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Jan Van Eyck personal motto, one of the first and still most special signatures in art history, "ALS IK KAN" meaning "As well as I can" stating this is the best he could do. The painter used to sign his frames with this motto and considered them as part of his work. A name that symbolizes a blend of art and jewelry, a name that has a Belgian heritage and legacy.
www.vaneyck-jewelry.com
Contents 10 15
First Word Invitations The latest member events
Investment
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34 Shopping for Residency Buying a property abroad can get you more than bricks and mortar 44 L earning Curve Three opportunities to invest in the education sector
R AISE YOUR GAME How meditation can pay dividends in business
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52 K now Your Stones Why it can pay to buy your diamonds online 56 M emory Lane How to make money from memorabilia 60 F und Focus The newly launched Silverton Real Estate Fund
Insiders 64
en Minutes with... Tony Cheng The Hong Kong T restaurant mogul on his latest venture Charging Ahead Elon Musk’s electric empire is expanding in Asia
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M ATERIAL WORLDS Design leaders share their style secrets
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aking an Impression Corporate lawyer-turnedM curator Douglas So F or Goodness Sake The Good Rock Foundation Liu Shilai The Chinese polo star on bringing the game to Asia Brew Masters The world’s most expensive coffee Just Watch Me Watchmakers Grieb & Benzinger on creating bespoke timepieces
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uilding Blahnik Manolo’s niece discusses her B recent work for the shoe guru
Inspiration 106 D efying Gravity Experience the thrill of weightlessness with Zero G 110 Can you Keep a Secret? The ultimate smartphone unveiled 116 CHOOSE YOUR MOMENT The best
timepieces from Watches & Wonders
124 The Hot Ten This season’s most covetable consumables 138 The Fast Lane Our new motoring columnist ponders cars for continental drives 146 Ultimate Swimming Pools When only the best pool will do 156 Shopping Weekender Our regular shopping guide hits Seoul
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End Note 160 L ast Word Errol Fuller on investing in natural history pieces
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CH ARGING AHEAD
INVESTMENT INVESTMENT
Mid-century furniture, Global property shopping for precious diamonds residencymetals, and why meditating and the rewards of investing makes for better business in start-ups
INSIDERS INSIDERS
Fashion fromonindustry Kristina tips Blahnik the insiders, HongofKong’s hottest architecture shoes and Liu Shilai foodies and an exclusive with on bringing polo to China Gisele Bündchen
INSPIRATION INSPIRATION
Holidays in space, Previewing luxury underwater timepieces plus hotel suites, shopping in Paris an exceptional new smartphone and this Spring’s coolest to rival all the rest consumables
COVER IMAGE: Elon Musk, Tesla Motors CEO
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First Word It’s easy to run out of superlatives for our cover star Elon Musk. After all, here is a self-made billionaire whose fortune has tripled in the last year alone, driven by Tesla, the electric car company he founded back in 2003. In our feature, Charging Ahead on page 66, we uncover Musk’s expansion plans for China, the world’s largest vehicle market, renowned for its smog and pollution woes, and find out why 3,000 Hong Kongers are already on the waiting list for the new Model S. Should you be next?
Dominique Afacan, Editor-at-Large dominique@infonation-asia.com
Contributors
Liana Cafolla
Loren Cotter
Nan-Hie In
Sophie Kalkreuth
Liana has been a Hong Kongbased freelance journalist for over 10 years. She writes for publications including The Peak magazine, South China Morning Post and also covers the Hong Kong diamond market for Rapaport magazine. For The Reserve she investigates buying diamonds online; find her story on page 52.
Loren is the deputy culture editor at JoongAng Daily, a national Korean newspaper. When she’s not exploring the city’s shops you can find her eating her way through its restaurants or reporting on the sub-cultural scene for her events blog chincha.co.uk. Read her shopping guide to Seoul on page 156.
Nan-Hie In is a freelance journalist based in Hong Kong, writing for the South China Morning Post, CNN Business Traveller, Prestige and Asia Gambling Brief. She is also on the board of governors at the Foreign Correspondents’ Club, Hong Kong. Read her interview with Chinese polo star Liu Shilai on page 84.
Sophie has lived in Germany, Canada, Brazil and China and currently resides in New York City, where she keeps an eye on the latest global trends for Luxury Properties magazine, The Peak, Form, Golf Vacations and others. For this issue she uncovers property finds in Sotogrande and Bulgaria – starting on page 38.
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The Reserve is a VIP club exclusively for Asia’s most discerning consumers and investors. Produced in Hong Kong and China by INFO/NATION. CEO
Shawn Hiltz shawn@infonation-asia.com
Editor-at-Large
Dominique Afacan dominique@infonation-asia.com
Sub-Editor
Sophie Forsyth sophie@infonation-asia.com
Art Direction
Wilson Au Yeung wilson@infonation-asia.com
Marketing
Zoe Belhomme zoe@infonation-asia.com
Events
Sonya Yeung events@infonation-asia.com
For advertising and sponsorship queries please contact: Luxury & Lifestyle
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For membership enquiries please contact: Member Services
Lowell Kwok member@thereserve-asia.com
The Reserve Hong Kong is published under license from INFO/NATION. All rights reserved. Title and trademark registered. No part of this publication may be reproduced in any form without the written consent of the publisher. The views and opinions expressed or implied in The Reserve are those of contributors and advertisers and do not neccessarily reflect those of the publisher.
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Let the Journey Begin
Rediscover the joy of prepping for adventure. Beautifully-crafted on the outside, meticulouslyappointed on the inside, Ebby Rane brings style back to travel, and is as poised and self-assured as you are. Each Quartermaster includes the 1887 leather clutch and 10 exquisite carryalls. Whether you sleep on red-eyes or in staterooms, Ebby Rane keeps you in control, door to door.
C A B I N- S I Z E D LU G GAG E FO R S O P H I ST I C AT E D T R AV E L L E R S
E B BY R A N E .C O M
CHRISTMAS CONCIERGE The festive period is always a busy time for our members, so this year allow The Reserve’s Christmas Concierge service help you to secure the season’s most sought-after luxury gifts. From tech and timepieces to cars and couture, we will source the perfect presents for your loved ones, in many cases with unique benefits and discounts that are available exclusively for members of The Reserve. To find out more about our personal shopping service, contact us at member@thereserve-asia.com
Invitations LATEST EVENTS FOR MEMBERS OF THE RESERVE
Didn’t receive your invitation? It could be because you haven’t shared your passions yet. Be sure to fill out a membership form to let us know what interests you most and we’ll send you invitations to match. thereserve-asia.com/requestmembership
INVITATIONS Member News
MEMBER NEWS
IN BRIEF What a sizzling summer it’s been. From beginning to end the season has been a marathon of events and experiences tailored specifically around your interests and passions. From a glamorous evening applauding the best of British luxury through to private investment seminars with leading industry experts, The Reserve is designed to provide you with tailored member benefits that matter to you. The weather may be cooling down but our events are undoubtedly not with a chock-a-block autumn ahead. First up in Hong Kong in October is the next instalment of our popular Property Investment Exhibition & Seminar (PIE+S), promising to deliver the very best investment opportunities alongside a selection of luxury lifestyle brands. Soon after, selected members will be invited to learn about the luxury cruise ship, The World, to understand what it’s like to live aboard travelling from country to country throughout the year. Just before Christmas we’ll also be hosting our annual Gentlemen’s Evening where top men’s fashion, technology and libations will take centre stage. Want to receive an invitation? Simply let our membership team know by emailing: member@thereserve-asia.com Behind the scenes, The Reserve has been busy creating a new section of the website called Reserve Me, designed to give you direct access to selected brands, experiences, services and investment opportunities. Make the most of your membership by clicking on the brands and opportunities that interest you most. By doing so you’ll benefit from discounts and other privileges from the items you select. Visit thereserve-asia.com/reserveme and start clicking today. Still can’t get enough? Don’t forget you can get your daily luxury fix on The Reserve website, thereserve-asia.com, or by following us on our social pages. ReserveAsia
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Paul Law MEMBER PROFILE Beginning his career as a shop salesman, this ambitious entrepreneur has successfully opened his dream factory and now spends much of his time adding to his extensive property portfolio.
MY PASSIONS My passion is… finding and viewing intriguing new properties.
My favourite Hong Kong memory is… every business deal I have made here.
My choice of watch is… Cartier. My proudest achievement is… going from nothing to everything that I have accomplished today. My favourite travel destination is… Penang for the time being. You can find beautiful weather, amazing and talented people and top-notch hotel services. It’s a peaceful city, with everything you need and is really starting to develop. For a special occasion, I like to dine at… one of my private villas in Ting Kau, located right in front of the beach.
For clothing, I like to go to… Shanghai. If you know the right places to shop it is a fashion haven with trendy clothing at affordable prices. Membership in The Reserve works for me because… they know everything that is going on in the world, from fashion to cars, and they keep us members informed by hosting fantastic events where you can learn new things, meet new people, enjoy yourself and even invest! This saves us a lot of time and keeps us up-todate with the happenings in the world.
NEW LUXURY PARTNERS We continue to work with some of the world’s leading luxury brands. Here’s just a snapshot of our recent partnerships.
The innovative Portuguese furniture brand is consistently striving to apply new techniques, materials and concepts to unique statement pieces. Creative designs and quality craftsmanship have made them a hit with design fans worldwide. Members are entitled to an exclusive 20% discount on any piece. Simply contact us for redemption details.
DEEP-SEA ADVENTURE This unique expedition allows members to delve to the depths of the Indian Ocean and discover an incredible history that lies beneath the waves. Charter this 2-man submarine and safely explore unspoilt coral reefs as well as historic wrecks. This experience is limited to a small number of guests each year. To make sure you’re one of them, contact us.
ARMOURED ASIA
The global specialist in vehicle protection and customisation has access to the latest technology, materials and engineers to modify cars to withstand any environment or attack, whilst ensuring performance and aesthetics are not compromised. Members benefit from a personal introduction to experts at Armoured Asia and preferential rates on modifications.
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INVITATIONS Best of Britain
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BEST OF BRITAIN The Langham Hong Kong - 26 June Britain has rolled out some of the best luxury brands in the world, and our members celebrated them in royal style at our recent Best of Britain event. Everything from the wines to the whiskies had a British heritage and the silent auction, featuring a journey on the Eastern & Oriental Express, a chair from Timothy Oulton and two Bremont watches, raised over HK$150,000 in successful bids with proceeds benefitting local charity, The Good Rock Foundation. R
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Dinner with Kasparov
PRIVATE DINNER WITH KASPAROV KEE Club - 7 June
Members who attended our private dinner at Central’s KEE Club with chess legend Garry Kasparov and Lionel Gavignet, CEO and founder of Gold & Play, came away having learnt two important things. Firstly, how to play better chess, thanks to Garry who was on hand to dish out top tips to wannabee sharks. Secondly, members realised their current chess sets could do with an upgrade. The 18-karat gold and diamond model unveiled by Gold & Play during the event totally stole the show. R
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INVITATIONS 50th Summit
50th INVESTMENT SUMMIT Club Lusitano - 19 June If there’s one thing our members love it’s a promising investment opportunity. So it came as little surprise when The Reserve’s 50th Investment Summit at Club Lusitano in Central was an oversubscribed hit. As members were wined and dined (thanks to Berry Bros. & Rudd for the former) they tuned in to presentations ranging from the physical bullion market and property investment to contemporary art and antique luggage. Happily, anyone who ever doubted that buying vintage Louis Vuitton luggage was a sensible investment, needs to think again – thanks Pinth! R
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The sea is our home. By day it is our waking view, our playground, our road to places both familiar and unexplored. It takes us to dense cities and pristine coves. Atolls and icebergs. Ancient archaeological wonders and modern-day marvels. By night it is the soothing floor beneath us, flashing a glimmer toward our windows as we dine, unwind, remember our day. It is our passion. That’s why we have chosen to call The World home. To learn more about the rare opportunity to become a part of this unique lifestyle, we invite you to explore further aboardtheworld.com. +1 954 960 7895 | ResidentialAdvisor@aboardtheworld.com
4/8/14 11:53 AM
INVITATIONS Andrea Bocelli
ANDREA BOCELLI Tuscany - May When we found out that Italian tenor, Andrea Bocelli would be performing again at the Teatro del Silenzio in Italy’s Tuscany, we knew our members would be desperate for tickets. The Reserve managed to secure VIP passes with executive seating for our lucky invitees, who came along for a 4-night trip to Tuscany, soaking up the local history and cuisine as well as the music. R
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INVITATIONS Herald Land
HERALD LAND Zafran - 20 August Members braved a very wet August evening to hear from UK land and property investment experts Herald Land at this recent event at Wyndham Street’s Zafran. The team flew in to present minimum entry, high-yielding investment opportunities such as pre-development land, student accommodation and airport parking. The verdict? It was worth getting wet for! R
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YOUR PERSONAL JOURNEY STARTS HERE 365 Aviation is your worldwide private jet partner offering exceptional service, utmost discretion and VIP treatment for your bespoke aircraft charter Benefit from: - Established history and first-class reputation - Access to a wide range of state-of-the-art private jets - Personalised end-to-end service - A wider choice of airports and flexible flight schedules
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Insights The talk of the town
ART Anyone who was lucky enough to catch his exhibition in September will know that Romain Jacquet-Lagrèze is an extraordinarily talented photographer, able to reveal obscure sides of Hong Kong and present urban sceneries bottom-up with incredible results. Now, prints from his Vertical Horizon series are available for sale as limited-edition fine art prints in three sizes. rjl-art.com
2,120 The number of steps to the top of the ICC, Hong Kong’s tallest skyscraper THE
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MUSIC You’ve got all the albums, seen the movie, now it’s time to book your tickets for the ABBA-inspired Mamma Mia musical, showing at the Lyric Theatre until 26 October. Featuring a stellar cast from the UK, the show promises a night of fun and mood-lifting music including hits like Dancing Queen and One of Us.
“There was too much commuting and it was a bit too hot. I think that’s why we didn’t get it finished” Damon Albarn of Blur explaining why their latest album, recorded in Hong Kong, may never come out
Steven Osborne is renowned for the wide variety of his repertoire from the mainstream classical works of Mozart, Beethoven and Brahms to the rarefied worlds of Messiaen, Tippett and Britten. He was also recognised at the Royal Philharmonic Society’s Awards in 2013 as Instrumentalist of the Year. Catch him at this Recital Series Concert at The University of Hong Kong, Grand Hall on 26 October. THE
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The Talk of the Town
YACHTING Fancy upgrading your superyacht? The new 145-metre X-force by Admiral sets new skyhigh standards in the industry. Features include two helipads, a submarine, space for 22 guests to sleep and two ‘ultra-wide’ swimming pools. admiralyachts.it
Handbags were once frivolous and fun but as prices rise and vintage models start exploding in value, they’ve become an investment too, especially if they are from Hermès. Maia Luxury sources rare Hermès pieces for clients, and has just launched online. Browse the likes of the Teatime Sapphire Box or the Sac a Malice Accordian of which only one has ever been made. maialuxury.com
120 metres The length of a new zipline attraction proposed by Peak Galleria for the roof of its shopping centre
SHOPPING Fans of luxury fashion brand Fendi have been cooing over the newly reopened store in the Landmark. Tokyo-based French architect Gwenael Nicolas is responsible for the new look which features furniture from the Brazilian Campana Brothers and an exclusive VIP room with a painting by the renowned Italian painter Agostino Bonalumi. Next on the list for Fendi: real estate. The brand recently confirmed that they are planning to open branded residences in Miami. Watch this space.
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Investment HOW BEST TO INVEST
Asia’s investors are looking beyond the grape to rare and fine whiskies Raising a Dram, p. 42
INVESTMENT
Shopping for Residency
Shopping for
RESIDENCY Buyers now get a lot more than bricks and mortar when investing in property abroad WORDS BY ALEX FREW MCMILLAN
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One Portuguese lawyer, Maria Antonia Cameira, says all the queries she has received about ‘golden visas’ come from the same place: China. “It’s the interest in becoming a European citizen or having free access to almost all airports in Europe,” Cameira says. Such ‘passport shopping’ is increasingly common, and it’s not just Portugal that is looking to shore up its economy by luring foreign capital into bricks and mortar. Not to be outdone, Spain brought in a carboncopy scheme shortly after its neighbour, with the same spending requirement. Cyprus and Greece have also introduced similar schemes allowing residency through real estate. Perhaps as a sign of how desperate the country’s economic position is, the Greek plan requires the least investment, at €250,000. Cyprus has set a threshold of €300,000. Property-industry insiders say investors have those figures at their fingertips when deciding where to buy. “The people who are doing it are very savvy,” says Chris Dillon, the author of Landed Global, a guide to investing in real estate in other countries for expatriate buyers. “They will literally sit down and compare the various options that
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hen Hong Kong-based property agent Chris Liem takes clients on trips to Portugal, they’re often looking to spend exactly €500,000 in residential or office property. And there’s a very good reason; under Portugal’s ‘golden visa’ scheme, that investment gives them the right to residency. What’s more, buyers accustomed to the high prices in Hong Kong, Shanghai and Beijing discover their euro stretches a lot further. Most, if not all, of the clients in the small groups of five or 10 people that Liem accompanies snap a property up. “We have a very high strike rate,” Liem says. “For half a million euro, you can get something really amazing, right on the water, close to public transport, close to all the shops and the airport.” Having access to Portugal then opens up the whole Schengen visa region. That provides visa-free access to 22 European Union nations as well as Iceland, Norway and Switzerland.
INVESTMENT
Shopping for Residency
“There is a significant difference in programs for citizenship and second passports versus permanent residency”
are on offer and find the best deal for them in terms of liabilities and requirements.” It’s also possible to go immediately to citizenship in countries such as Cyprus by investing five million euro into real estate. “There is a significant difference in programmes for citizenship and second passports versus permanent residency,” Gary Crates, the director of private clients at ECI Wealth Services, notes. The programmes are regularly updated and modified, he adds, requiring diligence to keep on top of them all. Second passports are popular with citizens of emerging-market countries such as in China, where government policy can change overnight. Malta will give you a second passport for purchasing around €250,000 in real estate. In Montenegro the magic number is €500,000. It’s US$312,000 in Cambodia. Certain Caribbean nations also allow direct citizenship through real estate investment, such as St. Kitts & Nevis (at least US$400,000), and Antigua & Barbuda (US$400,000), although Crates says both those schemes may soon undergo some changes to make them more attractive. Having been in effect since 1984, the St. Kitts & Nevis scheme is one of the longest-running in the world. Don Lockman, the director of sales and marketing at the development Pelican Bay in St. Kitts & Nevis, points out, “As citizens of the Caribbean country, the property purchaser and his or her family have visa-free travel to more than 120 countries and territories.” The investor must hold the property for five years, at which point it can be sold. But the citizenship is permanent, and also applies to a spouse, children under 25 and dependent parents over 65. “When you acquire citizenship under this programme, you and your family enjoy full citizenship for life, which can be passed on to future generations by descent,” Lockman says, “there’s no residency requirement.” Even well-established economies typically allow foreigners to attain residency – but not normally instant
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citizenship – through investment. In the United States, the process is called the EB-5 scheme. It requires investment into a property project of US$1 million in metropolitan cities or US$500,000 in areas that are considered underdeveloped. The development is also supposed to create 10 jobs. The funds have to remain in the US project for five years. “The investors are basically lending the funds to the developer and should, in principle, get their funds back at the end of the loan,” Sam Van Horebeek, director of EastWest Property Advisors, says. The investor can normally move to the US six to 12 months after making the investment by securing a ‘conditional green card,’ which allows a non-national to remain permanently in the US. The investor has to visit at least once a year to keep the green card active, although there’s no minimum stay required. Patrick O’Neill, who with his brokerage O’Neill Group specialises in helping Chinese buyers find properties in the US, says many Chinese investors purchase property in two cities or more. Their main objective is to find somewhere ‘safe’ overseas to park their capital and plan for their children’s education. He recalls one couple who came to his office looking for a property near Stanford University, where their child would stay whilst studying medicine. When O’Neill asked how old their child was, the couple confessed the mother had only just got pregnant. But they wanted to get a head start. It can be a good idea to buy a rental property rather than a holiday home, and potentially get an agency to manage it. Pool maintenance, gardening and repairs all take time and effort. Dillon, the property author, has a friend who bought in Portugal but then found he had overestimated how much time he would spend there, and underestimated how long it took to get there. But for individuals seeking the many benefits associated with citizenship and residency, giving up a bit of leisure time seems a small price to pay, providing the destination is an enjoyable one for the investor. R
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Sun, Sand & Sotogrande
SUN, SAND AND SOTOGRANDE A sparkling investment opportunity in Sotogrande, Andalusia’s largest privately-owned residential development
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ocated in Spain’s southern Cadiz province, Sotogrande is Andalusia’s largest privatelyowned residential development and a popular holiday destination for Europe’s glitterati – Tony Blair and the Duke of Anjou have summer homes here, among others. Bordering the Mediterranean Sea on one side and the foothills of the Sierra Almenara on the other, the project offers everything you might expect from an idyllic seaside resort including pristine beaches, lush subtropical gardens, swimming pools, golf courses and a range of sport and recreation facilities. While Spain’s property market was hard hit by the global financial crisis (prices declined for six consecutive years), there are signs the country’s real estate market is finally stabilising. Home sales increased by 14% in the first quarter of 2014 compared to the fourth quarter of 2013. There were 83,022 sales in the period, of which 37,731 were new homes and 45,291 were resale properties. Demand has also been boosted by the Golden Visa scheme, which is proving popular with overseas buyers. Recent data from the General Council of Notaries in Spain shows that US, Chinese and Russian buyers were among the most active foreign buyers in Spain during the first quarter of 2014 with buying activity from each nationality
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increasing by 88.9%, 83.1% and 62.6% respectively, compared with 2013. Nearly 20% of all Spanish property sales in the first quarter of the year were to foreign buyers. Sotogrande features several residential enclaves and various property styles ranging from marina apartments to golf villas. The homes at Los Cortijos de la Reserva are connected to La Reserva Golf Club, one of the country’s most popular courses, which has hosted the PGA Tour, the European Masters and the 2014 European Tour NH Collection Open. Referencing traditional Andalucian architecture – a combination of Moorish and Spanish influences – the colorful, rustic-style properties vary from 2 to 3-bedroom townhouses to 3 to 4-bedroom villas on large land plots ranging from 2,500 to 4,800 sq m. Residents enjoy golf and sea views, pool access and 24hour security. Owners also have preferential terms to a right of play on the 18-hole course designed by Cabell B. Robinson, which also includes one of the country’s largest clubhouses with an exclusive members-only area. Another of Sotogrande’s residential communities, Ribera del Marlin, is located nearby the Marina de Sotogrande. Here, buyers can choose from two to four-bedroom apartments and enjoy access to outdoor swimming pools, gardens, tree-lined footpaths, a gym and pampering sauna, Jacuzzi and Turkish baths, as well as a
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range of upscale shops, restaurants and cafés in the area. A number of private 12-15m berths are also available for investment. Sotogrande also features Las Cimas de Almenara II, a collection of 18 luxury villas built in modern, Mediterranean style. Pure white façades juxtapose against the deep blue of the Mediterranean and the rolling green of the golf courses, while the private terraces, patios and gardens bring in the light, colors and textures of the surroundings. The homes range from 2 to 4-bedrooms and include private swimming pools. Residents here also enjoy close proximity to the Almenara Hotel, the Almenara Golf Course (designed by Dave Thomas), the Elysium Spa and numerous restaurants. Sotogrande’s location on the western entrance of the Straits of Gibraltar makes it an ideal lifestyle destination. In addition to beautiful natural parks, such as Los Alcornocales and the Natural Park of the River Guardiaro, there is the marina at Puerto Sotogrande and a range of golf courses including Club de Golf Valderrama, Real Club de Golf Sotogrande, La Reserva de Sotogrande and San Roque Golf Club. Sotogrande is also known for the Santa María Polo Club, one of the world’s pre-eminent polo clubs. The nearest airports are Gibraltar (15 minutes), Malaga (1 hour) and Jerez (1 hour). R
For a direct introduction to the developers of Sotogrande or for more information on the residency benefits of Spain’s Golden Visa scheme, contact: member@thereserve-asia.com
INVESTMENT Fit for Royalty
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FIT FOR ROYALTY
Property investors look to Bulgaria’s new Royal Riviera Resort for majestic returns concierge services and helicopter pad. There are also onsite conference facilities and luxury boutiques set to include high-end brands such as Versace and Prada, as well as a climate-controlled wine cellar and cigar lounge. The project’s location among a lush, undulating landscape also makes it an ideal choice for golf enthusiasts. The sport is booming in Bulgaria and world-class golf courses such as Thracian Cliffs Signature Course, the Lighthouse Signature Golf Course and BlackSeaRama Golf Course offer stunning scenery and great value. There is also an 18-hole golf course located just three miles from the resort. After the long summer season ends, Bulgaria also offers powdery slopes and alpine resorts. There are over 15 major locations including Bansko, Borovts and Pamporovo. In recent years the country has invested heavily in its alpine facilities and its slopes are increasingly popular among European skiers as an alternative to the Alps. The process of buying, renting and selling properties at Royal Riviera Resort has been designed to be as seamless as possible. LandTrust Europe, the development company for Royal Riviera Resort, is acting as the managing agent for buyers and rental residents offering a comprehensive investment service that includes everything from viewing trips, designed for both the novice buyer and experienced investor, to an experienced legal team, as well as a management program that helps generate strong rental returns. With over 20 years of experience developing property in locations from the Turks and Caicos to Germany to Spain, LandTrust has developed a strong network with some of the world’s leading management agencies and tour operators. The company also understands that resale and exit strategies are an issue in young and emerging markets, particularly where language barriers and unfamiliar procedures can seem daunting, and have therefore created a dedicated resale department in house. R
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ocated in the heart of Europe, east of Italy and north of Greece, Bulgaria boasts a beautiful western coastline along the Black Sea and offers all of the lifestyle perks of the Mediterranean Riviera; pleasant year-round weather, vineyards, beaches, golf and boating – but without the hefty price tag. A new residential development, the Royal Riviera Resort, aims to offer investors their own slice of luxury and the chance to benefit from the country’s burgeoning property market. Developed by LandTrust Europe and its local property fund Bulgarian Land PLC, the Royal Riviera Resort offers over 200 luxury apartments, a collection of private villas and a range of luxurious amenities. Developers are targeting holiday homeowners looking to enjoy the lifestyle and investors looking to benefit from an up-andcoming property market. European and Russian investors have been active in the market in the first half of 2014 and property analysts believe real estate is likely to experience annual appreciation levels of easily 10% and more over the coming five to 10 years. Paris-trained architect Stefan Dobrev designed the resort to benefit from its coastal location, maximising sea views and adding a classic touch to the buildings. The villas are accessed via a private road and feature 215 sq m of living space spread over three floors. Private parking and tree-lined plots with manicured gardens create a sense of peaceful solitude. The apartments themselves boast interiors designed by Versace and are spread across four buildings in a variety of unit styles, from studios to threebedrooms, and range in size from 185-392 sq m. The secure, gated community was also created with lifestyle in mind. Property owners at Royal Riviera Resort will enjoy an array of amenities that include a members-only beach club, golf course, tennis courts, a spa,
INVESTMENT Raising a Dram
Raising a Dram As investing in wine and buying en primeur become more mainstream, Asia’s investors are looking beyond the grape to rare and fine whiskies
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WORDS BY ZOE BELHOMME
n the past 10 years, annual sales of single malt Scotch whisky increased by 190% from US$390m to US$1.1bn according to the Scotch Whisky Association, growth unseen by any other liquors or even wine. But not only are people drinking more whisky, some are also selecting rare and premium bottles and holding on to them with the view that they will increase in value over time. Part of the reason for this trend is that there is a finite stock of rare whiskies available, as distillers in the 1970s, 1980s and 1990s weren’t able to foresee such international demand for their product – especially from Asia. Every bottle now sold and taken out of normal circulation decreases supply and puts an upward pressure on the price of remaining stock. This new dynamic has led to an explosion in whisky collecting worldwide and has generated an increase in the number of rare whisky bottles coming to auction markets and being made available for sale. The rise in demand for rare malts prompted Hong Kong-based and Platinum Wines chief executive officer Rickesh Kishnani to collaborate with whisky expert David Robertson earlier this year to form the world’s first private equity whisky fund. The pair have already begun raising capital for The Platinum Whisky Investment Fund and are
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searching the market carefully selecting parcels of exclusive, premium single-malt whiskies from around the world at below market prices. While some whisky connoisseurs get a thrill out of hunting down the most rare, premium bottles to add to their collection, others are more interested in making a return in this up-and-coming alternative investment market. Kishnani reveals, “Collectibles – or ‘Investments of Passion’ - are growing in popularity as an alternative investment asset class and premium Scotch whisky is at the head of the pack.” He adds, “Whisky is arguably a better investment product over the long term than wine as it’s non-perishable, easy to store and doesn’t age in the bottle, so its price remains relatively stable.” Kishnani’s business partner and chief investment officer of The Platinum Whisky Investment Fund, David Robertson, has strong credentials and 20 years of experience in the business; he was formerly master distiller for The Macallan on Speyside and subsequently the rare whisky director for The Dalmore. He believes that even though asking prices for the best-known, top end single malts have risen steeply in recent years, both at auction and in other sectors of the secondary market, there are still some bargains to be found if you know what you’re
“The Platinum Whisky Investment Fund was launched early in 2014 with a target commitment of US$10m. Thus far over US$4m has been raised.” THE RESERVE
MEMBER NEWS Members enjoy direct access to the experts at The Platinum Whisky Investment Fund who can help you diversify your existing investment portfolio through premium malt whiskies. Contact us for an introduction: member@thereserve-asia.com
looking for. He points out, “Research shows that premium whisky is an aspirational drink. Connoisseurs and collectors are acquiring the best of what is available as a mark of their wealth, status and power and now production of aged whisky takes time and current demand is outstripping supply, especially in Asia.” “Rickesh has strong relationships with distributors and I bring long-standing relationships with renowned distilleries, private collectors and suppliers. Together, this gives us a compelling offer for disposal direct to auction houses and privately to whisky buyers, including affluent connoisseurs, investors and collectors,” Robertson adds. Investors will not only be entitled to shares in the Cayman Islands-based corporation when they commit to The Platinum Whisky Investment Fund, they will also directly own all of the whisky purchased. And in addition to the anticipated return of 15-20% annually, investors will be given selected, physical whisky stock from the portfolio to enjoy on a regular basis. With the market moving and maturing quickly in Europe, North America and now Asia, investors with a penchant for whisky can now capitalise on their passions with the help of experts with a proven track record – and enjoy a fine wee dram in the process for good measure. R THE
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INVESTMENT Learning Curve
LEARNING CURVE
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Three start-ups riding the digital education wave
s the Hong Kong government pours more money into the education sector, an opportunity has arisen for forwardthinking start-ups to piggy-back on these initiatives. Often, the government will provide the hardware and infrastructure, leaving a perfect gap for start-ups to step in, innovate and provide the software, content and management. The digital revolution in education touches upon many
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industries including gaming, publishing and hardware, rapidly changing the way children learn and play. Parents, meanwhile, are always looking for ways to turn what have traditionally been seen as ‘distractions’ into something positive. With the help of www.investable.vc, the online portal that connects investors with high potential companies seeking capital, The Reserve has selected three investment opportunities and spoken with the entrepreneurs driving these new businesses.
What is eSchoolPad? It’s a cloud-based mobile device management solution for education, which gives teachers and parents the comfort and confidence to allow children to use mobile devices in classrooms and at home. eSchoolPad works like a remote control. In a few clicks, teachers can switch the app shown on a child’s connected mobile device, deliver relevant content or even lock it so that users can only access pre-approved apps. Why is something like this needed by schools? The Hong Kong Government is currently promoting e-learning, backing initiatives with substantial funding. Educational mobile devices are gaining momentum in replacing traditional textbooks.With this comes the need for mobile-friendly classroom management software, which is where eSchoolPad comes in. Are schools in Hong Kong already using the product? The eSchoolPad solution has already been developed and has been in pilot testing since January 2014. Over 50 schools across Hong Kong participated in our pilot programme, which deployed over 1,000 devices. Our commercial launch was on 1st August 2014.We’ve received positive feedback from teachers and principals – so much so that we already have more than a dozen schools paying for the service. How did you and your team come up with this idea? Our team used to work for CartoonNetwork. Most of us are
IT experts and we are very knowledgeable in mobile device management technology. Prior to Avrio, the team focused on creating content for children’s entertainment. How much will this cost parents or schools? The basic subscription fee is US$20 per device per annum. This allows school admins to manage iPads across their institutions and includes teacher-friendly classroom management capabilities.There are other value-added services that will be charged on top of the basic subscription fee. We operate with an official reseller, where eSchoolPad is distributed through the largest education-focused Apple authorised reseller in Hong Kong. How much are you looking to raise and what will it go towards? We are now raising US$500,000 to expand our product development and to bring eSchoolPad to South Asia.This market is ready for disruption in the education space. Local governments are similarly pushing for e-learning initiatives. For example, almost one million tablets have been given to primary school students in Thailand.
Company name: Avrio Solutions Company Limited Date founded: July 2013 Website: eschoolpad.com Investment sought: US$500,000 Equity offered: TBC To invest: Email info@investable.vc
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Zorro is the co-founder of Avrio, which has developed eSchoolPad, winner of the HK ICT Startup Awards 2014. The product is a mobile device management solution that will serve as a catalyst for e-learning transformation in the education sector.
INVESTMENT Learning Curve
Suzanne So (SS) and Leo Lau (LL), co-founders of tablet game Joy Sprouts, have spent most of their lives in different parts of the world, they’ve worked in different industries including marketing and technology and each have very different traits. They believe this unique blend of strengths is a great asset in their start-up.
Awards 2013, where we came in the top 50 against over 1,000 international companies.These awards brought us to the attention of investors in Silicon Valley and Hong Kong. We set up our headquarters in the US but keep operation and development teams in Hong Kong to leverage the breadth of relatively low-cost talent.
Where did the idea of Joy Sprouts come from? SS: As the manager responsible for McDonald’s Happy Meal campaigns, it’s in my nature to observe how children interact with games, and the behaviour of my small nephews towards digital content grabbed my attention.They would get fully drawn into watching the same Disney movie a dozen times a day. I was worried by this constant repetition and concerned about whether this was damaging their cognitive, creative and social development.
What are your futures plans for your start-up? SS:We are raising our first round of funding and will work relentlessly to enhance our product, develop 50 games (which we call Sprouts) based on content that we can access through our world-class partners.We will also aim to launch into the US to gain significant user traction. Looking further ahead, we have set our sights on education intelligence, or big data in education.
How is Joy Sprouts different from other tablet games for children? LL:We are the only Silicon Valley-based company which has signed titles with an elite group of world-class partners including BBC Worldwide, Oxford University Press and Garfield.We have developed technology that follows every interaction and habit of the child playing on the Joy Sprouts platform. All the data collected can be analysed to offer parents scientifically-generated reports and recommendations to help with their child’s total development.We are also the only company that embraces a child’s full physical, social and emotional development, language and cognitive ability as well as their creativity. Who are you targeting and how big is the market? LL: Our first target market is the US, with a population of 16.9m children between 2-6 years old and an estimated market size of US$3.92bn per subject matter. Based on our in-depth analysis we first target the ‘low hanging fruit’ of tech savvy parents, who are concerned about their children’s development, are early adopters, iPad owners, live in the coastal cities and earn over US$100,000 per annum. Where are you based? SS: Since we launched the beta of our product, we have won a number of awards including Silicon Valley’s TiE50
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How will the platform make money? LL:We will be selling in-app Sprouts through a subscription model.We will also charge a Sprouts development fee where we charge content providers a game development fee for turning their digital assets into a purchasable Sprout. Finally we will look into licensing our software to schools. How much are you looking to raise and what will it go towards? SS: We are looking to raise US$225,000 in funding in addition to the US$325,000 we already have confirmed from other investors, which brings us to our target seedfunding amount of US$550,000. Our mission with the fund is to officially launch a consumer-facing product with 50 Sprouts from world-class content providers. We are also preparing to collaborate with selected pre-schools and kindergartens in the US to trial our product and to get our foot in the door in schools.
Company name: Joy Sprouts Date founded: October 2011 Website: joysprouts.com Investment sought: US$550,000 (60% raised) Equity offered: Funding via convertible notes To invest: Email info@investable.vc
Is this your first invention? Not at all. I have invented, developed, manufactured and licensed quite a few innovative electronic toys in the past. Some examples are an interactive baby doll which had huge success in the US, the first stable hovering toy remotecontrolled helicopter, the smallest indoor remote-control toy plane, which was even recorded in the Guinness Book of World Records, and recently a very successful light-spot following toy car. Why is the Tabby something that children and parents need? No doubt all parents are now avid users of smartphones and electronic tablets. Kids see their parents using them and want one too. This solution is expensive. Tabby is available for just US$89, and is a tablet with all the functionality of an expensive Android tablet. In addition to an attractive price, we added two very important features to the Tabby. Firstly, it has complete kid-safe protection. Second, we can pre-load the Tabby with recommended and age-appropriate content for education and for entertainment, recommended by professionals and parents alike.
Have you already begun your production and how has it been received so far by children and parents? Our 2014 products are ready to be launched, and we expect both children and parents to be very excited about it. Tablets never had such comprehensive, yet easy user interfaces with so much suitable content. We expect great feedback and we have no doubt that a pocket-size tablet will be very popular and carried by kids at all times. What would it cost for a parent to buy this for their child? Just US$99 for the 7” Tabby and US$89 for the 5.1” tablet. And we are talking about dual-core processor and high resolution screens.Very soon, quad-core as well – with a very slight price differentiation. On my side, the manufacturing cost is less than $40, leaving a reasonably good margin for Playtime, as well as the rest of the selling chain. As more than 2m tablet units were sold in 2013 in the US, we expect that by investing sufficiently in marketing the return to investors would be very attractive. How much are you looking to raise and what will it go towards? We are looking for about US$1m towards marketing investments (TV ads, social media, and character licensing) including hiring and employing a VP of marketing. We will also need interim finance for order execution. R
Company name: Tabby Date founded: December 2012 Website: tabbytablet.com Investment sought: US$1 million Equity offered: TBC To invest: Email info@investable.vc
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Michael Sivan is an inventor and the co-founder of Playtime, which has produced Tabby, an Android tablet designed especially for kids.
INVESTMENT Raise Your Game
RAISE YOUR
GAME Hong Kong’s top CEOs are turning to meditation in an effort to boost business. Can it really work? WORDS BY LIZ THOMAS
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is nothing new – the Chinese Shaolin and Japan’s Samurai warriors used it as part of their basic training. “Almost all professional athletes do visualisation or meditation before performing because of its effectiveness, and as business people, we can use meditation to bring our game to a higher level,” she adds. On the trading floor a short mental time out can lead to better decision making and a more rational approach. “I’ve had a very powerful banker tell me that when the f inancial markets get too crazy, he tells everyone that he is going on a three minute holiday. He pops on his headphones, listens to one of our guided meditations with his eyes closed and when he’s done, he says that it’s like he’s been on holiday for a week. He says that it’s made him work much smarter, and with much better intuition and less self-doubt.”
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new secret weapon has been unleashed across the offices and trading floors of the world’s major commerce hubs. Titans of industry from Central to Wall Street are turning to meditation to unlock one of their biggest assets – their minds and those of their staff. “Meditation can lower stress levels, stimulate creativity, sharpen intuition and develop emotional skills such as sensitivity. We have had global Fortune 500 CEOs and chairmen attend our retreats and they view it as an investment, not a luxury, as they are learning the tools of self-mastery,” says Crystal Leahy, founding director of Hong Kong’s Legacy Retreats. It seems incongruous at f irst but using meditation to sharpen the mind and your competitive edge
INVESTMENT Raise Your Game
“Without a clear mind, it’s very difficult to make rational decisions on business deals”
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Perhaps it is too much to suggest there is a wave of calm sweeping big business, but there is certainly a distinct shift in the corporate approach. Goldman Sachs has special meditation pods for staff, Steve Jobs gave Apple employees 30 minutes each day to meditate at work and provided a dedicated space for it. American hedge fund giant Bridgewater has hired f ilm director David Lynch, a keen advocate of meditation, to teach the practice to its employees, while management consultant f irms such as McKinsey now recommend many of their huge corporate clients develop their own meditation programmes. Google has a dedicated head of mindfulness training (off icial title Jolly Good Fellow) and thousands of employees have signed up for the classes. But this isn’t a new altruism – yes the evidence so far suggests there are health and well-being benef its to staff, but businesses can see a return on this investment, too. Absenteeism in the Hong Kong workforce is 1.5% according to 2013 government statistics, while in the US and Europe it is around 2.5-3%.
with attention and executive thinking and decision making. Your prefrontal cortex also regulates the amygdala. The stronger you are in this part of your brain, the more you can regulate anger and feelings of powerlessness,” Google’s head of mindfulness training Chade-Meng Tan explained in a recent speech at the University of Pennsylvania. Research by the University of Washington found meditation can help people stay focused, improve their memory and reduce stress. Leahy adds, “In Hong Kong, we worship the cult of speed and efficiency. People talk fast, walk fast, think fast, eat fast. But efficient is not the same as effective. In order to be truly effective as a person and a leader, we need also to master the skill of slowing down and listening to the needs of ourselves and others. “Think of your mind like a glass of muddy water. If you let it be, the dirt will settle to the bottom and the water will be clear again. The noise and stress of daily life will always be there, just like the mud in the water, but meditation gives us the opportunity to go into a state of stillness and see clearly again.” R
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The Meditation Foundation says having dedicated classes can help f irms, “lower absenteeism, improve staff ’s cognitive function, creativity and productivity, as well as reduce staff turnover.” Denise Lim, associate director at a global human resources f irm, who is an acolyte of the Kadampa Meditation Centre of Hong Kong explains, “When employees are focused, they become more engaged in their work and business productivity will increase, bringing signif icant returns to organisations. With meditation, the mind is clearer. Without a clear mind, it’s very diff icult to make rational decisions on business deals.” There is some science to back up the theories. Research by the INSEAD Business School found doing just 15 minutes of meditation can lead to increased rational thinking, and in turn better decision-making in the work place. A study published by Harvard Medical School in 2005 showed meditating boosts and develops the prefrontal cortex of the brain. “That is the part of the brain that has to do
INVESTMENT Diamond Registry
KNOW YOUR
STONES An online diamond wholesaler explains how investors can benefit by cutting out the middle man WORDS BY LIANA CAFOLLA
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f you know your stones, investing in diamonds can lead to very attractive returns – as high as 50% or more on a 10-year investment. That’s according to Nissan Perla, CEO of Diamond Registry, an online diamond wholesaler. He recounts the story of a woman who contacted him from Bangkok wanting to sell a loose stone. “I asked her where she got the diamond,” he recalls, “and she said she had bought it in a Singapore jewellery shop about 10 years earlier. She sent me the invoice, and I saw that it was from a good friend of mine.” It turned out that the diamond had first been sold by Perla to his friend, who had in turn sold it to the lady in Bangkok, who had paid about US$300,000 for the stone. “I bought it from her for about US$400,000,” says Perla, “she made a lot of money.” Many investors are choosing diamonds over other investment options largely because of the loss of confidence in the banking system as a consequence of the 2008 financial crisis, and the unpredictability of
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global property prices in the years since. Diamond prices fluctuated in the wake of the crisis, but have since picked up steam, driven in part by interest from new markets, such as the newly wealthy in China and India. Increasing confidence and access to the Internet has encouraged people to look online for their diamond purchases, says Perla, who has more than 35 years of experience in the diamond wholesale business. “In the same way as people look for news on the Internet, they now go online for diamond information, and it’s not only the kids who grew up with it,” he says, adding that online sales of over US$1 million for individual Diamond Registry clients are no longer unusual. One of the places they can turn to for diamond information is Perla’s company. Diamond Registry was founded in 1961 and sells loose diamonds at wholesale prices direct to individual buyers as far apart as China and the US, as well as supplying jewellers and diamond dealers. Its website lists wholesale diamond prices so buyers can compare prices. Potential buyers
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INVESTMENT Diamond Registry
“The good part about a diamond is that when you make a decision, it takes 20 seconds to complete - no lawyers, no long meetings. It’s quick and easy.” can fill in an online form about the kind of diamond they are interested in buying and after receiving their information, Diamond Registry contacts its network of suppliers and comes back to the buyer with a range of options and prices. The company’s experts also offer personal diamond education, either over the phone, at the company’s offices in New York and Hong Kong, or by arrangement anywhere in the world. By cutting out middlemen, buyers benefit from substantial savings. “We will get you the diamond cheaper than from anyone else,” he promises. Another attraction of online buying is the quick, hassle-free purchasing process. “The good part about a diamond is that when you make a decision, it takes 20 seconds to complete – no lawyers, no long meetings,” Perla says. “It’s quick and easy, and there are no extra expenses when you sell it.” For the best chance of getting a high return on the investment, Nissan recommends buying the best within your budget and choosing something you love. “It’s not an either-or situation,” he explains. Diamond Registry also has in-house jewellers who can design bespoke jewellery from your stones and diamonds which can later be unmounted if you want to exchange, upgrade or sell. In any case, when choosing a diamond, buyers need to consider the 4Cs – carat, cut, colour and clarity. The
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size, or the carat, of a diamond is measured by weight, with one carat weighing a featherlight 0.2 grams. The carat size is a mainly f inancial consideration that depends on the amount of money the investor wants to spend, though there are also geographical variations; American buyers often value size over quality, while in Asia the reverse is generally true. The cut determines a diamond’s sparkle and brilliance. It can be chosen according to personal preferences for a particular shape, but for investment purposes, Perla says that your budget determines which stone to buy, and advises buying the best you can within your price range. Diamond colours range from D to Z, with the most desirable being D, the category that is the closest possible to colourless. Whatever the stone, if you buy for investment it is important to choose a certified diamond. The most widely recognised certificates are those issued by GIA, the Gemological Institute of America, which has been grading and certifying diamonds according to the 4Cs since the 1940s. GIA certificates are respected in the industry for their accuracy and reliability. Having a recognised certificate reassures buyers about the quality of the stone they’re buying, and also makes resale much easier, as most would-be buyers will demand such a certificate. R
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INVESTMENT Memory Lane
Memory Lane Paul Fraser of Paul Fraser Collectibles on making money from memorabilia
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verything changed in June 2011, when the dress Marilyn Monroe famously wore above a breezy New York subway grate in The Seven Year Itch went to auction. The US$5.6m it achieved in Beverly Hills astonished everyone, including me. I was an underbidder on the item. For a portion of the general
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public – those with the desire (and wealth) to seek out new, profitable investment angles – this was a eureka moment. It demonstrated beyond doubt that as the world gets the collecting bug, the very finest memorabilia can make serious money. Actress Debbie Reynolds had bought the Monroe dress for just US$400 in 1971. So if you’re game, here is some food for thought.
Famous objects
Celebrity memorabilia
Savvy investors know that iconic props from the most famous films will always be in demand. One of two identical pianos used in Casablanca sold for US$602,500 in 2012, 5.9% per annum up on its US$154,000 sale in 1988, while one of two statuettes from the 1941 film The Maltese Falcon made US$4m last year. Its twin made US$380,500 in 1994 before making US$1m in 1997 – a return of 35.9% per annum. The same goes for instruments played by famous musicians. The Fender Stratocaster Bob Dylan used on the infamous night he first went electric at the Newport Folk Festival in 1965 made US$965,000 late last year, a record for a guitar at auction. On the sporting front, the gold medal won by Jesse Owens at the 1938 Olympics sold for US$1.4m last year, setting a new record for Olympic memorabilia. Bargain investment? Lady Gaga is fast approaching Madonna in terms of global appeal. If her celebrity status endures over the long-term, expect her outlandish props (and costumes) to be worth considerably more in the future. The glowing egg she famously emerged from for the 2011 Grammy Awards already has iconic status.
Costumes worn by Bruce Lee in his films are big business. His Game of Death jumpsuit auctioned for a Bruce Lee record US$83,837 in Hong Kong in December – more than doubling its estimate. Rarity and nostalgia were key factors behind the price. It is one of only two such suits worn by Lee in the film, which was only half-finished when he died in 1973. The other example sold for a comparatively small US$40,000 in 2010, indicating just how far the market has progressed in three years. The Wizard of Oz is one of the most popular films amongst collectors, especially Dorothy’s dresses as only a handful were made for the film. One, worn by Judy Garland, auctioned for US$480,000 in 2012, up 19.3% per annum on its US$2,000 sale in 1981. It’s not just film stars’ costumes that sell for large sums. Elvis Presley and Michael Jackson are two names from the music industry whose clothing is hugely popular. A white suit Elvis wore onstage in the early 1970s made US$197,000 in January, while a signed red leather jacket Jackson wore in the 1983 Thriller video auctioned for US$1.8m in 2011. Bargain investment? Film expert Sir Christopher Frayling THE
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recently told Paul Fraser Collectibles, “Costumes from contemporary films are seriously undervalued. If you can get hold of Bruce Willis’ T-shirt from Die Hard you’re in business.”
Autographs The PFC40 Autograph Index, which tracks the value of 40 of the most regularly traded autographs, has grown in value by 13.6% per annum since 2000. Beatle George Harrison’s signed photos have shown the greatest percentage increase in value since 2000, up 23.2% per annum from US$330 to US$4,990, in large part due to their scarcity and enhanced demand following his death in 2001. Bruce Lee’s signature is valued at US$16,900, up 14.3% per annum from its US$2,960 figure in 2000. Bargain investment? Kurt Cobain’s signature is rare yet relatively inexpensive at around US$350. As Nirvana fans who were teenagers in the 90s come into money, expect demand for his autograph to rise.
CAREFULLY DOES IT Invest in what you love If you’re excited by a collectible, chances are other people out there are excited by it too, which means there should be demand for your item when you choose to sell. By buying into a sector you love, you’re also more likely to be willing to put in the necessary man-hours to spot emerging opportunities and sector trends.
Aim high Buy the best you can afford. The most valuable collectibles will have a combination of desirable attributes which can include rarity, historical importance, quality and provenance. Marilyn Monroe’s Seven Year Itch dress has all four – a rare feat. These are the items collectors are willing to pay top dollar for, and which traditionally show the greatest price appreciation.
Protect yourself with three questions Fakes are a hazardous peril of this business and don’t think it couldn’t happen to you. The FBI believes 80-90% of sports memorabilia on eBay is fake. Don’t be impressed by a certificate of authenticity issued by a dealer - it is worthless. Only be impressed when it is accompanied by a lifetime money back guarantee of authenticity. This ensures that, should the item turn out to be fake in the months or years that follow, you will get your money back. R paulfrasercollectibles.com
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“As the world gets the collecting bug, the very finest memorabilia can make serious money”
INVESTMENT Silverton Real Estate
THE RESERVE
MEMBER NEWS
FUND FOCUS:
SILVERTON REAL ESTATE Mike Young, CFA at the newly launched Silverton Real Estate Fund, discusses investing trends in property
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For more information and a direct introduction to the team at the Silverton Real Estate Fund contact: member@thereserve-asia.com
So where are the future opportunities for good returns? There is high absolute return potential in some frontier markets if the investor can tolerate the geopolitical and development risk. But most remain reluctant to put more than a fraction of their portfolio in high risk-high return markets. I am meeting a lot of investors who have already made a lot on money in real estate and now want to protect that capital gain and make predictable lower risk profits going forward. Most investors would be very happy with a 7-12% annual return from real estate, particularly if there was an absence of development and geopolitical risk. What are the safe havens? The UK and Australia in the developed markets. The US is looking stable as a whole though there are a lot of statespecific issues. You mention the UK but hasn’t the London market enjoyed the same past returns as HK or Singapore implying lower forward-looking returns? You are right. London is a unique market and very different to the rest of the UK. Investors may benefit from looking at 2nd tier cities such as Birmingham, Manchester, Leeds, Bristol and Sheffield. What are your favoured sectors? The best opportunities I have seen recently are in the 2- and 4-star hotel business. High income yields, stable occupancy rates, capital growth potential and the ability to re-brand existing assets to a global brand are the key. There are also opportunities in residential and industrial real estate. What is your role in relation to the Silverton Real Estate Fund? I am the fund advisor. I helped the investment management team launch the fund and I am an independent person on the investment committee
ensuring appraised and selected real estate investments are in line with the objectives of the fund. What about the rest of the investment team? The fund’s investment managers, Jon Purr and Stewart Gunnery, are very experienced real estate managers. In some ways they are traditional, shrewd and astute investment managers with a keen eye for a prof itable deal, like a real estate Warren Buffet, but what impresses me most is their attention to detail for every dollar invested and the thoroughness of their duediligence process. Is it a growth or income fund? The fund aims to pay about 7% income per annum and we expect to provide capital growth as well. The total target return is 10% per annum including the income. To be fair, we have higher hopes and expectations than 10% each year but that hurdle needs to be achieved before the investment managers can earn their incentive fee which is one fifth of the fund’s profits above the 10% annual target after fund costs. What are the fund’s initial and annual management costs? There is usually a 3% placement fee, but during the initial offering period we can reduce or remove this for early investors on a case-by-case basis. The annual fee payable to the investment manager is 1.5% per annum. If you include other costs such as auditing, administration and legal the total expense ratio for the fund at US$50m plus should be around 2.0% per annum or less. The fund’s target return of 10% per annum is post costs, so we think it’s a very fair and attractive charging structure with the manager’s incentive fee helping to align its interests with fund investors. What is the tax treatment of the fund? The fund is domiciled in the Cayman Islands and is free of all tax liabilities there for at least 20 years in line with exempt company legislation there. The Caymans is the leading offshore fund centre with about 10,000 registered funds and US$2tn of assets. Local law is largely based on English law so it’s a business friendly and politically secure market. What type of investors are you looking for? The Silverton Real Estate Fund is designed for professional and high-net worth investors. Fund investors need to understand real estate and should be willing to invest for a few years, not a few months. The minimum investment is US$100,000 or currency equivalent. R
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Real estate has enjoyed significant price increases in recent decades. Can that growth continue? In the past if you held real estate for any 5-year period the probability of making a good return was very high indeed, and in markets such as Hong Kong and Singapore we have seen some very impressive returns with supply unable to keep up with demand. In other markets such as Europe and the US, despite these markets typically being described as mature, the returns have also been good but more volatile than Asia, particularly after the 2008 banking crisis. But that is the past. The future is a different market with different opportunities.
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Insiders INTERVIEWS AND PROFILES
“There is more investment in polo in China than anywhere else in the world, ever” High Horse, p. 84
Ten minutes with...
Tony Cheng Catching up with the Hong Kong restaurant mogul over lunch at his newest venue Isono INTERVIEW BY DOMINIQUE AFACAN
You left a career in banking to pursue your passion for restaurants, how easy was this transition? I don’t think there is ever an easy transition for an entrepreneur. The skill sets you once had and the skill sets required for a new career are often very different. This is especially true in banking, where you take so many resources for granted. The need to brace yourself for the dirty work is a vital part of the mental preparation. What was the first restaurant you opened and what did you learn from these early experiences? The first restaurant I opened was The Drawing Room in 2009 which earned a Michelin star in its first year. The second one was Hainan Shaoye in 2010. They were both amazing experiences because I was hands-on in almost every single operational aspect so the learning curve was steep but fun. Having said that, I believe true learning comes from the times you fail. For me, my lack of human resource management led to lessons being learnt the hard way, but I believe I’ve emerged stronger. You were educated in Britain and have also lived in New York as a banker. How did these locations educate you food-wise? I did my culinary training in Britain and I cooked a lot as a student so that’s where it all began. New York also absolutely wowed me and opened my eyes to what culinary excellence is all about. Many of the meals I had
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High rents have proven to be the downfall of many foodie entrepreneurs, how do you get around this? There is no way to get around this, unless you own the space. All you can hope is to make back your investment and more during the lease term. If you can do that, then you’re already better off than 95% of restaurants out there. Where can you be found eating out when you’re not at one of your own establishments? Thai food and Chinese Muslim cuisine in Kowloon City is by default where I like to go. Otherwise I’m out and about just trying to see the latest trends and happenings. What is next on your agenda? With the tremendously talented team of chefs our group currently has available, I’m hoping to develop an event and catering company. I’m also developing a new Singaporean culinary concept that will be opening in December in Kowloon. R
there had a huge influence on me and I still get nostalgic thinking about them. It was in New York that I fell in love with Italian food and decided to change careers. You keep a relatively low profile – how do you feel about celebrity restaurateurs? They don’t really exist here in Hong Kong, at least not on the scale of the US and Europe. I have complete respect for all the restaurateurs, especially Danny Meyer from New York. There’s a lot to learn from those guys. Tell us about Isono and Vasco, your two new restaurants in the PMQ complex. Isono focuses on shared Mediterranean dishes. The food is heavily influenced by Spanish, Italian and French cuisine and we also have fantastic cocktails developed by the Tastings group that pair perfectly with our food. Vasco is our fine-dining concept in collaboration with Michelinhonoured chef Paolo Casagrande. You also launched AMMO in the Asia Society. What is it that makes you choose artsy locations and heritage sites? Although they are more expensive because of the heritage value, these sites allow me to be more creative and expressive in terms of the concepts I want to develop. Lease terms are also a bit more favourable too, so I can put a little bit more into the decor. THE
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Charging Ahead
CHARGING AHEAD How Elon Musk is taking electric vehicles mainstream WORDS BY ZOE BELHOMME
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arlier this year China received its first shipment of the Tesla Model S, a car making headlines world-wide for its brawn as well as its brain. Given all the hype and global news coverage it’s easy to forget that Tesla is an adolescent Silicon Valley start-up facing all the growing pains of a business embarking on grand expansion plans. Though the market share of electric and hybrid cars is minuscule, the rate of growth and future potential is not. The pioneering fully-electric car company currently has 22,000 cars on the road worldwide, a tiny number in comparison to its gas-guzzling cousins, but it is still the dominating force behind the advancement of electric vehicles. Tesla CEO and serial entrepreneur, Elon Musk, had high hopes for success when he made the bullish move into the Chinese market earlier this year. The world’s largest vehicle market is well known for its smog and pollution problems and the Tesla Model S is considered by many as the car destined to change people’s habits and opinions around electric powered vehicles. Six months since it made its debut in China, Tesla has already opened two ‘stores’ in Beijing and Shanghai and according to Veronica Wu, vice president of Tesla’s China operations, there is a very aggressive growth strategy in place. There are plans to open a further five showrooms before 2014 is out, in cities including Guangzhou, Chongqing and Hangzhou, and after it will continue to grow with stores planned in each of the top-tier cities by 2015. Musk has recognised that China is ‘genuinely committed to electric cars’ and its ambitions to reduce carbon output. Not only has the government agreed to waive the 10
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percent purchase tax on electric vehicles but Shanghai has cut the cost of its city license plates in a bid to get people to choose greener vehicle options – this alone saves drivers almost HKD$95,000 before they even get behind the wheel. Tesla hasn’t just focused on expanding its presence in Mainland China. There has also been a drive to create aspiration and demand among car-loving Hong Kongers, even though the company has yet to even open a store here. And it appears they were right to do so - over 3,000 would-be owners in Hong Kong have paid a deposit in the hope of being among the first to own the Model S and be the envy of their friends and colleagues. Although there have been reports that some customers have been left waiting longer than expected for their cars to arrive, Veronica suggests that from now on people will only be waiting three to four months if they order a
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car today. And there is a good reason why buying a Tesla takes longer than buying an average car; each Model S is custom-made in California with all the trims, colours and materials decided by the customer when they order. From the very beginning, Elon Musk has billed Tesla as a nimble and responsive technology company first and foremost, constantly refining and making adjustments to cars to keep them ahead of the competition. But Musk has been famously quoted as saying he welcomes competition and investment into the electric vehicle (EV) industry as only then will it be pushed to achieve more and rival gaspowered vehicles. With its sleek, bold and stylish design, the Model S is pleasing on the eye and will no doubt turn heads on the street. Gone are the days where electric or hybrid vehicles have to either be quirky or boring to fit in with their ‘safe’ and ‘economical’ stereotype - people
who previously would have only considered a luxury supercar are now choosing the Model S on its looks as well as performance. The top-of-the-range 85 kWh Model S Performance boasts a 0-100km time of 4.4 seconds, a top speed of over 200km and an impressive range of almost 500km – comfortably taking its place among the world’s leading petrol-powered sports cars. Tesla has made signif icant adjustments to help cement its success in China. The digital interface inside the car has been altered to feature Simplif ied Chinese language and there is a complete air f iltration system with three layers to keep the air inside the car as pure as possible. Although there is a limited recharge infrastructure in China (at present it’s only in Shanghai and Beijing), Tesla plans to build its no-fee Supercharger stations beyond the first-tier cities over the next year. For Tesla to thrive in China, customers must have access to good service and support as well as a large network of charging points so that they can drive from one city to the next without fear that they might run out of power. Already things are changing; in September this year Tesla announced it has signed a strategic agreememnt with China Unicom to begin jointly building charging stations across China. Already a community is emerging. Tesla owners are coming together to prove that positive word of mouth is far more valuable than advertising or expensive marketing campaigns. Drivers are testing their cars to the limits and shouting about it which in turn gets people talking. The Silicon Valley EV sensation has a long way to go before it’s considered mainstream and, at present, huge obstacles stand in its way, but with a seasoned entrepreneur like Elon Musk at the helm there is little doubt that it will continue to make groundbreaking developments and change the automobile landscape forever. R
FORMULA-E The world’s first fully electric racing series, the Formula-E kicked off on 13 September on the grounds of China’s Olympic Stadium in Beijing. The championship will compete across 10 cities including London, Miami and Monte Carlo. The next leg will take place on 22 November in Malaysia, where a street circuit has been designed by architect Simon Gibbons, taking in several of the city’s most recognisable skyscrapers.
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Material Worlds
Material Worlds You only have to step inside Hong Kong’s newest hotels and restaurants to see that interior design is big business in our city. We spoke to five leading design talents to find out what makes them tick.
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Craig Menzies Director, Benoy Hong Kong The most important lesson I have learnt in design is… To really listen to your client. As a designer, you must also be true to yourself, draw on your past experiences and always follow your instincts. What sort of design elements make a happy home? I am a family man and I like items within the home that make life easier – functional design, comfort and good lighting. I like an uncluttered house. And a stylish restaurant? I am quite a foodie and I like to go to a restaurant either for good food, well-presented dishes or for the atmosphere and interesting spaces. Interiors play an extremely important role in the overall dining experience, probably more than we realise.
Craig became a director at Benoy in 2014 and has worked on some of the company’s most significant projects including Elements Mall in Hong Kong and Terminal 4 Changi Airport, scheduled for completion in 2017. What does good design mean to you? Good design makes our daily lives easier through innovation, aesthetics, functionality and durability. It is not always fashionable but never appears old and tired – it conserves resources and minimises the physical and visual pollution of a space. Who are your major influences in the world of design? Renzo Piano and Le Corbusier.
Are there any notable trends we should look out for in the next few months? Metals and textures will play a big role next season as well as a resurgence of ‘back to basics’, which has been around for a while, as people try to simplify their hectic lives. If I had to limit my interiors shopping to one city it would be… Can I have two places? Barcelona and Milan. The biggest faux-pas in interior design? Not following the principle of ‘less is more’. The one place I wish I’d designed myself… Sagrada Familia in Barcelona.
What inspires you today? The younger generation of designers is a constant inspiration for me as well as what I see as innovative, forward-thinking design that pushes the boundaries in our industry. How much do you incorporate sustainability into your work? Sustainability is a key element of today’s good design practices and should always be considered in whatever shape or form. How much do you consider feng shui in your designs? Being in Asia, it does play quite a significant role. I find that the principles are applied to design here either intentionally or subliminally. For me, though, common sense must always apply. THE
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Joyce Wang Founder, Joyce Wang
Secondly, fashion designer Tom Ford for bridging seamlessly into the world of film, creating his own production company and directing A Single Man in 2009. And finally the late Italian architect Carlo Scarpa for effortlessly creating a sense of theatre in his spaces. What inspires you today? Working with talented individuals – designers, craftsmen, fabricators, artists, clients – and hearing their personal take on the value of design. My inspirations also come from film, music and travel. How much do you incorporate sustainability into your work? My affinity for heritage projects is an expression of sustainability. Heritage projects allow my imagination to run wild. It’s about creating a portal for the audience to travel between and experience what once was and what now is. The most important lesson I have learnt in design is… Any idea can be a good idea if it is well executed. What design elements make a happy home? Home is a place to entertain and indulge yourself and those closest to you. There should be a sense of familiarity that is comforting and allows you to let your guard down. And a stylish restaurant? The kind of people in the restaurant and the quality of food it serves come before the design of a restaurant.
Interior designer Joyce Wang is responsible for Hong Kong restaurant favourites including Ammo and the recently opened Mott 32. She also designs lighting and furniture along with residential projects including a RitzCarlton penthouse project in Singapore. What does good design mean to you? It means striking a balance between objectivity and subjectivity, rational and emotional, discipline and indulgence. The most important thing is to make the audience think. Design shouldn’t be superficial – it’s an essential form of expression. Who are your major influences in the world of design? Austrian architect Adolf Loos for designing furniture, lighting and interiors that are inspirational, even today.
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Are there any notable trends we should look out for in the next few months? Recently, I’ve noticed a trend towards an expressionistic aesthetic with an emphasis on wit and humour, particularly in the UK. If I had to limit my interiors shopping to one city it would be… Paris, because it encapsulates and celebrates different eras of design. The biggest faux-pas in interior design? To over-design a space or follow a formula in order to churn out projects mechanically.You see this when interior design firms are operated as revenue-generating enterprises. My dream project would be… Any project brief from an ambitious client that challenges, inspires or even scares me.This could also be a self-initiated project.
Su Ball Executive Director, GA Design How much do you consider feng shui in your designs? For us, an essential aspect of good design is ensuring that the spaces flow, and that shapes and materials work in harmony with each other, so whether it is conscious decision or not, feng shui ultimately influences all of our designs in some ways. What design elements make a happy home? Design pieces in the home have to be practical and comfortable. Lighting is a great way to make bold statements. If I had to limit my interiors shopping to one city it would be… London. There is an incredible selection of interior pieces there and two annual design weeks that really bring the city alive, showcasing designers’ work from the high-end, wellestablished international studios to the graduates who are just starting to put their first designs into production. Su has over 20 years of experience in hospitality design including new-build deluxe resorts, city hotels and 5-star hotel developments. Her latest project is the AU$30m refurbishment of The Langham, Sydney. What does good design mean to you? For me, it’s a conversation between the designer and the person experiencing it. It can work on different levels. Perhaps the design is good because it is both beautiful and practical, and someone can appreciate the skill and thought that has gone into it, or perhaps there is a sense of humour to the piece and the person looking at it understands this. Who are your major influences in the world of design? Over the last few years the work of David Collins and his studio have been inspiring for me. He was always exploring new design and the results were bold and witty. There was also a surprising attention to detail in his work, which meant you were constantly finding new elements to enjoy.
The biggest faux-pas in interior design? Trying to be too fashionable can be risky, especially with hotels. A client needs their design to last and for their guests to feel like they’re experiencing something special whether they’re arriving during opening week or five years later. The one place I wish I’d designed myself… The Sydney Opera House. For me it is still one of the most iconic and instantly recognisable buildings in the world. An interiors piece I’ll never part with… I have a very worn out 19th-century Indian mirror which is the centrepiece in my living room.
The most important lesson I have learnt in design is… Persevere with the original design intent through all of the stages of design. This isn’t always easy and sometimes outside factors can mean you have to make choices that threaten to compromise this but usually with enough thought and hard work (or powers of persuasion!) then a good concept will find its way through. How much do you incorporate sustainability into your work? Sustainable development is deeply integrated into our design approach and is definitely more important to a lot of our clients now. THE
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Matthew Lui Partner, HBA How much do you consider feng shui in your designs? Not much. I never had a clue about feng shui as there are no particular scientific findings to support their claims. The most important lesson I have learnt in design is… One minor mistake becomes a major disaster when it’s repeated in over 300 guestrooms! What design elements make a happy home? Any design elements that make your wife very happy makes a happy home! My home doesn’t need be a palace draped in gold. In fact, letting my other half decide and decorate our home in a way that makes her happy has the most powerful impact.
Mathew Lui is a partner with HBA, one of the world’s leading interior design firms. He is responsible for the look and feel of dozens of leading hotels across the globe, with an emphasis on the China market. Notable openings include Twelve at Hengshan, Shanghai and the revamped Royal Plaza Hotel in Hong Kong. What does good design mean to you? Function, aesthetics and character. Who are your major influences in the world of design? Michael Bedner, one of the godfathers of hotel interior design. And John Morford, who has created some of the most iconic hotel interiors in Asia – from the Grand Hyatt Hong Kong to the Park Hyatt Tokyo.
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Are there any notable trends we should look out for in the next few months? Fashion is always the best inspirational reference for interior design as both worlds are engaging their creative minds, and are seeing and hearing the same things from social media forces and runways. We are in tune with each other! If I had to limit my interiors shopping to one city it would be… Japan. As they’re willing to spend a lot on R&D to improve their products. Their furniture, architecture and interior products are more practical and usable. My dream project would be… The next one. I’m always looking to achieve the impossible in my next project. Life should be full of adventures. The one place I wish I’d designed myself… The Olympic Aquatic Centre in Beijing.
Steve Leung Founder, Steve Leung Designers
One of the world’s leading designers, Steve Leung set up his practice back in 1987 and has since led over 1,000 projects including Hong Kong’s Gonpachi restaurant, Beijing’s Twelve Space residential development and the Hyatt Regency in Sha Tin.
What design elements make a happy home? There is no absolute standard. I think when designing a home it is more important to put myself in the shoes of the end users and create a lifestyle that suits them most instead of trying to affect their behavior.
What does good design mean to you? I believe the main purpose of design is to serve a function or to improve people’s quality of life. It has to answer the needs of the target users.
And a stylish restaurant? I would say the design and lighting create an ambience for the restaurant. Textures and materials can enrich sensory enjoyment.
Who are your major influences in the world of design? I’m influenced by my uncles, one of whom is an architect and the other an amateur painter.
Are there any notable trends we should look out for in the next few months? Intelligent homes are getting more popular thanks to the rapid development of technology. The demand for sustainable design will also increase.
How much do you incorporate sustainability into your work? Eco-friendly and sustainable design is a much-discussed topic for designers. To me, using durable, long-lasting materials is one of the ways to incorporate sustainability into design. The most important lesson I have learnt in design is… I extract valuable lessons with each project. Each brings its own set of unique constraints and challenges – this is how we evolve and progress as humans and what keeps my mind active.
If I had to limit my interiors shopping to one city it would be… Italy. It is a world trendsetter and leader in design, and has produced some of the best furniture designers in the world. The biggest faux-pas in interior design? I believe one of the main purposes of design is to improve quality of life. So, there is a big problem when designers forget that. My dream project would be… My own boutique hotel, maybe in China, amidst good scenery. R
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What inspires you today? I usually get inspiration from everyday life. Observation is one way to accumulate daily experience and stimulate inspiration.
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Making an Impression
Making an Impression Corporate lawyer-turned curator Douglas So discusses his latest project, the F11 Photographic Museum in Happy Valley WORDS BY CATHERINE SHAW
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When did you first discover a passion for photography? I liked taking photographs as a kid but it was in 1997 that my wife gave me my first Leica as a birthday present. Friends then introduced me to Magnum Photos [a photographic co-operative owned by its photographermembers] and ever since that day I’ve been hooked. Why focus on photojournalism? There are very few places in Hong Kong where you can see the very best of photojournalism. There are exhibitions from time to time but there really isn’t much choice while the galleries are focused on abstract contemporary works. My interest is much more traditional, like the works of photographer Robert Capa who founded Magnum Photos in Paris with David Seymour, Henri Cartier-Bresson, George Rodger and William Vandivert. I wanted to create a place in Hong Kong where I could share their work. Why is it about that genre that fascinates you? It’s not just about showing great photographic works. These photographers are the sort of people who, when something
happens in the world, were the first to rush there. I find them fascinating because of their courage and vision and for their ability to capture images in a candid way. That is classic photojournalism. You had a successful career as an executive director of The Hong Kong Jockey Club. How difficult was the move from the corporate world to running your own private museum? Before studying law I studied history and over the last few years at the Jockey Club I was involved in a number of heritage projects where I learnt a lot about building conservation. I grew up in the Happy Valley area so I had noticed this building very early on and I always thought it was a beautiful structure. I couldn’t believe when it came up for sale two years ago. I understood that it already had planning permission for a 25-floor building - I knew I had to act fast as its redevelopment potential would mean that others might demolish it. The past year it has been difficult to fit everything into my schedule so I decided to focus on this and left the Jockey Club in September. The wonderful thing is that if you work on something you are passionate about, you never feel tired. Some people still do not regard photography as an art form. How do you plan to overcome that issue? Photography offers something that paintings and sculptures cannot provide. The type I want to bring to F11 is something that anyone can walk in and immediately understand. As a medium it is very interesting as it can depend on how you view an image. Stuart Franklin’s photograph of the man standing in front of the tank in Tiananmen Square, for instance, represents different things
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new private museum dedicated to photography masters, from the likes of Henri Cartier-Bresson to David Douglas Duncan, marked its opening in September with an exhibition by the legendary American photographer Elliott Erwitt. The Reserve met with Hong Kong-based founder, Douglas So, to talk about his dramatic career shift from corporate lawyer and executive director of one of the largest charities in Hong Kong to private museum owner and curator.
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to both sides. On the one hand it is seen as a symbol of someone who was not afraid of death, while at the same time the Chinese regime says: “Look, we did not run over this man.” You could have located the museum anywhere – why in an historic building? I decided not to go somewhere that simply offered a cheaper or bigger space because I believe it is about the whole experience. The first two floors are dedicated to exhibition space while the third floor is home to your collection of Leica cameras and rare books. How do the three elements interact with the art deco architecture? I see it as an integrated one-stop shop to promote photography as an art form and provide access to books and education. We have one of the best Magnum book collections with over 1,000 titles of major works published by Magnum photographers over the years. Most are signed 1st editions. All are available as a digital archive so even the most fragile ones will always be available. It is equally important to me that the building encourages other private efforts in heritage conservation. I want to show that there is a way to revitalise a building like this. What has been the greatest lesson you take away from this renovation project? We need to put in the time and effort to focus on the details. Researching the story of the building was fascinating as we discovered the government had specified that all the buildings on this street had to be Western style. We worked with a professional team and brought in new technology like injecting steel structural beams to prevent future corrosion. There is nothing like this in Hong Kong so we had to experiment with different interior designs to find the best use of space and to think about the visitor experience. Like any renovation you have a picture in your mind about what it will look like when everything comes together but we are always thinking of how we can improve. What made you choose Elliott Erwitt for the inaugural exhibition? I met him last year in New York and I was very impressed by his photographs. He started very young in the 1950s after his military service and if you look at his works he has covered almost every country in the world. I love his work in the sense that it not only captures a very interesting moment in time but is full of humanity and humour. He is still very active as a photographer, full of life and ambition – he says he wants to produce a book a year! R
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ELLIOTT ERWITT ‘BEST IN SHOW’ EXHIBITION The 86-year-old photographer Elliott Erwitt is responsible for some of the most iconic images of the 20th century from a grief-stricken Jacqueline Kennedy at the funeral of her husband, President John F. Kennedy and Richard Nixon’s meeting with Nikita Khrushnev in Moscow in 1959, to his playful commentary on New York’s street life. Curated by Douglas So and Magnum photography specialist India Dhargalkar, F11 Photographic Museum’s inaugural ‘Best in Show’ presents 50 original photographs from Erwitt’s personal collection. The exhibition will also coincide with the launch of Erwitt’s newest book, ‘Regarding Women’, which includes never before seen images. September 18 - November 30 *Viewings by appointment F11 Photographic Museum, 11 Yuk Sau Street, Happy Valley. www.f11.com
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For Goodness Sake
For Goodness Sake The Good Rock Foundation
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INTERVIEW BY SOPHIE FORSYTH
acqui Shurr founded The Good Rock Foundation organisation in 1997 after adopting her daughter, Abigail, from China’s Xinjiang province. The Hong Kong and UK registered charity transforms the lives of orphaned and abandoned children and young people in China.
What inspired you to set up The Good Rock Foundation? My husband and I wanted to add to our family but not necessarily in the conventional way. After we saw publicity about conditions in Chinese orphanages, it took moments for our emotions to kick in. Whilst adopting Abigail, we had the rare opportunity to step inside a state orphanage in China and we realised they needed more help. Abigail’s
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Chinese name ‘Yan’ means rock and her birthday was Good Friday, hence the inspiration for our foundation’s name! What are the biggest issues facing China’s orphans, and how does The Good Rock Foundation assist in overcoming them? Orphans with a disability face the biggest challenge because they are still set apart from society and are often not trained in vocational or life skills. This massively impacts their ability to be capable, connected members of the local community. We have invested in developing special education and vocational training programs, such as our bakery project, to help each recipient reach the best of their individual ability. Training to be a baker or learning other practical skills stops young adults with disabilities languishing in institutions.
How do you decide what to focus on? When we first began in 1997 our focus was to improve conditions for children who were suffering from neglect; orphanages could not afford to train therapists, buy equipment or even perform surgery or give medicine to children with complex medical needs. By setting up local foster care, supporting feeding programs and finding the best quality medical care, Good Rock was able to help improve child welfare. Thankfully the Chinese government has now invested heavily in orphanages, there is improved medical welfare and perhaps most importantly a growing sense of compassion and dignity. What part does Hong Kong play in The Good Rock Foundation? Our family moved to Hong Kong in 2004, and Good Rock became a locally registered organisation. The move took me nearer to the Mainland and gave me the ability to make short, frequent trips to our projects at a time of growth. Though we have now left, we love Hong Kong and return often to continue our communication of the work we are doing. What challenges have you met in setting up a charity in China? Fundraising is an ongoing challenge. Also we work in a sensitive region of China where unrest is frequent and unpredictable. Therefore if we are looking to recruit specialists, it’s hard to find people willing to settle and work there. Often, I am asked if it is difficult working so closely with the government, but we have always been transparent and relations are cordial. I believe Good Rock brings a lot of goodwill to Xinjiang. What has been your proudest moment with the foundation? There are too many to choose just one but I am proud that Good Rock established some of the first foster care programs in China and has continued to be on the cutting edge of advocating older orphans with disabilities. Also, I just melt when some of the children call me English Mamma! What would you like The Good Rock Foundation to achieve over the next 10 years? For our special education and vocational programs to grow and be replicated, not only in orphanages but in communities, too. We are also keen to reach local families who struggle to look after their disabled children, in a bid to prevent abandonment. R
Thanks to the generosity of members, The Reserve raised valuable proceeds at the recent Best of Britain event to help The Good Rock Foundation continue its work. For more information about the foundation, visit good-rock.org
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HIGH HORSE Liu Shilai, the number one ranked polo player in China, is among a new generation of riders and entrepreneurs behind the latest wave of equestrianism in China WORDS BY NAN-HIE IN
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iu Shilai, China’s very own polo star, has accomplished plenty in the field as the number one-ranked player. Off the field, he’s trying to emulate a different kind of success as the country’s de facto spokesman of the game. His mission is to educate and inspire more Chinese citizens to saddle up to the sport. “Initially, as a player, I didn’t truly understand the nature of polo - I only enjoyed it as a sport. Now, I hope to show the world the potential of Chinese players and their teamspirit and bravery to foreign elites,” he says. “I am not only willing to train and cultivate polo to Chinese elites, but to encourage and share the stories of every team player that represents China and polo.” The story between China and polo is mesmerising itself. Few people associate the most populous nation with horseplay but many do not realise the game has a long legacy on the Mainland. Originally from Persia in 5th century BC, the ‘sport of kings’ spread to Asia via the Silk Road. It flourished in India where British troops caught onto it in the 19th century. Since then, Britain has been widely credited with popularising the game internationally. Polo reached China too, but its fate galloped down a
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different track. It was immensely popular during the Tang Dynasty, for instance. Fast forward to more recent millennia, and the sport was stomped out amid the political instability of the Cultural Revolution in the 1960s and 70s. Only in recent years has a perfect storm of factors helped restore polo culture in China. There’s the nation’s widely successful economy, which has created countless ultra-affluent individuals with a ravenous appetite for luxury pursuits. Increasingly, the wealthy are picking up the mallet for a chukka or two. Additionally, high-profile Chinese polo players like Liu have had an immediate impact on fuelling interest in the game. But the athlete has learnt that raising the sport’s profile in China is no easy task, especially since he opened the Tang Polo Club in Beijing in 2010. “In the very beginning, I wanted to create my own private polo manor which is common enough in the UK and the USA, but I realised there were not enough players to form teams.” He adds, “Promoting polo in China then became my endeavour.” The sportsman has been organising more and more matches to do just that, including the China Polo Open Tournament. Staged four times each year at the Tang
“I hope to show the world the potential of Chinese players”
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“There may be few polo venues in China but the speed at which they have been established in recent years is extraordinary”
MAKE IT HAPPEN The Super Nations Cup in Tianjin runs from 1- 5th October; teams from around the world will be competing at the tournament. Visit supernationscup.com.
LEARN THE BASICS Four riders are on each team; all eight players, armed with a mallet to hit the ball, try to score in the opposing team’s goal. Traditionally the game is composed of eight ‘chukkas,’ each round lasting seven minutes. At half-time it’s customary for spectators to join the field for the ‘stomping of the divots’ (pressing the mounds kicked up by the horses back into the grass).
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Polo Club, this is one of the few polo events in China that lures top teams from around the globe to compete for the championship. Despite such efforts, the athlete concedes the country has a long way to go before polo reaches mainstream popularity. “There are only 20,000 to 30,000 players in the world, most of whom are royalty and leading business entrepreneurs. As a result, it is difficult for polo to be popular and available to the general public.” He adds that the challenging game itself has posed difficulties, since it requires “a special connection with the horse as well as demanding physical and mental attributes.” To excel in equestrianism, one needs precision, team spirit and balance, he says. Greater training for professional players is needed, too. At Tang Polo Club, he has been bringing polo talents to China such as coaches and horse veterinarians from Argentina, a country with leading polo development. Elsewhere, the Chinese have more opportunities to appreciate the sport professionally or casually, thanks to social polo events emerging in China. British Polo Day, established by former British Calvary officers, is the most high-profile example, staged all over the world at over a dozen destinations so far. Through polo, its ambition is to spread British heritage internationally whilst offering attendees a chance to network since the event is often filled with top echelons of society and more. The fourth edition of the event in China was being held in Beijing as The Reserve went to print and its CEO and co-founder Ed Olver told us he was stunned by the rapidity of polo’s development at this destination. “There is more investment in polo in China than anywhere else in the world, ever.” He adds, “There may be few polo venues in China but the speed at which they have been established in recent years is extraordinary.”
Olver recalls how in 2005 there was one venue in China - the Sunny Times Polo Club by property tycoon Xia Yang. Today, he can count eight venues including Tianjin Goldin Metropolitan Polo Club, Nine Dragons Hill Polo Club in Shanghai, Tang Polo Club in Beijing and the Reignwood Polo Club also in the capital. The executive believes polo will broaden further by educating and communicating in ways that haven’t been done in the past. “The ability to reach the right audience is key,” says Olver. He embraces new technology such as drones and high-speed cameras to cover and communicate the sport to viewers. Better understanding of polo is needed too. “Sadly, polo still has baggage from the past about being associated only with elites, as if it’s just about fashion or socialising.” Those connotations have hindered polo from reaching a larger audience, but as a new generation polo company, he hopes to change that. R THE
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INSIDERS Brew Masters
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MEMBER NEWS Treat your taste buds to a cup of the world’s most exclusive coffee. Members enjoy direct access without the hassle of going to auction as well as preferential rates when purchasing from Bespoke Beverages. For more information contact: member@thereserve-asia.com
BREW MASTERS The world’s most expensive coffee has a rather unexpected production process, says Richard Hardwick of Bespoke Beverages
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ichard Hardwick and Neil Reilly share over 20 years of experience in the luxury market with expertise in the diamond, gems, watches and luxury travel industry. Together with Ade Makmursyah as their coffee director, they recently launched Bespoke Beverages, producing Kopi Luwak, otherwise known as the most expensive coffee in the world. What exactly is Kopi Luwak? Kopi Luwak or ‘civet coffee’ refers to the seeds of coffee berries once they have been eaten and digested by the Asian palm civet (a type of wild cat). This process reduces acidity and creates a smooth finish revered by experts the world over. How is it produced? On a small plantation in the Gayo region in Sumatra, Indonesia, the beans are hand-collected having been processed by wild civet cats. After many months of combining traditional methods with innovative strategies in washing, drying and sorting the beans as well as a consultation with London’s premier master roaster, the result is an unparalleled coffee.
How does the price per kilo vary from normal coffee? Our Ruby coffee sells for HK$10,000 per kilo and our Diamond coffee sells for HK$50,000 per kilo. They both exceed the world’s highest grading standard for Grade A beans. The beans are hand-collected and triple sorted, a standard not seen anywhere else in the world. Availability for Ruby is limited to less than 1,000-kilo lots annually for private sale. The Diamond ‘Peaberry’ variety is limited to only 100-kilo lots annually. Only 5% of coffee beans produced worldwide are of the Peaberry variety, making it the rarest in the world. How have you improved the local community who work for you in Indonesia? We are committed to supporting the coffee producers of the Gayo region by paying top wages and providing health insurance for both the workers and their families. 10% of our profits are donated back to the Indonesian people each year.
There has been press concerning mass production with battery-caged civets. How do you ensure your production process remains ethical? Unlike everybody else we own our plantation meaning we can 100% guarantee that our luwaks are wild. Our farmers would never cage a luwak, it is alien to them plus, we would never sell caged luwak. We are certified by the Gayo Wild Luwak Association which is the official Indonesian certification. We are also working on establishing a global certification and have suggested that our plantation be the standard. Where can one buy this coffee? We do not have any retail points. Our coffee is available in a select few hotel and restaurant locations in London and soon across the globe.You can only purchase our coffee directly if we have met you, you have met one of our partners or been to one of our events where we give you a coffee bean in a diamond case with a special code on the back. That code is your passport into our world and without it you can’t purchase the coffee. R
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How rare is this coffee? We are the only company in the world that can 100% guarantee that it comes from a single source plantation. We only produce 1100 kilos a year. The quality of our coffee is equivalent to a flawless diamond. Every order is handdelivered to wherever you are in the world by a master coffee brewer, along with all the equipment required and a lesson in how to make it.
INSIDERS
Just Watch Me
Just Watch Me
Custom watchmaker Grieb & Benzinger on creating truly individual timepieces
T
he word ‘unique’ is horribly overused in the luxury industry, but watchmakers Grieb & Benzinger might well be deserving of the appellation. Led by CEO Georg Bartkowiak, restoration genius Hermann Grieb and engraving master Jochen Benzinger, the Germany-based workshop produces less than 100 watches per year, each one painstakingly created according to the
wishes and specifications of each client, combining antique movements with rare techniques such as hand-skeletonising, hand-engraving and handguilloché as well as classic restoration. The Reserve had a peak at some of the team’s most intricate works and asked Georg to talk us through our favourites. If you are interested in working with Grieb & Benzinger to create your own custom timepiece, contact us at member@thereserve-asia.com
Blue Danube, Platinum Masterpiece
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MEMBER NEWS To begin customising your own unique timepiece or to meet the creative talent behind Grieb & Benzinger, contact: member@thereserve-asia.com
BLUE DANUBE, PLATINUM MASTERPIECE “The Blue Danube was made for a watch connoisseur who was looking for a very personal timepiece to reflect his passion for classical music. He wanted a minute repeater which struck the time on demand with beautiful chimes, along with some additional complications, plus it had to be skeletonised by hand. The resulting watch is based on a gorgeous movement originally made by Patek Philippe for Tiffany in about 1890. The tremendous assembly of complications including a minute repeater and a split-second chronograph is rare in such a small movement and a tribute to historic watchmaking. The detailed restoration of more than 400 components of this movement required intense attention and took more than six months to complete.”
PEARL BLOSSOM, BOUTIQUE LINE
Pearl Blossom, Boutique Line
“Back in 2012, thanks to coverage in a magazine in Dubai, a Russian business woman and passionate watch fan fell in love with our striking skeletonised Blossom watch. It caught her attention because it is the only watch in the world that is completely skeletonised, guilloché and engraved by hand. A few telephone calls and e-mails with our workshop later, and it quickly became clear that this was her new dream watch. She upgraded to a 43mm, 18-karat red gold gents size Blossom, set with 77 diamonds on bezel and lugs. The creamy coloured strap matched perfectly with her favorite Hermès bag!”
BLUE MERIT, PLATINUM MASTERPIECE
Blue Merit, Platinum Masterpiece
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“The Blue Merit was not made for a specific collector – it was a personal project for us to emphasise the 20th anniversary of A. Lange & Söhne’s re-launch in 1994, a landmark in German watch-making and a matter close to our hearts. Based upon an original A. Lange & Söhne caliber, nobody believed this watch could be modified – reason enough for us to show off our abilities! It took 12 months to transform the original timepiece into its final breathtaking form, using our full attention and experience. With its solid 41mm platinum case in typical house style, the Blue Merit is another unique collector’s item.” R
INSIDERS
Kristina Blahnik
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BUILDING BLAHNIK Manolo Blahnik’s niece Kristina on how her background as an architect has aided her recent work for the famed shoe designer WORDS BY CATHERINE SHAW
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ex and the City’s Carrie Bradshaw may have made Manolo Blahnik a household name but more recently it has been another stylish woman who has put the iconic brand back on the must-have list of fashionistas around the world. The Reserve talked to the ultraglamorous Kristina Blahnik about how her training as an architect has helped transform her uncle’s London-based firm into a global industry and of the challenges of retaining integrity in today’s fashion industry.
What is the main quality you judge a shoe design by? Creativity and fantasy. Manolo’s mind always impresses me. After 40 years he still has so many new ideas. He is inspired by books, films, art – everything that surrounds him. His designs are an outcome of his dreams. The fantasy element is one of things I admire the most. For example, the ‘Locka’ shoe from the AW14 collection was inspired by Phillip II. There is always a poetic narrative behind each shoe. Having said that, fantasy is not everything. The balance and proportion of the shoe has to be perfect and without quality and comfort you have nothing.
You now have stores in more than 30 countries. What has been the greatest challenge in expanding the Manolo Blahnik brand? It’s not really been about expansion as such, but about optimising the essence of what Manolo stands for, which is quality, creativity, integrity and modesty. In this day and age it appears that many brands are driven by numbers and performance targets. We measure success in terms of the comfort, beauty and joy that we bring to people.
Manolo Blahnik had no formal training in shoe-making. How does he translate his creative vision into a workable pattern? Manolo first sketches the shoes on a sketch pad or napkin, receipt or any other piece of paper he can get his hands on! That happens as soon as he gets an idea for a shoe. After that, he draws the pattern onto a wooden last covered by a ‘chemise’. Then the patterns are technically transferred by the modelistas in our factories in Italy.
How does your training as an architect help when working within the world of shoes? Shoes are basically small buildings. The aesthetic and technical principles of structure and proportion apply to both so the skill sets I learnt as an architect have translated themselves into the job I do today. Of course I can probably spot a weakness in a heel lot faster than someone else, but I deal with many other aspects of the business.
What are your thoughts on comfort and support versus style? Style should never ever come at the expense of comfort. Why anyone would dismiss comfort is beyond me! The two go together hand in hand. We do a lot of trials and fittings to ensure that the shoes fit perfectly and that the heels are stable and will stand the test of time. A shoe is like a little building, the idea can be great, but if the foundations are wrong and the execution is not perfect, it will not be sound. THE
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INSIDERS
Kristina Blahnik
“A shoe is like a little building, if the foundations are wrong and the execution is not perfect, it will not be sound”
Manolo Blahnik is said to be fascinated by films, from where do you take your aesthetic inspiration? Manolo has possibly seen every film that has ever been made! He loves spending time watching all kinds of movies and he watches his favourites again and again. But that is not his only source of inspiration. It can come from books, exhibitions, paintings and places. In some ways I am similar, there is not one, singular thing that inspires me, ideas primarily come from spaces, movement and three-dimensional objects such as sculptures. As far as buildings go, I always find the quasi-sculptural pavilions built at the Serpentine in London a fascinating statement about architecture and design. They are experiential and they leave you with a memory. So many buildings have nothing to say. What is your favourite shoe style? My favourite Manolo Blahnik shoe ever is Lara. It was first created in 1997. I like how it is structured and its shape - so simple and elegant. From the current AW14 collection it would be Encajada. It is a statement shoe without doing anything too dramatic. I love the tailored aesthetic. The majority of my wardrobe is monochrome, so it taps into all my sensibilities. How much of a role do you play in influencing the interior designs we see in the stores? I am very much involved; from the concept stage all the way to completion. The world of Manolo is a very eclectic place. It will never be formulaic.
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A number of your stores have been sporting a fresh new look. What is behind the design concept? The branding is not defined by a look, but by a mood and a collage of its location. Globally, you will see that all of our stores look very different. For example, the Hong Kong Elements store design concept drew inspiration from Chinese weaving and handicrafts, using thin strips of bamboo to create elegantly contoured surfaces that are strong in structure, texture and colour variation. Each white or grey oak strip is woven in and out of a bronze grid, onto which projecting shelves are attached to hold individual pairs of shoes. Is there a new direction that you would like to explore within the company? Manolo is a shoe designer and we have always focused on that although we have previously collaborated with companies like Liberty with limited edition scarves, notebooks and tote bags. With Lane Crawford we also did a few limited items with Globetrotter and other items like glasses, gloves and stationery. These collaborations were fun, but there is no specific direction or an agenda to move outside of shoes as the main product. The one thing we are currently trying to tell the world more is that Manolo has been doing men’s shoes for 40 years. What is coming up next? We have a few projects coming up, namely Manolo’s new book next year. We can’t release any details away at the moment, but it will be very surprising! R
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Join us for this inaugural event and taste over 600 f ine wines from the world’s top producers
29 NOVEMBER 2014 THE RITZ-CARLTON SHANGHAI, PUDONG PRODUCERS INCLUDE:
–Arnaldo Caprai
–Château Giscours
–Craggy Range
–La Jota
–Santa Rita
–Avignonesi
–Château Haut-Bailly
–d’Arenberg
–Luce della Vite
–Sierra Cantabria
–Bagorri
–Château La Fleur Morange
–Domaine Baron de Rothschild
–Luis Cañas
–Silver Heights
–Baron Philippe de Rothschild SA
–Château Lafon Rochet
–Domaine Clarence Dillon Wines
–Maison Louis Jadot
–St Hugo
–Barone Ricasoli
–Château Malartic-Lagravière
–Domaine de Chevalier
–Marchesi Antinori
–Symington Family Estates
–Beronia
–Chateau Montrose
–Dominio de Pingus
–Marco Felluga
–Taylors
–Biondi Santi
–Château Musar
–Donnafugata
–Marques de Caceres
–Tenuta dell’Ornellaia
–Bodega Norton
–Château Pichon Longueville
–El Esteco
–Mas de Daumas Gassac
–Tenuta Sette Ponti
–Emilio Moro
–Moët Hennessy Estates & Wines
–Torres
–Bodegas Muga
Comtesse de Lalande
–Brancaia
–Château Pouget
–Fattoria Nittardi
–Montes Wines
–Vega Sicilia
–Catena Zapata
–Château Prieuré-Lichine
–Ferngrove
–O Fournier
–Villa Maria
–Ceretto
–Château Rauzan-Ségla
–Fontodi
–Penfolds
–Viña Errazuriz
–Champagne Bollinger
–Chateau Talbot
–Gonzalez Byass
–Pio Cesare
–Viña San Pedro Tarapacá.
–Château Loudenne
–Château Valandraud
–Grace Vineyard
–Planeta
–Weingut Bründlmayer
–Château Calon-Ségur
–Codorniu
–Howard Park Wines
–Quinta Nova
–Yalumba
–Château Canon
–Col d’Orcia
–Inglenook
–Rioja Alta
–Zenato
–Château d’Issan
–Concha y Toro Fine Wine Portfolio
–Inniskillin
–Robert Mondavi Winery
–Château Fourcas Hosten
–Cordero di Montezemolo
–Kir-Yianni
–Salentein
Book today at www.decantershanghai.com
Inspiration HOW TO SPEND IT
Bill Bensleydesigned The Siam is an interior fan’s dream Ultimate Pools, p. 146
Reserve Me We’ve tried them – so should you. Where to eat, drink, stay and spa. > >
SRI PANWA, PHUKET
Occupying the whole of Cape Panwa on the island’s Southeastern peninsula, Phuket’s boutique Sri Panwa resort features lavish private villas each boasting panoramic views of the ocean, an infinity pool, a Jacuzzi bathtub and a steam room. If you can bear to leave your luxury retreat book yourself a treatment at the resort’s Cool Spa before settling in to watch the sun go down at Baba Nest – tropical cocktail in hand. sripanwa.com
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THE SUN SIYAM IRU FUSHI, MALDIVES > Set within the Noonu Atoll in the Maldives, The Sun Siyam Iru Fushi relaunched earlier this year after a face-lift. The resort now features 221 villas, 70 of which sit on stilts atop the turquoise waters of the Indian Ocean. Step off your private seaplane and into a world of diving, fine dining and relaxation. thesunsiyam.com/irufushi
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THE PENINSULA, PARIS
Fans of The Peninsula Hong Kong will soon be able to rest their heads in familiar surroundings at the newly opened outpost in Paris. Close to the Arc de Triomphe and the Champs-ElysÊes, the hotel includes some of the largest rooms in the city, with five suites featuring private rooftop gardens. And rest easy die-hard fans – the limousine fleet includes that special signature Peninsulagreen Rolls-Royce. paris.peninsula.com
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< THE WOODS, HONG KONG Hollywood Road’s latest concept cocktail bar is owned and managed by three talented sisters who ensure every cocktail they serve up in the atmospheric basement space is made with artisanal liquor and fresh, seasonal ingredients. The Prix-Fixe Bar features a set 4-course menu of savoury and sweet drinks, all paired with complementary small dishes. thewoods.hk
BULGARI SPA, LONDON > The Bulgari Hotel is one of the most lavish hotels in the UK capital, with neighbours including the Candy brothers’ One Hyde Park residential development, Harrod’s and Hyde Park. When you next fly into the city on business, book a treatment in the hotel’s underground spa, arguably the very best in town, with a large indoor pool, 11 treatment rooms, and a private spa suite for two. bulgarihotels.com
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INSPIRATION Reserve Me
< CAS GASI, IBIZA Europe’s bohemian party island takes on a much more chilled vibe over the winter months and there’s no better spot to enjoy it from than the beautiful Cas Gasi hotel. Surrounded by orange groves and pine forests, and with a steady influx of celebrity guests (Kate Moss and Richard Gere among them), it’s the perfect place to recharge after a hectic summer. The hotel produces all of its own fruits and vegetables which explains the remarkable food on offer. casgasi.com
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>
THE MARK RESTAURANT BY JEAN-GEORGES, THE MARK HOTEL, NEW YORK CITY
Satisfying cravings for simple and eclectic palates alike, JeanGeorges Vongerichten has combined his signature seasonings with subtly innovative European classics to create a menu befitting the restaurant’s coveted address on the city’s Upper East Side. Located in the 1927 landmark building that was completely reimagined in 2009, everything about this luxury hotel speaks to old-world comfort and avant-garde design. In a city with an abundance of dining options, the clientele here is predominately locals so you know it’s good. themarkrestaurantnyc.com
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< BELMOND, SOUTHEAST ASIA Travelling through Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand and Laos on a variety of routes across the year, Belmondâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Eastern & Oriental Express offers a memorable way to tick off your favourite Asian destinations. Read a book on the opendecked Observation Carriage, enjoy fresh local delicacies in the Dining Car or relax in your private cabin as you enjoy the thrill of exploring new lands by train. belmond.com
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INSPIRATION Defying Gravity
DEFYING GR AVITY Can’t make it into space just yet? Luckily you can now experience weightlessness a little closer to home. WORDS BY ZOE BELHOMME
I
t’s not just that iconic, crescent view of earth that makes people want to head into the unchartered territories of space, it’s also the thrill of breaking the shackles of gravity and free-floating. Now, taking a break from Newton’s laws is easier and more affordable than ever as Swiss Space System (S3) announces its first commercial zero gravity flights out of Asia starting from January 2015. The once-in-a-lifestyle experience begins with a thorough safety briefing on the ground where passengers are run through what they can expect on the flight, before being taken up to a height of 34,000 feet in a
VIP ROOM 12 PAX max 46.7 m2 8.8 m length 98.1 m3
PREMIUM ZONE 28 PAX max 53 m2 10 m length 112 m3
modified new generation Airbus aircraft. Over the course of the 90-minute flight, specially trained pilots perform aerobatic maneuvers known as parabolas to give passengers 15 individual periods of weightlessness each lasting between 20 and 25 seconds. While defying gravity passengers enjoy the full effect of the absence of the earth’s natural gravitational pull and can do as they please, from flying around the cabin to performing somersaults and experimenting with a variety of objects and liquids. Depending on your budget you can take your pick between the party zone, the premium zone or the VIP room
PARTY ZONE 40 PAX max 77 m2 14.5 m length 162 m3
A modified Airbus offers three zones of travel: Party Zone : €2,000 per passenger | Premium Zone : €5,000 per passenger | VIP Room : €50,000 (up to 12 VIPs) THE
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MEMBER NEWS Members of The Reserve will be among the first to be able to book their Zero G experience out of Asia starting from January 2015. For inside information on schedules and availability, contact: member@thereserve-asia.com
Each 90-minute flight consists of 15 parabolas, each providing between 20 and 25 seconds of total weightlessness.
– which holds up to 12 passengers at a total cost of around HK$535,000. Passengers who book the premium zone or VIP room also receive a unique boarding pass: a limited edition Breitling S3 ZeroG chronograph, only available to those who experience zero gravity.You even get to take home the suit worn during the flight as a memento and reminder that you have experienced something that few other mortals will in their lifetime. With limited flight dates announced across Asia in January, February and March next year, it is likely that seats will sell out fast – the website started taking sales as The Reserve went to print. Richard Joye, vice president, S3
Asia explains, “Even before we publically announced the launch we have seen great interest from Asian consumers around the region who are looking to experience the exhilaration of zero gravity weightlessness before any of their friends or colleagues.” Richard also adds that safety shouldn’t be a concern to people, “these flights are very safe and we have taken every precaution to ensure the well-being of our passengers. The main space agencies (NASA, ESA, Roscosmos and JAXA) have been operating them for several decades and our modified aircraft is much more precise than other platforms presently available.” R
YOURS TO KEEP In addition to keeping their personal flight suits, Premium Zone and VIP Room passengers will each receive a limited edition Breitling S3 ZeroG chronograph timepiece, available exclusively to those who have personally experienced this ZeroG thrill.
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EXCLUSIVE REPRESENTATION AIRBUS ACJ 318 ELITE s/n 4878 VP-BKG 2012 MODEL AVAILABLE FOR IMMEDIATE DELIVERY • Unique Opportunity • 3rd Qtr 2012 Completion • Delivery hours only • Exterior is base white and can be customized prior to delivery • Largest cabin-cross-section in its class and superbly equipped for intercontinental travel • View complete specifications at: aviatrade.aero/sales_2012_A318.asp • www.aviatrade.aero
www.aasia.cn
Contact: Philip Rushton, President, 1-908-696-1174 Office, 1-908-578-8080 Mobile, 1-908-696-1175 Fax
• THIS AIRBUS WILL BE AVAILABLE FOR PRIVATE VIEWING APPOINTMENTS AT THE ABACE SHOW IN SHANGHAI 15-17TH APRIL • PLEASE CONTACT AVIATRADE TO MAKE ARRANGEMENTS
NEW YORK
LOS ANGELES
HONG KONG
BEIJING Cabin-Class Consulting....First Class Service
INSPIRATION Nautical & Nice
Nautical &Nice
Could a floating luxury apartment be the next place you call home? Dominique Afacan steps aboard The World to find out.
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minds. There’s doubtlessly something pretty special about travelling to all these exotic ports of call and then simply returning home each night to sleep in your own bed. All without having to pack and unpack. On land, travel is a far cry from the flag-carrying group tours one might expect. In its place are customised experiences created according to the personal preferences of residents. Each year several expeditions are conducted that give residents an in-depth look at a given region. Three are planned in 2015 including West Africa, Greenland and Antarctica; the latter offering a 2-week adventure in December through icebergs, glacier caves and snow-capped mountains. “When we were on board last year, Howard Rosenbloom came along,” recalls one resident excitedly. “He’s one of the leading authorities on marine mammals. We were able to have lunch with him one-on-one.” Beyond the destinations, the ship itself offers all the comforts of a 5-star hotel. Dining choices cover everything from hamburgers at the Poolside Grill to sushi in East, complete with Christofle silver-tipped chopsticks. There’s even a 12,000-bottle wine cellar. The culinary team often ventures ashore to visit farmers’ markets, frequently with interested residents in tow, and local guest chefs and winemakers are
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“T
he thing that I like the most about my apartment is the fact that it moves,” says one resident aboard The World, the largest privately owned residential yacht on earth. And therein lies one of the greatest pleasures of owning a property on board this busy ship which, since its launch in 2002, has visited more than 900 ports in 130 countries. This year alone, residents have been to China, Japan, Philippines, Thailand and more. And all without leaving home. A total of 130 families collectively own this ship, paying between US$1m and US$13m for the pleasure of a one-of-a-kind lifestyle and their very own luxury pad-on-sea. It sails non-stop around the globe – on an itinerary that owners select together. Every night, no matter where they are in the world, residents can return to their apartments on board to unwind after a day’s adventure. “Sometimes, I feel like two different people,” jokes another resident, “one minute you’re an explorer, wearing muddy boots and then you come back and everyone on the ship takes care of you.” Living on a ship may not be everybody’s idea of fun, but The World might just succeed in changing a few
INSPIRATION Nautical & Nice
“One minute you’re an explorer wearing muddy boots and then you come back and everyone on the ship takes care of you”
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MEMBER NEWS For priority notification on the rare occasion that a luxury residence becomes available, or if you are interested in joining events and activites featuring The World, contact: member@thereserve-asia.com
Find out more about ownership at aboardtheworld.com or call +1 (954) 538-8449. R
COULD 2015 BE YOUR YEAR? The ship’s 2015 itinerary, including 15 new ports such as Colombo, Sri Lanka and Bazaruto Island, Mozambique, will begin in Singapore before heading off to Kuala Lumpur, Phuket, Penang, and several stops in India. The Maldives and Seychelles are followed by an extended voyage throughout the Mediterranean, the UK, Iceland, Canada and a journey down the US east coast. As year-end beckons, the ship calls on the Caribbean, a transit through the Panama Canal and visits to Colombia, Ecuador, Peru and Chile.
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regularly invited aboard to prepare special themed meals with wine pairings. Activity-wise, there are putting greens, a golf simulator and a pro who leads shore-side excursions to famed courses like Kauri Cliffs in New Zealand and more unusual spots like Nuuk Golf Club in Greenland, set against a backdrop of icebergs. The World also features the only full-size tennis court at sea, plus it doubles as a cricket field. There’s a swimming pool, fitness centre with full-time personal trainer, library (with 4,000 books, no less), cinema, boutique and billiards. You can even get oxygen treatments for anti-aging in the spa. The whole package is decadently adventurous yet unreservedly convenient. It’s little wonder that the moment an apartment becomes available for resale, it’s snapped up almost instantly.
INSPIRATION
Choose your Moment
Choose your
MOMENT The Reserve reveals the most exciting timepieces on display at this year’s Watches & Wonders
Now in its second year, Hong Kong’s very own haute horlogerie exhibition, Watches & Wonders, has already become a smash hit with the region’s luxury watch fans. The Reserve goes behind the scenes to reveal the most eagerly-awaited timepieces on display.
BAUME AND MERCIER Promesse 10166 The Swiss watchmaker launches a new women’s collection by the name of Promesse. We love the Promesse 10166 which features 61 sparkling diamonds, black guilloché dial and an alligator black strap.
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PANERAI Radiomir 1940 Available in three different precious metals (red gold, white gold and platinum), this watch boasts the simple, elegant lines developed by Panerai back in the 1940s. The platinum version, with its stunning ivory dial, is limited to just 50 pieces.
ROGER DUBUIS Hommage Double Flying Tourbillon with Hand-made GuillochĂŠ in Pink Gold The reinvigorated Hommage collection includes a number of automatic and chronograph models, but the stand-out piece is the Hommage Double Flying Tourbillon, combining traditional and modern craftsmanship to glorious effect.
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INSPIRATION
Choose your Moment
MONTBLANC Montblanc Bohème Pink Gold Date Automatic The new Bohème collection includes jewellery and writing instruments as well as this refined timepiece marrying high complications with feminine design.
VAN CLEEF & ARPELS Midnight Planétarium Poetic Complication Drawing inspiration from historic planetariums, this intricate watch provides a miniature representation of the movement of six planets around the earth. To tell the time, follow the shooting star!
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VACHERON CONSTANTIN Traditionnelle World Time Collection Excellence Platine This incredible watch is limited to just 100 pieces and will join the Collection Excellence Platine, named because of their use of platinum for the case, dial and folding claps. The watch is capable of showing up to 37 time zones, rather than the standard 24 and looks destined to become a collectorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s item.
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INSPIRATION
Choose your Moment
JAEGER-LECOULTRE Master Grande Tradition Grande Complication This extraordinary timepiece features a triple complication consisting of a minute repeater, a flying tourbillon and a zodiac calendar, not to mention 294 baguette-cut diamonds. Only eight pieces will be produced.
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AUDEMARS PIGUET Royal Oak Offshore Tourbillon Chronograph Back in 1993, Audemars Piguet established a new category of sports watch with the Royal Oak Offshore. This year, they present this 50-piece limited edition featuring a Calibre 2897 mechanism and a carbon case with ceramic for the bezel, titanium and ceramic for the push pieces and rubber for the strap.
A. LANGE & SÖHNE Langematik Perpetual A. Lange & Söhne’s first self-winding wristwatch with a perpetual calendar and outsize date gets a makeover with this model, complete with white-gold case, black dial and black crocodile strap. THE
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INSPIRATION
Choose your Moment
CARTIER Pasha de Cartier 42mm Skeleton Dragon Motif This mechanical movement in the shape of a dragon is set with 233 diamonds and features some of the brandâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s characteristic elements, including the serrated screw-down winding crown, adorned with a brilliant-cut diamond, gun screw attachments and an indented bracelet.
PIAGET Emperador Coussin Tourbillon Diamondset Automatic Skeleton Exceptional Piece There are over 2,000 diamonds on this latest timepiece from Piaget, weighing over 44 carats. They sit on the case, the bracelet and the bridges of the ultra-thin skeletonised movement.
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RICHARD MILLE Tourbillon RM 56-02 Sapphire The introduction of the RM 056 Sapphire Tourbillon Split Seconds Chronograph three years ago was a watchmaking milestone, and now there’s the RM 56-02 Sapphire Tourbillon and its new movement, with a transparent case showing every last detail. The RM 56-02 will be released in a limited edition of 10 examples worldwide.
IWC SCHAFFHAUSEN Pilot’s Watch Chronograph Edition ‘The Last Flight’ This impressive timepiece commemorates the last flight of the celebrated pilot Antoine de Saint-Exupéry. The watch’s tobacco colour is matched to the flying suit he used to wear and is available with a crown and push-buttons in titanium, red gold or platinum, each in a limited series.
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INSPIRATION The Hot Ten
THE HOT TEN Our seasonal shopping list has The Reserve’s most discerning members in mind COMPILED BY DOMINIQUE AFACAN
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TURNED ON NASA award-winning aerospace engineer Aleks Bakman designed this turntable especially for dedicated audiophiles. Sonic perfection is achieved through his painstakingly scientific approach, resulting in the elimination of all acoustic distortion. Records have never sounded this pure.
HK$1.2m onedof.com
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INSPIRATION The Hot Ten
POKER FACE Using a piece of a meteorite that crashed to earth a million years ago, along with diamonds, rubies, sapphires and gold, this poker set is a serious piece of kit. The chips alone contain over 200 carats of diamonds and even the dice are made out of fossilised ivory.
From HK$2.3m stahlstockholm.com
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PEDAL POWER Not quite ready for an e-car? How about an e-bike? This new model from Leaos travels up to 16mph and can last up to three hours on a single charge. All chains and wiring are nicely concealed to ensure you look sleek as you cycle and LED lights are neatly integrated into the frame. From
HK$50,000 leaos.com
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INSPIRATION The Hot Ten
CASE CLOSED Each Coleccionista bookcase from luxury furniture designers Boca do Lobo can be personalised, ensuring every one is unique. So pick and choose the drawers and dimensions according to your space and taste and then clutter up as you please. From
HK$300,000 bocadolobo.com
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WORLD FIRST London-based Bellerby & Co Globemakers make the best globes in the business. The Curve sits on an aluminium base constructed by heritage technicians from Aston Martin, allowing for a satisfying 360-degree spin. From
HK$195,000 bellerbyandco.com
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INSPIRATION The Hot Ten
SEA LIFE The Octopus bangle by Swiss jeweller Shawish is crafted in 18-karat rose gold and entirely paved in diamonds, enhanced with pink pearl. Beneath the surface lies a never-been-usedbefore technology that makes the diamonds sparkle and change colour at random.
HK$820,000 shawish.ch
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BOWLED OVER Crafted from sterling silver and 24-karat gold, this Gemini centerpiece bowl is designed by London-based silversmith Grant Macdonald. Only five will be produced, each one taking over 100 man hours to create, using a hammer to work the silver and a 3D printer for the lattice-work.
HK$650,000 grantmacdonald.com
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LEVELLED OUT A collaboration between European accessories designer Lara Bohinc and stone expert Lapicida has resulted in this stunning 4-storey table in varying shades of marble and brass. Only 10 are available. From
HK$310,000 lapicida.com
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GET MOBILE For a picnic with added punch, bring along this special edition compact trunk containing a cocktail kit to mix a mean martini.
Price on demand goyard.com
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UNDER COVER This intricate jewellery box was inspired by the brilliance of a cut diamond and has been handcrafted in solid sycamore. Taking a skilled craftsman over 100 hours to create, no two boxes will be the same and no more than five will ever be made.
HK$125,000 davidlinley.com
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Something missing from your collection? Find it in ours
Purchased direct from the producing estate, we invite you to discover our unrivalled collection of vintages and unique formats. Provenance guaranteed.
www.millesima.com.hk Build your collection with our wine advisor,Antoine Gimbert, who can give a personalized recommendation and answer any questions. T: +33 557 808 813 E: agimbert@millesima.com M: Millesima, 87, quai de Paludate, CS 11691, F33050 Bordeaux, Cedex, France
CAMPAIGN FINANCED WITH THE SUPPORT OF THE EUROPEAN UNION
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INSPIRATION A Drink with Depth
A DRINK WITH DEPTH New single malt, Dark Origins, is inspired by the cunning spirit of Magnus Eunson THE
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INSPIRATION A Drink with Depth
as many first fill sherry casks than in the classic Highland Park 12-year-old resulting in a naturally darker, richer flavour with sherried spice, a chocolate twist and the signature sweet smoke of the Orcadian elixir. Highland Park is one of the few distilleries not using distiller’s caramel so Dark Origins takes its natural colour from the interaction between spirit and cask which Highland Park believes consistently rate amongst the best casks in whisky. Gerry Tosh, Global Marketing Manager, comments, “Cask management is so very crucial to our work at Highland Park. We have strived to raise the bar, working tirelessly in sourcing the right wood and then working and finessing the balances to ensure we create a single malt that is rich, warm and enticing in flavour. Dark Origins sits at the heart of our core range complementing it perfectly – distinct in itself, but always and forever a classic Highland Park.” R
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stablished in 1798 on Orkney, Highland Park is one of the most remote Scotch whisky distilleries in the world. Its range of 12, 15, 18, 21, 25, 30 and 40 year-old single malts is consistently acclaimed by connoisseurs and experts. Its latest offering, Dark Origins, delved into the history books for inspiration. Back in the late 1700s, Magnus ‘Mansie’ Eunson was working tirelessly in his church providing spiritual guidance to the people of Orkney, an archipelago in Northern Scotland. By night, though, a very different Magnus was crafting a sublime spirit from a secret bunker in the hills. For the local population his spirit provided relief from the villainy of the tax collector. Inspired by Magnus, Highland Park has just released Dark Origins, a non-chill filtered single malt. It uses twice
INSPIRATION The Fast Lane
“Rolls-Royce has just turned up to the GT party and my goodness, have they grabbed our attention. The Wraith is simply magnificent.”
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The
Fast Lane After completing a lengthy road trip in Europe, Philip Callow ponders the best car for today’s discerning continental drivers AMG. And don’t get me started on options from Porsche and BMW. Out of all the Euro car makers, the Italians invented this niche and Ferrari owned it. The Mille Miglia road racing days of the 1960s blended together the need for a level of refinement mixed with the reliability and power of a V12 engine, a GT trademark that continues to this day. Ferrari 250 GTO anyone? Interestingly, there are only a handful of proper GT cars on the market. The exquisite Aston Martin Vantage S is one of the most beautiful cars on sale today, demanding attention from the valet at The Landmark over more expensive metal but also has 565bhp lurking should you wish to make time. Despite this though, it has an antiquated gear box and feels, dare I say it, a little mainstream. Rolls-Royce has just turned up to the GT party and my goodness, have they grabbed our attention. The Wraith is simply magnificent. It weighs 2.5 tonnes but is
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was exhausted as I finally took my seat on the plane back to Singapore. I had been endurance racing over the weekend in Spa, Belgium and had made the long drive back to London to catch my flight in my 2010 Porsche 911 GT3 RS. As I sat there I couldn’t help but wonder whether the car I had just left behind was really better suited to a race track than to a transcontinental road trip. What I had really needed was a Gran Turismo, a GT. But which one? The money no object options for today’s continental driver are truly varied. There are super salons and coupés that are just as comfortable blasting to KL on a Friday night as they are in Hong Kong’s rush-hour traffic. Take the new Mercedes CL63 AMG. Gorgeous to look at, a real departure from the safe design of recent times, a hugely impressive engine with 585bhp and more gadgets and driver aids than the Apple store at IFC. But if you are a Mercedes fan, you will also have considered the SLS
INSPIRATION The Fast Lane
as quick to 60mph as a standard 911. But whilst it’s got a V12 (albeit turbocharged) and rear wheel drive, it’s not too subtle and you need a chauffeur as it’s too big to park anywhere. Perhaps it’s too much of a departure from what a GT car should be. The Bentley Continental was a hugely important car for this historical brand and its success has been deserved. But you would have to go for the Speed, which is like a hooligan in the company of the Aston. It’s also got allwheel drive, and proper GT cars don’t. It doesn’t snow in Hong Kong, anyway. And this brings me back to Ferrari, specifically the F12 Berlinetta. All 730bhp of it. It’s a car as comfortable chewing through highway miles one day as it is being driven leisurely on the South Side the next. It also fits into your favourite car park in Central. It’s a shockingly beautiful beast, not as classical as the Aston but more modern, more taught, more compact than its heritage (or competition). It simply blows the others away. But then again, at around US$150,000 (plus options) more than the Aston and the Bentley, so it should. Its ability is subtle, its well appointed cabin a very comfortable place to be. But its intentions are made clear as soon as you twist the key, select race on the magneto and drive with urgency. Oh, and what urgency! Much as I am an aesthete I am also a driver and this is where the F12 really shines. Yes, it should do given its price point, but what other front THE
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“The F12 is more than a GT car, it’s a bona fide supercar”
engine, rear drive car comes close? This is a car that you can pop into IFC in the morning, blast over to Zhuhai over lunch and then drive around ZIC in the afternoon whilst telling people to “Leave me alone, I know what I am doing” on the handsfree. But then again, what would I expect? The F12 is more than a GT car, it’s a bona fide supercar. R
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INSPIRATION Get Chartered
GET
CHARTERED Five reasons why it pays to charter with Riviera Orientale - Yachting Society
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Plenty of Hong Kongers spend their weekends on junks, but French entrepreneur Eric Noyel spotted a gap in the market for something more luxurious. He founded Riviera Orientale inspired by charter fleets he’d seen in the Mediterranean, and set about building his own, offering various sizes and services.
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“For years I dreamt of spending time on super sleek boats and grew frustrated that none were available for rental” says founder Eric Noyel. His company now boasts a 15-boat fleet of Azimut, Numarine, Princess and Sunseekers all ready to cruise guests across the spectacular waters off Hong Kong Island. The latest addition to the fleet is The Hip Nautist, a Numarine 78’, helmed by a French captain direct from Cannes. A 120-footer will arrive next summer.
WHEN ONLY THE BEST WILL DO Rivieria Orientale’s Exceptional Yachts range in length from 100’ to over 150’ and are suitable for state functions and VIPs. These yachts offer the ultimate in size, facilities and luxury in Hong Kong, and are outfitted with maximum levels of security.
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INSPIRATION Get Chartered
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EXPLORE LIKE NEVER BEFORE Out on the ocean and where are you off to? It’s entirely up to you. Having access to your own yacht means you aren’t confined to any particular route or time schedule. “The south of the island is most popular for its calm and convenience,” says Eric. Guests also often moor amongst the other luxurious boats in Millionaire’s Bay or have the captain sail off to Tai Long Wan or Long Ke Beach. With over 260 islands around Hong Kong, there is plenty of choice. The crew can also organise water sports, fishing trips, scuba diving or snorkeling.
SEALING THE DEAL “We always match our client expectations: whether that’s Michelin-starred food and beverage or just a clever choice of locations,” says Eric. The reputation of Riviera Orientale makes them perfect for corporate events or client hosting. The charters have proven to be a big hit among bankers and tycoons wanting a day of networking in relaxing surrounds, and they are prepared to pay for the pleasure. Plus, it’s a refreshing change from yet another dinner or round of golf.
TRY BEFORE YOU BUY For those thinking about taking the plunge and buying their very own superyacht, then chartering is a great way to test out what type of boat will suit their needs and ensure everything has been taken into consideration when it comes to buying. How many cabins will you need? How’s the fuel economy and how does the boat perform in rough seas? Charter is a relatively inexpensive way to try before you buy. R rivieraorientale.com
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INSPIRATION Ultimate Pools
u l t i m a t e p o o l s Feeling the heat? Cool off with our global round-up of the best places to take a dip. WORDS BY DOMINIQUE AFACAN
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BIRAS CREEK RESORT, BRITISH VIRGIN ISLANDS The fact that this resort is only accessible by boat or helicopter makes it all the more exciting. For obvious reasons, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a honeymoon favourite, in no small part thanks to their master suite, featuring this fabulous plunge pool and every other wish-list holiday luxury going. biras.com THE
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THE GRACE SANTORINI, GREECE The Grace Santorini, carved into a clifftop on Greece’s very own volcanic island, boasts this muchphotographed infinity pool – the perfect place to watch a sunset, cocktail in hand. If you’d rather not share the treat, book The Villa, a 2-bedroom suite with a hammam, treatment rooms and your very own pool. gracehotels.com
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THE SIAM, THAILAND This Bill Bensley-designed hotel is set on the banks of Bangkok’s Chao Phraya River. Days are spent grabbing cocktails at Bathers Bar and taking dips into this glorious infinity pool overlooking the water. If you’ve any energy left afterwards, try out the hotel’s very own Muay Thai boxing ring, or have a jig at Deco Bar where jazz tunes entertain blissed-out guests. thesiamhotel.com
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LAUCULA ISLAND, FIJI There are just 25 villas dotted across this sprawling private island resort set up by Dietrich Mateschitz, CEO of Red Bull, and each has its own pool. The glass cube infinity pool, however, is a surreal spectacle well worth leaving your private patch for. Elsewhere in this tropical wonderland you’ll find an 18-hole golf course, an organic farm, five restaurants and a spa – and that’s just for starters. laucala.com
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EVASON MAâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;IN HOT SPRINGS, JORDAN The Six Senses Spa at Evason sits beneath a natural hot spring waterfall at the bottom of a rocky canyon close to the Dead Sea. Spend your days being pampered in the spa then take a dip in this one-of-a-kind pool, taking advantage of the curative properties of the local waters. sixsenses.com
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MARINA BAY SANDS, SINGAPORE This lengthy rooftop pool perched on top of the Marina Bay Sands is a set on a cantilevered platform overhanging the hotel. From the pool, you can gaze over the city and if you have enough puff to make it 150 metres to the far end, you might just get an adrenalin rush as you peer over the side. marinabaysands.com
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BADRUTT’S PALACE HOTEL, SWITZERLAND This grande dame of Swiss hotels is located in the sexy ski resort of St. Moritz. After a day lounging around the hotel’s ‘wet zone’ including this pool with a view, indulge in a Japanese feast in the restaurant run by none other than Nobuyuki Matsuhisa. badruttspalace.com
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GRAND HOTEL TREMEZZO, ITALY This elegant hotel, set in Tremezzo, is just one of a number of spectacular lakeside towns in Italy’s Lake Como. The hotel has three pools, but the best is surely the floating pool, set on the lake just in front of the hotel’s private beach. After a swim, head up to the romantic Champagne Corner Dis-Moi-Oui for a sundowner. grandhoteltremezzo.com
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Shopping Weekender
shopping weekender:
SEOUL
Seoul’s colossal sprawl and the dominance of fast-paced fads can make shopping in South Korea’s capital a challenge, but it is also what makes it so compelling WORDS BY LOREN DANIELLE
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Extravagance in Cheongdam-dong Cheongdam-dong is South Korea’s capital of luxury. Considered the street for art and fashion, the area’s main boulevard is flanked by the world’s most prestigious brands – Gucci, Tory Burch and Givenchy to name a mere few. Just last year Vera Wang Bridal launched its first store in Asia here. Department stores are still considered the epitome of decadence in South Korea and visitors to the neighbourhood usually make a beeline for the Galleria Department Store. Shoppers with a keen eye will be drawn to the Luxury Hall East, with its iridescent veneer created from thousands of glass disks, but
discerning consumers usually head to the more sedate confines of Luxury Hall West which houses the likes of Balmain and Celine as well as a multilingual VIP concierge service. Meander over to nearby Dosan Park for even more appealing architecture. Admire the trendy exteriors of Maison Hermès and the former Ann Demeulemeester store – now Maison Martin Margiela – a moss-covered masterpiece by local design team Mass Studies – while taking in Korean-acquired German company MCM’s Bauhaus-style flagship along the way.
One shop, multiple choice Seoul’s seriously speedy way of life has led to multibrand stores opening up to give consumers a well-curated selection under one roof. These stores are often filled with avant-garde goods by younger designers, a testament to the demands of the city’s voguish residents. Space Mue is one example, a sparsely clad store with soaring ceilings. Here you’ll find the wares of London Fashion Week darlings Mary Katranzou and Meadham Kirchoff, as well as Korean designer Eudon Choi.
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hether you’re people-watching in Dongdaemun, a bustle of ever-changing fast fashion, or browsing exclusive goods in Gangnam, the district now famed for the chart-topping song, chances are you won’t leave this energetic metropolis empty-handed.
INSPIRATION
Shopping Weekender
Boon the Shop, a Shinsegae department store, boasts that it’s a leading luxury product specialist in Korea with a focus on quality over trend. And while it impresses with its excellent range, Milanese import 10 Corso Como is more transfixing for its polka dot décor and medley of lifestyle goods, coffee table books and high-end clothing. The joint project with Samsung’s Cheil Industries offers a biannual VIP styling service for those who notch up a certain purchase history at the Cheongdam or Lotte Avenuel locations. For something a little different, make your way to the bustling European-style Garosugil Street for Bagstage, which incorporates a museum of vintage ‘It’ bags from history. The 10-storey building also features various designer purses never before made available in Korea – Rebecca Minkoffs among them – and a section for emerging, home-grown handbag makers.
Take a seat There’s been a boom in home décor lately in Korea, marked by the number of furniture exhibitions popping up around Seoul. Of these, the most notable is the ongoing display scattered across Zaha Hadid’s stunning Dongdaemun Design Plaza. The architect’s furnishings, as well as others from world-renowned designers, are available to view, test and buy. Meanwhile, a Design Museum in the quirky Hongdae locale is a spacious café-gallery dedicated to displaying antique and contemporary seating, a collection by esteemed furniture designer Kim Myung-Hwan. Handpicked pieces are available for purchase in the showroom. And although the trend for fancy furniture in Seoul leans more towards clean lines, for fixtures with an Eastern flavor, antique homewares can be found tucked amongst Scandinavian-style offerings in the swanky stores of Nonheyon Furniture Street.
“Chances are, you won’t leave South Korea’s energetic metropolis emptyhanded” THE
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Bespoke footwear The bali bali (quick quick) culture of Korea means that Seoul’s residents barely slow down enough to truly enjoy their shopping experiences. This is where Zimmermann & Kim, an independent gentlemen’s shoe retailer, comes in. “What we wanted to do was bring true high-end shoe craftmanship for men to Korea,” said Reno Zimmerman, the boutique’s owner. “We offer niche luxury.” The shop has made slow, steady and satisfying service its modus operandi; if you can’t visit the shop during opening hours, you can make an appointment to browse prestigious brands, get fitted for made-to-order shoes or just revive your current footwear with a plush polish. “We work very closely with the customer.” Zimmerman explained. “For us, it’s really important to have a satisfying interaction.” R
Last Word Can collecting natural history items be a fruitful alternative investment? Definitely, and in recent years the value of these objects has increased dramatically. Investors should consider rarity and beauty to gauge how quickly items might increase in value. Many pieces at Summers Place Auctions are bought by museums, is this auction suitable for independent collectors too? Absolutely. There are many wonderful things that museums don’t actually need, either because they already have an example or because it is something that is not directly relevant to their collection. So there is plenty of opportunity for a private collector. On a more practical note, how should collectors go about storing some of these fragile items? Common sense is the best answer. Obviously there are certain things to be avoided – dampness for instance. Direct sunlight can cause fading in brightly coloured birds, but otherwise normal precautions should be enough. Most natural history items, fossils for instance, are much more robust and less fragile than items in many other spheres of collecting. Paintings typically can fade quite quickly and porcelain or glassware can easily be broken. What was the most valuable piece sold at the first Evolution auction which took place last year? The fossil skeleton of a Diplodocus, one of the long-necked dinosaurs, which sold for half a million pounds.
Speaking to Errol Fuller, renowned natural history authority and curator of the Summers Place Evolution Auction, which will showcase a rare collection of natural history items on 26 November INTERVIEW BY DOMINIQUE AFACAN What has been your greatest achievement in the field of natural history? Some people think my book Extinct Birds but I think my book The Great Auk which is about a bird that became extinct in 1844. When I started it I thought it would be about 100 pages - but by the end it ran to over 400. THE
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You’ve said you’re particularly excited about the Elephant Bird Egg at the upcoming auction – why? Simply because eggs of the Elephant Bird (which was shaped like a gigantic ostrich) are the largest eggs ever discovered – bigger than any known dinosaur egg. Which other pieces excite you from the auction? We have a mammoth skeleton, a stuffed example of the passenger pigeon (a species that became extinct exactly 100 years ago), a stuffed polar bear, and a tiger head stuffed by the famous taxidermists Van Ingen of Mysore. How can buyers in Hong Kong get involved? Bidders can sign up for telephone bidding or bid online, if they don’t want to attend the sale. Find out more at summersplaceauctions.com. R
11 OCTOBER 2014 ISLAND SHANGRI-LA HONG KONG
PROPERTY INVESTMENT EXHIBITION + SEMINAR PREVIEW 1ST + 2ND SEPTEMBER 2012
Access the worldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s most compelling investment opportunities Assembling global property, alternative investments and leading luxury lifestyle brands for an exclusive 1-day exhibition and VIP seminar. Space is complimentary but strictly limited. For more information or to secure your place at PIE+S Hong Kong call: +852 3120 3157 or email: rsvp@pies-asia.com
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