lifestyle

Rolls-Royce Black Badge Cullinan “Blue Shadow”: To the Edge of Space

Lifestyle / By yachtstyle2020

Rolls-Royce Black Badge Cullinan “Blue Shadow”: To the Edge of Space

June 8, 2023
12:32 am

This new bespoke Rolls-Royce Cullinan is inspired by the Kármán Line, the boundary between Earth and the outer space.

By Joseph Low

“Exploration is wired into our brains. If we can see the horizon, we want to know what’s beyond.” This is a quote by the former American astronaut Buzz Aldrin, the second person to walk on the Moon during the renowned 1969 Apollo 11 mission. And since time immemorial, humans have been fascinated with what lies beyond our planet and our curiosity has only grown deeper through the ages. The race to space does not only pertain to companies or agencies like NASA; on the ground, car manufacturers are also looking towards the cosmos for inspiration.

British luxury car maker Rolls-Royce has recently unveiled the Black Badge Cullinan “Blue Shadow” Private Collection, which the marque said explores the “beauty and mystery of space” while never leaving the comfort of the car’s cabin. To create this spellbinding vehicle, Rolls-Royce’s team of designers looked towards the Kármán Line for inspiration. For those unfamiliar with the Kármán Line, it is an invisible boundary that defines the edge of space and is 62 miles above the Earth’s surface. Coincidentally, only 62 “Blue Shadow” examples have been made and are available exclusively through the brand’s Private Offices.

“Blue Shadow is a testament to our relentless pursuit of perfection and a celebration of the spirit of exploration, designed for the unique individuals who expand horizons and represent the very best of human endeavour,” said Torsten Müller-Ötvös, Chief Executive Officer of Rolls-Royce Motor Cars.

The Kármán Line is an ethereal region where the Earth’s blueness slowly fades and mixes with the blackness of space. This creates an intense dark-blue zone where darkness is visible, and more than a place for admiration, it is a mysterious world reserved for adventurous individuals who appreciate its serenity and unique atmosphere.

Starting from the “Blue Shadow” facade, it is painted in a new shimmering hue called “Stardust Blue”, which recalls the rich blue tones seen at the upper layers of the Earth’s atmosphere. The special Cullinan features a satin-tinted grille surround and aero bumper insert reminiscent of the thermal tiles used to protect Space Shuttles during atmospheric re-entry.

The same materials used in spacecrafts were utilised to craft the iconic Spirit of Ecstasy. The 3D printing technique involved titanium, which was then coated with a layer of blue-tinted lacquer. This added a pearlescent finish while revealing the titanium’s grained texture. The base of the Spirit of Ecstasy features the Black Badge infinity logo and the name of the “Blue Shadow” Private Collection, both of which are engraved and infilled with Charles Blue. Additionally, the wheels of Blue Shadow have been given a subtle darkening effect using translucent lacquer to complete the exterior look.

The blueish theme continues into the interior of the car’s dashboard and door panels. Specifically, the transitional shades of blue to black are captured using six layers of paint, where they are blended flawlessly to create a captivating three-dimensional effect. As with all Rolls-Royce cars, a bespoke clock is fitted and designed to reflect the Kármán Line with its blue anodised details and “Blue Shadow” engraving.

Looking up, Rolls-Royce’s fabled Starlight Headliner also gets an upgrade. Instead of just being surrounded by stars, an intricate embroidery of the Moon joins the celestial bodies. Sitting in the “Blue Shadow” is like one is brought to the edge of space and given front-row seats to admire these sparkling marvels up close. The embroidery comprises five different thread colours that create a distinct texture representing the Moon’s surface with its multitude of craters in three dimensions, and the embroidery process takes two full days to complete and involves 250,000 individual stitches.

The Starlight Headliner creates a soothing aura in the cabin, evoking a feeling of amazement. It boasts 1,183 stars, consisting of 799 white and 384 blue lights, meticulously inserted into the leather canvas through perforated holes that are accurately marked and punched by hand.

In a first-of-its-kind showcase, Rolls-Royce has made a unique and remarkable change by adding a perforated artwork to both the front and rear seats. This artwork is inspired by the stunning view of Earth from space and is created by using tiny perforations in luscious leather. The pattern resembles the graceful swirls of ever-shifting clouds over the continents and oceans. Each seat has over 75,000 perforations and had to undergo a meticulous design process that lasted two weeks before it was finally applied to these bespoke Cullinan.

Accompanying the “Blue Shadow” is a series of accessories the owners would need to travel to the edge of Earth. This includes a luggage set that corresponds to the colourway of the car. Furthermore, the owners can commission a 1:8 scale replica of the Black Badge Cullinan “Blue Shadow” with functional lights, coach doors, and a detailed interior. All 62 units have all found their respective owners.

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Armani Group continues growth in Q1 2023

Lifestyle / By yachtstyle2020

Armani Group continues growth in Q1 2023

May 31, 2023
11:03 pm

After increasing annual revenue last year by 16.5 per cent to €2.35 billion, Armani Group recorded positive growth of 18 per cent across all its sales channels in the first quarter of 2023..

By Joseph Low

There is much to celebrate at Italian luxury group Armani as the fashion house reported strong 2022 and Q1 2023 results as per the press release shared on 25 May. The group’s revenue ended 31 December rose 16.5 per cent to €2.35 billion when compared to 2021, and earnings before tax and interest grew 25 per cent to €289 million. As for the first quarter of 2023, Armani Group recorded positive growth of 18 per cent across all its sales channels.

As owners of Giorgio Armani, Emporio Armani and Armani Exchange, the group joins other companies like LVMH, Kering, Richemont and others in displaying resilience despite global and economic uncertainties like the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine and rising prices. “Notwithstanding a global economic environment that is still characterised by multiple crises, all sales channels registered significant growth in 2022 over 2021,” shared the brand in a press release. A balanced breakdown was observed with “direct retail up 17 per cent, wholesale up 16 per cent, and e-commerce up 9 per cent”.

The group further elaborated that in 2022, its key markets were Europe and America as both were the first to relax public health restrictions and travel was reinstated. Performance on these two continents was up by 24 per cent and 19.5 per cent respectively. In contrast, Asia as a whole saw a decline of 6.3 per cent and the group “[attributed it] to extensive lockdowns and the reintroduction of strict mobility limitations, which in China were only lifted at the beginning of 2023.” Despite the shortfall, its constant focus on service quality has enabled the group to achieve a strong performance that contributed to continuous growth.

“The medium-long term strategic path I have chosen to undertake continues to prove effective as is evidenced in the results: 2022 ended with further growth that has continued into the first quarter of 2023, further solidifying the Group’s soundness,” commented Giorgio Armani, Chairman and CEO of the Armani Group.

“I am firmly convinced that operating with a vision aimed at continuity, following a concrete and consistent approach, centred on the values that have always underpinned my creative and managerial philosophy, is the only way to face the challenges and unforeseen events that characterise the current global scenario.”

“In an increasingly difficult and competitive context, I am proud to have been able to maintain my independence and the stability of the Group, also thanks to the work and commitment of my collaborators and employees.”

On the other hand, in Q1 of 2023, the geographical trends showed a significant shift when compared to 2022. Where most of the growth recorded was from Europe and America, its sales were given an additional boost from Asia. Led by China’s reopening, it reported a 14 per cent growth while Europe climbed 22 per cent and America at only 10 per cent. A slowdown in America has been on the horizon, and other luxury companies have also seen its sales from the region turn sluggish.

Just last week, LVMH’s Bernard Arnault, the world’s richest person, had US$11.2 billion wiped out after concerns about a softening US economy which will dampen demand for luxury goods. A report by Bloomberg said that LVMH’s shares fell 5 per cent, and this was amid a broader decline that erased about US$30 billion from the European luxury market. Across the board, CEOs at different companies have acknowledged US’ declining growth but most are hopeful of China’s post Covid-19 recovery to offset these differences in sales.

In a joint statement, Chief Commercial Officer Giuseppe Marsocci and COO and CFO Daniele Ballestrazzi said: “The adjustment period that followed the decision to reorganise the company’s portfolio by focusing on its three main brands, namely Giorgio Armani, Emporio Armani, and Armani Exchange may be considered concluded on a positive note with highly satisfactory sales levels, corroborated by even better growth trends in operating profitability.”

“In 2022, direct brand turnover — represented by sales of Armani branded products made directly by the group and third-party licensees — reached 4.6 billion euros, with estimated retail sales of over 6.5 billion euros. We are advancing, well ahead of schedule, towards the objectives set for 2025, the year that marks the 50th anniversary of Giorgio Armani.”

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Aeronautical Acrobat: Bell & Ross BR 03-92 Patrouille de France 70th Anniversary

Lifestyle / By yachtstyle2020

Aeronautical Acrobat: Bell & Ross BR 03-92 Patrouille de France 70th Anniversary

May 25, 2023
1:31 pm

The vibrant blue of the Bell & Ross BR 03-92 Patrouille de France 70th Anniversary may be the first thing you see, but there is more to this beauty than meets the eye.

By Daniel Goh

The watches of Bell & Ross may be Swiss Made but the heart and soul of the brand are very much entrenched in France. Therefore, it makes perfect sense that for an aviation partnership, in 2021, they chose the Patrouille de France, an elite unit of the French Air and Space Force. This year marks the 70th anniversary of this prestigious aerobatic display team that has built its reputation on the prowess of its pilots.

To celebrate this momentous milestone with Patrouille de France, Bell & Ross launched a limited edition of their BR 03-92 which offers a dial in a mesmerising shade of blue, a colour that mirrors the team’s Alpha Jet. The beautiful dial is combined with subtle elements of colour in the form of the yellow Patrouille de France insignia, a beautiful logo to indicate its 70th anniversary and the colours of the French flag represented on a ring around the dial. This vibrancy is balanced nicely with the white Arabic numerals and hand tips to ensure the utmost legibility. It is, after all, designed with the input of the pilots.

The 42mm width of the square BR 03-92 case is made of the same high-tech ceramic found on previous models and it has also been given a matte black coating to ensure the case maintains a utilitarian look. On the back side, the designers have taken special care to fit in all five aircraft that have flown since the creation of the Patrouille de France in 1953. This includes the Thunderjet which was flown during the team’s debut, the Alphajet which has been in service since 1981, and the Ouragan, Mystère IV and Fouga Magister which have helped forge their legacy. These planes, built not for their destructive capabilities but rather for agility and manoeuvrability in the skies, have very interesting silhouettes adding to the uniqueness of the caseback.

The BR 03-92 Patrouille de France 70th Anniversary is powered by the solid BR-CAL 302 movement and the entire watch is water resistant up to 100 metres. Whether you are a Francophile, aerophile or just looking for a new shade of dial colour, this new launch from Bell & Ross will appeal to at least one, if not all the mentioned demographics. And at only 999 pieces available worldwide, you can be sure that it will quickly ‘fly’ off the shelf.

MOVEMENT BR-CAL.302 automatic

CASE 42mm in micro-blasted ceramic

STRAP PRICE MYR 17,600

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This At-Home Cosmetic Laser Is the Secret To Perfect Skin

Lifestyle / By yachtstyle2020

This At-Home Cosmetic Laser Is the Secret To Perfect Skin

May 23, 2023
8:26 pm

Hailey Bieber, Gywneth Paltrow and Kate Hudson swear by it.

By LUXUO

Renowned dermatologists and skincare experts consider LYMA — the world’s first clinic-grade, FDA-approved cosmetic laser — a game-changer for its anti-ageing and skin-perfecting results. Engineered with medically-backed laser light therapy, this at-home handheld device totally transforms the health and appearance of the skin.

Loved by A-listers like Hailey Bieber, Kate Hudson and Gwyneth Paltrow, the LYMA Laser treats everything from fine lines and wrinkles to pigmentation, sun damage, redness, blemishes, scarring, and sagging skin, leaving it glowing with youthful radiance.

New York-based, A-list facialist Joanna Czech used LYMA on her celebrity clients for the 2023 Oscars and Met Gala and also considers it a secret weapon for perfect skin. “I like using LYMA in my facials because it tackles all major skin concerns and helps my clients achieve their skin goals,” she says. “There are billions of cells in the dermis which degenerate over time and the LYMA Laser reverses this process by repairing the cells. It reaches the deepest layers of the skin, including fat and muscle, which is why I recommend it for all my clients, no matter their age.”

To understand why LYMA is generating so much buzz in the skincare world, here’s a quick science lesson. Unlike traditional LED lasers — like the much-hyped Fraxel — LYMA uses laser light therapy (a technology borrowed from the medical industry) that has the ability to travel deep beyond the surface of the skin to repair damage at a cellular level while turbo-charging collagen production. It does this without inflicting any pain or damage and there’s zero downtime.

100 times more powerful than LED lasers, laser light technology works to trigger a genetic switch inside the skin cells telling them not to die off, but to recharge, regenerate and repair. This reverses any damage that ageing or environmental factors have caused to healthy skin cells and instructs the cells to produce more proteins, collagen, elastin, and fight free radicals. The result? Younger, plumper, smoother, healthier, and more radiant skin. Yes. Please.

The slimline handheld light laser device is also super easy to use. Working in three simple steps, all you have to do is first apply six pumps of the LYMA Oxygen Mist to the face or area of skin requiring treatment — it works on the face, neck, chest, knees, body, and thread veins. Next, apply six pumps of the hydrating LYMA Oxygen Glide and then hold the LYMA Laser over each section of skin you’re treating for three minutes every day

“It’s the breakthrough beauty product of the decade,” says Graeme Glass, PhD FRCS, who happens to be a top London plastic surgeon and pioneering cosmetic skin care doctor, so we’re inclined to take his word for it.

In addition to renowned skin experts and celebrities raving about the incredible anti-ageing skin-boosting results of LYMA, skin devotees also believe it’s a miracle worker. Says one happy convert, “I am really loving the laser! I have been using it almost every day for a year and I have definitely noticed an improvement in my skin tone and texture, overall glowiness, and a reduction in hyperpigmentation.”

Another says it has wound back the clock. “I have been using the LYMA laser religiously and what a difference it makes! I am turning 50 and people have been complimenting me on how good my skin is.” You only need to look at these before and after photos to see that the results speak for themselves:

To try its complexion-perfecting powers and get a celebrity glow-up, shop the LYMA Laser Starter Kit here. The US$2,499 kit includes the LYMA Laser, accessories, a travel pouch, and a Membership card which gives you exclusive access to member-only pricing.

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The Luxury Car Industry Posts A Stellar Q1 2023

Lifestyle / By yachtstyle2020

The Luxury Car Industry Posts A Stellar Q1 2023

May 18, 2023
11:20 am

Leading the pack is Lamborghini with 46.1 per cent which amounted to €260 million and it is the best one yet.

By Joseph Low

The luxury sector is resilient. In the first quarter of 2023, major players in the field like LVHM, Hermès and Kering have beaten analysts’ expectations and achieved significant growth. In particular, LVMH, the parent owner of Louis Vuitton, Christian Dior and Tiffany & Co., is now Europe’s most valuable company at US$500 billion. What this means is that despite mounting inflationary pressures and economic uncertainty, the demand for luxury goods still remains high.

Extending beyond personal luxury goods like fashion, beauty and accessories, the sector for luxury cars is also seeing positive growth. Car makers like Lamborghini, Bentley, Porsche and Ferrari have posted double-digit growth for their respective first quarters. Leading the pack is Lamborghini with 46.1 per cent which amounted to €260 million. The Italian marque also mentioned that this was its best first-quarter result ever.

Stephan Winkelmann, the Chairman and CEO of Lamborghini said: “2023 will go down in Lamborghini as a landmark period in our history, and starting off our anniversary year with these figures can only make us proud. These results will allow us to tackle the upcoming challenges with increased enthusiasm. These include the start of the second stage of the “Direzione Cor Tauri” program, the most important investment plan in the company’s history, which will help Lamborghini to grow and develop even further.”

Bentley Batur

At British marque Bentley, its operation profit grew by 27 per cent to €216 million year-on-year while its revenue increased by 9 per cent to €882 million. The company said that “much of this was due to continued strong interest in model customisation, higher specification derivatives and higher option uptake, including the sales of unique Mulliner Coachbuilt and Limited Edition models.”

Porsche Macan S

While for German marker Porsche, it has been a great start so far as the company recorded a 25.5 per cent increase in revenue over the same quarter last year to €10.10 billion while the operating profit surged by 25.4 per cent to €1.84 billion. Among the different models, the SUVs are the most popular model with the Macan taking the lead at 23,880 units delivered to customers.

Ferrari Purosangue

For Ferrari, the company’s core earnings rose by 27 per cent to €1.42 billion when compared to the same period last year. As for the Prancing Horse’s operating profit, it is €385 million — a 25.3 per cent increase. The Italian luxury sportscar maker said it was reopening orders for the Purosangue, which had been suspended due to initial “unprecedented” demand. As one of the top models from the brand, Ferrari further shared that its order book filled up to the end of 2025 and those who had placed their order will have to wait until 2026 for it to be delivered.

With such a stellar first quarter, the financial performances of these luxury car brands show that the once perfect correlation between the stock market and luxury spending has been debunked. This is likely because the rich hold a more diverse portfolio and are less susceptible to market headwinds.

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Street Artist Colorz Welcomes You to His “Urban Domain”

Lifestyle / By yachtstyle2020

Street Artist Colorz Welcomes You to His “Urban Domain”

May 9, 2023
10:54 pm

Held at Cyril Kongo’s studio at The Mill, the opening night for the exhibition is on 13 May 2023.

By Joseph Low

French artist Sébastien Marc (AKA Colorz) will be holding an exhibition in Singapore at Cyril Kongo’s studio located at The Mill 03-03 this Saturday, 13 May 2023. The eclectic urban artist has over 25 years of experience and his works are found across the major cities like Paris, New York, Hong Kong and Tokyo.

“Le Purple” 2023

The exhibition, “Urban Domain” showcases Colorz’s unique artistic style that is known to be expressive yet controlled. Just like his longtime friend and fellow street artist Cyril Kongo, Colorz takes inspiration from the city’s streets. For Colorz, the streets of New York, Paris and many more are where sub-cultures are born and its rich social mores are encapsulated in his artworks. Acquainted with a host of mediums like canvas, aluminium and Plexiglass, the artist’s own brand of abstraction calls to mind great artists like Jackson Pollock and Gerhard Richter.

“Mon Amour” 2023

“Jam Session” 2023

Looking at his body of work, it is clear that the canvases are heavily textured in the sense that it is a combination of different elements taken from his personal experiences. The colours, layers and strokes are like a kaleidoscope — seemingly distinct yet harmoniously compatible.

“Mon Bonbon” 2023

“Urban Domain” is organised by Canvas & Cloth and enquires can be directed to Karen Rubenstein Lorato: karen@canvasandcloth.sg; Instagram @canvasandcloth.sg.

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Singapore hosts European Film Festival

Lifestyle / By yachtstyle2020

Singapore hosts European Film Festival

May 4, 2023
11:41 am

Showcasing the best of contemporary European cinema, the European Film Festival will be held from May 16-31 at The Projector.

By Joseph Low

“Cinema has the power to transport us to different worlds and open our minds to various perspectives,” shares Iwona Piórko, European Union Ambassador to Singapore. From 16 to 31 May, the European Union (EU) Delegation to Singapore will bring the best of contemporary European cinema to the heart of Singapore at independent cinema operator The Projector. More than 20 films across the EU and works from local young filmmakers will be showcased at the European Film Festival (EUFF).

While the EU and Singapore are seemingly distinct, the two actually have much in common. As a region comprising 27 member states, the EU is a melting pot of cultures, histories, languages and perspectives. In a similar vein, Singapore is a multicultural society with diverse groups of people from different backgrounds. Using the medium of film, society is not only entertained but is made known of salient issues through the storytelling of these filmmakers.

In our highly globalised world, it is impossible to stay isolated from the world and its ever-changing landscape. So, film festivals such as EUFF are platforms for these exchanges to happen. “[EUFF]’s continued run is a testament to the enduring power of cinema to bring people together and promote cultural exchange, even in the midst of unprecedented challenges,” Piórko adds in a statement. “I hope this year’s festival will continue to inspire and enrich audiences in Singapore and beyond.”

For last year’s edition, the EUFF picked Ukraine as its featured country and a Ukrainian film was chosen for the opening. Choosing Ukraine was a sign of support that the EU is showing for the country currently in conflict and as an organisation “we continue to stay united in our support for Ukraine and its people for as long as it takes.”

Sweden is the featured country this year, and the EUFF will open with the film “Hilma”. This critically acclaimed film explores the themes of love, loss and personal growth. Its protagonist is Hilma af Klint, a revolutionary Swedish artist and feminist pioneer. The film chronicles her journey in the 1900s as a female artist trying to break into a male-dominated field. The multi-layered and nuanced biopic also explores the spiritual beliefs that influenced her art and her body of work.

“We also continue our celebration of youth by championing their ideas,” Piórko shares at EUFF 2023 media conference. “In this context, our collaboration with young Singaporean filmmakers sees the screening of their films alongside the main festival shows. We present student films from three schools: Lasalle College of the Arts Puttnam School of Film and Animation; Ngee Ann Polytechnic’s School of Film & Media Studies and Nanyang Technological University’s School of Art, Design and Media.”

Tickets for the EUFF are priced at S$15 on weekdays and weekends and are available for purchase here.

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Breguet Quantième Perpétuel 7327: New Perpetual Calendar

Lifestyle / By yachtstyle2020

Breguet Quantième Perpétuel 7327: New Perpetual Calendar

April 28, 2023
2:01 pm

Breguet updates its Classique Perpetual Calendar with the new Quantième Perpétuel 7327 that comes just under 10mm.

By Ashok Soman

On the heels of Watches and Wonders Geneva, Breguet has revealed the new Quantième Perpétuel 7327, marking the debut of a new perpetual calendar from the storied watchmaker. In a season dominated by chronographs — Breguet has its own something-something coming up — it is great to see a new execution of the most complex of all calendar mechanisms, the perpetual calendar. This writer is somewhat biased towards calendar complications, and to asymmetric dial layouts so the Breguet Quantième Perpétuel 7327 is a straight-up win. Collectors should note that reference 7327 is a replacement for reference 5327, the Classique perpetual calendar that was a mainstay of that collection. You can see from the layout of displays on the dial that there is a new calibre at work here.

We begin with the new automatic calibre 502.3.P, which delivers a highly unusual retrograde date display (between 9 o’clock and 12 o’clock on the dial); this is the most obvious sign that there is a new movement here, and is how we distinguished this model. Oddly, Breguet did not lead with this information in its publicity materials (we have not seen it in person), yet this is precisely what collectors should take note of. Basically, it makes reference 7327 an important milestone for Breguet. The hairspring and anchor are in silicon, which is par for the course at the manufacture, and the escapement beats at 3Hz.

Significantly, the calibre is just 4.5mm thick, allowing the case to come in at under 10mm — this is just right to fit under a sleeve. Breguet faithful will recognise calibre 502.3.P as an evolution of the ultra-thin calibre 502 (and thus another upgrade to the original Frederique Piguet calibre 70, as reported by Watches by SJX), and the brand says that the calendar mechanism was added as module. There are a total of 294 components in total. The modular construction is perhaps slightly disappointing for purists who insist on integrated calibres, but we think that reference 7327 should be judged on its overall merits (for the record, we would love to see how the 21st century Breguet manufacture would approach engineering a perpetual calendar from the ground up, particularly with regards to the 45-hour power reserve, which is well below contemporary expectations).

While we have not seen the watch in the metal, Breguet lists an impressive list of finishing arts here, including a circular barleycorn motif (rose-engine handworked) on the oscillating weight, Geneva stripes on the bridges, and chamfered edges on many components. A look at the real calibre will reveal a lot about the quality and nature of the finishing, but Breguet is certainly on par with other brands at the haute horlogerie level.

Turning to the case and dial, note the fluting on the case middle and the straight lugs, both of which are Breguet staples. The 39mm watch is available in white gold and rose gold, but the dial and hands remain the same in both. The hands are called “Breguet” because Abraham-Louis Breguet came up with the design, but the brand also prosaically refers to this style as “moon” tip hands. Overall, the 7327 is very fetching, including the update to the moon phase display (no more smiling anthropomorphised moon), and the balance of the information on the guilloche dial.

We have some questions about the fit here, given the style of lugs, and we will return to this story with updates once we see the watch. Having said that, if you are in the market for a distinctive perpetual calendar with a grand story, and have S$116,300 to spare (same price in either gold), the Quantième Perpétuel 7327 might be it.

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Succession and the World of Luxury

Lifestyle / By yachtstyle2020

Succession and the World of Luxury

April 20, 2023
10:09 am

There are two camps of people –one that is obsessed with overt portrayals of wealth, and another that prefers to lay low.

By Gabriela Serpa Royo

If Emily in Paris reflects luxury in a society that has vastly democratised and made a spectacle of what it means to be and look “luxe”, the clothes of Succession sneer at that notion. Recent shifts in culture, like the rise of celebrity influencers and the advent of thrifted or rented designer goods, have changed the rules of the luxury market entirely, making it possible for more people to participate in the category than ever before. There are two camps of people: one that exalts in owning logo-filled fashion pieces or outwardly portraying their wealth with the number of sports cars and yachts they own; and the other, who prefers to go incognito while still enjoying a luxuriant lifestyle.

Characters in the award-winning show, Succession, fit neatly into the latter category. For those who have a penchant for conspicuous showing of wealth, the self-effacing nature of Succession fashion feels impenetrable and mysterious, if not also unsettling and indecipherable. For years, the show’s characters have garnered attention for their outfits, part of the fanfare being that the clothes worn by the uber-wealthy characters are understated and unbranded.

Jeremy Strong as Kendall Roy in Succession.

In the Succession season 4 premiere, Kendall Roy, one of the show’s protagonists, wears jeans, a t-shirt, a bomber jacket and a baseball jacket, a combination that at face value, could be from Uniqlo. After some sleuthing, it was determined that the outfit was a combination of pieces by Gucci and Loro Piana that cost a little under 10K. Society for a long time has been accustomed to overt display of wealth, yet Succession’s has camouflaged their on-screen billionaires in inconspicuous wealth. Where online aspirationationalism can often parade as a rotating cycle of expensive monogrammed handbags, Succession paints an image of luxury that ignores trends entirely.

Not everyone can afford that luxury. Season after season, we see supporting characters desperately struggling to dress the part in the Roy family’s world. From the show’s very first episode, when family patriarch Logan Roy all but sneers at the Patek Philippe gifted to him by his son-in-law, the audience is made to understand that to be a try-hard is a faux-pas, no matter the price tag. A season later, his son Kendall (who is admittedly the most try-hard of the Roy siblings) dresses the part of an art startup bro in a bid to invest in a company. Recognising himself as a poser, he interrupts the meeting to take off the Lanvin shoes that he bought for the occasion. Embarrassed, the richest guy in the room outs himself as an outsider and loses his shot. Not even his money could grant him insider status.

Today, in the age of “picture or it didn’t happen” luxury is arguably more about status than it is about money, comfort or experience. When Greg Hirsch, played by Nicholas Braun, shows up to Logan Roy’s birthday party with a date donning a $2,890 Burberry tote, it’s an immediate red flag for Succession’s elite, who immediately dismiss her bag as “ludicrously capacious”. “What’s even in there, huh? Flat shoes for the subway? Her lunch pail?” says Matthew Macfadyen’s character, Tom Wambsgans. “I mean, Greg, it’s monstrous. It’s gargantuan. You could take it camping. You could slide it across the floor after a bank job”.

The internet has since been littered with debates about the exchange as an obnoxious display of elitism, a judgement on fashion, and of course, the value of the bag itself. People on social media have been quick to label their own accessories as “ludicrously capacious”, and news outlets have quickly gotten in on the joke, advertising the best capacious bags of the season. Meanwhile, people are signalling the return of the “old money” aesthetic, dubbing the “quiet luxury” look a massive trend to watch for 2023. What’s fascinating about the moment’s influence isn’t its reach (any show with a massive following is expected to turn memeable in the blink of an eye), it’s how reactions to the bag are splintered, and what that splintering shows us about the fragmentation of luxury itself.

Culture is always fragmenting itself, the cracks getting deeper and more reflective with every passing year that we’re online. Back in the early days of Instagram, the rise of so-called “hipster” culture meant that everyone was trying really hard to be alternative. ‘Normcore’, an aesthetic built on the promise of plainness, and a rejection of individuality altogether, was born as a reaction to a culture obsessed with difference. One group found status by playing into the tide of pop culture, while the other did it by ignoring it aggressively, and self-awarely.

Today, when social media’s grasp on our lives has expanded beyond notions of cool, and into pretty much everything else, luxury finds itself in a similar situation. On one side sits Emily, making a name for herself on social media with her loud prints and love of the ludicrous (albeit not necessarily capacious). On the other are the Roy siblings, with their Loro Piana shoes, $500 baseball caps and a whole host of “investment normcore” pieces. Both sides are dressed to reveal different beliefs about luxury, but both sides play into luxury as a telltale sign of status all the same. Even, like when in Succession, luxury doesn’t need ostentation, it is a “flex” all the same. In a media climate that begs people to constantly express who they are, our decisions about how we do and do not choose to express luxury are about who we aspire to be. Where luxury was once about scarcity and exclusivity, the word has mutated it into something else entirely, with tentacles spreading in every direction. To be an Emily, or to be a Roy, it’s all a matter of decision, but in 2023, both are luxe.

This article was contributed by Gabriela Serpa Royo, Behavioural Analyst, Canvas8.

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Lamborghini Revuelto: The First Super Sports V12 Hybrid HPEV

Lifestyle / By yachtstyle2020

Lamborghini Revuelto: The First Super Sports V12 Hybrid HPEV

April 13, 2023
12:03 pm

The latest model features an aspirated V12 engine and three electric motors with a total of 1,001 horsepower.

By Joseph Low

When Lamborghini announced that it would discontinue the production of the Aventador, it signalled the end of an era. For a decade, the Aventador represented the pinnacle of luxury sports cars, and the last naturally aspirated Lamborghini to be produced in Sant’Agata Bolognese was the Aventador LP 780-4 Ultimae Roadster. But following months of teases and speculations, the Raging Bull has unveiled a successor for the Aventador, the Lamborghini Revuelto — the first super sports V12 hybrid plug-in HPEV (High Performance Electrified Vehicle).

This beast is a befitting sports car to celebrate the 60th anniversary of Lamborghini while also marked the first foray into the world of electrification by the Italian automaker. According to the plans set forth by the brand, it is on track to become electrified, and the Revuelto is the first hybrid model from Lamborghini. Powering the Revuelto is a combination of an internal combustion engine as well as three electric motors. The former is Lamborghini’s signature 6.5-litre V12 engine, which has been used in its flagships for decades. With the aspirated engine alone, the Revuelto can deliver 814bhp at 9,250rmp and 725Nm of torque. Combined with the three electric motors, the car can hit 1,001bhp.

As for the “newer” component of its powertrain, two motors are located on the front axle and another above the eight-speed double-clutch gearbox. A lithium-ion high power battery pack powers the three motors. Coupled with the ICE, its acceleration from 0 to 100km/h only takes 2.5 seconds, and it can also hit a top speed of more than 350km/h.

The battery motors are recharged via three methods: charging via an outlet that only takes 30 minutes to recharge fully; regenerative braking from the front wheels; or directly from the V12 engine in just under six minutes. With such a powerful car, one would expect the batteries to be heavy, but Lamborghini has kept it at 70kg. To further mitigate the effects of the battery pack, the Revuelto is built upon the marque’s new aeronautics-inspired chassis, the “monofuselage”. This chassis is made of multi-technology carbon fibre, with forged composites for the front structure, allowing for a 25 per cent increase in torsional stiffness over the Aventador while being 10 per cent lighter.

The Revuelto has a striking appearance that is sure to turn heads. While the powertrain is the most talked-about aspect of the car, its design is just as impressive. With a wedge shape, sharp angles, and scissor doors, the Revuelto is an exaggerated version of the Aventador, complete with a rocket ship-like rear and a front fascia featuring hooded headlights and Y-shaped running lights. Despite its aggressive exterior, the cabin is surprisingly spacious, with more headroom than previous Lamborghini models. The driver’s cockpit resembles a fighter jet with three digital displays, including a 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster, an 8.4-inch infotainment screen and a slightly larger display at 9.1-inch for the passenger. To maximise the hybrid powertrain, the driver can choose from 13 driving modes using the squared-off steering wheel and infotainment system, including Recharge, Hybrid, and Performance.

Overall, the Revuelto is a beautiful and innovative supercar from Lamborghini. Its potent new powertrain is sure to capture attention, but the design and interior of the car are also noteworthy. With a unique and bold exterior design and a spacious and technologically advanced cabin, the Revuelto is a step forward for Lamborghini as it embarks on a new era of electrification. The driver can choose from various driving modes to make the most of the hybrid powertrain, and the fighter jet-style cockpit will surely make for an exciting driving experience.

“The new Revuelto is a milestone in the history of Lamborghini, and an important pillar in our Direzione Cor Tauri electrification strategy,” said Stephan Winkelmann, Lamborghini Chairman and CEO. “It is a unique and innovative car but at the same time faithful to our DNA: the V12 is an iconic symbol of our super sports heritage and history. Revuelto was born to break the mould, combining a new 12-cylinder engine with hybrid technology, creating the perfect balance between delivering the emotion that our clients want with the necessity to reduce emissions.”

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