist to the Izakaya style of serving

Zuma - the restaurant co-founded by Chef Rainer Becker serving sophisticated Japanese cuisine – recently unveiled the new Baikingu Brunch at its locations in Dubai and Abu Dhabi. The new brunch menu offers an extensive selection of dishes from Zuma’s tasting menu, served with a twist on the traditional Japanese izakaya style of informal eating.

The Baikingu Brunch includes a selection of starters such as Zuma’s signature shrimp tempura with yuzu chilli mayo, crispy fried squid, and an assortment of sashimi, nigiri and maki. The offering will also feature the beef yakiniku with tahoon mayo from the live robata cooking station. The main course includes miso marinated black cod, jumbo tiger prawns, and grilled Australian wagyu ribeye with truffle mayo. To end on a sweet note, guests can indulge in an assortment of desserts including sorbets, ice creams, chocolates and exotic fruits.

VARIETY FAIR

Café Belge presents a fresh bouquet of packages for this Spring season

To celebrate the onset of Spring, Café Belge at The Ritz-Carlton DIFC has unveiled a bouquet of packages to satisfy a broad range of dining and entertainment needs. The venue was conceived to capture the spirit of a 1920s European café, particularly that of the golden jazz era of Belgium. It serves a cuisine featuring traditional Belgian dishes and fresh seafood, paired with the finest beverages.

The Cigar Room, which opened its doors in September, is an exclusive area within Café Belge for the discerning cigar connoisseur. Enjoy aged spirits, classic cocktails and a signature menu highlighting the best from the cuisines at the RitzCarlton DIFC. For more formal occasions, there is the restaurant’s Business Lunch which includes tea or coffee.

The restaurant opens its doors for Ladies’ Night every Tuesday from 7 PM until 11 PM. The fun and conversations are accompanied by the in-house DJ’s selections. The venue also hosts the longest Happy Hours in town, from 12 PM to 7 PM. Guests can relish an array of delectable Belgium dishes as an accompaniment to the range of selected beverages during the early hours of the evening. The weekend lunch deal at Café Belge was specially created to satisfy those who are looking for a relaxed and laid-back weekend affair. Indulge in a Belgian-inspired two-course or three-course set menu, accompanied by beverages.

SPRING BOUQUET

We have highlighted some of the experiences on offer at Emirates Towers for this spring

For this Spring, Jumeirah Emirates Towers has curated a selection of exclusive experiences for Dubai residents. For this year’s Ramadan, the hotel offers a premium experience for iftar and suhoor at its ‘Terrace Between the Towers.’ Set against the backdrop of Dubai’s Museum of the Future, the elegant venue will have an Arabesque setting where guests can dine under the stars while taking in spectacular views of the city’s skyline.

Guests will be able to savour a range of Middle Eastern and global culinary favourites, from Ramadan classics to modern favourites, served at a luxury buffet spread featuring various live stations. The dining experience is serenaded with live Arabic entertainment.

The menu, prepared by Chef Reiner Lupfer and his team, will offer a selection including slow-roasted lamb ouzi, live stations for shawarma, grill stations serving fish, shish taouk, kofta, and marinated prawns. Traditional Arabic sweets include cheese kunafa, luqaimat, camel ice cream, and more. This year, the culinary team will also source locally grown produce in support of the country’s sustainability initiative.

The Ramadan Majlis at Jumeirah Emirates Tower can accommodate 700 guests. It will be open from the first day of Ramadan and available daily throughout the holy month from sunset onwards.

Emirates Towers is now home to Dasha – The Dubai Chapter, a gourmet six-month pop-up featuring a menu of new dishes specially curated by chef Akira Back. With its stunning views of the World Islands and Dubai coastline, this venue offers the ideal setting for a truly exclusive experience.

Hailing from Korea, Chef Akira Back has been at the forefront of cutting-edge cuisine for 20 years, with a repertoire of restaurants across the globe – from Las Vegas to Seoul. At Dasha, diners are offered the chance to try a mix of new dishes and cocktails, as well as some hand-selected from the menus of Back’s 24 concepts and restaurants.

Guests can enjoy a pre-or post-dinner beverage at the 51stfloor bar, taking the staircase that leads to the restaurant. The bar offers an exclusive beverage programme with both signature and elevated drinks including the best-loved creations from Back’s restaurants.

The Agency, a wine bar and lounge popular throughout the noughties has been given a “vintage revival.” Featuring dark wood and crimson velvet interiors, the venue exudes an old-world feel. Its extensive selection of grapesby-the-glass is presented by a team of knowledgeable sommeliers. The culinary team, led by Executive Chef Reiner Lupfer, has curated an innovative menu to pair with select beverages using a concept-sharing approach.

The selection features best-in-class ingredients with a focus on cured meat and cheeses.

As one of the newest additions to the hotel, The Agency attracts a clientele that wants to enjoy the retro vibe of yesteryear – through its art deco-inspired interiors. With a full jazz band installation, the soundtrack embraces jazz in all its forms, and includes classic jazz favourites.

Every afternoon from 2:30 pm to 6 pm, Afternoon Tea connoisseurs can enjoy the soothing daily performances by pianists and cellists while indulging in the high tea experience at the hotel’s Daefi Lobby Lounge. located on the ground level of the hotel, the venue embodies the essence of traditional Bedouin hospitality in a contemporary interior setting. For guests looking to host a deluxe afternoon tea at home, Daefi’s culinary team has also created a takeaway version of the experience, creatively packaged in a similar ready-to-serve architecture-inspired encasement.

For those who want a break, but don’t want the hassle of travel, there is the ‘Ultimate City Staycation’ package.

It offers 20 per cent savings on rooms on weekdays and an additional 5 per cent on weekends, and that’s just the start. Guests receive 20 per cent off on meals at selected restaurants, complimentary beach access, a guaranteed late check-out, daily buffet breakfast at Mundo, and complimentary access to the temperature-controlled pool and the J Club.

Once per stay, guests can enjoy a complimentary day at the Wild Wadi Waterpark. Those who prefer to relax can avail the exquisite services at the Talise Spa at 20%

discount. Accommodation options include Deluxe Rooms, Premier Deluxe Rooms, Family Suites, Club Rooms, Junior Suites, and Executive Suites, each elegantly furnished with views of the Dubai skyline.

Emirates Towers has curated an impressive selection of experiences that seek to fulfil a broad range of needs - from a memorable Ramadan dining experience, to the exclusivity of the Dasha pop-up or to savour the retro vibes at The Agency or the sophistication of an afternoon tea, or just to get away for a while without really going too far.

ALFRESCO BY THE BEACH

San at the Palm Jumeirah has become one of the best beachfront dining options in Dubai

San is a luxurious beach club that comprises an indoor restaurant and two outdoor beachfront dining and lounging areas. Located near the top end of Palm West Beach, on the trunk of Palm Jumeirah, it is the first beach club concept by Food Fund International, the company responsible for some of Dubai’s most sought-after dining venues, including Taverna, The Meat Co, Clay.

The indoor space is a large open-plan restaurant with an open kitchen. The venue is renowned for its attention to detail, from the artfully designed plates, bowls and cups to the Bugatti-branded knives and forks.

The venue serves breakfast, lunch and dinner, with dishes inspired primarily by the Mediterranean region. Signature dishes from the kitchen include truffle pizza, as well as prawn tempura maki with freshly grated wasabi, or fried prawns in panko batter. In its breakfast

menu, San serves a selection of exotic teas such as the nutty and velvety ceremonial grade matcha from Fukuoka, Japan, or the snow white tea combined with sweet bamboo leaves and cranberries.

The top part of the exterior space has a temperature-controlled infinity pool,

seating for alfresco dining, a submerged pool bar with marble counters, a DJ booth and opulent cabanas. The lower level, which extends onto the beach, has sun loungers with premium bedding and luxury beach villas that can accommodate up to six guests.

ENCHANTING HIDEAWAY

Phulay Bay, the first Ritz-Carlton Reserve property takes bespoke luxury up a notch

Ritz-Carlton Reserve is the brand’s ultra-luxury extension offering guests exotic hideaway destinations around the world. Phulay Bay is the very first Ritz-Carlton Reserve property to open its doors. The concept was created for those who seek to escape the stresses of everyday life and immerse themselves into a completely bespoke experience. In other words, each Ritz-Carlton Reserve experience is tailored to suit the specific needs of the guest.

Set on the shores of the Andaman Sea, in Krabi, Thailand, Phulay Bay is a striking 54-villa and pavilion boutique resort offering unspoilt views of the naturally rugged shoreline and dramatic limestone karsts which make up this beautiful part of southern Thailand.

Designed by the renowned Thai architect Lek Bunnag, the resort is an inspiring combination of modern styling and architecture. It is grand and oversized in scale with distinctive accents primarily from Thai culture, along with hints of Middle Eastern and Moroccan. Bunnag has created an environment where the senses are continuously triggered and enlivened from the moment guests enter the resort driveway to the moment they leave.

Upon arrival, guests are greeted by 20ft high aubergine walls and ‘hedges’ made from indigenous trees, creating a sense of wonder from the outside and a sense of peace and stillness

once on the inside. Guests enter the resort through the high walls and walk over a stepping-stone pathway that leads them to a magnificent pitched-roof Thai pavilion situated on an island surrounded by thousands of gently flickering candles. Once inside the accommodation, guests are subtly introduced to the resort’s signature scent while indulging in the resort’s welcome drink and taking in the stunning scenery. The furnishings in the villas and restaurants are covered in 100% Thai silk.

“When styling and designing Phulay Bay, we were very conscious of the abundant natural beauty surrounding us which is what makes people fall in love with Thailand,” the resort’s General Manager explains. “We want guests to enjoy and discover the extraordinary diversity so have worked with nature to maintain a setting that evokes the very best of the natural environment and sourced local and sustainable materials in its construction and styling.”

The contemporary interiors and public spaces of the resort were designed to complement the local culture and the natural flora of existing trees and plants. The latter also doubles as privacy screens throughout the grounds. Lanna, the traditional story-telling art, lends itself to the architectural structure and also in paintings and artworks on the walls and doors of villas.

Each of the resort’s 16 signature Reserve Pool Villas is unique, being slightly different in physical design and styling. Guests can opt for a villa with a lap pool and lawn area for sun worshipping, a private rooftop for alfresco dining and sunset viewing, or a completely secluded pool bathing area for total privacy. However, every accommodation has oversized 4x2-metre beds, deep sunken baths, walk-in closets, expansive decked gardens and vast ‘keyhole’ doorways that create a welcoming setting.

With an emphasis on personalised, bespoke experiences, guests can ‘design’ or tailor-make their visit to suit their needs. The dedicated villa butler can, for example, organise a romantic BBQ dinner at a favourite beach spot, a meditation class with local monks, a helicopter tour of the region’s dramatic scenery, an in-villa personal yoga session, or a boat journey to surrounding islands. The customisation possibilities are seemingly endless.

The culinary experiences, as one would expect from a RitzCarlton property, is world-class, and available at the resort’s five intimate and carefully thought-out restaurants and bars. Each venue is designed to accommodate a small number of guests for highly personalised and non-intrusive service. The chef personally meets diners to better understand their tastes and preferences and all ingredients are sourced from local markets and cooked fresh.

The resort’s signature Thai restaurant, Sri Trang, is a modern and stylish venue with a private dining room for ten, set on

a private jetty overlooking the shoreline. Lae Lay, the resort’s seafront pavilion sits parallel to a 23-metre infinity pool stretching out to the sea. Beautifully appointed with oversized chairs and hanging lanterns among rustling trees, guests can also choose to dine under the stars on their private sala, seating up to 8 guests.

Plai Fah, the infinity pool bar offers soft loungers and silk pillows by day with lighter more relaxed culinary offerings, while the resort’s sunset bar Chomtawan, offers day beds, a chill-out lounge, live music and fire torches for an intimate and relaxing feel.

The Spa at Phulay Bay is a sanctuary for relaxation with stepping stones meandering through the spa, and leading to decked walkways and relaxation terraces. The latter is surrounded by vegetation and reflection ponds that capture the unique character of Phulay Bay. The Spa itself comprises three traditional Thai pavilions set over two levels offering 11 treatment rooms including single and couples massage rooms and two VIP treatment suites with attached expansive decks for massage and showering.

Phulay Bay, which means “where the mountains meet the sea” is a truly spellbinding place. And on such an enchanting tropical paradise setting sits a Ritz-Carlton Reserve that takes the definition of luxury hospitality to a whole new level.

MIDDLE EASTERN FORAY

TimeVallée’s first foray into the Middle Eastern region is a grand boutique at Qatar Duty Free

TimeVallée, the luxury multi-brand watch boutique, recently opened its first Middle Eastern location within Doha International Airpot’s Duty-Free Section.

Founded in 2014 and headquartered in Switzerland, TimeVallée offers access to prestigious watch brands and creates an inviting space for watch lovers to experience the world of watchmaking. With over 34 boutiques worldwide, TimeVallée has embarked on an ambitious international expansion plan. The Qatar boutique is their first in our region.

Qatar Duty-Free, a subsidiary of Qatar Airways located within Doha’s Hamad International Airport, was named the World’s Best Airport by Skytrax in 2022. Occupying over 50,000 square meters, Qatar Duty-Free is home to over 130 retail outlets and some 40 Food & Beverage outlets.

Qatar Duty-Free, given its location within Doha Airpot, offers its retailers access to more than 70 million passengers annually. These figures are projected to grow significantly in the coming years, and the recent expansion project has increased retail space by over 15,000 square meters.

The TimeVallée boutique at Qatar Duty-Free opened with a ribbon-cutting ceremony for VIP guests, which included Qatar Airways Group’s CEO, Akbar Al Baker, Hamad International Airport’s COO, Badr Al Meer, Qatar DutyFree’s Vice President, Thabet Musleh, and TimeVallée CEO, Michael Guenoun.

Following the ribbon-cutting ceremony, Thabet Musleh said: “It is an honour to welcome the luxury watches boutique TimeVallée as an addition to our extensive retail portfolio at Qatar Duty Free. We are very proud to launch the first

TimeVallée boutique in the region; adding on to many other world-firsts and exclusives at Qatar Duty Free. We invite passengers to discover exquisite watches and jewellery from some of the world-renowned watchmaking brands in this unique new concept store.”

The two-story TimeVallée boutique showcases several Swiss luxury watchmakers, including Baume et Mercier, Bell and Ross, Cartier, Hublot, IWC, Jaeger LeCoultre, Panerai, Piaget, Roger Dubuis, and Tag Heuer. The brand’s outlets are designed to offer a seamless customer experience throughout all showcased watch brands. TimeVallée also offers a customer service section and a pre-owned watch lounge by Watchfinder.

Renowned for its sophisticated in-store design, the twostory TimeVallée boutique at Qatar Duty Free is designed to make an impression in line with the impressive airport terminal. The store features a 3D screen to showcase products from various maisons.

TimeVallée also offers an omnichannel customer journey and interactive experiences with a client-centric approach. Shoppers can visit the discovery counter to explore bestsellers, latest pieces, limited-edition collections, and maisonspecific collections using state-of-the-art digital technology.

“We are thrilled to open the latest TimeVallée boutique in partnership with Qatar Duty Free,” said Michael Guenoun, TimeVallée CEO. “We look forward to expanding in the region and providing a memorable experience for watch enthusiasts through our unique design, space, and customer service. We believe this will be an important addition to the luxury retail landscape in the Middle East.”

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Titanium case with integrated bracelet. Self-winding movement.