YourLuxury Africa Special Edition 2024:2025_01 by yourluxury

TREASURES of TIME

A luxury edit of the finest watches, jewels & indulgences

A NEW FIRST: THE 140TH ANNIVERSARY LIMITED EDITIONS

Harnessing the manufacture caliber B19, Breitling’s ﬁrst exclusive perpetual calendar chronograph movement. A tribute to 140 years of watchmaking innovation.

PREMIER B19 DATORA I NAVITIMER B19 CHRONOGRAPH I SUPER CHRONOMAT B19

PREMIER B19 DATORA I NAVITIMER B19 CHRONOGRAPH I SUPER CHRONOMAT

55 SYMPHONY OF LUXURY & INNOVATION: The BMW 7 Series continues to raise the standards in automotive luxury

A UNIVERSE IN EVERY TICK: Science, art, and craftsmanship combine in celestial complications

NATURE’S MIRACLES: Explore the inﬂ uence of nature on jewellery design

A LOVE LETTER TO AFRICA: Botswana’s Xigera Safari Lodge celebrates the continent’s creativity 18

treasures TIME LESS

More than two years have passed since the launch of YourLuxury Africa, a multi-platform media house that has taken readers on a journey through the world of all things luxury. It’s been a glamorous voyage, and each time we put an issue to bed, we marvel at how far we’ve come in such a short time.

The Special Edition in your hands is our third annual celebration, and is one in which we celebrate the extraordinary – where rarity, precision, and beauty converge in watches and jewels. Each piece and experience featured in this issue represents more than aesthetics; they are marvels of artistry, innovation, and dedication to

a craft perfected over generations – a testament to the passion of artisans who have spent countless hours reﬁning their skills. The intricacies of a tourbillon, the brilliance of a perfectly cut diamond, the scent proﬁle of a unique fragrance – all carefully curated wonders that expand our appreciation for true luxury. But perhaps the greatest luxury of all is the privilege of being able to enjoy these treasures. To be guided through your day by a watch that is not only a timepiece but a legacy, or to wear a piece of jewellery that carries with it stories of dedication and heritage – that is a rare pleasure.

In a time where immediacy often overshadows the allure of the exceptional, we invite you to pause and immerse yourself in the beauty that lies within.

IT’S A WRAP!

Clockwise from left: Theodore Molebatsi, Ingrid Wood, Kay Kay Ribane, Judd van Rensburg, Vusi Ngcobo, Papama Ramogase, Alex Botha, Nicole Alves, and Yvonne Sha (centre).

JOIN US ONLINE

If you’ve enjoyed this issue, join us at yourluxury.africa for more of the luxe life. There you will ﬁnd carefully curated luxury content from Africa and beyond – food and drinks, travel, style, beauty, art, and of course watches and jewels. Don’t forget to follow us on Instagram and Facebook where you can enter our fabulous competition (see page 54 for details).

EDITORIAL: EDITOR Ingrid Wood ingrid@yourluxury.africa MANAGING EDITOR Lerato Tshabalala lerato@yourluxury.africa CREATIVE DIRECTOR Kate Walters COPY EDITOR Tamlyn Cumings PROOFREADER/CONTRIBUTOR Leigh Herringer PRODUCTION AND IMAGE EDITOR Coralie Elske CONTRIBUTOR Debbie Hathway HEAD OF DIGITAL Jessica Levitt

ADVERTISING & MARKETING: MD Yvonne Sha +27 (82) 903 5641 I yvonne@yourluxury.africa ADVERTISING CO-ORDINATOR Yvette Mehl + 27 (21) 439 4907 I yvette@yourluxury.africa MANAGEMENT: MANAGING DIRECTOR & PUBLISHER Yvonne Sha DISTRIBUTION & PRINT:

DISTRIBUTION On the Dot, Media Support PRINTED BY Novus Print, Cape Town for YourLuxury: PO Box 1053, Sea Point 8060, Cape Town. All rights reserved. Whereas precautions have been taken to ensure the accuracy of information, neither the editor nor YourLuxury Africa can be held liable for any inaccuracies, injury or damages that may arise. The opinions expressed in the articles may not reﬂect those of the publisher.

1. Patek Philippe Golden Ellipse (Ref 5738). 18kt gold dial plate, rose gold case, chain-style bracelet, and engraved fold-over clasp, POA, patek.com. Image supplied.

2. Bvlgari set the stage for a dazzling 2024 when it welcomed in the Lunar New Year with its special editions, including the magniﬁcent Bvlgari diamond and emerald Serpenti Dragoni bracelet. Image supplied.

3. BMW 7 Series. Photographer: Pieter Pieters. Model: Bisi @ Ice Models, Serge @ Boss Models. Stylist: Papama Ramogase. Hair and make-up: Naazi Laher.

4. Gra Tilda’s Bow diamond necklace and earrings, and Butterﬂy diamond ring. Photographer: Judd van Rensburg. Model: Nicole @ Boss Models. Stylist: Papama Ramogase. Hair: Saadique Ryklief. Make-up: Alex Botha.

BIG BANG INTEGRATED TIME ONLY

Light blue ceramic case with integrated bracelet. Self-winding movement.

D A N C IN G G E M S

WHETHER SLEEK AND SUBTLE OR LAVISH AND LOUD, SAUTOIRS ARE MAKING A DAZZLING COMEBACK

Sautoirs – from the French sauter, meaning “to jump”, and supposedly named as such due to the way the beads or gems dance as they move on the body – have been around since the 17th century. At this year’s Watches and Wonders, we saw a resurgence of the long necklaces, now with a dose of delicious decadence thanks to the abundant use of diamonds and precious stones. Whether you layer them or choose to wear only one showpiece, we love the versatility and effortless style of sautoirs.

Chanel Bust Long Necklace Couture showcases a diamond-swathed miniature dressmaker’s mannequin suspended from a gold chain. POA, chanel.com

REDEFINING OPULENCE, THE INTRICATELY SET GEMS ON THESE COVETED PIECES REFLECT THE INGENUITY AND CREATIVITY OF THE BRANDS’ CRAFTSMEN

ENCHANTING embellishments

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: Cartier Crocodile Jewellery Watch, rhodium-finish white gold case, dial, bracelet and crocodile set with tourmalines, sapphires, emeralds, brilliant-cut diamonds (9.8ct), cabochon-cut emerald eyes, POA, cartier.com; Van Cleef & Arpels Métiers D’Art Lady Arpels Jour Enchanté watch, 41mm case in white gold and diamonds. Dial in white gold, yellow gold, pink and yelllow sapphires, spessartite garnets, diamonds, turquoise set within the plique-à-jour enamel. Self-interchangeable leather bracelet, POA, vancleefarpels.com; Bvlgari Giardino Marino Grande High Jewellery Secret Watch, 18kt rose and white gold case and bracelet set with diamonds, emeralds, blue and pink sapphires, Paraiba tourmalines, tanzanites, green and pink tourmalines, mandarin garnets, rubellites, peridots and rock crystals, and snow-set diamond dial. Two detachable elements to be worn as earrings, POA, bulgari.com; Fabergé x Beetlejuice Beetlejuice Spiral Earrings in 18kt white gold, two-tone red UV enamel and round brilliant cut white diamonds, responsibly mined round Gemfields Mozambican ruby, POA, faberge.com; Patek Phillipe Twenty-4 (4910/1201R) with embossed and purple lacquered dial, rose gold case highlighted by two rows of 17 brilliant-cut diamonds (0.63ct) and rose gold bracelet, POA, patek.com; Roger Dubuis Excalibur Sunrise double flying tourbillon 45mm (RDDBEX1130), pink gold case and bezel set with 72 stones, pink gold coated dial with hour markers set with nine stones, boutique exclusive, limited to eight pieces, POA, rogerdubuis.com; Dior Grand Soir Automate Miroir D’Eau N° 5, 38mm quartz ETA in diamonds, yellow, pink and white gold, blue and pink sapphires, rubies, amethysts, iolites and mother of pearl, POA, dior.com; Girard-Perregaux Laureato 34mm High Jewellery watch in a pink gold case with 1 791 brilliant cut diamonds and a crown set with an amethyst, Geneva boutique exclusive, POA, girard-perregaux.com

ti-ceramitechtm case

3-day automatic

500 m water resistance

JOHANNESBURG: SANDTON CITY - PANERAI BOUTIQUE. MELROSE ARCH - ELEGANCE JEWELLERS

SHOPPING CENTRE - THE VAULT

YELLOW GOLD, LONG ADMIRED FOR ITS RICH LUSTER AND TIMELESS ELEGANCE, HAS RECLAIMED ITS THRONE IN THE WORLD OF LUXURY, AND WE’RE CELEBRATING ITS RADIANT RETURN

(103897), 26mm yellow gold case, yellow gold bezel and crown, leather

crafted from recycled gold, R28 000, latelierparis.co.za 3. Gem Dior timepiece in 27mm

and

POA, dior.com 4. Annamaria

POA, bulgari.com 2. Lepage Alba Collection

with yellow gold, lapis lazuli,

Dune earrings, 18kt yellow sunrise gold and diamonds, from €4 390, annamariacammilli.com 5. Czapek Antarctique Mount Erebus with deep blue dial and yellow gold case and bracelet, POA, czapek.com 6. Tudor Black Bay 58 39mm in 18kt yellow gold case, POA, tudorwatch.com 7. Chanel Première Charms Couture in yellow gold-plated steel and black lacquer, attached to a bracelet interwoven with leather, POA, chanel.com 8. Messika Care(s) Bracelet Cordon in beige cord and yellow gold diamond bracelet, R30 150, bhhboutique.co.za 9. FOPE Flex’it Luna 18kt yellow gold bracelet, R167 000, charlesgreig.co.za 10. Bellagio 18kt yellow gold claw set emerald tennis Bayede necklace, POA, bellagiojewellers.co.za

1. Bvlgari Bvlgari

strap,

necklace

steel case,

sapphire, malachite,

diamonds,

Cammilli

THE TREND OF SMALLER WATCHES ISN’T NEW, BUT THEY’VE GAINED POPULARITY AGAIN. IT’S NOT JUST THE COMPACT CASES DRIVING THIS TREND, INNOVATIVE MOVEMENTS PLAY A PIVOTAL ROLE TOO

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP:

Small BUT

MIGHTY

Kaia Gerber wears the Omega Constellation 28mm in classic steel and Moonshine™ gold, R235 000, omegawatches.com; Baume et Mercier Riviera 33mm, stainless-steel bezel, satin-ﬁnished candy pink rubber strap, R59 700, baume-et-mercier.com; Bvlgari Lucea 33mm, steel and rose gold case and bezel, rose gold crown set with a cabochon-cut synthetic sapphire and diamond, white mother-of-pearl dial and hour markers set with 12 diamonds, POA, bulgari.com; Victorinox ladies’ I.N.O.X., 32mm steel case with gold PVD ﬁnish, and hands and indices with SuperLuminova® coating, R12 995, victorinox.com; Longines The Mini DolceVita 21.50mm x 29.00mm stainless-steel case, set with 38 Top Wesselton diamonds, double tour strap in pink Nappa leather, R86 000, longines.com; Chopard Happy Sport 33mm, diamond-pavéd bezel, guilloché centred dial with aquamarines and diamonds, glossy aquamarine leather strap, POA, chopard.com; Pequignet Moorea 25mm in steel, opaline white dial with 12 diamond indexes, case 6.25mm thick, bezel set with 55 diamonds, steel hour and minutes hands coated in Super-Luminova® (blue), €3 100, pequignet.com; Breitling Navitimer 32mm, stainless-steel case, blue mother-of-pearl dial, blue leather strap, R94 900, breitling.com

Grandeur VINTAGEINSPIRED

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP:

Louis Vuitton High Jewellery Deep Time II Myriad Necklace in brilliant white gold with LV Monogram Star cut diamonds in a woven mesh of diamonds, POA, louisvuitton.com; The Aurora collection from Yoko London features rare, naturally coloured Australian South Sea, Tahitian, Golden Indonesian, and freshwater pearls set in an intricate mesh of diamonds and 18kt white gold, POA, yokolondon.com; Jacob & Co. Diamond Riviera Necklace from the High Jewellery Collection, featuring 63.05ct round brilliant cut diamonds set in platinum, POA, jacobandco.com; Chopard Red Carpet Collection Choker in ethical 18kt white gold composed of emerald beads (301.98ct), set with heart-shaped emeralds (17.29ct), marquise-cut (56.34ct) and brilliant-cut (2.32ct) diamonds, POA, chopard.com; De Beers Forces of Nature Protection Choker Necklace with gold beads and pavé-set diamonds, adorned with a 5.19ct Fancy Intense yellow cushion-cut diamond and detachable fringe of gold beads, POA, debeers.com; Messika Midnight Sun Opus 2 necklace with a 3.55ct pear-shaped diamond in a yellow gold bezel, and sculptural ear cu s. POA, messika.com

TRADITIONALLY ASSOCIATED WITH ROYALTY AND ARISTOCRACY, CHOKERS COMBINE FINE

ARTISTRY WITH REGAL DESIGN. THE SNUG FIT ON THE NECK ALLOWS DESIGNERS TO EXPLORE INTRICATE, SCULPTURAL FORMS THAT SHOWCASE THE BRILLIANCE OF RARE GEMS

RAIN B W

nation

THERE’S BEEN A FLASH OF TECHNICOLOURED TIMEPIECES AND JEWELS ALL BOASTING A BEVY OF COLOURFUL GEMS, PERFECT FOR SOME SUMMER DAZZLE

Hublot

CLOCKWISE FROM ABOVE:

Big Bang Integrated King Gold Rainbow 42mm in 18kt king gold set with 120 coloured gemstones, POA, hublot.com; Picchiotti Fine Jewellery yellow gold necklace with diamonds and turquoise ceramic, POA, picchiotti.it; Chopard Red Carpet Collection ring (828978-1001) in ethical 18kt white gold featuring a 9.84ct black opal cabochon, surrounded by brilliant-cut (8.30ct) and marquise-cut (4.06ct) diamonds, POA, chopard.com; Franck Muller New Vanguard Revolution 3 Skeleton Rainbow triple-axis tourbillon with case and crown and buckle handset with 28.4ct and 1.87ct baguette-cut gems respectively, POA, franckmuller.com; Dolce&Gabbana Alta Gioielleria earrings with multicolour tourmalines, tanzanites, peridots, and diamonds, POA, dolcegabbana.com; Breitling Superocean Automatic 42mm with rainbow dial and turquoise rubber strap, R115 800, breitling.com; F.P. Journe élégante Gino’s Dream features a bezel with 52 baguette-cut stones in rainbow hues and yellow strap. The dial is fully luminescent, POA, fpjourne.com; Blancpain Ladybird Colors 34.9mm, mother-ofpearl dial and 18kt white-gold case set with 59 diamonds, POA, blancpain.com; Charriol Navigator Surf 41mm with yellow rubber strap and stainless-steel folding buckle with double push buttons, POA, charriol.com

JENNIFER LAWRENCE

LA GRANDE CLASSIQUE DE LONGINES

SCENTS

Scent-sation

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT:

Memo African Leather has all the warmth and character that our continent is renowned for. Warm, spicy notes of cardamom and sa ron, a ﬂoral touch of geranium and a leather accord will transport you to an African sunset. R5 800 for 75ml EDP, skins.co.za

Amouage Gold Man EDP is a luxurious dry chypre fragrance. Notes of frankincense, myrrh, orris, jasmine musk, patchouli, and wood add a rich and traditional man-about-town trail. R7 705, Selected independents, Arc, Skins stores, and online

Ferragamo Red Leather has a citrus leather scent, mixing the warm nuances of vetiver, spiciness of ginger, and uplifting sandalwood for a surprising freshness. The famous horseshoe-like clasp, the Ferragamo Gancini, adds a signature touch to the glass ﬂacon. R2 799 for 100ml EDP, edgars.co.za

An aromatic woody fragrance with amber and musky notes, Bleu de Chanel continues to be a gift of choice. This season you can get double the delight with the Bleu de Chanel 50ml Case Parfum and 90ml 3-in-1 Moisturiser, R4 040, Chanel Fragrance & Beauty Boutiques

YSL MYSLF is the brand’s first floral twist on a traditional woody fragrance. A real statement, it’s a blend of bergamot, rich orange blossom, warm patchouli, and musky amber. R2 750 for 100ml refillable EDP, edgars.co.za

Penhaligon’s The Dandy is penned as a “woody celebration of whisky blended with mischief and a homage to endless nights”. Aged whisky, a twist of bergamot, a fresh burst of raspberry, and a syrupy ﬁnish, it’s the perfect tonic for the festive season. 100ml EDP, R4 710, skins.co.za

MASTER OF MATERIALS

CAPTAIN COOK HIGH-TECH CERAMIC SKELETON

of a Scentswoman

WITH HINTS OF GOLD AND A TOUCH OF JEWELS, THESE LADIES’ FRAGRANCES ARE A MEETING OF BEAUTY AND BRILLIANCE

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT:

Perfumer Guy Robert melded more than 120 essences to create the opulent Amouage Gold Woman. Notes of frankincense, lily of the valley, orris, jasmine, myrrh, and sandalwood means a little goes a long way. R7 705 for 100ml EDP, Available at selected independents, Arc and Skins

Part of the Estée Lauder Luxury Collection, Paradise Moon is the richest, boldest fragrance in the collection. A ﬂoral fragrance with leather notes, it has an unexpected nectar-like aura thanks to the osmanthus ﬂowers. R3 465 for 100ml EDP, esteelauder.co.za

Yves Saint Laurent Libre, it’s ﬁrst ﬂoral lavender scent, is bold with a feminine twist and sensual edge from the orange blossom. The iconic Cassandre logotype is bent around the glass like an oversized jewel, complete with golden chains. R3 400 for 90ml EDP, woolworths.co.za

The limited edition Chanel N°5 EDP reﬁllable Purse Spray is the perfect ready-to-wear perfume. The jewellery chain, adorned with Gabrielle Chanel’s lucky number ﬁve, can also be worn on the wrist. R3 980 for 3 x 75ml, Chanel Fragrance & Beauty Boutiques

Dolce&Gabbana Devotion Intense is inspired by an olfactory journey through Italy, with notes of hazelnut, orange blossom, and a sensual base of Madagascan vanilla. The amber bottle is adorned with the symbolic gold metal Sacred Heart and matching cap. R3 815 for 100ml EDP, selected beauty retailers

Maison Francis Kurkdjian APOM (A Part of Me) is described as carnal, sensual, and intimate. A ﬂoral, aromatic, ambery fragrance, it’s a beautiful balance of lavender, orange blossom, ylang-ylang, vanilla, and white musk. R4 470 for 100ml EDP, skins.co.za

With its opulent bouquet of white ﬂowers, Chopard’s Sparkling Love celebrates the dazzling energy of diamonds. The crystalline cap reﬂects the precise lines of the stone, while the Love Chopard heart in gold encircles the bottle. R2 750 for 100ml EDP, selected beauty retailers

The Diamond Dust oversize illuminating powder gives a dazzling, pearly glow to the complexion – the perfect seasonal accessory.

giftmagicthe of

The N°5 L’Eau EDT reﬁllable purse spray with its innovative jewellery chain allows you to prolong your scent throughout the day.

For eyes and cheeks that sparkle and shine, the Enchanted Night eyeshadow and blush palette features hues

THE LIMITED-EDITION CHANEL HOLIDAY COLLECTION IS AN INVITATION TO INDULGE

Starry skies, silvery snowﬂakes, and sparkling icicles are given an unexpected twist by makeup artist Valentina Li to depict a colour-shifting Arctic phenomenon in the limitededition Chanel Holiday Collection. Think charming fuchsia, vibrant pink, and fresh coral on the eyes and lips against a frosty backdrop. For the scent, the wintery tale continues with shimmering touches to the iconic House Fragrances.

From brick red to purple brown, the intense Rouge Allure L’Extrait high-intensity lip colour lights up the lips.

The N°5 Beige Gold Body Oil envelops the skin with a satin sheen and leaves a sensual fragrance trail of the iconic scent. colour up

inspired by aurora borealis.

The classic N°5 EDP takes on a unique allure draped in a delicate mantle of snow woven from silk.

The metallic vibrant pink of Le Vernis nail colour in Charmer (191) is the holiday season on your ﬁngertips.

flyingsolo

1. Louis Vuitton Horizon Light Up Speaker puts on a lightshow that synchronises to the beat, R59 320, louisvuitton.com 2. Carl Friedrik x Hackett London The Carry-On, R11 200, The Check-In, R13 500, and Compact Weekender, R11 500, all limited edition, carlfriedrik.com 3. IWC’s Top Gun Ceratanium allows you to set another time and date for a new time zone at a single turn of the bezel (Ref: IW395505), R356 000, iwc.com Jet-set in silence with Montblanc’s grey MB 01 Over-Ear Headphones in aluminium, soft leather, and silicone, R11 900, montbanc.com 5. Kate Sunley handcrafted wood backgammon boards are available in leopard, butterﬂy, pastel, leopard print, or lobster designs, R5 800, katesunley.com 6. You’ll thank us later for the Black Elephant Vintners Insulated Wine Tank, perfect for wine on the go, R1 750, blackelephantvintners.co.za Keep your gear safe in the Thule Enroute Camera Backpack 20L, R3 699, thule.com FROM GAMES AND GADGETS TO LUXE LUGGAGE, THESE ITEMS WILL MAKE YOUR NEXT TRIP AS REWARDING AS THE HOLIDAY ITSELF

TCameron’ (44mm) honours the legendary ﬁlmmaker and explorer’s historic solo dive. It features Oystersteel with a Cerachrom bezel insert in black ceramic on an Oyster bracelet.

Robust and bold, TAG Heuer’s Aquaracer Professional 200 Date (30mm, steel, automatic) has been constructed with incentive in mind, inspiring the wearer to push the limits.

In keeping with 007’s timeless approach to style, OMEGA’s tribute to 60 years of Bond is the classic Seamaster Diver 300m (42mm, cased in stainless steel). It has a blue oxalic anodised dial with laser-engraved waves, inspired by the version worn by James Bond in 1995’s GoldenEye

With its discreet proﬁle, classic style, and aesthetic variations, the Longines Mini DolceVita (21.50mm x 29mm, stainless steel case) is a small but mighty masterpiece that is at once timeless and timeous.

The Zenith Defy Skyline Skeleton (41mm, ceramic octagon case) has a blue open dial that revisits the emblematic Zenith four-pointed star. It’s powered by the El Primero 3620 SK high-frequency automatic manufacture skeleton movement.

To mark its return to motorsport, Tudor created an exclusive team-version of its Master Chronometer certiﬁed Black Bay Ceramic (41mm), giving fans the opportunity to have the same watch as the drivers. It comes with a blue dial that matches the Visa Cash App RB Formula 1 team’s livery.

THESE STRIKING WATCHES DEFINE COLLECTABILITY

STYLE Carryin

WHETHER YOU’RE OFF TO A CHIC DINNER PARTY, LUNCH AT THE BEACH, OR A ROMANTIC NIGHT AWAY, THERE’S A BAG FOR WHEREVER LIFE TAKES YOU

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP:

Tyler Ellis Grace Pouch in petite emerald satin, $2 000, tylerellis.com; Chopard Happy Hearts hand-woven grained leather micro tote with removable zipped pocket and removable, adjustable leather shoulder strap, POA, picotandmoss.co.za; Louis Vuitton Twist West Pochette in grained Epi leather with removable, adjustable strap and detachable chain, R51 500, louisvuitton.com; Bvlgari Serpentine medium pouch in gold and ivory chévron fabric with ivory nappa leather lining, R68 100, bulgari.com; Montblanc Extreme 3.0 medium leather du e bag with M LOCK 4810 buckle and removable shoulder strap, R33 900, montblanc.com; Carol Bouwer Momo Clutch Bag in python skin, R40 000, carolbouwerbags.com

When make-up artist and photographer François Nars launched global makeup brand NARS Cosmetics with 12 lipsticks in 1994, he redeﬁned how women wore make-up. Today, he continues to shift boundaries with his innovative products and quality colour pigments, while his signature creativity comes through in the cheeky names and campaigns growing a cult following of ‘NARSissists’. To celebrate its 30th anniversary, the NARS icons are once again in the spotlight. These are some ﬁrm favourites…

“I love finding inspiration from the past, it helps me move forward into the future”

François Nars, Founder & Creative Director

Inspired by the formula that started it all, the reﬁllable EXPLICIT LIPSTICK – with its precision-tip for easy application and Luxe Comfort Complex to treat the lips – comes in 28 fearless shades.

30years of

beauty

NARS COSMETICS IS ALL ABOUT UNAPOLOGETIC SELF-EXPRESSION

The award-winning Light Reﬂecting Foundation celebrates François Nars’ philosophy of naturally luminous skin that is lit from within. It may be new, but has quickly become an essential.

A top-selling blush for nearly three decades, Powder Blush pops, sculpts, and highlights for up to 16 hours. The innovative combination of four blendable pigments helps blur any imperfections.

A perfect summer accessory, the new Laguna Collection features bronzing essentials in nine global shades for all skin tones to deliver warm, natural-looking colour.

rule-breaking

The ultra-luxurious Radiant Creamy Concealer contains the Multi-Active Botanical Blend, which helps the skin retain moisture for 24 hours. It comes in 30 skin-tone spanning shades to brighten, correct, and perfect.

One drop of Liquid Blush is all it takes for a lasting, naturallooking glow. The buildable and blendable formula allows you to customise your look, and the fact that it’s transfer resistant is an added win.

Givenchy GVDAY,

Bvlgari Serpenti Viper, R14

Louis Vuitton Moon Metal Square,

Stella McCartney 2001, limited colour, R6 050, picotandmoss.co.za

HERMÈS H08, TIME, A HERMÈS OBJECT

ABOVE:

5077/100G-070 – The Constellation Sagittarius adorns a limited edition Patek Philippe Calatrava. The celestial background and zodiac symbol appear in grisaille enamel with blanc de Limoges, enhanced by opalescent and opaque enamels for the Milky Way. Gold wire outlines the constellation.

A UNIVERSE IN EVERY TICK

A CELESTIAL COMPLICATION WATCH IS ARGUABLY THE ULTIMATE PIECE OF WEARABLE ART, DEMONSTRATING THE HARMONY OF SCIENCE, ART, AND CRAFTSMANSHIP WORDS DEBBIE HATHWAY

In the world of horology, celestial complication watches represent the pinnacle of craftsmanship, merging science with art. These watches are designed to capture astronomical cycles such as the moon’s phases, the stars’ positions, and even the precise orbits of planets. Highly skilled watchmakers combine precision engineering with a fascination for the cosmos, creating celestial complications that bridge a watch’s microcosm and the universe’s macrocosm.

“Celestial complication watches represent the pinnacle of craftsmanship, merging science with art”

ABOVE:

Van Cleef & Arpels Lady Jour Nuit: A 33mm white gold case with diamonds houses a dial of aventurine glass, mother of pearl, yellow and white gold, and diamonds. The watch features a rotating 24-hour disc where a guilloché sun marks the day, and a diamond-set moon glides through a starry night.

Louis Moinet Black Moon: Limited to 60 pieces, this watch introduces a world-ﬁrst lunar cycle display with two meteorite fragments representing the full and new moon on a domed disc. The precise mechanism, driven by a 135-tooth gear, deviates only one day every 122 years.

A celestial complication might display the current phase of the moon as seen from Earth – an essential tool for those who once navigated by sea or consulted the lunar calendar. It could also feature a star chart reﬂecting the night sky visible from a speciﬁc location or include the equation of time, which indicates the di erence between solar time (based on the sun’s position) and standard time. These functions capture the Earth’s elliptical orbit and axial tilt, while tidal indicators are helpful for mariners tracking high and low tides. Some watches also incorporate perpetual calendars that account for leap years, equinoxes, and other astronomical events.

Historically, perpetual calendar mechanisms, which show the correct day of the month even in leap years, were found in clocks from the ﬁrst half of the 18th century. As GH Baillie notes in Watches, Their History, Decoration and Mechanism, this feature was “ﬁtted in watches only in the second half, and then only very rarely.” For instance, the extraordinary clock in Notre Dame’s Strasbourg Cathedral keeps the calendar accurate over centuries, omitting a leap year in 1900 and including it in 2000.

These features are more than ornamental; they o er a glimpse into the cosmos, reﬂecting humanity’s age-old fascination with the stars and our place in the universe. Originally, celestial complications were practical tools for astronomers, explorers, and mariners to navigate and track time by observing heavenly bodies. Today, they serve a di erent purpose: showcasing the watchmaker’s miniaturisation skill and mechanically simulating complex astronomical cycles.

Owning a celestial complication watch is akin to possessing a piece of wearable art – one that demonstrates the harmony of science, art, and craftsmanship. Their value is heavily inﬂuenced by the complexity and precision of their mechanisms and the rare skills involved, particularly in the métiers d’art applied to the moon phase displays and dial and movement decorations. Watches that accurately simulate the moon’s 29.53-day cycle to the minute or chart the positions of planets in real time are rare and highly coveted. The expertise required to create these intricate mechanisms – often by hand – means that only a few pieces are produced each year, further driving their value.

ANTI-CLOCKWISE FROM TOP: Luminor Perpetual Calendar GMT Platinumtech™ PAM00715: A boutique-exclusive Panerai timepiece featuring leap year, time zone, perpetual calendar, hours, minutes, small seconds, day of the week, year, and power reserve functions.

Krayon Anywhere: Powered by a patented dual-cam mechanism, this watch accounts for latitude, longitude, time zone, date, and the equation of time, and accurately displays sunrise and sunset times for any location. It o ers unmatched accuracy for 10 000 years.

Frederique Constant x seconde/seconde/: The playful Slimline Moonphase Date Manufacture highlights manual assembly and inhouse movements with a cheeky twist. The watch is limited to 100 pieces in steel and 10 pieces in steel with rose gold accents.

Patek Philippe 5160/500R-001: The Retrograde Perpetual Calendar in rose gold, with handengraved volutes and foliage, is inspired by a museum pocket watch. Portugieser Perpetual Calendar 44: This IWC watch features small hacking seconds, Pellaton automatic winding, a seven-day power reserve with display, and a perpetual calendar showing the date, day, month, year in four digits, and moon phase.

This exclusivity is reﬂected in auction results, where nearly half of the 25 most expensive watches sold featured celestial complications. Patek Philippe dominated with nine lots, while Rolex had one. George Daniels, the renowned independent British watchmaker, had two: the Yellow Gold Space Traveller’s I pocket watch ($4.561 million, 2019, Sotheby’s) and the Yellow Gold Space Traveller’s II pocket watch ($4.325 million, 2017, Sotheby’s). Patek Philippe’s Grandmaster Chime Ref. 6300A-010, a unique piece sold by Christie’s in 2019, fetched $31.19 million – a record-breaking price to support Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy research at the Only Watch auction.

Vacheron Constantin also holds a prestigious position with the King Fuad I No. 402833, sold for $2.77 million in 2005. This watch features two striking functions powered by separate gear trains, a grande and petite sonnerie with three gongs and two hammers, a split-seconds chronograph, and a perpetual calendar with both moon phase and age of the moon indications.

In 2024, the horological world has seen remarkable new additions to the category of celestial complication watches, showcasing both traditional craftsmanship and modern innovation. Among the most noteworthy is the Vacheron Constantin Les Cabinotiers – The Berkley Grand Complication, revealed in April. Announced as the world’s most complicated watch, it features a Chinese perpetual calendar programmed until 2200 and a world record 63 horological complications. It required 11 years of research and development by a dedicated team of three watchmakers and a commissioner.

But why are these watches so valuable? Several factors contribute to their price:

COMPLEXITY AND CRAFTSMANSHIP: These watches require hundreds, if not thousands, of components to work in perfect harmony. The skill needed to assemble and adjust these tiny parts, often by hand, adds immense value.

RARITY: Limited production runs, often due to their di culty, make these watches highly exclusive. Collectors are willing to pay a premium for their rarity.

ARTISTIC MERIT: These watches are visually stunning beyond functionality. Their use of precious metals, high-quality enamel, and artistic engravings makes them desirable pieces of wearable art.

INNOVATION: Combining traditional watchmaking techniques with modern technology, such as computer-aided design and new materials, has resulted in more accurate and durable watches without losing their classic appeal.

Celestial complication watches are more than just timekeepers; they are a testament to the ingenuity of human craftsmanship and our enduring fascination with the cosmos. ■

ABOVE:

Vacheron Constantin Les Cabinotiers – The Berkley Grand Complication: This masterpiece has 63 complications and 2 877 components. It features an unprecedented Chinese perpetual calendar programmed through to 2200, a result of 11 years of development.

BELOW:

Breguet Classique Quantième Perpétuel 7327: Featuring a perpetual calendar with a four-year mechanical memory, this ultra-thin 4.5mm movement accounts for variable month lengths and leap years.

Konstantin Chaykin’s Stargazer: The most complicated watch ever made in Russia, it has two partially skeletonised dials: the Dark side includes a regulator for mean solar time, length of day and night, equation of time, and a miniature planisphere, while the Light side offers a tourbillon, a four-stage discrete moonphase indicator, and sunrise/sunset azimuth indicators.

MAIN COMPLICATIONS OF CELESTIAL WATCHES MEASUREMENTS OF TIME

MOON PHASE: Displays the current phase of the moon (new, first quarter, full, or last quarter) as seen from Earth. It tracks the moon’s 29.53-day cycle around Earth.

STAR CHART: A rotating map of the night sky visible from a specific location on Earth, showing the positions of stars and constellations.

EQUATION OF TIME: Shows the difference between “solar time” (time based on the sun’s position) and “mean time” (standard 24-hour clock time). It accounts for the Earth’s elliptical orbit and axial tilt.

PERPETUAL CALENDAR WITH CELESTIAL CYCLES: An advanced calendar that adjusts automatically for the different lengths of months, leap years, and other astronomical events, without needing manual correction.

SOLAR TIME: Time based on the sun’s position in the sky. A “solar day” is when the sun returns to the same spot in the sky, averaging about 24 hours.

MEAN TIME: The standard 24-hour time used in daily life. It averages out the variations in solar time over a year to create a consistent timekeeping system.

SIDEREAL TIME: Timekeeping based on Earth’s rotation relative to fixed stars, rather than the sun. A sidereal day is about four minutes shorter than a solar day (23 hours, 56 minutes). It is used by astronomers to track the positions of celestial objects.

Nature’s

mira cles

MOTHER NATURE IS A GARDEN OF IMAGINATION, WITH AN ENDURING INFLUENCE ON WEARABLE ART WORDS DEBBIE HATHWAY

From our earliest scribbles to the masterpieces of adulthood by those of us blessed with artistic talent, nature has always been a favourite muse. It’s no wonder that flowers, leaves, and trees are among the first forms we create – simple yet mesmerising reflections of the world around us. Think of how a child uses crayons or pencils to create their early versions of flowers – simple, colourful, imaginative –and how, during trying times like lockdown, people sought ways to feel grounded and calm, and colouring flowers, botanical gardens, mandalas, and nature scenes provided a therapeutic escape.

OPPOSITE:

At Cartier, dragons symbolise the contemplation and sharing of beauty and the Tatsu necklace from the Nature Sauvage high jewellery collection, embodies this spirit. The Chinese dragon, holding a pendant with two Mozambican rubies, showcases a striking red-and-black contrast, reﬂecting both Asian art and Cartier’s signature colour palette.

ABOVE:

A familiar species in the Cartier menagerie, the joyful ﬂamingo in the Celestun necklace, also from the Nature Sauvage collection, is surrounded by a myriad of emeralds evoking a bed of reeds, culminating in a 38,5ct aquamarine set in a pendant.

LEFT:

The Fabergé limited-edition 18kt Yellow Gold Yellow Guilloché Enamel Egg Objet with Cactus Surprise has an enamel shell that opens to reveal a delicate handpainted cactus surprise on an 18kt yellow gold guilloché base.

AN EMOTIONAL RESPONSE TO NATURE

Nature’s influence on jewellery design is as old as the art form itself. From ancient civilisations using natural materials like shells and stones to adorn themselves to 19th-century jewellery where floral motifs symbolised love and beauty, nature has always been cherished. The Art Nouveau movement (late 19th and early 20th centuries) embraced this inspiration more expressively. Artisans like René Lalique transformed vines, flowers, and insects into sinuous, flowing forms, breaking away from rigid, geometric designs to celebrate the vitality of the living world. Modern luxury houses continue this legacy by using a range of innovative interpretations.

Creating ﬂower-inspired jewels allows designers to evoke that sense of wonder, joy, and purity, but now with many layers of meaning using symbolism, sentiment, cultural references, the emotional power of gemstones, and even memories of personal gardens or childhood experiences. The emotional thread remains consistent, but the sophistication of expression deepens over time. By experimenting with new materials such as gold, diamonds, and rare gemstones, jewellery designers turn these raw materials into sculptural masterpieces that reﬂect nature’s complexity.

“By experimenting with new materials such as gold, diamonds, and rare gemstones, jewellery designers turn these raw materials into sculptural masterpieces”

TOP: The stones in the Dolce&Gabbana necklace from the Alta Gioielleria high jewellery collection are set using the riveted setting technique, which ensures the gemstones shine brilliantly while preserving a connection to time-honoured craftsmanship.

RIGHT: Chopard’s ring from the Red Carpet Collection 2024 is topped with a 17.71ct brilliant-cut rubellite, set with two pear-shaped emeralds (1.70ct) and supported by two titanium frogs, rubellites, and brilliantcut white and yellow diamonds.

THE STORY IN THE STONE

Caroline Scheufele, artistic director and co-president of Chopard, believes nature’s inﬂuence (as well as art and travel) is deeply intertwined with her design philosophy. The intricate patterns and vibrant energy of the world around her inspire her to ﬁnd the perfect gemstones to tell these stories. “I often begin with the gemstones themselves, but sometimes [inspiration strikes in other ways],” Caroline shares, recounting how a sleepless night sparked the design for the monkey necklace from Chopard’s Animal World High Jewellery Collection.

At the heart of her work is a love for the gemstones – precious, colourful stones that speak their own language. Whether driven by design or stone, the challenge remains in “ﬁnding the perfect gemstones to embody it.”

“High jewellery is about sublimating gemstones,” Caroline explains. “Their unique properties and stories are special to me and frequently inspire my creations. Precious stones really speak to me; I can feel their energy, and I spend a lot of time studying them and thinking of various designs.”

To that end, Chopard’s Red Carpet Collection for 2024, Contes de Fées, envisioned by Caroline and enhanced by the talents of passionate artisans, transports us to a world where the magic of fairy tales comes to life through high jewellery. Drawing on the universal appeal of folklore, she taps into the enchanted forests, mystical creatures, and timeless stories that have captivated imaginations for centuries. This whimsical collection showcases 77 one-of-a-kind pieces, each inspired by nature’s most fantastical elements – from talking animals to enchanted landscapes – continuing Chopard’s tradition of honouring the animal and plant kingdoms in the most innovative way.

AN EMOTIONAL CONNECTION

Van Cleef & Arpels reinvents nature’s forms through the refined asymmetry of its Frivole collection. At the same time, the maison’s iconic Alhambra line nods to the geometric clover motif, rooted in natural symbolism yet adapted to contemporary tastes. Flora has been an emblematic source of inspiration for the maison since its founding in 1906, with collectable pieces featuring blooming flowers and lush gardens. The vast and vibrant gemstone hues reflect nature’s vitality and the rhythm of the seasons; emeralds represent leaves, sapphires the sky, and pink diamonds, among others, the ethereal blossoms. The Van Cleef & Arpels garden is a riot of colour, full of birds, butterflies, ladybugs, cats, and turtles.

Nature is also a recurring motif in Gra ’s collections, emphasising the emotional connection to nature. Anne-Eva Ge roy, who worked for the Van Cleef & Arpels high jewellery department before moving to Gra as Design Director, explained in an interview with Luxury Briefing magazine: “For Gra , I will say that it is always organic, in that we try to translate a moment or emotion each time. It is like when you try to photograph a butterfly landing on a flower, which you know is only going to stay for two seconds. We try to capture this kind of fleeting moment. It is the same for birds or any kind of natural element. We don’t want the flowers in our jewellery to feel like they are generated by a computer; we want it to feel like you picked up the flower in the morning and still have it in your hands. It’s an approach I think our customers appreciate because it’s not repetitive. You can also find this organic approach in our other shapes like the bow – everything should feel like you are wearing a little part of nature.”

This approach to high jewellery design creates a deeper appreciation for the artistry involved, as each piece is crafted to evoke a speciﬁc moment or emotion in nature.

While Cartier is known for its Panthère creations, this year’s Nature Sauvage collection reveals a new perspective on the Cartier Fauna as they are presented in unexpected iterations.

Chaumet’s Bee My Love collection draws inspiration from nature’s tireless worker, the bee, and uses hexagonal designs to mimic honeycomb patterns. Meanwhile, Piaget’s Rose collection is directly inspired by this much-loved bloom and Yves Piaget’s passion for the ﬂower. In contrast, the Metaphoria collection Piaget revealed last year focuses on the living energy of oceans, mountains and forests. “Our goal was to emphasise details that call to mind natural phenomena, such as the ﬂow of a waterfall or the rays of the sun while inspiring a particular emotion,” explains Stéphanie Sivrière, Creative Director at Piaget. “The materials we use, from insect elytra to precious wood, were selected to bring an unpredictable, living element to a piece of 21st-century high jewellery.”

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP:

Gra ’s Wild Flower pendant in yellow gold is part of a collection that captures the untamed elegance of a blossoming garden; The Alhambra motif, a symbol of luck and positivity cherished by Van Cleef & Arpels, takes centre stage in their latest creations; On this statement Piaget ring from the Alata Set in the Metaphoria high jewellery collection, the leaf’s centre is embellished with a pear-shaped 2.23ct diamond; Chopard butterﬂy earrings from the Red Carpet Collection 2024 in ethical 18kt white gold with two rubellite briolettes, brilliantcut multicoloured sapphires, rubellites, and diamonds; the Protection Jacket Ring from De Beers Jewellers’ Forces of Nature collection honours the lion, with spherical gold beads representing the mane; Dolce&Gabbana earrings from the Alta Gioielleria collection.

This connection between jewellery and nature deepens when we consider the materials used. Natural elements like gemstones, diamonds, and precious metals, all formed over millennia within the earth, are transformed by artisans into dazzling representations of nature.

The fiery red of a ruby, the deep green of an emerald, and the brilliant sparkle of a diamond reflect the earth’s most magnificent creations, making jewellery not just an artistic expression but a tangible connection to the natural world.

As artisans continue to draw from nature’s boundless wonders, many are also mindful of protecting that source.

In recent years, the jewellery industry has increasingly recognised the importance of ethical sourcing, reﬂecting a growing awareness of environmental and social responsibility. Chopard has led this movement, using responsibly sourced diamonds and gemstones in many collections. Sustainable practices, such as tracing stones’ origins to ensure they are mined with minimal environmental impact and fair labour conditions, are becoming a standard for luxury brands. This commitment to ethical sourcing goes beyond creating beautiful pieces – it reﬂects a more profound respect for the earth and a dedication to preserving its resources for future generations.

“We are proud at Chopard to have instigated a much-needed awareness

“The fiery red of a ruby, the deep green of an emerald, and the brilliant sparkle of a diamond reflect the earth’s most magnificent creations”

ABOVE:

about sustainability in the luxury watch and jewellery industry. It all started in 2013 with an ambitious project; our Journey to Sustainable Luxury. We began by rethinking our supply of gold, of course a staple of our activity, but, inevitably, deployed our standards to diamonds and coloured gemstones. All our diamonds are sourced from RJC-certified suppliers,” says Caroline. “Moreover, by purchasing a rough gemstone like the Insofu emerald [directly from the mine in Zambia], we can follow its entire journey through to final creation. We ensure a complete chain of traceability, which is rare for stones of such quality. The extraordinary qualities of the stone; its size, deeply saturated colour and provenance, call for a way to showcase it with a design that enhances its magnitude. We are delighted to have revealed the first gemstones cut out from the exceptional and rare Insofu rough emerald as part of the haute joaillerie capsule collection Chopard x Julia Roberts that I co-designed with Julia.”

As artisans continue to draw from nature’s boundless wonders, the marriage of creativity, craftsmanship, and sustainability ensures that high jewellery remains a lasting tribute to our planet. In adorning ourselves with nature-inspired creations, we carry with us the beauty of the earth and a legacy of respect for its future. ■

De Beers Jewellers’ largest-ever high jewellery collection, Forces of Nature, draws inspiration from its deep connection to Southern Africa and the origin of its diamonds. The Dignity tassel necklace, inspired by the gira e, features elegant V-shaped silhouettes adorned with earthy-hued rough diamonds and intricate openwork resembling the gira e’s unique markings.

FROM CULTURAL HOMAGE TO AVANT-GARDE DESIGN, THE WORLD OF FINE JEWELLERY AND HOROLOGY IS BUZZING WITH CREATIVITY. MEET THE INNOVATORS AND EMERGING TALENTS WHO ARE REDEFINING THE GAME WITH THEIR ORIGINALITY, PASSION, AND FLAIR FOR CRAFTSMANSHIP

WORDS DEBBIE HATHWAY

&Trendsetters

I’m sure

South African model and jewellery designer Robyn Cullum oozes creativity from every cell of her being. Now 53, she has modelled since she was 16, setting her on a course for world travel that has “truly deﬁned” her personality. Now splitting her time between France and South Africa, if she’s not delivering her jewellery creations around the world, Robyn is a walking billboard for her designs, be they fashion or jewellery, having also established her own clothing label. She also has a ﬂair for interior design to top it all o .

Robyn describes her So French label as beach chic. “My jewellery business was inspired by everyone always asking me where I got mine from, where to get their own, and how to wear it – I was recreating pieces from the gold jewellery my mum left me. The story is beautiful. I come from a close family who gave me the platform to travel and encouraged me to believe in myself. I know my father is watching over me too.”

Her jewellery is solid 9kt and 18kt gold, and features diamonds, emeralds, sapphires, and rubies “so you can swim in the sea and never take any of it o !”

The bracelet, comprising solid 9kt gold beads on a solid gold rope chain, can be customised with as many beads as you wish, and you can add Robyn’s other charms to it too.

Her range is also steeped in meaning. “Charms include a hand-painted image of Archangel Michael in enamel, surrounded by diamonds, and Lady Fortuna, the Roman Goddess of Fortune and Luck, both bestsellers.” instagram.com/robyncullum jewellery

Trailblazers

CELEBRATING NATURE through craftsmanship

One of the most surprising and delightful discoveries at Haute Jewels Geneva this year was Marco Bicego. The founder and creative director of the Italian brand that bears his name was fortuitously at the booth when I visited and enlightened me about his spectacular ALTA collection, which is “full of light, volume, and juicy colours inspired by the natural world.”

I was already draped in high jewellery pieces, loathe to take them o as he waxed lyrical about reﬂecting nature as a bold, generous presence. “ALTA is a special collection that celebrates the magniﬁcence of natural gemstones and the incredible craftsmanship of our artisans,” explains Marco. “We had to envision creations that embodied the brand’s signature style and highlighted its expertise, such as the burin engraving and our exclusive coil technique, while also enhancing natural gemstones and diamonds. Each stone is selected for its remarkable quality and the emotion it conveys.”

What I wasn’t expecting – and I still haven’t forgotten what it felt like on my skin – was the AFRICA collection. The 18kt yellow gold spheres that characterise this collection are often irregular in size and surface texture, the variation creating visual impact and emphasising the brushed texture resulting from the ﬁne hand engraving using the ancient Florentine “millerighe” burin technique. The coloured designs intersperse gems with gold balls – think amethyst, peridot, yellow quartz, red garnet, tourmaline, London topaz, and freshwater pearls. The lariat necklaces with their eye-catching diamond clasp that facilitates a change in look to suit neckline and mood are a big hit.

like on my skin – was the AFRICA collection. The 18kt yellow gold

Just released for FW24 are extensions to the Masai collection, including coil bangle bracelets in yellow, rose, or white gold, sometimes accented with diamonds. Inspired by the African tribe’s artistry and tradition, these pieces feature a brand-exclusive coil technique that involves wrapping a gold wire around a woven chain and then pressing it to form a semi-rigid gold ribbon.

“The appearance of Masai women, particularly their unique decorative style of wearing stacked jewellery, was a subject of great interest to me as I conceived this collection,” says Marco. “I wanted to experiment with the ﬂat coil, combining it with brilliantcut diamonds for unparalleled radiance. The latest evolution introduces stacking bangles that complement each other perfectly, whether worn together or alone. You can accumulate ﬂat coil rings, bracelets, and necklaces without ever looking overloaded –quite the contrary.” Other new pieces include teardrop and huggie earrings lined with diamonds and coil, collars with diamond accents, double-band rings in yellow and white gold with diamonds, and multistranded statement cu s.

Each creation is crafted entirely in the brand’s atelier in Trissino, Italy. As always, all the diamonds used in Marco Bicego collections are Kimberley Process-certiﬁed, ensuring a “zero conﬂict” provenance and traceability for both gemstones and gold.

Drawing inspiration from nature's organic shapes and textures, his pieces embody ﬂuid, unconventional forms that capture the elegance of everyday luxury through a seamless blend of traditional Italian craftsmanship and modern creativity. marcobicego.com

CULTURALLY sensitive

British designer Ruth Aymer pays homage to her cultural heritage with jewellery designs under the Aymer Maria label, celebrating the Afro-Caribbean tradition of adorning one’s body with precious metals symbolising empowerment and self-expression.

Ruth sees jewellery as objets d’art, hence the intricacy of the handcrafted rings, earrings, and pendant necklaces produced in recycled gold and sterling silver. Each piece reﬂects her commitment to craftsmanship and sustainability, blending contemporary elegance with a timeless appreciation for classical aesthetics. For the Pilastro Collection, she draws inspiration from the grandeur of Greco-Roman architecture.

Meanwhile, Ruth channels travel experiences on a journey through ancient cultures to develop the Malian Collection, a stunning array of jewellery characterised by large-scale Adobe structures pierced by spiky wooden struts and support beams. The Sudano-Sahelian architecture she encountered in West Africa lays the foundation for the Collection, underpinning her commitment to cultural storytelling through jewellery.

Entirely handcrafted in 9kt recycled yellow gold which is selected for its softer colour and accessible price point, each piece is adorned with Botswanamark™ baguette-cut diamonds, skilfully shaped into statement pyramidal forms. It’s another reason to invest in her work. Each Botswanamark™ diamond has a guaranteed chain of custody certifying its journey from the mines in Botswana to the consumer.

The Malian collection embodies Ruth’s dedication to innovation and cultural sensitivity, while striving to make ﬁne jewellery more accessible to a wider audience. aymermaria.com

Reflecting on heritage &craft

METCON’S CONTINUED SUPPORT OF THE PLATAFRICA AWARDS FOSTERS GROWTH IN THE INDUSTRY

The 25th PlatAfrica Awards Ceremony, which took place on 25 October 2024, was a celebration of South Africa’s rich platinum heritage and the artistry of local jewellery designers. This year’s event was especially meaningful, commemorating 100 years since the discovery of the Merensky Reef – a landmark in South Africa’s history of platinum.

Since its inception in 1999, PlatAfrica has been a progressive platform for the local jewellery industry, offering designers the chance to explore the beauty and potential of platinum. For 25 years, MetCon has proudly partnered with Anglo American Platinum and Platinum Guild International India (PGI) to support this competition, bringing together both established and emerging designers who work with platinum.

Each year, PlatAfrica opens the door to creative exploration and this year’s theme, Legacy and Beyond, encouraged designers to capture the timelessness of the metal using pieces that carry stories and emotions. Participants

included jewellers Koketso Mohlala, Esther Boshoff, and Emmah Mahlatsi, together with other designers, apprentices, and students, all of whom embraced the theme with their unique and thoughtful interpretations.

MetCon plays a major role in the setup, technical management, and administration of the mobile auction application, through which jewellery pieces worth R1.5 million were successfully sold.

Following the ceremony, a PlatAfrica pop-up store opens online, offering the public a limited-time opportunity to purchase these award-winning pieces. This pop-up store provides a way for people to connect with South Africa’s platinum story, supporting local artists and owning jewellery a meaningful legacy. Visit plat.africa to purchase your own piece of history.

FLAWLESS workmanship

Maria Carola Picchiotti represents the second generation as marketing director for the family business founded by her father, Giuseppe, in 1967. She has worked with her father for about 30 years, growing the business with her mother, brothers, and cousin, where everything is designed by Giuseppe and his team and made inhouse in Valenza, Italy. Giuseppe broke the family tradition of becoming a physician when he decided to train as a goldsmith from the age of 13, and never looked back. “Picchiotti is known for major masterpieces, one of a kind, featuring gemstones and diamonds and Florentine workmanship. In 2016, we began to introduce new lines,” says Maria.

It’s impossible to single out one piece or collection more notable than the other, such is the star quality of every product. Take the XPANDABLE™ collection, for example, now in its fourth development phase since the 2016 reveal. “When we launched, we had 15 to 20 skills, now we have almost 400. What’s great about the XPANDABLE™ collection is it has a hidden mechanism, which allows the bracelets to expand and contract. You don’t have clasps to work with, so you just slip them on. They are very comfortable, very soft, very smooth. The spring is very durable.”

Picchiotti has developed this line into many di erent variations, incorporating classic, round diamonds, emerald cut diamonds, and Fancy yellow diamonds. “We’re well known for colours. [This is also showcased] in the Fashion Gems line, where the designers play with diamonds and turquoise or coral combinations that sell very nicely at di erent price points, depending on the designs and the stones,” says Maria.

Although Picchiotti has no need or desire to follow trends, its XPANDABLE™ Gold Accent collection ties in perfectly with the yellow gold resurgence. “It’s the big thing now and coming back prominently. Our Gold Accent collection is all about yellow gold and diamonds. We are well known for our use of baguette and emerald cut diamonds, and we created this line with those. We still make one-of-a-kind pieces, but we transported the original DNA of the company into this new collection – quality, ﬂawless workmanship, great stones,” says Maria.

In 2023, Picchiotti introduced the Reversible XPANDABLE™ collection. The company uses coloured stones and 12 di erent ceramic colours to create reversible designs that o er more ﬂexibility for customers who want to switch e ortlessly between looks, depending on their engagements, occasion and mood. picchiotti.it

collection. The company uses coloured stones and depending on their engagements,

“It is impossible to single out one piece or collection more notable than the other”

MIRACLE hands

Until Watches and Wonders Geneva 2024, Beauregard’s positioning was the only independent watch brand dedicated exclusively to women. Alexandre Beauregard launched his ﬁrst men’s watch, Ulysse, with Vianney Halter at this year’s event, but that’s another story.

Since his first collection debuted in 2018, Alexandre has stunned admirers with his realisation of a “true high-end horological and jewellery universe, grounded in the mastery of lapidary art”. The Canadian designer, joined once again at the Watches and Wonders booth by his two children who work with him in the business, presents a “floral, enchanted, and poetic composition” derived from an aesthetic language built on art, design, and fashion. After ogling his GPHG-nominated Lily Bouton among the pieces he revealed last year, I was eager to see more. His o ering this time was the Jardin d’hiver, an exceptional box set o ered in six numbered copies (one to be delivered per year) containing six Lili Bouton in 18kt rose gold, set with flawless white diamonds and presenting dials of hand-cut precious stones in six coloured gems. All or nothing.

Bouton

more. His o ering this time was the Jardin d’hiver, exceptional six in in

Dreamt up in Montreal and made in Switzerland, Beauregard’s Winter Garden is designed with passion, handcrafted with patience, and presented with love. The two Lili Bouton with dials in Red Opal and Fanta Opal from Chiapas in Mexico appear for the ﬁrst time and exclusively within the Jardin d’hiver collection. The other “gardens of gems” feature Lili Bouton in yellow opal from Brazil, Australian chrysoprase, topaz from Arizona, and Peruvian amethyst. “Each piece is unique, like the person who chooses it. But in reality, you don’t choose a Beauregard. It chooses you, and with it, the passion of its creator.” beauregard.ch ■

Win

ONE YOURLUXURY AFRICA READER COULD SOON BE WEARING THIS MURDOCKS TWO-TONE TRANSFORMATION RING, VALUED AT R58 700

Acquiring a precious piece from Murdocks comes with a gifted heritage and service that expands over a century. Established in 1897 and now situated in the heart of the V&A Waterfront, Murdocks is a purveyor of world-class gems ﬁne timepieces, and the most prestigious brands. For double the beauty, this innovative Two-Tone Transformation Ring set in 18kt white gold can be worn in two ways: either showing the round brilliant-cut natural white diamonds (1.03ct total weight) or the round-cut natural black diamonds (0.30ct total weight).

Visit murdocks.co.za for more information.

HOW TO ENTER

Follow @yourluxury_africa on Instagram. Click the link in the bio and ﬁll in your details to secure your entry.

CLOSING DATE 31 January 2025

For a list of jewellers in your area, visit jewellery.org.za or email admin@jewellery.org.za

TERMS & CONDITIONS: The competition opens at 8am on Wednesday 4 December 2024 and closes at 8am on Friday 31 January 2025. The prize must be taken up (or rejected) as awarded and cannot be transferred to any other person, sold, or converted to cash. The competition is open to all residents of South Africa over 18 years of age, except employees of YourLuxury Africa, The Jewellery Council of South Africa or Murdocks. By entering, you are joining the YLA Lounge and will be receiving access to special o ers, exclusive content and marketing material. POPI DISCLAIMER: We respect your right to privacy and therefore aim to ensure that we comply with the legal requirement of the POPI Act, which regulates the manner in which we collect, process, store, share and destroy any personal information you have provided to us.

of Symphony Luxury & Innovation

THE NUMBER SEVEN IS OFTEN REGARDED AS A SYMBOL OF EXCELLENCE AND PERFECTION – QUALITIES THAT MIRROR THE LUXURIOUS BMW 7 SERIES

WORDS EDWARD MOLEKE MAKWANA

In South Africa and around the world, the BMW 7 Series has risen far above the status of a mere car. It has become an enduring symbol of power, precision, and prestige, appealing to those who demand performance and sophistication from their vehicle.

Since its debut 47 years ago, the BMW 7 Series has continually set new standards in automotive luxury. Each generation of this flagship model represents a unique blend of cutting-edge technology and craftsmanship. Much like the perfection the number seven implies, the 7 Series reflects an ongoing evolution, offering supreme comfort, performance, and sustainability in a way that remains unmatched in its class.

“The 7 Series is not just about indulgence; it reflects a responsible approach to modern mobility”

THE CHOICE OF POWER, THE COMMITMENT TO EFFICIENCY

In 2022, BMW unveiled the seventhgeneration 7 Series, a model that demonstrates a strong commitment to sustainability. The latest lineup includes a diverse range of options – combustion engines, plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEV), and for the first time, a batteryelectric vehicle (BEV) variant.

For those drawn to the future of driving, the fully electric BMW i7 xDrive60 embodies innovation. Powered by BMW’s fifth-generation eDrive technology, it features an all-wheel-drive system that generates 400kW and 745Nm of torque. This electric marvel reaches 100km/h in just 4.7 seconds, offering a range of up to 625km and blurring the line between performance and sustainability. For those not yet ready to embrace electric mobility, the BMW 740i provides a sixcylinder in-line petrol engine, delivering a robust 280kW and 540Nm of torque. Meanwhile, the diesel-powered 740d xDrive offers impressive efficiency with 210kW and 670Nm.

Regardless of the powertrain, the 7 Series delivers a seamless driving experience – especially in the M760e xDrive, which prioritises efficiency without sacrificing the luxury that defines the brand. Even parking is effortless with BMW’s Manoeuvre Assistant, allowing the vehicle to handle tight spaces with ease.

LUXURY FOR THE DIGITAL AGE

Today, luxury is no longer confined to leather interiors and powerful engines; it now includes technological innovations that enrich the driving experience. The 7 Series embraces luxury and digital sophistication with features such as the BMW iDrive and the latest generation of the BMW Operating System 8.5, which powers the car’s infotainment, driver assistance, and connectivity features. The fully digital BMW Curved Display, the revolutionary BMW Interaction Bar (a touch-sensitive, backlit control panel that spans the dashboard, allowing drivers to easily adjust settings like climate and lighting), and the enhanced capabilities of the Intelligent Personal Assistant all contribute to a user experience that’s not only intuitive, but engaging.

My Modes, which allows drivers to adjust the car’s settings to suit the mood or journey, takes the multi-sensory experience to another level. The BMW Theatre Screen offers an extravagant 31.3-inch panoramic display with 8K resolution, transforming the rear seat into a private cinema. Meanwhile, 5G compatibility ensures that passengers are always connected.

A NEW STANDARD IN COMFORT

With advanced technology and each detail meticulously designed, the ambience of the 7 Series elevates comfort to an art form. Its exterior design, though unmistakably BMW, is distinguished from other models in the lineup by its bold, confident styling.

Inside, the Executive Lounge package offers rear passengers a lounge-like experience. With reclining seats wrapped in exclusive BMW Individual Merino leather and cashmere wool, the cabin becomes a sanctuary. Every detail – from the ambient lighting to the premium materials –contributes to a feeling of pure comfort.

PRESTIGE BUILT ON RESPONSIBILITY

BMW’s commitment to sustainability is further evident in its production processes. The car is manufactured at the BMW Group Plant Dingolfing, the largest BMW plant in Europe and the company’s hub for producing electric drive components. With these sustainability credentials, the BMW M760e xDrive redefines luxury mobility. Seamlessly switching to electric drive mode, it grants you unrestricted access to inner-city areas, allowing you to move freely where others can’t. With an allelectric range of 90km, you glide through the streets in serene silence, leaving behind no emissions.

INNOVATION THAT DEFINES THE FUTURE

With its sophisticated blend of luxury, performance, and technological innovation, the BMW 7 Series stands as a leader in automotive excellence. Having earned runner-up accolades in two categories of the 2023 World Car Awards –World Luxury Car and World Electric Vehicle – and the 2024 South African Car of the Year title run by the South African Guild of Motoring Journalists, the 7 Series continues to push boundaries and set new standards in the luxury sedan space. ■

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Bisi wears the Bulgari B Zero 1 necklace and bracelet in 18kt yellow gold; dress: Thula Sindi; shoes: Europa Art TOP

Bisi wears the Omega De Ville Ladymatic 34mm watch, steel on steel, mother of pearl and diamond dial with diamond bezel; Messika Baby Move pavé necklace and Move Noa bangle; top and skirt: Thula Sindi; shoes: Europa Art FAR LEFT: Serge wears the Omega Speedmaster Moonwatch Professional 42mm watch, Moonshine™ gold on steel; Messika rubber and stainless-steel racing bracelet and classic lambskin ruthenium toned bracelet; suit: Naked Ape; shoes: Europa Art LEFT: Serge’s shirt and pants: House of Olé

INNOVATIVE CLASSICISM

ICONS TIME of

LUXURY WATCHES TRANSCEND FUNCTION TO BECOME

SYMBOLS OF HISTORY AND HERITAGE THAT TELL MORE THAN JUST THE HOUR –THEY TELL A STORY

This year, Rolex introduced the 1908 Perpetual in platinum, adding a ‘rice-grain’ guilloché pattern to an icy-blue dial for an exclusive signature. Named in reference to the year in which Hans Wilsdorf trademarked the Rolex name, it’s the latest addition to the 1908 collection and a tribute to the classical art of watchmaking. The rosette-like guilloché motif is a threedimensional, repetitive geometric pattern that extends across the surface of the dial. The dial is created via guillochage or engine turning – a technique that uses a turning tool to sculpt a pattern into a surface. This is key to the Perpetual collection and a tribute to the classic art of watchmaking ROLEX PERPETUAL 1908 WITH 39MM CASE IN PLATINUM AND LEATHER STRAP, POA, ROLEX.COM

TWO FACED

More than 90 years ago, Jaeger-LeCoultre created the Reverso as a solution to protect the glass of polo players’ watches during matches. With its swivelling case and distinctive Art Deco lines, it became a classic of 20th-century design. The latest take on the iconic model, the JaegerLeCoultre Reverso Tribute Tourbillon Duoface, brings together the flying tourbillon and the Duoface concept. It pays homage to the original through its Art-Deco inspired stylistic codes – the same that have characterised the legendary Reverso since its creation in 1931 – but the design has been revamped to allow all the components to fit into a platinum case measuring a mere 9.15mm. The result is two hand-fittings in a single movement brought together in pure watchmaking expertise. It is limited to 50 pieces

JAEGER-LECOULTRE REVERSO TRIBUTE TOURBILLON DUOFACE, 45.5MM, PINK GOLD CASE, LEATHER STRAP, POA, JAEGER-LECOULTRE.COM

NEW AWAKENING

The Reine de Naples 8918 is one of Breguet’s iconic pieces, an interpretation of the first watch designed to be worn on the wrist and created by A.L. Breguet. It’s distinguished by its large Breguet numerals adorning the dial, surrounding the hour-circle and complemented by the striking open-tipped hands. At six o’clock, two other details set the tone: a pear-cut stone and a ball attachment that connects the case band to the strap. The bezel, dial flange, and crown are set with diamonds BREGUET REINE DE NAPLES

28.5MM, 18KT WHITE GOLD, LEATHER STRAP (8918BB/28/964 D00D), POA, BREGUET.COM

CONTEMPORARY CHIC

The Patek Phillipe Aquanaut launched in 1997, and in 2004 we ﬁrst saw the Aquanaut Luce – a ladies line that featured quartz or automatic movements and a diamond-set bezel Luce, meaning light in Italian, refers to the reﬂection from the diamonds. Now a new white gold Aquanaut Luce is available, with a dial centre pavéd with baguette-cut diamonds and blue sapphires to form a checkerboard pattern, recalling the Aquanaut collection’s emblematic pattern. The chapter ring alternates between baguette-cut blue sapphire hour-markers and snow-set brilliantcut diamonds, while the rounded octagonal bezel is enhanced by a row of baguette-cut sapphires set in a gradient running from light to dark blue. The watch is equipped with self-winding 26-330 S calibre, visible through a sapphire crystal case-back

PATEK PHILLIPE AQUANAUT LUCE 38.8MM, 18KT GOLD DIAL PLATE AND WHITE GOLD CASE (5268/461G), POA, PATEK.COM

A PASSION FOR THE EXTRAORDINARY

From 1930, Blancpain played a pioneering role in the history of feminine watches by presenting the first self-winding wristwatch for women, the Rolls. In 1956, the brand unveiled the Ladybird model, equipped with the smallest round movement of the time. Far from being merely smaller or adapted versions of men’s watches, Ladybird timepieces are specifically developed for women. Blancpain continues to create movements dedicated to the fairer sex, partly in tribute to Betty Fiechter who was the first female to head a watchmaking company in 1933, and whose visionary spirit paved the way for jewellery watches at Blancpain

BLANCPAIN LADYBIRD COLORS 34.9MM RED GOLD, LEATHER STRAP (3662D 2954 55B), R732 500, BLANCPAIN.COM

MASTER PIECE

The OMEGA Speedmaster was first launched in 1957 as a sports and racing chronograph, complementing the brand’s position as the official timekeeper for the Olympic Games. The name was chosen for its tachymeter scale bezel. The Speedmaster 38mm collection released in 2017, offers customers a luxurious take on the chronograph’s unmistakable look, and this year the collection has been expanded to include eight new models. In addition to a diamond-paved bezel, measured at approximately 1.5 carats, each watch has three diamond-ringed subdials

OMEGA SPEEDMASTER 38MM IN STEEL, LEATHER STRAP AND STAINLESS STEEL FOLDOVER CLASP BUCKLE, POA, OMEGAWATCHES.COM

AN ETERNAL TRIBUTE

The IWC Schaffhausen Portugieser Eternal Calendar is the brand’s first secular perpetual calendar. It automatically takes into account the Gregorian calendar’s leap year exception rules by skipping three leap years over 400 years, and features the Double Moon display which will – theoretically – only deviate from the moon’s actual orbit by one day after 45 million years

It’s been recognised by Guinness World Records as the “most precise lunar phase wristwatch” having beaten the previous world record by more than 43 million years. This is made possible by a new reduction gear train with three intermediate wheels, which reduces the duration of one calendar month as precisely as possible to the duration of one complete lunar cycle

IWC SCHAFFHAUSEN PORTUGIESER ETERNAL CALENDAR 44.4MM, PLATINUM CASE, LEATHER STRAP (REF: IW505701), R3 260 000, IWC.COM

WHEN ART MEETS CRAFT

The collaboration between Swiss tattoo artist Maxime PlesciaBuchi and Hublot is a true example of the how to ensure consistency and maintain the spirit of the brand, while creating an exclusive and distinctive object. Maxime has reimagined the strokes of the Spirit of Big Bang with elongated bevelled features and perfectly proportioned angles that fit together to create a timepiece with the instantly recognisable signature Sang Bleu. Like his tattoos, the line adapts to the curves and textures of the case to retain its spirit – the same philosophy that inspired the Spirit of Big Bang.

HUBLOT SPIRIT OF BIG BANG SANG BLEU SAPPHIRE CHRONOGRAPH 42MM, POLISHED SAPPHIRE CRYSTAL CASE, TRANSPARENT SMOOTH RUBBER STRAP, POA, HUBLOT.COM

ARCHITECTURAL AESTHETIC

The first Zenith Defy was launched in 1969 and nicknamed the “coffre-fort,” a French term for a safe or vault, in reference to its angular, octagonal case. The Defy Skyline, released in 2022, reimagined the Zenith El Primero (the first automatic chronograph calibre in the world) in a non-chronograph style, paying homage to the company’s history. And now we have the Zenith Defy Skyline Skeleton, drawing inspiration from the constant interplay between light and the structures of modern cityscapes integrating an open dial with an openworked version of the El Primero automatic movement. (Openworked or skeleton refers to a watch face where the lack of dial or areas of the dial have been removed to expose the inner workings of the watch.)

ZENITH DEFY SKYLINE SKELETON 41MM WITH STEEL CASE AND INTERCHANGEABLE STEEL BRACELET (REF: 03.9300.3620/79.I001), R220 000, PICOTANDMOSS.CO.ZA

CELEBRATING A PIONEER

To celebrate the 80th birthday of Reinhold Messner mountaineer extraordinaire Montblanc has released the limited-edition 1858 Geosphere Chronograph 0 Oxygen. The timepiece has been encased in such a way that there is no oxygen inside, which has numerous benefits for mountaineers who need their equipment to work perfectly in the harshest climates – and the perfect model to pay tribute to Reinhold. Powered by Montblanc’s Manufacture chronograph with world-time complication, the automatic movement includes a date at three o’clock and two 3D turning globes with the Northern Hemisphere at 12 o’clock and the Southern Hemisphere at six o’clock. The red sfumato glacier pattern dial and touch of red stitching on the strap is a nod to the inspiration from the rare red glaciers in Antarctica

MONTBLANC 1858 GEOSPHERE CHRONOGRAPH 0 OXYGEN LIMITED EDITION 44MM TITANIUM CASE, TEXTILE STRAP, R207 300, MONTBLANC.COM

MILITARY PRECISION

In its relentless pursuit of innovation, Panerai identified Elux, a technology historically patented on 15 June 1966, marking a significant leap forward in the field of luminescence. An abbreviation of ‘elettroluminescenza’ to mean electroluminescence, Elux were originally electroluminescent panels composed of uniformly luminous surfaces constantly maintained by an electric field. The new Submersible Elux Lab-ID, limited to 150 pieces (50 a year for three years), has an innovative Power-Light function for on-demand lighting as well as additional lighting of the indexes, hands, and bezel. The power-light reserve indicator on the dial lasts for 30 minutes when clicking on the patented pusher-protector system. The Ti-Ceramitech case is lighter than steel and 10 times the fracture toughness of ceramic

PANERAI SUBMERSIBLE ELUX LAB-ID (PAM01800), 49MM TI-CERAMITECH CASE AND BEZEL, BLACK MATT DIAL, BLUE RUBBER STRAP, R2 148 700, PANERAI.COM

A CENTURY OF PRECISION

Founded in 1884, Breitling has marked its anniversary with “140 Years of Firsts” – one of which is the Caliber B19, Breitling’s first perpetual calendar chronograph movement. To celebrate this first, the brand released limited 140th-anniversary editions of its three flagship models – the Premier, Navitimer, and Chronomat, each equipped with the Caliber B19, which features a full calendar and moonphase, automatically correcting for leap years and months of 28, 30, and 31 days. This means it can run for nearly a century without a major adjustment. It also has a power reserve of approximately 96 hours. Breitling is one of only a handful of independent watch companies producing its own manufacture movements

BREITLING 140TH ANNIVERSARY LIMITED EDITION PIECES: PREMIER B19 DATORA 42 140TH ANNIVERSARY; NAVITIMER B19 CHRONOGRAPH 43 PERPETUAL CALENDAR; SUPER CHRONOMAT B19 44 PERPETUAL CALENDAR, R1 299 000 EACH, BREITLING.COM

A LEGACY FORGED IN SPEED

Instantly recognisable by its iconic square-shaped design, the TAG Heuer Monaco Chronograph pays tribute to its racing DNA. Introduced in 1969, TAG Heuer Monaco quickly became one of the most symbolic watches in history, instantly recognisable by its iconic square-shape, left crown, and brushed and polished case, which were unlike anything else on the market at the time. It soon developed a following with racing enthusiasts and watch lovers alike. The new TAG Heuer Monaco Chronograph has a skeletonised dial –o ering a glimpse of the watch’s mechanics and highlighting the automatic Heuer 02 movement TAG HEUER MONACO CHRONOGRAPH AUTOMATIC, 39 MM, TITANIUM (REF: CBL2188.FT6261), R233 250, PICOTANDMOSS.CO.ZA

RETRO STYLE

When the Longines Flagship line launched in 1957, it showcased traditional design and technical mastery. Almost 70 years later we celebrate the Longines Flagship Heritage series, fusing modern watchmaking technologies with the vintage look of historical models Date and moon phase indications and three new dial colours have been added to the Flagship Heritage. In keeping with the original Flagship collection, the screw-down caseback features a gold medallion adorned with blue enamel and an embossed image of a full-sail caravel and the EFCo (Ernest Francillon & Compagnie) Longines logo.

FUNCTION MEETS BEAUTY

This year is the 20th anniversary of the first Grand Seiko watch powered by the 9R Spring Drive movement series, which powers all Grand Seiko Spring Drive watches. In celebration of this milestone, a new Spring Drive Chronograph GMT was released. Inspired by the light created by the summer sun rising over the Hotaka mountain range in the Shinshu region of central Japan, the dial colour transitions thanks to a patented dial-coating process called Optical Multilayer Coating. The watch features an angular case design and claw-like, hairline-finished lugs inspired by the lion, a symbol of the brand since its first watch in 1960.

GRAND SEIKO SPORT COLLECTION CALIBER 9R 20TH ANNIVERSARY LIMITED EDITION (SBGC275), POA, GRANDSEIKOBOUTIQUE.CO.ZA

FOPE Solo Flexi Necklace in 18kt yellow gold, R 197 500; Eka Flexi Necklace in 18kt yellow gold, R287 800; Solo Flexi Necklace in 18kt yellow gold, R197 500; Luna Flexit Bracelet in 18kt yellow gold, R167 000, charlesgreig.co.za

Top by David Tlale, davidtlale.com

dimensions DAZZILNG

STRONG SILHOUETTES AND GRAPHIC LINES GIVE A FRESH FEEL TO THE TIMELESS GLAMOUR OF THESE BEAUTIFUL JEWELS

PHOTOGRAPHER JUDD VAN RENSBURG ASSISTANT KAY KAY RIBANE STYLIST PAPAMA RAMOGASE ASSISTANT VUSI NGCOBO MODELS NICOLE ALVES AND ANDY MANXIWA, BOTH BOSS MODELS HAIR SAADIQUE RYKLIEF MAKE-UP ALEX BOTHA, LAMPPOST

Cartier Panthère de Cartier

Necklace in yellow gold with tsavorite garnets and onyx; Panthère de Cartier ring in white gold with emeralds, mother of pearl and diamonds; Panthère de Cartier watch, small model, quartz movement, yellow gold and diamonds; Panthère de Cartier watch, small model, quartz movement, pink gold; all POA, Available at Cartier Boutique in Sandton City, 011 666 2800; cartier.com.

Top by Viviers Studio, viviersstudio.com

Pomellato Iconica Fancy Ring in 18kt rose gold and diamonds, R84 000; Together Ring in rose gold and diamonds, R67 000; Iconica Slim Ring in rose gold and diamonds, R61 000, picotandmoss.co.za

Bvlgari Serpenti Forever Day-To-Night Shoulder Bag in black, R129 000, bulgari.com Top by Gert Johan Coetzee, gertjohancoetzee.com

Pomellato Catene rose gold necklace, POA; Catene rose gold and diamond ring, R142 995; Catene rose gold ring, R144 995; Iconica rose gold ring and diamond, R84 000; Together ring in rose gold and diamonds, R78 000; Iconica rose gold earrings, R142 000, picotandmoss.co.za

Dress by Viviers Studio

Chopard Happy Diamonds watch, 26mm, in quartz, ethical rose gold and diamonds, R214 130; Happy Hearts earrings in ethical rose gold, diamonds and onyx, R49 925; Happy Hearts pendant in ethical rose gold, diamond and onyx, R66 010; Happy Hearts sautoir necklace in ethical rose gold and diamonds, R169 970, bhhboutique.co.za

Top by David Tlale

Bvlgari Serpenti two-coil 18kt rose gold necklace set with pavé diamonds on the head and tail and black onyx eyes, POA; Serpenti Viper one-coil 18kt rose gold bracelet set with pavé diamonds on the head and tail, R265 000; Serpenti Viper one-coil 18kt rose gold bracelet set with full pavé diamonds, POA; Serpenti Viper 18kt rose gold hoop earrings set with full pavé diamonds, R258 000, picotandmoss.co.za

Dress by Gert Johan Coetzee

Shemer 18kt white gold oval 28ct topaz pendant surrounded with 36 diamonds (0.84ct), R179 120; 18kt white gold and 1.4ct diamond tennis necklace, R92 100; 18kt white gold 17.2ct oval topaz Fancy earrings surrounded by 84 diamonds (0.56ct), R378 420; 18kt white gold rainbow tennis bracelet with 32 diamonds (1.62ct) and 30 multi-colour sapphires, R462 000, shemer.co.za

Morgalione 1922 18kt yellow gold amethyst square ring surrounded by 44 diamonds (0.5ct), R93 000; 18kt white gold, diamond (1.3ct), blue topaz, tanzanite and aquamarine ring, R78 600; white gold rock crystal sapphire surrounded by diamonds and sapphires, R120 165, shemer.co.za

Dress by The Bam Collective, thebamcolllective.com

Murdocks 18kt white gold earrings with baguette diamonds (1.09ct) and brilliant cut diamonds (1.02ct), R243 950; 18kt white gold chain and pendant (with 0.88ct diamonds), R143 650; white gold bangle (with 1.00ct diamonds), R74 400; 18kt white gold dress ring (with 1.19ct diamonds), R131 200, murdocks.co.za

Dress by Loin Cloth & Ashes, anissampungwe.com

Graff Tilda’s Bow white gold and white round pavé diamond necklace (13.82ct); Tilda’s Bow white gold and white baguette and round diamond earrings (3.64ct); Triple Pavé Butterfly, white gold, white round and marquise diamond ring (4.56ct), all POA, graff.com

Top by Thula Sindi, thulasindi.com

A love letter to

AFRICA

XIGERA SAFARI LODGE PERFECTLY EXEMPLIFIES AFRICAN CREATIVITY IN THE HEART OF THE OKAVANGO WORDS RICHARD HOLMES

“In the world of luxury safaris, it’s not always easy to stand out”

Striking architecture and remarkable locations are often just the starting points when enticing discerning travellers who seek immersive, authentic journeys. Some lodges lean into ‘starchitect’ designs or a culinary adventure, but at Xigera Safari Lodge – cast away in the heart of Botswana’s Okavango Delta – the focus has always been on celebrating African creativity.

‘A love letter to Africa’ is how the Tollman family described Xigera when it opened in December 2020. As the hoteliers behind the acclaimed Red Carnation collection of boutique hotels, the family had long been adept at capturing a sense of place. And from the start, Xigera – pronounced kee-jera – was conceived as a living gallery of African art and creativity.

At almost every turn you’ll find a roll call of Africa’s leading lights from the world of art and design. Ceramics from Imiso’s Andile Dyalvane. Furniture by Gregor Jenkin. Laurie Wiid van Heerden’s creative ways with cork. In the hallways, Kenyan artist Stanislaw Trzebinski interprets an aerial perspective of the Delta in remarkable panels, while tables stand on stalactite-like spears. In his hand-coiled, burnished and smoke-red pieces, sculptor Madoda Fani channels a contemporary interpretation of traditional African ceramics.

As much as the art is the spotlight, guests are encouraged to take a moment to savour the surrounding landscapes. As you wander from the lodge to your suite along elevated wooden walkways, it’s hard to not take a moment to stop and listen to the silence.

Wooden benches handcrafted from fallen trees by arborist and sculptor Adam Birch, invite you to pause and absorb the wilderness around you. Out on the deck, gazing across wetlands where red lechwe graze warily and elephants trod a gentle path through the grasslands, you’ll find human-sized nests hand-woven with kooboo cane by South African artist Porky Hefer.

At the signature fireplace, sheets of handbeaten copper channel the motif of Xigera’s, a water lily. The totemic fire-pit by blacksmithartist Conrad Hicks is a sculptural talking point for evenings spent out beneath the stars in what is a contemporary reimagining of a traditional African boma.

As the embers die down, guests retreat to one of just 12 spacious suites, all strung out along a pair of islands linked by raised wooden walkways to allow the ebbing floodwaters of the Okavango to pass unhindered below.

Each suite has been individually designed and decorated as a creative haven. Here bespoke bedside lamps are by celebrated ceramic artists Ardmore. The rich timber wardrobe with

etched brass doors comes from the hand of craftsman Otto du Plessis. The dining table, as well as the tableware upon it, is imagined by ceramicist Chuma Maweni. Stools are by Atang Tshikare, while bespoke furniture from Dokter and Misses takes inspiration from the Kassena people of Ghana and Burkina Faso. And yet amid this creative wealth, the landscape is still able to take centre stage.

The vistas are filled with tawny grasslands fringed by riverine forests, and verdant papyrus wetlands that fill each winter as the floodwaters trickle south from Angola. Of course, there’s no shortage of creature comforts either, from air-conditioning throughout to a choice of relaxation areas that spill onto your private deck, complete with an outdoor ‘sala’ day bed.

While each suite is a memorably romantic bolthole for couples, Xigera caters to multi-generational travellers with a striking two-bedroom Family Suite spread across two islands, which is bridged by an extraordinary bronze lily centrepiece.

And as much as this is a destination of its own, the suites here are also a means to an end. With its setting in the iconic Moremi Game Reserve, guests have access to some of the Okavango’s finest game viewing. Twice-daily game drives are the starting point, with skilled guides delving deep into the grasslands that surround the lodge. Otherwise you can lace up your boots for a thrilling safari on foot.

But water is the life of the Okavango, and when the seasonal flood waters arrive –roughly May to August each year – the landscape is transformed. Dry trails become channels filled with crystal-clear floodwaters, and flooded paths lie waiting to be explored on traditional mokoro dugout canoes.

At Xigera, of course, design informs that experience too. A glass-bottomed fiberglass mokoro offers a unique perspective on life beneath the surface. In the wider waterways, speedboat safaris allow you to explore deeper channels, home to pods of hippos dotted with shimmering water lilies.

And at day’s end, it’ll be those hippos that provide the soundtrack as you sip on South African wines in the embrace of a safari lodge that surprises and delights at every turn. A place where pan-African imagination and inspiration are woven into every aspect of the experience, creating an utterly unique Delta safari. ■ xigera.com

the Luxe REPORT

INDULGENT

EXPERIENCES AND LUST-HAVES ON OUR WISH LIST THIS YEAR

ITALIAN LUXURY IN JAPAN

The eighth gem in the Bvlgari Hotel & Resorts Collection opened last year in Tokyo, Japan, and occupies five floors of a skyscraper in the city’s midtown. With views from the rooftop on clear days as far as Mount Fuji and overlooking the Imperial Palace, the hotel offers guests a sublime mix of luxury interiors, cuisine, and wellness. Designed by Milan-based architectural studio, ACPV Architects, each of the 98 rooms combines modern Italian aesthetics with cutting-edge tech and serene Japanese tradition. The hotel’s signature restaurant, Il Ristorante Niko Romito, was awarded a Michelin star within six months of opening – yet another accolade for Niko, who is one of the world’s most celebrated chefs. Sushi Hōseki accommodates eight diners overlooking a private Japanese garden and you’ll find pastries and chocolate delights at Bvlgari Dolci – after which you may want to swim a few laps in the 25-metre indoor pool! Each one of Bvlgari’s hotels (the others are in London, Paris, Shanghai, Dubai, Beijing, Milan, and Rome) is associated with rare and precious gems, and Tokyo’s link is the pink diamond in honour of Japan’s cherry blossoms. bulgarihotels.com

MAGNIFICENT MOMBO

Recently named Best Resort in the Rest of Africa Category in the US Condé Nast Traveler Reader awards, Wilderness Mombo in Botswana’s Okavango Delta offers guests a (seriously) once-in-a-lifetime luxury safari experience. With views over the palm-studded floodplains and breathtaking encounters with wildlife, it’s been said that Mombo offers the best game viewing on the planet. Whether you take a helicopter flip over the Delta, lounge by your private plunge pool, watch the stars at night, or simply let African time take over your senses, this is the ultimate escape in Africa. wildernessdestinations.com

FLIGHT PLAN

Hot on our radar is Louis Vuitton’s new café in Terminal 2 at London’s Heathrow Airport. The maison’s ﬁrst culinary venture in the UK –spearhead by acclaimed French chef Cyril Lignac – the walk-in café has a dramatic aerodynamic façade and o ers light bites on the menu such as the famous croque monsieur, lobster rolls, and a crab-avo salad, as well as delicious breakfasts. You may have also heard about Louis Vuitton’s hotel, set to open in 2026 in Paris. Said to be the city’s new landmark of luxury, a 6 000-square-metre store is reported to also be opening in the building next door. louisvuitton.com

DESIGN ICONS

CARTIER PANTHÈRE, Assouline, R4 100

A tribute to the most iconic and majestic motif in Cartier’s menagerie, this beautiful book chronicles the evolution of the panther in the maison’s art, jewellery, history, fashion, and pop culture since it ﬁrst appeared at Cartier in 1914.

ALEXANDRE REZA, Assouline, R30 000

As part of Assouline’s Ultimate Collection, this hand-bound limited edition comes in a suede clamshell case, and is certainly a lifetime purchase. Featuring more than 100 pieces from Reza’s creations, the tome also boasts the history of the famous gem house in archival documents and vintage photographs. Complimentary white gloves and a signature canvas tote bag are included.

CHANEL: FASHION, JEWELLERY & WATCHES, PERFUME & BEAUTY, Assouline, R1 900

This updated hardcover trilogy in a slipcover case celebrates the timeless spirit and heritage of the house of Chanel as well as the maison’s icons, Gabrielle ‘Coco’ Chanel, Karl Lagerfeld, and creative director Virginie Viard, who stepped down from the role this year. All available at darocha.co.za

MASTER MATERIALS

LUST-HAVE

The Slim d’Hermès Pocket Mysterious Rider watch is another ﬁne example of how Hermès explores time in creative ways. This three-piece limited edition pocket watch reinterprets the Mysterious Rider silk scarf motif created by designer Viktor Hachmang, with the rider on a motorbike in front of a shop that resembles the legendary 24 Faubourg Saint-Honoré in Paris. The workmanship is beyond magniﬁcent. POA, hermes.com

When Rado introduced high-tech ceramic in 1986, it set a new standard for incorporating advanced materials into watch design. Today, this is a hallmark of Rado’s identity and has inﬂuenced many other luxury brands to explore the material. So, what is the deal with high-tech ceramic? Not only is it extremely durable and resistant, it’s also silky to the touch and comfortable against the skin – almost like a sensory experience on the wrist. The ceramics (typically composed of zirconium oxide, aluminium oxide, and silicon nitride) are heated at extremely high temperatures to form a non-metallic substance, so it’s also ideal for people with sensitive skin as it’s non-reactive (hypoallergenic). It’s also lightweight and harder than stainless steel, is scratch resistant and can be produced in various colours (as opposed to colour being a surface coating) that don’t fade over time.

ABOVE: Captain Cook High-Tech Ceramic Skeleton, rado.com

GREAT TASTE

Renowned British-born chef Luke Dale Roberts needs no introduction following the success of his awardwinning restaurants La Colombe, The Test Kitchen, and The Potluck Club. Adding to the prestigious accolades, Luke’s latest venture, Salon, was recently named Africa’s Best New Restaurant at the World Culinary Awards 2024. The menu, inspired by Luke’s passion for travel and exploration, and under the guidance of executive chef Carla Schulze, highlights seasonality and global flavour fusions. From Marseilles (bouillabaisse) to Mexico (chipotle tuna sandwich), dining at Salon is an exceptional culinary immersion with interesting interpretations such as the South African spring dish with hibiscus, rose ice cream, rhubarb, and floral confetti. Located at the Old Biscuit Mill in Woodstock, Cape Town. Booking is essential. salonct.co.za

DIOR IN MOTION

Described as “The Moving Majesty of Malaysia”, The Belmond Group’s Eastern and Oriental Express train travels between Singapore, Thailand, and Malaysia. While you dine on delicacies and traverse through cities and jungle discovering ancient wonders, the luxury train also caters for its passengers’ wellness, having welcomed Southeast Asia’s first Dior Spa. An entire car has been redecorated in the famous toile de Jouy motif and offers signature treatments targeting anti-ageing, relaxation, sleep, synergy, and balance. Private charters are available. See belmond.com for the latest routes.

SPA GAZING

A day at Terre Paisible Medical Rejuvenation & Spa in Franschhoek, soaking up one of the best-kept-secret views in the Cape Winelands, is enough to zone out of body and mind. The treatment menu includes advanced and medical aesthetics, such as discreet injectables, performed by an aesthetic or medical professional. The VVIP treatment room is designed for two and has its own heated pool and en suite bathroom – a private, serene space if ever there was one. It mirrors the rest of the spa’s airy, light, and contemporary design, with nothing to distract from the enormity and glory of Mother Nature’s ample outdoors. In short, it is peace for all your senses. terrepaisiblemedicalspa.com

MODEL BEHAVIOUR

After a two-year hiatus from the fashion world, supermodel and entrepreneur Bella Hadid is back, as seen on the runways at Saint Laurent in Paris and Victoria’s Secret in New York. The American beauty has also joined Chopard as the brand’s global ambassador in a campaign by acclaimed international photographer, Alisdair McLellan. The images capture Bella’s natural elegance in a sophisticated yet pareddown look wearing the House’s new ranges such as Happy Stones and Happy Hearts, pictured here. chopard.com

PET GALA

MAGICAL MIST

The world of pet couture is booming as luxury brands such as Dior, Hermès, Gucci, and Ralph Lauren add collections for our four-legged friends to their fashion lines. First made popular by Paris Hilton who was always accompanied by her well-attired pooch Tinkerbell, the designer pet is back as A listers dress their cats in cashmere and their pups in Polo. Collars, coats, pu ers, and tees top the most-wanted list, followed by initialled accessories and pet homeware like Gucci’s herbarium dog bowl or Ralph Lauren’s treat jar. Inspired by Domenico Dolce’s love for his dog, Dolce&Gabbana has introduced an alcohol-free scented mist for dogs. Fefé has ylang ylang, musk, and sandalwood notes. dolcegabbana.com

AMBER NOTES

140 YEARS OF FIRSTS

Your summer skin spritz cannot get more luxurious than with La Prairie Skin Caviar The Mist. This caviar-infused spray is the ideal travel partner as it prevents trans-epidermal water loss and helps seal in hydration. One spritz and your skin feels refreshed and energised, and the recyclable glass is lightweight and ﬁts easily into your bag. R3 500, woolworths.co.za

Founded in 1884 in Saint-Imier, Switzerland, Breitling is celebrated for its many milestones, having made the first Swiss wristwatch worn in space in 1962 and the first timepieces to circumnavigate the globe during a non-stop balloon flight in 1999. The brand also invented the dive chronograph and put the first international distress beacon into a wristwatch. To mark its 140th anniversary, the watchmaker has opened a pop-up museum in Zurich titled Breitling Then & Now. An interactive museum experience that explores Breitling’s history as a celebration of firsts, there are 88 vintage watches on display, a flight simulator and an in-house Chronometrie as well as memorabilia and photographs from the brand’s illustrious past. Today, it is one of the few brands that still produces its own manufacture calibres and has introduced sustainable innovations such as end-to-end traceability and better packaging. The pop-up is open to the public or you can book a slot online. breitling.com

KWV was recently named Producer of the Year at the 2024 International Spirits Challenge (ISC) event in London. KWV also clinched the evening’s coveted prize as the World’s Best Brandy for the KWV VS Potstill. Considered the Olympics of the spirit industry, the ISC is revered for its blindtasting process, which is judged by a panel of over 70 industry experts. While only four percent of the African population currently consume brandy, CEO of KWV, John Loomes believes the industry is poised for expansion, and with recognition like this, is respected on a global platform too. kwv.co.za

THE GOLD STANDARD

MOODY AMBIENCE

The latest home fragrance from Dr. Vranjes, Velvet Sa ron is a warm, welcoming scent for an entertainer’s home. Top notes of cardamom, sa ron and patchouli with touches of violet, vetiver, and tonka bean, give it a lasting trail. It also looks the part in your entrance hall as it comes in a custom-designed glass bottle inspired by the lines of the famous Duomo, Florence’s Cathedral of Santa Maria di Fiori. Di user, from R1 600 (250ml) to R20 450 (5000ml), darocha.co.za

Crafted and blended in Cognac, France, Honor VS Cognac is a blend of Grande Champagne, Fin Bois, and Bon Bois eau de vie, matured for several years in French oak casks for a bold, full-bodied, smooth blend. It recently received gold at the Cognac Masters 2024 in London, a blind-tasting event where seasoned tasters described it as “expressive and well balanced”. Light and fresh, with fruity notes, subtle ﬂoral aromas balanced by a touch of pine honey and orange blossom, it can be appreciated at any occasion. Available at liquor retailers nationwide.

Baume et Mercier

Murdocks V&A Waterfront Cape Town: 021 419 0302; The Diamond Works OR Tambo International Airport Duty Free: 011 390 3177

Blancpain

Tanur Jewellers V&A Waterfront: 021 418 5524, tanur.co.za; Elegance Jewellers: 011 784 0047, ejewels.co.za

BMW

bmw.co.za

Breitling 087 822 2195; breitling.com; info@breitling.co.za

Breguet

Tanur Jewellers V&A Waterfront: 021 418 5524, tanur.co.za

Bvlgari

Bvlgari Boutique Sandton City: 011 883 1325; Picot & Moss: 011 669 0500, picotandmoss.co.za

Cartier

Cartier Boutique Sandton City: 011 666 2800

Chanel

Chanel Fragrance and Beauty Boutique Sandton City, V&A Waterfront, and Menlyn Park; chanel.com/za

Charles Greig

Hyde Park: 011 325 4477; V&A Waterfront: 021 418 4515; charlesgreig.co.za

Chopard

Architects of Time: 011 669 0790; Boutique Haute Horlogerie (BHH); bhhboutique.co.za

Dior

Architects of Time: 011 669 0790; BHH: bhhboutique.co.za

Dolce&Gabbana

Dolce&Gabbana Oceans Mall, V&A Waterfront, Sandton City; 011 326 7808

Fabergé

Murdocks V&A Waterfront: 021 419 0302

Fope

021 418 4515; 011 325 4477; charlesgreig.co.za

Frédérique Constant

Picot & Moss: 011 669 0500, picotandmoss.co.za Graff graff.com; Delaire Graff Estate: delaire.co.za

Grand Seiko grandseikoboutique.co.za

H. Moser & Cie

Architects of Time: 011 669 0790; BHH: bhhboutique.co.za

Hermès

Picot & Moss: 011 669 0500, picotandmoss.co.za; BHH: bhhboutique.co.za

Hublot

Tanur Jewellers V&A Waterfront: 021 418 5524, tanur.co.za; The Diamond Works OR Tambo International Airport Duty Free: 011 390 3177

IWC

Elegance Jewellers Sandton City: 011 784 0012, Melrose Arch: 011 684 1380; Charles Greig V&A Waterfront: 021 418 4515; Ntinga Gold & Diamonds OR Tambo International Airport Duty Free: 011 390 1500

Jaeger-LeCoultre

Charles Greig V&A Waterfront: 021 418 4515; Elegance Jewellers Sandton City: 011 784 0047, Melrose Arch: 011 684 1380; jaeger-lecoultre.com

Jewellery Council of South Africa jewellery.org.za; admin@jewellery.org.za

L’Atelier Paris 031 001 7076; latelierparis.co.za; contact@latelierparis.co.za

Longines longines.com

Louis Vuitton

Sandton City: 011 784 9854; V&A Waterfront: 021 405 9700

Messika

Architects of Time: 011 669 0790; BHH: bhhboutique.co.za

Montblanc

Sandton Boutique: 011 666 2804; montblanc.com

Moraglione Shemer Jewellers: shemer.co.za

Murdocks

V&A Waterfront: 021 419 0302

Omega omegawatches.com

Panerai

Panerai Boutique Sandton City: 011 784 0012

Patek Philippe by GMT 011 784 2595; patekphilippe@gmtafrica.com

Pomellato

Picot & Moss: 011 669 0500; BHH: bhhboutique.co.za

Rado rado.com

Rolex rolex.com

Shemer Jewellers

Bedford Centre, Bedfordview: 011 622 4735; shemer.co.za

TAG Heuer

TAG Heuer Boutiques: Johannesburg: 011 784 7422, Cape Town: 021 421 8539, Durban: 031 566 4452; picotandmoss.co.za

Tudor

tudorwatch.com

Ulysse Nardin

Architects of Time: 011 669 0790; BHH: bhhboutique.co.za

Victorinox

Picot & Moss: 011 669 0500; picotandmoss.co.za

Zenith

Picot & Moss: 011 669 0500; picotandmoss.co.za

IN THE WHIRLWIND OF WATCHES AND WONDERS GENEVA INTERVIEWS, DEBBIE HATHWAY GATHERED A COMBINED PERSPECTIVE UNDERSCORING THE IDEA THAT LUXURY IS NOT SOLELY DEFINED BY MATERIAL WEALTH, BUT RATHER BY THE FREEDOM TO ENJOY MEANINGFUL EXPERIENCES AND RELATIONSHIPS

TIME Musings on

I've made a conscious effort to set boundaries between my work and home life. It's not just about how much time I spend with my family; it’s about being truly present when I’m with them.

EDOUARD MEYLAN, CEO OF H. MOSER & CIE.

TIME IS A PRECIOUS COMMODITY BEST SPENT ON WHAT GENUINELY MATTERS. THE MOST VALUABLE ASPECT OF TIME IS CARVING OUT MOMENTS FOR ONESELF, FREE FROM THE PRESSURES OF SOCIETAL EXPECTATIONS OR DIGITAL DISTRACTIONS. IT’S ABOUT FINDING QUIET MOMENTS TO READ, REFLECT, AND CONNECT WITH LOVED ONES. IN OUR PHILOSOPHY, TRUE LUXURY LIES IN TIME THAT FEELS SUSPENDED – A GIFT TO SAVOUR WITHOUT CONSTRAINTS.

LAURENT DORDET, CEO OF HERMÈS HORLOGER

I

enjoy spending time with family the most. We live in the mountains with a lake view where

I’m happy to see my kids playing and being safe. That’s a luxury for me – safety.

NIELS EGGERDING, CEO OF FREDERIQUE CONSTANT

I’m learning that taking the time to do nothing is just as valuable as being busy. I now realise that I need to learn to stop and enjoy my life with my wife and three kids. These moments are precious, and I’ve come to appreciate the importance of simply enjoying life and creating memories together.

ELIE BERNHEIM, CEO OF RAYMOND WEIL

HAVING DOWNTIME TO SPEND WITH MY FAMILY AND SAVOUR SPECIAL MOMENTS HAS BECOME MY DEFINITION OF LUXURY. IT’S THE ABILITY TO BE PRESENT AND TRULY ENJOY THESE MOMENTS WITHOUT DISTRACTIONS OR EXTERNAL PRESSURES, AND LEARNING TO CHERISH EACH SECOND AND ENJOY THE LITTLE THINGS THAT MAKE LIFE RICH.

WILLIAM TRUBRIDGE, MONTBLANC AMBASSADOR AND WORLD CHAMPION FREEDIVER

Time is universal; everyone speaks the same language of seconds, minutes, and hours. It levels the playing field –rich or poor, we all experience the same passing moments. In my life, I find joy in the simple pleasures, particularly in my garden with my feline companion, Tourbillon. Her playful spirit adds to my daily happiness.

CAROLE KASAPI, MOVEMENTS DIRECTOR AT TAG HEUER