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Jean-Loup Afresne on Devialet’s Art of Engineering Endurance

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Jean-Loup Afresne on Devialet’s Art of Engineering Endurance

October 16, 2025
7:51 am

With the launch of the Devialet Phantom Ultimate, chief product and technical officer Jean-Loup Afresne discusses how engineering rigour and product longevity define the brand’s lasting success in the luxury audio landscape.

By Sanjeeva Suresh

Entering the foyer of Devialet’s largest flagship store in the Asia Pacific region — located at the Grand Hyatt Singapore — I am greeted by Jean-Loup Afresne, Devialet’s chief product and technical officer. We make our way towards the store’s immersive Listening Room, where the interview takes place opposite the Devialet Phantom Ultimate — the successor to the original Phantom first introduced a decade ago. This latest iteration is described as French acoustic engineering at its finest, delivering pure, high-resolution sound through a radically striking singular silhouette.

Before beginning the conversation, I take note of Afresne — dressed in a casual navy shirt beneath a blue blazer and washed denim jeans. Calm and unassuming, he is every bit the image of an engineer whose work quietly speaks volumes. Seated to his right is Martin Ku — Devialet’s regional director — who joins the conversation to give his input on Devialet’s marketing and business-related strategies. Dressed in sharply tailored suit and pocket square he embodies the corporate polish that complements Afresne’s understated technical poise. Together, they reflect the dual essence of Devialet itself — an understanding of design and presentation.

While Devialet’s legacy rests on pioneering design and boundary-pushing acoustics, its reinvention of the Phantom Ultimate proves that masterpieces endure only when innovation is treated as a constant, not a destination. With over 250 patents, Devialet’s vision of sound as a cultural and lifestyle investment has redefined how technology integrates seamlessly into luxury interiors. From its decade-long evolution to its integration with modern smart home technology, Phantom Ultimate is as much about emotional connection to music as it is about technical perfection. In this exclusive interview, LUXUO explores how Jean-Loup Afresne’s quiet mastery of sound engineering anchors Devialet’s continual evolution in the world of luxury audio.

Design trends shift quickly — how do you approach creating products for Devialet that feel timeless rather than temporary?

Jean-Loup Afresne (JLA): Yes, so this is actually one of our targets — to make a product that lasts. From the beginning, in our development process for new products, we focus on finding solutions that will last for a long time. This is not just a wish; it is a strategic mindset. We do not think about products as something to replace every two years — we aim to make fewer products and improve them over time. That is why we started with an amplifier, then Phantom speakers, then Devialet Mania. Endurance and product longevity are really a strategic decision for us.

You mentioned strategy and strategic decisions, can you expand on what kind of strategies you go through?

JLA: The foundation of our product design strategy is to make products fully optimised for what they do. For a single target, there is only one optimised solution. If we take time to find it, then the endurance target is met. For example, with the Phantom speaker, the main target was compactness — something very compact without compromising performance or design. By focusing on this target, we arrive at one solution, ensuring the product lasts, which is exactly what we did with Phantom.

You were the engineer behind the original Phantom. Now with the Phantom Ultimate, can you explain what evolutions customers can expect and how it has changed over the last decade?

JLA: From the outside, the design looks similar, but it has been refined with improved details. Inside, everything has changed — electronic, mechanical and acoustic components. With Phantom Ultimate, we kept the architecture and system design unique to Phantom but upgraded all components to improve performance.

You have been with Devialet since the early days, moving from engineer to chief product and technical officer. How has your personal and professional journey shaped how you lead Devialet today?

JLA: Devialet today is the same as in the beginning: bringing exceptional sound experiences to a wider audience. Exceptional sound can bring emotion and enhance people’s lives. That has always been our target.

When you mention emotion, what kind of emotion do you want the consumer to have?

JLA: We don’t dictate specific emotions. We want users to connect with the music and they will react in their own way. Our products are enablers between the artist and the listener.

Engineering and design often have conflicting demands. As chief product and technical officer, how do you navigate that tension?

JLA: Our target is not to make compromises. Usually, technical constraints and creative design targets conflict and the easy path is compromise. However, we challenge everything: why a design choice exists, is it really necessary or just a habit or industry standard? By doing so, design and technology amplify each other rather than compete, which is why Phantom lasts so long.

Looking back at the original Phantom of 2015, what were the key lessons that inform your engineering process today?

JLA: The key learning was to never forgive shortcuts and to stay aligned with the target. For instance, compactness was critical. Even though an easier solution would have slightly increased the size, we pushed the design to meet our original target, which required managing more complexity but maintained our radical approach.

As Devialet launches globally — including Singapore — how do you adapt the brand’s positioning for local and regional markets?

Martin Ku (MK):Being a French brand is beneficial in Asia. We position ourselves as a luxury, audio and lifestyle brand, which is unique. French heritage brings rigour in design and development. Combining brand image, product experience and retail location creates a strong, unique positioning. Singapore — in particular — is our priority in APAC with two flagship stores. The market’s receptivity and fast decision-making help us expand rapidly.

Singapore is a hub for premium audio and luxury lifestyle brands. What role does this market play in Devialet’s global growth strategy?

MK:Singapore is the standard for Asia. Partners train and see stores here before expanding in their markets. It’s a benchmark location for launching new concepts and limited editions.

Audio products are evolving with connectivity and a seamless user experience. How does the Phantom Ultimate respond to these expectations?

JLA: The electronics have been improved, with a processor more than four times faster than the previous generation. Phantom Ultimate supports Ethernet, Wi-Fi and smart home integration. Future updates will ensure compatibility with evolving smart home protocols.

Technology and luxury increasingly overlap. Do you see Devialet as a tech brand, luxury brand or hybrid?

JLA: Technology is a means, not the target. Our products are positioned at the intersection of luxury, lifestyle and audiophile performance. Technology enables usability, aesthetics and extreme audio experience, without being showcased directly.

How does Devialet reach younger consumers while also appealing to traditional audiophiles?

JLA: We design timeless products rather than targeting a specific demographic. Music is universal, so our audience is wide. Partnerships — like with Fendi or Opera de Paris — allow reaching niche audiences while the base product appeals broadly. Custom finishes help adapt to different tastes without changing the product itself.

Devialet has collaborated with brands like Opera de Paris, Alpine and BYD. How do you approach these partnerships and are there industries you want to explore next?

JLA: Most partnerships come to us because sound has become more important than ever. We can select which partners to work with, often bigger companies than ours. We are now in planes, automotive, TVs, etc. Future opportunities could be in architecture and interior design, integrating audio experiences from the start of a project.

With competitors like Bang & Olufsen and Sonos, what sets Devialet apart?

JLA: Devialet combines Hi-Fi-level audio quality with accessible, stylish, reasonably priced products. Competitors often focus on design or connectivity but don’t match extreme audio quality. Our product works both in lifestyle and high-performance audio spaces.

Sustainability is key in luxury. How does it factor into Phantom Ultimate’s design?

JLA: Material choice matters, but longevity is the main point. A green product is one that lasts. Many customers still use their first Phantom after 10 years, proving our approach.

What does success look like to you personally — recognition, adoption or product impact?

JLA: Success is about the emotion we bring to people’s homes. For example, a customer wrote about how Phantom allowed him to enjoy music again with his family, which was the ultimate success.

There is a revival of 2000s analog-style music. How does Devialet contend with this trend?

JLA: It doesn’t compete; it complements. We recently held an event for vinyl listening. Phantom can faithfully reproduce analog sources — it’s an enabler, making listening pure and genuine.

As someone who created it, how do you personally enjoy the Phantom Ultimate?

JLA: I play music at home all the time — when waking up, cooking or doing other tasks. Phantom’s goal is to provide excellent sound even during daily activities, not just when sitting down to listen carefully.

For more on the latest in tech interviews alongside lifestyle and gadgets, click here.

Ulysse Nardin Diver Air: World’s Lightest Mechanical Dive Watch

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Ulysse Nardin Diver Air: World’s Lightest Mechanical Dive Watch

October 9, 2025
10:46 am

Ulysse Nardin’s Diver Air introducing a 52 g skeletonised titanium dive watch, the world’s lightest mechanical model.

By Ashok Soman & Daniel Goh

In the previous two editions of Watches and Wonders Geneva (WWG), Ulysse Nardin brought just one watch to the party. That watch was the Freak, in various forms, and the idea was to focus the world’s attention on just the one watch. In the case of the Freak, this made a lot of sense, and we told the top brass at Ulysse Nardin so; the Freak needs time to grow on a collector and the model should be far more successful than it is. This year, Ulysse Nardin switches gears with the watch models but it maintains the ‘one watch at a time,’ strategy. The Ulysse Nardin Diver Air, or as the brand has it Diver (Air) is basically the brand’s take on a skeletonised diver’s watch, paired with ultra-light materials, resulting in a record-breaking, world’s lightest mechanical dive watch.

This perhaps is a thrilling space for Ulysse Nardin to play in because usually records broken when it comes to diving watches always relate to depth; nobody is even looking at weight. Additionally, the contrast between the chunkiness of a dive watch versus the Diver Air’s supreme lightness is sure to surprise anyone who picks it up. And perhaps the third reason this is good for Ulysse Nardin is that alongside its Freak series, the diver collection tends to fall to the wayside and this new watch is the talking point the collection needs.

At just 52g in weight, this thing is just ultralight. The brand spared no expense to cut weight for the watch, incorporating titanium not just in the case but in the components of the movement as well. We were even told that the fabric strap paired with the watch was a result of a collaboration between Ulysse Nardin and suppliers who make lightweight wear for top-level athletes.

The most obvious way they have cut all that mass is by skeletonizing the movement to an insane degree. Bridges are cut to the bare minimum and even then hollowed out to reduce weight. The result is the space inside the watch consisting of 80% air and only 20% material. Now the last question to ask is that at 52g, will its weight completely disappear underwater considering the amount of air and its buoyant nature?

This story was first seen as part of the WOW #79 Summer 2025 Issue

For more on the latest in luxury watch reads, click here.

The 10 Greatest Innovations F1 has Given the World

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The 10 Greatest Innovations F1 has Given the World

October 5, 2025
6:02 pm

Even if you take the phenomenal sporting achievements out of the equation – the championships, the records, the victories – Formula 1 has undoubtedly made its impact on the world over the last 75 years.

Its status as the pinnacle of motorsport has opened the door for a myriad of innovative technology that has trickled down into wider society, improving sectors that you’d never think owed a small part of their progress to F1.

From paediatric surgery to London buses and toothpaste, we’ve delved into the best inventions the sport has given the world.

Project Pitlane

When the coronavirus pandemic put the calendar on pause back in 2020, F1 teams were uniquely placed to respond to the crisis. Pushing their intense rivalries aside, they came together and harnessed their incredible technological capabilities and resources in the creation of a life-saving breathing device.

Aptly named Project Pitlane, it involved the teams working alongside the UK government to reverse engineer existing medical devices, increase the production of ventilators efficiently, and design a new device.

The process of getting approval for a medical machine would usually take two years, but thanks to the relentless effort of engineers across the grid, this was completed within just four weeks, allowing an updated ventilator to be rolled out rapidly.

Supermarket Fridges

UK supermarket Sainsbury’s has Williams to thank in their mission to become net zero by 2040 as the team repurposed their aerodynamics expertise to reduce the store’s energy consumption.

Working alongside Aerofoil Energy, Williams created an aluminium device that echoes the design of an F1 car’s rear wing – on track, this diverts air over and around the car to maximise performance, but the rehashed tech has a different impact in the supermarket aisles.

When attached to the shelves of a fridge, it stops the cold air from seeping out and instead keeps it within the cabinet, saving energy and keeping the surrounding areas warm for customers.

Fellow UK supermarkets M&S, Tesco and Asda have all adopted the technology throughout their stores, with Sainsbury’s revealing that it delivers carbon savings of 8,763 tonnes every year.

London Buses

Williams have grown into specialists when it comes to implementing sustainable technology both on the track and in our daily lives, especially if you’re a London commuter.

Back in 2009, the FIA introduced optional kinetic energy recovery systems (KERS) to the regulations and Ferrari, Renault, BMW and McLaren decided to try them out. The system harvests energy that is usually lost as heat when braking, turning it into additional power that is fed back into the car.

Williams developed their own flywheel-based KERS but elected not to use it due to packaging issues, preferring an electrical version. But the design was too good to waste, leading to the team selling the technology to the companies that run the iconic red London buses.

Regenerative braking has since been implemented in public transport across the rest of the UK, helping to reduce carbon emissions, improve fuel efficiency and lower air pollution.

Paediatric Surgery

Watching F1, it’s easy to lose sight of how impressive the work of a pit stop crew actually is – tell someone who’s not a fan that four seconds is considered a slow stop and they probably wouldn’t believe you.

In 2001, two colleagues from Great Ormond Street Hospital noted the similarities between the efficiency of a pit stop and the crucial process of moving an infant after they’ve undergone heart surgery. Looking down on a stop from above, the car is in the middle and worked on by the team surrounding it, much like a baby on a trolley in hospital.

This realisation sparked an unexpected collaboration; McLaren and Ferrari are historically two of the most intense rivals in sports, but on this occasion they joined forces to impart their knowledge and boost cardiac care for babies.

The Maranello team noticed that unlike their crews, doctors and nurses didn’t have specified roles when it came to transporting a child from the operating theatre to intensive care – if something went wrong, everyone would rush to fix it, rather than leaving one person to it.

Once this lesson was applied in the hospital, the number of technical errors fell by 42%, encouraging staff to recommend the procedure to hospitals across the UK.

Toothpaste

What could an F1 team possibly know about making toothpaste? The answer is not much – but they do know an awful lot about planning for every possible scenario. Ahead of a race, they will have a plan for a Safety Car period, another for what to do if the tyres degrade faster than expected, and another for when their rivals are faster than anticipated.

This meticulous preparation was put into place after McLaren signed a partnership deal in 2011 with pharmaceutical company GlaxoSmithKline (GSK), which manufactures toothpaste for various brands.

Geoff McGrath from McLaren Applied Technologies analysed the process of a factory changeover, which is when the employees had to switch from one brand of toothpaste to another by rearranging tools and cleaning tubes. At the time, this took two hours and essentially halted production.

Using a computer simulation, he demonstrated how inefficient their methods were, prompting the factory team to come up with a refreshed seven-step plan that ultimately decreased changeover time by 60%, equating to an extra 20 million tubes of toothpaste produced by the end of the year.

Smooth Sailing

It takes place on a very different surface, but sailing is surprisingly similar to F1 in many ways, giving boat designers a great opportunity to learn from the series. It definitely helps when one of these designers used to work for McLaren as a Race Engineer.

Dan Bernasconi was responsible for the race-winning Team New Zealand yachts in the 2017 and 2021 America’s Cup, an international sailing competition. Incorporating his F1 knowledge of aerodynamics, he designed the carbon fibre yacht using simulation technology to take his team of 100 people to victory.

There is the added challenge of hydrodynamics, but at its core, America’s Cup is the F1 of sailing – a team of engineers must create the best car/boat they can based on smaller models, which is then piloted by a talented driver/helmsman to the finish line.

Aerodynamics and carbon composite technology aren’t the only shared elements. The yachts are covered in sensors that send real-time data back to the team for analysis, much like the ones that F1 teams monitor throughout each on-track session.

F1 expertise helped shape Team New Zealand’s America’s Cup boat

Making 5G Accessible

The importance of reliable connectivity for F1 teams can’t be overstated (imagine the chaos that would unfold if there wasn’t enough signal on a race weekend!). Gathering accurate data and sharing it with various departments is critical to their overall success.

So in another win for McLaren Applied Technologies, they harnessed the trackside technology that keeps their employees connected and built Fleet Connect, which is now being deployed across public transport networks.

From the UK to Singapore, it helps with the transmission of data and gives passengers a high-speed Wi-Fi connection, while also allowing rail teams to share live camera feeds and sensor readings to make quick decisions around engineering and maintenance.

Air Traffic Control

McLaren’s skill when it comes to data is second to none, something that airports around the world have made the most of in recent years.

Over a race weekend, their technology accurately monitors where every car is on the circuit and how fast they are going, which is equally useful knowledge for air traffic controllers keeping note of the location of planes.

Places like Heathrow Airport use tech created by McLaren to receive live information about departures and arrivals, enabling them to anticipate delays and ease congestion in advance.

Heathrow Airport benefits from McLaren’s technology

Carbon Copies

Carbon fibre, an exceptionally strong material, had been trialled in the aerospace industry with mixed results in the 1960s, but its true potential was unlocked by McLaren engineer John Barnard.

He designed the first carbon fibre composite monocoque in 1981, which is now used by every team on the grid and demonstrated how important the material could be both in racing and everyday life.

Many devices are now made of carbon fibre, from a super lightweight wheelchair that is custom fit to the user to the BabyPod designed by Williams, a monocoque-like transport vehicle that is designed to transfer unwell newborn infants in hospitals.

The McLaren MP4/1 was the first F1 car fitted with a carbon fibre monocoque

Hitting The Road

Out of everything on this list, it perhaps makes the most sense that many F1 innovations have found their way into the production of standard road cars.

Let’s start with paddle shifters, which were adopted by Ferrari in 1989 as they were both faster and more gentle on the car’s components than manual gear changes. They keep drivers in control by letting them choose when to switch gear while making the actual change automatic. It took just eight years for Ferrari to add them to their F355 road car, and now even family cars use them.

Another innovation is the highly complex F1 steering wheel, which has a button for everything the driver could need in a race. Brake bias, the differential (the amount of torque transferred between the rear wheels), and power unit settings are all controlled with dozens of buttons.

Over the years, more and more road cars have adopted similar technology, albeit with not quite as many options – you’re more likely to see a switch for radio stations than DRS in a family car!

From hybrid technology to the extensive learnings around aerodynamics that progress every year, plenty of tech developed in the competitive environment of F1 is implemented in supercars and gradually appears in more common road cars too.

With 75 years of innovation by the greatest engineering minds behind us, who knows what groundbreaking designs could arise next?

This article was first seen on FORMULA 1

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Meet RIMOWA Groove, the First Leather Collection

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Meet RIMOWA Groove, the First Leather Collection

September 25, 2025
1:58 pm

RIMOWA expands into its first leather bags series with the RIMOWA Groove collection that’s designed to complement its suitcases.

BY Asri Jasman

Ever since it released the Personal crossbody—first seen in a collaboration with Dior Men for the Summer 2020 season—RIMOWA has been steadily expanding into the lifestyle bags and accessories sphere. The brand launched the canvas-focused Never Still series shortly after, the nylon Signature collection in 2023, reimagined its aluminium suitcase as its first aluminium handbag last year, and most recently released an aluminium backpack. Just in case it isn’t already apparent, RIMOWA isn’t only about luxury travel.

Now, the brand is doubling down on the category with its first-ever series of leather bags. The RIMOWA Groove collection is named after the iconic design that decorates almost the entirety of its offerings, but unlike the standard unidirectional motif, the grooves on the Groove collection are a combination of both the horizontal and vertical. They’re also bolder and proportionally more oversized for a playful update the likes of which we haven’t seen from the brand before.

The bags in the Groove collection are made in Italy using supple and resilient premium leather to craft three distinct, structured silhouettes. The largest is in the collection is the Groove Shopping Bag that has a handle drop perfectly designed to be carried as a top-handle or on the shoulder, while the Groove Sliding Hobo Bag is more relaxed in structure and fitted with an adjustable strap. Both bags come with a removable pouch and have been cleverly designed to integrate with any RIMOWA suitcase—the notches on the Groove Shopping Bag and the back slot on the Groove Sliding Hobo Bag allow the telescopic handle to slide in easily. The final silhouette in the collection, the Groove Cross-Body Bag is shaped almost like a shrunken suitcase with a top handle that’s reminiscent of the RIMOWA Classic line’s. The style is available in small and large formats, with both featuring a wide zipped opening that extends all the way to the sides of the bag.

For a start, all bags in the Groove collection are permanently available in black. The Groove Cross-Body Bags, however, are available in a range of colours. The large and small formats are also available in a seasonal silver colour, while only the latter can be found in additional seasonal colours of pink, burgundy, and green.

But how much are they priced at, you ask? The Groove Shopping Bag comes in at SGD2,870, the Groove Sliding Hobo Bag is priced at SGD2,700, the large Groove Cross-Body Bag goes for SGD2,360, and the small Groove Cross-Body Bag will set you back SGD1,600. The best thing is, like every RIMOWA piece that’s not a wheeled suitcase, every design in the Groove collection also comes with a two-year guarantee.

The RIMOWA Groove collection is now available in RIMOWA boutiques and online.

The Future of Luxury Travel: Trends, Transformations and What’s Next

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The Future of Luxury Travel: Trends, Transformations and What’s Next

September 18, 2025
1:58 pm

Luxury travel in 2025 redefines itself with personalized, ethical, and transformative experiences beyond five-star standards.

By Lucas Raven

As we look to the horizon of luxury travel in 2025, it’s clear that the world of high-end tourism is undergoing a profound shift. It’s no longer just about private jets, luxury villas, or five-star service. Today’s elite travelers are increasingly looking for experiences that are deeply personal, ethically sound, and transformative—both for themselves and the world around them. Here’s a closer look at the most significant trends that are shaping the future of luxury travel.

1. Political and Ethical Travel: Values Over Destinations

In the past, travel decisions for the ultra-wealthy were driven largely by destination appeal, luxury amenities, and exclusivity. But in 2025, more and more travelers are factoring geopolitics into their choices. They are consciously avoiding countries that are aligned with regimes known for human rights violations or unethical practices. Political travel is emerging as a crucial consideration in the luxury travel market.

This trend speaks to a broader shift toward conscious travel. Today’s discerning travelers are seeking destinations that are not only sustainable but also spiritually enriching and deeply authentic. Whether it’s trekking through the Himalayas, experiencing the untouched wilderness of Mongolia, or staying in exclusive sanctuaries like Mustique, luxury travel in 2025 is about much more than indulgence. It’s about aligning one’s travel choices with personal values, a desire for adventure, and a need for introspection.

2. Hyper-Personalization: The New Definition of Luxury

Luxury travel is fragmenting in exciting new ways. No longer is it defined by a universal standard of opulence. Instead, luxury is being shaped by the unique values of travelers across different regions of the world.

In the Gulf States, privacy and exclusivity reign supreme. Travelers from the region demand not just personalized service but complete discretion and tailored experiences that feel uniquely their own. In contrast, travelers from Asia prioritize cultural immersion, where traditional rituals and modern wellness blend seamlessly. American travelers, on the other hand, are embracing high-adrenaline, bucket-list experiences like private safaris, extreme adventure activities, and sustainable travel.

This shift toward hyper-personalization means that luxury is no longer about just meeting expectations—it’s about exceeding them in a way that resonates emotionally and culturally. True luxury is defined not by income level but by the emotional resonance of an experience, a key factor that is pushing the industry toward more bespoke, thoughtfully crafted journeys.

ZENITH’s New Chronograph is Inspired by ’60s Mid-Century Interior Design

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ZENITH’s New Chronograph is Inspired by ’60s Mid-Century Interior Design

September 12, 2025
11:00 am

ZENITH collaborates with USM Modular to create the DEFY Chronograph USM

By Elliot Tan

If you’ve never heard of USM Modular Furniture, here’s a quick crash course. Founded in 1885, the Swiss designer and manufacturer became a household name only in 1963, when it introduced the USM Haller System. Built on a steel ball-and-tube skeleton, the modular design allowed for infinite reconfigurations, with vibrant glass panels that captured the spirit of the ‘60s—think the explosion of colours in pop art and psychedelia.

Nearly 60 years later, Zenith has teamed up with USM to release a limited-edition watch inspired by the ‘60s. Its design philosophy was sparked by a single question:

“What might these two icons of Swiss craftsmanship have created together back then?”

The answer is a vibrant, integrated sports bracelet watch that plays with geometry and angles.

The foundation is the skeleton of the 1969 Zenith DEFY, a fitting starting point for this creative fusion. Chrome-plated steel tubes and ball joints of the Haller System are mirrored through a compact 37.3 mm stainless steel case, while its octagonal form and fourteen-sided bezel scream classic ‘60s. Vintage pump-style chronograph pushers flank the right side of the case, reinforcing that rugged, asymmetrical silhouette that has endured across generations/

This interplay between contour and angular shapes is contrasted by square hour markers with horizontal grooves, lending the piece even greater architectural edge. But Zenith fans will know that these design elements aren’t novel.

So What Is?

Where the new DEFY Chronograph USM separates itself is through its movement. This is the first time a chronograph has entered the fray of the original DEFY line. Three silver subdials finished with fine concentric circles overlap each other boldly. This not only adds textural depth within a vibrant, solid-filled dial, but doubles as a subtle nod to USM’s iconic handles. Now pay attention to the second hand, it’s also tipped with a miniature USM Haller ball joint.

Inside beats the automatic El Primero 400 calibre—a choice that feels poetic given its lineage traces back to the El Primero 3019 PHC of 1969, the world’s first automatic high-frequency chronograph. Running at a frequency of 5hz, the movement also allows a water resistance of 100m and 55 hours of power reserve.

The DEFY Chronograph USM will be available in four punchy dial colours: Gentian Blue, Golden Yellow, Green, and Pure Orange. Each is limited to just 60 pieces, making this collaboration as exclusive as it is vibrant.

This article was first seen on ESQUIRE SG.

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Celebrating 270 Years of Tradition With Vacheron Constantin

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Celebrating 270 Years of Tradition With Vacheron Constantin

September 5, 2025
10:52 am

As Vacheron Constantin turns 270, it is worth recalling that its stock in trade are watches in the Traditionelle and Patrimony collections

By Charmian Leong

Big anniversaries demand big releases. After all, what is the point of peerless longevity if not to flaunt all that accumulated mastery? Vacheron Constantin has just turned a spry 270 years–the oldest manufacture to operate continuously since its founding–and it certainly has the horological chops to prove it. Case in point: the bombastically named Les Cabinotiers Solaria Ultra Grand Complication, boasting a jaw-dropping 41 complications (see the general Watches and Wonders Geneva stories this issue for more).

But showmanship alone is not what keeps the house Jean-Marc and Francois built like this ticking through centuries. Subtlety and refinement are equally important hallmarks of excellence, which is why part of the anniversary celebration includes a series of simple but elegant limited editions from the Traditionnelle and Patrimony collections.

All eight commemorative references (four from each line) are distinguished by dials engraved with a contemporary geometric motif inspired by the Maltese cross. The emblem has been associated with Vacheron Constantin since 1880, referencing a historic movement component designed to regulate the power delivered by the barrel. Over the years, the motif has made appearances in pin buckles, bracelet links, winding rotors, tourbillon cages, and even diamond prongs. Now it finds new life as a dial decoration that plays with light and depth.

The beating hearts of the watches have also taken on festive festooning. The movements all have a “cote unique” finish on their bridges — a deceptively simple pattern that requires precise machine-guided preparation and hand-executed finishing. First seen more than a century ago and revived in 2021 for the Historiques American 1921, this long-lost decoration took today’s artisans some 500 hours to (re)learn. The result is a seamless pattern of flowing lines across the bridges, complemented by a Maltese cross engraving to mark the milestone.

The decision to highlight the Traditionelle is informed by the collection’s high technical standards and distinctive aesthetics. The Traditionelle watch’s stepped lugs, fluted case back, slim bezel, railway minute track and faceted dauphine hands all speak to classicism with backbone. This anniversary edition includes two Traditionnelle Manual-Winding models in 38mm platinum or 5N pink gold (limited to 370 pieces each), both paired with grey alligator straps. There is also a 36mm Moon Phase in a gem-set pink gold case, and a demure 33mm Manual-Winding version, also gem-set and in pink gold. Both of the latter are limited to 270 pieces and feature pink alligator straps.

If the Traditionnelle honours Vacheron Constantin’s past, the Patrimony collection looks a little ways forward, with minimalist, ultra-thin models inspired by its round dress watches from the 1970s. The clean bezel, gently domed dial, baton hands and pearl minute track exude contemporary restraint. For the anniversary, the brand has selected the Patrimony Moon Phase Retrograde Date and the Patrimony Self-Winding — both available in white or pink gold. The Moon Phase (limited to 270 pieces) features a retrograde date display, a Vacheron Constantin specialty since the 18th century. The Self-Winding is a 370-piece edition featuring time, date, and hacking seconds. Each is paired with a dark green alligator strap.

Turns out, you do not need to shout to stay in business for 270 years. You just need to be good at making the quiet look effortless.

This story was first seen as part of the WOW #79 Summer 2025 Issue

For more on the latest in luxury watch reads, click here

Parmigiani Fleurier Unveils Chronograph Ultra-Cermet with a New Material

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Parmigiani Fleurier Unveils Chronograph Ultra-Cermet with a New Material

August 28, 2025
8:30 pm

Discover the Parmigiani Fleurier Tonda PF Sport Chronograph Ultra-Cermet with its innovative ceramic-titanium case and refined craftsmanship.

Leave it to Parmigiani Fleurier to make material innovation an exercise in restraint. While the practice of borrowing high-tech materials from aerospace or automotive industries is not new to watchmaking, it is often accompanied by aggressive posturing – all wild colours and boasts of virtual indestructibility. Not so at Parmigiani Fleurier. When the brand announced it had become the first to use cermet (a composite of ceramic and metal, covered below and in our materials special elsewhere) extensively in a watch case, it did so with quiet refinement. Meet the Tonda PF Sport Chronograph Ultra-Cermet.

Cermet is a composite popular in aerospace, automotive, biomedical, and other high-performance fields, prized for combining the best qualities of ceramics and metals. It offers the scratch-resistance of ceramic while maintaining the toughness and ductility of metal, making it less brittle, more durable, and pleasingly lightweight and cool to the touch. There are all manner of such ceramic and metal blends, some of which are composites and others not quite. In the case of the Fleurier brand, it is a blend of ceramic and titanium, resulting in a cool anthracite shade with a subtle metallic sheen, enhanced through alternating brushed and polished finishes.

The Tonda PF Sport Chronograph Ultra-Cermet’s 42.5mm by 13.3mm case, fluted bezel, crown, pushers, and pin buckle are all made from this composite. It took the brand three years to develop the material, and the case alone requires a full day to assemble it 72 distinct components.

The dial continues the theme of understated sophistication. A satin-finished black or (a 9k gold-nickel alloy) gives the surface a grey-black hue that harmonises with the case. Delta-shaped, open-worked hands track the hours and minutes, while a central second hand marks the chronograph function. The gold indices are hand-applied, plated with black or, and filled with lume for nighttime legibility. Two dial variations are available – one with subdials in “London Grey”, the other in “Milano Blue”– each paired with a matching rubber strap.

Turn the watch over and you will find the in-house PF070 calibre, first introduced in 2021 for the brand’s 25th anniversary and the launch of the Tonda PF Chronograph collection. A high-frequency movement beating at 5 Hz (36,000 vph), it measures elapsed time to 1/10th of a second and is COSC-certified. It features a column wheel and vertical clutch, while its bridges are open-worked, satin-finished, and hand-bevelled. The 22-carat rose gold oscillating weight is skeletonised, sandblasted, and polished. Fully wound, the calibre offers 65 hours of power reserve.

In an industry where cutting-edge is rarely quiet, the Tonda PF Sport Chronograph Ultra-Cermet is refreshingly modest, without losing presence. As CEO Guido Terreni puts it: “Our timepieces are created for those who value silence over noise, craftsmanship over spectacle, and meaning over affectation.”

This story was first seen as part of the WOW #79 Summer 2025 Issue

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Aston Martin Celebrates Its 75th Anniversary With Limited-Edition Models

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Aston Martin Celebrates Its 75th Anniversary With Limited-Edition Models

August 21, 2025
12:33 pm

Aston Martin’s Thrillseeker Collection made its debut in the Americas where adoring fans of ultra-luxury motoring lapped up the visual feast.

Aston Martin commemorated its 75th anniversary in the Americas earlier this week at Monterey Car Week 2025, a diamond jubilee that signifies the British brand’s ongoing passion for the New World. The luxury motoring company observed a masterclass in how to pay homage to its legacy while moving forward towards its next chapter, from the premiere of the exclusive Thrillseeker Collection to the reveal of the production-ready Valhalla.

Aston Martin’s custom Q division debuted the breathtaking Thrillseeker Collection — a trio of renowned models. Image: Aston Martin.

As an appropriate tribute to a brand that has spent three-quarters of a century drawing attention throughout the continent, Aston Martin celebrated its 75th anniversary in the Americas during Monterey Car Week 2025. The British company demonstrated why it remains one of the most sought-after names in motoring, from the launch of the special Thrillseeker Collection to the eagerly anticipated introduction of the production Valhalla.

At The Quail — where Aston Martin’s custom Q division debuted the breathtaking Thrillseeker Collection — the festivities got underway in earnest. This convertible trio — each inspired by the changing light over Carmel Bay — will be produced in a limited edition of nine pieces. The DB12 Volante’s Seychelles Blue recalls midday splendour, while the Vantage Roadster’s Mako Blue captures the first light of morning. The Vanquish Volante’s Ultramarine Black completes the set by reflecting the increasing colours of twilight. The kit is finished with custom luggage and bronze details that allude to the Pacific sunset on the wheels, strakes and even the rotary dials.

Aston Martin DB12 Volante's Seychelles Blue

The DB12 Volante’s Seychelles Blue. Image: Aston Martin.

The production-spec Valhalla, however, was the real showstopper. Now more than just a concept, Aston’s first mid-engine supercar to go into production marks a turning point. Without losing a single bit of its spirit, the F1-bred plug-in hybrid brings the brand into the electrified era by fusing an electric punch with a screaming V8. After years of development, it made its debut at Pebble Beach’s Concept Car Lawn, signalling the beginning of a new era.

While setting up their own Valhallas, guests at Aston’s four-storey Spyglass Hill house sipped whisky with new partner Glenfiddich. Near the Thrillseeker vehicles were the most recent DBX S and Vantage S models, which brought back the cherished ‘S’ badging. The entire current lineup — from the formidable DBX707 to the magnificent V12 Vanquish — was available on Northern California’s best roads for those who were itching for some wheel time.

The production-spec Valhalla unveiled by Aston Martin. Image: Aston Martin.

According to Jolyon Nash, Chief Commercial Officer, “Monterey embodies everything Aston Martin stands for — craftsmanship, performance and prestige.” The evidence was visible everywhere 75 years after the Atlantic was crossed. This celebration was deserving of the winged insignia, from the space-age Valhalla to the hand-finished features of the Thrillseeker automobiles.

The week ended at the Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance, the scene of all classic Monterey tales. Aston’s VIPs were treated to front-row seats to motoring history as dawn broke over the 18th fairway. One thing became evident after 75 years in America: the best was still to come.

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Venetian Palace in Cannes with Panoramic Sea Views Listed for USD 140 Million

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Venetian Palace in Cannes with Panoramic Sea Views Listed for USD 140 Million

August 6, 2025
4:03 pm

Set in Cannes-la-Bocca, with sweeping sea views, this 3,000 m² estate is one of the French Riviera’s most valuable listings.

Perched on the scenic heights of Croix des Gardes in Cannes-la-Bocca, France, this Venetian Palace is an expansive estate spanning 3,000 m² of living space on 25,000 m² of land. With uninterrupted panoramic views over the Mediterranean Sea, the property combines Byzantine and Venetian architectural elements with the natural beauty of the French Riviera.

Monumental columns and intricate mouldings define the residence’s imposing façade, while the interior layout has been designed for both comfort and grandeur. This estate on the French Riviera includes nine bedrooms and twelve bathrooms, along with multiple reception rooms that accommodate both intimate gatherings and large-scale entertaining.

The grounds offer a full range of outdoor features, including a peaceful lake, a tennis court discreetly situated in the woods, terraced gardens, and a large outdoor swimming pool. Several additional pools have been integrated into the landscape to enhance the leisure offering. Inside, the home is fully equipped with state-of-the-art automation technology, providing seamless control over lighting, temperature, music, and security systems. A private cinema, a disco, and a climate-controlled wine cellar add to the residence’s lifestyle amenities, while a fully equipped gym, sauna, and steam room provide space for wellness and relaxation.

An elevator offers easy access across multiple levels of the residence, and air conditioning is available throughout. One secure garage parking space is included. The property is classified with an energy performance rating of D (215) and greenhouse gas emissions rating of C (21).

Represented by MONTY+CO Real Estate and listed under reference MCO-V-28, the Venetian Palace is priced at EUR 40,000 per square metre (approximately USD 46,755/m²), not including notarial, registration, or land transfer fees. The agency is based in Roquebrune-Cap-Martin, at 213 avenue Aristide Briand.

Click here for more information on this listing.

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Most prestigious cars on the market

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Most prestigious cars on the market

July 31, 2025
11:05 am

From luxury electric cars to coachbuilt marvels, these standout machines define automotive prestige in 2025 through avant-garde design and heritage craftsmanship.

Words: Sanjeeva Suresh

In 2025, prestige in the luxury automotive industry is not just about speed or badge power – it is about provenance and painstaking detail. As electric mobility continues to reshape the industry, a new generation of high-luxury vehicles is emerging with models that marry cutting-edge technology with the kind of craftsmanship once reserved for coachbuilt classics. These are not cars made for the masses. They are engineered to evoke desire and uphold legacies decades in the making. From the debut of four-door Ferraris to the quiet confidence of an all-electric Maybach, the most aspirational cars on the market today remain resolutely aspirational.

RollsRoyce La Rose Noire Droptail

Rolls-Royce La Rose Noire Droptail is a singular expression of coachbuilt artistry, inspired by the velvety Black Baccara rose and developed over a four-year period. At its core is a motif of abstract petals rendered in the most complex parquetry Rolls-Royce has ever produced, comprising 1,603 pieces of Black Sycamore veneer. Crafted in complete silence over nine months by a single artisan working in limited-hour shifts, the symmetrical triangles and asymmetrical red inserts resemble falling rose petals that cocoon the driver and passenger. This motif continues seamlessly across the aft deck, framed by two dramatic sail cowls that recall a yacht’s profile.

Measuring 5.3m long and 2m wide, Droptail’s roadster form is a sculptural ode to early Rolls-Royce proportions, featuring a ‘dropping’ rear and a striking negative body line. Its exterior finish, dubbed True Love, echoes the changing tones of the Black Baccara rose, from pomegranate in shadow to luminous red in light, achieved through a new paint process involving over 150 iterations and five layers of tinted lacquer. The darkened brightwork – finished in bespoke Hydroshade – mirrors natural light and adds to the car’s noir elegance. In a refined flourish, the reverse side of the grille vanes is painted in True Love red – visible only by indirect reflection.

Inside, the two-seat cabin marks a first for modern Rolls-Royce design. The fascia reveals the intricate parquetry, while the seats are trimmed in dark red Mystery leather and shimmering light red True Love leather. A low, enveloping layout reinforces the romantic character. The car offers two experiences: an open-air drive with the roof removed and a sleek coupé profile with the hardtop in place. With only four ever to be made, the La Rose Noire Droptail stands as a dramatically romantic celebration of automotive excellence.

Mercedes Maybach EQS SUV

With its sweeping silhouette, hand-applied two-tone paintwork and unmistakable Maybach grille, the Mercedes-Maybach EQS SUV signals a new era of electric prestige. This is not just the brand’s first all-electric SUV – it is the amalgamation of cutting-edge innovation with the meticulous craftsmanship that the Maybach is revered for. Offering up to 635 km of all-electric range (WLTP), 658hp of seamless power and fast-charging capabilities that take it to 80 per cent in just 31 minutes.

Inside, the cabin becomes a sanctuary of sensory indulgence: sustainably produced, vegetable-tanned leather makes its debut, paired with ambient lighting, high-end entertainment systems and Maybach-exclusive trim elements. The pièce de résistance is arguably the refrigerated rear compartment with matching champagne goblets and bespoke holders, ideal for moments that call for celebration on the move. From its stainless-steel pedal system to its intelligent energy-recovery technology, every detail is designed to elevate the driving experience.

Aston Martin Valhalla / Vanquish

The Aston Martin Valhalla represents a groundbreaking chapter in the marque’s 112-year legacy – a mid-engined plug-in hybrid supercar that sees road and track performance in unprecedented ways. Developed in close collaboration with Aston Martin Performance Technologies (AMPT), the Valhalla features cutting-edge innovations in dynamics, aerodynamics and materials, many drawn from Formula 1® technology. At its core is a bespoke 4.0-litre twin-turbo flat-plane crank V8 engine producing 828PS, paired with three electric motors delivering an additional 251PS – for a combined output of 1079PS and 1100Nm. It can accelerate from 0–100kmh in just 2.5 seconds and reaches an electronically limited top speed of 350kmh (217mph).

This is Aston Martin’s first series production mid-engined supercar and the first to feature a fully integrated plug-in hybrid system with dedicated EV range. A newly developed 8-speed Dual Clutch Transmission and an advanced all-wheel drive system with torque vectoring further to elevate its dynamic performance. The Valhalla’s design is equally striking, combining Aston Martin’s signature luxury with aerodynamic efficiency and dramatic styling cues. Limited to just 999 units, deliveries are set to begin in the second half of 2025, marking the arrival of a true road and track masterpiece.

Lamborghini Revuelto

Unveiled on the cusp of Lamborghini’s 60th anniversary, the Revuelto marks a bold new chapter as the brand’s first HPEV (High Performance Electrified Vehicle) hybrid super sports car. Fusing the raw power of a brand-new naturally aspirated V12 with three electric motors and a groundbreaking transversal dual-clutch e-gearbox, the Revuelto delivers an astonishing 1,015 CV (747 kW). It accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in just 2.5 seconds and exceeds top speeds of 350 km/h.

Performance is matched with advanced aerodynamics, LDVI 2.0 driving intelligence and a carbon fibre monofuselage inspired by aeronautics — a feat that improves stiffness and reduces weight by nine kg compared to the Aventador’s front frame. Visually, the Revuelto sees tradition and futurism with sharply sculpted lines, a central silhouette and an exposed V12 engine. Inside, a driver-centric cockpit embraces Lamborghini’s “Feel Like a Pilot” philosophy, combining symmetry, hexagonal elements and futuristic tech for a fully immersive driving experience.

Bugatti La Voiture Noire

A singular homage to the long-lost Type 57 SC Atlantic, the Bugatti La Voiture Noire embodies the marque’s legacy of pioneering design and unparalleled craftsmanship. Inspired by Jean Bugatti’s missing black Atlantic, this one-off creation is an exercise in automotive haute couture. Its elongated silhouette, flowing windscreen and helmet-like windows reflect Bugatti’s artistic precision. Six tailpipes subtly signal the immense power beneath its sculptural frame: the iconic 16-cylinder engine.

With a dorsal seam that recalls the Atlantic’s legendary fin, the car is a commanding presence. As with the original Atlantics — only four of which were ever made and just three known to survive. More than a revival, it is a reimagining of a mystery, a masterpiece resurrected for a new era of connoisseurs. Bugatti’s latest Mistral closed‑top record‑setter, and the one‑of‑a‑kind La Voiture Noire hyper‑luxury model, both showcase flagship speed and exclusivity.

Bentley Flying Spur Speed

Bentley’s fourth-generation Flying Spur debuts in 2025 as the marque’s most powerful four-door to date. This super sedan is powered by the new Ultra Performance Hybrid powertrain, which pairs a 600 PS 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8 with a 190 PS electric motor, delivering a combined 782 PS and 1,000 Nm of torque. Acceleration is staggering: 0–60 mph in just 3.3 seconds, all while achieving CO₂ emissions of only 33 g/km and an electric-only range of up to 47 miles.

Beneath its familiar but refined exterior lies Bentley’s most advanced chassis yet, equipped with Dynamic Ride, All-Wheel Steering and twin-valve dampers that allow for nuanced control between drive modes. Inside, the cabin has been elevated with new 3D diamond hide, wellness seating for all passengers and Bentley’s My App Studio, which integrates infotainment and smart services directly into the vehicle. With nearly limitless customisation options through Mulliner, a palette of 101 standard paints (plus bespoke matching) and three elite audio systems — including a Naim 2,200W 19-speaker setup — the Flying Spur is as much a feat of personal expression as it is of engineering.

Ferrari Purosangue

Marking a historic first for the marque, the Ferrari Purosangue is the brand’s inaugural four-door, four-seater vehicle — a bold move that remains rooted in the spirit of the Prancing Horse. Developed over 75 years of engineering ambition, the Purosangue delivers a seamless fusion of power, dynamic handling and refined cabin comfort. Aptly named “Purosangue” — meaning “thoroughbred” in Italian — it channels Ferrari’s racing heritage into an entirely new format, without compromising on presence or performance. Fuel consumption averages 17.3 l/100 km under the WLTP cycle, with combined CO₂ emissions at 393 g/km — a testament to Ferrari’s unapologetically potent character.

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Vanta: The SGD30 million Private Club Coming To Singapore

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Vanta: The SGD30 million Private Club Coming To Singapore

July 24, 2025
3:11 pm

A preview of Singapore’s most ambitious invitation-only membership to date

BY Esquire Singapore

(VANTA)

Don’t you love it when we play into the Crazy Rich Asians image that the world has of Singapore? We’ve got a couple of private clubs going, but a SGD30 million one? Yeah, it’s about time we raised the stakes.

Spanning a hefty 16,000 square feet at the newly transformed MacDonald House, you should know Vanta took two years of dedicated development. The extensive design seeps into every detail, from architectural layout to cultural curation.

Inside the two-level dining and lounge, Italian marble and quartz finishes are amongst the bespoke materials you’ll spot. And yes, the mezzanine towering over the main salon offers both panoramic views and discreet enclaves. Besides private dining rooms for immersive tastings and hosted masterclasses, the space also sports an impressive AI golf simulator to match.

Since gastronomy is the unofficial national obsession though, great sophistication goes into Vanta’s culinary approach. Michelin-starred Consulting Chef Alvin Leung helms the bold programme, so there’s much to anticipate from this innovative approach.

(VANTA)

Members also gain access to-the best part, in our humble opinion-an ever-evolving collection of investment-grade whiskies. Specially sourced, collectible bottlings; all in one storied cellar. Limited-releases also include vintages from some of the world’s most prestigious vineyards, coveted junmai daiginjo from legendary Japanese producers, and more.

“At Vanta, exclusivity isn’t about status-it’s about significance,” says Wayne Lin, Vanta CEO. “We’ve designed this club for individuals who are actively shaping conversations and leading change across industries. It will be a place where connoisseurs, especially those with a passion for whisky, wine and sake, can connect, collaborate, and define what’s next for business and culture.”

Vanta is set to open December 2025

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