Tempus Magazine | Issue 88 | Cate Blanchett

CATE BLANCHETT

On Rumours, favourite roles and why theatre is her enduring love

GABRIEL LEONE | INDEPENDENT WATCHES | 2025 FITNESS TRENDS

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The human touch

As we head into the new year, it seems like the perfect time to take stock and reflect on the major themes that have dominated 2024 – and, indeed, the first half of the decade. This year, as we curate the latest issue of Tempus, there’s one theme that seems, to me, to jump from the page no matter the subject: connection.

Our need and desire to connect with one another spans borders, subjects and politics, whether we are seeking out for authenticity and cultural experiences in our travels or creating meaningful moment in daily life. Connection seems to infuse artist Philip Toledano’s latest exhibitions (page 50) as he uses artificial intelligence – the emerging technological gift and menace that is another defining trait of this era – to bring the human cost of war to life. It is also present in travel trends; both the rise of boutique hotels (36) and at Monaco Yacht Show (62), where Heesen presented the shipyard’s first four-deck yacht designed for large families to come together in comfort and style upon the waves.

We also see the human touch encompassing the remarkable career of our cover star, two-time Oscar-winning actor Cate Blanchett. Since she made her film debut in 1997 in Paradise Road, Cate

has dominated her profession as one of the greatest performers of her generation. But the actor, who still grounds herself in the live audiences of theatre, says it’s the unique vision of each of the directors, writers, cast and crew that she works with that allows her to continuously challenge herself (46).

As Cate now joins the board of London’s National Theatre alongside playwright James Graham to support what she calls the “dynamic duo” of artistic director Indhu Rubasingham and executive director Kate Varah, there is no doubt that connection – with audiences, cast and the plays themselves – will be at the heart of the theatre’s 2025 programmes.

Elsewhere in this issue, we explore the ancient art of Ayurveda in the world’s most extraordinary retreats (40), seek out the celebrity fitness trends and most luxurious London gyms where we can put them to the test (66), visit Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance to see how this most audacious classic car meet compares to our side of the pond (54), and chat to Brazilian actor Gabriel Leone to find out what it was like bringing Formula 1 legend Ayrton Senna to life in a new Netflix series (24).

Enjoy the issue

Michelle Johnson Editor-in-chief Tempus

OUR DESIRE TO CONNECT WITH ONE ANOTHER SPANS BORDERS, SUBJECTS AND POLITICS, WHETHER WE’RE SEEKING OUT AUTHENTICITY AND CULTURAL EXPERIENCES OR CREATING MEANINGFUL MOMENTS IN DAILY LIFE

Share your thoughts by contacting us via email at info@tempusmagazine.co.uk, or visit tempusmagazine.co.uk for your daily update from the world of luxury lifestyle

Contributors

Rikesh Chauhan

Tempus’s style columnist takes us on a photo tour of London’s most stylish coffee joints with the help of some of the biggest names in tailoring (88) and shares this season’s must-have layers (112).

Editorial team

Editor-in-chief

Michelle Johnson michelle@tempusmagazine.co.uk

Creative Director Ross Forbes ross@tempusmagazine.co.uk

Digital Editor

Shivani Dubey shivani@tempusmagazine.co.uk

Wealth Editor Lysanne Currie

Motoring Editor Rory FH Smith

Judy Cogan

Journalist and travel writer Judy follows the King’s lead to discover ancient wellness with the world’s best ayurdeva retreats (40) before hitting the red carpet with jewellery designer Diana Kordis (82).

Adam Hay-Nicholls

Motoring expert Adam goes behind the scenes of new Netflix series Senna to chat to actor Gabriel Leone (24) and heads to Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance to explore the world’s most audacious car show (54).

Kate Lockett

Beauty and lifestyle journalist Kate takes a running leap into the world of celebrity fitness – and how the latest Hollywood trends are coming to London’s most luxurious gyms for 2025 (66).

Chief Sub-Editor Dominique Dinse

COMMERCIAL

Head of Partnerships

Dan Scudder

dan@tempusmagazine.co.uk

+44 (0) 203 519 1005

VANTAGE MEDIA

Chairman Floyd Woodrow

Managing Director Peter Malmstrom

COVER IMAGE

Cate Blanchett pictured at the BAFTA Tea Party in Beverly Hills (Photo by ©Amy Sussman/BAFTA/Contour by Getty Images).

Article on page: 46

CONTENTS

10 The Luxe List Our essential guide to this season’s finest gifts and most exciting new launches

14 Natural wonder We explore the contemporary cool and wild landscapes of Iceland’s mythical geography

20 More than a marque Discover how Bentley Motor’s is delivering an entire lifestyle to dedicated fans

24 Racing dreams We chat to actor Gabriel Leone about bringing F1 legend Ayrton Senna to life in his new Netflix series

30 Stop the clock Watches of Switzerland’s Craig Bolton on the allure of independent watch brands

36 Independent appeal How affluent travellers are seeking out authentic and intimate experiences with boutique hotels

40 Ancient wisdom Take inspiration from the King with the world’s best Ayurvedic retreats

46 Acting class Cate Blanchett on her wild new political comedy Rumours and why theatre is her enduring love

50 Fake news Artist Philip Toledano asks if AI-generated photography a threat or an artform

54 American muscle Find out how America’s most prestigious Concours d’Elegance is delighting collectors

62 Riding the wave The biggest moments from Monaco Yacht Show as it sets the scene for life on the sea in 2025

66 #Fitspiration Discover the Hollywood fitness trends taking over the capital

76 New kid on the block St Moritz’s unveils its first new hotel in 50 years: Hotel Grace La Margna

80 Personal shopper ‘Skipper to the stars’ James Ballard on his ultra-luxe marketplace, House of Assets

82 Silver linings Jewellery designer Diana Kordis on the personal inspiration behind her red carpet favourites

88 Bespoke brews Take a tour of London’s finest tailors and most fashionable cafés for unmissable sartorial pairings

94 Coming of age We visit Brora distillery to toast the official beginning of the new age of peat

98 White gold How the popularity of rare truffles just keeps on growing for London’s foodie scene

103 RE:VIEW Experience Indian fine dining at Benares, plus our pick of the season’s theatre, exhibitions and more

108 Save the date The finest events of the season

112 A natural transition Tempus style columnist Rikesh Chauhan on the winter coats to make a statement

The LUXE LIST

Our essential guide to the most exciting new launches and finest seasonal gifts

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Baker Brothers

Celebrate the joy of Christmas with Baker Brothers, renowned for a legacy of timeless elegance and exceptional craftsmanship. Discover a curated collection of fine jewellery and luxury timepieces, each a masterpiece designed to create unforgettable moments. Whether selecting a radiant diamond ring, an exquisite bracelet, or designing your own creation, our expert team is dedicated to helping you find the perfect gift. Honour the season with a token of enduring beauty, where tradition and sophistication meet at Baker Brothers. Find out more from Baker Brothers on page 86

bakerbrothersdiamonds.com

1

Hublot Classic Fusion Chronograph

Arturo Fuente King Gold

Created to celebrate the 25th anniversary of the Arturo Fuente OpusX – regarded by aficionados as one of the finest cigars in the world – this Hublot special edition (left) is presented at 42mm case and bezel in 18ct king gold, honouring the brand’s founder, Carlito Fuente, with laser-engraved tobacco leaf motif on the bezel. The vibrant emerald-green dial is presented with a sunraypatterned finish and a gradient fumé effect that darkens towards the edges, perfectly matched by the alligator leather strap. The timepiece is presented in a green lacquered watch box, which doubles as a stylish cigar humidor. Limited to just 50 pieces, this elegant and suitably named creative fusion is a warm welcome to any collection.

hublot.com

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Bang & Olufsen Beosound A5 and Beosound 2 Riva Edition speakers

The world’s most stylish shipyard, Riva, has partnered with leading luxury audio brand Bang & Olufsen to create two new dynamic sound systems (left) for boating aficionados. The portable Beosound A5 is made of navy aluminium wrapped in a refined mahogany and maple veneer handmade by Riva’s craftsmen in Sarnico. Featuring 360-degree sound dispersion, the speaker also contains Bang & Olufsen’s RoomSense feature, adapting playback to any space for crystal-clear immersive sound. Wireless charging and IP65 water resistance is built in. The Beosound 2 is a solid navy aluminium speaker delivering a truly powerful sound performance with Bang & Olufsen’s Acoustic Lens Technology again creating a 360-degree sound experience. The perfect soundtrack for every voyage.

rivaboutique.it; bang-olufsen.com

4

The Glenlivet Eternal Collection, First Edition, 55 Year Old

The Glenlivet has released its oldest ever single malt expression to mark its 200th anniversary. Comprising just 100 bottles, the 55 Year Old is an ambitious and complex expression from the famed Speyside distillery. Matured for more than five decades and finished in a seasoned sherry cask, it has a unique flavour profile –full of autumn fruits, jam and vanilla fudge, with a warming touch of clove spice – and astonishingly long, dry finish. The decanter is presented in a striking jesmonite and rose-gold sculpture created by artist Michael Hansmeyer and the finished result is a true work of art worth waiting for. »

theglenlivet.com

6

Benoît Blin’s Afternoon Tea at The Cadogan

For an exceptional treat in the heart of Chelsea, afternoon tea at the Cadogan, a Belmond Hotel is a must. Designed by chef Benoît Blin to showcase fine seasonal produce, with a decadent French twist, the menu encompasses everything from barbecue cornbread with cured Wagyu beef and Cornish crab brioche to freshly baked scones with clotted cream and jam. Exquisitely rich desserts include chocolate religieuse and ‘la rhubarbe’ – and don’t miss the opportunity to select even more decadence from the cake trolley. Vegetarian and vegan guests will be delighted by the impeccable range of meatfree and dairy-free options. Indulge in the hotel’s selection of fine tea blends – or elevate your experience with a fine champagne or English sparkling wine, the perfect seasonal treat.

belmond.com

5

Amalgam 1:8 scale Aston Martin DB5 Vantage

This 1:8 scale Aston Martin DB5 Vantage (left) is a stunning, handcrafted model limited to just 199 pieces. Finished in iconic silver birch with a black interior, each model takes over 500 hours to build using more than 5,000 precisely engineered parts. Developed from original designs, digital scans and archival materials provided by Aston Martin, this model ensures perfect accuracy. Bespoke customisation options are also available, allowing owners to match real car specifications. Optional handcrafted display stands or plinths are available to elevate your 1:8 scale collection, showcasing this meticulously crafted tribute to what is often described as the most famous car in the world. Discover more from Amalgam on page 60

amalgamcollection.com

7

Dolce & Gabbana Velvet Collection Precious Jewel Cage

Bedazzle your favourite fragrance with the new Precious Jewel Cage by Dolce & Gabbana (left), a richly decorated baroque style homage to Italian goldsmith tradition. This luxurious receptacle is decorated with colourful precious crystals and inspired by the brand’s Alta Gioielleria creations. The limited-edition encasement was designed to elevate the Velvet Collection experience and it’s perfect for exhibiting any of the collection’s luxe 100ml scents. The range of evocative scents include Velvet Rose, Velvet Amber Skin, Velvet Desert Oud, Velvet Incenso and many more in a stunning collection intended to take the wearer on an intimate and authentic voyage through Italy. Truly scent-sational.

dolcegabbana.com

9

Serti sur Vide by Repossi

Avant gardiste jeweller Repossi’s Serti sur Vide collection reinvents the classics with its innovative pieces “set on the void” –from floating diamonds to precious gems that seemingly defy gravity, this collection of rings, earrings (right), ear cuffs, pendants and more showcase diamonds and emeralds bound by a hidden structure to “float” on the skin like a magnetic levitation. Letting the impeccable stones do the talking, many highlighted by the brand’s unique ‘Eiffel Tower’ setting that enhances their natural beauty and brilliance, this collection combines elegant minimalism with pure magic.

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The Fortnum & Mason Christmas Feast Hamper

The perfect festive gift for the foodie in our lives – or simply for ourselves – there is no better embodiment of Christmas excess than Fortnum & Mason’s Christmas Feast Hamper (left). The globally recognisable wicker basket is packed with sweet treats, savoury delights and tempting tipples. This year, enjoy vintage Louis Roederer champagne and ten-year-old tawny port, a whole Christmas ham and Scottish smoked salmon, plus a range of cheese, chutney, preserves, chocolate truffles and much, much more. Enough for a very merry festive feast.

repossi.com 10

Steppes Travel

Discover travel that transcends the tick box with Steppes Travel, where true luxury lies in immersive, meaningful experiences. From swimming with sperm whales in Dominica to exploring Patagonia’s wilderness or delving into the storied past of the Silk Route, discover journeys that connect you deeply with nature, history and culture. Steppes’ tailormade approach turns moments into stories and travel into adventures. With more than 30 years of expertise, Steppes crafts adventures that nurture curiosity, create profound connections and leave a positive impact. Explore more on page 44

steppestravel.com

NATURAL WONDER

Whether you’re seeking a unique city break or are ready to dive into untouched landscapes, Iceland’s almost mythical geography has it all. We explore the contemporary cool and wild landscapes of the land of ice and fire

Words: Harry Malmstrom

With vast, ever-shifting landscapes complemented by a culture that places heavy emphasis on coexisting with and, indeed, championing nature, Iceland is a truly unique land. Rugged mountains give way to immense waterfalls that cascade down on to the black sand beaches of this volcanic island situated in the middle of the North Atlantic.

And amid all this untamed wilderness there is serious luxury to be found, whether you are looking for a city break or to retreat into the wilds. Our journey begins in the heart of Iceland’s capital, where the Reykjavik Edition opened in 2021 as the city’s first truly luxury hotel experience. This incredible addition to the five-star Edition brand certainly lives up to expectations.

Approaching the hotel, situated on the harbour against a backdrop of the Esjan mountain and legendary Snæfellsjökull glacier, I am captured by the elegance of its modern features, blending seamlessly with natural materials that reflect its location in one of the world’s most innovative yet sustainable capitals. In the lobby, a unique sculptural totem of stacked Icelandic lava rock stands imposingly in the centre – mimicking the many traditional stone cairns dotted around the country’s wilds and surrounded by plumped velvet pillows and inviting faux furs on which to lounge. Large columns wrapped in terracotta leather reflect

TRAVEL

the warm glow of the open-flame fireplace from the lobby bar, which offers a selection of classic cocktails with an Icelandic twist, all to be enjoyed while taking in the atmospheric digital artwork of the aurora borealis projected on the wall, dubbed Northern Lights on Demand.

Upstairs, our suite gives the feel of a log cabin in the middle of a city, adorned with warm woods, hand crafted furniture, copper fixtures and faux furs throughout. Boasting a double bathroom with rainfall shower, a spacious bedroom and large living area, the experience is completed by stunning vistas of the North Atlantic Ocean, Mount Esja and the famous Harpa Concert Hall.

As tempting as it is to stay in the decadent comfort of my room, there is more to explore in the city. Enjoy a moment of silent reflection at Iceland’s largest church, Hallgrímskirkja, which towers over Reykjavik in stature and sound (it is host to the country’s largest organ, with 5,275 pipes); visit a live lava show to witness a flow of molten rock come pouring into the showroom and even take a piece of it home with you; or take a walking tour of the capital’s food scene –which would not be complete without enjoying a hotdog at the famous Bæjarins Beztu Pylsur, a favourite of Bill Clinton’s when he visited back in 2004. More recently it has seen cast members from Game of Thrones, Ben Stiller (who filmed most of The Secret Life of Walter

Mitty in Iceland) – and even Kim Kardashian has been papped here.

After a day of exploring, the Edition’s gym and social spa are perfect for winding down. As well as various treatments, the spa hosts a hammam, steam room, sauna and plunge pools all complemented by the central spa bar, which offers a variety of healthy post-workout snacks and drinks – as well as champagne for ultimate indulgence.

For an aperitif or two, the hotel’s bars each offers a unique experience; Tölt provides a cosier, more intimate setting for those in the mood to relax, while The Roof’s unparalleled panoramic views showcase the hotel’s harbour and mountain views – as well as a chance to see the Northern Lights during the colder months. However, for me, there is only one way to end our night at the Edition, and that is at Tides, the hotel’s signature restaurant and one of the best meals I had during my time exploring Iceland. The simplicity of Tide’s traditional cooking methods really allows for the quality of the locally sourced produce to shine. Looking out onto the bay – where most of the seafood we’re treated to was sourced – as I enjoy my meal with an expertly chosen wine pairing, I find it hard to describe this as anything other than a perfect end to the ultimate Icelandic city break – and the ideal preparation for the otherworldly experiences still to come. »

Wild at heart: From its penthouse (left) to Michelin-star Tide restaurant (above), the Reykjavik Edition is modern luxury in the unique city

AS I COMPLETE THE BLUE LAGOON RITUAL I FEEL HEALTHIER THAN EVER, MY MIND CLEAR AND AT PEACE

OTHERWORLDLY LUXURY

No trip to Iceland would be complete without a road trip through the rocky lava fields southwest of Reykjavik to explore one of National Geographic’s 25 wonders of the world: the famous Blue Lagoon. But this is no ordinary visit, as we visit the five-star Retreat Hotel. Driving down a long, narrow road flanked by seemingly endless fields of jagged rock, it’s hard to believe we’re on our way to a luxury retreat and have not, in fact, been transported to another planet.

Upon arrival, we are greeted with a glass of champagne and a view of the Retreat’s private lagoon from the colossal windows of its cavernous lobby: I am immediately filled with a sense of serenity I have seldom felt, as gentle music echoes off the stone and a wood-burning fire emanates its warm glow. Here, guests are encouraged to roam the Retreat in robes and slippers provided by the hotel – one almost feels out of place wearing normal clothes, despite having just arrived, and so we hurry to our suite to better prepare for our stay.

That feeling of being on another world continues as we are led through the doors of our jaw-dropping suite. Diffused lighting and stunning décor create a cosy atmosphere, while the floor-to-ceiling windows offer uninterrupted views of moss-carpeted lava fields and the mountains that surround the lagoon.

Robes and slippers quickly donned; we head for a dip in the private lagoon. Offering the same pristine, mineral-rich waters as the main part of the Blue Lagoon but without all the hustle and bustle of locals and other tourists, this allows you to truly relax and appreciate the rejuvenating

effects of the geothermal waters.

When we finally manage to pry ourselves from the lagoon’s warm embrace, we take a leisurely stroll through the Retreat’s other spa areas, discovering sensory rooms designed for pure relaxation: such as the Lava Spring, with a glass-ceiling that creates a meditative sensation of a subterranean waterfall, and the Fire Room, offering loungers and sofas surrounding a firepit. The journey through the spa culminates with the Blue Lagoon Ritual, a spacious cavern of interconnected chambers, each with a selfapplied treatment highlighting the Blue Lagoon’s natural treasures: silica, microalgae, minerals and lava. Completing the ritual, as I exit the atmospherically lit chambers I feel healthier than ever, my mind clear and at peace.

While it’s tempting to spend our entire trip enjoying the waters of the lagoon, the Retreat also offers daytrips, such as whale-watching, flyfishing and kayaking through the fjords – or even Blue Lagoon Research and Development Centre, where scientists cultivate naturally occurring microalgae and refine the salts and silica from the waters into the new BL+ Skincare range.

Dinner at the Retreat’s two restaurants is equally interesting. Lava’s more casual but by no means less praiseworthy restaurant is inset in an 800-year-old lava plateau, offering classic Icelandic cuisine to be enjoyed while overlooking the stunning blue waters of the lagoon – a fitting end to a day of relaxation.

The pièce de resistance, however, is an evening at Moss restaurant. With a dining room that looks out at the volcanic horizon and, indeed, mimics the impressive landscape through

stunning architectural features, we are treated to what I will unashamedly say is the best meal I have ever had.

The seven-course tasting menu takes us on a culinary tour of the island, from the mountains and farmlands to the sea and rivers. Chef Agnar “Aggi” Sverrisson demonstrates his immense passion for his homeland’s cuisine and more than justifies his Michelin-star credentials. Each course is both a visual delight and a beautiful piece of storytelling of its seasonal produce – from autumn vegetables topped with a parmesan broth and choux pastries, succulent cod in a subtle Thai green curry sauce with caviar, to lobster with pickled cucumber. The highlight of the menu is, by far, the mustardcrusted Icelandic lamb – reared from a single lineage going back over 1,000 years and so rare and tender it makes Wagyu beef seem an everyday treat in comparison.

This was of course all paired with an exquisite array of wines, pulled from the cellar seated deep beneath the restaurant; carved lava frozenin-time from when it erupted in 1226. With the perfect balance of flavour, views, warmly attentive waiting staff, and environment, to call this a mere meal would be a disservice to an experience that I never wanted to end.

On our flight home the following evening, as we watch the awesome sight of the Northern Lights from 35,000ft above the ground, I feel as though I am taking some of Iceland’s serenity with me – a feeling I hope will last me until I can return to this wild and stunning country.

editionhotels.com; bluelagoon.com

Wild wellness: Spa serenity at The Retreat’s Blue Lagoon (above, left and right); Moss restaurant (below)

MORE THAN A MARQUE

As The Bentley Mews opens its doors to clients seeking more than motors, we ask why heritage brands are diversifying to deliver an entire lifestyle to dedicated fans

Words: Michelle Johnson

For some, a car is simply a means to get from A to B; for others, it is symbolic of an entire lifestyle. In fact, for heritage brands such as Aston Martin, Rolls-Royce and Jaguar, this goes beyond personalisation, as members of such exclusive clubs enjoy perks far beyond the driver’s seat – from owners’ associations to exclusive collaborations.

Taking it a step further still is Bentley Motors, the Crewe-based luxury marque founded by WO Bentley in 1919. Today’s Bentley is the master of personalisation – offering any number of bespoke attributes added to its core range, which includes the Bentayga SUV, the Flying Spur executive sedan, and the Continental GT and GTC (convertible) grand tourers – and intention, pledging to become the most sustainable luxury automotive brand in the world in its Beyond100 manifesto launched in 2020. But take a look under the hood of the marque itself and owners and enthusiasts will discover a world beyond the wheelbase.

Epitomised by the Bentley Mews, the brand’s English country home near Crewe, Bentley Lifestyle capture the full essence and lifestyle of the prestigious marque through brand extensions that

allow consumers to immerse themselves into an opulent world of art, architecture, design and more.

An elegant and sophisticated country retreat, nestled in four acres of lush parkland in the picturesque Cheshire countryside, the historic property was previously a private residence for Bentley CEOs, but has now been architecturally redesigned and refurbished – and furnished with key pieces from the Bentley Home collection.

“The Mews stands as the definitive Home of Bentley,” says Wayne Bruce, project lead of the Mews. “It embodies a seamless integration of heritage, luxury and exclusivity, set within a tranquil yet sophisticated atmosphere that enhances the overall brand experience.”

Bentley says the property compliments the brand’s existing factory tour and CW1 customer experience, not just by offering another way for valued customers to experience the brand’s design aesthetic in a luxurious setting but also to showcase the full ethos and character of the brand’s expanded universe.

To this end, the Bentley Mews is the only location in the UK where clients can view and explore the

Bentley Home furniture collection, which first launched 11 years ago. Utilising the marque’s design style in elegant and functional pieces, Bentley Home’s craftsmanship has been showcased at significant fairs such as Milan Design Week – where the Thames coffee table, created by Federico Peri, was launched. The new Wilton Desk was launched in Milan this year as the brand’s “first foray” into home office furniture.

Far from a traditional showroom, guests only need to head to the dining room to view the impressive results of Bentley’s partnership with The Macallan whisky – The Macallan Horizon, released in March, is a limited-edition release featuring a unique 180˚ twist vessel design by Bentley Motors’ design team. The drinks cabinet is, of course, generously stocked with more expressions from the luxury whisky brand.

Throughout the Mews and its outside entertaining spaces, the integrated Naim and Focal audio system offers entertainment options from background music to entertaining. This represents yet another long-standing partnership; Naim has offered its “pinnacle sound system” within Bentley cars for more than ten years. »

BEYOND BENTLEY

The Mews may be the new home of Bentley’s lifestyle offering, but there is still more from the brand, from limited edition vehicles to signatures scents. The brand has recently added Bentley Become (inset) to its range of fragrances and eau de parfums – the new release, described as “a new scent for the bold and the daring” has been created in partnership with Symrise, providers of recycled and renewable ingredients Elsewhere, clients can shop the marque’s collection of luggage – including an elegant leather weekender bag – and handbags, including the stylish Italian-crafted calf leather Mary P, inspired by Mary Petre Bruce, the record-breaking motorist and aviator famed in the 1920s and 1930s.

Other accessories include leather driving gloves, sunglasses, cashmere scarves, caps and, of course, the Bentley teddy bears.

Perhaps most impressive is the marque’s collaboration with Ducati to create the Ducati Diavel for Bentley motorcycle in 2023. The collaboration resulted in a numbered series limited to 500 examples, with an additional 50 Ducati Diavel for Bentley Mulliner motorbikes reserved for Bentley customers.

For those wishing to own a piece of history, the Bentley Blower Jnr – crafted in association with Hedley Studios (formerly the Little Car Company) – is an 85% scale road-legal interpretation of the legendary 1929 Bentley Blower race car, powered by a fully-electric 48-volt powertrain.

Soon to complete the full brand immersion for devoted fans is the Bentley Residences Miami – the first residential development to bear the Bentley name. Following in the footsteps of the likes of Aston Martin, whose Miami residences opened in May 2024, the 61-storey Bentley Residences will be the tallest residential building on any US beachfront, housing 216 residences, each enjoying uninterrupted views of the Atlantic Ocean and waterways around Sunny Isles Beach.

Scheduled for completion in early 2028, the residences are a collaboration between Bentley, Sieger Suarez Architects and Dezer Development. Each home will benefit from an inunit multi-car garage area for up to four vehicles per apartment – served by a patented car elevator at the core of the cylindrical building that allows residents to drive directly into their home – driving brand immersion further than ever before.

THE MEWS STANDS AS THE DEFINITIVE HOME OF BENTLEY. IT EMBODIES A SEAMLESS INTEGRATION OF HERITAGE, LUXURY AND EXCLUSIVITY

– Wayne Bruce, The Bentley Mews

Supercar style: The Bentley Mews brings together the full scope of the heritage marque’s lifestyle (©Mark Cocksedge)

RACING DREAMS

Actor Gabriel Leone shares his experience bringing Formula 1 racing driver Ayrton Senna to life in a new Netflix series honouring the racing legend’s life and legacy

Words: Adam Hay-Nicholls

Ayrton Senna drove like a man possessed. His rivals feared him; his country worshipped him. When he was killed in a crash 30 years ago on live television, he left a legacy of tears, adulation and debate. Now, his life has been turned into a newly released six-part Netflix series, starring 31-year-old Gabriel Leone (right) as the Brazilian Formula 1 hero.

The launch of the series also coincides with the production of a new Senna watch – the fifth limited-edition tribute to Senna that TAG-Heuer has crafted. TAG-Heuer’s partnership with Ayrton first began when he joined the McLaren team in 1988 and has endured far beyond his premature death. Indeed, a new commercial deal was inked just two days before his passing. The new TAG-Heuer Carrera Chronograph Tourbillon X Senna is based on the recent Carrera Extreme collection and is decked out in the blue, green and yellow colours that comprise the Brazilian flag. Restricted to 500 examples, it

retails at £33,050.

Timepieces play a subtle role in Senna, not only charting the racing driver’s career and the fashion of 1980s and early ’90s chronographs, but also as a metaphor for how his entire life was against the clock and he only had so much time to achieve what he needed to. In the opening episode, as 21-year-old Ayrton is about to move from Sao Paulo to England to take up junior single-seaters, Senna’s father Milton takes the vintage Heuer off his wrist and gives it to his son. Later in the series, we see Ayrton wear the TAG-Heuer with which he’ll always be most closely associated, the S/EL (sports elegance) S25.706C Link Chronograph with gold bezel and tan leather strap. At the end of the 1993 season, he actually swapped the one he’d worn during his epic wins at Monaco and Donington Park that year with a McLaren mechanic, who gave Senna his £15 Casio in return (the TAG later sold at auction for £55,500). »

AYRTON SENNA DIDN’T BECOME THE BEST DRIVER OF ALL TIME JUST BY BEING SKILLED. HE DEDICATED HIS ENTIRE LIFE TO MOTORSPORT

– Gabriel Leone

Speaking to Tempus, actor Gabriel revealed he wore watches during filming that had been lent from TAG-Heuer’s archive, but that he also got wear one of the Links that Ayrton owned himself. “His family kindly lent it to me for a photoshoot.”

Senna was, in many ways, the first truly professional F1 driver. Like many elite sportspeople, he was a control freak and a paranoiac. But he was also thoughtful and engaging. He was gentle and generous away from the white heat of competition (he gave extensively to charity, usually anonymously, and was particularly concerned with the plight of poor children), and he also possessed an impish sense of humour that would reveal itself at his most relaxed.

Ayrton left no widow or children, so the keepers of the flame are his sister Viviane, founder of the Instituto Ayrton Senna, and her daughter Bianca, the CEO of Senna Brands. Both were closely involved in the development of the scripts for Senna and the casting of the lead actor – a process which took five years. They needed someone who could act in Portuguese and English and convey the two sides of Senna: ruthless competitor and the big-hearted family joker. “The guy in the races is one Ayrton but away from the track he was another Ayrton,” Bianca told The Times. “And Gabriel was able to connect those two contradictory elements. I cried a lot when I was watching the series. Not because I felt sad, but because I met Ayrton again. I feel emotional thinking about it even now. [Gabriel] made Ayrton come back to us in a very sweet and perfect way.” »

Racing legacy: Gabriel Leone (previous) stars racing driver Ayrton Senna in a new Netflix series (main). The new TAG Heuer Carrera Chronograph Tourbillon x Senna (left) is inspired by Ayrton’s original TAG Heuer watched (top left).

It’s not the first time Gabriel, who is from Rio de Janeiro, has played a racing driver. He was cast in Michael Mann’s Ferrari, which came out last year, in the role of Alfonso de Portago, a Spanish aristocrat who came to a particularly tragic end on the 1957 Mille Miglia in Italy when a tyre burst at 150mph, killing him and ten others. Gabriel clearly has the look of a redblooded young pilot, and his face is a good fit for Ayrton.

“I met his family first on Zoom, and later we had some amazing conversations especially about Ayrton as a brother and uncle; the man behind the driver,” says Gabriel. “They were always really generous and supportive to me.”

He also met Xuxa, a former girlfriend of Senna (and one of Brazil’s most successful entertainers of all time), and Galvão Bueno, the Brazilian F1 commentator. Both characters get a lot of screen time in the Netflix show. Surprisingly, Gabriel has never met any F1 drivers – apart from Ayrton's nephew, Bruno Senna – or visited the grand prix in Sao Paulo. Not yet, anyway.

It was at Brazil’s Interlagos track in 1991 that a crucial scene is reimagined in Senna, and the one Gabriel found the most emotional to film. Ayrton had won the Brazilian Grand Prix for the first time, despite having a barely functioning gearbox and severe muscle cramps due to his harness straps being too tight. Between each shot Gabriel would do 100 push-ups, so he would be able to project physical fatigue during the scene. Ayrton was so exhausted and sore by the end of the race he could barely raise his trophy.

“He didn’t become the best driver of all time just by being skilled,” explains Gabriel. “He practised from a young age and dedicated his entire life to motorsport. He trained

exhaustively in the rain, more than any other driver. That’s why he became the ‘king of the rain.’ It was the marriage of talent and hard work. The series’ audience will have access to a more complete experience [than the awardwinning 2010 documentary film Senna], beyond the races. For example: what was Ayrton like the night before the race?”

This is especially poignant and emotive in the lead up to the 1994 San Marino Grand Prix at Imola. On lap seven, Ayrton’s Williams inexplicably left the track and hit the wall at the Tamburello corner. The 130mph impact tore off the right-front wheel and drove it towards the cockpit, though it was part of the car’s broken suspension that dealt the fatal blow when it penetrated the iconic yellow helmet. In the final Netflix episode, it’s played out using real TV footage and not restaged.

Ayrton’s body was flown home with a Brazilian fighter escort. To put this in context for a UK audience, the death of Ayrton hit Brazilians as hard as the death of Diana, Princess of Wales, hit Britons a few years later. Mourners turned out in their thousands to see his casket lying in state. The entire country came to a standstill as the funeral cortege made the ten-mile journey to Sao Paulo’s Morumbi cemetery, with key rival Alain Prost among the pallbearers. A guard of honour fired a salute over the unpretentious grave. Everywhere, people held banners and messages: ‘Senna obrigado’, ‘Adeus Senna’, and ‘Saudade’ – a simple but expressive word with no direct translation in English, but which connotes a deep longing for something or someone you loved, but is now either lost, gone or unobtainable forever.

tagheuer.com; netflix.com

IMAGES: GABRIEL LEONE

©TAG HEUER. GABRIEL LEONE IN SENNA ©NETFLIX/COURTESY TAG HEUER. HERITAGE

In conversation with BRUNO

SENNA

Ayrton Senna died with no children of his own, but he was extremely close to his nephew, Bruno, the son of Ayrton’s elder sister Viviane, who bears an uncanny resemblance to his uncle. Ayrton encouraged Bruno, who was born in 1983, to race go-karts. For years after Ayrton’s death, the family refused to let Bruno race, but he would later return to the track and reached his dream of racing in Formula 1. Between 2010 and 2012, Bruno made 46 grand prix starts for teams Hispania, Lotus-Renault and Williams.

Growing up, were you aware of how famous your uncle Ayrton was?

Yes. When you’re a kid, you don’t have any idea of the scale of the world. But I knew that Ayrton was very important and successful. Our family revolved around Ayrton. All my friends at school knew who he was, and everyone rooted for him. There was so much support it was crazy.

Was it he who put you in a go-kart for the first time?

Actually, the first person to take me karting was my grandfather, Ayrton’s dad [Milton da Silva], just as he had done when Ayrton was a boy. I caught the racing bug immediately. When Ayrton was in Brazil in the off-season we would race go-karts on our farm. I started in a low-powered kart and he drove a big one – so he could pass me easily and show me what I was doing wrong. He would teach me not to overtake on the outside by pushing me off the circuit. That’s a nice thing to do to a nine-year-old kid.

Where were you when you heard your uncle had died?

We were at home, where I would always watch the races with my mum and dad. As a kid, you don’t really believe it. You just expect him to jump out of the car. Then the phone started ringing, and everything descended into chaos. I kept thinking it would be alright. That was not quite the case.

The resemblance between you and your uncle is striking. Did people ever feel like they were seeing Ayrton again?

God must have saved money on the mould, because my family all have similar faces. I remember going to the Goodwood Festival of Speed to drive Ayrton’s 1988 McLaren. One of the mechanics working on the car had been Ayrton’s mechanic at the time – and when he saw me step into the truck he had a fright. He ran out and had to have a sit-down. He looked like he’d seen a ghost.

King of the rain: Formula 1 legend Ayrton Senna in action

STOP THE CLOCK

As Watches of Switzerland celebrates 100 years, we find out why the UK’s largest luxury watch dealer is embracing independent brands – and spotlight some of the most exciting watchmakers shaking up haute horology

Words: Michelle Johnson & Shivani Dubey

In the world of luxury watches, the names that dominate the conversation are often the big players, such as Rolex, Omega, Hublot and more. These brands are synonymous with prestige and craftsmanship, setting standards that collectors and enthusiasts strive to meet. However, a quieter revolution is happening beneath the surface, one that is reshaping the very definition of luxury in horological circles: independent watchmakers.

Unlike the mass-market luxury giants, independent watch brands like MB&F, Arnold & Son, H Moser & Cie (pictured), Czapek and Bovet are able to operate outside of the usual constraints to create unique – and delightfully disruptive – timepieces that offer up something new, whether that’s

design language, style references, or feats of technical brilliance.

And one advocate for independent watch brands is Craig Bolton, president of UK and Europe at Watches of Switzerland.

The UK’s largest luxury watch retailer, Watches of Switzerland boasts 15 showrooms across the UK, including dedicated Rolex and Jaeger-LeCoultre boutiques, selling more Swiss brands than any other UK retailer. Now, for the first time in its 100-year history, Watches of Switzerland is welcoming a portfolio of the finest independent brands under its prestigious roof – launching in the flagship Knightsbridge showroom.

“[Knightsbridge] was chosen to create a discovery centre and expand the current

selection of brands. By refreshing the layout, there has also been the opportunity to introduce new brands to the showroom, creating a retail playground for watch collectors and enthusiasts alike,” says Craig. “At every showroom, you’ll find the same warm welcome and personal approach, where no question is too hard and no request too much.”

In addition to its status as a retailer and Rolex Certified Pre-owned dealer, Watches of Switzerland is a partner of the Academy of Creative and Independent Watchmakers (AHCI) to champion the future of watchmaking.

Here, Craig tells us more about the unique magic of independent watches – and what’s next for Watches of Switzerland. »

Craig, congratulations on Watches of Switzerland’s 100th anniversary.

Thank you. This is a landmark year for Watches of Switzerland, and I am incredibly proud of everything we have achieved. We have had great support from many of our brand partners and have a range of exclusive limited-edition centenary pieces for sale in our showrooms. We started the year with the hugely successful launch of the Louis Tank Cartier and followed on with two timepieces from Bulgari, to name a few.

What is driving the demand for independent watch brands?

There are three big factors that we believe has driven the demand and interest in these exciting independent brands – the scarcity of some products, the timepieces these independent brands are producing and the distribution of these brands. There are fewer retailers able to offer these brands under one roof and we are delighted to be able to do so. We also want to be good advocates for the industry and support the smaller watch making companies, as well as the larger watch houses we are traditionally more known for.

What are some of the unique elements of an independent brand?

Independent watch brands like MB&F, Arnold & Son, H Moser, Czapek, Bovet and Nivada Gretchen distinguish themselves through innovative design, artisan craftsmanship, exclusivity, personal stories, technical innovation, customisation, artistic expression –and a strong sense of community. Each brand offers a unique perspective on watchmaking, appealing to collectors who value individuality and creativity in their timepieces.

How has consumer interest grown?

We knew that our clients would respond to a vast array of brands with different designs, price points and levels of notoriety. Our clients are horological experts and are continually seeking to evolve their knowledge and collections. [They] range from first-time buyers to seasoned horologists; our main objective is to ensure anyone leaves our showroom having had the very best experience, with the timepiece of their dreams upon their wrist. While the majority of our clients only buy one watch in their lifetime, there is a growing population of collectors and watch lovers who typically own seven-plus watches.

What trends are catching your eye as we go into 2025?

Watches & Wonders 2025 will start in April, and I cannot wait to see key trends that will be revealed. It is always such an exciting show, and I am waiting eagerly to see what 2025 holds. My guess is we will see a mixture of amazing innovation in design and aesthetics as well as brands keeping one eye on commercial price pointing.

watches-of-switzerland.co.uk

Perfect timing: Craig Bolton, president of UK and Europe at Watches of Switzerland, is determined to support smaller and independent watchmakers

GERALD CHARLES MAESTRO 2.0 ULTRATHIN 39MM MEN’S WATCH BROWN

Gerald Charles is becoming one of the best watchmakers in the business and its Maestro 2.0 Ultra-Thin 39mm men’s watch (right and above) is the perfect example of a sleek and stylish timepiece. This watch, based on one of Gerald Charles’s original creations, has a chocolate-brown sunburst dial and vulcanised rubber strap which features the Clous de Paris motif on the top side and the brand’s logo tapisserie on the other. Thanks to the watch’s sunburst finish, different layers of colour emerge on the dial depending on the light it reflects. »

geraldcharles.com

BOVET RÉCITAL 28 PROWESS 1

Bovet is one of two independent brands on our list that won big at the 2024 Grand Prix d’Horlogerie de Genève (GPHG). Its Récital 28 Prowess 1 (left) won the Mechanical Exception prize, which rewards watches that feature a special and sophisticated mechanism – and for good reason. This incredible timepiece features a unique and adjustable world time on rollers and is the first mechanical timepiece to solve the Daylight Saving Time problem. It also has an expanded flying tourbillon and unique perpetual calendar indications and a patented function isolator to protect the perpetual calendar from incorrect manipulation.

bovet.com

PARMIGIANI FLEURIER TORIC CHRONOGRAPH RATTRAPANTE

Parmigiani Fleurier draws its expertise from its founder’s remarkable restoration skills, making it an indie brand to watch out for. The Toric Chronograph Rattrapante watch (this page), limited to just 30 pieces, is crafted in 18ct rose gold. This integrated movement is a “racing machine” which beats at a high frequency (5Hz) and incorporates a double column wheel. Its structural elements are skeletonised and suggest an arabesque, leaving ample room for visual appreciation of its moving components.

parmigiani.com

JACOB & CO ROSE GOLD OPERA GODFATHER

Jacob & Co is one of the most exciting and innovative independent brands of today. And nothing demonstrates this more than its musical Rose Gold Opera Godfather watch (right). Inspired by Francis Ford Coppola’s film The Godfather, the 49mm case contains visual, symbolic and graphic elements directly taken from the movie. It has a miniature sculpture of Don Vito Corleone, puppeteer strings from the movie poster, a piano, and a violin-shaped crank as a reference to the Nino Rota soundtrack, whose main theme can be played on demand by the timepiece’s music box.

jacobandco.com

H MOSER & CIE STREAMLINER SMALL SECONDS BLUE ENAMEL

H Moser & Cie is yet another example of an exciting independent Swiss brand coming onto the scene: its Streamliner Small Seconds Blue Enamel (left) won the Time Only award at this year’s GPHG. It features a translucent aqua-blue fumé Grand Feu enamel dial housed in a new slim 39mm steel case with integrated bracelet. Equipped with the contemporarily finished HMC 500 automatic micro-rotor manufacture movement, it is simple yet discreetly refined, high-performance watchmaking.

h-moser.com

Independent appeal

As unique boutique hotels continue to rival five-star chains for luxurious experiences, we explore how affluent travellers are seeking out authentic and intimate experiences with independent properties

Words: Shivani Dubey

The contemporary traveller is evolving. Today, it’s not enough to simply travel to an exotic destination and stay in a grand dame hotel. For travel to be considered luxury, it must provide transformative experience: an authentic and memorable stay that leaves us feeling that we have learned something new – whether about the destination, culture or ourselves.

While affluent holidaymakers once flocked to big-name properties, reassured by their uniform aesthetic and experience in whatever city – or even country – they might be in, in recent years there has been a growing desire among the elite for stays that are unique, not only to a city but also the specific neighbourhood in which they are staying.

This, in turn, has resulted in an increased demand for independent and boutique properties with exclusive access to hyper-customised, authentic experiences that prioritise wellbeing within a destination – in fact, according to Katie Johnson, VP of Hyatt’s boutique offering, the Independent Collections, 76% of travellers want to spend more on travel that improves their wellbeing. And boutique hotels cater to those needs.

These boutique hotels are luxurious, intimate and private, offering guests a more customised and bespoke experience, which is naturally more appealing to the travellers of today.

“Travellers journeying at the luxury end of the market value discretion and privacy above all else, and this has been reflected in them seeking intimate settings offering bespoke services that feel tailored to their own personal interests,” says Laurent Sola, chief operating officer at The

Arts Club, London. “With such a wide variety of hospitality offerings available today, particularly in London, these travellers are prioritising hotels that offer personalised ‘money-can’t-buy’ stays.”

With smaller guest numbers, boutique hotels are naturally able to offer residents a more bespoke stay. The Arts Club’s hotel offers an extension of its private members club experience, defined by its discretion and near-prescient personal service.

A significant appeal of these independent spaces is the fact there is no single defined experience: guests can explore a destination in an intimate way without a script or playbook. This is a trend that has surged since the pandemic, as duplicated cookie-cutter experiences now come up short.

For example, why would you want to stay in a big-name hotel in a crowded tourist city where everyone else will be having the exact same experience as you, when you could stay in a unique design hotel, a restored piece of history, or location with truly sustainable credentials? And that is exactly the type of experience that B Corp-certified, 14th-century Umbrian boutique Rastrello has to offer.

“A boutique hotel like Rastrello has the opportunity to connect with our guests more intimately, and we can give more attention to details that matter to the luxury traveller,” says the hotel’s owner Christiane Wassmann. “It’s not just: ‘Here’s your room key; check-out is at 11.’ It’s more of a: ‘Welcome, can I take your bag, offer you a Prosecco, and help you with your dinner reservations?’ In a boutique hotel that is possible.” »

EXPANDED INTERESTS

It’s not just independent owners getting in on our hunger for such personalised experiences. Global luxury hotel group Hyatt has also capitalised on these trends and expanded into the boutique hotels business through its Independent Collection, while brands including Hilton, Marriott and more are also expanding into the boutique hotels space.

“Hotels that are curated with authenticity in mind enable travellers to experience a destination in unique ways,” says Katie Johnson, VP and global brand leader of Hyatt’s Independent Collection. “With Hyatt’s Independent Collection, each property has its own name, visual identity, design and guest experience. This allows for that authentic and intimate travel experience many are looking for in boutique hotels.

“Travellers want to engage with these brands because it allows them to really experience the location, destination, or neighbourhood in a personalised way,” she adds.

Another important aspect of boutique hotels is their focus on sustainability and eco-conscious tourism. Affluent travellers are becoming more conscious of their environmental impact and are seeking authentic, sustainable experiences. The focus on their local surroundings and giving back to the planet is something that makes staying at a boutique hotel more appealing.

“The luxury traveller [tends] to be a sustainability-conscious consumer. When they see that a property is a B Corp, they are already assured that where they are staying has the same values that they do. They can leave feeling good about themselves,” says Christiane.

With boutique hotels offering sustainability, personalisation, transparency, technological integration and wellness at such an intimate scale, they are creating unique, memorable experiences that resonate with today’s discerning travellers. It is no wonder that their popularity keeps increasing every year, as more guests seek out private, one-of-a-kind experiences that larger chains cannot offer. While staying in a huge fivestar hotel in a popular city has its own charm and appeal, many travellers of today are simply after experiences that leave them transformed and wanting to come back for more.

rastrello.com; hyatt.com; theartsclub.co.uk

Unique luxury: Rastrello, Italy (top and previous), Great Scotland Yard, London (middle) and La Zambra Resort, Spain (bottom)

Immerse yourself in the heart of Rome, where sophistication meets artistry. Apartment 9, a luxurious haven for up to 12 guests, and Apartment 31, an elegant retreat for up to 10, offer bespoke design and contemporary art that redefine luxury living. Experience the perfect blend of elegance, comfort, and inspiration.

Step inside. Stay inspired.

Suite 9

Suite 31

ANCIENT WISDOM

As the King embraces the power of Ayurvedic treatment, we round up some of the world’s best luxury resorts offering new takes on these life-changing traditional wellness practices

Words: Judy Cogan

En route home from their recent royal tour of Australia and Samoa, the King and Queen made a surprising detour to India. With a well-documented interest in alternative medicine, Charles III, who revealed his cancer diagnosis in February 2024, checked into the Soukya international holistic health centre for a personal three-day stay. The wellness resort near Bangalore offers a wide range of Ayurvedic treatments and promises rest, rejuvenation and rebalance – and luxury fit, quite literally, for royalty.

“Ayurveda is an ancient holistic system that comes from a body of knowledge called the Veda, meaning truth, while ‘Ayur’ means life – so it is the truth and the knowledge of life and it covers diet, routine, exercise and therapies,” says Jillian Lavender, cofounder of the London Meditation Centre and a leading wellness expert. “The royals

recognise there is great value in tapping into this wisdom that has influenced health and medicine for thousands of years and gives us balance, resilience and prevents disease.

“India is the home of Ayurveda and different centres offer various treatments and programmes around the world,” she says, pointing to short spa-style treatments like Abhyanga (a massage technique that involves applying warm oil to the body from head to toe) and Shirodhara (the blissful practice of pouring a warm liquid over the forehead in a steady stream), or weeks-long programmes such as Panchakarma – fivefold detoxification treatment involving massage, herbal therapy and other procedures – that offer more “profound” rejuvenation. “It’s not a one-size-fits-all approach. But in this rapidly changing, hectic world having access to this ancient wisdom is really valuable for our ability to stay well, strong and happy.” »

SOUKYA | BANGALORE, INDIA

This royal-approved holistic health centre (left, below and previous) offers traditional Ayurvedic treatments within a serene retreat environment, including a 30-acre organic farm and abundant natural beauty. It’s a place you can deeply focus on healing and self-care while embarking on an integrative programme blending Ayurveda with naturopathy, yoga and homoeopathy. For those new to Ayurveda, it’s important to understand the experience here can be much more intense than from a typical spa stay. Treatment programmes are customised after an initial evaluation and might include massages, herbal therapies, diet tweaks and detoxification. It’s natural to feel physical or emotional reactions as your body adjusts.

soukya.com

MEKOSHA | KERALA, INDIA

A modern resort in Kerala (above and right), largely known as the home of Ayurveda, Mekosha has 11 luxury spa suites overlooking the river Attingal Aaru, with an airy yoga studio, outdoor pool and plenty of lush greenery to breathe in as you heal. The retreat’s focus is on traditional Indian sciences and treatments, overseen by chief physician Dr Anil Kumar, are personalised to suit needs from joint pain to fertility issues and stress. You’ll eat Ayurvedic meals carefully prepared by a specialist chef using local spices, herbs and vegetables to rebalance your digestive system. Take a cooking class and you can bring home new techniques once you’ve been transformed from the inside out.

mekosha.com

ENGEL AYURPURA | ITALY

The first all-round Ayurveda hotel in the Dolomites (above) with treatments run by head Ayurveda physician Dr Parth Sudhir Mahajan, who has carefully selected a team trained in India in Ayurveda principles and practices. Every treatment, herb and technique is guided by ancient texts and perfectly aligned with the centuries-old philosophy. You may not be in India, but when it comes to Ayurveda centres this is the real deal.

The mountains add a serene and meditative backdrop to your Ayurvedic detoxification and rejuvenation, which only deepens the experience and the freedom to let go. It’s best for people who want optimum privacy and unfussy luxury for undisturbed relaxation. The attention to detail here is also impressive and runs across everything from the purity of the oils and handpicked herbs to the authentic techniques. ayurpura.hotel-engel.com

PARKSCHLÖSSCHEN | GERMANY

Europe’s only five-star Ayurveda resort (above) has specialised in Panchakarma since 1993 and offers tailor-made treatment plans (including diet, exercise and meditation). Each guest begins their stay with an in-depth consultation, including a pulse reading, conducted by experienced Ayurveda practitioners. The vibe is nurturing, supportive and stripped-back luxury; yet this is not a luxury spa but a place for an intensive detoxifying cleanse. Unlike other resorts the sole focus is on providing traditional, authentic Ayurveda. For example, Shirodhara treatments can induce a meditative state, relieving mental tension and improving sleep quality. The cuisine is all-out five-star, combining gourmet with Ayurvedic health. ayurveda-parkschloesschen.de

ANANDA IN THE HIMALAYAS | RISHIKESH, INDIA

Tucked in the foothills of the Himalayas, close to the source of the river Ganges, the ancient medicinal forests of Rishikesh – the birthplace of yoga and meditation – alone would set this resort apart. If you are looking for deep rejuvenation and a complete disconnect from daily life in a place steeped in history and spiritual verve this is the spot.

Ananda (left) provides an immersive introduction to the ancient healing system of Ayurveda by creating a nurturing space that gently eases you into more intensive practices. The 21-day Panchakarma — a complete biopurification process — is closely monitored and guided by Ayurvedic physicians to ensure treatments are comfortable and smooth. You will also be primed to bring nurturing practical tools home for continued rejuvenation.

anandaspa.com

Travel beyond the tick-box

Steppes shares the key to discovering true luxury on your travels

TRAVELLING

LEAVES YOU SPEECHLESS, THEN TURNS YOU INTO A STORYTELLER

- Ibn Battuta

In our modern world of travel there’s a growing realisation that real luxury isn’t found in superlative suites, palm-lined pools or Michelin-starred meals but, instead, lies in immersive experiences that foster connections with places, people and cultures.

It’s increasingly clear that true fulfilment isn’t achieved by ticking off sights sourced from Instagram or from socially shared snaps but in savouring unique, life-shifting moments. 14th-century Maghrebi explorer Ibn Battuta’s timeless take, that “Travelling leaves you speechless, then turns you into a storyteller”, rings truer with each journey, where the greatest memories are not just made in the seeing – but in the doing and the being.

Consider, for example, swimming with sperm whales off the coast of Dominica. Here, you’re not just observing these magnificent creatures but opening yourself to their world, in their dominion. Below the surface you’ll hear the close clicks and calls of the whales, sounds that will reverberate in your bones and shake your soul. You will share a speechless connection, rooted in curiosity and respect, that you’ll carry with you—a story to tell, yes, but also a profound reminder of shared existence.

Journey into the wilderness of Patagonia, where the grandeur of Torres del Paine offers a powerful invitation to pause. While many visitors may scramble to capture the perfect view, there’s gold to be found in simple absorption. Sitting beside a glacier, you feel the primal tug of nature,

a reminder of the earth’s ancient rhythms. Quiet, reflective moments drop anchors in the memory that are impossible to slip.

Destinations like the Galápagos Islands, too, offer additional layers of depth when visited with intent. These islands are a wildlife lovers paradise, but there’s much more to be learnt from a conservation-focused experience where, by participating in local projects, you support biodiversity whilst learning about the islands’ delicate balance and its unique ecosystem.

Such projects transform scenic tours into a meaningful exchanges – opportunities to leave a positive impact on the very landscapes you’re privileged to explore. Whether it’s participation in rhino conservation in Kenya or working alongside scientists at the Scott Polar Research Institute to understand the fragility of our colder regions, every day becomes a narrative thread in the larger story of conservation, belonging and responsibility.

Transformative experiences aren’t limited to wildlife encounters. Eastern Turkey offers fascinating, historical journeys along the Silk Route. Here, among ancient ruins, bustling bazaars and timeless landscapes, you taste the blend of history and modern-day culture. In cities like Mardin, where stone-carved buildings cling to hillsides and languages converge, you feel the whispers of countless traders who came before. You become part of a continuum, where history, folded into the vibrant now, will subtly reshape your view of the world. It’s in places like this that quiet exploration seeds personal revelation, where

a slow, deliberate pace allows for the unplanned and, on occasion, the magical.

We must never forget the importance of people in our travels. Spend quality time in a Maasai village, not for an Instagrammable snapshot but to understand the cultural traditions and rhythms of life passed down through generations. In everyday exchanges you see the commonality of our lives, a recognition that will resonate more deeply than any photo ever could.

The message is clear: it’s not about what you see; it’s about how you connect. In a world of overpacked itineraries and instant gratification, slow, experiential travel offers a new kind of luxury – one that nurtures the self. For those ready to journey “beyond the tick-box” the reward is a tapestry of memories and stories shaped by meaningful moments, chance encounters and unforgettable connections. Memories and stories become souvenirs, reminders that true luxury sometimes means disconnecting, if only to reconnect in a profound, visceral way with the world; that the luxury of experience is indeed the richest kind of wealth.

All you require is the inspiration to realise it.

Voted a Conde Nast Leading Specialist Tour Operator 2023 and 2024, Steppes Travel have been creating beautiful adventures and remarkable holidays for more than 30 years.

+44 (0) 1285402195 steppestravel.com

Bird's eye view: Kazakh eagle hunter with a golden eagle in Ulgii, Mongolia

Acting class

Two-time Oscar winner Cate Blanchett on her wild new political comedy

Rumours and why theatre remains her enduring love as she is honoured at San Sebastián International Film Festival

Interview: Vicky Dearden

Cate Blanchett is a rarity in the world of cinema. The two-time Oscar winner is not only fearless in her craft – whether she is bringing complex women to life in acclaimed films such as Carol (2015) and Tár (2022), playing Bob Dylan in I’m Not There (2007), or embodying Elizabeth I in the sweeping 1998 epic – but, off screen, she has also honed a business acumen and passion for the stage that saw the Sydney Theatre Company become one of the world’s leading green theatre companies during her tenure as co-artistic director.

Now, Cate is bringing that experience to London as she takes on a new role as trustee of the National Theatre, while also celebrating the release of her bizarre big-screen political comedy-thriller Rumours and starring in Apple TV+ miniseries Disclaimer Rumours, directed by Canadian filmmaker Guy Maddin and his collaborators Galen and Evan Johnson, follows world leaders at a G7 summit who face increasing apocalyptic peril while lost in the woods. The darkly funny and utterly strange film could not be more different to Alfonso Cuarón’s Disclaimer, in which Cate plays a documentary journalist who discovers she is a prominent character in a novel – one that reveals a secret she has tried to keep hidden.

“There’s a danger where we think we can try and create things that appeal to everybody, but I think that way lies creative death,” she says, of the range of projects she chooses. “I’m an Australian who’s been lucky enough to work in many different cultures, with directors who speak many different languages, in culturally specific works, and with people from all over the world.”

In September, Cate was honoured with the Donostia Lifetime Achievement Award at the San Sebastián International Film Festival. “I didn’t get involved in the strange, mysterious art of acting to get anywhere in particular. Perhaps my ambition has been a bit mitochondrial, because it’s had tentacles in lots of different directions,” she said, adding: “I started off in the theatre; it’s still my singular great love because you’re so connected to your audience.”

Cate’s work in the theatre goes beyond treading the boards. Her husband Andrew Upton, with whom she has four children, is one of Australia’s most celebrated playwrights and producers. Together, Cate and Andrew were artistic directors and co-CEOs of the Sydney Theatre Company from 2008 to 2013. It’s no wonder, then, that the inspirational 55-year-old would choose to lend her vast experience to London’s National Theatre, joining the board of trustees in November 2024.

“I relish engagement with the National as both an artist and an audience member,” she said. “It’s a privilege to be on the board at this exciting transitional moment. I look forward to rolling my sleeves up in support of the dynamic duo [artistic director] Indhu Rubasingham and [executive director] Kate Varah.” »

Cate, your roles in Rumours and Disclaimer are radically different. What moves you to take on such contrasting projects?

I run on instinct as if it were gasoline. Alfonso Cuarón is one of the great cinema-artists and I found the fact that he was making cinema for the small screen absolutely compelling. With Guy Maddin, he’s constantly – literally – breaking cinema apart and putting it back together, so that was a wonderful fever dream of an experience. As you say, they were totally and utterly different, and perhaps it’s the difference that I find really compelling.

What did you find so appealing about Rumours and your character?

I’ve always wanted to work with Guy Maddin. There’s an inherent tongue-in-cheek madness and irreverence and technical genius that I’m in awe of, and I relished being around that. I wanted to help get this film made; a film about the G7 that meet every year to try and solve these rolling, ever-growing crises in the world, but they don’t have the language to do it. It felt a little bit like an episode of Scooby Doo – but it has the deliberate evasion of narrative that is a hallmark of Guy’s cinema. It was a really fantastic experience.

You’ve had an incredible career to date, are there roles or directors who have had the most impact on you?

Gosh, I don’t think I can answer that question. In a strange way, the role one accepts after the one that you’ve done previously is, in a subconscious way, an antidote to the work that you’ve done before. When you get the chance to work with Terrence Malick, you might end up on the cutting room floor but that doesn’t mean the experience isn’t seminal. I’m always grateful to directors who offer you something that takes you by surprise – perhaps they see in you that you can’t see in yourself and, therefore, those stretches happen. I think the last huge one for me was working with Todd Field on Tár. It just felt [like] a mountain that I couldn’t even begin to know how to climb and I was absolutely terrified. But I’ve learnt through many years in the theatre how to flip fear into excitement.

Is there a character you have enjoyed playing the most?

I do keep referring to the theatre, maybe it’s because I’m about to go back on stage, but I really loved working with Liv Ullmann on [A Streetcar named Desire (2009)] – and revisiting an echo of that character in [Woody Allen’s] Blue Jasmine (2013). I love the fact that you can live with a character’s set of circumstance in a particular story [and] then experience a sort of a cinematic translation of that with an entirely different vision, with a filmmaker who’s perhaps not that interested in theatre. That was quite an interesting translation for me, and I lived with playing Blanche DuBois for quite a long time across quite a lot of different audiences.

Your 2015 film Carol was very relevant to the LGBTQ+ community. Could you tell us about making this film?

I’M ALWAYS GRATEFUL TO DIRECTORS WHO OFFER YOU SOMETHING THAT TAKES YOU BY SURPRISE – PERHAPS THEY SEE IN YOU THAT YOU CAN’T SEE IN YOURSELF

It was one of my all-time favourite experiences. When Carol first came to me, it was with a different director and the money was difficult to find. It took ten years to get that film made. But now, if you think about how many people of different sexual identities and orientations we have represented on big and small screens, I think that it’s profoundly different from the landscape when [Carol] came out. It felt sort of strangely, sadly, tragically as revolutionary to make Carol 1015 years ago as it was when [Patricia Highsmith] wrote [The Price of Salt] all those decades ago. It’s been so meaningful to people, which means an incredible amount to me – and I know it does to Todd [Haynes], Rooney [Mara] and everyone who was part of making that film. I think there’s so much more to do in terms of representation on screen and behind the camera, but it speaks to how much has changed. We have to concentrate on the positive steps that have been made.

Great Cate: Cate Blanchett on the red carpet (previous and main) and starring in Disclaimer (above)

FAKE NEWS

Is AI-generated photography a threat or an artform? Artist Phillip Toledano says its time to challenge our relationship with visual “facts” altogether

Words: Josh Sims

Phillip Toledano says he hopes that visitors to his latest exhibition, We Are at War, will leave it feeling just a little bit annoyed. The New York-based British artist is showing a series of previously unseen photos by Robert Capa – the Second World War correspondent and only photojournalist present at the D-Day landings – at the Deauville Photography Festival in Normandy, until 5 January 2025. Famously, most of Robert’s shots were accidentally ruined in the lab when back in the UK. But now, artist Phillip has restored them – or so it would seem. As is revealed at the end of the exhibition, all of the hyper-realistic images were actually generated by the artist using AI.

“We’re at this historical, cultural hinge point where our relationship with images is being changed fundamentally, so it’s important people understand just how convincingly they can be lied to using AI,” says Phillip. “I hope that in picking an event in history that people are familiar with, that they know to be important, and a person who’s involved with that event – in this case an almost Biblical figure in photography – that it will make enough noise that people pay attention. If you can reinvent the past so persuasively, just imagine what you can do with the present.”

Of course, says Phillip, photographs have been manipulated since the medium was invented: even Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, creator of Sherlock Holmes, was taken in by the Cottingley Fairies scandals – a series of photographs by young cousins Elsie Wright and Frances Griffiths, that purported to show fairies »

at the bottom of their garden in 1917. More recently, digital editing software has allowed many a Hollywood star to appear airbrushed and blemish-free via the magic of Photoshop.

But these are slow and complex methods that require resources and expertise. What Phillip underscores is that modern AI allows ‘fake’ images to be made with relative ease and at breakneck speed. What’s more, we now have the technology – social media – to disseminate those images globally before there’s time to assess their validity.

“[Photography] used to be the central arbiter as image as truth,” says Phillip. “Now there’s a technology that destroys that idea entirely. We all knew that paintings were entirely interpretive while photography, we believed, just told you what it saw. Not any more. Now, we are going to live in the perpetual state of feeling like we’ve just been had.”

Aside from those images that are obviously surreal – such as Philip’s Another America exhibition at Planches Contact earlier this year – we’re already struggling to tell the difference between ‘real’ and AI-generated images. A University of Warwick study suggests that just 65% of people are able to identify whether an image is AI generated. What’s even more concerning is that participants typically found images of AI-generated people more attractive and trustworthy than those of real people. Other research has shown how easy it is to use fake images to convince people that they have a genuine memory of something that never happened to them.

Concerningly, a study found that most respondents believed an AI image of Pope Francis wearing a Balenciaga puffa-coat (an image that went viral late last year) was genuine, while an already-iconic photograph of the July 2024 assassination attempt on Donald Trump in Pennsylvania was, initially, widely denounced as fake.

Certainly, AI imagery is set to change our self-image too – mobile photo editing apps allow users to doctor photographs so that the resulting images bear little resemblance to any real event. More problematic, Phillip and others argue, is the impact AI image generation will have on those functions of society that help hold a democracy together – the judiciary, the media and politics. Major news organisations now regularly have to offer apologies and corrections for AI-edited images they’ve published.

“People don’t vet much of what they see. When you know that people don’t have the time or ability or motivation to check, that makes AI-generated images an increasingly powerful weapon,

especially when already most people can’t tell if an image is real or fake, and even more so when even a bad fake looks passable when viewed through a tiny cellphone screen, as many of us do,” says USA Forensic CEO Bryan Neumeister.

USA Forensic is a state-of-the-art independent digital forensics company, called on to assess the validity of images presented by lawyers as evidence in high profile court cases – such as the 2022 court case between actors Johnny Depp and Amber Heard – and working with governments to assess whether or not photos of hostages are genuine or not. “AI still has weaknesses when it comes to image-making. But I’ve seen [more and more] remarkable fakes over recent years,” he says.

Can anything be done to tackle this tidal wave of fakery? Earlier this year the EU passed the first ever AI regulations, forcing AI companies to label fake images. But that only scratches the surface. Some have argued that AI systems need to be limited so that they can’t produce fake AI images of news events, or that fake images need to come with a kind of indelible electronic watermark. But, as Bryan points out, any technological attempts to rein in AI image generation will be met with technological attempts to circumvent them.

Maybe, as Phillip has it, breaking away from our dependence on photography as an expression of fact is inevitable – and perhaps no bad thing. If photography ever was trustworthy, now we have to learn not to trust.

“We’ve only had ‘photography as truth’ for the blink of an eye on the scale of human history, so I think we’re now just going back to how it’s been for the rest of time,” he says. “Photography [as an accurate record of events] was always an anomaly. Now we’re returning to the default setting – which is not having any clue.”

Besides, do we even care? Sometimes it seems not. It was the 20th-century Czech philosopher Vilem Flusser who first argued modern society is so saturated with images that we no longer attempt to decode them as being representations of reality; rather, we see reality as though through a series of images. Being captured in an image is what makes something real – that’s why some of us now see a destination’s “Instagrammability” as its primary value, why so many people watch live events literally through their phones.

“But we do have to think about these things more,” insists Phillip. “Going forward, we can’t be in a position where we’re constantly having to ask, ‘well, is that the President in that picture or not really? Who knows? How can we tell?’”

planchescontact.fr; mrtoledano.com

IMAGES: PHILLIP TOLEDANO, WE ARE AT WAR AND ANOTHER AMERICA, PLANCHES CONTACT 2024 ©CLOÉ HARENT; PHILLIP TOLEDANO, WE ARE AT WAR, COURTESY OF ©L’ARTIERE 2024

Art and artifice: Philip Toledano (below) uses AI to challenge our perception of truth in his Planche Contact exhibtions We are at War (previous and right) and Another America (opposite)

AMERICAN MUSCLE

When it comes to classic car shows, Pebble Beach and Monterey Car Week dominate the US. We hop across the pond to find out how America’s most prestigious concours d’elegance is delighting its most fanatic – and wealthiest – collectors

Words: Adam Hay-Nicholls

If you’d like an example of how weird and wonderful the world of high-end car collecting is, I recently found myself witness to the unveiling of a bespoke Porsche 911. A mid-1990s 993 model, it had been customised in a unique Speedster body shape and painted ‘Otto Yellow’ at the behest of its commissioner, a wealthy designer of espresso machines.

Otto, it transpires, is the name of the Italian gentleman’s sausage dog, and as lucky new owner Luca Trazzi – the head of Porsche’s ultra-ultra-exclusive Sonderwunsch (special request) department – pulled the covers off the bananahued machine, the pampered pooch was brought on stage to a round of applause so he could give the sports car his seal of approval.

I’d jetted out to California’s Monterey Car Week in search of the world’s finest automobiles and obsessive car culture. The world’s most covetous car collectors are American. Tyrefitted treasures from across Europe have, particularly in the last 30 years, steadily made their way across the Atlantic and Pacific to the US, perhaps more than any other antiquity.

Monterey – familiar to TV viewers via Big Little Lies and bookworms from the prose of John Steinbeck – serves not only as a chance to witness automotive artworks you’re unlikely to see anywhere else, but also a half-billion-dollar salesroom for auction houses and a social event of serious one-upmanship. During Car Week – which is ten days, not seven – there are no fewer than 80 events staged across the Monterey peninsula, which is a challenge to navigate. In this respect, it’s less like Goodwood, the Le Mans Classic or Europe’s most prestigious car event, the Concorso d’Eleganza at Lake Como’s Villa d’Este (which are all held on one site) and more like a Fashion Week in which you find yourself and a couple of thousand other invitees moving from location to location, invariably stuck in traffic. In this case, that traffic can be worth a billion quid. »

ELEGANCE ON WHEELS

The stand-out events are the Tour d’Elegance, which is a 30-mile cavalcade of jaw-dropping machines driving from Pebble Beach down to Big Sur and back; the Rolex Monterey Motorsports Reunion, where racing cars from the 1950s and ’60s take to the legendary Laguna Seca race track; The Quail, where for $2,000 a ticket guests can kick the tyres of rare cars old and new; and the grand finale, the Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance, where different classes of automobile are judged and celebrated.

Mercedes-Benz and Bugatti cars have won the Concours’ coveted Best in Show award a record ten times, with Duesenberg (seven times), Rolls-Royce (five) and Packard (four) trailing in their exhaust fumes. Since the beginning of the competition, only seven post-war cars have won the trophy. Victorious owners have included sartorial icon Ralph Lauren and the late Formula One world champion Phil Hill, who was also a Concours judge for 40 years.

Mercedes took over a Pebble Beach villa and used the eve of the concours as an opportunity to premiere its first-ever Maybach SL; an uber-luxe version of its elegant and erstwhile convertible, and the only time in its 115-year history that the Maybach badge has been affixed to a two-seater. To mark the occasion, we were offered rides in a spectacularly vast and bellicose 1932 Maybach Zeppelin DS 8 – a three-tonne Teutonic titan. I visited The Quail, held at a Peninsula-owned gold course in Carmel. As well as very rare coach-built Ferraris, Delahayes, Talbot Lagos and Bugattis from the last century, there were also the latest hypercars on show; a red carbonweave Pagani Utopia, the Pininfarina Battista B95 Gotham (one for Batman fans), the world premiere of the Lamborghini Temerario, and the Tuthill GT-One: a street-legal tribute to Porsche’s 1996 Le Mans racer that’s been reimagined in an Oxfordshire garage. In fact, The Quail was filled with Porsche restomods and reboots, signifying where the most lucrative trend in car customising is right now.

The biggest Porsche surprise was to be found at The Quail’s auction, courtesy of Bonhams, where a 928 that featured in the movie Risky Business went under the hammer for £860,000 – and that wasn’t enough to meet the reserve. In fact, bids across the board failed to meet the auction houses’ estimates, suggesting the bubble has burst for classics built in big numbers.

A rare vintage: Classic cars on the road during the Pebble Beach Tour d’Eelegance (previous and this page); a 1934 Packard wins the American Classic Closed prize (top)

ANY OF THESE CARS WOULD BUY YOU A VERY, VERY, VERY NICE HOUSE – BUT A HOUSE CAN’T DO 200MPH, CAN IT?

This is not the case, though, with exotic rarities, and a finer showing than those at the Pebble Beach Concours you’ll fail to find. Since 1950, on all but seven occasions (and these were all in the early days of the competition when selection was different), Best in Show has always gone to a prewar car. That was the case again with this year’s big winner, a 1934 Bugatti Type 59 Sports owned by Swiss chemical heir Fritz Burkard, chosen from 214 entrants. What marks this factory race car apart from previous winners is this is a ‘preservation car’; unrestored, it wears its patina with pride and has been unmolested since King Leopold of Belgium had its livery applied. »

In total, 25 different classes and 27 additional trophies were bestowed. The most unusual categories were for wedge-shaped concept cars and prototypes (UFO sightings in the area can be put down to these), with the ‘early’ period first prize going to the iconic 1970 Lancia Stratos HF Zero Bertone Coupe and the ‘late’ period prize to the 1979 Aston Martin Bulldog. Both cars are owned by the Beverly Hills-based investor Phillip Sarofim. I was more excited to see the lesser-known and even more experimental 1970 Ferrari 512 S Modulo Pininfarina Coupe – a Ferrari straight out of The Jetsons – and the 2016 United Nude Lo-Res car, which looks like a giant paperweight.

Outside of competition, there was a large display of state Land Rovers and Range Rovers owned by Queen Elizabeth II. This represented the earthier end of the spectrum.

It’s odd, I grant you, to find a sense of grounding in the late monarch’s possessions, but Monterey Car Week is overwhelming. The verdant fairways of a different golf club every day; the high ticket prices and VIP wristbands; the constant throb of Lamborghinis passing under your hotel room windows, the sense that to be a member of this club you need to own a lot more than one RollsRoyce Ghost or a single Ferrari 250, you need the complete set. In comparison, Goodwood is a lot more egalitarian.

This is where new money comes to be laundered into old, via a century’s worth of luxury automobiles, and where tech and finance bros rub shoulders with the Fords, Rockefellers and Waltons, shoring up the perimeter fences of the establishment in the process. But, beyond the exorbitant sums of money, one does recognise the passion these owners, judges and enthusiasts have for the style and heritage of dynamic automobiles. Any of these cars would buy you a very, very, very nice house – but a house can’t do 200mph, can it?

pebblebeachconcours.net

AMALGAM COLLECTION OF BRISTOL ENGLAND

Automotive art

Amalgam has been working with leading architects and designers since 1985, going on to create the world’s finest model cars at large scale from 1995. Serving early clients like Norman Foster and James Dyson, the small partnership was learning from the very best from the word go

The small team working at Amalgam in the mid-’90s was inspired to put themselves forward to the leading F1 teams of the day and, by the time Ferrari’s dream F1 team came along in the late ’90s, the stage was set for a strong and enduring collaborative partnership with Ferrari to commence.

Amalgam has been the premier destination for all things high-end automotive ever since.

Today, Amalgam crafts everything from the finest models of classic and iconic race cars to modern scale replicas of the world’s most exclusive vehicles, along with fine art print collaborations with renowned automotive artist Alan Thornton – all created with the full support of the world’s most legendary automotive brands.

THE DRIVING FORCE BEHIND AMALGAM’S EXCEPTIONAL QUALITY IS A TEAM WITH PROFOUND PASSION

Precision craftsmanship: Amalgam’s Bugatti 57SC Atlantic, a Ferrari 12Cilindri, and (below) a hand-formed aluminium body and a Ford GT40 fine art print

The driving force behind Amalgam’s exceptional quality and craftsmanship is a team with profound passion and deep knowledge in the subject matter. The intensity of the Amalgam team’s research, recruiting the input of the most renowned experts on each car, means that they are as knowledgeable as anyone in the world once the intense development journey is finished – often taking around 4,500 hours to develop each model. Their skilled use of digital technology, combined with their intense research and understanding of a significant car exactly as it was on a particular day in history, means that Amalgam’s models are often the most precise visual reference existing for a car that has since been modified.

The refinement of the rendition of material and paint finishes delivered by Amalgam’s team of artisans is key to the extraordinary levels of realism that their models deliver. Coming from a design and architectural modelling history has imbued in the team a unique approach to capturing the essence of the design, in detail and as a whole. This differs markedly from many ‘garagista’ model-makers, whose passion is for using authentic materials, but the outcome speaks more of the materials than it does of the original carmaker’s design intentions and the subtlety of its appearance. Amalgam’s models are not just an homage to the original, they replicate each part and surface of the car so precisely and artistically that they seem to capture its very soul.

Its aluminium body replicas celebrate the art of carrosserie and the very skilled process of panel-beating, fully expressing the artistry and raw beauty of the body at a quarter the size of the original works. Each piece has been created from aluminium sheet by a skilled craftsman using traditional methodology, forming the panels with a hammer over a buck, exactly as the original full-size bodies were created by artists of the craft such as Scaglietti, Pininfarina, Touring

and Zagato. The bucks over which each replica body is formed are machined using extremely accurate data from digital scans of significant original cars. The investment in skilled man hours is significant – it takes around 1,200 hours to hand craft each aluminium body replica –and so each piece is made to order and built in limited numbers.

Sandy Copeman, founder of Amalgam Collection, commented: “Our global team is deeply embedded in every facet of the automotive world. Over the years, we have cultivated unparalleled knowledge of the history, personalities and iconic cars of Ferrari,

McLaren, Lamborghini, Rolls Royce, Bentley, Bugatti and other elite manufacturers and racing teams. This expertise, combined with our innovative model-making skills, enables us to create the finest, high intrinsic value one-off models and special projects in our workshops. Our partnerships are built on trust and a shared dedication to absolute precision and authenticity, which drives everything we do.”

United Kingdom: scott.broadhurst@amalgam.com Europe: jason.franz@amalgam.com North America: paul.pigman@amalgam.com amalgamcollection.com

Riding the wave

We review the biggest moments from Monaco Yacht Show as the world’s most glamorous boat exhibition sets the scene for life on the sea in 2025

Words: Rory FH Smith

YACHTS

Every year in late September, the already-extravagant principality of Monaco reaches fever pitch as its eponymous yacht show arrives in full force. Every year it’s a floating playground for those fortunate enough to be looking to charter, buy or commission their next mega yacht, and this year’s show saw no fewer than 120 superyachts gather in the tranquil turquoise waters of Port Hercule – reportedly worth a combined €4.6bn.

Packed into the historic harbour like an expensive game of Tetris, it’s almost possible to cover the whole show by stepping from

one boat to the next – providing you’re in possession of an invitation on board, of course. On the jetties that lead up to them, dozens of pairs of Loro Piana Summer Walk loafers lie tossed aside, as their owners scope out their next craft, shoulder-to-shoulder with hungry brokers looking to cash in on commissions. It’s a trade show quite unlike any other.

This year’s sustainability-themed event focused on everything from hydrogen fuel cell-powered megayachts to the debut of the 122m Kismet and the launch of Heesen’s stunning new project, Monte-Carlo.

SUSTAINABILITY ON THE SEAS

Sustainability seems a little far-fetched when it comes to personal ocean transportation that rivals the size of some buildings, but continued efforts are being made in the yacht world to cut carbon emissions and create more efficient craft. Despite remaining in the shipyard in Holland, the hydrogen-powered Project 812 by Feadship was the talk of the town. Much of the discussion stemmed from the brand’s unorthodox powerplant and complete lack of plastic on board – but also from reports that suggested it was commissioned by Bill Gates. Either way, the mystery behind Project 812 deepened when the unfinished yacht was listed for sale with British yacht broker Edmiston for a reported £579m.

Aside from hydrogen power, increasing numbers of new yachts on show sported hybrid systems, with Sanlorenzo’s first fuel-cellpowered 50Steel model, Almax making its debut in Monaco. Capable of converting biomethanol (green methanol) into electricity, the yacht can generate enough power to run the boat at anchor, all night without generators.

For all the alternatively powered yachts on show, nothing gets more sustainable than harnessing the power of mother nature on the high seas. Championing this was the 33.42m wallywind110 sailing yacht called Galma, which made its international debut at the Monaco Yacht Show. With a stunning shape and extensive use of natural, light woods, the wallywind110 stood out from the crowd in Port Hercule. »

VISIONARY CONCEPTS

Monaco has long been the show where yacht builders come to reveal their future plans and visions and true to form, Feadship, Dixon Yacht Design and SaturaStudio all revealed concepts at the show.

First up was Feadship, with new renderings and details of the new 75m electric fuel cell yacht concept C, which marks the brand’s 75th Diamond Anniversary. With a name inspired by the chemical symbol for carbon – the core element in diamonds – the exterior is also inspired by the shape and patterns that form when light hits the rare gem.

For Dixon Yacht Design and Lateral Naval Architects, in partnership with Southern Spars, the team pulled the covers off an innovative new 60m sailing yacht concept called Project Maverick. Equipped with two sail-like 93sqm DynaRigs, the concept also features a 200-square-meter array, to harness solar power, while the yacht can also regenerate kinetic energy while sailing.

Over at the Italian design studio, SaturaStudio the team revealed Nami, an 82m superyacht concept with sleek, tendon-like exterior lines inspired by the water that blurs the boundaries between indoor and outdoor space.

WE ARE ADDRESSING A KEY MARKET THAT IS LOOKING TO MAXIMISE SPACE AND EXPERIENCE ON BOARD TO SHARE WITH FAMILY AND FRIENDS

– Niels Vaessen, CEO, Heesen

NEW YACHTS AND DARING DEBUTS

Heesen made headlines in Monaco with the news that it was working on a new 62m Monte Carlo yacht project. One of the shipyard’s most ambitious projects to date, the yacht’s design is the work of British studio Harrison Eidsgaard, who worked to make the yacht a comfortable floating home, given the owners will be looking to spend increased periods of time on board.

With four-decks, the yacht will be one of the largest by volume ever built by the yard. “It is unusual for us to build a four-decker, but we have had a few requests for such a boat from former clients, so it made sense to create one,” says Heesen CEO Niels Vaessen. “We are addressing a key market that is looking to maximise space and experience on board to share with family and friends.”

Alongside Heesen, Riva also revealed it had sold the 70m hybrid superyacht it was working on, which will become the builder’s recordbreaking flagship once it’s completed in 2028.

“The sophisticated and extremely selective owner had a very clear idea: to build a timeless boat with classic lines and a green spirit for cruising in a style that fully respects the sea,” explain design firm Officina Italiana CEO Sergio Beretta and chief designer Mauro Micheli. Kismet was undoubtedly the headline act for this year’s show, with the 122m Lürssen-built mega yacht holding court in Port Hercule. Commissioned and owned by Shahid Khan, the billionaire owner of the Jacksonville Jaguars NFL team and Fulham FC, Kismet features three pools, two cinemas, an underwater viewing lounge and enough room for 20 guests and 40 crew. Offered for charter by Cecil Wright, Kismet weighs in at a cool £2.5m a week.

YACHTS FOR SALE

Stealing a slice of Kismet’s thunder with a lastminute appearance in Monaco was the 123m Golden Odyssey, which was reportedly built for Saudi Prince Khaled bin Sultan al Saud in 2015. Just ahead of its arrival, the yacht was listed for sale with Burgess and Edmiston.

Built of steel and aluminium, Odyssey’’s vast interior was designed by the late Alberto Pinto. With room for up to 30 guests across 15 cabins, Golden Odyssey’’s crew and staff number 70. On board, the centerpiece is the private owner’’s deck, which includes two master suites, a spa, wellness area with steam room, Hammamhammam, treatment room and a private terrace with Jacuzzijacuzzi. Reportedly sold in sold in October 2022 at just under €125,000,000m, the superyacht then underwent a refit in 2023.

For those looking for something slightly more inconspicuous, Heesen-built Ela is for sale with Edmiston and Ocean Independence for just over £32.4m. Built of aluminium in the Netherlands by Heesen and delivered in 2021, its striking exterior design was the work of Omega Architects, while the fast displacement hull was designed by Van Oossanen Naval Architects. Inside, the light and airy interior was put together by the Cristiano Gatto Design Team, who made best use of the exceptional amount of structural glass. With room for up to 14 guests, in six spacious cabins, there’s also a pop-up cinema screen at the bow, a jacuzzi and a full-service bar on the sundeck.

Ocean vibes: Heesen’s four-deck 62m Monte-Carlo (this page) and (previous) Lürssen’s 122m megayacht, Kismet

For something a little more manageable, Italian shipyard Benetti presented not one but three models in Monaco. The builder presented two custom, 67m yachts: Kasper 7, which made its global debut, and Calex, alongside Asani from the B.Now 50m family.

If buying a boat is a step too far, then Heesen’s similarly sized 55m Moskito is available for charter for £270,000 per week. Delivered in 2021 with an exceptionally tasteful and voluminous interior designed by Bannenberg & Rowell studio, Moskito’s extensive use of glass, lower deck relaxation area with a sauna and steam room, and beach club to the aft ensure it has that’s needed for cruising the big blue in comfort. For longer voyages, the fast displacement hull improves fuel efficiency, giving Moskito a range of 4,500 nautical miles. With Moskito’s sister ship Agnetha set to be delivered in early 2025, Heesen’s range of 55m steel ships continues to prove popular for those living life at sea.

monacoyachtshow.com; heesenyachts.com; lurssen.com; feadship.nl; sanlorenzoyacht.com; benettiyachts.com; riva-yacht.com

#FITSPIRATION

From SoulCycle to aerial fitness, celebrity workouts have long inspired our own exercise goals – but what are the latest Hollywood fitness crazes crossing the pond to London’s workout scene? We explore the trends that are taking over the capital in 2025

Words:

Kate Lockett

From Matthew McConnaughey’s fitness-boosting interval push ups through the day to Miley Cyrus working out in heels because she prefers to “practise how you perform”, celebrity workout routines have always garnered great attention. Sessions like anti-gravity aerial fitness, Barry’s Bootcamp, reformer pilates and SoulCycle have taken hold of London, piquing the interest of gym goers looking for different ways to invest in their health, thanks to the influence of public figures from Kim Kardashian to Victoria Beckham. But how easy is it to spot the fads from the lifestyle trends that are here to stay?

Beloved by the likes of Michelle Obama, Jennifer Aniston and the Duchess of Sussex, Lagree is this year’s buzzword and go-to fitness class in the capital. Challenging but low impact, it lets you improve your core strength, flexibility, muscle tone and posture through a demanding combination of strength training, cardio and endurance all completed in slow, controlled movements on a high-tech Megaformer machine. Hollywood’s favourite body-sculpting exercise is not for the fainthearted, however, and you can expect to plank, lunge, squat and twist yourself into elite fitness. For 50 minutes of pure power and mind-body connection, head to MAD Mayfair, where you’ll leave feeling energised after the formidable class.

Community wellness has been another hit this year, bolstering your mental health and accountability by adding a social side to your sport. The popularity of run clubs has increased with nearly a third of Londoners running monthly – so much so that a recordbreaking number of people (over 840,000) have signed up for the 2025 London

Marathon. In London, you are spoilt for choice, such as Hyde Park Runners, a collaboration between Mandarin Oriental Hyde Park hotel and Zen Running Club. Step away from the stress of life, take in the unrivalled views in the historic park, and boost your serotonin levels alongside your step count.

Whatever your goal, whether it’s improving on your Couch to 5K or marathon prep, you’ll be in good hands with Track Life LDN, led by expert trainers Rory Knight and Omar Mansour. With athlete-inspired intervals on the track in Battersea Park or perfecting your speed and running style, there is also coaching available to beat your personal best.

As we head into 2025, what is on the health and fitness horizon? Instead of solely training like an athlete, now you can be coached by one as luxury resort brand Aman appoints tennis champion Novak Djokovic as its global wellness advisor.

“Over the years, I have cultivated a comprehensive daily wellness routine, combining mental health, nutrition and fitness, that has enabled me to achieve success on the global stage and personal life,” says Novak.

Not limited to sticking to your routine at home in the capital, you can continue to focus on your health with the guidance of a world-class athlete at any of Aman’s luxury resorts. The 24-time grand slam winner and Olympian has designed exclusive programmes due to roll out in the coming months and events, such as wellness retreats that draw on his training in mental and physical wellbeing. Guests can support their long-term health, with top-tier advice all year round. »

STEP IT UP

Unsure of where to go to take your workouts to the next level?

These state-of-the-art spaces provide much more than a place to sweat, where you can indulge with a holistic approach to fitness

THIRD SPACE

Flooded with natural light, the newest Third Space location in Clapham Junction (above and right) joins its clubs in Battersea, Canary Wharf, City, Mayfair (with new locations planned for Bayswater and Richmond next year) to offer a sanctuary for optimum physical and mental wellness. With more than 100 enthralling classes a week, you can join in with hot yoga, its most popular reformer pilates sessions or workout of the day, where there’s no minimum fitness level requirement. Don’t leave without soothing your mind with a sound bath, or reviving your muscles with advanced Normatec compression boots among a plethora of high-tech recovery devices.

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KXU

From the hypnotic spin class U-cycle to hardcore conditioning sets like Hyrox – said to be KXU’s toughest class – the fitness super-hub (this page) has recently launched a new concept, PACE, that combines endurance runs, interval training and drills so you keep burning calories after the session.

Following your class, relax in the outstanding medi-spa offers a range of treatments such as the cryotherapy chamber to increase circulation and aid recovery after a strong performance. If you’re in search of something more handson, opt for a body treatment, such as the lymphatic pressotherapy to encourage lymphatic drainage, reduce swelling and ease cramps to speed up recovery. »

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OVER THE YEARS, I HAVE CULTIVATED A COMPREHENSIVE DAILY WELLNESS ROUTINE, COMBINING MENTAL HEALTH, NUTRITION AND FITNESS

- Novak Djokovic

EQUINOX

The highly sought-after US import provides a premium fitness experience at three London locations, including the flagship space on Kensington High Street and St James's (right). Popular with the A-list, it means you’ll never have to queue for high-spec equipment in the vast space – there are 11 different types of classes, from martial arts to vinyasa yoga.

Elevate your performance with one of the first-class personal trainers available to optimise each workout session. The epitome of luxe, a trip to the pine-scented regenerative spa is essential, where you can revive and re-energise your body and mind with treatments such as cupping or an unparalleled bespoke bodywork massage.

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MAD MAYFAIR

The capital’s destination for Lagree (right), this exquisite studio also holds yoga and barre classes. Or immerse yourself in strengthening electromuscle stimulation (EMS) sessions.

After your class, indulge in the upper echelons of wellness services with tailored IV drips, including energising enzyme NAD (nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide) and immune system-supporting glutathione, as well as calming bespoke body treatments. Pick up one of the specially curated protein yoghurts before you leave to fuel energy and support your muscle recovery.

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BXR

A heavyweight on the fitness scene, train like Olympian Anthony Joshua at BXR in the fun and fast-paced boxing-inspired Sweatbox sessions (AJ works out at the Marylebone location, this page, too). Outside of the ring, you won’t regret jumping on the highintensity, low impact Versaclimber machine – full body workout guaranteed without unnecessary stress. However if you’re after something more gentle, join the yoga and pilates classes available across all locations. Head to the Lab to reward your body with the ultimate recovery duo – an invigorating cold plunge and soothing infrared sauna. Aftercare doesn’t stop there: get a niggling sports injury checked out at the BXR Clinic, which has physiotherapy, osteopathy and soft tissue and sports therapy available.

bxrlondon.com

Health wealth

Swiss Medical Network shares the benefits of exceptional care in the Alps –and why medical migration is on the rise

There are few things in life as valuable as your health. So, it’s no wonder that for many of our affluent clients seeking specialist medical care, private clinics abroad may provide the sought-after combination of expert practitioner, cutting-edge technology and five-star service in luxurious settings.

Reports suggest that, in recent years, there has been a significant increase in the number of people leaving the UK for medical treatments abroad – and this trend is no longer reserved for cosmetic procedures and experimental treatments. Increasingly, individuals are travelling to luxury destinations for essential surgeries, complex diagnoses and personalised care.

Switzerland, with its reputation for worldclass healthcare, has become one such prime destination for medical treatment. Among the leading providers is Swiss Medical Network, which offers a comprehensive range of specialised medical services to international patients. »

A NETWORK OF EXCELLENCE

With a presence across 15 cantons in Switzerland, Swiss Medical Network is unparalleled in its reach, offering services in all four language regions (French, German, Italian and Romansh). This extensive network includes more than 60 medical centres and 21 hospitals, such as Clinique de Genolier, Clinique Nescens and Clinica Sant’Anna, each known for their specific specialties ranging from oncology, thoracic surgery and orthopaedics to fertility and regenerative medicine.

Swiss Medical Network’s top-of-the-line offerings include a focus on personalised care and tailor-made experiences. The network’s Genolier Patient Services stands out as a dedicated service for international patients; a specialist department providing a seamless experience for international patients, from

FERTILITY TREATMENTS, REIMAGINED | DR ALESSANDRO VERZA

Fertility challenges are becoming increasingly common in the UK, with approximately one in seven couples facing difficulties conceiving. As fertility rates continue to decline, more individuals are turning to assisted reproductive technologies to help them achieve their dream of parenthood. For those embarking on this journey, Dr Alessandro Verza (below right) and his team at Clinica Sant’Anna are leading the way in advanced fertility treatments. Whether it’s IVF or intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI), the hospital offers the latest in reproductive technologies paired with state-of-the-art facilities, all while delivering a uniquely personal and supportive approach.

What sets Dr Verza apart is his understanding that fertility treatment is as much about emotional support as it is about medical care. As Dr. Verza explains: “The emotional and physical challenges of fertility treatment can be overwhelming, which is why our approach is holistic. We ensure our patients not only have access to the latest medical advancements but also the support they need to feel empowered and hopeful throughout their journey.”

Clinica Sant’Anna offers counselling and support groups to help couples manage the emotional ups and downs that come with the process. The hospital also distinguishes itself through its use of innovative genetic testing. While standard preimplantation genetic testing typically screens for a small number of common genetic disorders, Dr Verza’s approach goes much further. His team employs the most effective method of analysis to check all the chromosomes in the embryo before it is implanted in the uterus. This significantly boosts the chances of a healthy pregnancy by reducing the risk of miscarriage or genetic complications. And the results speak for themselves. With an impressive 65% cumulative implantation success rate, Dr Verza’s team is outperforming the UK average of 30% to 35%. This combination of high success rates, personalised care, and the latest technologies gives hopeful parents-to-be the best possible chance to start or grow their families, offering renewed hope on what can often be a challenging journey.

initial medical record review and referral to leading global specialists, to travel organisation and post-treatment follow-up. This personalised support ensures that every patient’s unique needs are met with the utmost care and attention.

Furthermore, Swiss Medical Network hospitals are equipped with cutting-edge technology and facilities that rival the best in the world. Offering state-of-the-art facilities and advanced treatments, the hospitals are designed not only for optimal medical treatment but also to provide a comfortable and luxurious experience, with amenities including fine dining suitable for diverse cultural and religious needs, and elegant settings that promote healing and well-being.

These offerings come together to provide truly specialised medical care

INSIDE ONCOLOGY | PROFESSOR LOÏC LANG-LAZDUNSKI

Mesothelioma is a rare and aggressive form of cancer that affects the lining of the lungs and is often linked to asbestos exposure. The UK has one of the highest rates of mesothelioma in the world, with around 2,700 new cases diagnosed annually, largely due to historic asbestos use. Due to its complexity, and the serious impact it has on patients’ health and quality of life, finding effective treatment options can be challenging. This is where Prof Loïc Lang-Lazdunski (below left), a leading thoracic surgeon at the network’s flagship hospital Clinique de Genolier, has made significant strides.

Renowned for his expertise in treating mesothelioma, Prof Lang-Lazdunski focuses on improving the outcomes of his patients from all around the world through specialised procedures like pleurectomy/decortication and hyperthermic perfusion. This surgery involves removing the diseased pleura – the membrane surrounding the lungs – and any visible tumour masses, offering extended survival and personalised therapy based on advanced imaging and biomarkers, as well as tumour molecular and genomic analyses.

Prof Lang-Lazdunski emphasises that this approach stands out due to its focus on the patient. “We do not believe in a ‘one size fits all’ approach for mesothelioma. Each patient is unique and each tumour is different. We complement the surgical treatment with a comprehensive care plan that includes preoperative preparation, postoperative rehabilitation, and integration with other therapies like chemotherapy, immunotherapy, targeted therapy or radiation when necessary. We also integrate traditional medicines into our care plan. This holistic approach ensures that each patient receives tailored care designed to optimise their recovery and improve their overall outcomes.”

for its international patients. Among its many specialties, Swiss Medical Network is particularly renowned for its work in oncology, orthopaedics, neurosurgery and thoracic surgery. The network’s flagship clinic, Clinique de Genolier, for example, performs more than 3,400 surgeries annually, specialising in complex fields such as thoracic and abdominal surgery. Meanwhile, Clinica Sant’Anna has become a leader in fertility treatments, delivering more than 800 births each year.

Swiss Medical Network’s specialist care and range of expertise has seen a rise in medical migration from countries, including the UK. Two of the network’s leading specialists, thoracic surgeon Professor Loïc Lang-Lazdunski and fertility expert Dr Alessandro Verza, provide an inside look at why private patients are looking to their centres for treatments.

EXCELLENCE IN EVERY ASPECT

At the heart of Swiss Medical Network is a commitment to excellence – whether it’s providing high-end, personalised care for its international patients through Genolier Patient Services or pushing the boundaries of medical science. With a world-class network of hospitals, doctors, and treatments, the network is raising the bar for global healthcare. So, for UK patients frustrated by long waits or limited treatment options, Switzerland – and Swiss Medical Network in particular – offers a refreshing and luxurious alternative.

Whether you’re looking for groundbreaking treatments in oncology, expert fertility care, or just a healthcare experience that puts you first, Swiss Medical Network is the answer. And, who knows, you might even enjoy a bit of Swiss luxury along the way. To learn more about Genolier Patient Services, contact gps@swissmedical.net or +41 22 366 88 18

Opposite: Swiss Medical Network's flagship clinic, Clinique De Genolier (top), and (bottom) inside Clinica Sant’Anna

Previous: Views of Valmont

NEW KID ON THE BLOCK

Tempus heads to Hotel Grace La

Margna – St Moritz’s first new hotel in 50 years – to discover the fresh face of this upscale Alpine destination

Words: Rory FH Smith

Despite its location in the far corner of Switzerland, just a stone’s throw from the Italian border, the popular tourist hotspot of St Moritz has more in common with Britain than you might think – or so the story goes.

According to local legend in the Engadin region, a hotelier named Johannes Badrutt made a bold wager with some of his English guests staying in St Moritz over the summer of 1864. Confident that the sun would shine in St Moritz whatever the time of year, he promised his guests that even if they returned in the depths of winter, they would still be able to sit and enjoy the sunshine on his terrace in nothing more than their shirtsleeves. If not, he’d happily foot the bill for their travel costs, which would not have been unsubstantial 160 years ago. Holding him to his word, the guest duly reported back at Christmas time, ready for the promised winter sun and, by Easter, they allegedly returned home relaxed and, more importantly, tanned. From that moment, winter tourism in the Alps was born and since then, the pocket-sized tourist hotspot of St Moritz has gone on to host the Winter Olympics twice, as well as being home to the Cresta Run, the White Turf horse race and the ICE car concours, both hosted on the area’s frozen lake in winter.

As the birthplace of Swiss Alpine tourism, it’s no surprise to find St Moritz isn’t short of hotels steeped in history, such as the imperious, old-school charm of the Badrutt’s Palace Hotel. Perched on the hillside, overlooking the lake, the hotel has come to symbolise much of what St Moritz has become known for when it comes to hotels – establishments that pride themselves on the comfortable, old-fashioned, cigar smoke filled bars, pristine white tablecloth restaurants and grand, ornately decorated rooms.

But change is afoot in the chocolate-box Alpine town, ushered in by the arrival of the newly transformed Hotel Grace La Margna – the first new hotel to open in the town for half a century. Ruffling the well-established and wellgroomed feathers of the St Moritz hotel scene, the Grace is a breath of fresh mountain air, both in what it offers and how it presents itself. »

BREATH OF FRESH AIR

From the outside, the new kid on the block is difficult to tell apart from the many traditional Swiss buildings, something for which Divercity Architects, the London-based group tasked with reimagining it, would be particularly proud. First envisioned in 1906 by Swiss architect Nicolaus Hartmann, much of the Grace La Margna has been preserved as a stunning symbol of Engadin art nouveau architecture, while its new, additional wing is a nod to modernity.

Designed to be different, the two sides of the hotel offer contrasting experiences on the inside, too. The rooms in the original building channel 20th-century charm, while the more modern wing is a temple to quiet luxury, with its elegant Scandinavian interiors and stainless-steel-clad spa down below. Surprisingly, the contrast works well, with guests able to choose between a modern or more traditional experience.

Given its location overlooking the lake and just a five-minute walk from the train station, the Grace is well positioned for access as well as spectacular views. Regardless of the vista from your bedroom

window, all guests get to experience the view out of the floor-to-ceiling windows from the main restaurant, aptly named The View. Pull yourself away from the glass for a split second and its possible to soak up some of food and drink on offer. Fronted by Italian executive chef, Andrea Bonini, the menu in The View (inset above) is largely Mediterranean, with an excellent spread of fish, pasta and pizza, including the signature Grace pizza, which blends creamy burrata with cherry tomatoes and raw red prawns. It’s a different take on a pizza, for sure, but in true Grace style, it works brilliantly.

Given the towering mountains that loom large outside, it’s impossible to resist getting out and about in St Moritz. The iron-rich mineral springs that cascade down the mountainsides like veins continue to pull in tourists looking to hike the peaks around St Moritz in summer, while there’s plenty on offer during the winter – as you’d expect from a resort at more than 1,800m above sea level. The Grace’s front-facing concierge has endless recommendations of what you can do in the local area. From stunning trail runs and mountain biking routes over the peaks in the summer, to a mid-ski

found at the top of Muottas Muragl, which can be accessed by a funicular straight out of a Wes Anderson movie set.

For those looking to take things a little slower, St Moritz high street is awash with designer labels, fast cars, restaurants and bars, reflecting the well-heeled clientele that flock to the mountain resort all year round. It’s a world apart from the peace and quiet that can be sought in the boundless natural beauty surrounding it but it’s all part of the charming glitz and glamour that St Moritz has become known for.

As Johannes Badrutt boasted back in 1864, there are very few places quite like St Moritz for year-round sunshine. When it comes to charming, picture-book mountain escapes, St Moritz is hard to top and, before now, there wasn’t much choice when it came to the type and style of overnight accommodation on offer. For those looking for a deeply traditional stay, there’s still plenty on offer but, with the Grace open all year round and offering the best of both worlds, it’s difficult to find an excuse to overlook the mountain town’s freshest face.

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New faces: Hotel Grace La Margna (previous and right) is the first new hotel to launch in St Moritz (left) in 50 years

PERSONAL SHOPPER

James Ballard has seen and done it all – captaining yachts for royalty, brokering islands and castles, and even dealing with dinosaurs. Now, he’s reshaping the luxury market with House of Assets, a revolutionary marketplace for ultra-luxury goods

Words: Lysanne Currie

Skipper to the stars: James Ballard (below) built a career in yachting before founding House of Assets

James Ballard’s life reads like a blockbuster adventure, spanning oceans, yachts, and the rarefied air of the ultra-wealthy. For 25 years, he captained some of the most exclusive superyachts in the world, serving royalty, movie stars and billionaires alike. His journey, however, didn’t stop at the helm.

Today, the “skipper to the stars” is the founder of House of Assets, a trailblazing online marketplace for luxury goods that’s giving traditional auction houses like Sotheby’s and Christie’s a run for their money.

It’s a culmination of everything he’s learned over the years, bringing together the exclusivity of niche luxury with the trustworthiness of expert curation – all powered by digital innovation.

James’s story begins far from the glittering harbours of Monaco, growing up in sleepy Tunbridge Wells, East Sussex. With a father in the army, he travelled extensively as a child and, by 18, had developed a clear sense of adventure. A chance encounter while sailing during college set him on an unexpected path.

“They offered me a job teaching sailing when I was just 17,” James, 43, recalls. But when he got home, his uncle suggested a bigger idea: head to Antibes in the South of France. “I met an old sea dog of a captain there – a real Captain Birdseye lookalike. He helped me get my first yacht job.”

That first role as a deckhand on a 60m yacht was the start of what would become a 25-year career. “I thought I’d do it for a year – but I never looked back.” From deckhand, he steadily climbed the ranks to captain prestigious yachts for the (“down-to-earth”) Qatar royal family, Hollywood A-listers like Robert De Niro and Leonardo DiCaprio, and self-made billionaires.

From overseeing the sale of islands, castles and supercars (“I bought the first Aston Martin DB11 – I never got to drive it though.”), James earned the trust of his clients. “It’s like flying a plane,” he says. “People trust you with everything when you’re the captain.”

BACK ON DRY LAND

After stepping back from life at sea, James took inspiration from his years of managing high-

platform is quickly establishing itself as a disruptor in the luxury goods market, taking on the Goliaths of Sotheby’s and Christies.

One of House of Assets’ key differentiators is its panel of world-class curators – specialists in every category, including Theo Fennell for jewellery (above centre), Limelight Nova for handbags, Harry Herbert for racehorses, and Jim Dawson for fine wine and whisky.

This blend of digital accessibility and human expertise is setting House of Assets apart in a crowded market. “It’s about trust,” James emphasises. “If someone wants to buy a Picasso [artwork] or a £75,000 watch, they need to know it’s authentic. That’s where our experts come in.”

Working with ultra-high net worth individuals (UHNW) taught James lessons beyond seamanship. Persistence, determination and discretion were essential. “You couldn’t survive in the industry if you weren’t confidential. So, you learn to be trustworthy and respectful, because these people rely on you entirely.” One businessman, with offices in 96 countries, even asked him to help him purchase an island – “My first-ever negotiation – I was flying by the seat of my pants.”

value assets. A frustrating experience trying to sell artwork sparked the idea for House of Assets. “I tried selling a piece of art back to a gallery, and they suggested eBay,” James explains. “It was clear there was a gap in the market for a platform that combined the convenience of online sales with the credibility of expert curation.”

Launched in 2023, House of Assets offers a diverse portfolio of rare and high-value items, from fine wine and property to sneakers and supercars. With a total portfolio value of over £1bn, the

Among the treasures that have been listed on House of Assets is a pair of the iconic Back to the Future sneakers, personally signed by Michael J Fox (above right) and valued at up to £80,000. With just 1,500 pairs made, they were originally sold to benefit the Michael J Fox Foundation for Parkinson’s disease research. Other standout items include shares in racehorses, €600m-worth of property in Monaco or Beverly Hills (opposite), and exclusive artworks by the likes of Picasso, Hockney, Warhol (above left) and Hirst.

“We even had someone offer us a complete T-Rex skeleton, found in Dakota, in the National Park,” James reveals. “There was interest from museums in Abu Dhabi, Canada, and Belgium but, unfortunately, the sale fell through.”

James is particularly enthused about how the ultra-wealthy are embracing digital platforms like House of Assets, with clients more open to digital transactions than ever. Ultimately, it’s still all about relationships: many of our clients trust him because of the relationships he built during his yachting career. The platform’s ‘Inner Circle’ membership caters specifically to UHNW clients, offering personalised services for sourcing unique items.

Looking ahead, James has ambitious plans, and, despite the platform’s rapid growth, he remains grounded. “I miss the on-deck camaraderie but love being on terra firma, and I love the variety and excitement of what we’re building.”

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SILVER LININGS

Fine jewellery designer Diane Kordas is a red carpet favourite thanks to her blend of glamorous, textured design and fun collections packed with personality and attitude. But, for this thoughtful designer, inspiration starts at home

Words: Judy Cogan

World-renowned fine jewellery designer Diane

Kordas is red carpet staple. Her host of celebrity fans include the likes of Taylor Swift, Gyneth Paltrow and Jada Pinkett-Smith, while her range of collections – from statement Armour and ID Tag to Pop Art and Animal Kingdom – can be found in Harrods, London and online via Net-a-Porter.

Diane was born in New York, where she trained as a fashion and textile designer before discovering her affinity for fine textured jewellery. Her ambition to make women of all ages and stages of life “feel beautiful” is epitomised by her ability to infuse both fun and meaning into her collections.

One of her primary influences is her relationship with the

Greek island of Mykonos – which she first visited at 18 with her now-husband Steve, who was born in Greece. “We fell madly in love on the island,” she says. “It had such raw beauty and it was something so different to me.”

Together, the couple has two adult daughters, and split their time between their elegant Knightsbridge townhouse and a soulful 1960s-inspired home in Mykonos, Greece.

A self-described “dreamer”, Diane says she has lived a life of “wow moments”, each cherished like one of her signature pieces and strung together with delicate gold links. Here, Diane shares the tales of love, family and creativity that form the backbone of her success. »

Diane, who do you have in mind when you design jewellery?

I’m very democratic. I design for women who are self-starters and women who are interested – and that’s a bit different from ‘interesting’ –be that in politics, education, fashion, health or wellness, whatever. And definitely glamorous women. I want women to feel beautiful wearing my diamond and pearl chokers, my chandelier earrings [crafted in 18k rose gold and covered with 4.45ct white diamonds] and ID tags. But I also want them to have fun wearing my Pop Art or my Hippie collection, layering different colours, beads and charms.

this up again? I started making pieces without any real plan and it organically morphed into a collection. My first stockist was Dover Street Market – a really big deal – so I took it seriously.

Your collections are inspired by personal stories. Could you tell us more?

Is it true you first started designing jewellery for friends and family?

I’m a fashion and textile designer. I went to Parsons [School of Design in New York] and so design is in my DNA. My mum was a commercial artist and would take me to museums and art galleries as a child. I was dragged into them and then, when I started to grow up, I was running towards them. I started designing pieces for myself and then friends and family asked me to make pieces for them – but life got in the way and I stopped.

A few years ago, I was in Mykonos with my husband for our wedding anniversary. We had a house full of kids and friends staying with us, but at night we stayed home to swim and drink champagne, just the two of us. Around two o’clock in the morning we were sitting in an alcove that overlooks the Aegean sea and I asked my husband: ‘What was the moment you knew I was the one for you?’ He said: ‘Oh, Diane, you ask me this every anniversary, on Mother’s Day, on Valentine’s Day…’

But then he said: ‘It was your scent.’

This floored me because we’d been together a long time. I sat there thinking: ‘Wow, this is

and is linked to our emotional system.

How do you approach innovation in your design process?

I think craftsmanship is so important in jewellery. I’m always experimenting with things like 3D printing and new materials outside gold. That’s how my sustainable hand-crafted ostrich leather cuff came about. I discovered a company called The Sustainable Angle, a notfor-profit organisation that provides sustainable materials. I used off cuts of ostrich from the meat industry in South Africa to make these beautiful leather cuffs.

Where does your deep connection with Mykonos stem from?

I met my husband, Steve, when we were teenagers and he invited me to Greece, where he was born. In 1981 he said: ‘Okay, let’s go to

Animal magnetism: Diana models her luxury blankets, which bear designs from her Animal Spirit Collection (main and previous). Pieces from her Amulette and Mosaic collections (far left).

I WANT WOMEN TO FEEL BEAUTIFUL WEARING MY JEWELLERY, BUT I ALSO WANT THEM TO HAVE FUN

Mykonos. Let’s discover this island together’. We rented a motorcycle and we’d drive along dirt roads, party all night and spend all day on hidden beaches. We fell madly in love on the island. I remember thinking the light in this place is so strong and so incredible. It had such raw beauty and it was something so different to me.

Do you take time out to reflect on how far you’ve come?

Around 14 years ago I [was diagnosed with] breast cancer, which I beat and am fine now. But a moment like that changes how you think. When you’re in the cycle of life and you’re working really hard, building a business and raising your kids, there’s a lot of noise. But after I had my operation, I came back to Mykonos from London and walked into the house to find my daughters Alexandra, then 16 and Christine, then 11, by the pool. I just stopped and thought, I need to take in this moment. I made a pact with myself there and then to wake up and feel grateful, and I do. I beat cancer. My kids are healthy. My husband loves me. I have this beautiful home. Everything is going to be fine. I’ve started to look at life in a different way. I try now to always see a silver lining.

dianekordasjewellery.com

Baker Brothers expands its legacy with a new boutique on St Peter’s Street

WE ARE THRILLED TO HAVE THIS OPPORTUNITY TO EXPAND AND ENHANCE OUR STORE

-

Lizzie McAuley

Baker Brothers, a pillar of Bedford’s luxury jewellery landscape for 185 years, proudly announces the opening of its stunning new boutique at 21 St Peter’s Street, just a few doors down from its original location. This expansion marks a significant milestone not only in the company’s rich history but also in its enduring commitment to the local community.

The grand opening ceremony was attended by distinguished guests, including the Mayor of Bedford and the Lord High Sheriff, who joined in the celebration of this momentous occasion.

Directors Lizzie McAuley and Rebecca Church, whose leadership and vision have been pivotal to Baker Brothers’ success, officially unveiled the new boutique, reinforcing the brand’s deeprooted connection to Bedford.

The new two-floor boutique is designed to provide an enhanced shopping experience, featuring an expansive selection of exquisite jewellery, luxury watches and unique accessories. This relocation allows Baker Brothers to continue its tradition of offering unparalleled service while catering to the evolving needs of its clientele.

A GLIMPSE INSIDE THE NEW BOUTIQUE

Now, as a designated Rolex Authorised Service Centre, Baker Brothers ensures that Rolex owners have access to the brand’s unparalleled standards of servicing and maintenance, backed by precise technical expertise and genuine Rolex parts. Among the new Service Centre is Rolex-trained watchmaker Jimmy

Sheridan, dedicated to providing top-tier watch services. Whether it’s a simple adjustment or complex repairs, customers can trust their timepieces are in expert hands.

The expanded Rolex area includes a dedicated showroom designed to reflect the iconic aesthetic of the brand. The space has been meticulously crafted with luxurious finishes and showcases the latest Rolex collections in an ambiance befitting the brand’s legacy of excellence. The expansion also features an exclusive VIP suite for private consultations, allowing customers to explore and appreciate Rolex’s latest timepieces in a refined and intimate atmosphere.

In addition to the Rolex expansion, the Baker Brothers boutique has been expertly designed to showcase their exquisite selection of diamond and gemstone jewellery. With an emphasis on luxury and craftsmanship, the expanded boutique area presents a curated array of stunning jewellery from flawless diamonds to vivid sapphires, rubies, and more. Expert consultants are on hand to guide customers through the selection process, ensuring that each piece aligns perfectly with your style, occasion, and vision.

The new boutique also features iconic designs and rare creations from globally renowned jewellery brands and designers offering a diverse range of styles that embody both classic elegance and contemporary artistry. Each piece reflects the highest standards of design and quality, inviting customers to experience the artistry of jewellery at its finest.

To further enrich the customer experience, Baker Brothers has introduced a VIP hospitality service, ensuring every visit is tailored to individual preferences in a friendly, welcoming and luxurious setting.

This multimillion-pound relocation has also facilitated the establishment of a stateof-the-art aftersales and repairs centre, where skilled technicians provide comprehensive maintenance for jewellery and watches. From routine cleanings to intricate repairs, customers can rely on Baker Brothers’ expertise, knowing their pieces will receive exceptional care at every stage.

CELEBRATING A BRIGHT FUTURE

Baker Brothers remains dedicated to offering a vast selection of ethically sourced loose diamonds and gemstones, ensuring customers find the perfect piece for every occasion, whether crafting a custom engagement ring or expanding their jewellery collection.

“We are thrilled to have this opportunity to expand and enhance our store,” said Baker Brothers director Lizzie McAuley. “This move allows us to offer an even higher level of service, and we’re excited to share our new space with the community.”

Baker Brothers invites customers to visit the new boutique and explore its extensive offerings.

Contact Baker Brothers via their website bakerbrothersdiamonds.com or phone 01234 630821

New era: Baker Brothers celebrates 185 years with the opening of a new boutique

Inspired by Italian tradition of Pitti Uomo – where the most elegant fashionistas are inseparable from their espresso – we take a tour of London’s finest tailors and most fashionable cafés – to discover the best sartorial pairings from the Row to Fitzrovia

Words

and photography:

Rikesh Chauhan

The synergy between good coffee and quality clothing can be seen whenever the sartorial consigliere descends upon Florence to embark on a week-long tailoring trade show called Pitti Uomo. While the Italians are well-known for their love of an espresso or 12, closer to home, you’ll see London’s best-dressed turn every road into a catwalk, usually with a takeaway coffee in hand, too.

My shopping trips are often punctuated with coffee stops and so it helps when there are great options in close proximity within the MayfairSavile Row-Fitzrovia trifecta.

There’s something so satisfying about discussing things that are beautifully-designed over something that’s wonderfully made. The feeling of knowing where your clothes come from and who made your coffee, a personal appeal unrivalled for those that care about what they wear and consume.

The time poured into every stitch runs parallel to the time it takes to produce the beans to create the best pour. We spend our lives striving for the creme de la creme, and while the concept of ‘perfection’ doesn’t exist – for me, anyway – the people running these brands come pretty close. Here, we’ve highlighted a few coffee spots and clothes shops that are best sampled together. »

ANDERSON & SHEPPARD AND NKORA COFFEE | SAVILE ROW

Anderson & Sheppard, the tailoring house and haberdashery owned by Anda Rowland (right), is one of the most esteemed names in the world of tailoring and beyond. The suitmaker of choice for everyone from Fred Astaire to Daniel Craig played an integral part in Savile Row’s inception, and now resides on the parallel Burlington Street, with the brand’s haberdashery situated around the corner on Clifford Street.

From some of the finest suits ever made to some of the most beautiful casual pieces you’re likely to find, visiting Anderson & Sheppard is worth the trip alone. However, should you fancy a brew to kickstart such a visit, you’re in luck.

Nkora was one of the first specialty coffee spots to open in the area, and considering it’s less than a minute away from the haberdashery, the two became pretty much synonymous and simpatico.

I’ve had the pleasure of using Nkora as a base for meetings, coffee breaks, and photoshoots – including for Anderson & Sheppard themselves. It’s almost a new rite of passage that one should walk into Anderson & Sheppard with a cup of Nkora coffee in hand. Just promise not to spill it. anderson-sheppard.co.uk; nkora.co.uk

RICHARD GELDING AND HAGEN | MAYFAIR

Moving into Mayfair, one of the best spots for classic tailoring and luxury clothing can be found at the top end of North Audley Street. Richard Gelding was founded in 1976, and was recently acquired by Mike Hughes (right), whom I’d best describe as enigmatic and charismatic. Purveyor of brands including Carmina, Altea, Canali and more, you’re in the right place for allyear-round, head-to-toe ensembles.

You’re not short of coffee options when you’re in his neck of the woods, but considering Hagen has opened quite literally next door, this is the instant choice for a finely timed espresso. At the time of writing, the London-founded Danish espresso bar Hagen has been open for exactly one day, and we’ve already frequented it several times. With elegant and simple branding, the interior is equally beautiful and befitting of such a location. I’m already looking forward to spending way too much time there.

richardgelding.com; thehagenproject.com

CLUTCH CAFE AND ARCHETYPE |

FITZROVIA

From the Row to Fitzrovia, anyone even remotely clued into the Amekaji scene will be familiar with Clutch Cafe. Located in a Grade II listed building on the corner of Great Portland Street and Riding House Street, the Japanese magazine/ clothing store (previous and below) stocks some of the world’s finest brands, with everything from magazines to knitwear to denim jackets, boots and more available to peruse and purchase.

Once upon a time, they even had a coffee shop directly inside – my educated guess is that this may explain the ‘cafe’ element of Clutch Cafe. It has since taken a backseat (now being reserved for staff only) but don’t fret, as a simple jaunt down the road will take you to one of London’s best hidden gems.

Archetype was founded by Aaron Murly (right) in 2022, and let’s just say it’s my first port of call whenever I’m near. I first came across it after I was left waiting at Kaffeine due to their morning rush (for the record, Kaffeine is another café well worth the wait, but I was in a race against time that particular day). Across the road, I noticed a beautiful shop facade with an equally beautiful typeface. I gave it a closer inspection and the rest was history.

Not only does Archetype offer great coffee, matcha and more, but nine times out of ten, Aaron will be the one serving you. His warmth and hospitality is infectious and if you immediately want to become his best friend – just be warned that the queue for that is equally as long.

clutch-cafe.com; @archetype.fitzrovia

BEYOND LIMITS

Louis Vuitton takes its passion for travel to new heights with its latest horological releases

Louis Vuitton Watches may be best known for its timeless Tambour and elegant Escale collections – as well as award-winning one-offs and bespoke commissions – but its exceptional watchmaking team is also gaining fame for mechanisms more akin to objets d’art than simple wristwatches. The latest Louis Vuitton Montgolfière Aéro is a perfect example of the impressive craftsmanship of its metiers d’arts team, located in the brand’s La Fabrique du Temps manufactory in Geneva.

The Montgolfière Aéro is an horological machine inspired by Louis Vuitton’s historic passion for travel – the brand’s founder created his first Aéro trunks in 1906 – fusing high jewellery, trunkmaking savoir-faire and Swiss watchmaking. The machine is limited to eight pieces and available in two expressions, both taking the form of a hot air balloon – in either traditional brass and red transparent glass (inset below), or precious wood –which incorporates a Swiss mechanical clock. This is attached to a diamondstudded basket fashioned as a miniature Louis Vuitton trunk, handcrafted using the same methods as the real thing and completed with signature elements and design codes, which houses the clock’s winding mechanism.

The design features extra details to delight the observer, including a. magnificent 9.06ct citrine briolette Louis Vuitton Monogram Flower suspended in the centre of the openwork balloon, while the same monogram (including its own citrine) indicates the hours and minutes. Manufactured in collaboration with sculptural clockmakers L’Épee 1839, the piece can be housed as a table clock for a desk or shelf, or suspended from the ceiling to float as a real hot air balloon.

EYE FOR DETAIL

This soaring eye for craftsmanship is no surprise coming from the maison’s manufactory, which is on a mission to transform the limits of Swiss watchmaking. Take, for example, Louis Vuitton’s latest Escale collection, with its subtle design references to the history of the brand’s innovative trunkmaking. The collection’s newest expression – dubbed ‘The Craft Master’ – showcasing specialist crafts including grand feu enamel and guilloché.

Limited to just 50 pieces, each hand-made dial is decorated with guilloché and two types of grand feu enamel: champleve and flinque. Four master artisans were called upon to craft each exquisite dial, which begins as a solid gold disc. This is then engraved on a hand-operated rose engine to create a radial guilloche – a decorative technique unchanged since the 18th century – before enamelling can be applied.

Each of the hour indices at the quarters are individually rivetted to the dial using a precision laser, as drilling through the delicate enamel is nearimpossible without damaging the dial. The watch is finished with details including 18ct white indexes inspired by trunk corners and needle-shaped hour and minute hands, referencing the traditional trunkmaking tools that created the maison’s iconic bags, housed in a platinum case and, finally, presented with an elegant blue calf leather strap.

Inside the watch its powerhouse, the maison’s proprietary LFT023 chronometer calibre, is visible through the sapphire display back. Created in collaboration with Le Cercle des Horlogers, the calibre is certified by the Geneva Observatory, and a mark of the innovative Swiss watchmaking credentials that bring Louis Vuitton’s timeless savoir faire to life. louisvuitton.com

Taking flight: The Montgolfière Aéro (right) is inspired by Louis Vuitton’s historic passion for travel and presented in just eight hand-crafted pieces (main)

For those of us whisky fans who are as moved by the particular romance of a distillery’s story as we are an exceptional dram, there are few more beloved or fascinating brands than Brora. From its Highland origins to its high notes at the age of peat, its record-breaking status as a ghost distillery to its meticulous restoration just three years ago, the story of Brora in many ways reflects the elusive magic of fine scotch whisky as a whole.

And now, Diageo’s restoration efforts have paid dividends as, on a suitably crisp and sunny day in the highlands, the first liquid distilled by the reawakened distillery in 40 years was officially classified as Scotch whisky, marking the start of an exciting new era.

The location itself is nothing short of dreamy: Brora is surrounded by sweeping landscapes of fields and beaches, the air is fresh and clean with a touch of coastal salt. Behind the distillery’s wildcat gates, the painstaking brick-by-brick restoration transports visitors to a bygone era thanks to the frankly gorgeous

COMING OF AGE

As Brora’s first casks filled since the distillery’s £35m reawakening are officially classified as Scotch whisky, we take a visit to the highlands to toast the official beginning of the new age of peat

Victorian architecture and famed local brickwork. Inside the warehouses, liquid gold from the first age of peat sleeps in barrels, with exceptional casks just waiting to be discovered by the brand’s master blender Dr Craig Wilson. In fact, it was only in November that Craig’s most remarkable discovery was launched as one of ‘The Twelve’ 2024 showcase by Casks of Distinction – a celebration of ultra-rare and finest whiskies from the 10 million maturing casks under Diageo custodianship in Scotland. This year’s line-up included the Brora 1977 #2845 Cask of Distinction, a hogshead cask described by Craig as: “One of the rarest and most valuable casks in all of Diageo’s custodianship, this wonderfully old Brora is perfectly formed at 47 years of age, gentle but complex, unique and unrepeatable.”

On site, the Victorian still house is crowned by traditional bell, ringing out the start of a tour that takes us from carefully recreated or restored equipment to the real star of the Brora distillery: the two original copper stills, buffed and polished to a

Words: Michelle Johnson

proud gleam. Brora’s team of master distillers makes modern Scotch using methods and equipment that are utterly faithful to the generations that came before them.

Tying Brora’s storied heritage to the modern day is its beautifully equipped guest centre and dining hall, where Brora distillery host Andrew Flatt is on hand to guide guests through a hands-on history lesson, complete with a few momentous drams that encompass the different eras of the brand and, therefore, of Brora. More impressively, during my visit I am invited to sample Brora’s 2021 Triptych: a 300-limited-edition collection of three single malt expressions from 1972, 1977 and 1982 launched to celebrate the distillery’s reawakening three years ago and that, together, represent the three core styles produced by Brora over the years. From intense peat and chilli to wax and wood spice, these remarkably different drams are the perfect place to start when understanding this unique distillery’s vibrant and diverse production. »

SPIRIT OF REINVENTION

Brora, originally known as Clynelish, was built by the Marquess of Stafford in 1819. Situated near Brora, a small village on the Sutherland coast, the distillery would act as a symbol of the area’s status as an industrial powerhouse.

Not only was Brora once home to the UK’s most northerly coal mine (1872-1974) — which would soon power the local woollen mills producing cashmere (today still exemplified by the selfsame-named luxury knitwear brand) — but the village also boasted thriving brickworks and salt production, as well as boatbuilding and salmon fishing industries. In 1913 Brora became the first place in the north of Scotland to have electric streetlighting (powered by the woollen mill), gaining it the nickname Electric City.

Clynelish was one of many distilleries, such as Talisker, tied to the history of the Highland Clearances of the early 19th century — when landowners forcibly evicted thousands of tenant farmers from their homes. In Sutherland alone, 15,000 people were either sent abroad or resettled on the coast to learn a new trade, such as fishing. In Brora, the Marquess established a range of new industries — including the famous brickworks and distillery — and established the expanded colliery, to create jobs for former tenant farmers.

The distillery was not an overnight success. But by 1886 it had gained a reputation for exceptional whisky for blending and, eventually, as a powerful single malt in its own right. The distillery would close twice in the early 20thcentury – during the depression years of 1931 to 1938, and then from May 1941 to November 1945 due to wartime restrictions (though rumour has it that low level production may have continued throughout the Second World War).

In 1968, a new and thoroughly modern Clynelish Distillery opened its doors across the road from its predecessor, enabling its owners to produce significantly more liquid as demand grew. Thus, “Clynelish 1” – as it was briefly known – became Brora. Between 1969 and 1981, Brora produced its now famed – and coveted – peated style, as well as a heavily peated whisky that was also used for blending during a dramatic drought and engineering works that impacted production in the Islay region until 1973. Soon enough, the distillery’s Highland style stepped into the spotlight, evolving into its distinctive and delectable blend of peat, wax and spice. It was in early 1983 that Brora closed its gates for what was thought to be the final time, as the distillery was mothballed alongside many other smaller distilleries – including Port Ellen –during a period of changing tastes.

THE WILDCAT AWAKENS

Happily, Brora’s long sleep was not to last, thanks to the unceasing passion of whisky connoisseurs and collectors. As a ghost distillery, Brora’s reputation grew beyond cult status to reach legendary heights, setting records at auction and through rare releases. In 2019, a bottle of Brora 1972 Limited Edition 40-Year-Old sold at Sotheby’s for a distillery record of £54,450.

Its restoration was announced by Diageo in 2017, as part of a £35m investment to bring Brora and equally renowned ghost distillery Port Ellen back to life; Diageo has invested a total of £185m into Scotch whisky tourism and whisky visitor experiences since that time. In the spring of 2021, after three years of meticulous restoration, the wildcat distillery roared back in a rebirth that has coincided with a fine whisky industry that has gone from strength to strength. The first casks filled from the reawakened distillery in summer 2021 have now come of age – no longer categorised as ‘new make spirit’, this is, finally, the real deal.

“It’s a historic milestone”, Andrew says. “Three years on since the Wildcat Gates reopened, our new-make spirit is coming of age. This year, what lies in the casks at Brora can finally be called Scotch whisky. We see this as a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for guests to be among the first in the world to sample this whisky in over 40 years.”

Celebrating the milestone, Brora released a second distillery exclusive bottling in the Brora 44-Year-Old Untold Depths. The 150 limitededition Untold Depths honours the distillery’s ‘age of peat’ with the new release, a single cask bottling from 1977 — bottled from cask number 2637, Warehouse No 1 — and priced at £10,000 per bottle.

“Untold Depths is a classic pairing of a gentle cask and medium peating, which explores the full depth of taste of which Brora is capable,” said master blender Craig of the release, which not only celebrates Brora’s storied legacy of whisky-making but offers its fans and collectors important hints about the distillery’s future –inspired by the iconic age of peat and proving the romance of fine highland Scotch will last for future generations.

brora.com

Untold depths: Andrew Flatt leads the toast (top) at the restored Brora distillery (above). An ultrarare 1977 Brora is named one of 2024’s 12 Casks of Distinction (right)

Despite its prevalence on modern menus, white truffles remain one of the most rare and precious ingredients in an elite chef’s arsenal. We explore how this delicacy has stood the test of time – and popularity

Words: Shivani Dubey

Truffle is one of the most coveted ingredients in modern day cuisine. Yet cooking with fresh truffles is a luxury few can afford. These seasonal delicacies are only available for a few months each year and have become a true gastronomic cultural and status symbol. Often described as edible diamonds, they are the main characters of every dish they feature in. And out of all the truffles that exist, white truffle is recognised as the rarest in the world.

Its distinctiveness lies in its exquisite aroma — an intense and unique fragrance that sets it apart from the relatively more common black truffle. Its complex flavour profile – with notes of garlic, shallots, and earthy undertones – lends a luxurious touch to any dish it graces.

However, recently, it seems like every restaurant in the world has truffles on the menu. Whether it is in the form of truffle fries at a highstreet franchise to more seasonal menus in fine dining restaurants, there has been a slow but definite shift for this rarity, from the exclusive to the mainstream.

So how are restaurants maintaining white truffle’s exclusivity while also catering to its everexpanding popularity?

“There is a difference between fresh truffles and using truffle products such as truffle oil and paste,” explains Massimo Tagliaferri, head chef at Sette by Scarpetta in London’s Knightsbridge. “These last two are more accessible, but you will also find that they are more difficult to digest as they are not the pure ingredient. Using fresh truffle provides a delicate flavour and is less overpowering than a truffle product.”

Speak to any restauranteur or supplier, and they’ll tell you that sourcing truffle – especially »

white truffle – is a meticulous endeavour due to its rarity and limited availability, which is what contributes to its high price point.

According to chef Elliott Grover of CUT at 45 Park Lane, white truffles are also not easy to grow at all, and you need to have a fantastic truffle supplier to ensure you get the best of what is available.

They are usually grown in the Piedmont, Tuscany, Emilia Romagna and Marche regions of Italy, where they come into maturity after the September rains and after the first frost has passed. Black truffles are comparatively easier to grow – and you can find them in Italy as well as in France, Spain, Australia and even the UK.

“Challenges arise primarily from the unpredictability of nature and the finite availability of white truffle, which necessitates a swift and precise response to ensure its timely delivery to our kitchen,” explain Alberto and Arian Zandi, co-founders of Emerald Hospitality Group, which is the parent company of London’s fine dining French restaurant Riviera.

The best time to indulge in the delicacy of truffles is autumn and winter when fine dining restaurants come out with special menus in celebration. There are different types of truffle, pairings, regions and seasonality, so you are truly spoilt for choice.

Italian restaurants like Sette by Scarpetta and Sale e Pepe, also in Knightsbridge, and Holland Park’s Belvedere all release delectable menus championing this coveted ingredient. White truffle tagliatelle is one of the most popular dishes during this time. A simple tagliatelle with butter and truffle is a transcendent experience. For a French flair, London’s Riviera and Coq d’Argent are some of the best in the business. And if you want to veer down to South America, COYA Mayfair does Peruvian cuisine with truffle infusions.

The best way to learn about edible ingredients in nature is to go out and forage for them. Visit estates like Cowdray for foraging experiences, where guests can hunt for their own truffles, mushrooms and more in the bountiful West Sussex countryside.

There are three things to look out for when foraging or sourcing truffle, says chef Massimo: the look (make sure the colour is right – skin that’s pale yellow or even ochre in colour, the flesh marbled with white veins), the smell (they should have a strong fragrance) and the firmness (it must be firm and not soft – like a potato). It’s also important to look at the origin.

When cooking at home, shaving white truffle over freshly cooked pasta, risotto, or scrambled eggs can make for an indulgent experience, says Alberto. Additionally, infusing butter or olive oil with truffle can effortlessly elevate a range of dishes — from roasted vegetables to meat.

“The key is to let the truffle’s aroma and taste shine by pairing it with uncomplicated, complementary flavours that allow it to take centre stage in the dish,” he adds.

Fitting that these incredible ingredients are the main characters, because there might be imitations in the form of oils and pastes that never quite hit the spot, but the true star – the truffle itself – will never grow out of style.

Diamond delicacy:

Coq d’Argent (previous and above), Sette London (right) and CUT at 45 Park Lane (far right) work with the rarest truffles in their seasonal menus

Mushrooms – one of the oldest groups of organisms on earth – take centre stage in the new zero-alcohol soft drinks: Zooz. An innovative non-alcoholic wellness drink powered by mushrooms and designed for adults, Zooz appeals to those who have not, until now, found a soft drink that tastes great with meals or as an aperitif

Zooz is the brainchild of former personal trainer, Daniel Soos (pictured). The drink contains lion’s mane mushrooms, thought to aid cognition; cordyceps mushrooms, believed to improve endurance; ginseng; and green coffee beans.

Its inventor believes this will kick-start a new category of sophisticated soft drinks that taste good and do you good. Zooz is sugar-free, gluten free, plastic-free and has no artificial additives. It has slightly earthy, bitter, Italian-style zesty citrus notes and a light sparkle. It is one to sip and savour as an aperitif, with savoury foods or to give you a lift at any time. Serve neat or with ice and a slice of fresh orange.

Mushrooms are causing interest among scientists. According to Tim Spector, professor of genetic epidemiology at King’s College London and scientific co-founder at ZOE, mushrooms “are closer to humans than plants”. Like us, he says, “they sunbathe

and produce vitamins D and B12”. Fungi have survived tens of millions of years and have advanced dietary benefits, including antiinflammatory properties.

Daniel Soos, founder and CEO of Zooz, says: “One day, walking through a supermarket, I envisioned my mushroom-based product on the shelves and decided to make it a reality. I quit personal training and devoted everything to this dream of helping to improve people’s health.”

Even at this early stage, the Zooz brand is soon expanding with a launch planned for two new variants to suit different lifestyle needs.

The brand has also launched an arts initiative, Zooz Elevate, whereby emerging artists and musicians will be selected to work in a specially created Zooz studio with a chance of having their work showcased to millions.

Buy Zooz direct at zoozdrinks.com/ or taste this fine drink in some of London’s high-end bars and hotels

RE :VIEW

Tour the flavours of India with Benares Mayfair's new chef’s tasting menu

Plus+

• Jasleen Kaur wins the Turner Prize 2024

• Ncuti Gatwa stars in The Importance of Being Earnest

• The Southbank Centre celebrates Nina Simone

• Save the Date: your global luxury calendar

FINE DINING | BENARES

Benares Mayfair is London’s definitive Indian fine dining

The Michelin-starred restaurant effortlessly combines local ingredients with show-stopping Indian flavour

Michelin-starred Indian restaurant

Benares has been situated on Berkeley Square for 21 years. In that time, it has defined – and redefined – what it means to perfect Indian fine dining for a British and international audience. Chef Sameer Taneja has held a Michelin star since 2021, thanks to his focus on “simple, clean and precise cooking” that combines local British ingredients, classic French technique, and Indian flavours.

Entering Benares is to leave the buzz of London behind. Its low-lit, slightly moody ambience begins at the entranceway, before rising the staircase to a comfortable lounge bar and three of the restaurant’s private dining rooms, including the wine cellar – where small parties or couples can experience a secluded meal among the impressive collection – and the chef’s table, which overlooks chef Sameer and his brigade.

In the main dining room, dark walls and mirrors lit by small lamps on each table are not quite a feast for the senses, but it soon becomes clear that this style is designed to let the food do the talking. Chef Sameer’s eight-course tasting menu is designed to showcase flavours from around India and delight the tastebuds at every turn.

We begin in Mumbai with classic street snacks: pakora pops, pani poori and a chicken manchow soup, paired with a sparkling wine and elderflower cocktail (my guest, native of Mumbai and street-food aficionado, gave these her immediate seal of approval).

From here, chef Sameer puts the spotlight on fresh fish as we enjoy a malaber scallop –perfectly tender and flavoured with delicate coconut curry – served in its shell, followed by a stunning tawa halibut with a Portsmouth clam moilee (a delectable Goan curry with coconut milk).

A sparkling tea of fennel, lemon and thyme clears the palate perfectly; the flavour recalling arrivals in glamorous destinations and hotel refreshments designed to bring the weary traveller back to life. After this, our sommelier Eduard Ciubotaru recommends a 2021 Dolceto D’Alba from Cascina Vano – an Italian red full

of fresh fruits, known for complimenting pasta and meat dishes and, as we find, absolutely versatile when paired with Asian spices and British meats.

The Hiran Boti Tikka that kicks off the second half of our experience is a succulent venison kebab cooked in charcoal and layered with curry and coriander muntjac, garlic yoghurt and chilli chutney. Food is often considered the key to unlocking our favourite memories, and so it is with this dish, which transports me to Rajasthan’s rooftops thanks to its freshness and delightful kick of spiced coriander. After, we enjoy a lamb chop pulao – a warming, beautifully seasoned curry dish with all the traditional trimmings: pilau rice, black dhal, freshly baked roti bread, yoghurt and chutney. Thanks to chef Sameer’s balanced flavours and careful portions, we are able to clear our plates comfortably, utterly satisfied, but still with room for dessert.

This comes in the form of a traditional rasmalai – an East Indian delicacy made with curdled milk, sugar, nuts, saffron and cardamoms. Incidentally, it's another of my colleague’s childhood favourites, and so successfully faces down a tough critic. Served with strawberries as a nod to British sensibility – and a subtle sign, perhaps, that we are coming to the end of our tour of India’s favourite dishes – this is the perfect treat with which to finish the meal.

At Benares, the understated ambience belies the burst of flavour in every bite. Every morsel is painstakingly prepared, portioned and presented to delight the senses and – in the tasting menu in particular – works flawlessly as a whole experience. While the friendly staff are, perhaps, slightly over-attentive as we are offered coffee and petit fours to finish the experience, Benares remains one of Mayfair’s crowning jewels, as chef Sameer continues to redefine fine Indian – and British – cuisine.

Berkeley Square, London W1J 6BS benaresrestaurant.com

Words: Michelle Johnson

Scottish artist Jasleen Kaur wins the Turner Prize 2024

Jasleen Kaur was announced the winner of the 40th Turner Prize on 3 December, with an installation that celebrates the intersection of political and personal within communities and cultures. Jasleen went up against a 2024 shortlist of impressive showcases of modern art by Delaine Le Bas, Pio Abad and Claudette Johnson, all of which are exhibited at the Tate Britain until 16 February.

Born in Glasgow, 38-year-old Jasleen’s installation uses everyday objects animated through sound and music to “summon community and cultural inheritance”. The Tate wrote: “The jury noted the considered way in which Kaur weaves together the personal, political and spiritual in her exhibition Alter Altar, choreographing a visual and aural experience that suggests both solidarity

and joy. They praised her ability to gather different voices through unexpected and playful combinations of material, from IrnBru to family photographs and a vintage Ford Escort, locating moments of resilience and possibility.”

One of the most talked about moments of her showcase was undoubtedly the red Ford Escort draped in an oversized doily (pictured) – which references her father’s first car as well as Indians who migrated to the UK and worked in textile factories.

This year’s Turner Prize shortlist was a celebration of the UK’s diverse culture.

Shortlisted artists included Delaine le Bas, whose installation uses painted fabrics, costume, film and sculpture to immerse the viewer in Roma culture through the themes of death, loss and renewal; Pio Adad presents drawings, sculptures and museum

artefacts that highlight overlooked culture in reference to cultural loss and colonial histories; while Claudette Johnson counters the marginalisation of black people in western art through a series of striking portraits of Black women and men, family and friends.

Tate Britain director and Turner Prize chair Alex Farquharson said: “This year’s artists each make vibrant and varied work that reflects not just their personal memories and familial stories, but also speaks to wider questions of identity, myth, belonging and community. Through their varied practices, they offer us a lens through which to reconsider both our tangled histories and our shared futures.”

Tate Britain, London. Until 16 February tate.org

Ncuti Gatwa treads the boards in The Importance of Being Earnest

Oscar Wilde’s wickedly subversive comedy takes on fresh life in this excellent production of The Importance of Being Earnest Doctor Who star Ncuti Gatwa (right) and Hugh Skinner assume false identities as ‘Earnest’ in a scheme to capture the hearts of two eligible ladies – and the approval of their guardian, Lady Bracknell, played by Olivier Award-winner Sharon D Clarke.

Directed by Max Webster, this outrageous and flamboyant reimagining of the celebrated comedy embodies Wilde’s famous wit. As the playwright said: “We should treat all the trivial things of life seriously, and all the serious things of life with sincere and studied triviality” – and this joyful play starts the new year by doing just that. Don’t miss the National’s impressive 2025 programme, which continues in February with playwright James Graham’s football drama Dear England

National Theatre, London. Until 25 January nationaltheatre.org.uk

MUSIC | THE SOUTHBANK CENTRE

Mississippi Goddam: A Celebration of Nina Simone

Part of The Southbank Centre’s collaboration with the Montreux Jazz Festival, this is an electrifying tribute to the life and music of jazz legend Nina Simone. The powerful singer-songwriter and civil rights activist is remembered today as a seminal American artist, with a style that ranged from gospel and blues to jazz and R&B. During her lifetime, Nina performed at both the Swiss jazz festival in 1976 and the Southbank Centre in 1999.

The concert, arranged by Nu Civilisation Orchestra, will be led by conductor Peter Edwards and feature special guests including Laura Mvula (left), Corinne Bailey Rae, neo-jazz singer Ni Maxine, singer-songwriter China Moses, jazz and electronic music producer and singer-songwriter Tony Njoku.

Southbank Centre, London. 31 January southbankcentre.co.uk

Your luxury events calendar for this season

Nobel Prize Ceremony

Held annually since 1901, the Nobel festivities honour the world’s most exceptional figures in politics, physics, chemistry, medicine, literature and more. Among this year’s celebrants is The Vegetarian author Han Kang and Peace Prize winner Nihon Hidankyo. nobelprize.org

26 Dec - 2 Jan 10 Dec 18 - 26 Jan

Sydney Hobart Yacht Race

112 yachts will compete in the 79th edition of the Rolex Sydney Hobart Yacht Race, with the gruelling 628-nautical-mile race launching from Sydney Harbour on Boxing Day. Competitors will battle the elements to arrive in Hobart seven days later. rolexsydneyhobart.com

2 Feb 16 Feb

The Grammy Awards America’s biggest music comes live from Las Vegas to celebrate pop and rock to jazz and spoken word. The star-studded show will see Taylor Swift, Beyoncé, Chappell Roan, Kendrick Lamar and Pearl Jam go head-tohead across 94 categories. grammys.com

British Academy Film Awards

The biggest night in British film returns to the Royal Albert Hall with a glittering guestlist as the industry celebrates a year in film. Last year, Oppenheimer, starring Cilian Murphy, and Poor Things, with Emma Stone, dominated the awards. bafta.org

While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, changes to event calendars may occur. Please check with individual event organisers for more information.

Boot Düsseldorf

More than 1,500 exhibitors from 67 nations will gather at the world’s largest yacht and watersports show. Sailors and motor boaters alike will have plenty to explore at the 220,000sqm exhibition, as well as spotlights on diving, surfing, skimboarding and more. boot.com

20 - 24 Feb

London Fashion Week

London becomes the world’s bestdressed city yet again as the maestros of womenswear, menswear and gender-neutral style hit the runways across the city. As well as city-wide showcases, don’t miss virtual meets, exhibitions and more. londonfashionweek.co.uk

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A natural transition

As the weather takes its seasonal turn, it’s time to invest in impeccable outerwear. Rikesh Chauhan highlights the stylish must-haves made using the world’s most luxurious and eco-friendly natural fibres

When it comes to luxurious garments, there’s nothing quite like enveloping yourself in a coat made from the best materials and designed by the world’s greatest artisans. It’s even better when the cloth is sustainably sourced and good for the environment. Wool, for example, is a natural fibre that is renewable, biodegradable and doesn’t damage the planet. With that in mind, here is a selection of coats that I’ve got on my wishlist for style, practicality and environmentally conscious purposes.

First up is an absolute knockout from Mackintosh. The Blanefield Gunclub Check Trench Coat is one of the most interesting

from the crowd. Crafted from gunclub check wool by Dormeuil, one of the world’s oldest fabric merchants, with endless design details. mackintosh.com

looking garments you’ll see, with a host of immaculate detail including the smart raglan sleeves with epaulettes, storm flaps with chest and back buttons, adjustable cuff buckles and a detachable belt. Made using a wool-cotton textile by Dormeuil, it’s a water-repellent trench that packs a punch in the most elegant of ways. The Chris Eubank of coats, if you will.

Inis Meáin are no strangers to crisp temperatures, given their geography – the brand hails from its namesake in the Aran Islands, situated off Ireland’s west coast – and if you’re after knitwear, you needn’t look anywhere else. That being said, while browsing their latest collection I noticed something I’ve not seen

before: a car coat, but made in an extra fine merino wool and cashmere, replete with a shawl collar. It’s basically a really, really long cardigan with car coat sensibility. Need I say more?

Last but certainly not least, the Navy Herringbone Martingale Coat by tastemakers Connolly is truly something else. I’ve always loved the timelessness of a good herringbone – from the intricacies of the weave to the flecks of colour and lustre. Made from 100% Tyrolean wool, the original style was originally intended for mountain people during harsh weather conditions. Today, it adorns some of the world’s best-dressed, and looks as at home at the pub as it does on the red carpet.

If you want to feel like you’re being hugged by clouds while still looking cool, this is the ultimate addition to your wardrobe. Made from cashmere and merino wool and designed to be worn casually oversized, features include a storm closure, integrated pockets and horn buttons. inismeain.ie

Herringbone

A versatile and stylish winter coat suited for a trip to the pub, an evening gala and everything in between. This Connolly staple is presented in Tyrolean Wool, with large patch pockets, branded horn buttons, a half-back Martingale belt and finished with a golden lining. connollyengland.com

Blanefield Brown Gunclub Check Wool Trench Coat by Mackintosh Blending timeless British heritage with enduring French elegance, this is an absolute essential if you’re after a trench coat that stands out

Shawl Collar Cashmere Car Coat by Inis Meáin

Navy

Wool Single Breasted Oversized Martingale Coat by Connolly