As the first of its kind, the three-day Lantau Yacht Club Boat Show held over the first weekend of November has been the talk of the town, especially among luxury charters invested and interested in the finest boats that sail the seven seas.



Under the theme “Festa Nautica,” the showcase presented 14 of the most prestigious brands from around the globe as a veritable smorgasbord of designer decks were parked at the quintessential yacht club of the city. At the opening ceremony, a phalanx of industry leaders arrived to officiate the grand occasion, among them Ivan Lee, executive vice president of operations at HKR International Limited; David Lee, director of Hong Kong property at CITIC Pacific Limited; and Franklin Mak, senior vice president of hospitality operations at HKR International Limited.&nbsp;



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="683" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/LYC-Boat-Show_Opening-Ceremony-1024x683.jpeg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234781280" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/LYC-Boat-Show_Opening-Ceremony-1024x683.jpeg 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/LYC-Boat-Show_Opening-Ceremony-300x200.jpeg 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/LYC-Boat-Show_Opening-Ceremony-768x512.jpeg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/LYC-Boat-Show_Opening-Ceremony-1536x1024.jpeg 1536w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/LYC-Boat-Show_Opening-Ceremony-2048x1365.jpeg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>



Representatives from Princess Yachts, Nextwave Yachting, and Simpson Marine also made their presence felt as honoured guests looped a rope around the ceremonial mooring bollards, symbolising the beginning of the yachting extravaganza.



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At every deck, dock, and turn, one after the other, Festa Nautica 2023 offered a curated selection of high-end, elegant vessels represented by seven of the top dealers in the industry: Absolute Marine Limited, Asia Boating Limited, Asia Yachting, Marine Italia Limited, Princess Yachts, Nextwave Yachting, and Simpson Marine. The exceptional yachts were all painstakingly crafted by 14 of the most prestigious brands from around the globe: AB Jet, Absolute, Azimut, Bali, Beneteau, Capoforte, Fountaine Pajot, Invictus, Karnic, Lagoon, Nimbus, Prestige, Princess, and Saxdor.&nbsp;



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="683" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/LYC-Boat-Show_Overview-12-1024x683.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234781279" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/LYC-Boat-Show_Overview-12-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/LYC-Boat-Show_Overview-12-300x200.jpg 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/LYC-Boat-Show_Overview-12-768x512.jpg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/LYC-Boat-Show_Overview-12-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/LYC-Boat-Show_Overview-12-2048x1365.jpg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>



The buoyant theme that lined the yachts and superyachts was easy to note; only the best in the business were looped into the fold as top-tier brands of irrepressible quality, finesse, and polish—often featured in Robb Report Hong Kong’s <a href="https://robbreport.hk/categories/Yachts/all" data-type="link" data-id="https://robbreport.hk/categories/Yachts/all">Yacht section</a>—were seen swanning into the event. Festa Nautica 2023 offered an unparalleled opportunity for discerning yacht enthusiasts and industry professionals to access to luxury, lifestyle, and design partners who came into the mix. VIP guests where chauffeured into the event by Mercedes-Benz, when guests arrives, there was a dazzling journey of discovery with De Beers diamonds, while many sipped No.3 London Dry Gin or only the finest single malts from a holy trinity of spirits: The Macallan, Highland Park, and The Glenrothes.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="683" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Princess--1024x683.jpeg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234781281" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Princess--1024x683.jpeg 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Princess--300x200.jpeg 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Princess--768x512.jpeg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Princess--1536x1024.jpeg 1536w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Princess--2048x1365.jpeg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>



A decadent affair to be remembered, Discovery Bay Golf Club offered golf chipping and putting games, food and drink was catered by Auberge Discovery Bay Hong Kong and Peony Chinese Restaurant, while head and shoulder massages were presented by Spa Botanica to ease into the end of the day.&nbsp;



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="683" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/LYC_Main.Entrance-1024x683.jpeg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234781278" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/LYC_Main.Entrance-1024x683.jpeg 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/LYC_Main.Entrance-300x200.jpeg 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/LYC_Main.Entrance-768x512.jpeg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/LYC_Main.Entrance-1536x1025.jpeg 1536w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/LYC_Main.Entrance-2048x1366.jpeg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>



If you missed Festa Nautica 2023, well, there’s always next year. Watch this space for the next Lantau Yacht Club Boat Show for an unrivalled nautical lifestyle event.



Learn more at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.lantauyachtclub.com/home" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">lantauyachtclub.com</a>.

Boat Show

Lantau Yacht Club

Yacht

Yacht Club

yachting

Yachts

Lantau Yacht Club’s Inaugural Boat Show Was a Smooth-Sailing Affair

Don’t worry, you’re not seeing double.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.amelsyachting.com/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Amels</a>&nbsp;really did just launch two Limited Editions at once.



One&nbsp;<a rel="noreferrer noopener" href="https://robbreport.com/motors/marine/amels-new-242-monaco-eg18-2820265/" target="_blank">Amels 242</a>&nbsp;and one&nbsp;<a href="https://robbreport.com/tag/amels/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Amels</a>&nbsp;200 hit the water in tandem this week, marking a major achievement for the Dutch yard: It is the first time in the Amel’s history that two superyachts have been launched on the same day.



The semi-custom newcomers, which span 242 and 200 feet, respectively, both showcase sleek exteriors from the drawing board of respected British designer Tim Heywood and elegant interiors by Winch Design. Interestingly, the owners could have commissioned any studio to bring the living quarters to life, but both entrusted Andrew Winch’s eponymous British studio.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1000" height="563" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/amels-242.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234781011" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/amels-242.webp 1000w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/amels-242-300x169.webp 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/amels-242-768x432.webp 768w" sizes="(max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Another example of the Amels Limited Editions 242. PHOTO: SCHÖNINGH WULFFRAAT</figcaption></figure>



The new Amels 242 is the eighth hull in&nbsp;<a rel="noreferrer noopener" href="https://robbreport.com/motors/marine/amels-and-damen-yachts-in-monaco-2731349/" target="_blank">the series</a>. As the owner requested “an eye-catching exterior color scheme,” the vessel features a Flag Blue hull, an Oyster White superstructure, and dark gray accents. This striking palette has been cleverly incorporated into the interior decor, with an abundance of blue marble featured throughout. There is also a wall of semi-precious blue agate in the main entranceway and blue mosaics in the wellness area.



“The owner wanted something different, and that is certainly what he has achieved, especially with the variety of marbles,”&nbsp;<a href="https://robbreport.com/tag/damen/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Damen</a>&nbsp;project manager Peter Dijkwel said in a&nbsp;<a rel="noreferrer noopener" href="https://www.amelsyachting.com/news/two-unique-amels-limited-editions-superyachts-launched-in-one-day" target="_blank">statement</a>.



The yacht offers ample space for lounging, dining, and entertaining, as well as six staterooms for 12 guests. Other highlights include a dedicated owner’s deck with a Jacuzzi, a large aft swimming pool, and the aforementioned wellness area. Damen says the 242 has been created entirely on schedule and will be delivered to its owner on June 1, 2024.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1000" height="562" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/1-amels-60-designed-by-espen-oeino-2.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234781012" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/1-amels-60-designed-by-espen-oeino-2.webp 1000w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/1-amels-60-designed-by-espen-oeino-2-300x169.webp 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/1-amels-60-designed-by-espen-oeino-2-768x432.webp 768w" sizes="(max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">The Amels Limited Edition 60. SCHÖNINGH WULFFRAAT</figcaption></figure>



The new Amels 200 is the fourth hull in the series and is once again distinguished by a few custom touches. Most notably, the owner decided to add a balcony to the main deck and an outdoor bar to every level. They also opted for a distinctive exterior paint job. The hull, curves, and arches are colored Whisper Gray, while the windbreakers are finished in a dark-gray tone that matches the windows.



“This yacht perfectly reflects the owner’s unique vision,” adds Damen project manager Tom Oomkens.



No delivery date was announced for the 200, but it likely hit the seas with the 242 mid-next year.



Amels, which is helmed by Damen Yachting, introduced the Limited Editions line back in 2007 as a means to speed up and simplify the bespoke boatbuilding process. There are now some 50 Limited Editions cruising the world’s oceans. The yard recently introduced two next-gen hybrid models to the range, too. Perhaps sometime in the future, we’ll see the new&nbsp;<a rel="noreferrer noopener" href="https://robbreport.com/motors/marine/amels-customizable-hybrid-superyacht-2863172/" target="_blank">Amels 60</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a rel="noreferrer noopener" href="https://robbreport.com/motors/marine/amels-263-foot-hybrid-superyacht-1234672258/" target="_blank">Amels 80</a>&nbsp;launch on the same day.

Amels

Superyacht

superyachts

Amels Just Launched Two Sleek Superyachts in One Day

<a href="https://robbreport.com/tag/southern-wind/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Southern Wind</a>’s newest fleet member has taken flight.



Christened&nbsp;<a rel="noreferrer noopener" href="https://pages.sws-yachts.com/sw108_hybrid_gelliceaux" target="_blank">Gelliceaux</a>, the 108-footer is the first hull in the&nbsp;<a rel="noreferrer noopener" href="https://robbreport.com/motors/marine/southern-wind-hybrid-sailing-yacht-1234737985/" target="_blank">SW108 series</a>&nbsp;to leave the South African shipyard. The&nbsp;<a href="https://robbreport.com/tag/hybrid/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">hybrid</a>&nbsp;cruiser departed Cape Town in late October to embark on a voyage around the world.



Described as a “smart custom”&nbsp;<a href="https://robbreport.com/tag/sailing-yacht/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">sailing yacht</a>, the&nbsp;<a rel="noreferrer noopener" href="https://www.sws-yachts.com/yachts/sw108/" target="_blank">SW108</a>&nbsp;strikes a perfect balance between sustainability, efficiency, and luxury. Penned in collaboration with Nauta Design and Farr Yacht Design, the vessel is based on a versatile platform that can be tailored to meet each seafarer’s wants and needs.&nbsp;Gelliceaux’s&nbsp;owners, for instance, opted for a deeper keel, a higher sail plan, and more sail area than the original model.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1000" height="563" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/SW108_Gelliceaux_9.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234781085" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/SW108_Gelliceaux_9.webp 1000w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/SW108_Gelliceaux_9-300x169.webp 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/SW108_Gelliceaux_9-768x432.webp 768w" sizes="(max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">The aft deck and helm. SOUTHERN WIND</figcaption></figure>



“The smart custom obviously gives a client a platform, a hull, which is already proven, and within that platform, he’s able to put his own mark on and change a lot of things, change the interior layout to a certain degree, even change the performance characteristics of the boat,” A2B Marine’s Sebastian Allebrodt, who acted as project manager for the client, said in a statement.



Gelliceaux&nbsp;is equipped with a diesel-electric propulsion system that was designed in collaboration with BAE Systems. Comprising two highly efficient generators, a high-voltage lithium battery bank, and electric motors, this setup ensures a more efficient consumption of fuel while lowering carbon emissions. The newcomer also has hydrogenerating capabilities, meaning that it can produce electricity at sea to recharge the battery. As a result, the owner can cruise sans noise and pollution for longer periods.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1000" height="563" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/SW108_Gelliceaux_14.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234781086" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/SW108_Gelliceaux_14.webp 1000w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/SW108_Gelliceaux_14-300x169.webp 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/SW108_Gelliceaux_14-768x432.webp 768w" sizes="(max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">The light and airy main salon.</figcaption></figure>



“This yacht is a genuine marvel of sustainable sailing, capable of generating an impressive 35 kW while sailing at 16 knots and 25 kW while gliding at 14 knots,” adds Southern Wind’s technical manager Yann Dabbadie. “When sailing at a speed of 10 knots or higher,&nbsp;Gelliceaux&nbsp;could virtually extend her range indefinitely while retaining all the luxurious amenities on board.”



Gelliceaux&nbsp;is currently sailing off the coast of Namibia with experienced captain Mariano Sotelo at the helm and a crew of seasoned sailors on deck.



“I think we achieved exactly what the owner wanted, which is a beautiful boat that is safe to sail with his family, friends, and with all the crew if we do a regatta somewhere in the middle, in the Caribbean,” Sotelo adds. “This boat is just one of the most beautiful boats.”



You can be the judge of that.



Click&nbsp;<a rel="noreferrer noopener" href="https://robbreport.com/motors/marine/gallery/southern-winds-sailing-yacht-gelliceaux-1235384282/" target="_blank">here</a>&nbsp;to see all the pics of Gelliceaux.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1000" height="563" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/SW108_Gelliceaux_1-1.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234781087" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/SW108_Gelliceaux_1-1.webp 1000w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/SW108_Gelliceaux_1-1-300x169.webp 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/SW108_Gelliceaux_1-1-768x432.webp 768w" sizes="(max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">SOUTHERN WIND</figcaption></figure>

hybrid

sailing yacht

southern wind

This New 108-Foot Hybrid Sailing Yacht Can Generate Its Own Electricity at Sea

<a rel="noreferrer noopener" href="https://www.goldenyachts.gr/" target="_blank">Golden Yachts</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a rel="noreferrer noopener" href="https://www.phathomstudio.com/" target="_blank">Phathom Studio</a>&nbsp;want to help seafarers better connect with their surroundings while on the waves.



The Greek shipyard and Dutch design studio have teamed up to create a new&nbsp;<a href="https://robbreport.com/tag/superyacht/">superyacht</a>&nbsp;concept that aims to bring the outside world in. Christened&nbsp;<a rel="noreferrer noopener" href="https://www.phathomstudio.com/project/golden-yachts-65m-vesper-yacht/" target="_blank">Vesper</a>, the 213-footer is replete with expansive glass panels that afford sweeping exterior views and ensure the living quarters are saturated with natural light. In addition, the interior flows seamlessly to the exterior decks to facilitate true alfresco living.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full is-resized"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1000" height="563" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Vesper_1.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234781112" style="aspect-ratio:1.7857142857142858;width:650px;height:auto" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Vesper_1.webp 1000w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Vesper_1-300x169.webp 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Vesper_1-768x432.webp 768w" sizes="(max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Vesper’s sleek exterior. GOLDEN YACHTS AND PHATHOM STUDIO</figcaption></figure>



The designers say Vesper’s layout is “more akin to an architectural residence than a typical 213-foot superyacht.” The vessel features five guest cabins on the lower deck and one large VIP suite on the upper deck. The owner has a separate two-level suite—kind of like the parent’s wing in a regular house—with two en suites, a wardrobe, a lounge, and an adjoining study. The owner’s suite leads to a private balcony with an infinity spa, a water feature, and an outdoor lounge.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full is-resized"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1000" height="563" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Vesper_5.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234781113" style="aspect-ratio:1.7857142857142858;width:650px;height:auto" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Vesper_5.webp 1000w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Vesper_5-300x169.webp 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Vesper_5-768x432.webp 768w" sizes="(max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">The two-story owner’s suite. GOLDEN YACHTS AND PHATHOM STUDIO</figcaption></figure>



The sundeck is outfitted for those in need of a little R&amp;R, with a sauna, a steam room, and a second infinity spa. There is also an enclosed wellness area on this deck that can be used as a gym, a day galley, or even a juice bar.



Downstairs, the main deck is split into multiple zones that can be used independently by small groups or simultaneously by bigger parties. In this way, guests can come together for full-scale soirees or separate for more intimate gatherings.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full is-resized"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1000" height="563" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Vesper_4.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234781114" style="aspect-ratio:1.7857142857142858;width:650px;height:auto" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Vesper_4.jpg 1000w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Vesper_4-300x169.jpg 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Vesper_4-768x432.jpg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">The upper deck lounge. GOLDEN YACHTS AND PHATHOM STUDIO</figcaption></figure>



Similarly, the aft deck is equipped with a glass hatch that can be opened up to connect the&nbsp;<a href="https://robbreport.com/tag/infinity-pool/">infinity pool</a>&nbsp;with the pool bar. (You could also close the hatch if you wanted two independent spaces.)



Designed for a new generation of yacht owners, Vesper showcases an array of innovative technologies. The human-centric lighting, for instance, automatically adjusts itself to mirror the outdoor rays.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full is-resized"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1000" height="563" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Vesper_3.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234781115" style="aspect-ratio:1.7857142857142858;width:650px;height:auto" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Vesper_3.jpg 1000w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Vesper_3-300x169.jpg 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Vesper_3-768x432.jpg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">The main deck salon. GOLDEN YACHTS AND PHATHOM STUDIO</figcaption></figure>



As you might expect, Vesper also comes with a full arsenal of water toys, including four tenders and two three-seater Waverunners. This makes it even easier to immerse yourself in your surroundings.

Luxury

The Infinity Pool on This New 213-Foot Superyacht Connects to a Secret Sunken Bar

Italian superyacht builder Benetti announced five new projects at the Monaco Yacht Show, all collaborations with leading independent designers. Giovanna Vitelli, chair of the Azimut-Benetti Group, hosted the event. Benetti is celebrating its 150th anniversary as a shipbuilder.



Project Life, a 279-foot custom concept, paired <a rel="noreferrer noopener" href="https://robbreport.com/motors/marine/naval-architect-espen-oino-creates-yacht-dreams-eg18-2809448/" target="_blank">Espen Øino’s</a> exterior with Francois Zuretti for the interiors. “All the spaces aboard Project Life are designed for a new kind of social entertainment with large convivial areas and reconfigurable meeting places on each deck,” said Vitelli. “The outstanding example is the large revolving lounge that changes its focal point according to the time of the day.”



Øino said Project Life was designed around the concept of “alfresco living,” with his focal point being the exterior of the yacht. “People are finally realizing that they live most of the time outside,” he said. “Most yachts are not designed to reflect that. And it gets more difficult because [with larger yachts] you’re getting higher above the water.”



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full is-resized"><img decoding="async" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/2.-Project-Life-85M-Main-Salon.jpg.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234780584" style="width:651px" width="651" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/2.-Project-Life-85M-Main-Salon.jpg.webp 1000w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/2.-Project-Life-85M-Main-Salon.jpg-300x169.webp 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/2.-Project-Life-85M-Main-Salon.jpg-768x432.webp 768w" sizes="(max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">The main salon is designed to shift depending on the time of day. Benetti Yachts</figcaption></figure>



Project Life has many new features, but its most interesting is a massive foldout swim platform with “activity zones” on either side of the beach club as well as a marina along the side. Above the transom is a large swimming pool, with transparent glass facing the stern, joined to a raised area for outdoor dining.



On the interior, Zuretti chose to optimize natural light and use curved lines wherever possible to keep the interior feeling “organic” and more reflective of a yacht. “We wanted a friendly interior but always with a connection to the exterior,” he said.



Zuretti has penned many&nbsp;<a rel="noreferrer noopener" href="https://robbreport.com/motors/marine/boating-class-distinction-235685/" target="_blank">Benetti interiors</a>&nbsp;over the years. But this is the first collaboration between Øino, considered a megastar of gigayacht design, and the Italian brand. The Norwegian designer said the brief would be “a hard act to follow,” given Benetti’s 150-year history. Project Life could also provide a “new design language” for the Italian builder, he added. The 279-footer will have diesel-electric propulsion in an optimized hull. Integrated solar panels will power the hotel systems and electric tenders.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full is-resized"><img decoding="async" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/2.-Veranda-Deck-TM.jpg.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234780585" style="width:650px" width="650" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/2.-Veranda-Deck-TM.jpg.webp 1000w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/2.-Veranda-Deck-TM.jpg-300x169.webp 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/2.-Veranda-Deck-TM.jpg-768x432.webp 768w" sizes="(max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">The new “Veranda” deck is a reinterpretation of the enclosed main salon. Its three sides are open and connected directly to the cockpit. Benetti Yachts</figcaption></figure>



Benetti also announced a new “Veranda” deck that follows its “Oasis” deck—a long platform at the transom that served as the signature feature for its <a rel="noreferrer noopener" href="https://robbreport.com/motors/marine/benetti-131-foot-rebecca-oasis-40m-superyacht-1234587671/" target="_blank">Oasis series</a>. The yard partnered with U.K. designers RWD for a much-needed “reinterpretation” of the enclosed main-deck lounge. “This space has seen almost no change in the past 50 years and has fallen behind—mostly due to excessive formality,” said Vitelli. The Veranda concept, she added, opens the space on three sides, creating a continuity between the upper lounge and stern with no bulkheads.



“The idea is to have a great place to dine and entertain and be a seamless connection all the way from the stern of the boat well into the interior,” said Charlie Baker, a principal designer at RWD behind the concept.



The Veranda deck will be offered on Benetti’s Motopanfilo 45M, which Benetti also announced during the event. The 148-foot steel yacht has an exterior by RWD and interior by Lazzarini Pickering Architetti. The Rome-based firm also did the interior of the&nbsp;<a rel="noreferrer noopener" href="https://robbreport.com/motors/marine/superyacht-kennedy-modern-retro-1234584872/" target="_blank">121-foot Motopanfilo.</a>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full is-resized"><img decoding="async" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/2.-Project-Oro-Beach-Club.jpg.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234780586" style="width:650px" width="650" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/2.-Project-Oro-Beach-Club.jpg.webp 1000w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/2.-Project-Oro-Beach-Club.jpg-300x169.webp 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/2.-Project-Oro-Beach-Club.jpg-768x432.webp 768w" sizes="(max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Project Oro is a refresh on what the interior of a yacht can look like. This is the interpretation of the beach club.  Benetti Yachts</figcaption></figure>



Project Oro, a collaboration between Benetti and exterior designer Giorgio Cassetta, has a “sophisticated purity,” according to Vitelli. Valentina Zannier’s interior is an even more radical departure. The designer combined the hull’s natural curves with subtle features to create a stylized interior.



The beach club is a perfect example, with the U-shaped ceiling, teak floor, and curved wood beams, along with loose furniture that can be rearranged for different functions. It is like a tunnel looking out over the water.



The fourth project was a new 180-foot model in the brand’s B.Yond line. “It will be the second in the voyager series,” said Vitelli. “This is not just a superyacht or explorer, but a new category for owners who want to travel the world without giving up on the pleasure of yachting.”



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full is-resized"><img decoding="async" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/2.-B.Yond-55M-Aerial-1.jpg.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234780587" style="width:650px" width="650" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/2.-B.Yond-55M-Aerial-1.jpg.webp 1000w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/2.-B.Yond-55M-Aerial-1.jpg-300x169.webp 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/2.-B.Yond-55M-Aerial-1.jpg-768x432.webp 768w" sizes="(max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">The new 180-foot model in Benetti’s B.Yond series is being called a “voyager,” with the luxury of a superyacht and seaworthiness of an explorer. Benetti Yachts</figcaption></figure>



Paolo Vitelli, the longtime chairman of the company and his design collaborator, Stefano Righini, created the initial 121-foot vessel in the B.Yond series. But responsibility for this new 180-footer has been passed to Giovanna and designer Igor Lobanov. The designer said the exterior was inspired by the clean lines of large SUVs. “Optical illusions, such as using more curves and hiding windows, will make the exterior look bigger than it is,” he said.



Each of the five decks will have a distinct use to ensure privacy for the guests, while the “fluidity” of the interior’s asymmetrical layouts will create more space and improved functionality. “Our main task was to maximize its features and activities, so there’s a greater feeling of comfort during longer stays on board,” said Lobanov.

Benetti

gigayacht

Monaco Yacht Show

This New 279-Foot Gigayacht Concept Comes With Its Own Revolving Lounge

At the Monaco Yacht Show, surrounded by hundreds of huge new superyachts worth many billions of dollars, sits a slender, 33-foot-long trimaran. With sponsons on both sides that give it a beam of just over 19 feet and a small enclosed cockpit for a pilot and co-pilot, the boat has a futuristic look, almost like a spaceship.



But the&nbsp;<a rel="noreferrer noopener" href="https://robbreport.com/motors/marine/sp80-sailing-boat-reach-record-breaking-80-knots-1234630001/" target="_blank">SP80</a>&nbsp;is actually more like a kiteboard, or at least designed to operate like one, with an oversized kitesurfing sail that will, at least theoretically, propel the boat to a record of 80 knots, or 92 mph, powered only by the wind.



Despite its sponsorship by watchmaker Richard Mille, the SP80 initiative is a start-up started on a shoestring by three friends—Mayeul van den Broek, Xavier Lepercq, and Benoit Gaudiot—who, in 2016, decided they wanted to break the 80-knot mark. This Switzerland-based group, now up to a dozen people, will go after the water-speed record of 65.45 knots, or 75 mph, set by Australian Paul Larsen in 2012. But when is not exactly clear.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1000" height="563" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/2.-CP02_4kASP80.jpg.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234780486" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/2.-CP02_4kASP80.jpg.webp 1000w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/2.-CP02_4kASP80.jpg-300x169.webp 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/2.-CP02_4kASP80.jpg-768x432.webp 768w" sizes="(max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">The powerful kitesurfing sail joined to a 330-pound foiling boat could propel it to a new world-speed record. SP80</figcaption></figure>



The team is employing an unproven concept by combining the massive kitesurfing sails with an experimental hull that weighs just 330 pounds. They know they need to proceed slowly. There is just one boat and much could potentially go wrong.&nbsp;



The team spent more than two years and 40,000 hours designing the trimaran concept, with multiple variations on the computer. It took another two years to complete the build. This week, the SP80 is at the Monaco Yacht Show, attracting oohs and aahs, and many selfies, especially with a Richard Mille poster in the background. In the next two weeks, the vessel will undertake sea trials in the French Mediterranean, after its initial launch in Lake Geneva in Switzerland earlier this year. That first launch included a successful tow test behind another boat.&nbsp;



“We’re really at the beginning of the testing,” Lepercq, who designed the hull and sail plan, told&nbsp;Robb Report. Under a shortlist of rules for breaking the record, the SP80 is not allowed to use the same type of electronics or battery banks to adjust the sails and foils as the modern America’s Cup or&nbsp;<a href="https://robbreport.com/tag/sailgp/">SailGP</a>&nbsp;fleet do—even though the SP80 is facing far higher loads on the sails. The rules limit it to only wind power.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1000" height="563" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/2.-2023_TEAM_FIRST-TIME-ON-WATERAGuillaume-Fischer.jpg.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234780487" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/2.-2023_TEAM_FIRST-TIME-ON-WATERAGuillaume-Fischer.jpg.webp 1000w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/2.-2023_TEAM_FIRST-TIME-ON-WATERAGuillaume-Fischer.jpg-300x169.webp 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/2.-2023_TEAM_FIRST-TIME-ON-WATERAGuillaume-Fischer.jpg-768x432.webp 768w" sizes="(max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">After four years of development, the team launched the boat in Lake Geneva earlier this year. Laura Menon</figcaption></figure>



The foiling system under the hull works directly with the sails via a system of lines and connectors that link and coordinate the two systems. When winds are strong enough, the sails propel the boat to its planing speed of 12 knots and the hull lifts on its single foil. “It’s designed to be self-stabilizing,” says Lepercq. “But it’s also very fast and once it gets going, the pilots need to react very quickly.”



The two pilots, in fact, are moving at what could be considered hyperdrive on a boat this small, in conditions that could prove dangerous, possibly deadly. The cockpit is edged in Kevlar, which won’t splinter like the carbon-fiber hull if there’s a crash. The forward pilot steers the boat, while the rear pilot trims the sails, watching a small display to gauge the position of the sails.&nbsp;



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1000" height="563" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/2.-FIRST-TIME-ON-WATER-LEMAN_31juillet_-FIRST-TIME-ON-WATER-LEMANASP80.jpg.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234780488" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/2.-FIRST-TIME-ON-WATER-LEMAN_31juillet_-FIRST-TIME-ON-WATER-LEMANASP80.jpg.webp 1000w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/2.-FIRST-TIME-ON-WATER-LEMAN_31juillet_-FIRST-TIME-ON-WATER-LEMANASP80.jpg-300x169.webp 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/2.-FIRST-TIME-ON-WATER-LEMAN_31juillet_-FIRST-TIME-ON-WATER-LEMANASP80.jpg-768x432.webp 768w" sizes="(max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">The first time the boat was on the water in Lake Geneva it passed initial tow tests.&nbsp; SP80</figcaption></figure>



Both are equally important for handling the boat. Unlike a conventional sailing rig, there is no mast, just the connection with the powerful kitesurfing sail. “You want a really experienced kitesurfer like Benoit handling the sails because he understands the dynamics at these speeds.”



Despite the financial constraints, the team has built a high-strength, carbon-fiber vessel designed to take the shocks and stresses at high speeds. Lepercq says he’ll be relieved when the boat proves it can come on plane and, after the few initial water tests, it has required tweaks rather than overhauls. He says the speed run will happen when the boat is ready, probably some time next year.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1000" height="563" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/2.-1.-MOnaco-Yacht-ShowIMG_0774-1.jpg.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234780489" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/2.-1.-MOnaco-Yacht-ShowIMG_0774-1.jpg.webp 1000w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/2.-1.-MOnaco-Yacht-ShowIMG_0774-1.jpg-300x169.webp 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/2.-1.-MOnaco-Yacht-ShowIMG_0774-1.jpg-768x432.webp 768w" sizes="(max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Cofounders Lepercq, van den Broek, and Gaudiot show off the boat at the Monaco Yacht Show. Laura Manon</figcaption></figure>



But there may be other deadlines that force faster action. The team has a French competitor, Syroco, that will employ a kitesurfing sail that actually lift the vessel above the water. But it will be held down by a long fin below the surface that serves as a sea anchor.



The two teams share a connection which, due to the kite-surfing connection, makes sense. Gaudiot’s brother, Thomas, is an engineer on the Syroco team. Lepercq said he expects a third competitor, Glenn Ashby, who is part of the America’s Cup team Emirates New Zealand. Ashby earlier this year&nbsp;<a rel="noreferrer noopener" href="https://robbreport.com/motors/marine/team-new-zealand-americas-cup-team-world-land-speed-record-1234758788/" target="_blank">broke a land-speed record&nbsp;</a>in an unpowered vessel with a sailing rig on wheels. He was aided by his America’s Cup colleagues.



It’s not clear which team will eventually be first to break the record. But in terms of getting many new eyes on the boat, SP80 was a hands-down winner in Monaco.

boat

sailboat

SP80

Speed record

This Bonkers New Sailboat Is a Rocketship for Water That Could Break a Speed Record

<a href="https://www.instagram.com/oscarvinals11/" rel="noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">Oscar Viñals</a>&nbsp;of OVI’s Design wants to turn the aircraft of a sci-fi fantasy into a reality.



The Barcelona-based designer, known for penning all manner of&nbsp;<a rel="noreferrer noopener" href="https://www.behance.net/ovisdesign" target="_blank">disruptive concepts</a>, has just unveiled an insane new&nbsp;<a href="https://robbreport.com/tag/supersonic/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">supersonic</a>&nbsp;plane that points to the future of aviation.



The&nbsp;<a rel="noreferrer noopener" href="https://www.behance.net/gallery/180916105/The-Sky-OV-supersonic-re-evolution" target="_blank">Sky OV concept</a>&nbsp;is at the bleeding edge of aeronautical design, with innovative technologies that result in greater speed, efficiency, and sustainability. The aircraft has the sleek arrow-shaped silhouette of a fighter jet and four aerodynamic wings that help it soar through the skies. The wings also fold up when not in use to save space in the hangar.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full is-resized"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1000" height="563" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Sky_OV_1.jpg.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234781072" style="aspect-ratio:1.7857142857142858;width:648px;height:auto" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Sky_OV_1.jpg.webp 1000w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Sky_OV_1.jpg-300x169.webp 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Sky_OV_1.jpg-768x432.webp 768w" sizes="(max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">The Sky OV can carry 200 passengers and two pilots. OSCAR VIÑALS</figcaption></figure>



The Sky OV is equipped with bladeless turbojet engines that borrow from Dyson’s motor for the all-electric Airbus A320E. For the unversed, the British company’s engine is powered by a “Fluidic Propulsion Air Multiplier” (FPAM) system that essentially accelerates a consistent stream of air without exposed blades.



The Sky OV engines are also based on pulse detonation and use controlled explosions to create thrust. Viñals says detonation engines are more efficient than traditional jet engines at high velocities, with the ability to drive an aircraft to four or five times the speed of sound. Speaking of which, the Sky OV promises a cruising speed of 913 mph (Mach 1.2) and a max speed of 1,141 mph (Mach 1.5).



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full is-resized"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1000" height="563" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Sky_OV_3.jpg.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234781073" style="aspect-ratio:1.7857142857142858;width:648px;height:auto" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Sky_OV_3.jpg.webp 1000w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Sky_OV_3.jpg-300x169.webp 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Sky_OV_3.jpg-768x432.webp 768w" sizes="(max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">The supersonic jet has a cruising speed of 913 mph and a max speed of 1,141 mph. OSCAR VIÑALS</figcaption></figure>



“The system could deliver more thrust and use 50 percent less fuel than a small turbojet,” Viñals writes on&nbsp;<a href="https://www.behance.net/gallery/180916105/The-Sky-OV-supersonic-re-evolution" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Behance</a>. “Compared to turbofans or turboprops, it’s about 30 percent lighter and much less mechanically complex—clear advantages in aviation.”



To top it off, the Sky OV runs on a mix of hydrogen fuel and electric power to ensure true zero-emission flight. This&nbsp;<a href="https://robbreport.com/tag/concept/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">concept</a>&nbsp;also has “solar dots” integrated into the ceiling that could produce further electric power from the sun’s rays.



<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
<iframe loading="lazy" title="...out of a Star Wars film!! The supersonic &quot;Sky OV&quot; concept plane" width="500" height="281" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/rUHXpaAR5Zs?start=1&#038;feature=oembed" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe>
</div></figure>



 Measuring just over 149 feet, the craft can comfortably carry up to 200 passengers and two crew. There are no renders of the interior, but Viñals says fliers will be in very comfortable conditions, with the cabin offering “all kinds of commodities and luxury devices.”



Industry experts are still divided as to whether or not&nbsp;<a rel="noreferrer noopener" href="https://robbreport.com/motors/aviation/supersonic-flying-companies-1234816259/" target="_blank">supersonic flying will take off</a>. Even still, companies such as&nbsp;<a rel="noreferrer noopener" href="https://robbreport.com/motors/aviation/boom-supersonic-jet-fly-next-months-1234889597/" target="_blank">Boom Supersonic</a>,&nbsp;<a rel="noreferrer noopener" href="https://robbreport.com/motors/aviation/slideshow/the-rockets-red-glare-celebrate-our-spacefaring-future-on-the-4th/spike-aerospaces-s-512/" target="_blank">Spike Aerospace</a>, and Lockheed Martin are working on supersonic jets. Viñals has also designed other supersonic aircraft, including a jet that could fly from New York City to London in just 80 minutes. We’d certainly love that to become a reality.

Aviation

Barcelona

Designer

Jet concept

OVI Design

Supersonic

supersonic jet

This Bonkers Supersonic Jet Concept Could Fly at up to 1,141 MPH—With 200 Passengers

<a rel="noreferrer noopener" href="https://www.ltaresearch.com/" target="_blank">Lighter Than Air</a>&nbsp;(LTA) has found a clear path to the skies.&nbsp;



The American outfit, which was created by Google cofounder Sergey Brin in 2015, was recently given the green light to fly its epic airship in California. &nbsp;



The&nbsp;<a rel="noreferrer noopener" href="https://robbreport.com/motors/aviation/google-co-founder-sergey-brin-building-airship-1234682672/" target="_blank">Pathfinder 1</a>&nbsp;prototype received a special airworthiness certificate from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) in early September, as reported by&nbsp;<a rel="noreferrer noopener" href="https://spectrum.ieee.org/lta-airship-faa-clearance" target="_blank">IEEE Spectrum</a>. The certificate permits LTA to fly the helium-filled aircraft at an altitude of up to 1,500 feet in the airspace at Moffett Field and the neighboring Palo Alto Airport.&nbsp;



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1000" height="563" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/LTA_Pathfinder.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234780986" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/LTA_Pathfinder.webp 1000w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/LTA_Pathfinder-300x169.webp 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/LTA_Pathfinder-768x432.webp 768w" sizes="(max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">The Pathfinder 1 measures 407 feet from tip to tail. LTA RESEARCH</figcaption></figure>



“Pathfinder 1’s experimental flight test program is to demonstrate and establish the flight envelope for the airship,” LTA wrote in a letter to the FAA. “LTA’s test plan is tailored to include substantial indoor and outdoor ground testing, using a build-up approach to gradually increase the flight envelope.”



Pathfinder measures 407 feet from tip to tail, making it roughly twice the length of an Airbus A380. It will be the longest airship to hit the skies in almost a century, following the 804-foot Hindenburg-class behemoths of the 1930s. LTA is also working on a third iteration, the Pathfinder 3, which will stretch about 600 feet.



In terms of construction, the Pathfinder’s internal structure is made of polymer tubing that has been reinforced with carbon fiber. This rigid yet lightweight framework distinguishes the airship from a blimp and means that it can use non-flammable helium as a lifting gas rather than potentially explosive hydrogen.&nbsp;



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1000" height="563" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/LTA_Research_Pathfinder1_1.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234780989" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/LTA_Research_Pathfinder1_1.webp 1000w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/LTA_Research_Pathfinder1_1-300x169.webp 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/LTA_Research_Pathfinder1_1-768x432.webp 768w" sizes="(max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">The airship is made up of polymer tubing and titanium. LTA RESEARCH</figcaption></figure>



As for grunt, the airship is equipped with a hybrid propulsion system that sees two 150 kW diesel generators and 24 batteries powering 12 electric motors. (LTA plans to incorporate hydrogen in some capacity in the future, too.) The craft can reportedly reach speeds of up to 75 mph and complete vertical takeoffs and landings. It could eventually carry up to 14 people and has a cargo capacity of up to 11,000 pounds. To that end, LTA says the airship will be primarily used to bring humanitarian aid (food and supplies) to remote areas that are difficult to access via traditional aircraft and vehicles.



Pathfinder 1’s airworthiness certificate is valid for a full year, though LTA expects the test program to be complete within 180 days. After several flights in California, the airship will head back to the company’s hangar in Akron, Ohio. This massive 364,000-square-foot facility, which fittingly used to be the Goodyear Airdock, will be where LTA builds and stores its fleet.&nbsp;



Keep your eyes on the skies, folks.

airship

lighter than air

Google Founder Sergey Brin’s Bonkers 400-Foot Airship Has Been Cleared to Hit the Skies

Jaunts across the pond just got a little greener.



A&nbsp;<a href="https://robbreport.com/tag/virgin-atlantic/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Virgin Atlantic</a>&nbsp;passenger plane today flew from London to New York using 100 percent&nbsp;<a rel="noreferrer noopener" href="https://robbreport.com/motors/aviation/bio-fuel-jets-80-percent-less-carbon-emissions-1234608908/" target="_blank">sustainable aviation fuel (SAF)</a>, marking a significant step toward the decarbonization of long-haul flights.



Powered by Rolls-Royce Trent 1000 engines, the Virgin Boeing 787 took off from London’s Heathrow Airport just before 7 a.m. EST on Tuesday and arrived at New York’s John F. Kennedy International Airport around 3 p.m. EST. Flight100, as Virgin is calling it, marks the first time a commercial airliner has flown long haul on 100 percent SAF.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full is-resized"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1000" height="563" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/Flight1002.jpg-2.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234781693" style="aspect-ratio:1.7857142857142858;width:648px;height:auto" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/Flight1002.jpg-2.webp 1000w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/Flight1002.jpg-2-300x169.webp 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/Flight1002.jpg-2-768x432.webp 768w" sizes="(max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">The Virgin Boeing 787’s Rolls-Royce Trent 1000 engines. VIRGIN ATLANTIC</figcaption></figure>



Virgin Atlantic’s billionaire founder <a href="https://robbreport.com/tag/richard-branson/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Richard Branson</a>, the airline’s chief executive Shai Weiss, and Britain’s transport minister Mark Harper were all on today’s flight, but there were no paying passengers or cargo onboard.



“I couldn’t be prouder to be onboard Flight100 today alongside the teams at Virgin Atlantic and our partners, which have been working together to set the flight path for the decarbonization of long-haul aviation,” Branson said in a statement.



Flight100 comes just one week after a&nbsp;<a rel="noreferrer noopener" href="https://robbreport.com/motors/aviation/gulfstream-g600-delivered-2870055/" target="_blank">Gulfstream G600 business jet</a>&nbsp;completed the&nbsp;<a rel="noreferrer noopener" href="https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/gulfstream-completes-worlds-first-trans-atlantic-flight-on-100-sustainable-aviation-fuel-301993029.html" target="_blank">world’s first transatlantic flight</a>&nbsp;using the same biofuel. Made from waste materials, such as cooking oil or animal fats, SAF cuts CO2 emissions by up to 80 percent, reduces particulate matter by 90 percent, and eliminates sulfur oxide, while working just like a traditional jet fuel.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full is-resized"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1000" height="563" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/Flight1003.jpg-2.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234781694" style="aspect-ratio:1.7857142857142858;width:650px;height:auto" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/Flight1003.jpg-2.webp 1000w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/Flight1003.jpg-2-300x169.webp 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/Flight1003.jpg-2-768x432.webp 768w" sizes="(max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">The Virgin Boeing 787 getting topped up with SAF. VIRGIN ATLANTIC</figcaption></figure>



SAF could have a <a rel="noreferrer noopener" href="https://robbreport.com/motors/aviation/first-airbus-a380-powered-by-saf-1234671314/" target="_blank">significant role</a> to play in the decarbonisation of long-haul flights. It could also help the industry move closer to the so-called “jet zero” strategy—that is, aviation’s goal to reach <a rel="noreferrer noopener" href="https://robbreport.com/motors/aviation/business-aviation-zero-emissions-goal-1234808618/" target="_blank">net zero by 2050</a>. The industry currently accounts for an estimated 2 to 3 percent of global carbon emissions, but that could be reduced if SAF is made widely available.



The problem is that the fuel is pricey and hard to come by. (SAF can cost three times more than conventional jet fuel but accounts for less than 0.1 percent of total global jet fuel in use today.) Demand is only growing, too, with airlines eager to increase the percentage of SAF they are allowed to blend in with kerosene. The US Department of Energy estimates that all forms of aviation will eventually need 35 billion gallons per year to meet the 2050 net-carbon-zero goals.



“There’s simply not enough SAF, and it’s clear that in order to reach production at scale, we need to see significantly more investment,” adds Virgin Atlantic CEO Shai Weiss. “This will only happen when regulatory certainty and price support mechanisms, backed by the government, are in place. Flight100 proves that if you make it, we’ll fly it.”

Jumbo jet

London

sustainable aviation fuel

Virgin Atlantic

A Virgin Atlantic Jumbo Jet Just Flew From London to N.Y.C. Using 100% Sustainable Aviation Fuel

With the promise of supersonic business jets about five years away, yesterday marked the 20th anniversary of the last&nbsp;<a rel="noreferrer noopener" href="https://robbreport.com/tag/concorde/" target="_blank">Concorde</a>&nbsp;flight. The joint project between Britain and France, which made its first flight on May 24, 1976, from London Heathrow to Dulles International Airport, launched a nearly 30-year era of jet-setting. With prices hovering around US$10,000 (HK$78,065.50) for a round-trip ticket (US$20,000/HK$156,131 in today’s dollars) the Concorde was equated with the wealthy and famous. Proponents pointed to ravel time between Europe and North America being cut in half.



In 1996, a British Airways Concorde crossed from New York to London in about two hours and 52 minutes—still the fastest trans-Atlantic crossing by a passenger plane. At its height, the Concorde hosted jet-setters such as Paul McCartney and Elizabeth Taylor, according to&nbsp;<a rel="noreferrer noopener" href="https://www.npr.org/2023/11/24/1211551109/concorde-last-flight-2003" target="_blank">NPR.com</a>. During the famous Live Aid concert in 1985, Phil Collins performed in London, jumped on the Concorde, and then played in Philadelphia on the same day. “I was in England this afternoon,” Collins said to the crowd as he took his seat behind the piano. “Funny old world, isn’t it?”



Though many other airlines placed orders for the aircraft, in the end only Air France and British Airways—operating seven aircraft each—flew the Concorde. JFK became the most regular route from London and Paris, but London to Bahrain, London to Dulles, and London to Miami via Washington also became common. Dallas also had service from Washington, but it was subsonic. London to Barbados, on Saturdays, was perhaps it most unusual route.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full is-resized"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1000" height="562" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/1.-Lead-Concorde-AM.jpg-1.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234781491" style="aspect-ratio:1.7857142857142858;width:649px;height:auto" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/1.-Lead-Concorde-AM.jpg-1.webp 1000w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/1.-Lead-Concorde-AM.jpg-1-300x169.webp 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/1.-Lead-Concorde-AM.jpg-1-768x432.webp 768w" sizes="(max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">In 1996, British Airways set a transatlantic speed record with the Concorde of 2 hours 52 minutes from New York to London, a record that still stands.&nbsp; BRITISH AIRWAYS</figcaption></figure>



But the Concorde always had critics. It consumed four times more jet fuel than a Boeing 747, which could carry 500 passengers compared to the Concorde’s 100. The supersonic jet’s round-trip price was about US$10,000 in the 1990s, or about twice that in today’s dollars. The sonic&nbsp;<a href="https://robbreport.com/tag/boom/">boom</a>&nbsp;garnered global criticism, with Congress and many other governments banning overland supersonic travel.



An Air France Concorde crash at Charles de Gaulle Airport in 2000, which killed all 109 people aboard, forced all Concordes in service to be grounded for more than year. Shortly thereafter, 9/11 shook up the airline industry, making it hard for most travelers to justify the environmental costs and expenses of supersonic travel on an aging fleet.



“Commercial supersonic flight will become like travel to the moon: a goal achieved, and then long abandoned,” commentator Lester Reingold said on NPR’s Morning Edition in 2001.&nbsp;



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full is-resized"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1000" height="563" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/AS_Boom_30K_16x9_v2.jpg-1.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234781493" style="aspect-ratio:1.7857142857142858;width:651px;height:auto" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/AS_Boom_30K_16x9_v2.jpg-1.webp 1000w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/AS_Boom_30K_16x9_v2.jpg-1-300x169.webp 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/AS_Boom_30K_16x9_v2.jpg-1-768x432.webp 768w" sizes="(max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Boom’s Overture is the heir-apparent to Concorde, but with a more eco-friendly footprint.&nbsp; BOOM</figcaption></figure>



But companies like Boom are hoping to bring back Mach-1-plus travel with a new generation of supersonic business jets. The delta wings and slender fuselage of the&nbsp;<a rel="noreferrer noopener" href="https://robbreport.com/motors/aviation/boom-supersonic-overture-design-1234728720/" target="_blank">Boom Overture</a>&nbsp;look similar to the Concorde’s—though the Overture’s wingspan is 23 feet wider, and it holds a third less passengers. The Concorde was faster, too, with the ability to reach up to twice the speed of sound. The Overture is designed to reach Mach 1.7. Boom predicts that the Overture will be able to serve more than 600 routes around the world in about half the time of subsonic commercial jets.



The company is working on ways to mitigate the sonic boom, while also developing its engines to fly on sustainable aviation fuel (SAF), which reduces carbon emissions by up to 90 percent over conventional jet fuel.



United and American Airlines have placed 35 orders for Overtures. Boom is planning to have the aircraft in commercial service by 2029.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full is-resized"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1000" height="562" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/2.-Concorde-GettyImages-216725.jpg.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234781494" style="aspect-ratio:1.7857142857142858;width:647px;height:auto" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/2.-Concorde-GettyImages-216725.jpg.webp 1000w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/2.-Concorde-GettyImages-216725.jpg-300x169.webp 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/2.-Concorde-GettyImages-216725.jpg-768x432.webp 768w" sizes="(max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">The Concorde was the symbol of international jet-setting, but its star dropped after a 2000 crash that killed all passengers on board.&nbsp; GETTY IMAGES</figcaption></figure>



Critics remain skeptical of the ambitious timeline and some question whether the Overture will ever fly.



Boom reports that it is ahead of schedule on the construction of its new production facility in North Carolina. Saudi Arabia’s Neom state-owned fund confirmed that it has invested an undisclosed amount in Boom, and the company said it has raised US$700 million (HK$5.47 billion) to date with the completion of its latest round. But putting the Overture into commercial service will require as much as US$6 billion (HK$46.84&nbsp;billion) to US$8 billion (HK$62.46 billion), Boom CEO Blake Scholl told&nbsp;<a rel="noreferrer noopener" href="https://robbreport.com/motors/aviation/supersonic-flying-companies-1234816259/" target="_blank">Robb Report.</a>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full is-resized"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1000" height="562" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/2.-Concorde-GettyImages-172222685.jpg-1.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234781496" style="aspect-ratio:1.7857142857142858;width:648px;height:auto" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/2.-Concorde-GettyImages-172222685.jpg-1.webp 1000w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/2.-Concorde-GettyImages-172222685.jpg-1-300x169.webp 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/2.-Concorde-GettyImages-172222685.jpg-1-768x432.webp 768w" sizes="(max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">The Darth Vader–like aircraft is permanently grounded after nearly 30 years in service.&nbsp; GETTY IMAGES</figcaption></figure>



The company plans to do the first test flight of its&nbsp;<a rel="noreferrer noopener" href="https://robbreport.com/motors/aviation/boom-supersonic-jet-fly-next-months-1234889597/" target="_blank">XB-1 demonstration aircraft&nbsp;</a>before the end of this year. The company says the first flight will be one of its milestones before attempting supersonic speeds in 2024.



In the meantime, 20 years after its final flight, the Concorde lives on as the symbol of supersonic flight. Its presence is mostly relegated to air museums and, of course, as the lead outdoor sculpture at Charles De Gaulle airport in Paris. But the concept could live on if Boom and other lesser-known supersonic start-ups are successful.

Concorde

Luxury Travel

Travel

The Concorde Flew for the Last Time 20 Years Ago. Now, a New Supersonic Jet Is Poised to Hit the Skies.

<a rel="noreferrer noopener" style="box-sizing: border-box; border-width: 0px 0px 1px; color: rgb(0, 0, 0); text-decoration: none; -webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; text-rendering: optimizelegibility; border-bottom-color: rgb(237, 29, 37);" href="https://robbreport.com/motors/cars/samson-sky-switchblade-flying-car-faa-approval-1234732424/" target="_blank">Samson Sky’s Switchblade</a>&nbsp;is up, up, and away.&nbsp;The&nbsp;<a rel="noreferrer noopener" style="box-sizing: border-box; border-width: 0px 0px 1px; color: rgb(0, 0, 0); text-decoration: none; -webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; text-rendering: optimizelegibility; border-bottom-color: rgb(237, 29, 37);" href="https://robbreport.com/motors/aviation/samson-sky-switchblade-flying-car-to-road-test-2784310/" target="_blank">flying car</a>&nbsp;recently completed its maiden flight over Washington State, paving the way for a new fleet that will be thousands strong.&nbsp;



<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
<iframe loading="lazy" title="FIRST FLIGHT of the Samson Sky Switchblade Flying Sports Car" width="500" height="281" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/R3SpMa6k8Kk?feature=oembed" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe>
</div></figure>



Samson Sky’s Switchblade&nbsp;is up, up, and away.&nbsp;The&nbsp;flying car&nbsp;recently completed its maiden flight over Washington State, paving the way for a new fleet that will be thousands strong.&nbsp;The retrofuturistic three-wheeler, which has been 14 years in the making, smoothly took off from the runway at Grant County International Airport with Veteran test pilot Robert Moehle at the helm. In cloudy but calm conditions, the aircraft flew to an altitude of 500 feet, passing over the expansive airport and surrounding foothills before touching down after roughly six minutes.



“The Switchblade handled great,” Moehle said in a&nbsp;<a href="https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/switchblade-flying-sports-car-achieves-first-flight-301984337.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">statement</a>&nbsp;shared Friday. “I’m excited to be the first to fly it away from the ground.”&nbsp;



Moehle, who previously served as test director for the Boeing 787, has notched 2400 hours in 56 commercial and experimental aircraft. His input over the past months has helped the Samson R&amp;D team perfect the Switchblade prototype. The team will now use the test data from the most recent flight to finalize production engineering and build several production prototypes.







“After 14 years of design and rigorous testing, our first flight is a huge milestone,”&nbsp;<a href="https://robbreport.com/motors/aviation/samson-motorworks-switchblade-flying-sports-car-2746174/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Samson CEO Sam Bousfield</a>&nbsp;said. “This puts us on the path towards producing thousands of Switchblades to meet the large and enthusiastic demand we’re receiving.”&nbsp;



Indeed, demand for the Switchblade is strong, with more than 2,300 reservations from 57 countries. (The singular vehicle supports both right- and left-hand drive so it is suitable for collectors all over the globe.) Speaking of which, the street-legal ride can cruise the streets at up to 125 mph or fly through the skies at approximately 200 mph.&nbsp;



Owners can drive the Switchblade from their garage to a nearby airport and turn it into a plane in just three minutes. The wings and tail will fold back in neatly when you’re ready to get back on the road.&nbsp; The hybrid propulsion system runs on regular gas rather than aviation fuel, too, which means you can fill the vehicle up at any old gas station. Samson says the aircraft can cover 500 miles at 160 mph before it will need to be refueled. To top it off, the Switchblade can accommodate two people, plus luggage.&nbsp;



“Someone asked me how it felt to see the Switchblade fly,” added Bousfield. “I thought about it, and realized this is what it feels like when your dreams come true.”



The Switchblade starts at US$170,000 (HK$1,325,708) and requires a private pilot’s license to fly. You can reserve the vehicle&nbsp;<a rel="noreferrer noopener" href="https://www.samsonsky.com/how-to-purchase/" target="_blank">here</a>&nbsp;for US$2,000 (HK$15,596). Other flying cars also preparing to take flight include Klein Vision’s&nbsp;<a rel="noreferrer noopener" href="https://robbreport.com/motors/aviation/klein-vision-aircar-certified-fly-1234660331/" target="_blank">AirCar</a>,&nbsp;<a rel="noreferrer noopener" href="https://robbreport.com/best-of-the-best/gallery/2021-best-aviation-1234616245/aeromobil/" target="_blank">Aeromobil</a>‘s sporty AM4 model, and the&nbsp;<a rel="noreferrer noopener" href="https://robbreport.com/motors/aviation/worlds-first-production-flying-car-farnborough-2804562/" target="_blank">Pal-V Liberty</a>.

flying car

Samson

Samson Sky

Sitchblade

Watch: This Bonkers Flying Car Just Completed Its First Flight

Any private flier who has been watching the sector since the start of the pandemic has seen the meteoric rise of <a rel="noreferrer noopener" href="https://robbreport.com/tag/wheels-up/" target="_blank">Wheels Up</a>. It became the third-largest business aviation firm in less than 10 years and arguably the best-known brand behind NetJets. Wheels Up climaxed its upsurge with a 2021 IPO that valued the company at US$2.1 billion (HK$16.37 billion) and raised US$650 million (H$5.07 billion).



Eight consecutive quarters of heavy losses brought it back to earth. Founder Kenny Dichter left the company last May as chairman and CEO, along with hand-picked board members, at the same time that many Wheels Up clients headed for the exits. Some pundits were quick to forecast bankruptcy.



“The reports of my death are greatly exaggerated,” Mark Twain wrote after reading his obituary. That may be the case for Wheels Up, but not by much. The charter and jet-card provider saw sales drop by US$101 million (HK$787.36 million) in the first quarter of 2023, US$161 million (HK1.26 billion) in the second, and US$100 million (HK$779.56 million) in the third, according to last week’s third-quarter financial report. Other Q3 takeaways: Active members dropped 15 percent in the last year, and live flight legs were down 21 percent.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full is-resized"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1000" height="563" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/2.-IFwCT-0U.jpg.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234781240" style="aspect-ratio:1.7857142857142858;width:650px;height:auto" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/2.-IFwCT-0U.jpg.webp 1000w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/2.-IFwCT-0U.jpg-300x169.webp 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/2.-IFwCT-0U.jpg-768x432.webp 768w" sizes="(max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Wheels Up is trying to reach a corporate client via its main shareholder, Delta Airlines, to complete its turnaround. WHEELS UP</figcaption></figure>



But there was one glimmer: EBITDA narrowed to an US$18.5 million (HK$144.22 million) loss in the third quarter, compared to US$45.2 million a year ago. “This is the best EBITDA and financial performance we’ve had for a couple of years,” Todd Smith, Wheels Up’s chief financial officer, tells Robb Report. “We’re getting to the point where we have some positive proof points to back up the strategies we’re taking. We expect those to accelerate as we go into 2024.”



Smith, a veteran CFO of multiple divisions of GE, assumed the role of interim CEO following Dichter’s departure in May, while other <a href="https://robbreport.com/tag/private-aviation/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">private aviation</a> leaders, including those of its major shareholder Delta Airlines, assumed control of the board.



Since then, Wheels Up sold off its aircraft management business to Airshare, redrew its primary service area to exclude non-profitable areas of the Midwest and Pacific Northwest from capped hourly rates, and went through two rounds of layoffs. It also condensed its six operating certificates to three. “We’re getting more efficient in our overall infrastructure,” says Smith, noting the company plans to eventually operate under just one certificate.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full is-resized"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1000" height="563" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/2.-wheels-up-cpe6vU3J.jpg.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234781241" style="aspect-ratio:1.7857142857142858;width:650px;height:auto" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/2.-wheels-up-cpe6vU3J.jpg.webp 1000w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/2.-wheels-up-cpe6vU3J.jpg-300x169.webp 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/2.-wheels-up-cpe6vU3J.jpg-768x432.webp 768w" sizes="(max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">The company’s meteoric rise to become the third-largest private air firm was matched by a fall that seemed to be toward bankruptcy. WHEELS UP</figcaption></figure>



In September, Wheels Up announced the appointment of George Mattson as CEO, along with a cash infusion of US$450 million (HK$3.5 billion) by Delta, Cox Enterprises, and CK Wheels, owned by Knighthead Capital Management and Certares Management. On November 16, it received an additional US$40-million (HK$311.83 million) term loan facility from Kore Capital. Mattson, who sat on the board of Delta Airlines for 11 years during its own turnaround, also announced Delta-aligned corporate programs designed to bring the company back to profitability.



After launching Wheels Up in 2013, Dichter publicly said he wanted to build a billion-dollar company in 10 years, with 10,000 members. He focused on internal growth and brand recognition, spending heavily on marketing and celebrity endorsements, as well as acquisitions.



“He did it,” says Doug Gollan, editor of&nbsp;PrivateJetCardComparisons.com&nbsp;and a frequent contributor to&nbsp;Forbes.com&nbsp;on business aviation. “It’s that scale and brand recognition that was interesting to Delta.”



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full is-resized"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="991" height="562" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/kenny-dichter1.jpg.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234781242" style="aspect-ratio:1.7647058823529411;width:650px;height:auto" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/kenny-dichter1.jpg.webp 991w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/kenny-dichter1.jpg-300x170.webp 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/kenny-dichter1.jpg-768x436.webp 768w" sizes="(max-width: 991px) 100vw, 991px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Founder Kenny Dichter created a business-aviation empire in 10 years, but some analysts say the growth was too fast.  WHEELS UP</figcaption></figure>



To fuel growth, Wheels Up acquired six air providers during the pandemic. But trying to merge six companies during arguably the most chaotic and unprecedented growth period for private aviation caused Wheels Up to flounder, with clients complaining of dropped flights and missed schedules, on top of the quarterly losses.



The new team will “focus on operational reliability and consistency—we want to become the best-run private-aviation company in the world,” says Mattson. He points to Wheels Up’s most recent 99 percent flight-completions rate, along with 90 percent of flights departing within 60 minutes of the original schedule, as two markers of a nascent turnaround. &nbsp;



Gollan says after releasing those numbers—an unusual move among air firms, typically cagey with statistics—two chief executives of competitive companies approached him. “They asked if I thought the numbers were real,” he says. “The basic context was they thought they were pretty good and hard to get much higher. They were also surprised since those numbers didn’t match Wheels Up’s industry perception.”



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full is-resized"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1000" height="563" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/2.-Wheels-Up-qxTiOoRw.jpg.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234781243" style="aspect-ratio:1.7857142857142858;width:649px;height:auto" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/2.-Wheels-Up-qxTiOoRw.jpg.webp 1000w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/2.-Wheels-Up-qxTiOoRw.jpg-300x169.webp 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/2.-Wheels-Up-qxTiOoRw.jpg-768x432.webp 768w" sizes="(max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">The company will be focusing on increasing its midsized jet fleet as it courts corporate clients.  WHEELS UP</figcaption></figure>



Gollan likens Wheels Up to a sports team “coming off two very tough seasons.”



Wheels Up is also leaning heavily into its relationship with Delta, creating a program for corporate clients that would focus on mid-week travel, while leisure travelers would continue to fill the aircraft on weekends. “Private and commercial aviation have existed in two different worlds,” says Mattson, who has been meeting with Fortune 500 corporations, touting advantages he sees by mixing private jets with Delta’s commercial network. “They’ve never really tried to integrate or cross. We’re trying to promote flexibility across fleet types to fit in with usage.”



Wheels Up’s client base is 85 percent leisure clients, a number Mattson wants to remake by tapping into Delta’s network of 45,000 corporate customers. “Two years from now, I think the mix will be 60/40 leisure and corporate, or even 50/50,” says Mattson. “You need to keep your planes flying every day to make money. And if you have customers flying only on weekends, it’s hard to make that math work.”



The fleet will change as its customer base transitions, with more midsized or super midsized <a href="https://robbreport.com/tag/business-jets/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">business jets</a>. “The <a rel="noreferrer noopener" href="https://robbreport.com/motors/aviation/slideshow/12-new-jets-helicopters-and-flight-services-debut-florida-nbaa/wheels-up/" target="_blank">turboprop</a> component of our fleet is important, but we have a lot more jets, and the mix will change in favor of larger aircraft,” says Mattson. Wheels Up is also allowing members to use funds for both its flights and on Delta’s and its air partners’ fleets, with European connections via its U.K. subsidiary Air Partner.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full is-resized"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="988" height="563" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/king_air_350i_fleet_01.jpg.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234781244" style="aspect-ratio:1.7647058823529411;width:649px;height:auto" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/king_air_350i_fleet_01.jpg.webp 988w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/king_air_350i_fleet_01.jpg-300x171.webp 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/king_air_350i_fleet_01.jpg-768x438.webp 768w" sizes="(max-width: 988px) 100vw, 988px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">The KingAir turboprops fueled its initial growth, offering much lower prices for regional flights than business jets.  WHEELS UP</figcaption></figure>



The decision to reduce its guaranteed-program pricing areas by 20 percent means lost sales and memberships in the short term. “But we’re very much focused on profitable growth for the long term, instead of just inflating the top line for growth’s sake,” says Smith. “And we’ve retained 80 percent of our guaranteed-pricing network across the U.S..”



“Industrywide, guaranteed&nbsp;<a rel="noreferrer noopener" href="https://privatejetcardcomparisons.com/2023/10/07/q3-2023-jet-card-hourly-prices-hold-steady/" target="_blank">program prices are up 24</a>&nbsp;percent&nbsp;since 2020,” notes Gollan. “Wheels Up also has a significant price advantage over most other guaranteed programs for transcontinental flying.”



Even after shedding 90 aircraft under the sale to Airshare, Wheels Up has the fourth- or fifth-largest fleet in the country. “If they can bring in some of Delta’s corporate clients or promote private flying via Delta’s platforms such as the Olympics, that’s good for the industry,” says Gollan.



Other good news for Wheels Up: The economic headwinds facing most consumers seems to be bypassing private aviation. A survey of Gollan’s members shows most plan to increase their flight hours slightly this year. WingX, which tracks global flights of business jets, says the U.S. is down 2 percent so far this month compared to last year, while competitor Argus predicts November will be up 0.7 percent over November 2022.



But with Wheels Up continuing to bleed red ink, it’s clear the 2.0 version has a long way to go before reaching profitability. “There are a lot of positives,” says Gollan about Wheels Up’s initiatives. “But as they say in sports, It’s not what they write in the preseason. It’s what happens when you hit the field.”

Private Jet

Wheels Up

Wheels Up Aims to Reinvent Itself by Investing in Commuters

Would you struggle to pick between the&nbsp;Mercedes-Benz CLK GTR&nbsp;coupe or roadster? You don’t have to, thanks to RM Sotheby’s.



The auction house is set to auction off hard- and open-top versions of the racing-derived supercar before this month’s Las Vegas Grand Prix. The vehicles aren’t being sold as a set, but if you want to add both to your collection, here’s your chance.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full is-resized"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1000" height="563" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/clk03.jpg.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234780956" style="aspect-ratio:1.7857142857142858;width:651px;height:auto" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/clk03.jpg.webp 1000w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/clk03.jpg-300x169.webp 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/clk03.jpg-768x432.webp 768w" sizes="(max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">The&nbsp;<a href="https://robbreport.com/tag/mercedes-benz/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Mercedes-Benz</a>&nbsp;CLK GTR roadster NEIL FRASER/RM SOTHEBY’S</figcaption></figure>



The&nbsp;<a rel="noreferrer noopener" href="https://rmsothebys.com/en/auctions/lv23/las-vegas/lots/r0016-1999-mercedes-benz-clk-gtr-coupe/1424810" target="_blank">coupe</a>&nbsp;on offer is the seventh example to roll off the line. It’s finished in Mercedes trademark racing color Iridium Silver Metallic over a blue-gray tartan fabric-trimmed interior. It’s not as brutish as the competition car it’s based on, but its mid-mounted, naturally aspirated V-12 still pumps out 622 horses and 539 ft lbs of twist. The mill is mounted to a six-speed manual that sends power to the rear axle. Despite not being a race car, the road version can still rocket from zero to 62 mph in 3.8 seconds and has a top speed of 199 mph. RM Sotheby’s expects it to sell for between US$8 million (HK$62.4 million) and US$9 million (HK$70 million).



The&nbsp;<a rel="noreferrer noopener" href="https://rmsothebys.com/en/auctions/lv23/las-vegas/lots/r0027-2002-mercedes-benz-clk-gtr-roadster/1424821" target="_blank">roadster</a>&nbsp;was the third example built. It’s also finished in silver, though its interior is covered in black and gray leather. Its V-12, which is also mated to a manual, isn’t as powerful as the one in the coupé, but it still produces a respectable 592 hp and 516 ft lbs of torque. In addition to being the more exclusive of the two CLK GTRs, it also has just 106 miles on the odometer, which helps explain why it’s expected to sell for between US$10.5 million (HK$81.9 million) and US$13 million (HK$101.4 million).



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full is-resized"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1000" height="563" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/clk02.jpg.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234780957" style="aspect-ratio:1.7857142857142858;width:649px;height:auto" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/clk02.jpg.webp 1000w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/clk02.jpg-300x169.webp 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/clk02.jpg-768x432.webp 768w" sizes="(max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Inside the CLK GTR coupé RM SOTHEBY’S</figcaption></figure>



Unsurprisingly, the CLK GTRs are the highlights of RM Sotheby’s&nbsp;<a rel="noreferrer noopener" href="https://rmsothebys.com/en/auctions/lv23" target="_blank">Las Vegas Grand Prix sales event</a>, which will be held on Friday, November 17. The cars are being sold as different lots, but that’s not stopping you from bidding on both. Just be prepared to spend over US$20 million (HK$156 million) if you want to take them both home.



Click&nbsp;<a rel="noreferrer noopener" href="https://robbreport.com/motors/cars/gallery/photos-mercedes-benz-clk-gtr-coupe-and-roadster-auction-1235403412" target="_blank">here</a>&nbsp;for more photos of the Mercedes-Benz CLK GTR Coupé and Roadster.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full is-resized"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1000" height="563" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/clkgallery.jpg.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234780958" style="aspect-ratio:1.7857142857142858;width:649px;height:auto" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/clkgallery.jpg.webp 1000w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/clkgallery.jpg-300x169.webp 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/clkgallery.jpg-768x432.webp 768w" sizes="(max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">NEIL FRASER/RM SOTHEBY’S</figcaption></figure>

Auction

Las Vegas Grand Prix

Mercedes-Benz

Mercedes-Benz CLK GTR

Two Ultra-Rare Mercedes-Benz CLK GTRs Could Fetch Over HK$156.19 Million Before the Las Vegas Grand Prix

It’s a landmark year for Sotheby’s, celebrating and honouring 50 years in the region. Appropriately, this autumnal season, Sotheby’s Hong Kong will showcase an extraordinary series of evening previews and auctions starting this week.



Looking at the catalogue of treasures that are up for interest and bidding, the breadth and range of items ripe for the picking are magnificent in scope and provenance. Some of the highlights that stand out include dazzling diamonds, rare watches, and vintage artifacts.



From the luxury lot, here’s what caught our eye.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Jewels</h3>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="683" height="1024" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/HK1399_CR776_T1_06_EN_RS-683x1024.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234780464" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/HK1399_CR776_T1_06_EN_RS-683x1024.jpg 683w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/HK1399_CR776_T1_06_EN_RS-200x300.jpg 200w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/HK1399_CR776_T1_06_EN_RS-768x1152.jpg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/HK1399_CR776_T1_06_EN_RS-1024x1536.jpg 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/HK1399_CR776_T1_06_EN_RS-1365x2048.jpg 1365w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/HK1399_CR776_T1_06_EN_RS.jpg 1600w" sizes="(max-width: 683px) 100vw, 683px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">The Infinite Blue</figcaption></figure>



All that glitters is not gold, but, in fact, diamonds of note. “The Infinite Blue” is a single-lot sale offering a captivating 11.28-carat fancy vivid blue diamond ring that has already made international headlines for its size, novelty, and richness of hue. Originating from the legendary Cullinan mine, it is one of the rarest stones to be set in a magnificent ring. In comparison, the 12-carat Blue Moon of Josephine (and sourced from the same mine) set an auction per-carat price record of US$4 million (HK$31.30 million) in 2015 at Sotheby’s.&nbsp;



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="1024" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/HK1358_CS4HY_T3_01_RS-1024x1024.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234780463" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/HK1358_CS4HY_T3_01_RS-1024x1024.jpg 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/HK1358_CS4HY_T3_01_RS-300x300.jpg 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/HK1358_CS4HY_T3_01_RS-150x150.jpg 150w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/HK1358_CS4HY_T3_01_RS-768x768.jpg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/HK1358_CS4HY_T3_01_RS-1536x1536.jpg 1536w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/HK1358_CS4HY_T3_01_RS-2048x2048.jpg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Cartier’s “Tutti Frutti” gem-set, diamond, and enamel bracelet</figcaption></figure>



For a splash of colour and a 1920s Art Deco vibe, there’s&nbsp;Cartier’s “Tutti Frutti” gem-set, diamond, and enamel bracelet. The detailing of the piece is a delicate balance of precious stones;&nbsp;sapphires, rubies, and emeralds are accented by diamonds, mounted in platinum.&nbsp;This is a timeless collector’s&nbsp;piece for any Cartier enthusiast.&nbsp;



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="683" height="1024" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/HK1399_CS39G_04_T1_EN_ST_RS-683x1024.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234780465" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/HK1399_CS39G_04_T1_EN_ST_RS-683x1024.jpg 683w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/HK1399_CS39G_04_T1_EN_ST_RS-200x300.jpg 200w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/HK1399_CS39G_04_T1_EN_ST_RS-768x1152.jpg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/HK1399_CS39G_04_T1_EN_ST_RS-1024x1536.jpg 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/HK1399_CS39G_04_T1_EN_ST_RS-1365x2048.jpg 1365w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/HK1399_CS39G_04_T1_EN_ST_RS.jpg 1600w" sizes="(max-width: 683px) 100vw, 683px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Jadeite Tianchi</figcaption></figure>



The Jadeite Tianchi, a demi-parure of jadeite cabochons and diamonds. For a consistent and perfect texture, the precious stones must have come from a single, impeccable source, making this piece truly exceptional for its rarity and quality. The name of the jewel alludes to “a transcendent scene akin to a goddess bestowing heavenly lakes upon the mortal realm.”&nbsp;



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Watches</h3>



A fine curation that includes 50 watches from important Asian collectors spanning some of the most renowned watchmakers, we’ve got our eyes on three particular timepieces.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="681" height="1024" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/HK1354_CSQ25_074_05_T1_IG_RS-681x1024.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234780466" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/HK1354_CSQ25_074_05_T1_IG_RS-681x1024.jpg 681w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/HK1354_CSQ25_074_05_T1_IG_RS-199x300.jpg 199w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/HK1354_CSQ25_074_05_T1_IG_RS-768x1156.jpg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/HK1354_CSQ25_074_05_T1_IG_RS-1021x1536.jpg 1021w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/HK1354_CSQ25_074_05_T1_IG_RS-1361x2048.jpg 1361w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/HK1354_CSQ25_074_05_T1_IG_RS.jpg 1595w" sizes="(max-width: 681px) 100vw, 681px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">RM 53-02</figcaption></figure>



While Richard Mille is no stranger to outlandish designs and boundary-pushing feats, the current watch is among one of their most daring pieces. A body sculpted almost purely from highly scratch-resistant blue sapphire crystal, each unit of the RM 53-02 requires more than 1,000 hours of craftsmanship to be shaped, polished, and finished to the glare-proof, sleek appearance that culminates in the final product—a process that no doubt solidifies the multi-curved blue&nbsp;sapphire case of the RM 53-02 as one of the most impressive to ever grace the fine horological scene. Combined with the double skeletonised baseplate, this blue&nbsp;sapphire case not only provides a lightweight canvas for the watch, but its transparency promises a truly three-dimensional experience that places the impressive cable-suspended tourbillon movement at the centre of attention. Of course, as a Richard Mille timepiece, the spectacle inside is also nothing short of awe-inspiring.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="683" height="1024" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/HK1354_cover_back_fullres_RS-683x1024.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234780467" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/HK1354_cover_back_fullres_RS-683x1024.jpg 683w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/HK1354_cover_back_fullres_RS-200x300.jpg 200w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/HK1354_cover_back_fullres_RS-768x1152.jpg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/HK1354_cover_back_fullres_RS-1024x1536.jpg 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/HK1354_cover_back_fullres_RS-1365x2048.jpg 1365w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/HK1354_cover_back_fullres_RS.jpg 1600w" sizes="(max-width: 683px) 100vw, 683px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Nishiki Star</figcaption></figure>



Fresh to the market, the Nishiki Star comes directly from the family of the original owner who received it as a present from his business partner sometime around 1955. In its original condition, the present lot offers a unique opportunity to acquire a fantastic example of this trophy reference, which stands as the pinnacle of vintage Rolex collecting when the world was finally free from war and restraints. Among vintage Rolex enthusiasts, reference 6062 has become one of the most sought after and acclaimed references. Debuting at Baselworld in 1950, and only five years after the introduction of the first Datejust, reference 6062 was Rolex’s first and unique reference with an automatic triple calendar with moon phases alongside the non-Oyster sister reference 8171, making it one of the most complicated models ever conceived by the Swiss brand. With a very short production timeline which started in 1950 and ceased in 1953, it is calculated that only around 350 examples were ever made, which increases their desirability.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="684" height="1024" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/HK1354_CS82W_053_05_T1_IG_RS-684x1024.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234780468" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/HK1354_CS82W_053_05_T1_IG_RS-684x1024.jpg 684w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/HK1354_CS82W_053_05_T1_IG_RS-200x300.jpg 200w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/HK1354_CS82W_053_05_T1_IG_RS-768x1151.jpg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/HK1354_CS82W_053_05_T1_IG_RS-1025x1536.jpg 1025w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/HK1354_CS82W_053_05_T1_IG_RS-1367x2048.jpg 1367w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/HK1354_CS82W_053_05_T1_IG_RS.jpg 1602w" sizes="(max-width: 684px) 100vw, 684px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Simplicity</figcaption></figure>



Philippe Dufour, arguably one of the most influential independent watchmakers in the world of horology, is a living legend renowned for his exceptional craftsmanship in hand-making watches from start to finish. Born in 1948 in Le Sentier, Vallée de Joux, Dufour comes from a family of watchmakers, with both his parents being part of the trade. After graduating from the Ecole d’Horlogerie in 1967, he began working at renowned watch manufacturers, but soon shifted his focus towards the restoration of antique and vintage timepieces. During this time, while restoring these watches, Dufour developed a deep fascination with the intricate complications concealed beneath their dials. Taking on his passion, Dufour began to create his own pieces. Following the successful of the Grande Sonnerie and Petite Sonnerie, the Simplicity was introduced in 2000. Fresh to the market and consigned by the original owner, this offering presents a highly uncommon opportunity for the public market, showcasing the master watchmaker’s exceptional precision, patience, and craftmanship.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Luxury Handbags</h3>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="678" height="1024" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/HKMRKT_CNN4R_T3_02_RS-678x1024.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234780469" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/HKMRKT_CNN4R_T3_02_RS-678x1024.jpg 678w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/HKMRKT_CNN4R_T3_02_RS-199x300.jpg 199w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/HKMRKT_CNN4R_T3_02_RS-768x1160.jpg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/HKMRKT_CNN4R_T3_02_RS-1017x1536.jpg 1017w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/HKMRKT_CNN4R_T3_02_RS-1356x2048.jpg 1356w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/HKMRKT_CNN4R_T3_02_RS.jpg 1589w" sizes="(max-width: 678px) 100vw, 678px" /></figure>



For fashionistas and purveyors of designer gear, it should come as no surprise that Hermès accessories—especially limited-edition pieces made of premium, rare, and exotic materials—are alternative investment items you can take to the bank (rather literally). If you would like to skip the two- to five-year waitlist, depending on the bag, then hail your hands high when the Hermès Malachite Matte Alligator Quelle Idole (2019) bag goes under the hammer. While the starting bid may be HK$700,000 for the limited-edition Sterling Silver Kellymorphose (2021), also from Hermès, we estimate the lucky bidder ought to expect to hand over a cool million.&nbsp;



But wait—there’s so much more. For motor enthusiasts, a 1989 Lamborghini Countach 25th Anniversary Edition supercar that has to be seen to be believed, and two exceptional fossil specimens: an incredibly rare juvenile Gryposaurus from the Late Cretaceous period (approximately 100 million to 66 million years ago), as well as a remarkably well-preserved skull of a woolly mammoth dating from the Pleistocene period (2.6 million–10,000 years ago), featuring&nbsp;a striking pair of vivianite-swirled tusks, lending them a unique blue colour.



Save the date—it’s a fabulous time to bear witness to or be a part of the winning bid.



<a rel="noreferrer noopener" href="http://sothebys.com/hk" data-type="link" data-id="sothebys.com/hk" target="_blank">Sotheby’s Hong Kong Autumn Sales</a>



2–9 October 2023



Exhibition



2–8 October 2023



Hall 1, Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre, 1 Expo Drive, Wan Chai



For more information and exhibition details, please visit <a rel="noreferrer noopener" href="http://sothebys.com/hk" data-type="link" data-id="sothebys.com/hk" target="_blank">sothebys.com/hk</a>.



All images courtesy of Sotheby’s.

Autumn Auction

Hong Kong

Important watches

jewellery

Sotheby's

Watches

Sotheby’s Gears Up For Its “50 Years in Asia” Autumn Auctions this October

The Golden Vines® Charity Online&nbsp;<a href="http://www.liquidicons.com/auction" rel="noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">Auction</a>&nbsp;is a unique opportunity for fine wine and rare spirit lovers to buy some rare jewels, direct from estate cellars, along with ‘money-can’t-buy experiences’ at the world’s leading estates for you and your guests.



Always wanted to gain entry to Petrus, the famed Pomerol estate? You can buy a very rare Imperial (six Litre) of 1996 Petrus with a VIP tour, tasting and vineyard visit at the estate, followed by a private lunch featuring historic back vintages hosted by owner, Jean Moueix, at his family estate in Libourne for eight guests. Finding it hard to gain access to top&nbsp;<a href="https://robbreport.co.uk/tag/burgundy/">Burgundy</a>&nbsp;estates? There are over 20 lots coming from Burgundy for you to choose from in the Côte de Beaune and Côte de Nuits.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1000" height="567" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/1-IMG_5188-scaled-HB.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234780374" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/1-IMG_5188-scaled-HB.webp 1000w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/1-IMG_5188-scaled-HB-300x170.webp 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/1-IMG_5188-scaled-HB-768x435.webp 768w" sizes="(max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Château Pétrus, Bordeaux&nbsp;</figcaption></figure>



<a href="https://robbreport.co.uk/tag/champagne/">Champagne</a>&nbsp;is very well represented by the likes of Krug, Salon, Charles Heidsieck, Boëhl &amp; Kroff and an incredible lot from Dom Pérignon that includes a unique magnum collection of P3 from the 1966, 1976 and 1985 vintages (see main picture), along with a lunch, hosted by Chef De Cave Vincent Chaperon and crafted by Chef Marco Fadiga, for six guests.



Always wanted to visit Harlan Estate in Napa Valley? You and seven guests can do so, and also come away with a rare Double Magnum (three litres) of 2016 Harlan Estate signed by Bill Harlan. Trying to get hold of Magnums (1.5 Litre) of Klaus Peter Keller’s G-Max Riesling? This is your chance, with a picnic lunch with the Keller family at the top of his Schubertslay Vineyard also part of the package.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1000" height="564" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/Jean-Yves-Bizot-of-Domaine-Bizot-1-1.jpg.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234780375" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/Jean-Yves-Bizot-of-Domaine-Bizot-1-1.jpg.webp 1000w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/Jean-Yves-Bizot-of-Domaine-Bizot-1-1.jpg-300x169.webp 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/Jean-Yves-Bizot-of-Domaine-Bizot-1-1.jpg-768x433.webp 768w" sizes="(max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Jean-Yves Bizot of Domaine Bizot, one of the more than 20 Burgundy lots on offer&nbsp; </figcaption></figure>



The Italian lots, in particular, are impressive and plentiful, with Tuscany and Barolo dominating the field with offerings from Sassicaia, Biondi Santi (see below), Il Marroneto, Ornellaia, Luca Roagna, Gaja, and many others.



And if Japanese sake is your thing, why not stay with six friends at the Kura (brewery) of super-premium IWA in Toyama Province hosted by the one and only Richard Geoffroy, the former Chef De Cave of Dom Pérignon and now owner of IWA. Elsewhere, there are plenty of mouth-watering, more affordable lots from every fine wine region on the planet.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1000" height="548" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/Nick-HB.jpg.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234780376" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/Nick-HB.jpg.webp 1000w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/Nick-HB.jpg-300x164.webp 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/Nick-HB.jpg-768x421.webp 768w" sizes="(max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Courtside seats at the NBA’s Brooklyn Nets are amongst the auction’s lots&nbsp;Allison Joseph</figcaption></figure>



Along with the fine wine lots, there are also some unique rare spirit offerings, including up to four bottles (of only 10 produced) of a uniquely blended old cognac from Maison Camus, created in homage to the late, great Gérard Basset (see bottom pic), with a private dinner with the owner, Cyril Camus, in his private apartment in Paris for every bottle purchased.



Or why not enjoy a private two-night stay for eight guests at the beautiful Glenmorangie House in Scotland while tasting fabulously rare cask bottlings?



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1000" height="567" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/3-Riserva-2016-6L_trasparente-HB.jpeg-.jpg.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234780377" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/3-Riserva-2016-6L_trasparente-HB.jpeg-.jpg.webp 1000w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/3-Riserva-2016-6L_trasparente-HB.jpeg-.jpg-300x170.webp 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/3-Riserva-2016-6L_trasparente-HB.jpeg-.jpg-768x435.webp 768w" sizes="(max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Biondi-Santi offerings are amongst those on offer&nbsp; </figcaption></figure>



There’s also a chance to bid on the Sotheby’s Golden Vines® Live Auction by&nbsp;<a rel="noreferrer noopener" href="http://www.liquidicons.com/auction" target="_blank">placing a maximum bid</a>&nbsp;before Friday 13th October including lots from VistaJet, Gucci, Boucheron, court-side seats at the NBA’s Brooklyn Nets and a host of Michelin-3 Star experiences from the likes of Massimo Bottura, Alain Ducasse and Mauro Colagreco.



Money raised from the auction goes to the Gérard Basset Foundation to fund educational programmes in the wine, spirits and hospitality sectors focused on diversity and inclusivity. The Foundation funds programmes in over 15 countries globally, in addition to its ground-breaking scholarship programmes co-sponsored by Taylor’s Port, Dom Pérignon, Artemis Domaines, Camus, The Brooklyn Nets NBA team, Michel Reybier Hospitality and Wine Owners.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1000" height="567" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/4-_STW7421-HB.jpg.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234780378" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/4-_STW7421-HB.jpg.webp 1000w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/4-_STW7421-HB.jpg-300x170.webp 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/4-_STW7421-HB.jpg-768x435.webp 768w" sizes="(max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">An exclusive bottling of rare cognac, created by Maison Camus in homage Gérard Basset&nbsp; </figcaption></figure>



The auction opens online from 1st October and closes at midnight on Sunday 15th October.&nbsp;<a href="https://crurated.com/" rel="noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">Curated</a>, the fine wine members’ auction site, is hosting the auction for the Gérard Basset Foundation using their proprietary software. If you want to bid, please use this&nbsp;<a href="http://www.liquidicons.com/auction" rel="noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">link</a>&nbsp;from 1st October.



Lewis Chester DipWSET is a London-based wine collector, member of the Académie du Champagne and Chevaliers du Tastevin, co-founder of Liquid Icons and, along with Sasha Lushnikov, co-founder of the Golden Vines® Awards.&nbsp;He is also Honorary President and Head of Fundraising at the Gérard Basset Foundation, which funds diversity &amp; inclusivity education programmes globally in the wine, spirits &amp; hospitality sectors.

Fine wine

rare spirit

The Golden Vines

The Golden Vines® Fine Wine, Rare Spirit & Experience Auction is Back

If you purchase an independently reviewed product or service through a link on our website, Robb Report may receive an affiliate commission.



A flock of avid bidders pushed the price of&nbsp;<a href="https://robbreport.com/tag/princess-diana/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Princess Diana</a>’s iconic&nbsp;<a rel="noreferrer noopener" href="https://robbreport.com/shelter/art-collectibles/princess-diana-black-sheep-sweater-auction-1234858747/" target="_blank">“Black Sheep” sweater</a>&nbsp;to record heights at Sotheby’s on Thursday.



The red knit, famously worn by Lady Di at a polo match in the 1980s, absolutely obliterated pre-<a href="https://robbreport.com/tag/auction/">auction</a>&nbsp;estimates to hammer down for US$1.1 million (HK$8,597,374.5) at a sale in New York. It is now the most valuable sweater ever sold at auction, comfortably eclipsing a&nbsp;<a rel="noreferrer noopener" href="https://robbreport.com.au/style/kurt-cobains-mtv-unplugged-cardigan-is-expected-to-fetch-more-than-290000-at-auction/" target="_blank">Kurt Cobain cardigan</a>&nbsp;that achieved US$334,000 (HK$2,610,694)in 2019. It also set an auction record for any piece of Diana’s clothing, surpassing her&nbsp;<a rel="noreferrer noopener" href="https://robbreport.com/lifestyle/news/purple-gown-princess-diana-1991-royal-sold-for-450000-at-auction-1234802140/" target="_blank">Victor Edelstein</a>&nbsp;evening dress that sold for $604,800 earlier this year.



The jumper, which was recently rediscovered by its makers Joanna Osborne and Sally Muir, attracted a total of 44 bids in its first market appearance. The sale culminated in a fierce 15-minute bidding battle that drove the price from US$190,000 (HK$1,484,990.6) up to US$1.1 million (HK$8.6 million). The final sum was 14 times the original high estimate of US$80,000 (HK$625,259).



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full is-resized"><img decoding="async" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/Diana_Sweater1.jpg.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234780206" style="width:651px" width="651" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/Diana_Sweater1.jpg.webp 1000w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/Diana_Sweater1.jpg-300x169.webp 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/Diana_Sweater1.jpg-768x432.webp 768w" sizes="(max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Princess Diana’s&nbsp;<a rel="noreferrer noopener" href="https://robbreport.com/shelter/art-collectibles/princess-diana-black-sheep-sweater-auction-1234858747/" target="_blank">“Black Sheep” sweater</a>&nbsp;sold for US$1.1 million. Courtesy of&nbsp;<a href="https://robbreport.com/tag/sothebys/">Sotheby’s</a></figcaption></figure>



The knit was one of the first pieces Osborne and Muir designed for Warm &amp; Wonderful and helped push the British label into the public eye. The original design was missing for decades but the duo found it earlier this year while searching for an old pattern in an attic.



“Since stumbling upon the sweater in March of this year, we have been reliving the fond memories of Princess Diana appearing on the front pages of every newspaper in 1981, wearing our very own sweater,” the designers said in a statement. “While we are forever indebted to her for the impact this had on our business, our deepest appreciation lies in the knowledge that she shared a unique connection to the black sheep design.”



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full is-resized"><img decoding="async" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/WarmWonderful.jpg-2.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234780207" style="width:650px" width="650" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/WarmWonderful.jpg-2.webp 1000w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/WarmWonderful.jpg-2-300x169.webp 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/WarmWonderful.jpg-2-768x432.webp 768w" sizes="(max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Warm &amp; Wonderful’s “Diana Edition” Sheep Sweater.</figcaption></figure>



Warm &amp; Wonderful stopped producing the sweater in 1994 but&nbsp;<a rel="noreferrer noopener" href="https://robbreport.com/style/fashion/princess-diana-sweater-warm-and-wonderful-1234642675/" target="_blank">resurrected the design</a>&nbsp;in 2020 with Jack Carlson of Rowing Blazers. The contemporary iteration can be purchased via Warm &amp; Wonderful or&nbsp;<a rel="noreferrer noopener" href="https://clicks.trx-hub.com/xid/pmc_0aaa4_robbreport?q=https%3A%2F%2Frowing-blazers.sjv.io%2Fc%2F256585%2F1392538%2F16616%3FsubId1%3DRR--%26u%3Dhttps%253A%252F%252Frowingblazers.com%252Fproducts%252Fmens-cotton-sheep-sweater%253Fvariant%253D41035115855906&amp;p=https%3A%2F%2Frobbreport.com%2Fstyle%2Fmenswear%2Fprincess-diana-black-sheep-sweater-auction-record-1234897755%2F&amp;ref=https%3A%2F%2Frobbreport.com%2Fstyle%2Fmenswear%2Fprincess-diana-black-sheep-sweater-auction-record-1234897755%2F&amp;event_type=click&amp;trx-iid=iid1695087057814efi" target="_blank">Rowing Blazers for US$248</a> (HK1,938). That’s a steal compared to US$1.1 million.



<a rel="noreferrer noopener" href="https://clicks.trx-hub.com/xid/pmc_0aaa4_robbreport?q=https%3A%2F%2Frowing-blazers.sjv.io%2Fc%2F256585%2F1392538%2F16616%3FsubId1%3DRR--%26u%3Dhttps%3A%2F%2Frowingblazers.com%2Fproducts%2Fmens-cotton-sheep-sweater%3Fvariant%3D41035115855906&amp;p=https%3A%2F%2Frobbreport.com%2Fstyle%2Fmenswear%2Fprincess-diana-black-sheep-sweater-auction-record-1234897755%2F&amp;ref=https%3A%2F%2Frobbreport.com%2Fstyle%2Fmenswear%2Fprincess-diana-black-sheep-sweater-auction-record-1234897755%2F&amp;event_type=click&amp;trx-iid=iid1695087057814efi" target="_blank">BUY NOW ON ROWING BLAZERS: US$248/HK$1938</a>

highest bid

millions

Princess Diana

Sweater

Princess Diana’s Iconic ‘Black Sheep’ Sweater Just Sold for a Record HK$8.6 Million at Auction

Among aficionados, Talisker is famously familiar to and adored by the palate; numerous gentlemen in the whiskey business, columnists, reviewers, writers, and buyers suggested that Talisker even might be their favourite, if not a top 10 pick—now that’s high praise.



“[It’s an] extremely easy drinking malt that has enough complexity to stay consistently interesting,” says Rob Crossan in&nbsp;Luxury London, while Chris Ellis at&nbsp;The Whisky Study&nbsp;wrote, “Talisker 10 was a surprising, fascinating, multi-layered whisky that kept me reaching for more.”&nbsp;Words of Whisky&nbsp;writer Thijs Klaverstijn reminds us that “Talisker is probably one of the best distilleries Scotland has,” and that’s a tall order indeed.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="683" height="1024" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Talisker-10-Year-OldRS-683x1024.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234781146" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Talisker-10-Year-OldRS-683x1024.jpg 683w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Talisker-10-Year-OldRS-200x300.jpg 200w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Talisker-10-Year-OldRS-768x1152.jpg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Talisker-10-Year-OldRS-1024x1536.jpg 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Talisker-10-Year-OldRS.jpg 1067w" sizes="(max-width: 683px) 100vw, 683px" /></figure>



Lucky us then, that there are coveted bottles within reach or heading to our shores this year, the most interesting among them the Talisker Wilder Seas, a limited-edition release inspired by ocean conservation and the preservation of marine ecosystems, and created in collaboration with Parley for the Seas, a global environmental organisation.&nbsp;



Finished in French oak casks seasoned with XO Cognac—a first for the brand—Talisker Wilder Seas offers fruity notes of sultanas and figs, and comes in a bottle made entirely of recycled glass. Talisker has really upped the ante by donating £3 (HK$28.5) to Parley for the Seas every time a bottle is sold in a bid to the organisation’s conservation projects.



At the “Talisker Wilderness Excursion” event, designed to capture Talisker’s “spirit of exploration and its connection with the nature,” guests were given a preview of not only the Talisker Wilder Seas, but also of two upcoming releases in Hong Kong—the wildly anticipated Talisker Port Ruighe and Talisker Storm. By-invitation-only VIP guests set sail along the coastlines of Hong Kong to sample the sea-inspired whiskies, aptly by the sea.



Talisker Port Ruighe—named after the main trading port on the Isle of Skye from which Scottish merchants traded with Portuguese for their port wine trade—undergoes a finish in port casks, which infuses the liquid with “succulent sweet notes of rich berry fruits” for smoky and savoury flavours. With savoury drinks gaining recognition as part of a growing trend hitting the local bar scene, many are appropriately excited about this new nectar.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="683" height="1024" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Talisker-10-Year-Old-Talisker-Storm-_-Talisker-Port-Ruighe-683x1024.jpeg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234781147" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Talisker-10-Year-Old-Talisker-Storm-_-Talisker-Port-Ruighe-683x1024.jpeg 683w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Talisker-10-Year-Old-Talisker-Storm-_-Talisker-Port-Ruighe-200x300.jpeg 200w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Talisker-10-Year-Old-Talisker-Storm-_-Talisker-Port-Ruighe-768x1152.jpeg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Talisker-10-Year-Old-Talisker-Storm-_-Talisker-Port-Ruighe-1024x1536.jpeg 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Talisker-10-Year-Old-Talisker-Storm-_-Talisker-Port-Ruighe.jpeg 1067w" sizes="(max-width: 683px) 100vw, 683px" /></figure>



Talisker Storm brings the intense characteristics of Talisker’s signature 10-year-old whisky to the forefront, creating what the brand calls a “more brooding and dark experience reminiscent of a storm at sea.” Notes of brine, wood, spice, and smoke, evocative of a beach bonfire, develop into a flavour profile with a hint of spiciness.Crisp winds and fierce storms prevail? If William Cowper’s The Castaway (“No voice divine the storm allayed/No light propitious shone”) comes to mind, you are not alone in sampling the newly launched expressions for eloquent inspiration. Find the new releases at a good stockist near you to find out what a whisky honouring ocean conservation tastes like.

Single Malt

Single Malt Whisky

Talisker

Whisky

Talisker Releases a Limited-Edition Single Malt Whisky For Ocean Conservation

If there’s one way to perfect your serve or forehand, it’s by training with one of the world’s best&nbsp;<a href="https://robbreport.com/tag/tennis/">tennis</a>&nbsp;players. You can do exactly that at the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.oneandonlyresorts.com/palmilla" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">One&amp;Only Palmilla</a>&nbsp;in&nbsp;<a href="https://robbreport.com/tag/los-cabos/">Los Cabos</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://robbreport.com/tag/mexico/">Mexico</a>&nbsp;this December.



The five-star resort has teamed up with LUX Tennis to create an&nbsp;<a rel="noreferrer noopener" href="https://www.oneandonlyresorts.com/palmilla/experiences/carlos-alcaraz" target="_blank">exclusive training camp</a>&nbsp;with tennis prodigy&nbsp;<a rel="noreferrer noopener" href="https://robbreport.com/style/watch-collector/carlos-alcaraz-us-open-rolex-daytona-1234747451/" target="_blank">Carlos Alcaraz</a>. The Spanish superstar, who is currently ranked World No. 2., has already notched four Masters 1000 titles, two Grand Slam victories, and 12 ATP Tour-level singles titles in his relatively short career. Billed as the future of men’s tennis, the 20-year-old has&nbsp;<a rel="noreferrer noopener" href="https://robbreport.com/style/watch-collector/carlos-alcaraz-rolex-daytona-wimbledon-1234869220/" target="_blank">defeated legends Novak Djokovic&nbsp;</a>and Rafael Nadal, too. He should have plenty of good pointers, then.



Alcaraz will take to the resort’s courts on Saturday, December 2 to play select hotel guests. You can book a spot in a group session or schedule a 30-minute private session. If you opt for the latter, additional guests can join for an extra fee but there can only be three players per private session. After sweating it out on the court, all players will be invited to an intimate meet and greet with Alcaraz at the resort’s picturesque Agua Bar. Refreshing cocktails will be served, of course.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full is-resized"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1000" height="563" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/One_Only_Palmilla2.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234780951" style="aspect-ratio:1.7857142857142858;width:650px;height:auto" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/One_Only_Palmilla2.webp 1000w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/One_Only_Palmilla2-300x169.webp 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/One_Only_Palmilla2-768x432.webp 768w" sizes="(max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">The tennis courts at the hotel.</figcaption></figure>



“I’m always thrilled at the opportunity to share my craft with others, so I very much look forward to hitting the courts for an incredible session at One&amp;Only Palmilla,” Alcaraz said in a statement. “Exploring my passion while discovering such a special place in Los Cabos, surrounded by blue skies and the azure sea, is a dream.”



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full is-resized"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1000" height="563" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/One_Only_Palmilla1.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234780952" style="aspect-ratio:1.7857142857142858;width:650px;height:auto" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/One_Only_Palmilla1.webp 1000w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/One_Only_Palmilla1-300x169.webp 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/One_Only_Palmilla1-768x432.webp 768w" sizes="(max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">One &amp; Only Palmilla.</figcaption></figure>



The experience is available only for hotel guests and can be added to any existing or new reservation at the time of booking. Oceanfront rooms start at US$1,240 (HK$9,668) per night, with daily breakfast, fitness classes, and a selection of water sports activities included. The hotel is also home to a <a rel="noreferrer noopener" href="https://www.oneandonlyresorts.com/palmilla/accommodation/villa-one" target="_blank">four-bedroom villa</a> if you’re feeling fancy.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full is-resized"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1000" height="563" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/One_Only_Palmilla3.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234780953" style="aspect-ratio:1.7857142857142858;width:650px;height:auto" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/One_Only_Palmilla3.webp 1000w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/One_Only_Palmilla3-300x169.webp 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/One_Only_Palmilla3-768x432.webp 768w" sizes="(max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">The resort’s pool.</figcaption></figure>



On top of that, the waterfront oasis is equipped with four restaurants and bars, an award-winning golf course, a lavish spa, and a pool that overlooks the Baja Peninsula.



You can contact the team at connectivity@oneandonlypalmilla.com&nbsp;to reserve a spot in Alcaraz’s training camp.

Carlos Alcaraz

One&Only Palmilla

Want to Improve Your Tennis Game? You Can Now Train With Carlos Alcaraz at a 5-Star Resort in Mexico

There was a time when renting was looked down upon. Now, some of the world’s wealthiest people are opting to&nbsp;<a rel="noreferrer noopener" href="https://robbreport.com/shelter/homes-for-sale/americans-renting-not-buying-1234818264/" target="_blank">lease instead of buy</a>.&nbsp;



According to a new report from Beauchamp Estates, rising interest rates and stamp duty charges have encouraged high-net-worth individuals to rethink their investment strategies. In the first half of 2023, multi-millionaires and billionaires spent roughly £15 million (or approximately US$18.9 million/HK$147.57 million) to rent high-end homes across&nbsp;<a href="https://robbreport.com/tag/london/">London</a>. As a result, rental prices in the British capital have increased by 8.8 percent annually and are now a whopping 30 percent above their pre-pandemic levels.&nbsp;



The super-rich aren’t just snapping up rentals in London Town, though. Competition in the super-prime rental market is increasing worldwide, with cosmopolitan locales including&nbsp;<a rel="noreferrer noopener" href="https://robbreport.com/shelter/home-design/fort-lauderdale-draws-home-buyers-1234797713/" target="_blank">Miami&nbsp;</a>and Los Angeles going head-to-head. “London is competing with other rival wealth hubs such as&nbsp;<a href="https://robbreport.com/tag/dubai/">Dubai</a>, the French Riviera, and Manhattan to attract multi-millionaires and billionaires,” explains&nbsp;Jeremy Gee, managing director at Beauchamp Estates. “Domestic issues, including interest rates, taxation, and state regulation, play a significant role in the decision-making process.”&nbsp;



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full is-resized"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1000" height="667" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/HanoverTerraceRental.jpg.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234781498" style="aspect-ratio:1.5;width:650px;height:auto" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/HanoverTerraceRental.jpg.webp 1000w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/HanoverTerraceRental.jpg-300x200.webp 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/HanoverTerraceRental.jpg-768x512.webp 768w" sizes="(max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Overseas millionaires and billionaires have spent roughly US$18.9 million (HK$147.59 million) to rent luxury homes in London. ALEX WINSHIP/BEAUCHAMP ESTATES</figcaption></figure>



In the U.S., sales of existing homes&nbsp;<a rel="noreferrer noopener" href="https://robbreport.com/shelter/homes-for-sale/luxury-market-booming-despite-slow-homes-sales-1235425876/" target="_blank">continue to slow</a>, making it clear that would-be homebuyers are still holding out in hopes of lower mortgage rates and greater inventory. Additionally, for those in the upper echelon, the properties may not be worth the investment right now.&nbsp;<a rel="noreferrer noopener" href="https://www.rentcafe.com/blog/rental-market/market-snapshots/millionaire-renter-households-triple-in-numbers/" target="_blank">RentCafe</a>&nbsp;found the number of affluent renters in the U.S.—those with annual incomes of over US$150,000(H$1,171,211)—grew by 82 percent between 2015 and 2020. Even more surprising, the number of U.S. renters with incomes in excess of US$1 million (HK$7.81 million) hit a record high of 3,381 in 2020.&nbsp;



In October 2023, the median rent in America’s 50 biggest metros was&nbsp;<a rel="noreferrer noopener" href="https://www.newsweek.com/cheaper-rent-buy-house-america-1837063" target="_blank">approximately US$1,750 (HK$13,666.68</a>)<a rel="noreferrer noopener" href="https://www.newsweek.com/cheaper-rent-buy-house-america-1837063" target="_blank"> per month</a>, a US$30 dip (HK$234) from last year. For context, the median rent across the U.S. hit an all-time high of US$2,054 (HK$16,041) in 2022. Thanks to new inventory and a boom in construction, the rental market seems to be cooling off for those with affordability concerns. However, renters will find that rental rates are still well above pre-pandemic levels.&nbsp;



“Luxury property in wealth hubs such as London, Manhattan, and the French Riviera remains a safe asset class, and as a result, these ultra-prime markets have shown remarkable resilience,” adds Gary Hersham, founding director of Beauchamp Estates. “In the super-prime lettings market, strong demand, soaring rents, and a lack of supply have been the key features of the market this year.”

Beauchamp Estates

billionaires

Housing

housing market

luxury homes

market

rental

More Billionaires Are Renting Homes Instead of Buying. Here’s Why.

What do a Michelin-starred chef and a legendary crystal-maker have in common?



More than meets the eye, as it happens. Both are French, although the chef hails from one of the southernmost parts of the country, and the heritage brand from the northeast is based hundreds of kilometres away. In terms of profession, one works in a sweltering kitchen of stainless steel, the other handcrafts its luxury transparent forms in an equally sweltering forge workshop. Ask the chef and the crystal-maker in question—that would be the inimitable Anne-Sophie Pic and the well-established Baccarat—and their response will be: Everything.



Clément Brunet-Monet, Asia-Pacific CEO of Baccarat, explains: “Our manufacture is like a kitchen; you have a team of people creating unique things from scratch from raw materials, all the way to the finished product, and it’s like a symphony. You have a guy doing the moulding and creating the crystal out of powder, and then you have a guy doing the blowing and another doing the finishing and so on—it’s a kitchen for crystal.”



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="683" height="1024" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Group-Shot-ASP-_-Clement-683x1024.jpeg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234781440" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Group-Shot-ASP-_-Clement-683x1024.jpeg 683w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Group-Shot-ASP-_-Clement-200x300.jpeg 200w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Group-Shot-ASP-_-Clement-768x1152.jpeg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Group-Shot-ASP-_-Clement-1024x1536.jpeg 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Group-Shot-ASP-_-Clement-1365x2048.jpeg 1365w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Group-Shot-ASP-_-Clement.jpeg 1600w" sizes="(max-width: 683px) 100vw, 683px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Clément Brunet-Monet, Asia-Pacific CEO of Baccarat, with Anne-Sophie Pic.</figcaption></figure>



And when a kitchen for food and a kitchen for crystal decide to meet, the result comes to life in the shape of Cristal Room, a three-way collaboration between the decorated French chef, the historical crystal brand, and local hospitality outfit Leading Nation, and this powerhouse trio is certainly formidable enough to tackle a project of this magnitude. Cristal Room, sitting atop Gloucester Tower in Landmark as one of the dining destinations of Forty-Five, is an ambitious opening that brings Anne-Sophie Pic’s award-winning cuisine to Hong Kong for the first time, in a space agreeably enhanced by Baccarat crystalware and décor.



“Baccarat’s vision is to be the most diverse brand, bringing light, pleasure, and joy to life; there are many parallels between the talent of Anne-Sophie Pic and our team,” Brunet-Monet continues. “We share the same values and philosophies; it’s a match waiting to happen.”



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="683" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/00-HL_KKOVEN_anne-sophie-PIC-34-officielle-copie-1024x683.jpeg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234781439" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/00-HL_KKOVEN_anne-sophie-PIC-34-officielle-copie-1024x683.jpeg 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/00-HL_KKOVEN_anne-sophie-PIC-34-officielle-copie-300x200.jpeg 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/00-HL_KKOVEN_anne-sophie-PIC-34-officielle-copie-768x512.jpeg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/00-HL_KKOVEN_anne-sophie-PIC-34-officielle-copie-1536x1024.jpeg 1536w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/00-HL_KKOVEN_anne-sophie-PIC-34-officielle-copie-2048x1365.jpeg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Anne-Sophie Pic’s restaurants have been awarded a total of 10 Michelin stars.</figcaption></figure>



Anne-Sophie Pic—the leading French chef whose six restaurants have been honoured with a cumulative 10 Michelin stars and the other half of the Cristal Room equation—concurs. “Hong Kong has been very attractive to me for a long time. I love Baccarat and I love Hong Kong so when Baccarat proposed this project to me, I could not refuse,” Pic tells Robb Report Hong Kong a few evenings ahead of the soft-opening of her new restaurant.



Pic descends from generations of chefs and restauranteurs, most notably her grandfather, André, and father, Jacques, who each embarked on a journey to gain (and regain) three Michelin stars for their hotel and restaurant, Maison Pic. After her father passed, Anne-Sophie, who initially had no inclination to become a chef—much like her father, who wanted to be a mechanic and kept out of the kitchen until fate intervened—embarked on a similar odyssey, taking over the family establishment and steering it back to three-starred glory. Whether Cristal Room in Hong Kong will gain her an eleventh nod by the Michelin inspectors remains to be seen, but the odds are stacked in her favour.



Given Pic’s strong culinary background, French cuisine is expected at Cristal Room, but the locale will prove to be influential too, she says, and the menu will grow to encompass more Asian influences as time goes on. “We will start with French cuisine, but I love Asian ingredients, teas, and aromatic herbs, so I wanted this first menu to include what I like the most. […] Some people say I cook like a perfumer,” she says, and discerning gastronomes will know it is exactly this unique, delicate quality that has earned Pic her global renown.



“We work based on the same qualities,” says Brunet-Monet. “Her cuisine is elegant and not too strong. She thinks it’s good match with what Baccarat is doing. It’s not traditional French cuisine, where it’s heavy food. ASP is more modern, more feminine.”



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="683" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/20230714-Cristal-Room-Hong-Kong-Le-Berlingot-©ASP-Sobacha-pasta-filled-with-Brie-de-Meaux-A.O.P-Koicha-matcha-oolong-infused-broth-©groupePIC-8--1024x683.jpeg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234781438" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/20230714-Cristal-Room-Hong-Kong-Le-Berlingot-©ASP-Sobacha-pasta-filled-with-Brie-de-Meaux-A.O.P-Koicha-matcha-oolong-infused-broth-©groupePIC-8--1024x683.jpeg 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/20230714-Cristal-Room-Hong-Kong-Le-Berlingot-©ASP-Sobacha-pasta-filled-with-Brie-de-Meaux-A.O.P-Koicha-matcha-oolong-infused-broth-©groupePIC-8--300x200.jpeg 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/20230714-Cristal-Room-Hong-Kong-Le-Berlingot-©ASP-Sobacha-pasta-filled-with-Brie-de-Meaux-A.O.P-Koicha-matcha-oolong-infused-broth-©groupePIC-8--768x512.jpeg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/20230714-Cristal-Room-Hong-Kong-Le-Berlingot-©ASP-Sobacha-pasta-filled-with-Brie-de-Meaux-A.O.P-Koicha-matcha-oolong-infused-broth-©groupePIC-8--1536x1024.jpeg 1536w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/20230714-Cristal-Room-Hong-Kong-Le-Berlingot-©ASP-Sobacha-pasta-filled-with-Brie-de-Meaux-A.O.P-Koicha-matcha-oolong-infused-broth-©groupePIC-8--2048x1365.jpeg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Le Berlingot—pasta triangles filled with aged Comté—is a signature Anne-Sophie Pic dish.</figcaption></figure>



No doubt wines form a key part of any French dining experience, but at Cristal Room, it’s a good time to observe a non-alcoholic habit—the alternative pairing option is a creative labour of love developed to painstaking perfection, and infuses different kinds of teas, coffee beans, and florals to create complex, palate-whetting concoctions. Yunnan peas, served with Kaviari Oscietra caviar, roasted geranium leaves, and gyokuro green tea, are subtly bolstered by a smoky geranium genmaicha Collins, while the aged-Comté-filled Le Berlingot pasta triangles—an ASP signature—swim in a mushroom consommé infused with coffee and nutty soba-cha buckwheat tea and get an additional kick from the mushroom latte.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="683" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/20230714-Cristal-Room-Hong-Kong-St-Marcellin-cheese-Madagascar-smoked-vanilla-frozen-mochi-©groupePIC-6--1024x683.jpeg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234781437" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/20230714-Cristal-Room-Hong-Kong-St-Marcellin-cheese-Madagascar-smoked-vanilla-frozen-mochi-©groupePIC-6--1024x683.jpeg 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/20230714-Cristal-Room-Hong-Kong-St-Marcellin-cheese-Madagascar-smoked-vanilla-frozen-mochi-©groupePIC-6--300x200.jpeg 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/20230714-Cristal-Room-Hong-Kong-St-Marcellin-cheese-Madagascar-smoked-vanilla-frozen-mochi-©groupePIC-6--768x512.jpeg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/20230714-Cristal-Room-Hong-Kong-St-Marcellin-cheese-Madagascar-smoked-vanilla-frozen-mochi-©groupePIC-6--1536x1024.jpeg 1536w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/20230714-Cristal-Room-Hong-Kong-St-Marcellin-cheese-Madagascar-smoked-vanilla-frozen-mochi-©groupePIC-6--2048x1365.jpeg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">St Marcellin cheese is wrapped in iced mochi skin with smoked Madagascan vanilla.</figcaption></figure>



A delicate white peony “martini” balances the equally dainty flavours of the wild seabass in a white Champagne sauce, topped with Petrossian Daurenki caviar—a Jacques Pic signature dish since 1971. St Marcellin cheese, wrapped in iced mochi skin with smoked Madagascan vanilla, goes smoothly with the oolong milk punch, and the millefeuille blanc, a neat, dainty, meticulously prepared dessert of Tahitian vanilla, jasmine jelly, and foam “clouds” of voatsiperifery pepper, perfectly embodies Pic’s precise cooking style.



“I want to leave an impression of freshness, elegance, tastefulness, and creativity. It’s not only a question of my cuisine, but also our capacity to make pairings with wine, non-alcoholic [drinks], and how to carry on the continuation of my cuisine,” says the chef.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="1024" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Cristal-Room-By-Anne-Sophie-Pic-night-view-1024x1024.jpeg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234781434" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Cristal-Room-By-Anne-Sophie-Pic-night-view-1024x1024.jpeg 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Cristal-Room-By-Anne-Sophie-Pic-night-view-300x300.jpeg 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Cristal-Room-By-Anne-Sophie-Pic-night-view-150x150.jpeg 150w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Cristal-Room-By-Anne-Sophie-Pic-night-view-768x768.jpeg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Cristal-Room-By-Anne-Sophie-Pic-night-view-1536x1536.jpeg 1536w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Cristal-Room-By-Anne-Sophie-Pic-night-view-2048x2048.jpeg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Paris-based Gilles et Boissier designed the restaurant interior.</figcaption></figure>



Cristal Room not only occupies a top-tier floor boasting fantastic views of Hong Kong Island and Victoria Harbour, but it also surprises with its intentionally avant-garde restaurant layout, where the kitchen is part of the dining room.



It’s a design choice that’s difficult to describe but makes complete sense when you see it in person. Pic and Brunet-Monet both emphasised “no counters, no barriers” for the kitchen, and you might imagine a conventional set-up where the action is visible through a large window that allows you to see into the next room. Not so; the kitchen islands—metallic, shiny, and laden under plates and pans—literally extend into the dining room; the change from utilitarian floor tiles to smooth cream carpet is all that signals the difference in purpose.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="683" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Cristal-Room-By-Anne-Sophie-Pic-open-kitchen-1024x683.jpeg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234781432" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Cristal-Room-By-Anne-Sophie-Pic-open-kitchen-1024x683.jpeg 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Cristal-Room-By-Anne-Sophie-Pic-open-kitchen-300x200.jpeg 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Cristal-Room-By-Anne-Sophie-Pic-open-kitchen-768x512.jpeg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Cristal-Room-By-Anne-Sophie-Pic-open-kitchen-1536x1024.jpeg 1536w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Cristal-Room-By-Anne-Sophie-Pic-open-kitchen-2048x1365.jpeg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Cristal Room’s kitchen extends into the dining room. </figcaption></figure>



It’s an inspired choice to break down the demarcation between kitchen and dining room, but the novel approach brings the audience closer, inviting them in as part of the experience and embracing the kitchen as a theatrical stage on which the chefs perform for enraptured diners. “We wanted to follow the concept of transparency because of Baccarat and the view, and because of the open space, there is no frontier between kitchen and dining room,” says Pic. Under her guidance and direction, the kitchen team carries out its tasks quietly and efficiently—no banging of pots and pans here, just structured, disciplined operation.



By bringing the chefs out of the back room and into the dining room proper, in full view of the guests, allows them to see the labour and expert coordination that goes into the meal with their own eyes, Brunet-Monet enthusiastically tells us over dinner. Designers Gilles et Boissier, whose vision has also touched a number of Baccarat retail concepts and the Baccarat hotel in New York, is close to the crystal brand and understands the goal. Baccarat chandeliers, displays, infinity mirrors, and reflective tiles illuminate the space.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="1024" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Cristal-Room-By-Anne-Sophie-Pic-Baccarat-chandelier-1024x1024.jpeg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234781433" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Cristal-Room-By-Anne-Sophie-Pic-Baccarat-chandelier-1024x1024.jpeg 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Cristal-Room-By-Anne-Sophie-Pic-Baccarat-chandelier-300x300.jpeg 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Cristal-Room-By-Anne-Sophie-Pic-Baccarat-chandelier-150x150.jpeg 150w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Cristal-Room-By-Anne-Sophie-Pic-Baccarat-chandelier-768x768.jpeg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Cristal-Room-By-Anne-Sophie-Pic-Baccarat-chandelier-1536x1536.jpeg 1536w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Cristal-Room-By-Anne-Sophie-Pic-Baccarat-chandelier-2048x2048.jpeg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Baccarat created the entrance chandelier to symbolise a coming-together of the four elements.</figcaption></figure>



“It was a challenge because [the designers] could not come to Hong Kong during Covid-19 so they had to do the design remotely,” Brunet-Monet explains, “but the space is so unique and strong that they have encapsulated the best of [Pic’s] personality and this amazing open kitchen. It’s more than an open kitchen—it’s a kitchen in the middle of the dining room.”



“You walk into this space where you expect the best cuisine, the best decoration, the best view, and the best location in Hong Kong. It all blends together to make it a unique space, and that’s what we look at—offering experiences beyond the brand and product,” he continues. “We want to go beyond expectations. It’s very important to surprise and offer the extra mile. We are turning 260 years old next year, so we strive to create new concepts.”



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="683" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/20230823-Hong-Kong-White-Millefeuille-Tahtitian-vanilla-cream-Jasmine-jelly-and-Voatsiperifery-cloud-carte-ouverture-©groupePIC-1024x683.jpeg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234781435" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/20230823-Hong-Kong-White-Millefeuille-Tahtitian-vanilla-cream-Jasmine-jelly-and-Voatsiperifery-cloud-carte-ouverture-©groupePIC-1024x683.jpeg 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/20230823-Hong-Kong-White-Millefeuille-Tahtitian-vanilla-cream-Jasmine-jelly-and-Voatsiperifery-cloud-carte-ouverture-©groupePIC-300x200.jpeg 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/20230823-Hong-Kong-White-Millefeuille-Tahtitian-vanilla-cream-Jasmine-jelly-and-Voatsiperifery-cloud-carte-ouverture-©groupePIC-768x512.jpeg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/20230823-Hong-Kong-White-Millefeuille-Tahtitian-vanilla-cream-Jasmine-jelly-and-Voatsiperifery-cloud-carte-ouverture-©groupePIC-1536x1024.jpeg 1536w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/20230823-Hong-Kong-White-Millefeuille-Tahtitian-vanilla-cream-Jasmine-jelly-and-Voatsiperifery-cloud-carte-ouverture-©groupePIC-2048x1365.jpeg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Cristal Room’s dessert course, the millefeuille blanc, perfectly embodies Pic’s precise cooking style.</figcaption></figure>



What about local competition in the French cuisine realm? “I don’t want to think [we are] against [anyone] or competing. I think we are just one restaurant offering something different; there is space for everyone, there are many French restaurants, and it’s important to have this challenge for the team, but we can all propose different styles,” Pic concludes.



<a href="https://cristalroombyasp.com/">Cristal Room by Anne-Sophie Pic</a>



43/F, Gloucester Tower, Landmark, 15 Queen’s Road Central, Central, Hong Kong



Tel: (+852) 3501 8580



All images courtesy of Cristal Room by Anne-Sophie Pic.

Cristal Room

Fine Dining

French

French Chef

Inside Cristal Room, 10-Michelin-Starred French Chef Anne-Sophie Pic’s Debut Restaurant in Hong Kong

It’s incredible what a small team of three people, plus a number of extremely motivated and talented part-time and unpaid professionals, can accomplish for the love of fine wine and the charitable cause of helping young people, from diverse backgrounds, to enter the wine, spirit and hospitality industry.



The 2023 Golden Vines®&nbsp;Awards were held in&nbsp;<a rel="noreferrer noopener" href="https://robbreport.co.uk/tag/paris/" target="_blank">Paris</a>&nbsp;from 13th-15th October (see video&nbsp;<a rel="noreferrer noopener" href="https://vimeo.com/881774448" target="_blank">here</a>). Significantly more than £5 million (HK$48.59 million) of fine wine and rare spirit were served at 24 events over the course of three days, including two Gala dinners, eight Masterclasses, seven fine wine lunches and six experiences, including a La Paulée BYO lunch where hundreds of fine wine bottles were brought and shared by the guests.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1000" height="575" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/HB_MAG5378.jpg-2.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234781230" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/HB_MAG5378.jpg-2.webp 1000w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/HB_MAG5378.jpg-2-300x173.webp 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/HB_MAG5378.jpg-2-768x442.webp 768w" sizes="(max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Palais Garnier at L’Opera Garnier&nbsp;</figcaption></figure>



More than 250 guests attended the two gala dinners, with each guest having access to VIP concierge services provided by Knightsbridge Circle. There was an equal number of production, catering, service staff and sommeliers required to host them. Thousands of Riedel glasses were required for the wine and spirit service, with a team of 23 sommeliers on each night impeccably serving more than 1,300 bottles in accordance with the temperature, as well as the opening and service instructions of each wine estate, under the guidance of wine director Clement Robert MS and Head Sommelier Marc Almert.



What has quickly become the world’s most important and spectacular fine wine event saw a sensational gathering of global epicureans, famous faces and protagonists from the most acclaimed wine, spirits and luxury brands globally at the beautiful Opéra Garnier for the&nbsp;<a rel="noreferrer noopener" href="https://vimeo.com/881774448" target="_blank">2023 Golden Vines® Awards Ceremony &amp; Dinner</a>. Fifty winemakers and distillers were present during the course of the weekend, whether as guests, donors of wines and spirit, winners of the awards or participants in the masterclasses, lunches and experiences.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="686" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Screenshot-2023-11-16-at-14.20.30.png-1024x686.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234781231" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Screenshot-2023-11-16-at-14.20.30.png-1024x686.webp 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Screenshot-2023-11-16-at-14.20.30.png-300x201.webp 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Screenshot-2023-11-16-at-14.20.30.png-768x515.webp 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Screenshot-2023-11-16-at-14.20.30.png-1536x1029.webp 1536w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Screenshot-2023-11-16-at-14.20.30.png.webp 1719w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">French chanteuse Louane&nbsp;</figcaption></figure>



Marking the finale of this year’s Golden Vines® Three-Day Fine Dining and Wines Experience from 13-15 October which also featured a charity gala on the Friday hosted by Ronan and Storm Keating in benefit of the Gérard Basset Foundation, the ‘Oscars-style’ 2023 Golden Vines® Awards Ceremony &amp; Dinner recognised the star performers of the fine wine &amp; spirits industry, as voted by 1,000 fine wine professionals from 120 countries with the results independently verified by Deloitte LLP.



French TV presenter Raphaële Marchal hosted the awards evening, organised by Liquid Icons –&nbsp;the fine wine research and content production company founded by myself, Lewis Chester – a fine wine &amp; spirits collector –&nbsp;as well as Sasha Lushnikov and the late, great sommelier Gérard Basset OBE MW MS.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="682" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Screenshot-2023-11-16-at-14.26.11.png-1024x682.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234781232" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Screenshot-2023-11-16-at-14.26.11.png-1024x682.webp 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Screenshot-2023-11-16-at-14.26.11.png-300x200.webp 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Screenshot-2023-11-16-at-14.26.11.png-768x511.webp 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Screenshot-2023-11-16-at-14.26.11.png-1536x1022.webp 1536w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Screenshot-2023-11-16-at-14.26.11.png.webp 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">A choir congregates on the Grand Staircase, Salon du Glacier at L’Opera Garnier&nbsp;</figcaption></figure>



Guests were treated to culinary creations from three Michelin-star chef Alain Ducasse and two Michelin-star Akrame Benallal, paired with exceptional wines including 2009 Dom Pérignon Rosé, 2004 Dom Pérignon P2, 2015 Château d’Yquem, 2013 Domaine Arnoux-Lachaux Echézeaux Grand Cru, 2007 Liber Pater, 2006 Istvan Szepsy 6-Puttonyos and an exclusive blend of old Camus Cognac. Headline entertainment was provided by rising star (she supported both Sam Smith and Ed Sheeran on their recent tours) and three-time BRIT nominee Cat Burns, as well as acclaimed French chanteuse Louane.



This year, three nominees became All-Star Winners in their category, having won the Award for the third time in as many years: Domaine de la Romanée Conti for The 2023 Robb Report Golden Vines® World’s Best Producer Award; Ridge Vineyards for The 2023 Golden Vines® Best Fine Wine Producer in the Americas Award; and Penfolds for The 2023 Golden Vines® Best Fine Wine Producer in the Rest of the World Award.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1000" height="572" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/HB-MARC9727_UY9ccRbV.jpg.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234781233" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/HB-MARC9727_UY9ccRbV.jpg.webp 1000w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/HB-MARC9727_UY9ccRbV.jpg-300x172.webp 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/HB-MARC9727_UY9ccRbV.jpg-768x439.webp 768w" sizes="(max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">A performance by Cat Burns&nbsp;Marc Piasecki</figcaption></figure>



Winners of other categories were: Weingut Egon Müller of Germany for The 2023 Golden Vines® Best Fine Wine Producer in Europe Award; The Sadie Family Wines of South Africa for The 2023 VistaJet Golden Vines® World’s Best Rising Star Award; Emidio Pepe of Italy for The 2023 Gucci Golden Vines® Sustainability Award; University of California Davis Department of Viticulture &amp; Enology for The 2023 Casa Ferreirinha Golden Vines® Innovation Award; and The Macallan for the newly inaugurated 2023 Golden Vines® World Best Rare Spirit Brand Award.&nbsp;Finally, The 2023 Golden Vines® Hall of Fame Award was awarded to the legendary Jancis Robinson OBE MW for her services to the wine industry.



Each winner received a trophy, housed in a specially-created and produced trunk by Golden Vines® sponsor Gucci, designed by British visual artist and Golden Vines® Creative Director Shantell Martin and crafted by Amorim Cork, featuring 2023 commissioned artwork by French artist Jonathan Bréchignac.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1000" height="577" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/HB-MARC9995_3s95y6HN.jpg.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234781234" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/HB-MARC9995_3s95y6HN.jpg.webp 1000w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/HB-MARC9995_3s95y6HN.jpg-300x173.webp 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/HB-MARC9995_3s95y6HN.jpg-768x443.webp 768w" sizes="(max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">The 2023 Golden Vines Awards Winners holding their trophies, at the Saturday evening gala&nbsp;Marc Piasecki</figcaption></figure>



As a formal handover at the end of the dinner, Alain Ducasse and Akrame Benellal presented the Golden Vines® Baton to Spanish three-Michelin Star chef Joan Roca of El Cellar de Can Roca, who will be curating the gastronomic menu at the 2024 Golden Vines® Awards in Madrid. The&nbsp;<a rel="noreferrer noopener" href="https://liquidicons.com/the-2024-golden-vines-awards-in-madrid-spain-waiting-list" target="_blank">waiting list</a>&nbsp;to purchase tickets for The 2024 Golden Vines® in Madrid, Spain is open now.



The previous night’s Dress To Party charity gala at Les Pavillons De Bercy saw the presentation of awards of a different kind—this time for diversity and inclusivity scholarships. Sachindi Rana from New Zealand, Eduardo Bolaños from the United States and Amrita Singh from Canada were officially awarded their 2023 Taylor’s Port Golden Vines® Diversity Scholarships worth £55,000 each.&nbsp;Arpine Manukyan from Armenia also received her 2023 Dom Pérignon Golden Vines® MW Scholarship including an incredible four-week paid internship at the Maison working alongside the winemaking team and an educational grant to undertake her Master of Wine (MW) qualification.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1000" height="572" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/HB-PIAS0252_4vzsRx3n.jpg.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234781235" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/HB-PIAS0252_4vzsRx3n.jpg.webp 1000w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/HB-PIAS0252_4vzsRx3n.jpg-300x172.webp 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/HB-PIAS0252_4vzsRx3n.jpg-768x439.webp 768w" sizes="(max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Clement Robert MS hands over the Golden Vines World’s Best Rare Spirit Brand Award to Quentin Dubois of The Macallan&nbsp;Marc Piasecki</figcaption></figure>



The Charity Gala featured the Sotheby’s Golden Vines Live Auction which, together with an online auction, raised just under $1 million for the Gérard Basset Foundation. The Foundation awards grants and scholarships focused around diversity and inclusion-related education programmes in the wine, spirit and hospitality sectors. Wines served included Krug Grande Cuvée, 2004 Krug Vintage, IWA Sake Reserves, 1995 Harlan Estate, and a specially crafted Taylor’s Port 50 year old Tawny produced for the event.



Alongside the two gala dinners, the three-day extravaganza featured eight masterclasses from the likes of Domaine Leflaive, Domaine Arnoux-Lachaux, Domaine Jean-Yves Bizot, Domaine Vincent Dancer, Dom Pérignon, Salon Champagne, Luca Roagna, Ornellaia, Biondi-Santi, Il Marroneto, Emidio Pepe and many others. There were also eight lunches to attend, hosted by Château Latour, Château Cos d’Estournel, Krug, Boërl &amp; Kroff Champagne, Egon Müller, Domaine Thibault Liger-Belair, Domaine Duroché, Domaine Bernard Moreau and others. Finally, there were six ‘money can’t buy’ experiences on offer including day trips to Dom Pérignon and Maison Ruinart, a cognac and cigars event hosted by Cyril Camus at his private Parisian apartment, and a La Paulée BYO lunch at the Bulgari Hotel sponsored by Crurated. In all, more than 50 winemakers took part in this year’s Golden Vines® Awards.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1000" height="569" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/HB-Ronan-and-Storm-Keating-hosting-Golden-Vines-Dress-to-Party-Gala-DinnerParis.jpg.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234781236" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/HB-Ronan-and-Storm-Keating-hosting-Golden-Vines-Dress-to-Party-Gala-DinnerParis.jpg.webp 1000w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/HB-Ronan-and-Storm-Keating-hosting-Golden-Vines-Dress-to-Party-Gala-DinnerParis.jpg-300x171.webp 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/HB-Ronan-and-Storm-Keating-hosting-Golden-Vines-Dress-to-Party-Gala-DinnerParis.jpg-768x437.webp 768w" sizes="(max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Ronan and Storm Keating&nbsp;</figcaption></figure>



The 2024 Golden Vines® Awards will take place in Madrid in late October 2024. As with 2021 London, 2022 Florence and 2023 Paris, Madrid will feature many of the world’s best fine wines and rare spirits over three days, including a Charity Gala and the Awards Gala.&nbsp;



The waiting list to purchase tickets for The 2024 Golden Vines® in Madrid, Spain is&nbsp;<a rel="noreferrer noopener" href="https://liquidicons.com/the-2024-golden-vines-awards-in-madrid-spain-waiting-list" target="_blank">open now</a>.



<a href="https://robbreport.co.uk/author/by-liquid-icons-in-partnership-with-robb-report/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">BY LIQUID ICONS, IN PARTNERSHIP WITH ROBB REPORT</a>&nbsp;

2023 Golden Vines Awards

Golden Vines

Liquid Icons

Paris

Wine

wine awards

Behind the Scenes at the World’s Greatest Wine Event

It’s hard to pinpoint when artisanal coffee and boutique blends came in vogue, beyond the popular vernacular thrown about by baristas the world over. We’ve now read so much about the sourcing and planting of the hitherto humble bean; somehow, the way sommeliers expound on vine and terroir has trickled into the morning java. But even among those fine blends, an&nbsp;<a rel="noreferrer noopener" href="https://www.illy.com/en-ww/home" target="_blank">illy</a>&nbsp;is no average cuppa joe.



The origin story of illy can be traced back to Italy’s coffee capital, Trieste. illycaffè, a family-owned company, was born in the port city on the shores of the Adriatic. As the boats and ships of the world anchored ashore, they created a de facto multicultural marketplace where tastes and flavours from around the globe mixed and mingled.&nbsp;



Since 1933, only the finest coffee beans, comprising the top one percent of the best of the best Arabica, have been funnelled and filtered to the compounds of illy. Featuring a closely guarded nine-ingredient, 100-percent Arabica blend, every single cup has a consistency, flavour profile, and smooth taste that epicureans love. Only the most flawless of beans can create the aroma and rich blend of this portentous warm blend, lasting from the first taste to the last sip.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="683" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/classico-2560-x-1706-01-1024x683.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234781151" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/classico-2560-x-1706-01-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/classico-2560-x-1706-01-300x200.jpg 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/classico-2560-x-1706-01-768x512.jpg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/classico-2560-x-1706-01-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/classico-2560-x-1706-01-2048x1365.jpg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>



Within illy’s global sourcing menu, there is, in fact, a proliferation of delectable options to choose from, depending on your discerning taste of single-origin coffee. illy’s Arabica selection can be meticulously traced back to the highest-quality coffee from Brazil, Colombia, Ethiopia, Guatemala, and India,&nbsp;among other coffee capitals in Africa and South America, all famed for their distinguished roasts.



Do you prefer a sweet and subtle blend, with a distinctive acidic bite derived from the notes of citrus and red berries? Then Colombian coffee is for you. Or consider, perhaps, the Ethiopian mix, with a delicate floral note of jasmine, orange blossom, and chamomile. Some prefer the coffee beans grown in Brazil, known as “the foundation of espresso blends,” for a heady shot to ignite the senses. Designed by experts in the illy research laboratories who have developed the aromatic notes and distinctive flavours of beans from each country of origin, illy celebrates their purest forms, respective properties, and roasting curves. A world of taste is encapsulated within each tin. You may be buying an Italian brand, but one with a worldwide perspective and responsible sourcing.&nbsp;



The significance of responsible sourcing is rooted deep within the illy culture, which is one of several reasons why the company has chosen to engage with farms with regenerative agriculture, such as those from Cerrado Mineiro, a Brazilian region renowned for some of the finest coffee-bean crops in the world. The certified Regenagri cropping practice approaches the land as a natural and autonomous ecosystem. Soil resources are carefully guarded to improve their fertility and biodiversity, restoring the health of the land without releasing carbon dioxide into the atmosphere. This farm-to-table traceability is a key component in illy’s sustainable approach to business and being.&nbsp;



As with all things Italian and couture, it comes down to sourcing, technical know-how, savvy study, and curation, all of which those in the caffeinated corridors of the illy headquarters in Trieste have carefully studied and developed over the years. Since its foundation,&nbsp;illy has directed its strategies towards a&nbsp;sustainable business model, carrying with it a sense of responsibility from the get-go. As the company’s official page states: “For us, coffee is only good when it’s good for everyone.”



It’s this steadfast commitment that has encouraged the corporation to adopt the status of&nbsp;“Benefit Company.”&nbsp;In 2021, illy became the first Italian coffee company to obtain the international&nbsp;B Corp certification, which measures a company’s social and environmental impact to certify it as a leader in a forward-thinking economy.&nbsp;



Over the past decades, illy has managed its entire coffee supply-chain with an eye on sustainability. Whether it’s farmed by a bean specialist in Brazil or Ethiopia illy knows the golden-brown liquid is a sacred elixir, and that morning cup is precious to many.&nbsp;Knowing the significance of that first cup, illy has opened&nbsp;caffès&nbsp;in more than 30 countries, offering a range of home-dedicated products like the Iperespresso capsule coffee machine, which allows you to have your own illycaffè experience at home (or the office).



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="683" height="1024" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/illy_cafe-683x1024.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234781154" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/illy_cafe-683x1024.jpg 683w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/illy_cafe-200x300.jpg 200w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/illy_cafe-768x1152.jpg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/illy_cafe-1024x1536.jpg 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/illy_cafe.jpg 1067w" sizes="(max-width: 683px) 100vw, 683px" /></figure>



The iconic illy logo, designed by Jams Rosenquist, adds an artistic chapter to the rich history of a brand that is all about art and beauty, colour and coffee—founding principles that have established the illy cup as a collector’s item. Since 1992, over 100 international artists have joined the roster of designers who have created a unique illy cup with a signature look of their own. Famed artist Matteo Thun designed the iconic illy cup, creating a blank canvas that has, since then, allowed contemporary artists from around the globe to put brush to cup. Three decades on, coffee connoisseurs look forward to a new release every year.



So the next time you try a steaming cup of a smooth illy blend, relish in the guiltless pleasure of the finest, most responsible sip in town.&nbsp;



For more information, visit&nbsp;<a rel="noreferrer noopener" href="https://hk.kerrycoffee.com/" target="_blank">hk.kerrycoffee.com</a>.

coffee

coffee capsules

illy

illy coffee

Italian

Italian brew

Finest Blend: How illy Has Cultivated Coffee Into an Art Form

This&nbsp;<a href="https://robbreport.com/tag/porsche/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Porsche</a>&nbsp;collection gives the Hamptons White Party a run for its money.



In early December, RM Sotheby’s will auction off a mysterious trove of nearly 60 white sports cars from the German marque. Titled the&nbsp;<a href="https://rmsothebys.com/en/home/lots/wc23#?SortBy=Default&amp;SearchTerm=&amp;Category=All%20Categories&amp;IncludeWithdrawnLots&amp;Auction=WC23&amp;OfferStatus=All%20Availability&amp;AuctionYear=&amp;Model=Model&amp;Make=Make&amp;FeaturedOnly=false&amp;StillForSaleOnly=false&amp;Collection=All%20Lots&amp;TagLine=All%20Lots&amp;WithoutReserveOnly=false&amp;Day=All%20Days&amp;TimedOnly=false&amp;OneHubLinkOnly=false&amp;AuctionedStatus=All%20Lots&amp;page=1&amp;pageSize=40" rel="noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">White Collection</a>, the monochrome rides were compiled over a decade and feature some of the finest Porsches of all time, including six that could sell for seven-figure sums.



The identity of the collection’s owner may be unknown—along with their exact location—but one thing’s for sure: They love a white hue. There are a couple of exceptions, but nearly all the 56 cars set to hit the block were factory-issued in unique shades of the color. If that wasn’t enough, the building where the vehicles are stored has white walls and is filled entirely with white furniture.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full is-resized"><img decoding="async" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/2015-Porsche-918-Weissach-Spyder1405518_.jpg.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234780526" style="width:649px" width="649" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/2015-Porsche-918-Weissach-Spyder1405518_.jpg.webp 1000w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/2015-Porsche-918-Weissach-Spyder1405518_.jpg-300x169.webp 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/2015-Porsche-918-Weissach-Spyder1405518_.jpg-768x432.webp 768w" sizes="(max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">2015 Porsche 918 ‘Weissach’ SpyderDarin Schnabel RM Sotheby’s</figcaption></figure>



The highlight of the collection is an entirely unique example of the company’s modern-day hypercar, the&nbsp;<a rel="noreferrer noopener" href="https://rmsothebys.com/en/auctions/wc23/the-white-collection/lots/r0062-2015-porsche-918-weissach-spyder/1397676" target="_blank">2015 918 Spyder</a>. Outfitted with the weight-saving Weissach package, the 875 hp speed machine is finished in paint-to-sample Grand Prix White. It’s expected to fetch between US$2.5 million (HK$19.58 million) to US$3 million (HK$23.49 million).



There are plenty of 911s to choose from, too. Chief among these is a&nbsp;<a rel="noreferrer noopener" href="https://rmsothebys.com/en/auctions/wc23/the-white-collection/lots/r0045-1993-porsche-911-carrera-rsr-38/1397658" target="_blank">1993 911 Carrera RSR 3.8</a>&nbsp;also finished in Grand Prix White over a stunning red-and-white leather interior. It’s likely to sell for between US$2 million (HK$15.66 million) and US$2.5 million (HK$19.58 million). Other 911s of note include a hand-built, air-cooled&nbsp;<a rel="noreferrer noopener" href="https://rmsothebys.com/en/auctions/wc23/the-white-collection/lots/r0050-1997-porsche-911-gt2/1397618" target="_blank">1997 911 GT2</a>&nbsp;(expected to sell for between US$2 million (HK$15.66 million) and US$2.2 million/HK$17.23 million)) and a barely driven 1994 911 Turbo S X85 ‘Flat-Nose’ (US$1.5 million/HK$11.75 million to US$2 million/HK$15.66 million). There’s also a 1973 911 Carrera 2.7 Lightweight with red graphics and wheels and a&nbsp;<a rel="noreferrer noopener" href="https://rmsothebys.com/en/auctions/wc23/the-white-collection/lots/r0020-1973-porsche-911-carrera-rs-27-touring/1397578" target="_blank">1973 911 Carrera 2.7 Touring</a>&nbsp;with blue graphics and wheels (US$900,000/HK$7.05 million to US$1.2 million/HK$9.40 million). If none of those catch your eye, there are&nbsp;<a rel="noreferrer noopener" href="https://rmsothebys.com/en/auctions/wc23/the-white-collection/lots/r0011-1959-porsche-diesel-junior-108-s-tractor/1397590" target="_blank">two red</a>&nbsp;<a rel="noreferrer noopener" href="https://rmsothebys.com/en/auctions/wc23/the-white-collection/lots/r0012-1962-porsche-diesel-junior-109-tractor/1397588" target="_blank">Porsche tractors</a>, along with over 500 museum-grade accessories, parts, tools, and literature.



The White Collection is set to be auctioned off over two days in Houston, Texas, on Friday, December 1, and Saturday, December 2. Whether you’re in the market for something special or something unusual, there should be a car for every type of Porsche collector.



Click&nbsp;<a rel="noreferrer noopener" href="https://robbreport.com/motors/cars/gallery/photos-white-collection-porsches-1235250464" target="_blank">here</a>&nbsp;for more photos of the White Collection Porsches.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full is-resized"><img decoding="async" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/whitecollectiongallery.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234780527" style="width:650px" width="650" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/whitecollectiongallery.jpg 1000w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/whitecollectiongallery-300x169.jpg 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/whitecollectiongallery-768x432.jpg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Darin Schnabel/RM Sotheby’s</figcaption></figure>

Porsche

RM Sotheby's

The White Collection

A Bonkers Collection of White Porsches Is Heading to Auction This December

Trademark or no, don’t expect&nbsp;<a href="https://robbreport.com/tag/bmw/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">BMW</a>&nbsp;to release an iM3 anytime soon—if ever.



No less than the head of the German marque’s performance division, Frank van Meel, quashed the rumors that the company is planning to release an EV under the name,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.topgear.com/car-news/electric/bmw-m-boss-rejects-im3-speculation-we-would-never-use-i-m" rel="noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">according to Top Gear</a>. That doesn’t mean that the company won’t release a battery-powered M car, though.



Earlier this fall, and&nbsp;<a rel="noreferrer noopener" href="https://www.autocar.co.uk/car-news/new-cars/bmw-im3" target="_blank">again this week</a>, reports circulated that BMW had trademarked the name iM3 with the E.U.’s intellectual property office. Because the company uses a lowercase i at the beginning of a car’s name to indicate that it’s an EV—i.e. the electric 3 Series is known as the i3—this led some to believe the filing was the sign that the&nbsp;<a href="https://robbreport.com/motors/cars/bmw-m3-edition-50-jahre-bmw-m-exclusive-colors-1234681392/">M3</a>&nbsp;would be the next to get the treatment. Unfortunately, that doesn’t appear to be the case.



“No, that will be a Mission Impossible!,” the executive told the website at its annual award show on Tuesday. “Actually, we would never use an i on an M, even though it would be electric.”



BMW’s M cars have evolved greatly over the four-and-a-half decades since the M1 made its debut. Their engines have grown and gained turbochargers, but the naming convention hasn’t changed. Van Meel explained that this is because the M at the beginning of the name is about more than what’s under the hood, it’s about what the car, itself, is capable of doing.



“So if we would ever do something like that, it will always be called an M without an i. Because that’s just the technology, and M is not about technology,” he said. “It’s about a promise, it’s about motorsports, it’s about emotion. It’s not about the drivetrain.”



While the iM3 isn’t in the works, van Meel’s comments make clear that an electric version of the high-performance model is a very real possibility. Unfortunately, it’s not clear when one it will arrive. The executive admitted that the company has thought about making battery-powered M3—”It’s in our hearts, it’s in our minds,” he said—but refused to confirm whether one is currently in the works. Still, considering his openness to the idea, and&nbsp;<a href="https://robbreport.com/motors/cars/next-generation-bmw-m3-electric-powertrain-option-1234896970/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">recent comments made by board member Frank Weber</a>, it sounds as if it’s just a matter of time.

BMW Wants to Make an Electric Performance Car But It Will Never Be Called iM3

<a href="https://robbreport.com/tag/genesis/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Genesis</a>&nbsp;is ready to broaden the&nbsp;<a href="https://robbreport.com/motors/cars/genesis-gv70-crossover-suv-unveiling-1234578118/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">GV70</a>’s horizons.



The Korean luxury marque has teamed up with Delta Geländesport&nbsp;for a concept called Project Overland that is based on its mid-size crossover. The unique build was designed specifically for off-roading fun and represents an an enticing peak of what could be in store for the model down the road.



Genesis couldn’t have picked a better partner for the GV70 Project Overland. Delta has been taking already well-regarded 4x4s like the Mercedes-Benz G-Class and Jeep Wrangler Rubicon and turning them into even more capable off-roaders for four decades. Of course, unlike most of the vehicles the German tuner upgrades, the GV70 is better known for its looks than what it can do off the beaten path.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full is-resized"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1000" height="563" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/projectoverland02.jpg.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234781513" style="aspect-ratio:1.7857142857142858;width:648px;height:auto" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/projectoverland02.jpg.webp 1000w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/projectoverland02.jpg-300x169.webp 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/projectoverland02.jpg-768x432.webp 768w" sizes="(max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">BJOERN KLEMME DELTA GELÄNDESPORT</figcaption></figure>



The Project Overland may look like your standard GV70 at a glance, but closer inspection reveals that it’s been equipped with all manner of off-roading goodies. The most important of these is a revised suspension that sees the vehicle’s ride height boosted by nearly two inches. &nbsp;The body has also widened by the same amount, outfitted with extended wheel arches, and had Baja-style lights integrated. The roof, meanwhile, features PIAA lights and a rack to hold all the outdoor gear you can’t fit inside the vehicle. Rounding out the modifications are a set of 18-inch black Classic B Rugged wheels wrapped in Continental all-terrain tires (the vehicle will be on display at the tiremaker’s booth at the Essen Motor Show in early December).



There’s no mention as to whether the concept comes equipped with either an internal combustion engine or an all-electric powertrain. The gas-powered version of the vehicle comes with either a turbocharged 2.5-liter inline-four that produces 300 hp or a twin-turbo 3.5-liter V-6 that produces 375 hp. The&nbsp;<a href="https://robbreport.com/motors/cars/first-drive-2023-genesis-electrified-gv70-1234821677/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Electrified GV70</a>, meanwhile, has a dual-motor setup that produces a combined 429 hp. Regardless of the powertrain, all versions of the GV70 offer all-wheel drive.



It’s important to remember that as alluring as the Project Overland may be, it is just a one-off at this point. Neither Genesis nor Delta have said a thing about the vehicle eventually being made available as a variant. That said, with a refreshed GV70 reportedly on the way, it could be a sign that the automaker is interested in exploring the potential of the crossover like never before.

Genesis

jeep

This Gorgeous One-of-a-Kind Genesis Crossover Is an Off-Road Beast

Behold the all-new McLaren 750S, a lighter, faster, and sharper iteration from the the legendary marque that brought us the iconic 720S supercar. In a digital exclusive,&nbsp;Robb Report Hong Kong’s publisher, Tak Man, takes the new release on a test drive, and shows us exactly why the 750S is an esteemed nominee in the upcoming edition of Best of the Best, the annual luxury compendium by&nbsp;Robb Report Hong Kong.



For his first ride, he flew all the way to&nbsp;Estoril Circuit (in&nbsp;Portugal) weeks before anyone else in Hong Kong had a first look at the new dream machine. When the wheels touched down in Hong Kong, he went for another spin around the city’s outskirts.



In a programme of fine-tuning, the 750S has gained 30 horsepower and 30 Nm torque and shed 30 kilogrammes to improve performance, cornering response, reliability, and daily usability. Driving enjoyment is a key part of the experience, and a lighter exhaust as well as lightweight wheels set the machine in motion.



While the 750S shares a lot of components with its 720S predecessor, the new model continues to push the boundaries of sports cars. As the lightest and most powerful series from McLaren rolls into the region, we believe the 750S is here to slay.



<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
<iframe loading="lazy" title="Test Drive: Introducing the 2024 McLaren 750S" width="500" height="281" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/0z_Ea7z92cw?feature=oembed" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe>
</div></figure>



Video by Chris Yau.

McLaren

McLaren 750S

supercarm

Test Drive

Video

Test Drive: Introducing the 2024 McLaren 750S

Steve Weitman, president of Wynn <a href="https://robbreport.com/tag/las-vegas/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Las Vegas</a>, is the king of understatement. “We had already started a concours, so when F1 was announced, we figured marrying the concours and F1 would be a good idea,” he said in a recent conversation with Robb Report. “Coming into this, we wanted to be the epicenter.”



By “this”, Weitman is referring to the huge circus that came to town for last weekend’s <a href="https://robbreport.com/tag/las-vegas-grand-prix/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Las Vegas Grand Prix</a>, and his hotel and casino was very much at the heart of proceedings.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full is-resized"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1000" height="563" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/2-w-CONCOURS2023_1111_134251-8610_ALIVECOVERAGE.jpg.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234781416" style="aspect-ratio:1.7857142857142858;width:648px;height:auto" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/2-w-CONCOURS2023_1111_134251-8610_ALIVECOVERAGE.jpg.webp 1000w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/2-w-CONCOURS2023_1111_134251-8610_ALIVECOVERAGE.jpg-300x169.webp 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/2-w-CONCOURS2023_1111_134251-8610_ALIVECOVERAGE.jpg-768x432.webp 768w" sizes="(max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">A scene from the 2023 <a href="https://robbreport.com/tag/concours-at-wynn-las-vegas/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Concours at Wynn Las Vegas</a>. WYNN LAS VEGAS</figcaption></figure>



Bookending the 10-day automotive spectacular was the second annual <a rel="noreferrer noopener" href="https://robbreport.com/lifestyle/news/recap-2023-wynn-concours-delegance-1235413231/" target="_blank">Concours at Wynn Las Vegas</a>—sporting a field of 280 entrants ranging from classic tourers to bygone-era race cars—and the highly anticipated <a rel="noreferrer noopener" href="https://robbreport.com/motors/cars/2023-las-vegas-grand-prix-recap-1235422343/" target="_blank">Las Vegas Grand Prix</a>, the penultimate race of the 2023 <a href="https://robbreport.com/tag/formula-1/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Formula 1</a> season. The latter marked the first time the GP returned to Nevada since the Caesars Palace Grand Prix in 1982.



On Saturday, November 11, the 2023 Concours at <a href="https://robbreport.com/tag/wynn-las-vegas/">Wynn Las Vegas</a> comprised both an exhibition—including hypercars, alternative-fuel examples, concept cars, and vehicles with cultural relevance—and a contest of show cars judged across 13 classes. The two standouts were a 1935 Duesenberg SJ and a 1969 Lamborghini Miura S awarded Best of Show for prewar and postwar categories, respectively. Robb Report’s own Dream Machine award went to a 1925 “Round Door” Rolls-Royce Phantom I Aerodynamic Coupe.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full is-resized"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1000" height="563" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/3-w-CONCOURS2023_1111_144219-5188_ALIVECOVERAGE.jpg.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234781409" style="aspect-ratio:1.7857142857142858;width:648px;height:auto" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/3-w-CONCOURS2023_1111_144219-5188_ALIVECOVERAGE.jpg.webp 1000w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/3-w-CONCOURS2023_1111_144219-5188_ALIVECOVERAGE.jpg-300x169.webp 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/3-w-CONCOURS2023_1111_144219-5188_ALIVECOVERAGE.jpg-768x432.webp 768w" sizes="(max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">The 1935 Duesenberg SJ named Best of Show among the prewar cars. WYNN LAS VEGAS</figcaption></figure>



The following morning was kicked off by Wynn’s Tour d’Elegance, an out-and-back parade along the Strip that was led by police. The 50-plus cars making up the procession were fronted by Joel Laub’s 1929 Bentley Speed Six, immediately followed by the new and all-electric&nbsp;<a rel="noreferrer noopener" href="https://robbreport.com/motors/cars/rolls-royce-spectre-arrival-1234864752/" target="_blank">Rolls-Royce Spectre</a>—the two vehicles providing a striking juxtaposition of British performance and refinement, then and now.



Also part of the multiday programming was&nbsp;Robb Report’s House of Robb activation at Wynn’s Villa Fairway 100. For six days, the location became the nexus of connoisseurship, from classic Rolex watches to fashion consultations from the team at Mr. Porter to samples of cuisine from the likes of Chef Wolfgang Puck and some of the region’s most promising new culinary stars. Interspersed were moderated panels that varied in topic from tech to style trends to collectible cars.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full is-resized"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1000" height="563" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/13-w-Screen-Shot-2023-11-22-at-5.26.03-AM.jpg.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234781410" style="aspect-ratio:1.7857142857142858;width:651px;height:auto" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/13-w-Screen-Shot-2023-11-22-at-5.26.03-AM.jpg.webp 1000w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/13-w-Screen-Shot-2023-11-22-at-5.26.03-AM.jpg-300x169.webp 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/13-w-Screen-Shot-2023-11-22-at-5.26.03-AM.jpg-768x432.webp 768w" sizes="(max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Car collectors Bruce Meyer and Merle Mullin share their insights on automotive trends at the House of Robb in Wynn Fairway Villa 100. ADAM KILBOURN</figcaption></figure>



The discussions culminated on November 16 with the Excellence in Motion panel featuring Greg Maffei, CEO of Liberty Media (the company that owns Formula 1), Renee Wilm, the CEO of the Las Vegas Grand Prix, and 2009 Formula 1 champion&nbsp;<a rel="noreferrer noopener" href="https://robbreport.com/motors/cars/formula-1-jensen-button-las-vegas-grand-prix-house-of-robb-1235418811/" target="_blank">Jenson Button</a>—all providing insight on what to expect from the impending race and what it took to have it finally come to fruition.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full is-resized"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1000" height="563" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/5-w-GettyImages-1794073736-1.jpg.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234781411" style="aspect-ratio:1.7857142857142858;width:648px;height:auto" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/5-w-GettyImages-1794073736-1.jpg.webp 1000w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/5-w-GettyImages-1794073736-1.jpg-300x169.webp 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/5-w-GettyImages-1794073736-1.jpg-768x432.webp 768w" sizes="(max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Stars from the PGA and Formula 1 compete in the Netflix Cup at the Wynn Golf Club. DAVID BECKER/GETTY IMAGES FOR NETFLIX</figcaption></figure>



Prior to lining up on the starting grid, though, racers Alex Albon, Pierre Gasly, Carlos Sainz, and Lando Norris were in for a different type of drive altogether as they teamed up with PGA heavy hitters Justin Thomas, Collin Morikawa, Max Homa, and Rickie Fowler for the Netflix Cup at the Wynn Golf Club. The first live sporting event streamed by Netflix saw Sainz and Thomas victorious, though more than a few panned the whole affair as an awkward marketing ploy…&nbsp;



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full is-resized"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1000" height="563" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/10-w-GettyImages-1794071993.jpg.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234781412" style="aspect-ratio:1.7857142857142858;width:650px;height:auto" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/10-w-GettyImages-1794071993.jpg.webp 1000w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/10-w-GettyImages-1794071993.jpg-300x169.webp 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/10-w-GettyImages-1794071993.jpg-768x432.webp 768w" sizes="(max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Justin Thomas and Carlos Sainz take the Netflix Cup. DAVID BECKER/GETTY IMAGES FOR NETFLIX</figcaption></figure>



A head-to-head competition of another sort took place on November 17, as auction house <a rel="noreferrer noopener" href="https://robbreport.com/motors/cars/exclusive-2021-mclaren-elva-at-rm-sothebys-f1-las-vegas-grand-prix-auction-1234896033/" target="_blank">RM Sotheby’s</a> gave collectors a chance to take a shot at a few exclusive automobiles showcased at Wynn’s 1,600-seat Awakening theater. Hosted by James Cordon, the sale saw a 2021 McLaren Elva fetch US$1,517,500 (HK$11,824,436), a 2002 Mercedes-Benz CLK GTR Roadster hammer at US$1,765,000 (HK$13,752,562), and Lewis Hamilton’s 2013 Mercedes-AMG Petronas F1 W04 crossing the block for a tasty US$18,815,000 (HK$146,603,093).



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full is-resized"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1000" height="563" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/11-w-RM-SOTHEBYS-OFFICIAL-AUCTION-NOV.-17-2-Lewis-Hamiltons-Mercedes-AMG-Petronas-Racecar-.jpg.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234781413" style="aspect-ratio:1.7857142857142858;width:648px;height:auto" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/11-w-RM-SOTHEBYS-OFFICIAL-AUCTION-NOV.-17-2-Lewis-Hamiltons-Mercedes-AMG-Petronas-Racecar-.jpg.webp 1000w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/11-w-RM-SOTHEBYS-OFFICIAL-AUCTION-NOV.-17-2-Lewis-Hamiltons-Mercedes-AMG-Petronas-Racecar-.jpg-300x169.webp 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/11-w-RM-SOTHEBYS-OFFICIAL-AUCTION-NOV.-17-2-Lewis-Hamiltons-Mercedes-AMG-Petronas-Racecar-.jpg-768x432.webp 768w" sizes="(max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Lewis Hamilton’s 2013 Mercedes-AMG Petronas F1 W04 sold for US$18.815 million through RM Sotheby’s at Wynn Las Vegas. WYNN LAS VEGAS</figcaption></figure>



Elsewhere during the week was a performance by Jay Leno, a preview screening of the Michael Mann film Ferrari (starring Adam Driver, Penélope Cruz, and Patrick Dempsey), and concerts at the Wynn’s XS nightclub that included the Chainsmokers, Swedish House Mafia, and Calvin Harris among others.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full is-resized"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1000" height="562" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/13-w-GettyImages-1799291302.jpg.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234781414" style="aspect-ratio:1.7857142857142858;width:649px;height:auto" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/13-w-GettyImages-1799291302.jpg.webp 1000w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/13-w-GettyImages-1799291302.jpg-300x169.webp 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/13-w-GettyImages-1799291302.jpg-768x432.webp 768w" sizes="(max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Patrick Dempsey addresses audience at screening of Ferrari, starring Adam Driver. GREG DOHERTY/GETTY IMAGES FOR NEON</figcaption></figure>



Yet the main headliner was Formula 1 and a race that had a global audience unlike any before it. For&nbsp;that&nbsp;act, the Wynn had a variety of accommodation-and-race options. Premier among these were ones that included entry to the Paddock Club, the elite Wynn Grid Club, and a million-dollar deal that availed the buyer to the most rarified access while a three-bedroom duplex (with butler service) served as base camp.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full is-resized"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1000" height="563" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/15-w-GettyImages-1788815499.jpg.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234781415" style="aspect-ratio:1.7857142857142858;width:649px;height:auto" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/15-w-GettyImages-1788815499.jpg.webp 1000w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/15-w-GettyImages-1788815499.jpg-300x169.webp 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/15-w-GettyImages-1788815499.jpg-768x432.webp 768w" sizes="(max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Ferrari’s Carlos Sainz pushes the pace during the third practice session of the Las Vegas Grand Prix. JIM WATSON/AFP VIA GETTY IMAGES</figcaption></figure>



With Formula 1 committing to the city for the next 10 years, Wynn Las Vegas is already looking to tweak its program, having learned a few lessons this time around. “We’re going to decouple [the concours and the F1] for next year,” says Weitman of plans to put some breathing space between the two events. “It’s too much for guests.” Excess in Vegas? Who would’ve guessed?

auto

automotive

cars

classic

Classic Cars

Concours at Wynn Las Vegas

performance

Steve Weitman

Wynn Las Vegas

How Wynn’s Ultimate Race Week Lived Up to Its Name

Independent watchmakers

Rare watches

Watch

watchmaker

Rebels on the Rise: How Independent Watchmakers Became the Reluctant Rockstars of High Horology

It’s hard to pinpoint when exactly we noticed the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cartier.hk/en-hk/collections/watches/all-watches/tank-all.html?utm_source=robb_report&amp;utm_medium=DIS&amp;utm_campaign=A-CARHK-HK-PROL-WAT-TANK_FRANCAISE-FY24-TANK--TANK_M2ID0174237&amp;utm_content=A-AW-CPM-PR-DIR-LXA--3RD_PPS-ROBB_REPORT-ROS-MUL-OTHER-OTHERS-CUSTOM-EN-TRACK-CC-ROBB_REPORTS_ARTICLE" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Cartier Tank</a>&nbsp;in the public consciousness. Its striking simplicity doesn’t scream for attention, and yet, there it is, on Princess Diana’s wrist.&nbsp;The Crown&nbsp;has revived her image on social media platforms across the board and you can find the iconic Roman numerals standing out on a square-cut wristwatch, beaming below her reluctant smile. It’s the only accessory repeated often by fashion icon Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis; her Cartier Tank is unmissable in vintage black and white photographs. Clark Gable himself had such a unique one—the numerals on his dial were Arabic, not Roman.&nbsp;



If Gable’s watch ever makes it to an auction house, the estimate figure will most likely reach in the tens of millions. After all, as we go to publish, at Christie’s, there’s a rare and unusual 18-carat-gold asymmetrical Cartier wristwatch with the “Crash” deploying clasp that experts predict will go for HK$1.6 million. Only 400 of them exist in the world.&nbsp;



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/PUWA11044_STILL-LIFE-CINEMA_GOLD-SM-DIA_1920x1080-1024x576.jpeg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234780912" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/PUWA11044_STILL-LIFE-CINEMA_GOLD-SM-DIA_1920x1080-1024x576.jpeg 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/PUWA11044_STILL-LIFE-CINEMA_GOLD-SM-DIA_1920x1080-300x169.jpeg 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/PUWA11044_STILL-LIFE-CINEMA_GOLD-SM-DIA_1920x1080-768x432.jpeg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/PUWA11044_STILL-LIFE-CINEMA_GOLD-SM-DIA_1920x1080-1536x864.jpeg 1536w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/PUWA11044_STILL-LIFE-CINEMA_GOLD-SM-DIA_1920x1080-2048x1152.jpeg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>



What makes the watch so special that there’s a feverish bid for it, even after a century? Its allure charms the likes of classic stars as well as contemporary. Angelina Jolie, in a press conference, waves her manicured hand, anchored with the visible and obvious elegance of a Cartier Tank.&nbsp;



There’s a magnetic aura to the Cartier Tank that attracts men and women of note to acquire this rare accessory. Fashion is transient, but style is forever, which perhaps best explains why a simple wristwatch that made its debut in Paris in 1917 is as relevant today as it was over 100 years ago. Not many accessories can boast this level of endurance and relevance. The design is not that complex as it is meticulous—its simplicity is its hallmark, as there are only four main principles governing Cartier’s entire creative approach: “the purity of the line, the accuracy of the shape, the precision of the proportions, and precious details.”&nbsp;



Even within a lengthy catalogue of Cartier watches, there’s the Tank signature that’s unmistakable: “inspired by the design of a military tank as seen from above, the watch is governed by this clear graphic blueprint: the brancards for the tracks, the case for the turret. From this formal association was born a new and founding principle: the design of the case horns would be integrated into the bracelet’s extension without any break in rhythm.”



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="683" height="1024" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/cartier_crash-683x1024.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234780913" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/cartier_crash-683x1024.jpg 683w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/cartier_crash-200x300.jpg 200w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/cartier_crash-768x1152.jpg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/cartier_crash-1024x1536.jpg 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/cartier_crash-1365x2048.jpg 1365w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/cartier_crash.jpg 1600w" sizes="(max-width: 683px) 100vw, 683px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Cartier Crash Watch, case in 18K rose gold set with 150 brilliant-cut diamonds and beaded crown set with a brilliant-cut diamond, totalling 2.16 carats. Bracelet in 18K rose gold, limited edition of 267 individually numbered timepieces.&nbsp;</figcaption></figure>



If Cartier’s Crash watch seems an aberration from its rich symmetrical dossier, that’s deliberate. Francesca Cartier Brickell, founder Jean-Jacques Cartier’s granddaughter, wrote in her book,&nbsp;The Cartiers: The Untold Story of the Family Behind the Jewellery Empire, that the novel Tank edition was a symbol of its time: 1960s London. Jean-Jacques Cartier created a response “to the spirit of the age. In fact, the Crash watch was the idea of Jean-Jacques Cartier and designer Rupert Emmerson who, together, after many attempts, eventually came up with a final design. The appearance of the resulting watch, named the ‘Crash,’ was in complete contrast to the straight lines of the traditional Tank and oval.” Rapper Jay Z has been seen wearing the Crash, and so has Emmy-winning screenwriter Dan Levy. Something a little askew and different, this particular model seems to align with those who think outside the box.&nbsp;



As you’ve seen in&nbsp;<a rel="noreferrer noopener" href="https://robbreport.hk/categories/Watches/auction" target="_blank">Auction</a>&nbsp;and in our&nbsp;<a rel="noreferrer noopener" href="https://robbreport.hk/categories/Watches/all" target="_blank">Watch</a>&nbsp;section, timepieces studded with glistening diamonds, encased in exotic skins, and bearing complex horology surpass the seven-figure mark easily—but is there a greater symbol of status, power, and style than the classic Tank? Legend has it, only 1,803 Cartier Tanks were made, making the luxury watch a neighbour’s envy and an owner’s pride. It’s so rare to find some of limited-edition pieces that collectors comb the world over and get alerts from auction houses in case someone is willing to part with their precious cargo.



<figure class="wp-block-gallery has-nested-images columns-default is-cropped wp-block-gallery-1 is-layout-flex wp-block-gallery-is-layout-flex">
<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="436" height="1024" data-id="1234780919" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/16-Tank-Louis-Cartier-watch-large-model-436x1024.jpeg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234780919" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/16-Tank-Louis-Cartier-watch-large-model-436x1024.jpeg 436w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/16-Tank-Louis-Cartier-watch-large-model-128x300.jpeg 128w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/16-Tank-Louis-Cartier-watch-large-model-654x1536.jpeg 654w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/16-Tank-Louis-Cartier-watch-large-model.jpeg 681w" sizes="(max-width: 436px) 100vw, 436px" /></figure>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="468" height="1024" data-id="1234780917" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/14-Tank-Louis-Cartier-watch-large-model-468x1024.jpeg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234780917" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/14-Tank-Louis-Cartier-watch-large-model-468x1024.jpeg 468w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/14-Tank-Louis-Cartier-watch-large-model-137x300.jpeg 137w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/14-Tank-Louis-Cartier-watch-large-model-703x1536.jpeg 703w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/14-Tank-Louis-Cartier-watch-large-model.jpeg 732w" sizes="(max-width: 468px) 100vw, 468px" /></figure>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="436" height="1024" data-id="1234780918" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/17-Tank-Louis-Cartier-watch-large-model-436x1024.jpeg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234780918" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/17-Tank-Louis-Cartier-watch-large-model-436x1024.jpeg 436w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/17-Tank-Louis-Cartier-watch-large-model-128x300.jpeg 128w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/17-Tank-Louis-Cartier-watch-large-model-654x1536.jpeg 654w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/17-Tank-Louis-Cartier-watch-large-model.jpeg 681w" sizes="(max-width: 436px) 100vw, 436px" /></figure>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="419" height="1024" data-id="1234780922" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/10-Tank-Americaine-watch-large-model-419x1024.jpeg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234780922" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/10-Tank-Americaine-watch-large-model-419x1024.jpeg 419w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/10-Tank-Americaine-watch-large-model-123x300.jpeg 123w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/10-Tank-Americaine-watch-large-model-628x1536.jpeg 628w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/10-Tank-Americaine-watch-large-model.jpeg 654w" sizes="(max-width: 419px) 100vw, 419px" /></figure>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="355" height="1024" data-id="1234780920" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/9-Tank-Americaine-watch-small-model-355x1024.jpeg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234780920" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/9-Tank-Americaine-watch-small-model-355x1024.jpeg 355w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/9-Tank-Americaine-watch-small-model-104x300.jpeg 104w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/9-Tank-Americaine-watch-small-model-532x1536.jpeg 532w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/9-Tank-Americaine-watch-small-model.jpeg 554w" sizes="(max-width: 355px) 100vw, 355px" /></figure>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="468" height="1024" data-id="1234780921" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/15-Tank-Louis-Cartier-watch-large-model-468x1024.jpeg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234780921" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/15-Tank-Louis-Cartier-watch-large-model-468x1024.jpeg 468w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/15-Tank-Louis-Cartier-watch-large-model-137x300.jpeg 137w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/15-Tank-Louis-Cartier-watch-large-model-703x1536.jpeg 703w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/15-Tank-Louis-Cartier-watch-large-model.jpeg 732w" sizes="(max-width: 468px) 100vw, 468px" /></figure>
</figure>



So what’s the unifying thread among collectors and buyers, from Muhammed Ali to Andy Warhol, Steve McQueen, Michelle Obama, and Taika Waititi? Global fame and eternal style, apparently. For as many models of the Cartier Tank that there are, there’s a corresponding celebrity—be it in the field of art, culture, politics, royalty, theatre, or film. Stars of all calibre have shown great affinity to the Tank Louis Cartier (1922) or the Tank Française (1996), and the Tank Américaine (1988)&nbsp;is a modern statement, showcasing that each piece is not only an emblem of its era, but the mood and well-being of its wearer.&nbsp;



Funnily enough, when we asked a CEO why he picked a 1970s Cartier Tank in 18-carat yellow gold, he said, “It was my father’s and he gave it to me after graduation. Not only is it a gift reminding me of my accomplishments, but since he passed, it’s my connection to him. It may be on sale for HK$40,000 or HK$4 million, but to me, it’s priceless.”



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Thanksgiving is all about reflecting on blessings and practicing gratitude. Well, in the spirit of the holiday,&nbsp;Robb Report&nbsp;is truly thankful for the wristwatches celebs sported on the streets this past week.



A-listers descended upon Sin City for the inaugural Las Vegas F1 Grand Prix wearing some spectacular wrist candy. First and foremost, Rihanna challenged the horological status quo by wearing a US$400,000 (HK$3,114,900) <a href="https://robbreport.com/style/watch-collector/rihanna-jacob-co-watch-anklet-1235422936/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Jacob &amp; Co. ankle watch</a> to a Puma event. F1 drivers Lewis Hamilton and George Russell stepped out wearing watches from IWC, as did James Marsden and Aaron Paul. Even world-famous chef Gordon Ramsay was spotted with a Rolex GMT II on his wrist.



From F1 racing to noteworthy gents, actor Joseph Quinn and singer John Legend hit the&nbsp;GQ&nbsp;Men of the Year Awards wearing timepieces by Hublot and Rolex, respectively.



Below are the best celeb watch flexes of the week.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">James Marsden: IWC Portugieser Automatic 40</h3>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1000" height="563" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Marsden_IWC.jpg.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234781367" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Marsden_IWC.jpg.webp 1000w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Marsden_IWC.jpg-300x169.webp 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Marsden_IWC.jpg-768x432.webp 768w" sizes="(max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Photo : IWC/Getty</figcaption></figure>



James Marsden’s wrist candy for the Las Vegas Grand Prix was pretty and pink. The Hollywood star wore an <a href="https://www.iwc.com/en/watch-collections/portugieser/iw358313-portugieser-automatic-40.html">IWC Portugieser Automatic 40</a> to an exclusive event organized by the Swiss watchmaker and Mercedes-AMG. (Marsden also happens to be an ambassador for IWC.) Reference IW358313 is characterized by a 40 mm stainless steel case, a striking salmon dial, and a black alligator leather strap. It’ll set you back US$7,450 (HK$58,023).



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Joseph Quinn: Hublot Square Bang Unico </h3>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1000" height="563" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Quinn_Hublot.jpg.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234781369" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Quinn_Hublot.jpg.webp 1000w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Quinn_Hublot.jpg-300x169.webp 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Quinn_Hublot.jpg-768x432.webp 768w" sizes="(max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px" /></figure>



The dress code for this year’s GQ Men of the Year Awards was “modern red carpet,” and British actor Joseph Quinn absolutely nailed it. The Stranger Things star wore a <a href="https://www.hublot.com/en-us/watches/square-bang/square-bang-unico-titanium-42-mm">Hublot Square Bang Unico</a> watch to the ceremony at the Royal Opera House in central London. Launched in September 2022, the US$23,100 (HK$179,911) timepiece features a 42 mm titanium case and a sapphire dial that highlights the skeletonized chronograph movement. It is the perfect piece for a modern red carpet. We only wish the Brit knew how to model it.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">John Legend: Rolex Cosmograph Daytona</h3>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1000" height="563" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Legend_Rolex.jpg.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234781371" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Legend_Rolex.jpg.webp 1000w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Legend_Rolex.jpg-300x169.webp 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Legend_Rolex.jpg-768x432.webp 768w" sizes="(max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Photo : Getty/Rolex</figcaption></figure>



John Legend’s choice of wristwatch for this year’s GQ Men Of The Year was, well, legendary. The “All of Me” singer turned up to Bar Marmont wearing a very rare Rolex Cosmograph Daytona. Reference 116576TBR features a platinum case, a diamond-crusted dial and bezel, and striking blue subdials. Such examples routinely fetch six figures on the second-hand market. It’s a glitzy piece for an equally glitzy occasion.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Rihanna: Jacob &amp; Co. Watch Anklet</h3>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1000" height="563" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Ri_Jacob.jpg.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234781372" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Ri_Jacob.jpg.webp 1000w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Ri_Jacob.jpg-300x169.webp 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Ri_Jacob.jpg-768x432.webp 768w" sizes="(max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Photo : Dennis Leopold/Jacob &amp; Co.</figcaption></figure>



Rihanna and her long-time friend Jacob Arabo of Jacob &amp; Co. teamed up to create a dazzling <a href="https://robbreport.com/style/watch-collector/rihanna-jacob-co-watch-anklet-1235422936/">watch anklet</a> for the Las Vegas Grand Prix. The bespoke white-gold design is set with more than 70 carats of diamonds and priced at a cool US$400,000 (HK$3,115,338). It’s not the first time RiRi has rocked a <a href="https://robbreport.com/lifestyle/news/rihanna-watch-choker-from-jacob-and-co-1234858527/">timepiece</a> in an unconventional way, either. The Barbadian previously wore a Jacob &amp; Co. watch as a necklace. Watch belt next?



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Gordon Ramsay: Rolex GMT-Master II</h3>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1000" height="563" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Ramsay_Rolex.jpg.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234781373" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Ramsay_Rolex.jpg.webp 1000w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Ramsay_Rolex.jpg-300x169.webp 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Ramsay_Rolex.jpg-768x432.webp 768w" sizes="(max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Photo : Rolex/Getty</figcaption></figure>



Gordon Ramsay rocked a cool riff on a Rolex classic at the first Las Vegas Grand Prix. Launched in 2013, the GMT-Master II is affectionately nicknamed the “Batman” due to the blue and black color pairing Cerachrom ceramic bezel. Reference 116710BLNR also features a 40 mm Oystersteel case, a handsome black dial, and a Jubilee bracelet. The chef’s piece will set you back US$10,900 (HK$84,892).



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Aaron Paul: IWC Portugieser Perpetual Calendar.</h3>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1000" height="563" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Paul_IWC.jpg.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234781374" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Paul_IWC.jpg.webp 1000w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Paul_IWC.jpg-300x169.webp 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Paul_IWC.jpg-768x432.webp 768w" sizes="(max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Photo : IWC/Getty</figcaption></figure>



Aaron Paul’s wrist candy for IWC’s event with Mercedes-AMG is as complex as the plot of Breaking Bad. The gold <a href="https://www.iwc.com/en/watch-collections/portugieser/iw503302-portugieser-perpetual-calendar.html">Portugieser</a> (Reference IW503302) is equipped with a perpetual calendar complication that is mechanically programmed for 577 years. The 44 mm watch features three subdials, a date window, and a moon phase display. All that watchmaking comes at a cost, of course. The piece is priced at US$34,900 (HK$271,813).



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Lewis Hamilton and George Russell: IWC and Mercedes-AMG Performance Chronographs</h3>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1000" height="563" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Hamilton_IWC.jpg.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234781375" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Hamilton_IWC.jpg.webp 1000w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Hamilton_IWC.jpg-300x169.webp 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Hamilton_IWC.jpg-768x432.webp 768w" sizes="(max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px" /></figure>



In honor of the Las Vegas Grand Prix, Mercedes-AMG and IWC launched <a rel="noreferrer noopener" href="https://robbreport.com/style/watch-collector/iwc-pilots-watch-performance-chronograph-1235408295/" target="_blank">two new performance chronographs</a>. Fittingly, Lewis Hamilton and George Russell, who are currently competing in Formula One with the three-pointed star, showed them off in the leadup to the race. Both models feature a modern 41 mm build and house the IWC-manufactured 69385 caliber movement. Hamilton’s US$13,700 (HK$106,699) example (<a rel="noreferrer noopener" href="https://www.iwc.com/en/watch-collections/pilot-watches/iw388307-pilot_s-watch-performance-chronograph-41-mercedes-amg-p.html" target="_blank">Reference IW388307</a>) has a sleek Ceratanium construction and sporty turquoise accents, while Russell’s US$12,600 (HK$98,132) model (<a rel="noreferrer noopener" href="https://www.iwc.com/en/watch-collections/pilot-watches/iw388305-pilot_s-watch-performance-chronograph-41-amg.html" target="_blank">Reference IW388305</a>) is made from titanium. Both watches measure 41 mm and house the in-house 69385 caliber movement.

James Marsden

lewis hamilton

Rolex

The 7 Best Watches of the Week, From Lewis Hamilton’s IWC to Gordon Ramsay’s Rolex

Get ready to to reach for the stars,&nbsp;<a href="https://robbreport.com/tag/rolex/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Rolex</a>&nbsp;lovers.&nbsp;



A rare&nbsp;<a rel="noreferrer noopener" href="https://www.phillips.com/detail/rolex/NY080223/23" target="_blank">Rolex “Space-Dweller”</a>&nbsp;will be offered in&nbsp;<a href="https://robbreport.com/tag/phillips/">Phillips</a>’s The New York Watch&nbsp;<a rel="noreferrer noopener" href="https://robbreport.com/tag/auction/" target="_blank">Auction</a>: NINE, taking place in December. The Swiss watchmaker lost a contract to Omega for outfitting NASA’s astronauts on missions to the moon. But shortly after Project Mercury astronauts visited Japan in 1963, Rolex unveiled its special ref. 1016 Explorer watch, a.k.a. the Space-Dweller to capitalize on the publicity. It’s unclear how many examples were made, but the lone model headed to the auction block is expected to fetch between US$50,000 (HK$389,343) and US$100,000 (HK$778,681), according to pre-sale estimates. &nbsp;



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large is-resized"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="708" height="1024" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Rolex_SD3.jpg-708x1024.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234781352" style="aspect-ratio:0.6923076923076923;width:649px;height:auto" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Rolex_SD3.jpg-708x1024.webp 708w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Rolex_SD3.jpg-207x300.webp 207w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Rolex_SD3.jpg-768x1111.webp 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Rolex_SD3.jpg.webp 1000w" sizes="(max-width: 708px) 100vw, 708px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">View of the Rolex Space-Dweller’s case and dial COURTESY OF PHILLIPS</figcaption></figure>



The watch features a 36 mm stainless-steel case that houses a glossy black dial, complete with gilt graphics and golden luminous material on the hands and indexes. The display also includes text that reads “Space-Dweller,” alluding to its otherworldly inspiration. Experts believe that Rolex produced the timepiece in limited quantities for the Japanese market. According to the auction house’s website, this initial run of ref. 1016’s did not gain traction, resulting in the brand abandoning the Space Dweller as a model name going forward.&nbsp;



Few models bearing the moniker have appeared publicly since then, so the example headed to auction is is indeed rare. The well-preserved watch runs on calibre 1570, an automatic movement that includes 26 jewels and provides a 48-hour power reserve. The winning bidder will receive two service receipts from Rolex Japan dated June 19, 2003 and August 5, 1998 with the wrist piece that confirm its authenticity.&nbsp;



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large is-resized"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="660" height="1024" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Rolex_SD1.jpg-660x1024.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234781353" style="aspect-ratio:0.6454849498327759;width:650px;height:auto" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Rolex_SD1.jpg-660x1024.webp 660w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Rolex_SD1.jpg-193x300.webp 193w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Rolex_SD1.jpg-768x1192.webp 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Rolex_SD1.jpg-990x1536.webp 990w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Rolex_SD1.jpg.webp 1000w" sizes="(max-width: 660px) 100vw, 660px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">A close-up look at discontinued model name featured on the dial&nbsp; COURTESY OF PHILLIPS</figcaption></figure>



If you want to own a piece of Rolex—and space—history, you can place bids on the Space-Dweller in Phillips’s The New York Watch Auction: NINE from December 9 to 10. The auction house is also accepting advanced bids for the watch via&nbsp;<a rel="noreferrer noopener" href="https://www.phillips.com/detail/rolex/NY080223/23" target="_blank">its website</a>.

Phillips

The New York watch auction

This Rare and Otherworldly Rolex Space-Dweller Could Fetch up to HK$778,681 at Auction

<a href="https://gillschmiddesign.com/index.html" rel="noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">Gill Schmid Design</a>’s latest expedition yacht&nbsp;<a href="https://robbreport.com/tag/concept/">concept</a>&nbsp;was developed specifically for 007 obsessives.



Christened Synesthesia, the 213-foot newcomer is sturdy enough that it can tackle all manner of missions on the high seas but also doesn’t skimp on lavish amenities.



“We are looking at an owner who likes the James Bond lifestyle, always seeking adventures at the highest level of comfort and luxury,” the New York-based studio said in a statement.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full is-resized"><img decoding="async" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/GSD_Synesthesia_2.jpg.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234779509" style="width:648px" width="648" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/GSD_Synesthesia_2.jpg.webp 1000w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/GSD_Synesthesia_2.jpg-300x169.webp 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/GSD_Synesthesia_2.jpg-768x432.webp 768w" sizes="(max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">The vessel can accommodate a full fleet of toys, naturally.</figcaption></figure>



Synesthesia’s hardwearing steel hull is topped by a lightweight carbon-fiber monocoque superstructure with enough structural integrity that it can create a vast column-free interior. The vessel is brimming with nifty architectural features that will appeal to any gadget-obsessed M16 agents, too. For starters, the glazing within is completely retractable, with sliding doors and rotating glass elements that create a flowing open-plan layout and link the interior with the exterior.



The yacht is also equipped with a number of secret pop-up platforms and terraces. The touch-and-go helipad can be lifted up to create a striking party space, for example. A chopper isn’t the only thing you can store onboard, either. The tender garage is capable of stowing a 33-foot limousine tender, a 33-foot RIB, and four Jet Skis. There is also a drone store on the main deck for tech-savvy spies.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full is-resized"><img decoding="async" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/GSD_Synesthesia_10.jpg.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234779510" style="width:647px" width="647" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/GSD_Synesthesia_10.jpg.webp 1000w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/GSD_Synesthesia_10.jpg-300x169.webp 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/GSD_Synesthesia_10.jpg-768x432.webp 768w" sizes="(max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">The interior is centered around a spacious main salon. Gill Schmid Design</figcaption></figure>



The living quarters center around a light and airy main salon and dining room that are geared toward entertaining. There is also an alfresco dining area on the bridge deck with a glass floor that overlooks the infinity pool and pool lounge below. It’s the perfect place to enjoy a few&nbsp;<a rel="noreferrer noopener" href="https://robbreport.com/food-drink/spirits/best-vesper-recipe-james-bond-gin-vodka-lillet-cocktail-1234590349/" target="_blank">Vesper Martinis</a>—shaken, not stirred, of course. You can sleep it off in a lavish full-beam owner’s suite, while your fellow agents can retire to one of six spacious guest cabins. The yacht also offers accommodation for up to 17 crew (or henchmen).



Another spot that is ripe for Vespers is the sundeck. The breezy, open-air oasis is home to a large alfresco dining space, loungers, and an infinity Jacuzzi. All that’s missing is a femme fatale.



Click&nbsp;<a href="https://robbreport.com/motors/marine/gallery/gill-schmid-designs-synaesthesia-expedition-yacht-concept-1234887695/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">here</a>&nbsp;to see all the photos of Synaesthesia.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full is-resized"><img decoding="async" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/GSD_Synesthesia_15.jpg.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234779511" style="width:648px" width="648" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/GSD_Synesthesia_15.jpg.webp 1000w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/GSD_Synesthesia_15.jpg-300x169.webp 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/GSD_Synesthesia_15.jpg-768x432.webp 768w" sizes="(max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Gill Schmid Design</figcaption></figure>

Gill Schmid Design

James Bond

Synesthesia

This Tech-Savvy New 213-Foot Expedition Yacht Has More Tricks Than a Bond Car