The luxury reporter magazine by The Luxury Reporter

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contents 6

Editorial Publisher/Managing Editor Funke Osae-Brown Staff Writers Lara Oladunni Beatrice Isola

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Luxury Travel

Top four cities to visit for Christmas

Restaurants

10 Restaurants of Christmas

Hotels

Have a luxurious stay at Ritz Carlton, Abu Dhabi

Style

The colours of Christmas

Creative Director Peter Ehigiator Web design Fortune Williams Advisory Board Mrs. Abimbola Wright Mr. Femi Adefowope Mrs. Mercy Omoyeni Mr. Ogbeni-Tope Awe Mr. Julianâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Luxury Mrs. Bola Balogun Mrs. Nkiru Olumide-Ojo Image Credit: South Africa 1: www.safari.co.za South Africa 2: www.oscar.caxtonmagsapps.co.za South Africa 3: www.mandelitatravel.com Dubai 1: www. mediastream.jumeirah.com Dubai 2: www.rideindubai.com Dubai 3: www.dubaimetro.eu Lagos 1: www.aboutlagos.com Lagos 2: www.lookingforgoodinlagos.blogspot.com Lagos 3: www.wantedinmilan.com Lagos 4: www.wakaabout.files.wordpress.com

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Features

Embroidered watches for Christmas

Interview

Don Jazzy: The music man

TLR is published by FTI Communications. D104, Omisore Lane, Oniru Millennium Estate, Lekki Website: www.luxuryreporter.com.ng Twitter: @luxuryreportng Facebook: The Luxury Reporter Advert hotlines: 08033540883, 08116759771, 08023165438

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Editor’s Note

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Welcome on board!

e are happy to present to you the maiden edition of the e-version of The Luxury Reporter (TLR). For us, it is a bold attempt to translate what we have been doing on our website (www.luxuryreporter. com.ng) to a downloadable sizeable e-magazine that is mobile-friendly. You can download and store it on your mobile devices--- phones, iPads, laptops etc. We hope to publish monthly. And so, we welcome you warmly to savour our nice Christmas package. In this special Christmas issue, our cover story looks at new designs of watches that are exploring the decorative potential of embroidered watch dials. They a re i n s p i re d b y extravagant lacework that have become the hallmarks of handcrafted limited-edition watches. Turn over the pages to read more about this new discovery in the history of watchmaking.

Famous music producer, Don Jazzy is on our personality interview page for this month. He speaks exclusively to TLR on his forthcoming Christmas concert. Read more about what makes this music man different. If you are planning a short vacation for Christmas, read our story ‘Top Four Cities to Visit for Christmas’. It highlights cities where you can have a memorable holiday with your loved ones. It isn’t too late to book! Google App also comes in handy for holiday makers this season. Why not have a memorable holiday with Google App? Thinking of what to wear for that special dinner this Yuletide? Then, the story ‘The Colours of Christmas’ is for you. We help you make a choice of what to wear for that special Christmas dinner. These and more stories are for your reading pleasure. Do have a pleasant Christmas. Happy Holidays! - FOB Follow me on: Instagram: funke_osae-brown Twitter: @funkeadetutu Facebook/LinkedIn: Funke Osae-Brown

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Luxury Travel

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Top four cities to visit for Christmas The holiday season is here again and you will need time to cool off the steam and pressure of work accumulated over the year. LARA OLADUNNI highlights four destinations to be this Yuletide.

Nairobi, Kenya

airobi is a bustling city that still offers the kind of tranquillity you desire for your Christmas holiday. It is a city that boasts of many tourist’s sites to visit this Christmas. While in Nairobi, you can visit the famous Great Rift Valley located on the Mai Mahiu/Naivasha Road to have a breathtaking view of this large expanse of land that runs 6000km across the Middle East and Africa from Jordan to Mozambique. The Rift Valley stretches round one-sixth of the Earth’s circumference. Along its lengths are volcanoes that are now mostly dormant. One of the rarest animals found here is the Rhino. Thereafter, you can also visit the smallest church in East Africa situated on the same Mai Mahiu/ Naivasha Road as the Rift Valley. It is a little catholic church built in 1942 by Italian Prisoners Of War (POW) under the strict supervision of British colonialists. It seats 12 people at once. The Kiambethu Tea farm is an interesting place to see in Nairobi. Located in Limuru, it offers a relaxed atmosphere to interact with nature. The tours around the farm starts off at 11:00 am from the main house. Fiona, the farm owner will welcome you with some homemade biscuits and tea. She will take you through an interesting session on how the tea is made. And of course, a visit to the Karura Waterfall will take your breath away. It is a great way to connect with nature through the lapping sound of the waterfall that can be heard distance away

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as you journey through the Karura forest. The spectacular 50 feet waterfall cascade down slimy rocks settling into gentle flow of the river below. Finally, the famous Nairobi National Park is a must-see. Nestled in the city of Nairobi, the park is the only wild life park located in the city in the world. A short drive out of Nairobi’s central business district, the Nairobi National Park offers you a rare opportunity to see animals like Lion, Giraffe, Rhino, Elephants, and birds like Peacocks in their natural environment. How to get there: Kenya Airways operates two flights, afternoon and evening from Lagos to Nairobi, Kenya. For a complete travel package contact: Denis Mailu | Leisure Consultant, Kenya Phone +254 20 712 1235 | Mobile +254 701 891 578 Tours Emergency +254 715 868 984 | Transport Emergency +254 738 772 272 denismailu@carlsonwagonlit.co.ke | www. carlsonwagonlit.co.ke | www.bunsontravel.com

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Luxury Travel

Dubai, United Arab Emirates

raveling to Dubai will definitely change your perception of Middle East. While in Dubai, you can travel by a 4x4 Land Rover across the deserts of Dubai. You will enjoy having an adrenaline rush sandboarding down Dubai’s desert dunes, take a camel ride and get a henna tattoo. Complete your experience with a delicious barbecue dinner under the twinkling Arabian stars while watching a traditional tanoura dance performance. This is a must-do experience when visiting Dubai. Also, go sightseeing with an entrance ticket to Burj Khalifa’s to be at the top of one of the world’s tallest observation decks, located on the skyscraper’s 124th floor. After entering through Dubai Mall, enjoy a multi-media presentation about Dubai’s history, and then zoom up to the observation deck by high-speed elevator to enjoy free time ogling the views. You must also see the Palm Jumeirah, Dubai Marina, and the Burj Al Arab. Getting on a city bus tour will give you unrivalled view of a city that never sleeps it’s as if the city was built to be seen from this vantage point. You will have a great time going on a city sightseeing tour by air-conditioned coach, seeing top Dubai attractions like the Burj Al Arab hotel and

Lagos, Nigeria

agos is truly an amazing place to visit if you have a good understanding of how to get around. Divided into two parts, Lagos Mainland and Lagos Island, you can have a good taste of Lagos bustling day and night life. The Lagos Mainland is a potpourri of classes. It is largely inhabited by those in the lower, middle and upper classes. The Lagos Island on the other hand, is very highbrow. This area is largely inhabited by the upper class and a bit of the middle class. It is very posh in every sense of the word. You can easily get around till late in the night without fear of being robbed. Also, Lagos Island offers some of the best scenes with its great landscape, architectural designs, the Lagoon and beaches. This is where you have the head offices of most banks. It is the commercial nerve centre of the city.

Al Fahidi Fort. Then head into the Arabian Desert on a 4x4 safari to visit a camel farm, try sandboarding, and enjoy a sunset barbeque meal with live music and dancing. How to get there: Emirates Airlines fky directly to Dubai. For a complete tour package contact: Bolaji Mustapha Grand Express Tour Centre Ltd (GETCENTRE) Address: 4, Salvation Road, Opebi Ikeja Tel: +23412916333, 0700GETCENTRE. Mobile: +234 8023018948 Email: bolaji@getcentre. Website: www.getcentre.com There are many international hotel brands like Radisson Blu, Intercontinental, Southern Sun, Fourpoint by Sheraton, Sheraton, and Protea Hotels. There are other indigenous brands like Eko Hotel & Suites, La Cour, Oriental, The Cocoon amongst others. Located on Ozumba Mbadiwe Road, Victoria Island, Radisson Blu Hotel is a five star hotel that offers you a good view of the Lagos Lagoon. You have a choice to choose from its170 rooms and suites. All the rooms come with free high-speed, wireless Internet. You will also have access to the jetty from the hotel’s bar. You can have a good meal in the stylish restaurants by the Lagoon. The hotel also has an on-site fitness centre, a wellness area with an outdoor pool, two saunas and flexible event rooms. The average nightly rate starts from $358. The Luxury Reporter www.luxuryreporter.com.ng

Luxury Travel

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Lagos boasts of all kinds of restaurants. From the local ‘Mama Put’ joint (where you can have a taste of the local delicacy in a very traditional setting) to Italian, French, Chinese and seafood restaurants like Coral Blue. If you what to have a taste of the local cuisine in a safe and great environment with the right ambience, Terra Kulture located on Tiamiyu Savage Street, Victoria Island is the place to be. Rodizzo Restaurant, The Place both located on Isaac John Street, Ikeja and Yellow Chili on Joel Ogunaike Street, Ikeja GRA are place to hang out on the Mainland. Rodizzo and The Place offer all kinds of English cuisine including some traditional foods. Yellow Chili has tasty local cuisines which cut across the country’s six geo-political zones. You can have a taste of Eba (cassava pudding) with Banga or ogbono soup, you may also want to try pounded yam (Yam paste) with any good soup. With N5, 000 ($32), you can have a good meal at any of these restaurants. Barcelos and KFC are also available on Isaac John Street, Ikeja for if you prefer finger foods. There are local brands of fast food joints like Sweet Sensation on the same street. If you are staying on the Mainland, Ikeja City Mall, located at Alausa, it affords you the opportunity to do your shopping under one roof. There are shops like Mr Price, Truworth, Ruff ‘n’ Tumble for children clothings, Glendora Book store, for books. There is a cinema, Silverbird Cinema, on the first floor where you can watch late night movies. Also there are restaurants and fast food joints like KFC. On Lagos Island on the other hand, you can shop at The Palms Shopping Mall, Lekki.

Johannesburg, South Africa

ohannesburg is a beautiful city to visit for Christmas. A visit to the famous Apartheid Museum is, simply brilliant. It will take you on a visual journey of what the blacks went through during apartheid. From the entrance, you will be given a racial category that determines which entrance you use, to the thoughtful displays and fascinating memorabilia this is an excellent way to either begin to understand or to deepen your knowledge of South Africa’s apartheid era. 8

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It also has Genesis Deluxe Cinema on its first floor. You can have a relaxing moment on the beach or go for a theatre show at Terra Kulture. You may prefer to view paintings and sculptures at Red Door Art gallery on Bishop Oluwole Street, Victoria Island. You will have a memorable time visiting the Lekki Conservation Centre located on the Lekki/Epe Expressway where you will have a great time communing with nature. Thereafter you can take a long drive to the Epe fish market in Epe, a sleepy town in the outskirt of the city of Lagos. Visiting the Badagry Slave museum is not a bad idea either as you will the unique opportunity to interact with the unspoilt slave relics. For a complete Tour package contact: Pelu Awofeso Waka About Travel Tel: 08039732757, 08175909300 Email: peluawofeso@yahoo.com It is easy to spend hours here, so try to allow enough time to not have to rush. The entrance fee for adults is approximately R70 and the museum is open 7 days a week. The museum is easy to get to by car or taxi and the red hop on-hop off tourist bus also has a stop at the museum. The Apartheid Museum tells a story of the triumph of the human of the human spirit over adversity and oppression. The museum has been conceptualised by a multi-disciplinary Read Full Story on: www.luxuryreporter.com.ng

Luxury Travel

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Have a memorable holiday with Google App FUNKE OSAE-BROWN

f you are planning to travel for Christmas or you prefer to spend the holiday with your loved ones at any location, whatever your decision is, you can make the most of your holiday with the Google App.

Recently, Paul Solomon, Google PR manager, Africa and Middle East, was with a team of journalists (print and electronic) and bloggers from different countries in Africa to Nairobi, Kenya to have a first-hand experience of how to put the Google App to test. Tagged #GoogleinNairobi the two-day holiday took journalists around top tourists’ sites in Nairobi. Solomon says the idea for the event came when the Google team met in Nairobi about a year and a half ago. “The concept is six months in the making,” he explains. “There are about half a billion internet users in the world. We want to see how our products can make life easier and richer. We want to show how Google App can enhance

travel experience, give consumers the information they need before they ask for it, navigate areas with the apps, taking and sharing photos and using Google translates among other apps.” From experience, the Google App is the perfect travel assistant anyone could ask for. You can easily have Google App installed on both Android of iPhone. This can help you manage and plan your travel. It will also give the right information at the right time. The Google Voice Search will come in handy whenever you need any information about anything. “The Voice Search allows you ask questions and get answers in natural language, which is perfect for travelling. With the Voice Search, you don’t have to struggle to type while running to catch your plane or squint your eyes while trying to read from your phone in the sun, just say: ‘Okay Google or tap the microphone icon to begin. Read Full Story on: www.luxuryreporter.com.ng The Luxury Reporter www.luxuryreporter.com.ng

Restaurants

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Jevinik Jevinik located at 14B, Agoro Odiyan Street, Off Adeola Odeku, Victoria Island, Lagos offers local and continental cuisines at affordable prices.

Restaurants of Christmas

Good food and drinks are the hallmarks of the season. BEATRICE ISOLA puts together twelve restaurants where you can have a memorable Christmas. Yellow Chilli Yellow Chilli is a cool and classy restaurant located in a serene area of Victoria Island. The restaurant offers a range of Nigerian and continental dishes. Yellow Chilli also has a bar. 27 Oju Olobun Close off Bishop Oluwole Street, Victoria Island

for a big meal with all the works, that keeps on coming then you have to give them a try. Rodizzio is a grill and g auch o BBQ rest au r ant located at 29 Isaac John Street, Ikeja GRA. It offers all you can eat meat and salad bar for one price. They have house rules, one of which is that forks and knives are optional! Every night of the week they have something going on, so eat, drink and be merry.

Rodizzio The new kid on the block, Rodizzio, is no ordinary restaurant. If youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re looking 10 The Luxury Reporter www.luxuryreporter.com.ng

Voyage Restaurant, Radisson Blu Voyage Restaurant is an allday restaurant at Radisson Blu, Lagos which features an international buffet with an abundant array of Nigerian and continental dishes, along with an Ă la carte menu of signature dishes from Europe and the local region. Voyage Restaurant seats up to 65 guests and overlooks the beautiful lagoon. This restaurant in Lagos also connects to the terrace, which is an ideal backdrop for small parties and wedding receptions for up to 24 guests. Opening hours is 06:00 - 23:00 daily.

Restaurants

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Terra Kulture At Terra Kulture on Victoria Island, you can have a taste of the very best of African cuisine. It is located on Ti a m i y u S a v a g e S t re e t , Victoria Island, Lagos.

Wakkis Wakkis is a free standing purpose built restaurant that offers great and memorable dining experience. It is located in the heart of Abuja, Plot 171 Aminu Kano Crescent, Wuse 2, Abuja. Nigeria. With carefully selected oriental dishes, seasoned chefs, and professional staff complement each other in making a visit to Wakkis worth the while.

Off Adeola Odeku St, Victoria Island, Lagos, it is opened from Monday to Sunday. Expect to pay around N1000 for a sandwhich (Mozzarella, Steak, Smoked Salmon etc) around N1200 for a burger). They do take-away and deliveries.

Marcopolo is has a strong speciality in seafood with Croaker, Prawns, Lobster, Crab and Squid all on offer in various forms. Located at 9 Karimu Kotun Street Victoria Island, Lagos, the interior is sleek, well-lit and inviting. Expect to pay around N3000 per head not including drinks. It is opened Monday to Friday from 9.30am to 5.30pm. Tel: +234012700248, +2344448938. Email: info@ marcopolo.com.ng

Salamander Café This is one of the best restaurants in Abuja. Although, it is named as a café but Slamander offers interesting array of dishes that will make you go back again and again, It offers healthy and unique breakfast and lunch Monday through the weekend. Located in Wuse II, Abuja, Salamander Café is a favourite of the expatriate community and a lot of the cultured Abuja crowd offering great food, fabulous ambiance and fantastic services. 72 Aminu Kano Crescent, Wuse 2, Abuja Tel: +234 (0) 702 785 0932, +234 (0)9 7084518

Piccolo Mondo

Marcopolo Restaurant

Tanjia Tanjia is a Moroccan restaurant situated at 54 Raymond Njoku St, Off Awolowo Road, SW Ikoyi, Lagos. The interior is gorgeous, a real North African experience. You can be secluded in a room for a special tea and cake, or sit near the front for more formal dining. Upstairs is a private members club. It is opened Monday to Sunday from12pm to 11pm.

Piccolo Mondo is an Italian restaurant specialises in upscale Italian style sandwiches and burgers. The ambience is clean and bright, with good service. Upstairs is a lounge/bar area. Situated at 19B, Plot 975, Idejo Street, The Luxury Reporter www.luxuryreporter.com.ng

Hotels

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Have a luxurious stay at Ritz Carlton, Abu Dhabi LARA OLADUNI

he Ritz Carlton hotel located, at the Grand Canal, Khor Al Maqtaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;a, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates is truly grand in every sense of the word. From t h e l a rg e i m p o s i n g building to the expansive lobby, it boasts of world class luxury. It is the best place to escape and experience the luxury of an Arabian resort, a place where European elegance blends with Middle Eastern tradition. The hotel is well laid out in a beautifully landscaped gardens, gurgling fountains and Venetianinspired buildings. The Ritz-Carlton Abu Dhabi, gives a luxury beach resort experience minutes away from the city centre. You can experience the Bedouin-

inspired spa or have a taste of the exquisite dinner experience at the restaurants. Ritz Carlton features elegant accommodations including guest rooms, suite and private villas. The guest rooms allows you access to breathtaking views of the pool, beach or gardens depending on which part

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of the building you are staying. The rooms also comes with a 300-threadcount linens featuring Ritz Carlton signature acanthus leaf motif and spacious wardrobe. For the bathroom, there is a Marble bath with Asprey amenities for your pleasure. There is also separate shower, separate WC, double vanities, shaving/make-up mirror and hair dryer including plush terry robes, towels and slippers. If you want to stay in touch with whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s going on at work or you just want to connect with friends online, there is high-speed wired and wireless Internet access. With the 42-inch LCD TV with local and international channels you are sure to stay tuned to different TV programmes. There is a fully stocked honour bar and 24-hour in-room dining. There is a safety deposit box where you can store your valuables. In addition to twicedaily housekeeping attention, there is iron and ironing board plus laundry and valet services. You can enjoy shoe-shine service while there is complimentary local newspaper for you to be up to date with what is happening in the city. There is a choice of smoking and nonsmoking rooms. Read Full Story on: www.luxuryreporter.com.ng

Style

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The colours of Christmas For centuries, red and green have been the traditional colours of Christmas. These colours are always there year-on-year. Here are our few picks of fashion items you can wear to make your Christmas glam says BEATRICE ISOLA Aquazzura Matilde lace-up suede pumps This Aquazzura’s Italian-made suede pumps will be a daring addition to your footwear repertoire. A fiery red pair, it has a classic pointed toe, high stiletto heel, and ankle ties for a secure fit. You can wear them with a tonal clutch and black dress for a nice Christmas evening outing.

Christian Louboutin Rougissime python and leather clutch This cute Christian Louboutin’s ‘Rougissime’ clutch is crafted in Italy from red python and smooth leather. It is very spacious compared with your normal clutch bag. It is design with two internal compartments and a pullout mirror for touching up your lipstick and powder. You can attach the shoulder strap to keep your hands free when the need arises.

Victoria Beckham Stretch-knit dress With this emerald knit dress, Victoria Beckham delivers a striking alternative to the typical little black dress. Cut from a figure-flattering stretch-knit, its unique style will accentuates an hourglass silhouette. It is finely lined with smooth silk. You can adjust the two-way zipper at the back to create a split, to make your look truly different this season. The Luxury Reporter www.luxuryreporter.com.ng

Style

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Victoria Beckham Croc-effect leather clutch Have a memorable Christmas look with Victoria Beckham’s clutch made from smooth green leather and glossy croc-effect leather. Lined with durable taupe canvas, the surprisingly spacious interior has two compartments for keeping your essentials neatly organized. Carry it to add a splash of colour to day or night outfits this season.

Jimmy Choo Darylin suede and patent-leather pumps

Victoria Beckham Stretch-knit dress With this emerald knit dress, Victoria Beckham delivers a striking alternative to the typical little black dress. Cut from a figureflattering stretchknit, its unique style will accentuates an hourglass silhouette. It is finely lined with smooth silk. You can adjust the two-way zipper at the back to create a split, to make your look truly different this season. 14 The Luxury Reporter www.luxuryreporter.com.ng

Famous designer Jimmy Choo makes a bold statement with this made in Italy patent leather pumps. Designed with a suede front and patent-leather back, these ‘Darylin’ pumps marry style and practicality. The cutaway d’Orsay silhouette will definitely flatter your feet, while cushioned insoles and a specially designed heel shape ensure comfort on the longest days. Wear this bright-green pair with everything from party dresses to boyfriend jeans.

Chloe Darcey gold-tone Swarovski pearl cuff You will surely love this versatile Chloe’s ‘Darcey’ cuff. It demonstrates the Chloe’s clean aesthetic. Made in Italy, it’s made from polished gold-tone brass and embellished with two Swarovski pearls. It is a beautiful compliment to your looks this Yelutide.

Style

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Arme De L’Amour 3 Sphere silver cuff Arme De L’Amour’s cuff is cast from solid polished silver using simple geometric shapes for a clean, timeless feel. Because of its minimalist design, you’ll find this slim style works well on its own or worn stacked with similar pieces. Why not make your wrist do the talking this holiday?

Maison Margiela Rhodium-plated, faux pearl and cubic zirconia ring Maison Margiela’s rhodium-plated brass ring makes a stunning gift to show appreciation, friendship or congratulations this holiday. This elegant design is set with one fauxpearl and one sparkling cubic zirconia on either side for two different styling options.

Larsson & Jennings Liten small gold-plated watch

L’Artisan Parfumeur Séville à l’Aube Wear this perfume that has an addition of lavender in a sultry orange-blossom composition. In this dark, luscious context, lavender reveals its dramatic side, and adds a dose of shimmer to the composition. It is a unique way to wear that Christmas smell.

With this watch, Larsson & Jennings’ aesthetic combines traditional British design with Swedish minimalism. Crafted with a 33mm white face, this Swiss-made gold-plated ‘Liten’ watch is smart and timeless. It’s waterresistant up to 50m and has a precise Ronda 762 Quartz movement. The Luxury Reporter www.luxuryreporter.com.ng

Features

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embroidered watches

for Christmas New designs of watches are exploring the decorative potential of embroidered watch dials. They are inspired by extravagant lacework that have become the hallmarks of handcrafted limited-edition trimmings writes FUNKE OSAE-BROWN.

molola loves to stand out of the crowd hence she always go for unique timepieces. For her, the kind of watch that adorns her wrist impact great on how she is perceived by business associates. And so, the last time she visited Harrods in London, she shopped for rare timepieces with embroidered bracelets. “I love to be a show stopper in a subtle way,” she tells me. “Hence I go for unique wristwatches that make a difference to my appearance. I don’t want to appear too loud when I go for business meetings hence I prefer watches with embroidered bracelets. They are conservative yet exceptional.” From dials in bloom to faces with swelling waves of colour, the originality and craftsmanship of watch enamellers and painters are usually astonishing to view. For centuries, paint, enamel and jewelled embellishment are traditional horological enhancements. However, a single decorative element that has not appeared on the dial until recent times, is the embroidery. J u s t t w o y e a r s a g o , f o re m o s t watchmaker, Piaget changed the

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aesthetic possibilities of embroidery by signing up award winning and well skilled French embroiderer, Sylvie Deschamps. Piaget’s Altiplano watch comes in limited editions of just two designs. The very precious watch is meticulously handcrafted personally by Deschamps who used painting embroidery technique that involved the use of many tiny stitches on a silk canvas. It took her about 40 hours to complete.

Features

is N7, 169, 416.14 (£23,700), while the one with a black face and silver thread is N7, 412, 347.62 (£24,500) 18 pieces were made of each, both still available. So charmed is Piaget by the results that more new watches with embroidered dials are planned. T h e Altiplano’s i n t r i c a t e version comes in limited edition of three, all sold out at N8, 622, 696.89 (£28,500) each. The watch comes with an emblem by the brand, the rose. Coming in various attractive shades of pink, each petal is designed with contours highlighted with silver filet thread that give grander depth. The rose blooms placed over seven-eighths of the black dial, are encircled with small diamonds. “For every piece that I create I want to bring something new to it,” Deschamps told www. horologium. com.au, in an interview, “but using existing techniques. So with Piaget, new for watches, new for dials, but the technique is already known. The technique depends on the pattern of course. Piaget can come up with an idea and I will advise as to whether it will work.” According to a report by FT’s How To Spend It, the other, less flamboyant design features a small decorative laurel branch lying on one side of the dial. This time Deschamps uses a different technique, first drawing the motif on a tracing sheet, then piercing it to outline the contours of the branch, followed by sprinkling powder to make the design appear on the silk – only then does the embroidery work begin. The version with a white face, gold thread and encirclement of diamonds

Deschamps said further in the online interview that she never thought that one day her embroidery would be on a watch. Ironically, she doesn’t normally wear a watch yet she worked on the Piaget pieces using pointilism because she takes a lot of inspiration from art. “I wanted to test that approach. The challenge was to have a final result that was visually appealing. Technically what is difficult is to be able to get small knots that are regular and as perfectly similar one to another as possible. When Piaget starts working on a project they first come up with an idea. “The first piece in any collaboration is a bit more challenging, but after some time both sides get more experience working with each other and about how to achieve something together. The design comes from Piaget and I bring my input and expertise into the idea. I saw some Piaget roses made of cloisonné, liked them, thought it might be interesting to have a silvered/ gold outline and then saw how this could translate to embroidery. Some technical points turned out to be impossible, so we made had to make changes, she said further in The Luxury Reporter www.luxuryreporter.com.ng

Features

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the interview with horologium.com.au. Other interesting bespoke piece is the Hublot’s embroidered watch that pays homage to the renowned needlework of Swiss grandmothers. Hublot took the iconic Big Bang sports watch while Bischoff, a Swiss lingerie and lace maker, came up with exquisite pieces. While working with Bischoff, Hublot created a skull pattern, which he modified and embellished on tulle, before it was layered and encased in carbon fibre to become part of the dial and bezel. The watch comes in three versions. The first is inspired by a black thread and black diamonds N4, 294, 526.28 (£14,200), silver thread and white diamonds N4, 053, 154.17 (£13,400) and gold thread and white diamonds N8, 135, 378.66 (£26,900). Launched in January 2015, each comes in limited edition of 200. These exquisite pieces will be nice gifts to give this Christmas or you can just acquire one as a special gift for yourself this season. In addition to Piaget and Hublot, Chanel also started adding stitched thread to its dials in 2013, with its most iconic motif, the camellia using the skills of renowned embroidery house Maison Lesage. Chanel used coloured silk 18 The Luxury Reporter www.luxuryreporter.com.ng

threads to make a flower that appears to blossom from the centre of the dial of the Mademoiselle Privé Lesage watch which was sold at N16, 029, 919.85 (£53,000) in a limited edition of 18, from which one is still accessible). Later, Chanel introduced came another two charming made to order designs (prices from N7, 185, 131.97 (£23,750)) with diverse distinctions on the camellia theme using silk thread covered with gold, and yellow and white 18ct gold sequins. An expert in watches in Nigeria says other luxury brands are introducing embroidery into watch making to introduce a new form artistry. “This is to make watches more exclusive and desirable to collectors, art, horology and watch making generally. All of them work hand in hand. Usually piece like these may take a year or more to develop,” he says. Even as the bug of embroidered watches is catching

DON

JAZZY THE MUSIC MAN

The name DON JAZZY is an iconic brand when it comes to music in Nigeria. In this interview, the music producer tells FUNKE OSAE-BROWN about his upcoming concert and what makes his music.

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Interview

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ur meeting that hot Wednesday afternoon at the Intercontinental Hotel, Lagos was not a chanced one. Mavin Records and Access Bank had called a meeting for media men. Seated among his colleagues at Mavin Records, is the don himself, Don Jazzy. He was every bit himself, humble, no air of arrogance at all. He was at home with everyone present. He looks quite older than his age as I interviewed him that afternoon. He is 33 years old. Christened, Michael Collins Ajereh, his stage name Don Jazzy has really stuck to him, very few people know or address him by his real name. His foray into music started when he was a choir member at the popular Cherubim and Seraphim Church as a young boy. At the time, he never knew he would become a big time music producer in Nigeria growing up in Ajegunle, a suburb of Lagos cosmopolitan city. As an award winning record producer, singer-songwriter, musician, former CEO of Mo’ Hits Records and current CEO of Mavin Records, Don Jazzy has recorded many successes in the Nigerian music industry. He has become a sought-after music producer. It is, therefore, not a surprise when he announced Mavin Records partnership with Access Bank to hold the AccessMavin Concert for Christmas on December 23th at Eko Boulevard at Eko Atlantic Lagos. “It is a first of its kind,” he tells me. “It took us a long time to put together. I intend to do a show like no other. We all worked very hard over the years to think of something that will be mindblowing not just the regular going to Eko Hotel sit on a seat. I need you to understand that it is not a banquet or reception dinner we coming to turn up. I was on YouTube some time ago, I was watching concerts around the world and people went to listen to music. They danced and not to just sit down to listen to music. That is what we want to replicate with this concert.” Initially, Don Jazzy and his team 20 The Luxury Reporter www.luxuryreporter.com.ng

decided to make it a free concert but they had a change of plan last minute for security reasons. “We decided to put the price free to nothing, N499 which is affordable to get in. I don’t know a concert in the last five years that charged that gate fee. We decided to put the 500 naira price tag to it. For people who have supported me over the years, it is my way of saying thank you.” Don Jazzy is brand that is loved by all and sundry. This humble man who grew up in Ajegunle says it wasn’t easy for him to build his name into a brand. “I have had God by my side, a beautiful team and I think I have had the best team in this industry. We are like family everybody is just having a time of his life. With God by your side; you work hard and you have a beautiful team; there is nothing you can’t do. I am also a leader that just don’t want to throw out chores or make everybody do things he says they should do. I listen to everybody, if you like be a gateman. If you say this and I tell you this is what I think we should do. In the end, we all debate what we will do.” One cannot dispute the fact that Don

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Jazzy eats, drinks, lives and breathes music. He is a man who understands the art of music. He is a master at knowing what beats to mix that will lead to a sellable music to his fans. He is man who lives the kind of music he sells. And he loves to promote his artistes and not himself. “I am not anybody. I am trying to sell different products to you, so if I am in the fore front stealing all the shine there is no point. You won’t see the product I am trying to sell to you. For example, if I am a baker, I am selling bread you are not coming to the shop to buy the baker. You are coming to buy the bread that is what I am selling. Most times, I just be like to be in the background. I know if I should come out there the media will want to talk to me. I know they will leave my people and focus on me.” For Don Jazzy, music is like a spirit. He senses it within which one will be a hit and which one will not. This is what guides him in making a choice of artistes he works with. “I kind of know a good spirit when I encounter one. When I want to make my music I consider that. I make music because I feel it suits you, your person. I sit with my people in the studio and I can tell the kind of music that will be a hit. I study and know how to read spirit. I think that is all about it, if my spirit and your spirit gel, fine; and if not there is no point in starting what we can’t finish.” He tells me his family, fans, team drive him as an individual. Those are the people he lives for. “A very good team have supported me. I am a strong believer. Once there is life, I come out today and produce music. I have done tracks that people didn’t like. I have life. I have my artists and I got my studio. I produce music every day. If I make a

Interview music you don’t like it, I go back to the studio and produce another one and bring it out. It does not cost me anything to produce music since I own my facilities and own my company. What I just do is go to the studio and work.” For this lover of highlife music, the beat or lyrics may not necessarily make the song. “It depends on the kind of song. There are songs that don’t necessarily need beat. In that case, it is the person’s lyrics that will make the song or vocal but it depends on the kind of song, really. For instance, the kind of song Timi Dakolo does, it is good music. But it has to do with the vocals. But if you are looking at a music that will turn up in the club then that is about beat.” A shy man most times, Don Jazzy wears his sunglasses to conceal his shyness. So when next you see him with sunglasses on stage, just know he may just be nervous.

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Book Review Title: Born on Tuesday Author: Elnathan John Pages: Publisher: Cassava Republic ‘Born on a Tuesday’ tells the beguiling story of a young almajari boy, Dantala, who runs away from home and takes up residence in a mosque. Dantala slowly embraces the Salafism preached by his new benefactor, and becomes i n c re a s i n g l y i n v o l v e d i n the extremist politics of the northwest. It is a stunning read, told from the deceptively simple perspective of the young boy. It is a unique and refreshing tale, which provides a fascinating perspective on life in the northwest of Nigeria, giving voice to an often disregarded aspect of Nigerian society.

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Title: Memories of Grandma Author: Funke Treasure Durodola Pages: 140 pages Publisher: INDN Books

Title: ‘Divinity in Humanity’ Author: Dayo Lomuwagun Publisher: Angulus Books Reviewer: Funke Osae-Brown Pages: 139

‘Memories o f Grandma chronicles F u n k e Tr e a s u r e Durodola’s experience visiting her grandma as a young girl. She

The literature on motivational speaking is swelling in rank at the turn of the century. So many books have been written on the concept of self-discovery and living a purpose driven life. But Dayo Lomuwagun in his new book, ‘Divinity in Humanity’ takes a new view to issues around selfdiscovery. He strikes the core of human existence, divinity.

graphically p a i n t s w i t h w o rd s h e r sojourn in Ode Omu during the holidays. ‘Memories of Grandma’ is a good novel for young people who have never been in touch with village life. It is a good way for parents to reconnect their children with the unspoilt village life.

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Divided into three parts, the book’s thematic preoccupation dwells on the place of divinity in self-discovery and fulfilling life’s purpose. Chapter by chapter, Lomuwagun treats salient issues that serve as roadmaps to discovering oneself.

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