Igor Dobrowolski: Creating Meaningful Artworks That Inspire Many

Lifestyle / yachtstyle2020

Igor Dobrowolski: Creating Meaningful Artworks That Inspire Many

February 10, 2022
12:19 am

For the artist, his art stems from his desire to use his gift for the betterment of society.

By Joseph Low

A person’s relationship with art is highly personal. It could start from a young age or it would blossom as we grow older. For Polish artist Igor Dobrowolski, it was the latter and he didn’t officially kick-off his journey as an artist until 2014 but had dabbled with painting from a young age. Before that, he was working on his dream of becoming a professional BMX rider as he thought it was his calling.

The path Dobrowolski had set up for himself as a BMX rider involved at least eight hours of practice a day — even during the weekends and holiday seasons. He did this for seven years but despite his hard work, Dobrowolski did not see the desired results he wanted and decided to call it quits.

As Alexander Graham Bell famously said, “When one door closes, another opens”, Dobrowolski soon found a new opportunity. He began designing high heels, handbags, and accessories for women after a surreptitious event.

“I felt that I had a great talent and ease for [design], plus the ability to work constantly on my gift,” the artist says of his new venture. “I saw how new designs of shoes, bags, and jewellery quickly appeared in my head, and thanks to working on my painting skills I was able to present the designs.”

The switch from being an aspiring extreme sports athlete to a designer is unconventional, to say the least. But that is the beauty of life, isn’t it? Dobrowolski credits his change in career to “luck or intuition” and this new chapter lasted for another seven years.

One could say Dobrowolski’s first artwork was a large painting he did in relation to the difficult situation some girls faced in India. Continuing his creative outflow, Dobrowolski created more paintings and these had the seal of approval from his brother and girlfriend. Through this new medium of communication, the artist felt he could “convey a lot more” and had more freedom to express himself.

Fast forward to today, Dobrowolski is into his eighth year of being a full-fledged artist. His body of works spans different styles. His next masterpiece could be a large oil paint, which he likens the material to “analogue photography”. The artist further adds that “oil paint has a sense of truth”— it is able to capture the raw emotions he wishes to relay to his viewers.

A quick browse of Dobrowolski’s paintings, one would find that his artworks are mostly monochromatic, with occasional splashes of colours. “Realistic monochrome paintings are one of the many things I create artistically,” the artist says. “I also paint more abstract paintings with my left hand, my inner child.”

He doesn’t confine his art to just traditional forms such as painting but also street art and sculptures — this multidisciplinary approach makes it difficult for him to pinpoint his style and he leaves that to the critics to decide.

Conversations these days are usually centred on the impact of Covid-19 on our society. The same question was posed to Dobrowolski, to which he answered that our society is living in a paradox.

“The whole pandemic, I think, showed how one person is connected to another, and how what happens in one country has a huge impact on it in another. We are connected vessels,” says Dobrowolski.

“But also, unfortunately, now you can see how divided we are and this is one of the reasons why this world is where it is.”

To wrap one’s head around this predicament can take a toll on the body and Dobrowolski turns to yoga and meditation to alleviate stress and to find inspiration. He says doing meditation allows him to “look at [his] thoughts and to find a space in [his] head”. Similarly, yoga helps to “releases all sorts of traumas and heavy emotions that are stored in the body much better than any medicine we know”.

With a clear mind, Dobrowolski is then able to transmit his thoughts and messages more clearly into his paintings. He shared that his artworks on the chaotic situation in Yemen were one of his proudest works. Throughout Europe, where his art pieces can be seen, elicited strong responses and had even inspired a girl to help raise £250,000 for the Red Cross. “It was an amazing moment that showed me that my stories really make a difference,” says Dobrowolski.

Therefore, when asked if he was a socially engaged artist, Dobrowolski agrees 100 per cent. Being relatively privileged compared to those who may be leading a more difficult life, Dobrowolski feels that he has a moral duty to help those who are not.

Image: Igor Dobrowolski

Perhaps it is the desire to use his gift for the greater good or maybe his artworks are able to subconsciously connect with his viewers, the results are evident: Dobrowolski’s exhibition in Taiwan was a huge success — he sold all his artworks.

Moving forward, his partnership with Art Works is another cooperation he looks forward to this year — he will be staging a solo exhibition in Singapore. “They are very professional but also really warm and this is a great rarity in the world of art and maybe the whole world. I think great things await us together.”

Art Works is a Singapore-based art gallery and boutique advisory firm that is on a mission to break down the longstanding notion that art is only reserved for the elites of society. Its unique proposition has appealed to artists like Dobrowolski, who wishes to make his art pieces accessible to as many people as possible. Therefore, the relationship between the two is an ideal match.

On a more personal note, Dobrowolski also shared with us who he thinks are his mentors in his life. To him, his family are the ones closest to him and each impacts different lessons to him, then there are also others like author Noam Chomsky, political scientist Norman Finkelstein and journalist Chris Hedges. These people are great professionals in their fields but they all have a great heart on many levels.

Click here to read the interview with Troy Sadler, Managing Director of Art Works Group. Follow Art Works on their Instagram: @artworks_sg and Igor Dobrowolski on his Instagram: @igor_dobrowolski

Demarest Clinic specialises in “giving back time to people”

Lifestyle / yachtstyle2020

Demarest Clinic specialises in “giving back time to people”

February 9, 2022
11:34 pm

The new Demarest Clinic in Phuket specialises in regenerative medicine and offers special week-long anti-aging packages at an exclusive island resort and even on a superyacht.

William D. Johnson (below logo) with members of the medical team and Advisory Board

Thailand is renowned for medical tourism, but the country’s offerings recently moved to a new level with the opening of the pioneering Demarest Clinic in Phuket. Specialising in stem-cell therapy and incorporating some of the most advanced technology of its kind in Asia, the spectacular two-storey facility occupies almost 6,500sqft at Royal Phuket Marina on the island’s east coast.

Guests are welcomed by a pristine-white yet relaxed environment that’s energised by splashes of uplifting pop art and inspiring messages to put a smile on your face.

Demarest Clinic covers almost 6,500sqft

Through sister company RenewyouAsia, the clinic offers regenerative cell therapy packages at an exclusive three-villa island resort on nearby Koh Rang Noi along with a night aboard the 106ft Demarest superyacht, which is owned by the man behind this game-changing initiative.

William Demarest Johnson, founder and CEO of Demarest Clinic and RenewyouAsia, has been passionate about stem-cell therapy ever since it saved his life. Just over a decade ago, he caught a rare virulent antibiotic-resistant pneumonia that led to late-stage heart failure and much of his heart tissue being destroyed, with doctors giving him 1½ years to live.

Johnson says “stem cells saved my life” and is committed to helping develop the therapy in Asia

The youngest son of Charles Johnson, the multibillionaire founder of the Franklin Templeton Mutual Funds, ‘Bill’ Johnson travelled to the Bahamas for experimental stem-cell therapy.

It not only helped him recover – he’s now in his late 50s and “feels 35” – but led him a decade later to bring regenerative medicine’s latest technologies and research to Asia.

The pristine white décor is livened up by pop art

“Stem cells saved my life. I was in heart failure and now I have a normal life expectancy. The last 10 years have really proven that stem cells are safe and going mainstream. It’s become my religion and I can’t imagine anything more important than giving back time to people to do the things they love,” Johnson says.

“Regenerative medicine restores the body to a previous state, younger and healthier, by supporting the body’s own healing mechanisms. It has achieved stunning results in so many areas, like heart failure, where traditional medicine has no options. We are the first generation to unravel the mystery of aging. It’s treatable and reversible. The Demarest Clinic offers all types of regenerative medicine as they become available.”

GLOBAL EXPERTISE

Dr Aysegül Çoruhlu, a Medical Advisor, samples a treatment at the clinic

Both Demarest Clinic and RenewyouAsia have impressive Advisory Boards made up of international industry leaders who have studied and worked in the US, across Europe and Asia, while the onsite medical team also has extensive experience in stem-cell and regenerative cellular medicine.

The clinic features an extensive range of regeneration protocols and cellular therapies, while its medical hardware includes a satellite medical laboratory, IV (intravenous) lounge, Weber Laser IV therapy, PRP (platelet rich plasma) centrifuge and Oxyven therapy.

The clinic spans two floors at Royal Phuket Marina

The clinic prides itself on maintaining the highest international standards and its process of culturing, preserving and activating cells is certified by The American Association of Blood Bank (AABB).

“From our inception, I have employed dedicated researchers to comb clinical trials and medical journals to keep us at the forefront of the industry. No one has a more comprehensive programme to evaluate, prepare and regenerate you,” says Johnson, who says clients range from their 30s to seniors.

The facility enjoys resort-style views

“You are never too old to get young again. Our clients want to maximise their cognitive function and live in a younger body. In other cases, we even have clientele that return every three months to service their livers because of the ritual of alcohol consumption in their business.”

MENU OF TREATMENTS

In fact, a lot of the clinic’s offerings are very affordable. Advanced medical services include Nicotinamide Adenine Dinucleotide (NAD+) IV treatments (US$315-420), placenta injections (US$270) and a range of platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapies (US$480-2,220). The clinic’s cutting-edge technology includes intravenous laser blood irradiation (US$195), Oxygen IV therapy (US$210) and shockwave therapy (US$330).

Myers’ Cocktail is among many IV treatments ranging from US$120-270, which also include Chelation, COQ10, Energy Drip, Full Body Detox, Immune Booster, L-Carnitine, Skin Booster and Vitamin. More expensive IV treatments include Epigallocatechin Gallate (US$405), Curcumin (US$495) and Resveratrol (US$630). The clinic also provides aesthetic dermatological procedures.

Demarest Clinic offers a wide menu of treatments

“We have everything required to provide the most innovative cutting-edge treatments,” Johnson says. “We almost have new ones every month.”

Late last year, Demarest Clinic released its Executive Regeneration Package for busy executives, a four-day package that introduces the multiple benefits of regenerative medicine. The package starts with a comprehensive blood analysis and review from the medical team, which then explains regenerative therapies focused on improving health, metabolism and overall well-being.

The Executive Regeneration Package starts from US$1,770, with separate accommodation packages available through the clinic’s partners, Kata Rocks and Anantara.

RENEWYOUASIA RETREAT

Regenerative cell therapy features in a range of top-end RenewyouAsia packages, which include several nights at Koh Rang Noi – a 10-minute boat ride from Royal Phuket Marina – and a night on the Demarest superyacht.

RenewyouAsia packages are based at Koh Rang Noi, which has a spa, gym, cinema, water sports

“Regenerative medicine has no down time, which is why it’s such a perfect fit for a luxury vacation,” Johnson says. However, cellular medicine has a wide scope of protocols, and the body must be cleaned and balanced before introducing stem cells to repair and regenerate.

Johnson describes age reversing as a “complex process” and advises one treatment a year, although says one-off treatments are suitable for chronic pain or other cases. RenewyouAsia’s five-day Gold Package (US$70,000) includes three nights at the resort and one on the superyacht, while the seven-day Platinum Package (US$98,000) includes five nights at the resort plus one on Demarest.

The resort has four swimming pools and three private beaches

Along with regenerative cell therapy – 50 million cells for Gold, 100 million cells for Platinum – both packages have a similar offering such as pre-and post-treatment consultations to establish and achieve the desired outcomes. Each programme includes proprietary protocol for cells activation, two local injections (5 million cells) plus a full blood test and biological age test before the primary treatment.

Both also feature two platelet-rich plasma therapies and two acupuncture sessions, while Platinum offers a slightly higher quantity of placenta injections, NAD+ IV, laser blood irradiation IV, Oxygen IV, Vitamin IV (as prescribed by doctor), facial and body spa treatments, and proprietary supplements.

Each of the three villas includes a lounge, dining area, terrace and garden

An Elite 100 Package features a slightly different offering that includes biological age tests both before treatment and three months afterwards – and a 50 per cent money-back guarantee if there’s no visible reverse-ageing established on the second test.

“We offer a money-back guarantee on your bio markers, so if you don’t improve, you get money back,” Johnson says. “We believe we’re the first clinic in the world to offer such a strong guarantee.”

LUXURY ABOUNDS

All packages feature limousine transfers to and from Phuket International Airport plus all meals and beverages, which are tailored to personal preferences and dietary restrictions. Each stay includes a full-time private butler, personal fitness training and yoga sessions, as well as spa and massage treatments.

Demarest has hosted John Legend and members of Thailand’s Royal Family since chartering in Phuket

Resort guests enjoy full access to the island’s three private beaches, four swimming pools, 43-seat cinema, gym, karaoke and games room, as well as water sports and toys like jet-skis, paddleboards, kayaks, wakeboards and Hobie Cats.

As if the resort packages weren’t alluring enough, RenewyouAsia’s inclusion of a stay on a superyacht makes it unique. Since Demarest arrived in Phuket, members of Thailand’s Royal Family and musician John Legend have been among those to enjoy the newly refitted charter yacht. Guests can enjoy alfresco dining on the aft deck and flybridge, where there’s also a jacuzzi and a sunbathing area, plus there are more sunpads on the foredeck.

The flybridge jacuzzi is one of the highlights of the 106ft Demarest

The mahogany-finished interior includes a large saloon and indoor dining area on the main deck, as well as five lower-deck guest cabins including a full-master suite with office. Toys include a jet-ski, Seabob, paddleboards and diving equipment, so guests can do as much or as little as they want.

For those interested in Demarest Clinic’s services and RenewyouAsia packages, Johnson suggests the best starting point is to book a video consultation through the website.

The superyacht has a huge saloon and dining area on the main deck

“Depending on what you’re looking for, we will then tap our diverse international board of doctors to see if there might be an expert already focused on your pathology. We also ask you to have blood work done before you come so we can start treating you upon arrival,” he says.

“With thorough medical tests and analysis, the doctors recommend the most efficient preventive medicine and treatment to significantly enhance your health condition. Our aim is safety, reliability, quality and unique solutions for every problem.”
www.demarestclinic.com
www.renewyouasia.com

Yacht Style Issue 63 Out Noww
The first issue of 2022 includes the updated 100-strong list of Asia’s Yachting Leaders, reviews of new models from Beneteau, Benetti, Sanlorenzo, Silent, Sunseeker and Wally, interviews with CL Yachts and YYachts, racing action from SailGP and Rolex Sydney Hobart, sales news across Asia and much, much more …

Bvlgari Serpenti Misteriosi: Tiny Mechanical Wonder

Lifestyle / yachtstyle2020

Bvlgari Serpenti Misteriosi: Tiny Mechanical Wonder

February 2, 2022
5:49 pm

Bvlgari reveals four new Serpenti references that hide a big horological secret.

By Ashok Soman

Image: Bvlgari

Watches and jewellery are both defined by how they wear, but wristwatches are constrained by functionality — unless the wristwatch in question is the Bvlgari Serpenti Misteriosi high jewellery secret watch. New for 2022, debuting a couple of days ago at the LVMH watch week, the Bvlgari Serpenti Misteriosi is a triumph of fine watchmaking and high jewellery, fulfilling functional duties on the wrist while also being a pleasure to behold and wear (we have not tried the Bvlgari novelties on, but the example of previous Serpenti watches elevate our expectations).

As you might have guessed, this time-only watch boasts an all-new sublime mechanical calibre — the manual-winding BVL100 — that only reveals its timekeeping functions on-demand. Pressing the tongue of the stylised snake causes it to open its jaws and reveal the time.

Image: Bvlgari

With its jaws closed, the Bvlgari Serpenti Misteriosi might be mistaken for a Serpenti bracelet; these are Bvlgari’s signature creations that make it appear that you are wearing a small snake made of jewels and gold on your wrist. For more on the motif and its history specific to Bvlgari, see our story on this here. There are four references this year, all high jewellery, in rose gold and white gold, and each one has a distinctive look and probably textures too; the best part about wearing a watch like this is feeling it.

First though, we must spare a few words for the BVL100 calibre (pictured below) because it takes us back to a time before quartz movements were perfected and miniaturised to such an extent that mechanical calibres were rendered extraneous. The problem is the size of the movement — the BVL100 is 12.3mm in diameter, which is smaller than some wristwatch balance wheels — which tends to limit accuracy and practicality (in terms of the power reserve).

BVL100 Calibre, Bvlgari — Image: Bvlgari

Contemporary engineering offers solutions to these problems, and what we have in BVL100 is a movement with an impressive 30 hours of power reserve and a balance wheel in white gold (more mass in the balance wheel improves the mechanism’s moment of inertia), which helps the escapement deliver a steady 21,600 vph. More mass here is relative because the entire movement (102 parts) weighs in at an effervescent 1.3g! Bvlgari is claiming no records here (this time) but BVL100 is significant and we look forward to learning more (and seeing it in more Bvlgari watches).

Given that the Bvlgari Serpenti Misteriosi is a secret watch, that limits where a crown can go — such a thing is a dead giveaway that what you have on your wrist is a watch. The solution here is a bi-directional dual-duty winding and setting mechanism on the caseback. From the images provided, this hidden crown looks to be sizable enough to set and wind the watch with ease. Bvlgari has not revealed much about the finish on the movement but it looks like gilt frosting, on some plates and bridges.

Moving on from the innards of the watch, the dimensions of watches such as the Serpenti Misteriosi are difficult to assign numbers to. For the record, all cases are 40mm and each one sports three coils (depending on how you count them, and called double tour by Bvlgari) so they will have quite a strong presence on the wrist — Serpenti watches are not shy, even if these models are being a little coy. Below are the specifications for each watch, as provided by Bvlgari and identified by model number.

Bvlgari Serpenti Misteriosi Ref. 103559 — Ref. 103559. Image: Bvlgari

Ref. 103559: 40 mm black-lacquered rose gold case, 2 pear-cut diamonds for the eyes (~0.3 ct), diamond-paved dial; black-lacquered rose gold double-tour bracelet.

Bvlgari Serpenti Misteriosi Ref. 103558 — Ref. 103560. Image: Bvlgari

Ref. 103560: 40 mm white gold case, green-lacquered and set with brilliant-cut diamonds, 2 pear-cut emeralds for the eyes (~0.4 ct), diamond-paved dial; green lacquered white gold double-tour bracelet set with brilliant-cut diamonds. Total 369 diamonds (~8.35 cts).

Ref. 103558, Bvlgari Serpenti Misteriosi — Ref. 103558. Image: Bvlgari

Ref. 103558: 40 mm rose gold case set with brilliant-cut diamonds and turquoise inserts, 2 pear-cut rubellites for the eyes (~0.4 ct), diamond-paved dial; double-tour rose gold bracelet set with diamonds and turquoise inserts. Total 724 diamonds (~18.05 cts).

Bvlgari Serpenti Misteriosi Ref. 103561 — Image: Bvlgari

Ref. 103561: 40 mm white gold case and head set with 626 round brilliant-cut diamonds (~15.83 cts), 2 pear-cut emeralds for the eyes (~0.4 ct), diamond-paved dial; yellow gold double-tour bracelet set with round brilliant-cut diamonds, white gold tail set with round brilliant-cut diamonds. Total 795 diamonds (~16.59 cts).

The New Range Rover: Much More Than a Luxury SUV

Lifestyle / yachtstyle2020

The New Range Rover: Much More Than a Luxury SUV

January 27, 2022
5:27 pm

Presenting the fifth-generation Range Rover, an ode to the original and a nod to the future.

By Terence Ruis

range rover, fifth generation — Image: Jaguar Land Rover

The Range Rover has been around for over 5 decades. In fact, we’re told the very first prototype for the iconic SUV began on 6 September 1967, or just over 54 years ago today. The transformation has been extraordinary, and the fact that the vehicle is still a hallmark of industrial design — it was the first to ever be displayed at the Louvre in Paris — is testament to Land Rover’s dedication to its product and drivers.

The Range Rover was officially launched in 1970 as a 2-door 4WD vehicle with a lightweight V8 engine and all-round disk brakes. Just as reference, most vehicles at the time only featured drum brakes, or disk brakes just on the front tires. Since its launch, the Range Rover has been lauded many times over, and seen numerous iterations over the decades.

Some of its achievements include becoming the first vehicle to cross the length of the Americas, the world’s first 4×4 to be fitted with ABS anti-lock brakes as well as electronic traction control (ETC) and height adjustable electronic air suspension, to name a few. It has also broken numerous speed records over the years, and won several rallies including the inaugural Paris-Dakar rally. The list goes on, but you can see why the Range Rover is still thriving today.

While the Range Rover was not launched as a luxury vehicle, it has achieved that status over time. For those unaware the first-ever limited-edition Range Rover was launched in 1981, called the “In Vogue”. Released the same year as the first production four-door model, In Vogue marked the vehicle’s evolution into a luxury vehicle.

Four decades later, the new fifth-generation Range Rover carries on that mantle — with panache, we might add. On our recent trip to Seoul, we got up close and personal with the new vehicle which boasts a truckload of upgrades, many of which elevates its status as a luxury SUV.

However, we must mention that it’s been launched alongside the Range Rover SV, which is Land Rover’s response to customer requests for luxury and personalisation. If that’s not enough, a fully-electric Range Rover will also be joining the lineup in 2024 — but more on that later.

For now though, here’s a rundown on the most important highlights of the new fifth-generation Range Rover. Hopefully these will shed some light on the new release, and help you decide whether it’s time to update or add to your garage.

Range Rover 5th generation, interior — Image: Jaguar Land Rover

It’s the most luxurious Range Rover yet

Like we mentioned earlier, the new fifth-generation Range Rover is the most luxurious to roll out from Land Rover’s factories yet. Right off the bat, the manufacturer provides drivers with the choice of Standard or Long Wheelbase designs, with four-, five- or seven-seat configurations. If you enjoy extra legroom, the Long Wheelbase is certainly a worthy upgrade.

A marker for excellent luxury automotive design is body architecture, and here’s where the new Range Rover excels with its Flexible Modular Longitudinal Architecture (MLA-Flex) platform. Highlights of this brand new design are improved aerodynamics, a fully independent suspension system, and excellent noise isolation. All of these features combine to provide a smooth and luxurious ride, whether you’re rolling up to the country club or heading on a road trip.

Ranger Rover, 5th generation, display panel — Image: Jaguar Land Rover

Technology is at forefront of its design

It’ll come as no surprise to you that the fifth-generation Range Rover is chock full of thoughtful, useful and downright intriguing tech. Key to all of this is Land Rover’s latest Electrical Vehicle Architecture (EVA 2.0). With this feature, Software-Over-The-Air (SOTA) updates will ensure that drivers receive all necessary upgrades on the go. It’ll also enable the EVA 2.0 to improve as it matures.

The new Range Rover also features Land Rover’s award-winning Pivi Pro infotainment technology, however, it takes things to a whole new level with its largest ever touchscreen. Its 13.1-inch curved, floating screen sets the tone for the vehicle’s design: intuitive, sleek, and modern. Operating the system does not feel too different from using a smartphone, something we suspect Land Rover’s engineers were gunning for.

Another key highlight is the all-new Amazon Alexa integration, which takes even more cognitive load off drivers. Instead of fiddling with the screen, drivers can simply make requests of Alexa. Feeling like a coffee? Alexa has recommendations. Want to put your favourite music on? Alexa’s on it. Need to call someone? You get the idea.

Range Rover, 5th generation — Image: Jaguar Land Rover

It offers an exceptional driver experience

Range Rovers are built to put smiles on drivers’ faces, and this one is no different. The MLA-Flex is the perfect foundation for chassis systems to provide the ultimate combination of ride quality as well as agility for the terrain. A major highlight in this area is the All-Wheel steering system, which features on all New Range Rovers.

Built to excel at both high and low speeds, this system is equally at home on the expressways as it is on winding back roads. This system is also designed to provide the new Range Rover with an excellent turning radius of less than 11m — equivalent to a small hatchback.

A new upgrade on the New Range Rover is the Dynamic Response Pro, a feature that most drivers will deem a bit of an overkill for Singapore’s generally flat roads, but is very nice to have nonetheless. Designed to be more efficient than hydraulic systems, this advanced 48-volt electronic active roll control system is key to the Range Rover’s ‘all-conquering’ capability.

The Range Rover SV is the embodiment of luxury

In the spirit of taking things to the next level, Land Rover has launched the Range Rover SV alongside the New Range Rover. So, what is it exactly? In a nutshell, it’s a handcrafted model created by Special Vehicle Operations, with a smorgasbord of options and choices for drivers.

It starts with design themes — SV Serenity or SV Intrepid — which introduce two-tone colourways to the Range Rover. It then spills over to material choices, which include plated metals, smooth ceramics, mosaic marquetry, luxurious leather or non-leather fabrics, and so much more.

Luxury and craftsmanship have been given the spotlight for the SV, so it’s no wonder that it looks like it belongs in a class of its own. Apart from its numerous luxurious appointments, the SV can be identified by its white ceramic SV roundel, black background Land Rover oval, exclusive bumper, and five-bar grille.

Chanel Red Edition Collection: Uncompromising Elegance

Lifestyle / yachtstyle2020

Chanel Red Edition Collection: Uncompromising Elegance

January 20, 2022
3:01 pm

Chanel delivers a new J12 X-Ray Red Edition Rouge, and two Boy.Friend watches, all united by a bold colour and exceptional clarity.

By Ashok Soman

Image: Chanel

Red may well be the next colour to take the world of watchmaking by storm, and Chanel has gotten a bit of a head start with the Red Edition Collection, comprising two Boy.Friend watches and a new iteration of one of our favourite watches, the J12 X-Ray. We have written previously quite extensively on the J12 X-Ray, noting the watchmaking links between the Calibre 3.1 that powers it and the Calibre 3 hard at work in the Boy.Friend. Presented together in a single serving, as the Red Edition Collection is, one can clearly see what we meant. Yes, the pun is intended.

While it is tempting to cast the Chanel Red Edition collection as a Chinese New Year offering, the timing must be purely coincidental. You may recall that Chanel went all-in on big colours last year with the J12 Electro Rainbow, although that was purely about the J12. In any case, red is an important colour for Chanel, when used as an accent. Chanel reminds of this with the following quote attributed to Gabriel Chanel: “If you’re sad or heartbroken, make yourself up, dress up, add more lipstick and attack.”

Chanel The Boy.Friend Skeleton Red Edition

Image: Chanel

In the J12 X-Ray Red Edition Rouge, the absolute clarity of the sapphire crystal case and bracelet gets dressed up by 46 baguette-cut rubies set on the 18k white gold bezel. There are also 12 baguette-cut rubies set on the sapphire dial, and 34 baguette-cut rubies on two of the sapphire crystal bracelet links. A diamond set into the crown completes this brilliant picture.

The two Boy.Friend watches add a touch of red to the movement, which Chanel has not provided information on but we assume is some sort of coating. The Boy.Friend Skeleton X-Ray Red Edition follows in the transparent style of the J12 X-Ray Red Edition Rouge, with sapphire crystal case and bezel; the strap is red calfskin with alligator patterns. The crown is executed in the manufacture’s proprietary 18k beige gold (beige being another one of Chanel’s signatures), and so is the triple-folding clasp.

The Boy.Friend Skeleton Red Edition brings more 18k beige gold to the party, with case, bezel, crown and folding clasp in the precious material. The strap is in the same material as the other Boy.Friend watch. The crown in both Boy.Friend watches feature five baguette-cut rubies, marking the final splashes of red in the collection.

Arnaud Chastaingt, Director of the Chanel Watchmaking Creation Studio, explained the use of red as follows: “As a stylistic device, I have used it (red) on three Haute Horlogerie creations. I like the boldness of a movement made up in red, the sensuality of the marriage of beige gold and rubies, the authority of a glossy red strap against a wrist. There is nothing faint-hearted about red! It has an uncompromising elegance.“

Also uncompromising here is the scarcity, with everything strictly limited. The J12 X-Ray Red Edition Rouge is numbered and limited to 12 pieces. The Boy.Friend Skeleton Red Edition is limited to 55 pieces, and the Boy.Friend Skeleton X-Ray Red Edition is limited to 100 pieces.

Rolls-Royce Achieves Stellar 2021 Results, Beating Its Own Record

Lifestyle / yachtstyle2020

Rolls-Royce Achieves Stellar 2021 Results, Beating Its Own Record

January 13, 2022
4:18 pm

A total of 5,586 Rolls-Royce cars were delivered and its annual sales results is the highest-ever in its 117-year history.

By Joseph Low

Image: Rolls-Royce

2021 has proven to be a spectacular year for Rolls-Royce as the company has delivered the highest-ever annual sales results in its 117-year history. A total of 5,586 motor cars were delivered to clients around the world — this figure represented a 49 per cent increase on the same period in 2020.

The record-breaking sales is the result of high demands across the different markets including Greater China, the Americas and Asia-Pacific. According to the Financial Times: “Growth was led by China and the Americas, which each accounted for about 30 per cent of sales, Europe 20 per cent and the Middle East 10 per cent.”

The marque’s profile of cars all achieved exceptional results. The growth in 2021 was primarily driven by the Ghost and the demand grew even strong following the launch of the Black Badge Ghost — a darker and more powerful alter-ego of the Ghost. Not to mention, the Cullinan remains to be a favourite amongst many devotees of the brand as well as the Phantom. Together, all the different models “ensured order books are full well into the third quarter of 2022.”

Rolls-Royce Black Badge Ghost — The Black Badge Ghost. Image: Rolls-Royce

With such formidable sales results, Rolls-Royce has cemented itself as the king of luxury cars — in the +€250k segment. At the heart of any luxury brand is the creation of bespoke, one-of-a-kind products. To cater to this segment, the Goodwood-based car manufacture has introduced the Rolls-Royce Coachbuild, a collaboration between its patron and artisan. The Boat Tail launched in May last year exemplifies this new commitment.

Other magnificent examples of the marque’s bespoke commissions include the Phantom Oribe co-created with Hermès, Phantom Tempus, Black Badge Wraith and Black Badge Dawn Landspeed Collection cars.

2021 was also a year that saw many car brands pursuing electrification with their fleet of vehicles. At Rolls-Royce, the company has announced its first all-electric car Spectre, which will be launched in the fourth quarter of 2023. The company is also planning to go fully electric by 2030, phasing out combustion engines altogether.

Moving forward, the company is planning to invest in its manufacturing capabilities for the future and also in new talents. This is so that the craftsmanship is not lost but is continuedly improved on to meet the needs of what is to come.

Reflecting on the results, CEO Torsten Müller-Ötvös said, “This has been a truly historic year for Rolls-Royce Motor Cars. In the past 12 months, we have recorded our highest-ever annual sales, launched the latest addition to our Black Badge family, stunned the world with our coachbuilding capabilities and made huge strides into our all-electric future.”

“As always, it has been made possible by the dedication and commitment of the extraordinary people at the Home of Rolls-Royce, our international team and our global dealer network. I wish to extend my thanks and congratulations to each and every one of them: it is my privilege and pleasure to work alongside them every day.”

Patek Philippe 5750 Advanced Research: Reinventing the Minute Repeater

Lifestyle / yachtstyle2020

Patek Philippe 5750 Advanced Research: Reinventing the Minute Repeater

January 6, 2022
2:52 pm

Patek Philippe continues its quest to create the world’s best chiming watches with Ref. 5750 Advanced Research

By Ashok Soman

patek philippe ref 5750 advanced research

When Patek Philippe announced a new advanced research project this year, the brand did not say it was for the new Ref. 5750 Advanced Research minute repeater. The world learned of this new mechanical timekeeping musical instrument at roughly the same time, a feat enabled by digital technology.

As usual, Patek Philippe put a lot of effort into the big reveal, showing a level of digital savoir-faire beaten only by its own watchmaking acumen. According to Patek Philippe President Thierry Stern, the Ref. 5750 Advanced Research minute repeater is both louder and has better harmonics, and it performs best on the wrist. This is all thanks to the new fortissimo ff module, which we will probably come to grips with in print.

By way of introduction, the manufacture followed up on its digital presentation with some specifics in the press information, including the following nuggets: Ref. 5750 Advanced Research is six times louder than plain vanilla repeaters; it does not sacrifice the Patek Philippe chiming watch’s vaunted sound quality and “long resonant fade out,” to achieve its decibel levels. Of course, we cannot report on anything further until we hear the watch, and hear back from the manufacture on our questions about the latest Advanced Research chapter.

Still, Patek Philippe can be relied upon to be fastidious, and the Genevan brand always protects the particular quality of its chiming watches. For proof, you need only consider the fact that all Patek Philippe repeaters and sonneries are not water-resistant – technology in watchmaking clearly allows for some degree of water-resistance here, but Patek Philippe eschews this in favour of harmonics that it likes. There is an old school charm to this approach, especially when one considers that Stern listens to every single repeater before it leaves the manufacture. To us, the personal touch of Stern matters more than any digital QC.

Patek Philippe knows this quite well, we think, but it also wants to remind us (as if it needed to) that it puts all its technical muscle into its chiming watches. Stern says that Ref. 5750 Advanced Research is maybe 50% there when it comes to what he wants in terms of loudness, but he is willing to take it one step at a time. This brings us to the whole Advanced Research project at Patek Philippe, which has been known to the world since 2005 when it debuted the Silinvar escape wheel.

patek philippe ref 5750 advance research

Image: Patek Philippe

Prior to Ref. 5750 Advanced Research, the project focussed on improving chronometric performance – the 2017 development of a new mechanism to correct time zones in multi-time zone watches was an exception. It is worth remembering that Advanced Research projects at Patek Philippe are not just showy exercises. The Spiromax balance spring developed by the Advanced Research project is found today in many Patek Philippe movements, and so is the most advanced version of this balance spring, now called the Optimised Spiromax. Still, Ref. 5750 represents the first time Patek Philippe has brought the rigorous science of the Advanced Research department to the realm of musical time. Some may consider this risky, and it is, but we think it is high time.

patek philippe advanced reseach ref 5750 — **Image: Patek Philippe**

To get into the nuts and bolts of this a little — we do not intend to dissect Ref. 5750 here — the watch is a very distinctive and highly limited proposition. Only 15 models will be made, making it the rarest of all the Advanced Research watches.

You might think that this is why platinum is in the picture here but this is not so. According to the manufacture, platinum was selected as the case material to provide the watchmakers with an additional challenge – this material is widely considered the least suitable when it comes to generating a bigger sound. Not strictly in line with the scientific method, perhaps, but we applaud the chutzpah.

Quirkiness aside, Patek Philippe has applied for four patents in relation to the development of Ref. 5750 Advanced Research and calibre R 27 PS. These are as follows:

Loudspeaker with freely oscillating wafer and sound amplification mechanism. These are two separate patents for components comprising sound amplification devices. There are also two patents related to the hammers and gongs of the repeater mechanism. The platinum hammers have one patent and so do the helical gongs, here with coplanar attachment; yes, platinum was chosen over steel here for the particular properties a hammer of that material would have.

That attachment might be the first thing that caught your attention when you looked at the caseback. In fact, you are not just looking through the exhibition caseback but also a wafer of synthetic sapphire with a thickness of just 0.2mm. This neatly showcases the secrets of calibre R 27 PS in becoming the amplifier for the chiming action of the hammers and gongs, functioning quite apart from the case and sapphire crystal itself. This is why sound propagation in Ref. 5750 Advanced Research does not depend on the case material.

patek philippe advanced researchresearch ref 5750

Image: Patek Philippe

Other important details here include the relative slimness of the 40mm watch, at just 11.1mm thick. Patek Philippe has repeatedly stated its preference for slimness, and the watchmakers have done everything they could have to offset the additional space the fortissimo ff module required.

The dial design is also significant here, with Patek Philippe exploring a new aesthetic touch that is mirrored by the decoration on the platinum micro-rotor. Stern says that this would not normally happen at Patek Philippe but Ref. 5750 Advanced Research is such a limited proposition that he did not mind the experiment. As for that small seconds counter, a watch at this level is not about the passing of seconds, as we have written before.

The look of the watch might actually work better without it, although the mechanical action is attractive. We think that this is a detail that collectors will enjoy disagreeing about.

Inside the Mind of Mojoko

January 6, 2022
2:52 pm

Iran-born Steve Lawler was raised in Hong Kong, educated in Europe and has lived in Singapore since 2003. As Mojoko, he mixes Asian and Western influences with B-movie sensibility to produce art that pops and dazzles the eyes. Interview by Julia Roxan.

Wiping out an estimated 100.8 million travel and tourism-related jobs worldwide, the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic has effectively brought the industry to an abrupt standstill, currently accounting for a mere 10% of global GDP. Hitting the Asian Pacific region the hardest with an approximate 63.4 million jobs lost, many cling to fleeting hopes of a potential vaccine capable of diminishing this fatal disease. However, while the outbreak may inevitably end, innumerable reports have suggested the tourism industry may take up to 10 months, or longer depending on each individual nation’s restrictive measures, to recover from the heaviest economic blow yet.

New Normal Experiential Luxury Travel

Chambre Séparées

Beyond disrupting the international flow of medical supplies and other essential needs, the disastrous pandemic may change the way civilians work, live, and play, long after the dust settles. Whether it’s short getaways reachable by car and on foot, or opting for an increasingly isolated accommodation, much of our newly acquired social distancing habits are here for the long-haul.

The Hialeah Park Casino

With everything from restaurants, cinemas, casinos and the Las Vegas Strip shuttered up for lockdown, businesses aren’t left with any other choice but to adapt their operations, facilities and marketing strategies to a demographic of highly unnerved and health-conscious consumers.

Adele Is Buying Sylvester Stallone’s Beverly Hills Mansion

Lifestyle / yachtstyle2020

Adele Is Buying Sylvester Stallone’s Beverly Hills Mansion

January 6, 2022
2:34 pm

Initially listed at US$110 million, Sylvester Stallone’s mansion has been snatched up by Adele.

By Sarah Ridzwan

Adele is reportedly buying Sylvester Stallone’s Beverly Hills mansion for US$58 million. The property is situated in the gated enclave of North Beverly Park and boasts eight bedrooms and 12 bathrooms, sitting on 3.5 acres of land.

According to Architectural Digest, Stallone had purchased the house in the ’90s and originally listed the home for US$110 million — unfortunately, there were no buyers. He then dropped the price down further to US$85 million and then to US$80 million in October.

sylvester stallone mansion — **Image: Westside Estate Agency**

The property was designed by architect Edward Granzbach and built in 1994. The entire mansion is 21,000 square feet but listing agent Jade Mills says it’s not too big: “Even though the square footage is very large, it’s a pretty traditional floor plan. It’s a really easy house to live in”. The home serves as a sanctuary from the hustle and bustle of Hollywood, situated at the end of a cul-de-sac. The property is also well secured with a gate fencing the house and its vicinity.

sylvester stallone beverly hills mansion — Image: Westside Estate Agency

The main house features six bedrooms and nine bathrooms including a master suite, three spacious en-suite bedrooms, and two maids bedrooms. The opulent master suite includes a sauna, steam room, and office with a terrace.

adele sylvester stallone living room — **Image: Westside Estate Agency**

There’s also a two-storey guest house that comes with two en-suite bathrooms and a full chef’s kitchen. The main building includes a formal living room with views of Rodeo Drive. Other features include a professional movie theatre, cigar room with air filtration system, and a gym.

adele mansion — **Image: Westside Estate Agency**

Outside the home, on the massive patio, is an infinity pool, spa, and even a putting green. Car enthusiasts will be pleased with the home’s air-conditioned eight-car garage, which also has an art studio.

sylvester stallone mansion infinity pool — **Image: Westside Estate Agency**

The gated community is home to plenty of Hollywood elites such as Denzel Washington and Eddie Murphy.

This is the English pop star’s fourth property in the area with the first three houses located just within the area known to house other celebrities like Katy Perry, Penelope Cruz, Ashton Kutcher and many more. Adele’s portfolio of real estate properties has a combined worth of over US$30 million (excluding the newly purchased estate from Stallone). Despite her resounding success and growing net worth, the singer still finds properties in London too expensive.

Another home for sale that has made recent headlines is the French chateau in Calabasas, just down the street from a Kourtney Kardashian property. The 16,500 square-foot estate is listed at an asking price of US$32 million and offers seven bedrooms and ten baths.

The massive Bel-Air mansion known as “The One” will also be up for auction next month with a price tag of US$295 million — which could make it the most expensive house ever sold in the US. The gigantic home was originally expected to list for around US$500 million, but was embroiled in legal troubles.

The McLaren F1 Is The Most Expensive Car Sold at Auction

Lifestyle / yachtstyle2020

The McLaren F1 Is The Most Expensive Car Sold at Auction

January 6, 2022
2:28 pm

This elusive McLaren F1 was sold for US$20.5 million, making it the priciest car sold in 2021.

By Sarah Ridzwan

The McLaren F1 has become the most expensive car sold at auction in 2021.

The F1 — one of the most prized collector cars for its rarity and place in auto history — became the most expensive car auctioned last year, when it was sold for US$20.5 million at Pebble Beach. It also became the most expensive McLaren F1 ever sold.

The McLaren F1 is the creation of Gordon Murray, who has been regarded as one of the greatest automotive engineers of all time. One of the reasons why the F1 is highly desired is its engine: a 6.1-litre naturally-aspirated V12 engine developed and built by BMW.

Developing the BMW V12 is a story of its own. Murray did not have enough budget to develop his own engine for the F1, so he sought out some of the best engine builders in the world to do it instead. Murray had a list of requirements for the engine and wasn’t willing to compromise on any of them. He initially went to Honda, but was rejected. He then turned to Paul Rosche at BMW M, who is a personal friend of his, who ended up taking on the challenge.

The requirements were that the engine needed to be a V12, naturally aspirated, with at least 100 horsepower per litre, and high revs. The BMW M team managed to tick all of Murray’s boxes, and the free-breathing V12 they created has been lauded as a masterpiece and one of the best engines of all time.

The F1 is considered by many to be the first hypercar and with just 106 built between 1992 and 1998, it’s among the most prized vehicles in the world today. This F1 featured here is finished in a Creighton Brown paint job, which is offset by elegant light brown and tan interior. Unsurprisingly, the car has been used sparingly, with just 243 miles registered on its V12 engine.

In other hypercar news, the Petersen Automotive Museum in Los Angeles is currently hosting a two-part exhibit titled, “Hypercars: The Allure of the Extreme”. The first part of the exhibit is running until September 22 featuring a Bugatti Veyron 16.4, and McLaren Speedtail. The second part will run from September 17, 2022 to May 14, 2023.

The Pricey Attraction of Waterfront Properties

Lifestyle / yachtstyle2020

The Pricey Attraction of Waterfront Properties

December 20, 2021
3:47 pm

An opinion piece about the price of waterfront homes in Singapore and across our shores.

By Alexander K Shlaen

As far as I am concerned, there is nothing more attractive for a property than a waterfront view. Be it an ocean, lake, or a river, I can watch for hours the water glimmering under the sun especially during sunset moments. The most spectacular views are when you witness the sun sinking into the body of water where the horizon meets. This is what I call — the best show that nature has to offer, daily!

Surprisingly, many Asian coastal and island nations, even smaller island nations, had their original settlers turning their backs on the sea.

Homes in Sentosa Cove afford waterfront living. Image: UnTourist SG

In Singapore media, I saw some articles with headings such as: “Why are Sentosa Cove properties making a comeback?” One would expect the titles to be more like: “Why are these properties the most expensive in Singapore?”

I am amused by such articles. From my logic, and from what we know of the prices in the most prestigious locations in the world, the priciest properties tend to have waterfront views. Whether it is in Hong Kong with the fabulous views of the harbour, or a palace belonging to the princely family of Monaco with the views of the Mediterranean Sea, these are fine examples of how a waterbody adds lustre to a property.

The lure of the Little Red Dot

Singapore, a small tropical island nation surprisingly has its most expensive properties inland. These are villas or as they are called here — Good Class Bungalows, or GCBs.

All these GCBs are located inland and have minimal to no view due to the local topography of relatively flat land. Naturally one of the reasons is the tenures of the land, which are usually freehold, while all the properties in Sentosa Cove are built on 99-year leasehold land. Overall, the leaseholds can be extended, but of course, there are no guarantees what it will become in a hundred years from now.

Without a doubt, waterfront properties across the world boasting sea views have eye-watering prices, thus these only lure the very rich to their shores.

To entertain you, a villa that belonged to the late Pierre Cardin was listed for US$420 million, though was not yet sold. This huge property in the south of France with views of the Mediterranean is a work of art, but not for everyone’s taste, I must say. It has round bubble-like forms, which ties into Cardin’s own futuristic style of ’60s fashion design.

Pierre Cardin Bubble house. Image: Home Designing Ideas.

Sometime before the Covid-19 epidemic, what I call the “previous life” or pre-Covid time, the valuation of a waterside street made up of just 13 houses in the south of England hit the most expensive stretch of coastal real estate in the world. The combined property value was a staggering US$128 million.

Rich man’s playground

Sandbanks in Dorset is known for attracting the rich and famous, thanks to its secluded location and harbour views. Now, Panorama Road’s total price-per-square-foot has exceeded that of waterside streets in Miami and Monte Carlo, according to Country Living publication. Each of the 13 houses that lines “Millionaire’s Row” has uninterrupted views of Poole Harbour and the south coast. The cheapest property there is worth over US$7 million, while the most expensive will set you back almost double that.

Sandbanks in Dorset – Millionaires Row. Image: Country Living magazine.

Mansions there sit on narrow plots measuring just 40- to 60-foot wide, while the street itself is only 850-foot long, just under 260 metres. Sandbanks estate agents Tailor Made say this means property there is at a premium, with houses commanding a very high price per square foot.

Closer to our shores and again in the pre-Covid era, a house on Sentosa was on the market with the following highlight: Biggest Sea-facing Bungalow On Sentosa For Sale. This very rare modern sea-facing, harbour-view bungalow at Sentosa enjoys one of the most stunning, breath-taking panoramic vistas of the shimmering waters.

The Lion City’s development of the Sentosa Cove pushed the envelope and placed basically all its properties in front of the water. And the real big change is in the making. The huge seaport that is occupying the big chunk of the southern part of the island is relocating, freeing the central part of the island to build what can be, and likely will be, the most beautiful seaside promenade in the region. It will make a nice continuation all the way from the Marina Reservoir and adjacent golf fields and The Gardens By The Bay in the east, connecting all the way to Sentosa island in the west. There will be plenty of space to erect properties that will be facing the southern seaside. I predict that these will be the most prime properties in the region.

Hong Kong, Tokyo or Superyacht?

It’s clear that the attraction of waterfront properties is very prominent in the West and Asia is now catching up. Only Hong Kong, due to its fabulous geographic location, has the best exposure to the sea views. For a country that knows how to appreciate water views, everybody in Hong Kong knows that the higher up the peak you go, the more sea views you enjoy, and of course the property prices escalate.

Image: Lürssen

In post-Olympics Tokyo, there was massive construction of the residential properties around the photogenic Tokyo Bay. I believe the move towards this area will rise and Tokyo will have many more properties facing its Tokyo Bay than ever before.

While on the subject of waterfront properties, I can’t resist mentioning superyachts. One such fancy property floating on the seas is The Flying Fox. It is 450-foot-long (just over 137 metres), a 67-foot-wide craft built by Lürssen in Germany and happens to be the longest yacht available for charter. It costs roughly US$4 million per week to charter. If you would like to own it, the estimated cost of this beauty is around US$400 million. Its length is just about half of the aforementioned most expensive street in Dorset, south England, but the price of the superyacht dwarfs the combined US$128 million value that the Dorset properties hold. This makes that street a smashing bargain compared to this pricey yacht! Well, it is up to you, my dear readers, to decide which would be your preferable waterfront property or asset.

Image: Alex Shlaen

Alexander Karolik Shlaen, Executive MBA, is the founder of the Singapore-based Panache Management Pte Ltd which represents Aston Martin Interiors, Tonino Lamborghini Casa and Formitalia design lines in Asia. Panache Management is involved in real estate and technology investment projects and provides luxury interiors and designs for exclusive real estate, private jets and superyachts. Shlaen has appeared in various regional and global media and has written the Luxury Expert columns of regional business magazines since 2009. He was also the chairman of the judges’ panel for Asia Property Awards and is frequently sought to attend established business forums. Learn more on PanacheManage.com

Bvlgari Hotels Just Launched A New Location In Paris

Lifestyle / yachtstyle2020

Bvlgari Hotels Just Launched A New Location In Paris

December 16, 2021
5:16 pm

Bvlgari Hotels & Resorts is adding Paris to its list of luxury locations around the globe.

By Sarah Ridzwan

The new Bvlgari Hotel Paris officially opened on December 2 and is located on Avenue George V. It is the latest addition to Bvlgari Hotel’s collection of hotels and resorts around the world.

Bvlgari spent six years transforming a 10-storey corporate office into the luxurious and lavish hotel that it is right now. The structure is strikingly modern — designed by Italian architecture studio Antonio Citterio Patricia Viel — and features 76 accommodations in total, 57 of which are suites and each with its own terrace or loggia.

At the top of the building is the Bvlgari Penthouse which costs €35,000 per night. The penthouse spans two floors and totals 10,764 square feet and includes a hanging garden and 360-degree views of the City of Lights. The dining room can seat up to 10 people, and the penthouse has a stand-out spiral staircase where you’ll find the garden.

Other than the penthouse the hotel offers four Bvlgari Suites and four Executive Terrace Suites, which are the second and third largest types of rooms in the hotel.

bvlgari hotels paris penthouse master bedroom — Image: Bvlgari Hotels

The larger suites have a dedicated dining area and minibar disguised in the form of a travel trunk. Even more interestingly, some suite bathrooms have their own private steam bath, or hammam, and all suite guests have access to a dedicated butler.

On the lower floors of the hotel, which was previously a parking garage, is the Bvlgari Spa which spans 13,990 square feet. It houses nine treatment rooms, an 80-foot swimming pool, sauna, hair salon and a London’s Workshop gym.

At the back end of the property is a 26-seater restaurant, Il Ristorante – Niko Romito, led by three-Michelin-starred chef Niko Romito. It also has an eight-seat private dining room. The restaurant serves Italian classics and other bistro mainstays such as French onion soup. Next to the restaurant and facing the hotel garden, is the Bvlgari Bar and the lounge.

The hotel combines French and Italian culture and craftsmanship, with the furniture from Italy and most of the stonework and millwork from France. Most of the bathrooms also feature a glass art depiction of the Bvlgari serpent in the style of Rene Lalique.

The concierge offers an array of services that bring you out of the hotel if you’re feeling adventurous, such as a guided tour of the Rodin Museum or private shopping at Le Bon Marche, and even a private showing at the Bvlgari boutique on the Place Vendome.

The Bvlgari Hotel Paris suites offer an in-room iPad control system, which you can use to turn off the lights or order room service, and even has a menu of chauffeured vehicles with everything from a family-sized van to a motorcycle if you fancy yourself a Parisian local.

Rates start at €1,400 a night for the classic rooms to the aforementioned €35,000-a-night penthouse suite.

Two other iconic properties include the House of Gucci’s Villa Balbiano at Lake Como, which you can book for one night only with Airbnb. However, if having a whole house to yourself isn’t your cup of tea, perhaps the Savoy Gucci Suite might be more your speed. The royal suite has been given a touch of Gucci, very apt for the hotel of the origins of the label.

For more luxury hotel reads, click here

Indulge in the Spirit of Christmas with Martell’s Cognacs

Lifestyle / yachtstyle2020

Indulge in the Spirit of Christmas with Martell’s Cognacs

December 16, 2021
5:11 pm

The festive season calls for a much-deserved celebration and recuperation after an eventful year. And what better way to do so than with three luxury cognacs by Martell?

By Melissa Mae

With the end of the year fast approaching, it’s time to relax and leave all the negativity behind to start 2022 afresh. So why not ring in the joyous occasion with the help of a good drink?

Whether you’re in the mood of gifting a loved one some quality spirits or looking to indulge in some of your own this Christmas, look no further as Martell has come in clutch with their holy trinity of cognacs. This December, you can expect only the best from the esteemed House; this includes Martell’s Cordon Bleu Limited Edition bottle, Martell Chanteloup XXO, and L’Or de Jean Martell, all perfect statement pieces to liven up the festivities this year.

Martell Cordon Bleu Limited Edition Bottle

Best served neat, this exclusive bottle of Martell Cordon Bleu will make an exemplary gift for your closest friends and family members. Not only does its exquisite design and aromatic roasted scent stand out amongst other cognacs, but its flavourful palate is also sure to impress with the explosion of spicy rich liquor on your tongue, thanks to a special blend of sweet spices, gingerbread, and roasted cocoa beans. A legendary cognac “endowed with beautiful complexity and rich aromas,” as Christophe Valtaud, Martell’s Cellar Master, would call it.

The Martell Cordon Bleu is available for purchase here.

Martell Chanteloup XXO

If you’re looking for something smoother to gift an alcohol aficionado this Christmas, you can consider the Martell Chanteloup XXO. Named after the historic Château de Chanteloup near Cognac, this spirit represents the very heart of the House of Martell with its signature savoir-faire and heritage of eaux-de-vie, cycled through nine generations. Embodied by an intriguingly-beautiful looking bottle, this cognac gives off a fragrant aroma constituting a blend of honey, vine peach, and apricot, with nuts – fig, almonds and walnuts. Resultantly, leaving its overarching flavour a full fruitiness that leads to a long finish for drinkers to indulge in.

To purchase, drop an enquiry at hello@le-cercle.sg.

L’Or de Jean Martell

Lastly, we have the L’Or de Jean Martell, or as we like to call it, Christmas morning in a bottle. Infused with more than 400 rare eaux de vies and encapsulated by a jewel bottle specially crafted by the Manufacture de Cristal de Sèvres, this spirit is the quintessence of Martell’s cognacs – a smooth and gradually piquant flavour palate emboldened by fresh citrus, fruit, gingerbread and precious wood to give it a long-drawn finish. “With the body of the Borderies and the structure of Grande Champagne, L’Or offers a perfect balance between rich aromas and power,” says Valtaud. “It is a model of harmony and the perfect expression of this cognac house’s philosophy.”

To purchase, drop an enquiry at hello@le-cercle.sg.

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