Rimowa X Porsche Hand-Carry Case: Best of German Craftsmanship
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Rimowa and Porsche unite class and function — unveiling a sophisticated Porsche 911 inspired collector’s case, with only 911 numbered pieces.
By Cleo Yong
Slated to launch on 21 April, Rimowa Porsche have collaborated on a limited-edition handheld case, dubbed the Rimowa x Porsche Hand-Carry Case Pepita.
The two historic German companies are known for their relentless pursuit of perfection — both stay true to their rich cultural heritage while focusing on functional design, technical innovation and high performance.
Thrilled in seeing the momentous collaboration brought to life, Emelie De Vitis, Chief Marketing Officer at Rimowa shared: “Our partnership celebrates the unparalleled quality of German design as we both poured our wealth of expertise into a one-of-a-kind piece.”
“The partnership with Rimowa felt natural for both teams right from the start for me, this is always an indicator that our brand values align in a great way,” Robert Ader, Chief Marketing Officer of Porsche AG said, hoping that fans of both brands will be excited about the collaboration.
Made in Cologne, Germany, the sleek case pays homage to the brands’ most iconic design elements. It is crafted from Rimowa’s signature grooved aluminium and draws design cues from the first generation of the Porsche 911. With its highly functional wheel-free design, which features TSA-approved locks and a gleaming aluminium handle, the case can fit neatly in a Porsche car’s boot.
The high-gloss accents and details of the Hand-Carry Case reflect the silver mirror finishing of a first-generation Porsche 911. Clad on the sides are black leather straps attached by polished crest-shaped holders that echo traditional hood straps. And proudly placed on the case’s front is the authentic Porsche crest.
Inside the ultra-durable case is a zipped U-pocket and an X-strap to keep belongings secure while in transit. To complete the 911-inspired aesthetic, the Hand-Carry Case also has Houndstooth Pepita fabric, black leather accents, an imprinted Porsche crest, and a yellow instructional label similar to the engine compartment labels found in a Porsche trunk.
During the launch party on 8 April, the German luxury labels also premiered a faux spy thriller spotlighting the Hand-Carry Case Pepita. Shot by Dimitri Basil across Germany and Los Angeles, the retro spy film includes five distinct parts. Enjoy the videos on Rimowa’s YouTube playlist.
The exclusive case will be complemented by co-branded luggage tags. A Rimowa x Porsche Pepita Sticker Set featuring a trio of retro stickers will be sold separately.
With only 911 numbered pieces produced, the Rimowa x Porsche Hand-Carry Case Pepita will be available starting 21 April at €2,250 (US$2,468). The case can be purchased at select Rimowa stores, across Porsche’s global network of dealerships, and at shop.porsche.com.
Palace Magazine, Asia’s Elite Property Showcase, releases a new issue profiling the most exciting waterfront residences around the globe.
Issue 28 of Palace, Asia’s Elite Property Showcase
Palace 28 provides an array of interesting waterfront properties across the globe to invest in. After two long years on hold with lockdowns, vaccinated travel lanes are opening, so buyers are retreating to the water’s edge. A home by a lake, sea or river is a way to live luxuriously.
The latest issue of Palace Asia’s Elite Property Showcase, includes experts weighing in on the pros and cons of owning a waterfront property, plus features exploring the innovative design trends for these high-end domiciles.
Introducing the new Oyster Perpetual Air-King, Oyster Perpetual GMT-Master II, and Oyster Perpetual Yacht-Master 42.
By Terence Ruis
Rolex has pulled the curtains back on its catalogue for this year’s edition of Watches & Wonders, and it’s no surprise that the collection is superb. Ranging from the Oyster Perpetual Air-King to the Oyster Perpetual GMT-Master II, there’s a bit of something for every watch fan in this new release. Here’s a quick rundown on three of our favourite models.
Oyster Perpetual Air-King
Designed as a tribute to the pioneers of aviation, the Air-King is certainly worthy of its name. Featuring a completely redesigned case with crown guard and straight sides (like the majority of Professional category models), the new model exudes quality and class.
Proportions have been given a slight tweak as well, with the most notable change being a broadened center link. The new Air-King is also equipped with calibre 3230, a well-loved movement at the forefront of watchmaking.
Oyster Perpetual GMT-Master II
A guaranteed favourite amongst travellers, the GMT-Master II was built to go places. On this model, the crown and crown guard are placed on the left side of the watch. Another marked difference are the date aperture and Cyclops lens which have been moved to the 9 o’clock position.
These significant changes prompted Rolex to make several technical changes on this GMT-Master II. Made from Oystersteel and fitted with an Oyster bracelet, this GMT-Master II features a classic aesthetic and a two-colour monobloc Cerachrom bezel insert in green and black ceramic. This colour pairing is another first for this model.
Oyster Perpetual Yacht-Master 42
For the first time ever, Rolex is offering the Yacht-Master 42 in yellow gold — a nod to refinement. Previously offered in 18 ct white gold, the new model will be offered in 18 ct yellow gold. Like the original — which was first launched in 1992 — this Yacht-Master 42 will also include a bidirectional rotatable bezel with a Cerachrom insert and a raised graduation.
The watch is also fitted with an Oysterflex bracelet, and features calibre 3235. The Yacht-Master is the embodiment binding Rolex to the world of sailing, and this new release blends functionality, luxury and nautical style seamlessly.
Maven Global launches Drunken Monster utility NFT art collection
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Singapore’s first NFT community creates a collection of AI-generated art NFTs – each with a drink in hand.
By Joseph Low
The Drunken Monster Maven Club is wholly owned by Maven Global, Singapore’s first NFT community where artists, entrepreneurs, and CEOs from various leading industries such as art, finance, technology, and hospitality have collaborated to create an enabling environment for Asia’s greatest minds and innovators.
MAVEN’s co-founder & Art Director Sophy Zhang said, “We are building a close-knitted community not just for artists to display, NFT and auction their works, but also for collectors to mingle and network with financiers and CEOs from both traditional industries, as well as new emerging technology sectors like blockchain.”
MAVEN is not your typical art-based NFT platform, but is instead an ecosystem where the classical intermingles with contemporary, the East meets West, and traditional finance merges with new, decentralised Finance in a truly holistic lifestyle. MAVEN offers an exceptional hospitality service through their Virgin Palate bistro bar concept, developed at the hands of co-founder & Head of Hospitality, Mark Tay.
By collaborating with top-end galleries and for talented artists to showcase their artwork in the digital realm, MAVEN assists these artists in promoting their artwork via NFT published on its proprietary MAVENArt NFT marketplace and metaverse gallery. Members through the MAVEN membership app can also enjoy attractive deals, and place auction bids for these artworks using their MAVEN coin.
Drunken Monster Maven Club (DMMC) on the other hand is created by MAVEN co-founder Dave Cheng and his team of NFT advisors. “In MAVEN community I always enjoy having networking session with all the innovative entrepreneurs over a drinking session. This DMMC come across my mind where I think this Avatar can be symbolic, like us, a group of talented and high energy individuals who still spar ideas, concepts and enjoy quality conversations over a quality drink!”
Every Drunken Monster NFT has alcoholic beverage in his/her left hand as well as its own traits and rarity, affording each NFT different levels of utility from access to voting rights in the MAVEN metaverse, which is a collection of alternate digital realities where people work, play, and socialise. MAVEN wants to play a vital part in building this metaverse and create a realm for those seeking to raise their artist and/or collector profiles.
“Aside from the tangible benefits that we provide to all our DMMC NFT holders, we also prioritise service in digital assets management, whether it is about setting up an NFT wallet, crypto trading account to offering crypto concierge service in various Over-the-Counter (OTC) facilities. We offer crypto/digital assets advisory to reduce risk of mismanagement and maximise returns on their digital investments as long you are part of our community,” highlighted MAVEN co-founder & Chief Concept Architect Mr. JK
In a nutshell, DMMC does not just provide DMMC NFT holders with digital ownership and voices in the metaverse; we also provide our NFT holders with exclusive real-world privileges like exclusive access to rare collectibles, luxury events, art auctions, and future MAVEN projects.
#DMMC NFT Utility and Benefits
1. Earn passive income by owning DMMC NFTs (yields MAVEN Coins in accordance with rarity)
2. Networking and social interactions with artists, rare alcohol connoisseurs and collectors
3. Priority for rare art/whisky/wine/alcohol private auctions
4. Access to luxury brand launches and events globally
5. Access to launch of real world private equity deals and tokens
6. Access to exclusive MAVEN NFT owner merch stores
7. Ability to contribute up to 20 per cent of minted revenue into community fund for MAVEN supported social causes and engagements
Native offers Singapore residents and visitors new ways to enjoy the city
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A premier lifestyle concierge, Native’s website and App offers a wide range of curated experiences and exclusive events across the lifestyle, F&B, wellness, arts and culture sectors.
By Joseph Low
With the announcement that Singapore will be opening up in the coming weeks, it is the perfect opportunity to start planning for an exciting day in the Lion City. Explore Singapore with a fresh pair of eyes with the help from Native, a premier lifestyle concierge that helps you discover and get inspired. The young, fun-loving company has a wide range of curated experiences and exclusive events tailored for well-traveled millennials and those who like to have a good time.
Originally founded in 2018, Native is a Singapore-based travel booking site that has undergone a revamp in 2022. It was during the pandemic that Native’s co-founder Kevin Chow decided to expand the company’s product offerings, and shift its focus to elevated experiences and events within the tiny city-state. For Chow, Native is a conduit that links lifestyle partners (think restaurants, bars, art studios, yacht companies, and more) to like-minded individuals seeking an escape from reality. Similar to his dynamic nature, the company keeps up with what’s trending and in-demand to curate its selection of offerings.
In celebration of the lifestyle company’s revamp, it has launched a campaign to “Make your ordinary, extraordinary”. The #LikeANative campaign features exclusive events alongside specially curated activities in unique collaborations with top players across the lifestyle, F&B, wellness, arts, and culture sectors.
“The pandemic has forced us to a standstill, but who is to say we can’t find a little magic right at home? We still want to celebrate life, and Singapore has all we need. Get messy at a NFT art-jamming session, enjoy exclusive culinary adventures, or try out a simulated golfing experience for the first time. The Native audience will be surprised at the wide variety of activities we can do right at our doorstep,” says Kevin Chow, partner and co-founder of Native.
Image: Tammy Kwan / Native
Handpicked by Native’s team of global citizens, guests can have the chance to discover all the exciting and under-the-radar activities in their own neighbourhood. Who knows? There might just be a hidden gem located two streets away!
Some of the ongoing events and experiences include: A Gin Cocktail Masterclass at Flow Bar for the alcohol-lovers, conducted by award-winning mixologist Ricky Paiva; an exclusive Chef’s Table dining experience at Sake Labo, with front-row seats of the kitchen to witness culinary magic; and a hand-ons Rug-Tufting workshop at Studio An, where attendees can flex their creative muscles.
Image: Tammy Kwan / Native
What’s even more compelling about Native’s curated offerings is that they are seasonal. This means some of its events are available for a limited time only, so you’ll have to keep your eyes peeled for all the latest happenings. You can access Native via wegonative.com and mobile app to get inspired, and book your next convivial outing.
The Breguet Marine Hora Mundi 5557 Thrills With Its Ingenious Complication
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Travel at a click. The Marine Hora Mundi offers an instant-change dual-time function with memory function.
On the cusp of Watches & Wonders2022, Breguet(politely, as we would imagine) threw down the gauntlet to its esteemed horological counterparts for the GMT watch of 2022 with the release of the Breguet Marine Hora Mundi 5557. Having decided to revamp the Marine collection five years ago, the Marine Hora Mundi 5557 joins the likes of the time-only Marine 5517, Marine Chronographe 5527, and Alarme Musicale 5547 that were released in 2018. This introduction will not only see Breguet’s vision for the sporty outlier slowly coming to fruition but also allay lingering fears as many thought the initial move was a huge gamble by Breguet.
While the Hora Mundi is not entirely new to Breguet (having made its first appearance in the Classique Hora Mundi 5717 in 2011), this new piece signals its maiden foray into the Marine collection. In a nutshell, the Marine Hora Mundi 5557 allows the owner to cycle between the current and a preset time zone on demand. At the heart of the self-winding calibre 77F1 lies an instant-change dual-time display with a mechanical memory wheel responsible for this snappy action.
An additional module with programmable and reprogrammable mechanical memory wheels accounts for the time differences between the various cities. Actuating the pusher at seven o’clock changes not only the time but also the retrograde date and day/night indicator without interrupting the basic timekeeping mechanism. Kudos to Breguet for gatekeeping this bit of innovation as four patents were previously filed to ensure this is a well-guarded secret. While no details about the module were disclosed, we will not be surprised silicon components are in play given they have excellent shape retention and do not require lubrication.
Though much of the calibre remains relatively untouched since the Classique Hora Mundi 5717, the aesthetics have been reinterpreted to match the sporting elegance of the Marine collection. Many will be thrilled to know that water resistance has been vastly improved as well. Inspired by Abraham-Louis Breguet’s ties with the French Navy which began in 1814, a world map set against the seven seas serves as the dial for the Marine Hora Mundi 5557. The base layer is crafted from gold, with the wave motifs first hand-guillochéd being adorned with a shade of abyssal blue. A sapphire plate is later superimposed, depicting the meridians, parallels and continents with a turquoise outline representing the coastlines.
Beyond the masterful dial, creation lies intricacies waiting to be discovered. The continent plates feature subtle horizontal brushing while the photorealistic renditions of the sun and moon are hand-hammered before being set in rose-gold and rhodium respectively. A “u-shape” hand indicating the date at 12 o’clock is finished with brouillage — an updated ancient watchmaking decoration that creates a matte yet shiny effect. True to the Marine collection is the luminous Breguet handset and Roman numerals set on the flange supporting the various dial elements. All of these are set in either a 43.9mm white or rose gold case with the emblematic case side decors and paired with either a leather strap, rubber strap or gold bracelet.
Gooding Marks New Milestone With $13.4M 1937 Talbot-Lago
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This coveted US$13.4 million 1937 Talbot-Lago is now the most expensive French car ever sold at an auction.
By Cleo Yong
Image: Gooding & Company
On 4 March 2022, the Figoni et Falaschi-bodied 1937 Talbot-Lago T150-C-SS Teardrop Coupe became the most expensive French car in existence. The coveted vintage vehicle was expected to exceed US$10 million last month by the car world. Instead, it was sold for a whopping, record-breaking US$13.425 million in Florida during the Amelia Island Auction by Gooding & Company.
The 1937 Talbot-Lago
In the realm of cars, the Teardrop is touted as “one of the most enduringly beautiful automobiles of all time”. Only one of two cars sport an impeccable all-alloy Modèle New York coachwork. The elegant Talbot-Lago was the brainchild of three Italian visionaries in the late 1930s, who redefined the Parisian automotive scene — Anthony Lago, Joseph Figoni and Luigi Chinetti.
Image: Gooding & Company
This 85-year-old car, chassis 90107, has been the star of several automotive shows, including the prestigious Concours d’Elegance. Today, it remains a mechanic marvel, exceptional elegance and real personality car — without a doubt, one of the true masterpieces of industrial design with the French school of streamlined styling.
The Talbot-Lago had been repainted in dark red by the heir to Don Lee Cadillac, Thomas Stewart Lee. The car was also taken out to desert flats in east Los Angeles, where it timed at over 117 mph. Then, French car collector Lindley Locke acquired the car in 1956 and painted it white. By the early 1960s, the vintage beauty had retired to its Santa Monica garage, hidden from view for four decades. According to Robb Report, the 90107 was “treated to fastidious restoration work in the early 2000s” and returned to its original finish in blue with grey fenders.
Below the hood is a 4.0-litre inline six-cylinder engine with overhead valves and three Zenith-Stromberg carburettors, capable of 140hp at 4,1000 rpm. Additionally, the Teardrop is equipped with a Wilson pre-selector gearbox, four-wheel mechanical brakes, a live rear axle, and a front independent suspension with an upper wishbone.
The Auction
Image: Gooding & Company
The Talbot-Lago was not the only gem at the auction either. A 1991 Ferrari F40 sold handsomely for US$2.4 million. Meanwhile, the sale of the US$2.5 million 1967 Toyota-Shelby 2000 GT made international headlines and set the world records for the most valuable Toyota sold at auction and the most valuable Japanese car ever purchased at public auction.
German automaker Porsche comprised one-third of all cars sold during the auction. The entirety of all the marque’s lots offered was sold, with the US$2.9 million 1959 Porsche 718 RSK at the lead after a bidding war. A 2005 Porsche Carrera GT proved the current uptick of value and demand for Porsches produced in the 1990s and after by eclipsing the US$2 million record achieved earlier this year.
David Gooding, president and founder of Gooding & Company, said in a statement that the auction house brought some of the world’s most remarkable and most unique automobiles to which the market responded accordingly.
“Our targeted offerings reflected the tastes and interests of our buyers at this moment in time, and also reiterated recent trends in the market, especially with increased demand in rare, desirable, and customised Porsches and competition cars.”
California-based Gooding & Company realised over US$69 million in a day. It marked a milestone as its most successful and profitable Amelia Island Auction to date in 13 years of history. Indeed a spectacle, the firm achieved a 94 per cent sales rate from 93 out of 99 lots sold.
Image: Gooding & Company
The Next Step
Later this Spring, on 28 March, Gooding & Company will be conducting a two-week, online-only auction with prized automobilia lots. Its signature two-day sale as the official auction house of the Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance will happen on 19 and 20 August live. The company is also the official auction house partner and sponsor of the Concours of Elegance at Hampton Court Palace on 3 September.
Cartier’s Regional CEO, Cecile Naour, Talks About the Importance of Empowering Women
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Naour, who oversees Cartier’s presence in Southeast Asia and Oceania, explains how the Maison is “sowing the seeds to connect and support women”.
Cecile Naour, CEO Southeast Asia & Oceania at Cartier. Image: Cartier
Cecile Naour is a strong believer in phrase ‘when women thrive, humanity thrives’. The 175-year-old Maison has grown from strength to strength in the decades since its founding, something that Naour attributes to the company’s emphasis on nurturing female talent and fostering an inclusive, diverse environment for all.
“Leaning into the diversity of the team is very important to me,” says Naour, who joined the Maison in 2014 as a business development director, and made a steady ascent to regional CEO. “My priority is to give every one room to express their views and encourage exchanges that make dialogue richer and decisions stronger.”
Naour has seen first-hand the value of empowering women. The Maison’s long-running Cartier Women’s Initiative is a prime example of this. Now in its 15th year, the international entrepreneurship programme has benefited numerous female impact entrepreneurs: Awardees have ranged from a Kenyan woman whose company recycles waste plastic into eco-friendly lumber while creating jobs for people in marginalised communities, to a Chinese woman who uses artificial intelligence and big data to support the development of clean energy. Here, Naour talks about what more needs to be done to ensure lasting change, and offers her advice for women looking to pursue their dreams.
As someone in a traditionally male-dominated industry, what would you like to see change for women, and how do you think this can be accomplished?
Creating an environment that supports women development and career progression is necessary toinitiate change. Then creating the conditions for them to succeed in their role is even better!
Cartier has been empowering women for years, so women have an equal voice and chance to succeed in the Maison. This focus on nurturing female talent pipeline and accelerating the promotion of women into strategic positions became even stronger when Cyrille Vigneron re-joined Cartier in 2016 as President & CEO. Today, Cartier Regional CEOs in North America, Middle East, Japan and Southeast Asia and Oceania are women. It started with an unreserved trust in their leadership capacity… and it works!
In Cartier Southeast Asia and Oceania, 70 per cent of our employees are women and slightly over half of the regional leadership team are women. It took a while, but today we have found a good balance as a team and we like working together very much. This is precious, and I am mindful to preserve this balance.
The Cartier Women’s Initiative was established in 2006 and aims to empower women around the world in their various endeavours. How has the Initiative evolved over the years?
Cartier reaffirmed its commitment towards supporting women impact entrepreneurs at an event in Singapore held at the National Gallery. Image: Cartier
The Cartier Women’s Initiative gives women entrepreneurs a voice and brings their ideas to light. Fifteen years on, the Cartier Women’s Initiative has supported 262 women impact entrepreneurs hailing from 62 countries and has awarded a total of 6,440,000 million dollars in prize money to support their businesses.
The fellowship has expanded from funding five Fellows in 2007 to 24 fellows in 2021. Our Fellows continue to contribute and to learn from the Cartier Women’s Initiative, a lifelong community of more than 500 — and that just keeps growing!
You’ve been with Cartier, in various directorial roles, since 2014. What are some of your most memorable experiences?
In 2016, I was based in Dubai as the Maison’s Regional Business Development Director. I travelled extensively in the region where I met many incredible women. I was amazed by their brilliant minds, their proactiveness, and their optimistic view of their country’s development and the standing of women in the country.
They had strong beliefs which they shared openly and I really enjoyed and benefitted from my conversations with these women. My interactions with these women left a lasting impression of what empowered women can do. I also felt an immense positivity and optimism that we can, and are already, creating the right conditions for women to thrive. And when women thrive, humanity thrives!
In your experience, why should more employers place more focus on equitable employment?
Each employee is unique. My role as a leader is to detect, understand, appreciate and value the unique strengths of each individual and to create an inclusive environment that allows men and women to shine and reveal their uniqueness.
Leaning into the diversity of the team is very important to me. My priority is to give every one room to express their views and encourage exchanges that make dialogue richer and decisions stronger.
With the younger generation reshaping the future of the workforce, do you think women today will still face the same challenges as their predecessors?
As of today, it is still a challenge for women to have it all. Women face different conditions depending on where they live and work. Some countries are more favourable towards women having both career and family, while others are still learning and need more time to support women in handling both. It will require time, effort and active change in policies to sustainably anchor such changes in societies. At a company level, improving employee benefits can certainly help.
From my experiences and interactions with women living in the different countries of Southeast Asia, I am optimistic and hopeful that opportunities are opening up for them as women empowerment gathers momentum around the world.
What advice would you give women aspiring to become leaders?
Image: Cartier
My advice is for women in general, not just for those aspiring to be leaders. It’s important to go after your dream, your heart’s desire, whatever that may be. Find your own space and claim it because only you can.
This also means believing in your worth and having the courage to ask for what you want. Size up the opportunity when it presents itself, don’t hesitate to seize it. We need to have the courage to dream and do big, and be the change we hope to see!
Where would you like to see Cartier’s SEA and Oceania divisions in the next 5 years?
Cartier is a reference in the world of luxury, making creations that spark desire and stand the test of time. Cartier is known for an iconic style and a legendary art de faire. My hopes for Cartier Southeast Asia and Oceania is to continue to build on that legacy that makes both our clients and employees proud, but also go beyond and develop our purpose-driven mission and engage and nurture dialogue around the Maison commitments.
The Cartier Women’s Initiative is one of them. On International Women’s Day this year, we reaffirmed our commitment towards supporting women impact entrepreneurs across the Region with the Cartier Women’s Initiative (CWI). Building a community takes time, especially across a region as diverse as Southeast Asia, and we’re really sowing the seeds to connect and support women who are leveraging business as a force for good. We’re part of a global wave of positive change, the momentum is picking up fast in the region, and we will lead and be part of that transformation.
As a leader in the world of luxury, how else is Cartier supporting women to enact change?
Women’s Pavilion at Dubai Expo. Image: Cartier
We have brought together a global community of impact leaders with the Cartier Women’s Initiative, celebrating women impact entrepreneurs who are creating ripples of change around the world. Six months ago, Cartier opened a historic Women’s Pavilion at the Dubai World Expo, which is an incredible platform for sharing, dialogue and community.
As the first pavilion dedicated to women in more than a century, we collaborated with many creators and designers to recognised and celebrate the achievements of women all over the world and give hope to those who need. And we will continue to do so in time to come!
The Seastar 2000 Professional is Tissot’s latest iteration of the dive tool watch.
By Asaph Low
Whenever the “Professional” tag is given to not just dive watches, but any watch in general, the words extreme reliability come to mind, along with the image of a no-nonsense, tougher-than-nails watch. Such a watch is packed with innovative features that ensure tip-top performance no matter what fresh hell is breaking all around it. Tissot’s latest incarnation of the Seastar 2000 Professional fits that description to a tee but with a bit of fun thrown into the mix as well.
The Tissot Seastar 1000 is the Swiss manufacture’s range of dive watches built for watersports and exploration. With a water-resistance rating of up to 1000 feet (300m), they will perform suitably for the majority of scenarios. If more assurance is required, then the Seastar 2000 Professional looks set to offer it.
Standing head and shoulders above the current crop of Seastar 1000 models, Tissot ensures the “Professional” tag is not casually used, with an ISO 6425 certification setting the stage for the Seastar 2000 Professional’s ambitions. In order to be certified, the watch must meet the the strict standards set by the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) — water resistance (minimum 100 metres); resistance to external forces; resistance to thermal shock and magnetic fields; a dive timing device such as a unidirectional rotating bezel; hands that can easily be read in the dark and are clearly distinguishable one from the other; and a way of seeing that the watch is running even in the dark.
A quick glance through the specifications of the Seastar 2000 Professional suggests overkill. Tissot took the liberty of incorporating a helium valve that, when combined with a greater depth rating, allows for technical saturation dives. With dimensions of 46mm (diameter) by 16.25mm (thickness) and a massive, domed sapphire glass, Tissot addresses any concerns regarding a lack of robustness. The oversized hands and ceramic bezel inlay are filled with Superluminova for guaranteed legibility. Powering the hulking stainless steel unit is the Powermatic 80 calibre, here fitted with the Nivachron balance-spring rather than the silicon version. Nivachron is a titanium alloy that is anti-magnetic and resistant to shock and thermal deformation.
Beyond the supercharged specifications of the Seastar 2000 Professional is a youthful take on an otherwise serious watch. Performance meets style as three lighthearted dial colours replete with wave-patterns are aimed squarely at enthusiasts of extreme nautical style.
TAG Heuer does a lot of work with its low-key and perfectly accessible Carrera Three Hands collection. It also hides a notable four-hander…
When the TAG Heuer Carrera Three Hands dropped in October, we were surprised — the news was tied to the reveal of Ryan Gosling as the latest TAG Heuer brand ambassador and that was pretty big news. TAG Heuer says this new series of 13 watches (of four models) is a reinterpretation of watches from the early 2000s. Briefly, these are the TAG Heuer Carrera Day Date 41mm; the TAG Heuer Carrera Twin-Time 41mm; the TAG Heuer Carrera Date 39mm; and the TAG Heuer Carrera Date 29mm.
Now the Carrera is one of the best-selling collections for TAG Heuer, and that is hardly newsworthy. Of all the racing-inspired, themed and historically-linked collections, the Carrera is probably the best-known; indeed the word Carrera is as indelibly associated with TAG Heuer as it is with Porsche, and both are far more famous than the Panamericana race. This is actually important because Jack Heuer created the Carrera (the watch made its commercial debut in 1963 when it was called the Heuer Carrera) specifically for racing drivers. He did not make the watch with Porsche in mind; Jack was a racing gentleman himself and he thought the Heuer name should always be linked with motorsports. The Carrera legend arose in the wake of Jack’s success, but we digress.
The new 2021 version of the Carrera Three Hands models all share certain characteristics, aside from the speedy good looks that designer Guy Bove adores. All 13 references sport stainless steel cases, with all but one showcasing a new bracelet (with H-shaped links that need no explanation). TAG Heuer promises that this new design is a good fit, but we will have to actually try the watches before making up our own minds.
For dials, the brand keeps things simple, with a choice of black, white, blue or silver, with legibility still top-of-mind. Hands and markers are refreshed, staying true to the Carrera’s roots; it is doubtful that most will remember details about the original watches but it is a nice touch. From here, we will pay closer attention to the Twin-Time model, which is a limited edition. To be honest, the fact that this is a four-hander hiding within a three-hand collection won us over.
Calibre 11 and Fratello remind us that the Twin Time is not entirely new, so you can expect that Calibre 7 is still in play beneath the exclusively sunburst blue dial. The detail of the flange in silver and blue to highlight the day/night indication common to sporty GMT and dual time watches is well thought out. So too are the relative lengths of the many hands here, with the red-tipped second time zone hand being just the right length to cleanly indicate the 24- hour scale
Will Richemont Watchmakers Match Success of Jewellery Maisons?
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Richemont gears up for big horological reveals at Watches & Wonders amidst strong revenue growth in its jewellery business
By Ashok Soman
Following up on our report about the state of the Swiss industry, it is worth diving deeper into Richemont results ahead of Watches & Wonders.
The Geneva trade fair this year marks the first time the group is not the biggest player on the scene and represents an opportunity for brands such as Cartier, Jaeger-LeCoultre, and IWC to take a more assertive stance versus LVMH brands, as well as Rolex, Tudor, and Patek Philippe.
One particularly bright spot for Richemont is the return of Van Cleef & Arpels to the watch fair, which along with Cartier has been very impressive in developing its jewellery business. Not for nothing, both brands also boast very impressive watchmaking know-how and vision.
Image: Van Cleef & Arpels
In an official statement, Richemont cited revenue growth of 32 per cent (q-on-q) for its quarter ending in December 2021. Looking at the last normal year (2019), Richemont beats its own performance by 38 per cent, to offer better context for these latest figures.
Europe and the Americas accounted for much of this growth, as countries in these regions progressively make a return to normal life; China, which had opened up earlier but remains in its own pandemic bubble, registered sales growth of 7 per cent. Sales at Richemont rose to €5.658 billion euros (US$6.41 billion) in the company’s third quarter ended in December, a 32 per cent increase when currency swings were removed. The performance was 38 per cent better than the 2019 Christmas quarter before the pandemic hit, Richemont said in a statement.
Image: Cartier
“Richemont has made significant improvements at all levels and is currently in a sweet spot to create value,” Vontobel’s Jean-Philippe Bertschy told Reuters. While this advice relates to Richemont shares, it also reflects opportunities for the various brands within the group to strengthen their respective product offerings, and explore new retail and content opportunities. According to Richemont, direct sales to consumers continued their upwards trajectory, now representing 78 per cent of group sales, and online retail sales were also up 19 per cent.
Much of the group’s improved performance is down to its jewellery business, with sales at Cartier, Buccellati, Piaget and Van Cleef & Arpels up by 38 per cent. By way of contrast, watchmaking brands only improved by 25 per cent on the same quarter performance in 2020.
This follows a pattern for a few years at Richemont in particular, which has seen jewellery show more promise and tracks the broader industry as well. Take the example of how LVMH’s performance improved by unprecedented levels thanks to the inclusion of Tiffany & Co. numbers.
Image: Montblanc
Nevertheless, watchmaking activities at Richemont are unlikely to take a back seat this year, with great new developments at brands such as Montblanc expected — and indeed already revealed to us and other partners. There is a critical shortage in the market of certain key types of watches, and that is where watchmaking specialists can shine.
As we reported earlier, the key challenge will be taking advantage of the price segment between CHF1,000 to 3,000, which too many Swiss watchmaking brands have abandoned.
Cirrus Aircraft’s 2022 G6 SR Takes Personal Aviation To New Heights
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This new model is the company’s fastest and most fuel efficient aircraft to date.
By Joseph Low
Image: Cirrus Aircraft
The new 2022 G6 SR from Cirrus Aircraft is the company’s latest innovation which is set to redefine personal aviation. Built with the latest state-of-the-art technology and design elements, the 2022 G6 SR model is more fuel-efficient and owners can get better insights through syncing with the Cirrus IQ mobile app.
The SR Series is one of Cirrus Aircraft’s most popular models and has led the market as the “best-selling, high-performing, single-engine piston aircraft for 20 years in a row”. Over 8,000 units have been sold.
Continuing this momentum is the 2022 G6 SR model with its sleeker and more aerodynamic design. This is the fastest mode of the SR series all thanks to the redesigned wings, tail surfaces and wheel pants. As a result, the aircraft’s true airspeed is now nine knots faster than the previous models. “The new model’s ice panel transition seams are smoothed and wheel pant tolerances tightened to reduce drag,” the company said in a statement. These refinements contribute to reduced fuel consumption and faster flight segments.
Image: Cirrus Aircraft
Other than offering shorter flight times, the luggage compartment of the aircraft has also been redesigned. Access to the luggage compartment is now done with a key fob, unlocking the door wirelessly. To open, just push the button on the door and it springs up gently — going past 90 degrees and stays open during loading. The storage size has also been increased.
Paired with the new 2022 G6 SR is the Cirrus IQ software that not only provides information about the flight’s navigation status, owners can get insights into the overall performance of the aircraft. Information such as the aircraft status, inspection intervals and warranty expiration can be accessed through this new application.
Eight colourways are available for customers to choose from and the Cirrus Xi team has worked with Sherwin Williams Aerospace to develop a new paint formulation process to further enhance the colour definition and flexibility.
“The model year 2022 G6 SR is refreshed to seamlessly sync with your life –taking you further, keeping you connected and distinguishing your style in the air and on the ramp. This latest update to the G6 embodies our passion for continued innovation and commitment to design,” said Ivy McIver, Director of the SR Series Product Line. “We are excited to continue introducing more people to personal aviation and empowering their Cirrus Life story.”
“The new G6 SR Series is a testament to our devotion to constantly enhance both comfort and safety features across our product lines,” Zean Nielsen, CEO of Cirrus Aircraft further adds. “In 2022, we are poised to continue as the market leader in personal aviation and streamline the flying experience with the G6 SR Series aircraft.”
