High fashion, meet hi-fi.



The Danish audio brand Bang &amp; Olufsen has just debuted its latest collaboration with <a href="https://robbreport.com/tag/saint-laurent/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Saint Laurent</a>, the fashion label helmed by Anthony Vaccarello. The Beogram 4000c Saint Laurent Rive Droite Edition is a reimagining of Bang &amp; Olufsen’s iconic and highly coveted Beogram 4000 turntable, with bold touches reminiscent of Vaccarello’s designs. Retailing for US$35,000 (approximately HK$271,965), it will be available at Saint Laurent Rive Droite stores in Paris and Los Angeles, as well as online at <a href="https://ysl.com/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ysl.com</a>.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="681" height="383" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/Bang-Olufsen-Saint-Laurent-Collab.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234795991" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/Bang-Olufsen-Saint-Laurent-Collab.webp 681w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/Bang-Olufsen-Saint-Laurent-Collab-300x169.webp 300w" sizes="(max-width: 681px) 100vw, 681px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">The front of the turntable. Image courtesy of Bang &amp; Olufsen</figcaption></figure>



Initially released in 1972, the Beogram 4000 is one of B&amp;O’s most collectible items, thanks to its performance, appearance, and rarity. (It was discontinued after just two years, in 1974.) Working with Saint Laurent, Bang &amp; Olufsen has restored 10 original examples, pairing its top-of-the-line sound with modern details: Every turntable is wrapped in a solid ziricote wood case, and they all feature aluminium touches and an exclusive etched logo that calls out the collab. Each piece is also individually numbered.



Bang &amp; Olufsen has been working with Saint Laurent since 2017, and the Beogram 4000c is the fifth piece they’ve created together. In the past, the two have released limited-edition versions of the <a href="https://robbreport.com/gear/audio/bang-olufsen-debut-beoplay-e8-wireless-earbuds-apple-airpod-2730983/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Beoplay E8</a> wireless earbuds, the Beoplay A1 portable speaker, the <a href="https://robbreport.com/shelter/home-design/bang-olufsen-beosound-edge-masterpiece-minimalism-2821325/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Beosound Edge</a> multi-room speaker, and the Beosound A9 design speaker. All of those items, though, were crafted in a sleek black colourway—the Beogram 4000c’s wood detailing makes it stand out from the rest of the line. Along with the visual touches, the turntable’s technical specs include a built-in amp and an automatic, tangential tonearm, with all components refurbished by hand in Denmark.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="683" height="1024" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/Bang-Olufsen-Saint-Laurent-Collab-Turntable.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234795990" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/Bang-Olufsen-Saint-Laurent-Collab-Turntable.webp 683w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/Bang-Olufsen-Saint-Laurent-Collab-Turntable-200x300.webp 200w" sizes="(max-width: 683px) 100vw, 683px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">A look inside. Image courtesy of Bang &amp; Olufsen</figcaption></figure>



Training their eye on the in-demand turntable, the two brands are bringing back to the market one of Bang &amp; Olufsen’s most enduring products, even if its initial run was rather short-lived. In 2020, B&amp;O similarly gave collectors a chance to get their hands on restored versions of the Beogram 4000: At that time, in honour of the company’s 95th anniversary, it debuted the <a href="https://robbreport.com/gear/audio/bang-olufsen-beogram-4000c-recreated-limited-edition-turntable-1234573982/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Beogram 4000c Recreated Limited Edition</a>, with 95 examples restored from the 1970s original.



With just 10 versions of the Saint Laurent collab available, the new release may be even more covetable—especially since it pairs one of the best audio brands with one of the chicest fashion labels.

Bang & Olufsen

Beogram 4000c Saint Laurent Rive Droite Edition

Saint Laurent

turntable

Bang & Olufsen Teams Up With Saint Laurent to Bring Back a 1970s-Era Turntable

The world’s first luxury smart ring is here—or so the company Ultrahuman says.



The brand has just unveiled its Rare smart ring, which is hand-crafted with some of the earth’s most precious metals, Digital Trends <a href="https://www.digitaltrends.com/mobile/ultrahuman-rare-may-be-the-most-luxurious-smart-ring-yet-ces-2025/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">reported</a> on Tuesday. Ultrahuman showed off the new piece of wearable tech at CES in Las Vegas, and it will first become available in the United Kingdom and France, before hitting the US market.



The Rare <a href="https://robbreport.com/tag/rings/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">rings</a> have been created in three desert-inspired colourways: Desert Rose, which features 18-carat rose gold and a brushed finish; Desert Snow, made of PT950 platinum; and Dune, with 18-carat gold and a brushed finish. Ultrahuman says that every ring is hand-crafted using special metalworking techniques, Digital Trends noted, contributing to a price tag of about US$1,865 (approximately HK$14,517) to US$2,250 (approximately HK$17,514), depending on the style.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large is-resized"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="776" height="1024" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Ultrahuman-Rare-Ring-Desert-Snow.jpg-2-776x1024.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234794937" style="width:837px;height:auto" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Ultrahuman-Rare-Ring-Desert-Snow.jpg-2-776x1024.webp 776w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Ultrahuman-Rare-Ring-Desert-Snow.jpg-2-227x300.webp 227w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Ultrahuman-Rare-Ring-Desert-Snow.jpg-2-768x1013.webp 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Ultrahuman-Rare-Ring-Desert-Snow.jpg-2-1164x1536.webp 1164w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Ultrahuman-Rare-Ring-Desert-Snow.jpg-2.webp 1200w" sizes="(max-width: 776px) 100vw, 776px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">The Rare ring in Desert Snow. Image courtesy of Ultrahuman</figcaption></figure>



As for the smart features of the ring, those are similar to the ones found in Ultrahuman’s Ring Air. With sensors that track motion, skin temperature, and heart rate, the ring can assess everything from your stress levels to the quality of your sleep. Using the data it collects, the wearable can assist you with dynamic recovery, help get you moving more, and even assess your caffeine levels for better productivity and sleep management.



While all users of Ultrahuman’s rings receive those benefits, the Rare rings come with special perks, including lifetime access to UltrahumanX, the company’s benefits and coverage programme. It also gives you free access to the brand’s current and future PowerPlugs, which allow you to customise your experience with add-ons like cardio adaptability and Vitamin D tracking. The water-resistant ring clocks in at eight millimetres wide and 2.45 millimetres thick. And with up to six days of battery life, it’ll last you almost the full week on a single charge.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large is-resized"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="778" height="1024" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Ultrahuman-Rare-Ring-Dune.jpg-2-778x1024.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234794936" style="width:839px;height:auto" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Ultrahuman-Rare-Ring-Dune.jpg-2-778x1024.webp 778w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Ultrahuman-Rare-Ring-Dune.jpg-2-228x300.webp 228w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Ultrahuman-Rare-Ring-Dune.jpg-2-768x1011.webp 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Ultrahuman-Rare-Ring-Dune.jpg-2-1167x1536.webp 1167w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Ultrahuman-Rare-Ring-Dune.jpg-2.webp 1200w" sizes="(max-width: 778px) 100vw, 778px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">The Dune option. Image courtesy of Ultrahuman</figcaption></figure>



Ultrahuman’s latest release is a luxe take on a popular accessory in the wearable-tech space. When it comes to smart rings, the leader may still be the&nbsp;<a href="https://robbreport.com/style/jewelry/oura-ring-detect-covid-19-virus-1234589967/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Oura Ring</a>, which has been around for years at this point. Samsung has also come out with&nbsp;<a href="https://robbreport.com/gear/personal-technology/gallery/review-wearable-artificial-intelligence-tech-1235867080/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">its own version</a>&nbsp;of the tech-forward jewellery. And while those brands may be better known than Ultrahuman, the latter is innovating in the industry with the addition of high-end materials to match its high-end tech.



If you’ve ever wondered why a smart ring has to look so clunky, this one may be for you.

gold

gold ring

platinum ring

Ultrahuman

Luxe Aura? This New Smart Ring Is Hand-Crafted With 18-Carat Gold and Platinum

The competition for wearable tech is heating up. &nbsp;



The <a href="https://robbreport.com/tag/apple/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Apple</a> Vision Pro and Meta Quest 3 are getting a new mixed-reality headset rival, CNN <a href="https://www.cnn.com/2024/12/13/business/google-samsung-xr-headset/index.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">reported</a> on Friday. Google and Samsung are collaborating on an original piece of headgear and a new Android XR operating system that will contend with devices previously released by Apple Inc. and Meta Platforms. Code named Project Moohan (or “infinity” in Korean), the headset will hit the market sometime next year. However, the price has not yet been revealed.



In terms of capabilities, the headset will show locations in detail through Google Maps. Plus, users can watch videos via YouTube and take advantage of its trip planning capabilities with the help of Google’s AI chatbot, Gemini.



At the same time the mixed-reality headset was announced, the companies also introduced a new Android XR operating system, which will power future Samsung-built wearable devices including the forthcoming headset and even smart glasses.&nbsp;



“We are at an inflection point for the XR, where breakthroughs in multimodal AI enable natural and intuitive ways to use technology in your everyday life,” Sameer Samat, president of Android Ecosystem at Google, said in a <a href="https://news.samsung.com/global/unlock-the-infinite-possibilities-of-xr-with-galaxy-ai" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">press statement</a>. “We’re thrilled to partner with Samsung to build a new ecosystem with Android XR, transforming computing for everyone on next-generation devices like headsets, glasses, and beyond.”



Since Apple released its Vision Pro earlier this year, the US$3,499 (approximately HK$27,203) headset has struggled to meet demand after users claimed it was uncomfortable to wear and were disappointed with its features. In response, the tech giant has reportedly <a href="https://robbreport.com/gear/gadgets/apple-vision-pro-headset-slowing-production-1235965286/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">slowed down production</a> of the headset and could stop making the current version Vision Pro altogether in favour of a cheaper alternative.



In the meantime, news broke that Apple might be <a href="https://robbreport.com/gear/electronics/apple-smart-glasses-1235980820/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">moving on to smart eyewear </a>next after Meta previously released its own <a href="https://robbreport.com/tag/ray-ban/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Ray-Ban</a> smart specs. While nothing has been officially confirmed, Apple was allegedly workshopping the idea and testing products among its employees as it often does to better understand the current market. In addition to Meta’s Ray-Ban glasses, its CEO <a href="https://robbreport.com/tag/mark-zuckerberg/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Mark Zuckerberg</a> unveiled a prototype of the company’s first AR eyewear dubbed <a href="https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2024-09-25/meta-s-orion-shows-that-sci-fi-dream-of-ar-glasses-is-getting-closer" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Orion</a> during a conference in September, calling them “the most advanced glasses the world has ever seen.” Though, they’re not expected to be released to the public until at least 2027.

Gear

google

Headset

Samsung

wearable tech

Google and Samsung Are Teaming Up to Make a Mixed-Reality Headset

In a world where audio excellence is often an elusive pursuit, there are a handful of brands that are ever reliable (and often listed in our <a href="https://robbreport.hk/posts/the-best-in-gear-from-devialets-lifestyle-stereo-to-lgs-5k-dual-monitors" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Best in Gear</a> annual compendium). <a href="https://robbreport.hk/brands/devialet/stories" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Devialet</a> has consistently emerged as a beacon of innovation and luxury; every new drop is a highly anticipated event among technophiles and audiophiles. Now, the French acoustic engineering company has unveiled its latest masterpiece—the <a href="https://www.devialet.com/en-hk/amplifiers/?srsltid=AfmBOoqVI75JWUIEUJaz4-69exF7xZL8RI_IsPM1MX8UJp2KxohQq02v" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Devialet Astra</a>, a high-end amplifier that promises to redefine the auditory experience for discerning listeners.



Launched in Hong Kong this past November,&nbsp;Robb Report Hong Kong&nbsp;went in for a spin (so to speak) as the hype and hoopla dusted down to spend some time with this avant-garde device that seamlessly harmonises cutting-edge technology with minimalist aesthetics, appealing to both audiophiles and design aficionados alike. Unfamiliar with new-age music, we requested a 1960s throwback album, and the&nbsp;Sound of Silence&nbsp;was palpably felt.&nbsp;



At its core, the Devialet Astra embodies the company’s signature Analog Digital Hybrid (ADH) technology, a revolutionary approach that combines the purity of analogue amplification with the compact power of digital systems. It’s this advanced integration that allows the Astra to deliver an impressive 2&#215;300 watts in stereo mode and a staggering 2&#215;600 watts in dual mono configuration, ensuring that every note is rendered with unparalleled clarity and depth. In fact, the amplifier’s frequency response extends to remarkable limits, capturing the nuanced details that make live performances so captivating.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="1024" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/DEVIALET-Astra_Packshots_Dual_Opera-de-Paris_01-1024x1024.png" alt="" class="wp-image-1234793795" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/DEVIALET-Astra_Packshots_Dual_Opera-de-Paris_01-1024x1024.png 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/DEVIALET-Astra_Packshots_Dual_Opera-de-Paris_01-300x300.png 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/DEVIALET-Astra_Packshots_Dual_Opera-de-Paris_01-150x150.png 150w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/DEVIALET-Astra_Packshots_Dual_Opera-de-Paris_01-768x768.png 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/DEVIALET-Astra_Packshots_Dual_Opera-de-Paris_01-1536x1536.png 1536w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/DEVIALET-Astra_Packshots_Dual_Opera-de-Paris_01.png 1600w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>



“Our ability to reproduce sound in infinite detail brings true and vibrant emotions to life,” says Devialet CEO Jacques Demont, and this sentiment is echoed throughout the design and engineering of the Astra, which boasts a sleek, brushed-aluminium exterior inspired by the Art Deco movement. The result is an object of beauty that not only enhances auditory experiences but is also stark in its simplicity, serves as a visual statement in any setting.



Significantly, the Astra integrates a suite of proprietary technologies that elevate its performance. Speaker Active Matching (SAM) technology ensures that the audio signal is precisely adapted to the unique specifications of passive speakers, preserving their acoustic signature in real time. This capability is bolstered by Record Active Matching (RAM) technology, which allows for dynamic EQ adjustments tailored to the specific characteristics of any turntable or vinyl record. Such innovations underscore Devialet’s commitment to providing an audio experience that is as personalised as it is powerful.



The Astra is available in two exquisite finishes: the Light Bronze model and the exclusive Opéra de Paris edition, adorned with 23-carat gold leaf applied by master gilders Les Ateliers Gohard. This partnership not only highlights Devialet’s dedication to craftsmanship but also its commitment to cultural heritage, as seen in its long-standing collaboration with the Opéra National de Paris. With a price point starting at HK$149,900 for the Light Bronze stereo configuration and ascending to HK$377,800 for the dual mono Opéra de Paris edition, the Astra positions itself at the pinnacle of luxury audio equipment. Its launch in Hong Kong marks the beginning of a broader rollout across the Asia-Pacific region in March 2025.



All images courtesy of Devialet.

audio

Devialet

Devialet Astra

Devialet’s Elegant New Astra Amplifier Is an Audiophile’s Dream

Forget flashy studs. Bang &amp; Olufsen’s latest release is the ear candy you’ve been missing.&nbsp;



The Danish audio brand has unveiled the stylish new <a href="https://clicks.trx-hub.com/xid/pmc_0aaa4_robbreport?q=https%3A%2F%2Fgo.skimresources.com%3Fid%3D87443X1569519%26xs%3D1%26url%3Dhttps%253A%252F%252Fwww.bang-olufsen.com%252Fen%252Fus%252Fearphones%252Fbeoplay-eleven%253Fvariant%253Dbeoplay-eleven-natural-aluminium%26sref%3Dhttps%253A%252F%252Frobbreport.com%252Fgear%252Faudio%252Fbang-olufsen-beoplay-eleven-earbuds-1236008003%252F&amp;p=https%3A%2F%2Frobbreport.com%2Fgear%2Faudio%2Fbang-olufsen-beoplay-eleven-earbuds-1236008003%2F&amp;ref=&amp;event_type=click&amp;trx-iid=iid1732867552838ida" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Beoplay Eleven</a>, inspired by its sleek <a href="https://robbreport.com/gear/audio/bang-olufsen-beoplay-h100-headphones-1235841659/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Beoplay H100 </a><a href="https://robbreport.com/tag/headphones/">headphones</a> that debuted in September. In terms of design, the next-gen wireless <a href="https://robbreport.com/tag/earbuds/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">earbuds</a> take cues from the fine-jewellery world with polished aluminium combined with glistening glass accents to create a gem-like finish. Aesthetics aside, audiophiles will be happy to know the new buds also stand on their own when it comes to performance, too. Think improved sound quality thanks to what the company is touting as its most advanced active noise cancellation to date. 



The Beoplay Eleven is actually an offshoot of B&amp;O’s Beoplay EX buds. However, the new design includes six updated microphones that double the amount of noise reduction, in addition to an improved transparency mode so you can literally tune out your surroundings with the tap of a finger—without removing your earphones. The external microphones also underwent a revamp to provide clearer sound quality and better voice-calling capabilities with the introduction of a padded fine mesh that can filter out wind noise while you’re on the phone. Once fully charged, you’ll have up to eight hours of battery life. 



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/BeoplayEleven-.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234793673" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/BeoplayEleven-.webp 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/BeoplayEleven--300x169.webp 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/BeoplayEleven--768x432.webp 768w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Bang &amp; Olufsen’s new Beoplay Eleven in natural aluminium. Image courtesy of Bang &amp; Olufsen</figcaption></figure>



The Beoplay Eleven model comes in two colourways: a copper-y burnt orange or a natural toned aluminium that’s almost black. Each also includes a coordinating pearl-blasted aluminium charging case, which is pretty sweet if you’re into a matching set. Not only do the buds look as good as they sound, but the ear tips are made from premium silicone moulds to ensure they’re comfortable to wear for extended periods of time.



“Beoplay EX revolutionised our wireless earphone category with its superior sound and cutting-edge design. With the new Beoplay Eleven, Bang &amp; Olufsen has elevated its ambitions once again,” Francesco Tonon, VP of product management, said in a press release. “The new Beoplay Eleven delivers even better sound quality thanks to transformative ANC and Transparency that embodies our innovation capabilities, and we cannot wait to bring them to our customers.” 



The new Beoplay Eleven will run you a cool £429 (or US$499/HK$3,885). The natural aluminium variant is available now in Bang &amp; Olufsen stores and <a href="https://clicks.trx-hub.com/xid/pmc_0aaa4_robbreport?q=https%3A%2F%2Fgo.skimresources.com%3Fid%3D87443X1569519%26xs%3D1%26url%3Dhttps%253A%252F%252Fwww.bang-olufsen.com%252Fen%252Fus%252Fearphones%252Fbeoplay-eleven%253Fvariant%253Dbeoplay-eleven-natural-aluminium%26sref%3Dhttps%253A%252F%252Frobbreport.com%252Fgear%252Faudio%252Fbang-olufsen-beoplay-eleven-earbuds-1236008003%252F&amp;p=https%3A%2F%2Frobbreport.com%2Fgear%2Faudio%2Fbang-olufsen-beoplay-eleven-earbuds-1236008003%2F&amp;ref=&amp;event_type=click&amp;trx-iid=iid1732867552838ida" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">on its website</a>. If you can wait, the copper tone is set to drop on 17 December.

Bang & Olufsen Just Unveiled a Pair of Fine Jewellery-Inspired Earbuds

Bang &amp; Olufsen has got the soundtrack covered for your next yachting adventure.



The Danish audio brand has teamed up with <a href="https://robbreport.com/motors/marine/riva-new-70-metri-hybrid-superyacht-flagship-1235887432/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Italian shipyard Riva</a> on two new <a href="https://robbreport.com/tag/speakers/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">speakers</a> designed for the high seas. Both the Beosound A5 and Beosound 2 <a href="https://robbreport.com/tag/riva/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Riva</a> Edition have been made with Bang &amp; Olufsen’s signature high-end elements, and Riva has helped bring them a sleek nautical twist that can look at home on the land or at sea.



The US$2,599 (HK$20,200) A5 is a portable speaker with a handle, making it ideal for carrying between rooms or from your yacht to your land-based property. Navy-blue aluminium is wrapped in a mahogany and maple veneer, handmade by Riva’s craftsmen in Sarnico. The locking pins on the hinges feature Bang &amp; Olufsen’s logo, as well as a pop of aquamarine blue that nods to the nautical nature of the collab.



As for the specs, the A5 comes with 360-degree sound dispersion and top-of-the-line sound quality, ensuring that you’ll be able to hear your music from anywhere on board. Notably, the speaker touts IP65 water resistance, and it has 12 hours of battery life with wireless charging built in.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="681" height="383" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/Bang-and-Olufsen-Riva-Collab.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234792806" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/Bang-and-Olufsen-Riva-Collab.webp 681w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/Bang-and-Olufsen-Riva-Collab-300x169.webp 300w" sizes="(max-width: 681px) 100vw, 681px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">The Beosound 2 Riva Edition. Image courtesy of Nicola Lorusso</figcaption></figure>



The US$5,499 (HK$42,735) Beosound 2, meanwhile, is a solid aluminium speaker that’s double-anodised in navy blue, with the grille lines precision-milled onto the device afterward. Riva’s signature blue aquamarine line appears on the floating control wheel, which also allows you to put the sound in any direction. Like the A5, the Beosound 2 comes with 360-degree sound, thanks to acoustic lens technology in the speaker’s conical body.



This isn’t the first time Bang &amp; Olufsen has collabed with one of the best companies in its field. Earlier this month, it released a <a href="https://robbreport.com/gear/audio/bang-olufsen-launches-second-ferrari-collection-1235905404/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">second collection</a> with Ferrari, using the Italian marque’s charcoal Grigio Corso colourway on speakers, a soundbar, and a TV system. And the Danish brand has been on a bit of a tear when it comes to new releases, too: In September, it unveiled its <a href="https://robbreport.com/gear/audio/bang-olufsen-beoplay-h100-headphones-1235841659/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">most premium headphones</a> yet, the lambskin-accented H100s.



Whether you’re listening at home, at sea, or poolside, these new speakers have a nautical flair you can take anywhere.

collaboration

Nautical Speakers

riva

Riva and Bang & Olufsen Teamed Up on Two New Nautical Speakers

The private-jet world seems to be <a href="https://robbreport.com/motors/aviation/private-aviation-declining-newcomers-leaving-1234792248/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">levelling off</a> from its record highs during the Covid years. The fractional and jet-card segments are still above pre-Covid sales levels, while others such as used aircraft sales and on-demand charter have declined from giddy highs in 2021 and 2022.



Sentiment for the near-term of <a href="https://robbreport.com/tag/business-aviation/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">business aviation</a> was positive at last week’s <a href="https://www.corporatejetinvestor.com/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Corporate Jet Investor (CJI) </a>conference in Miami, in an industry known for its cyclical highs and lows. Aircraft company CEOs, jet-card executives, aviation attorneys, aircraft brokers, and private equity reps examined different sectors of the industry during three days of interviews and panel discussions. They agreed, with some exceptions, that <a href="https://robbreport.com/motors/aviation/private-jet-market-outlook-fall-2024-1235963576/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">the market remains strong</a>, following those unprecedented pandemic highs.



“We’re happy as clams,” said Don Dwyer, a principal with Guardian Jet, a brokerage firm specialising in consulting and used aircraft sales. “We’re seeing an underlying optimism in people buying and selling aircraft. The market remains strong. This is our biggest year ever.”



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large is-resized"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/2.-GettyImages-85642743.jpg-1024x576.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234794823" style="width:839px;height:auto" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/2.-GettyImages-85642743.jpg-1024x576.webp 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/2.-GettyImages-85642743.jpg-300x169.webp 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/2.-GettyImages-85642743.jpg-768x432.webp 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/2.-GettyImages-85642743.jpg.webp 1200w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">High-net worth clients have largely remained in business aviation since Covid, while the sector has also seen a return of corporate travelers.  Image courtesy of Getty Images</figcaption></figure>



The re-election of Donald Trump seems to have had an immediate beneficial impact. “Our market indicators have gone up 35 points since the election,” says Rollie Vincent, director of JetNet IQ, which tracks business aviation in industry surveys. “There are a lot of signs right now that things aren’t going to slow down, at least not for the short term—barring a black-swan event.”



Business aviation is broken down across different categories, between new and used aircraft sales, <a href="https://robbreport.com/tag/fractional-ownership/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">fractional ownership</a> (where a company or individual buys an ownership stake in a jet for three to five years), on-demand charter, and jet cards.



“It’s nuts. We saw our spring being extended beyond its usual season and then summer was really busy,” says Alan Walsh, senior vice president of client management and operations for Sentient, a jet-card maker. He explains that the company expects to sell US$100 million (around HK$778.50 million) worth of flights by the end of the year, and expects a strong year next year, “barring any unforeseen larger issues.”



<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/2025/01/1.-Flexjet-Global-HQ-Exterior-Rampside.jpg.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234794824" style="width:839px;height:auto" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/1.-Flexjet-Global-HQ-Exterior-Rampside.jpg.webp 1000w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/1.-Flexjet-Global-HQ-Exterior-Rampside.jpg-300x169.webp 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/1.-Flexjet-Global-HQ-Exterior-Rampside.jpg-768x432.webp 768w" sizes="(max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Fractional ownership firms like <a href="https://robbreport.com/tag/flexjet/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Flexjet</a> are seeing growth and making investments in new aircraft and infrastructure. Flexjet’s new US$50 million (around HK$389.25 million) headquarters.  Image courtesy of Flexjet</figcaption></figure>



Sentient’s sister company, Flexjet, has seen its fractional business grow during the Covid years and beyond. The company reported an 11 per cent year-to-date sales growth compared to last year, with a waiting list.



For the entire fractional segment, including fractional’s largest firm, NetJets, Flexjet, and nearly a dozen smaller companies, the number of flights was up 59 per cent in the second quarter of 2024, compared to the same quarter of pre-Covid 2019. A mix of whole aircraft owners, now selling their jets and moving into fractional, charter users, and corporate flight departments are driving the increase.



“Surprisingly, our fractional customer profile has gotten about 10 years younger,” said Kenn Ricci, the principal of Directional Aviation Capital, during the keynote address. “That’s a good thing because they’ll be with us longer. We’re also selling shares in four times as many mid- and super-mid aircraft than we do light jets. So, the jets are getting bigger. The other big change is our international growth.”



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large is-resized"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/2.-GettyImages-582758850.jpg-1024x576.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234794825" style="width:839px;height:auto" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/2.-GettyImages-582758850.jpg-1024x576.webp 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/2.-GettyImages-582758850.jpg-300x169.webp 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/2.-GettyImages-582758850.jpg-768x432.webp 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/2.-GettyImages-582758850.jpg.webp 1200w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Bizav’s weak links are shortages of repair facilities, technicians and spare parts. Some aircraft can be grounded for weeks.  Image courtesy of Getty Images</figcaption></figure>



The used-aircraft market, which softened after frenzied sales activity in 2021 and 2022, seems to be stabilising in the second half of this year, according to Vincent. “Values are holding up higher and longer than we expected, and we expect values to increase in the fourth quarter of this year,” he said. Because of US tax, the fourth quarter sees a surge of business jet sales.



New business jet deliveries were valued at about US$700 million (around HK$5.5 billion) this year, said Vincent, noting there is also a backlog of unbuilt, ordered aircraft valued at about $51 billion. “It’s enough for several years of production,” he said. “That leaves the aircraft manufacturers in good shape.”



On-demand charter is the only segment of the market that is softer, according to industry analyst Argus, which reported a 5.2 per cent drop in total hours during the first half of 2024, compared to the first half of 2023. But the 14.7 per cent decline from the 2022 high is even a better indicator in the decline of on-demand charter.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large is-resized"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/2.-GettyImages-158315417-1.jpg-1024x576.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234794826" style="width:837px;height:auto" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/2.-GettyImages-158315417-1.jpg-1024x576.webp 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/2.-GettyImages-158315417-1.jpg-300x169.webp 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/2.-GettyImages-158315417-1.jpg-768x432.webp 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/2.-GettyImages-158315417-1.jpg.webp 1200w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">An ongoing pilot shortage also continues to dog the industry, with many owners unable to find pilots to fly their jets.  Image courtesy of Getty Images</figcaption></figure>



The shortage of aircraft repair technicians, and not enough Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) centres, along with a continued supply-chain shortage of parts, is keeping many aircraft grounded for days, or even weeks. Ricci says a third of the Flexjet fleet is undergoing repairs at any given point. Most experts expect it to continue for several years.



The conference also had panels focusing on new connectivity technologies for aircraft cabins, the use of AI toward pilot-less aircraft, and the FlyHouse app that promises a seamless, Uber-like experience for people who want to book on-demand charters. Jack Lambert, FlyHouse’s founder, said the app lets potential charterers initiate a “reverse auction” among multiple charter firms and gain the best price. “On the low end, we expect this to be a US$3 (approximately HK$23.36 billion) to US$5 billion (around HK$38.93 billion) market in five years,” he said.

Aviation

Business jet

corporate jet

private

Private Jet

The Private-Jet World Is Optimistic About 2025, Despite a Post-Covid Slow-Down

It’s never too early to start planning a vacation. Just ask <a href="https://robbreport.com/tag/four-seasons/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Four Seasons</a>.



The hospitality giant just unveiled its <a href="https://www.fourseasons.com/privatejet/?source=pr_corporate_PrivateJet2026_Phase1" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">private jet itineraries</a> for 2026, giving travellers a chance to book their next adventure a good two years in advance. Designed by a team of experts, the six journeys allow jet-setters to explore far-flung destinations in five-star luxury. You’ll fly the globe in the fully customised Four Seasons <a href="https://robbreport.com/motors/aviation/airbus-new-acj320neo-jet-details-2898688/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Airbus A321Neo</a> and stay in lavish Four Seasons hotels along the way. More importantly, guests can partake in curated experiences a cut above the typical tour.



“Our goal is to create connections with travellers of this generation and the next, fostering a legacy of transformative experiences that extend far beyond the journey,” Marc Speichert, executive vice president and chief commercial officer of Four Seasons, said in a statement.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/Four_Seasons_Taj_Mahal_Timeless_Encounters.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234788550" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/Four_Seasons_Taj_Mahal_Timeless_Encounters.webp 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/Four_Seasons_Taj_Mahal_Timeless_Encounters-300x169.webp 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/Four_Seasons_Taj_Mahal_Timeless_Encounters-768x432.webp 768w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">History connoisseurs can visit famous landmarks like the Taj Mahal. Image courtesy of Four Seasons</figcaption></figure>



The itineraries cater to a wide range of travellers, with differing lengths and routes. The 16-day <a href="https://www.fourseasons.com/privatejet/journeys/asia-unveiled-2026/?source=pr_corporate_PrivateJet2026_Phase1" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Asia Unveiled</a> trip, for instance, takes guests on a deep dive into the East, with stops in Tokyo, Bali, Angkor Wat, Hoi An, Bhutan, the Maldives, and Bangkok. Other adventures, like the 21-day <a href="https://www.fourseasons.com/privatejet/journeys/international-intrigue-2026/?source=pr_corporate_PrivateJet2026_Phase1" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">International Intrigue</a> journey, cover many global destinations from the African savannah to the city of Paris.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/Four_Seasons_Resort_Maldives.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234788549" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/Four_Seasons_Resort_Maldives.webp 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/Four_Seasons_Resort_Maldives-300x169.webp 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/Four_Seasons_Resort_Maldives-768x432.webp 768w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Wellness enthusiasts can indulge at Four Seasons Resort Maldives. Image courtesy of Markus Gortz</figcaption></figure>



Similarly, the experiences on offer are designed to appeal to a myriad of personality types, from culture vultures and history nerds to thrill-seekers and gourmands. On the <a href="https://www.fourseasons.com/privatejet/journeys/african-wonders-2026/?source=pr_corporate_PrivateJet2026_Phase1" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">African Wonders</a> trip, fitness buffs can join a Maasai guide for a nature walk in the Serengeti and then chill out in a meditation session led by an expert yogi. During <a href="https://www.fourseasons.com/privatejet/journeys/timeless-encounters-2026/?source=pr_corporate_PrivateJet2026_Phase1" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Timeless Encounters</a>, explorers can take a submarine scooter to Bora Bora’s renowned diving spots. With International Intrigue and <a href="https://robbreport.com/tag/asia/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Asia</a> Unveiled, wellness enthusiasts indulge in lavish treatments at the Island Spa within Four Seasons Resort Maldives. Asia Unveiled also allows foodies to embark on a sushi masterclass with a Michelin-starred chef in Tokyo, while International Intrigue gives gluttons the chance to craft six courses with celebrated chefs in Mexico City’s local markets. In addition, history connoisseurs can visit famous landmarks like the Taj Mahal on <a href="https://www.fourseasons.com/privatejet/journeys/timeless-encounters-2026/?source=pr_corporate_PrivateJet2026_Phase1" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Timeless Encounters</a>. That is just a taste of the experiences on offer, too.



The 2026 itineraries range from 13 to 21 days and cost between US$159,000 and US$229,000 (HK$1.24 million to HK$1.78 million) per person. To start planning your trip, visit the <a href="https://www.fourseasons.com/privatejet/?source=pr_corporate_PrivateJet2026_Phase1" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Four Seasons website</a> or email the team at fourseasonsjet@fourseasons.com.

Four Seasons

Private Jet Trips

Four Seasons’ Private Jet Trips Will Take You to Asia, Africa, and Beyond in 2026

Why settle for a seat when you can have a suite?&nbsp;



<a href="https://robbreport.com/tag/london/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">London</a> Heathrow’s private terminal, the Windsor, once a well-kept secret among royals and celebrities, has undergone a major renovation unveiling eight lavish lounges and a host of exclusive amenities from British brands. The first phase of the terminal’s three-year refurbishment offers up suites by Oliver Burns Studio, in addition to door-to-plane chauffeur service, a special menu by celebrity chef Jason Atherton, and private security screenings. To get in, you’ll need to be departing or arriving either business or first class on any airline. You’ll also have to pay a one-way entry fee of £3,812 (about US$4,795/HK$37,290) for up to three guests or £7,624 (US$9,648/HK$59,290) if you want round-trip access.  



Unlike the typical airline or credit-card-affiliated lounges, Heathrow’s Windsor terminal is directly owned and operated by the airport itself. You’ll be escorted from their front door directly to the plane in an all-electric <a href="https://robbreport.com/tag/bmw/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">BMW</a> i7, with pickup available within a 25-mile radius. A personal porter will meet you at the entrance to take your checked luggage. If you’re travelling internationally, a dedicated Border Force will be present to manage private immigration services. Then, just hand over your passports and documents to your host, and the rest is taken care of. 



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/the-windsor.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234795730" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/the-windsor.webp 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/the-windsor-300x169.webp 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/the-windsor-768x432.webp 768w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Members of the Windsor get shuttled to and around the airport in a private BMW. Image courtesy of the Windsor by Heathrow</figcaption></figure>



Each suite is named after a prestigious London neighbourhood, such as <a href="https://robbreport.com/tag/chelsea/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Chelsea</a> and Kensington, and sport bespoke furnishings, soft-hued Axminster carpets, Commune toiletries, and August&amp;Piers fragrances. The private terminal doesn’t currently offer showers or beds; however, each suite comes with a private bathroom and there are plans to add showers in the future, Burns told <a href="https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2025-02-20/inside-heathrow-s-private-terminal-for-vips-the-windsor?srnd=homepage-americas" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Bloomberg</a>. The high-end art on display, which changes every two months, includes pieces from Banksy and Andy Warhol and are available for purchase via a QR code.  



When it comes to the food, <a href="https://robbreport.com/tag/michelin/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Michelin</a>-starred chef Jason Atherton has crafted a selection of exclusive dishes for the Windsor, including English butter shortbread with praline cream, Earl Grey tea ice cream, custard sauce, and charred mandarin. There’s also a traditional tea trolley that rolls through carrying everything from Champagne to Victoria sponge cakes.  



“The Windsor by Heathrow is more than just a rebrand, it’s a testament to our heritage in pioneering luxury travel,” Charlotte Burns, VIP lead at Heathrow, said in a press statement. “From our carefully curated interiors to our exceptional service, we provide our guests with an unparalleled experience that reflects the finest of British hospitality.”&nbsp;



Sounds like quite the upgrade.

Heathrow

London

Private Terminal

The Windsor

Inside the Windsor, the Private Terminal at London’s Heathrow Airport

<a href="https://boomsupersonic.com/" rel="noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">Boom Supersonic</a>&nbsp;hit a milestone yesterday when its XB-1 experimental jet passed Mach 1.0, the speed of sound, on its way to Mach 1.122 or 860.87 mph. The event took place over the Mohave Desert, the same location where Chuck Yeager broke the sound barrier for the first time in 1947. Yesterday’s flight was number 11 of the XB-1 human-piloted test flights that started last March.



And the test also the culmination of years of work for Boom, which began operations in 2014 and, against much industry skepticism, has become the first US independent company to join the <a href="https://robbreport.com/tag/supersonic/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">supersonic</a> club. The last civil supersonic jet was the <a href="https://robbreport.com/motors/aviation/supersonic-jet-concorde-replaced-boom-overture-1235428265/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Concorde</a>, which flew from 1969 through 2003.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/2.-XB-1-SSF-3.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234795490" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/2.-XB-1-SSF-3.webp 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/2.-XB-1-SSF-3-300x169.webp 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/2.-XB-1-SSF-3-768x432.webp 768w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Test pilot Tristan Brandenburg before flying the XB-1. Image courtesy of Boom Aerospace</figcaption></figure>



“XB-1’s supersonic flight demonstrates that the technology for passenger supersonic flight has arrived,” said Boom’s founder Blake Scholl. “A small band of talented and dedicated engineers has accomplished what previously took governments and billions of dollars.” Boom has not received grants from any US military programmes, which some competitors considered essential to get a supersonic programme off the ground.



<a href="https://robbreport.com/motors/aviation/supersonic-jet-test-flight-pilot-1236111411/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Tristan “Geppetto” Brandenburg</a>, Boom’s chief test pilot and a former Navy test pilot, made the flight yesterday. It followed a protocol that expanded its flight envelope through subsonic, transonic, and then supersonic speeds. It was shadowed by two former fighter jets that Boom uses to monitor the XB-1 during the test flights.



Scholl said the next step is to scale up the technology used on the XB-1 for Boom’s supersonic airliner called the <a href="https://robbreport.com/motors/aviation/boom-supersonic-major-steps-towards-flight-1234860127/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Overture</a>. “Our ultimate goal is to bring the benefits of supersonic flight to everyone,” he said.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/2.-XB-1-SSF-5.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234795489" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/2.-XB-1-SSF-5.webp 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/2.-XB-1-SSF-5-300x169.webp 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/2.-XB-1-SSF-5-768x432.webp 768w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">The first supersonic flight of a US-designed civil aircraft attracted a large crowd. Image courtesy of Boom Aerospace</figcaption></figure>



The Overture is a much larger, more complicated commercial aircraft, designed to fly at Mach 1.7 and carry 64 to 80 passengers. Boom anticipates that the first commercial Overtures will take flight in <a href="https://robbreport.com/motors/aviation/boom-supersonic-jet-fly-next-months-1234889597/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">2029</a>. It has begun construction of a <a href="https://robbreport.com/motors/aviation/boom-opens-supersonic-factory-north-carolina-1235657781/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">production facility</a> in North Carolina and has received 130 orders and pre-orders from American Airlines, United Airlines, and Japan Airlines.



Boom says, at scale, it should be able to produce 66 Overtures per year. But that is still just a business plan that many aviation experts believe is unrealistic, citing the fact that the company was forced to build its own supersonic engines after major aviation engine manufacturers turned down the project.



Still, the company proved that it has reached the first step through an experimental jet—a step that its better-funded competitor, <a href="https://robbreport.com/motors/marine/aerion-shuts-down-1234615163/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Aerion</a>, never reached aft 20 years of developing its own supersonic business jet concept. It abruptly shut down in May 2021, citing little investor appetite in the supersonic concept.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/2.-Overture-4.jpg.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234795488" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/2.-Overture-4.jpg.webp 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/2.-Overture-4.jpg-300x169.webp 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/2.-Overture-4.jpg-768x432.webp 768w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">The XB-1’s goal is to prove the technologies needed to the larger Overture commercial supersonic airliner. Image courtesy of Boom Aerospace</figcaption></figure>



As a test platform, the XB-1 tries out multiple technologies that will be applied to the much larger and more complicated Overture. They include an augmented-reality vision system, which aids the pilot in seeing the runway on takeoff and landing, and digitally optimised aerodynamics, referring to the shape of the airframe and wings for the greatest stability at supersonic speeds. The aircraft is almost entirely made from carbon-composite materials, which allowed the designers to shape it more precisely.



The company will continue testing the XB-1 going forward.

boom supersonic

Boom’s Supersonic Jet Just Broke the Sound Barrier

<a href="https://robbreport.com/tag/delta/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Delta</a>&nbsp;is stepping up to a new level of luxury.&nbsp;



In an effort to win over its top spenders, the airline is boosting its premium offerings both in the sky and on the ground. The Atlanta-based carrier has begun rolling out high-end perks for fliers including everything from <a href="https://robbreport.com/motors/aviation/delta-new-cabin-seat-design-1235956235/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">newly designed cabins</a> to a slew of swanky DeltaOne Lounges, The Wall Street Journal <a href="https://www.wsj.com/articles/delta-doubles-down-on-luxury-to-attract-high-end-fliers-a53ca758?mod=hp_minor_pos7" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">reported</a> on Friday. The recent investments come amid a growing demand for upgraded services and an uptick in passengers who are willing to shell out extra for amenities while travelling. With this strategic push, Delta foresees its premium ticket revenue exceeding its main cabin by 2027 and says more than half of its current revenue comes from premium experiences.



As for what the airline has in store, it recently unveiled two exclusive new lounges in New York and Los Angeles. <a href="https://robbreport.com/travel/destinations/delta-one-lounge-lax-1235936318/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">At LAX</a>, the 10,000-square-foot space has seating for nearly 200 guests and offers a year-round sushi bar, plus a wellness room with relaxation pods, massage chairs, Hyperice compression boots, and amenity kits from luxury brand <a href="https://robbreport.com/tag/missoni/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Missoni</a>. Over on the East Coast, Delta opened its inaugural <a href="https://robbreport.com/travel/destinations/delta-first-premium-lounge-jfk-june-opening-1235541384/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Delta One Lounge at JFK</a> this summer and plans on launching two additional outposts in Boston and Seattle. Contrary to other airlines, the exclusive lounges are only accessible to those who opt for business class. “It’s drawing people to that ticket,” Delta’s chief financial officer Dan Janki told the newspaper.



In October, Delta also revealed new cabin designs and seating across its fleet ahead of its centennial anniversary. The Boeing 757 aircraft will be first in line to undergo a redesign with a focus on high-end finishes. The actual layout won’t change, but in Delta One business class, expect to find a more breathable wool-and-nylon blend instead of leather on lie-flat seats. Beyond that, the plane is installing mood lighting that coincides with cabin activity.



“Delta has a 100-year history of creating a customer experience that feels welcoming and thoughtful with intentional design elements woven into every aspect of a customer’s travel,” Mauricio Parise, the vice president of customer experience design at Delta, said in a <a href="https://news.delta.com/delta-unveils-new-cabin-interior-across-its-fleet" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">press statement</a> at the time. “As we embark on our next century of flying, this refreshed cabin interior infuses utility with beauty to create an atmosphere that feels fresh, elevated, and timeless while reflecting our customers’ evolving tastes and expectations.”



Delta is upgrading its in-flight dining and hospitality experiences, too. Last month, the airline announced a <a href="https://news.delta.com/now-boarding-delta-serve-shake-shack-burgers-flights" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">partnership with Shake Shack</a> on flights out of Boston in 2025. First-class passengers on routes over 900 miles will be able to order a Shake Shack cheeseburger on their flight, served with a side of chips, a Caesar salad, and a dark chocolate brownie. The company also levelled up its wine programme by partnering with master <a href="https://robbreport.com/tag/sommelier/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">sommelier</a> Andrea Robinson.



The next step, Delta chief executive&nbsp;Ed Bastian told the&nbsp;WSJ, is ramping up its strategy with&nbsp;private flights thanks to its investment in&nbsp;<a href="https://robbreport.com/tag/private-aviation/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">private aviation</a>&nbsp;firm&nbsp;<a href="https://robbreport.com/motors/aviation/wheels-up-reinvent-brand-1235415283/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Wheels Up</a>. “We’ve got some work to do,” Bastian&nbsp;said. “But eventually, it’s going to be our next step on our premium ladder.”&nbsp;

delta

Delta airlines

Luxury Travel

Delta Is Pulling Out All the Stops to Woo Luxury Travellers

Known by many simply as “the Domaine” to honour the esteem in which it is held in Burgundy, <a href="https://www.romanee-conti.fr/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Domaine de la Romanée-Conti</a> is a historical institution core to French culture and symbolism, and as celebrated as the Arc de Triomphe or Napoléon Bonaparte. 



Is it any surprise that 1,000 fine wine professionals from 120 countries voted the Domaine the Golden Vines® World’s Best Fine Wine Producer for three years running? Thankfully, for the rest of the fine-wine world, they can only win the award three times in a decade, so Vega-Sicilia was able to win the crown in 2024. 



For any lover of Burgundy wines, a visit to the estate in the village of Vosne-Romanée is a right of passage. The problem is that getting an invite is harder than seeking a fireside chat with the King of England. Thankfully, in September 2012, my wine mentor and friend, the late, great Gérard Basset, managed to wangle an invite for the two of us to barrel-taste with the now-retired head winemaker, the tall and very redoubtable Bernard Noblet. 



Towards the end of the tasting, Bernard asked Gérard what year his son, Romané (named after the Domaine), was born: “1999,” Gerard answered. Bernard then said he was off. Five minutes later, Bernard returned with a bottle of 1999 Grands-Echézeaux. For Gérard, a man who had tasted many of the world’s greatest wines through a long and storied career which included being crowned World Champion Sommelier in 2010, this wine, drunk in the near darkness of the underground cellars at the Domaine, was one of the greatest wines he had ever tasted. The taste lived long in the memory.



The Domaine’s key assets are its vineyards. Other than perhaps Chambertin Grand Cru and Musigny Grand Cru, it either owns outright as a monopole—La Romanée-Conti and La Tâche—or co-owns all of the greatest Grands Crus in Burgundy—Richebourg, Romanée-Saint-Vivant, Grands Echézeaux, Echézeaux, Corton, Corton-Charlemagne (on a long-term lease), and, of course, the greatest white wine vineyard in the world, Montrachet. Therefore, it’s hardly surprising that many consider its wines the greatest in the world of wine. 



Domaine de la Romaneé-Conti is the wine world’s most valuable “old-school” brand, with a deep history of tradition and excellence. Perrine Fenal, the new co-director of the estate since the premature passing of Henri-Frédéric Roch in 2019, made it abundantly clear to me that the Domaine is concerned about tradition, history, and producing the best wines from the vineyards inherited from past generations of hard-working, dedicated vignerons whose life-work was “the Domaine, and only the Domaine.” There is no interest in encouraging high prices, facilitating wine investors to purchase their wines in the secondary market, or promoting a luxury-image for their wines. Indeed, luxury is the antithesis of what they believe in: “It’s not our truth,” says Perrine, “we are here to make the best of the treasures we have inherited from the Cistercian monks and our forefathers, and we shouldn’t put our legacy in danger by highlighting the price label on our wines—it’s not the light we wish to shed on the Domaine.” 



As you would expect, the prices of the Domaine’s wines change hands at record prices, including a bottle of the famed La Romanée-Conti 1945 which sold at a 2018 Sotheby’s auction in New York for a world-record price of half-a-million dollars. Wine investors’ top buying choice, the Domaine’s wines are viewed by the market as investment-grade, ultra-premium luxury products that will forever rise in value, irrespective of the original price paid. Occasions of actually drinking these prized assets are becoming ever rarer, unless you are extremely rich, have little regard for money, or death is fast approaching!



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="683" height="1024" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/spinach_domaine_de_la_romanee-conti_2010-scaled-1-683x1024.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234795760" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/spinach_domaine_de_la_romanee-conti_2010-scaled-1-683x1024.jpg 683w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/spinach_domaine_de_la_romanee-conti_2010-scaled-1-200x300.jpg 200w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/spinach_domaine_de_la_romanee-conti_2010-scaled-1-768x1152.jpg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/spinach_domaine_de_la_romanee-conti_2010-scaled-1-1024x1536.jpg 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/spinach_domaine_de_la_romanee-conti_2010-scaled-1-1366x2048.jpg 1366w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/spinach_domaine_de_la_romanee-conti_2010-scaled-1.jpg 1707w" sizes="(max-width: 683px) 100vw, 683px" /></figure>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Lewis’s Best 3 Wines from Domaine de la Romanée-Conti</h2>



La Tâche 2010: A wine that still has a long trajectory ahead of it. I was wowed by the aromas of rose petals, potpourri, and sweet cherry. A wine of power and grace, structured fine tannins and an intense energy running through the mid-palate. And then there’s the finish, which seems to run forever.  



La Romanée-Conti 1991: With only a thimble of a serving at a Burgundy La Paulée party, and heady after having drunk around fifty wines beforehand, I can only remember that the wine was majestic and superlative. Nothing else really matters, does it?!



La Tâche, 1978: I tasted this wine once, almost two decades ago, but still remember the taste like it was yesterday. From one of the most iconic Burgundy vintages, ethereal floral aromas mixed with delightful delicate meaty and black earthy notes. Seemingly weightless as the liquid crossed my tongue, there was an enormous amount of power and depth which built into a long and memorable finish.



The 2025 edition of the Golden Vines awards will take place in Miami between 7–9 November. <a href="https://liquidicons.com/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">liquidicons.com</a>



Lewis Chester DipWSET is a London-based wine collector, member of the Académie du Champagne and Chevaliers du Tastevin, co-founder of&nbsp;<a href="https://liquidicons.com/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Liquid Icons</a>&nbsp;and, along with Sasha Lushnikov, co-founder of the Golden Vines® Awards.&nbsp;He is also the honorary president and head of fundraising at the&nbsp;<a href="https://gerardbassetfoundation.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Gérard Basset Foundation</a>, which funds diversity and inclusivity education programmes globally in the wine, spirits, and hospitality sectors.

burgundy

The Domaine

Wine

Wine Column

Why Domaine de la Romanée-Conti Remains Burgundy’s Most Iconic Wine Estate

Egon Müller, the “Wein Keiser,” is a man who transcends not only his wine region, but his country. Twice winner of the Golden Vines® Best Fine Wine Producer in Europe (2021 and 2023), as voted by 1,000 fine wine professionals from 120 countries, there’s a good argument to say that Müller is consistently making the best fine wines on the planet. Once you have tried them, it’s hard not to fall in love.



Curious fact: Egon’s son is called Egon, his father was called Egon, his grandfather was called Egon, his great-grandfather was called Egon (and even his now-deceased Irish Wolfhound was called Egon). This highlights the importance of continuity at the estate and how winemaking is so deeply rooted in the Müller family over many generations.&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/2025/01/Copy-of-IMG_4174.jpeg-683x1024.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234794872" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Copy-of-IMG_4174.jpeg-683x1024.webp 683w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Copy-of-IMG_4174.jpeg-200x300.webp 200w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Copy-of-IMG_4174.jpeg.webp 709w" sizes="(max-width: 683px) 100vw, 683px" /></figure>



As a keen collector of Egon’s wines, I have often tried to work out why his wines are better than those of other German Rieslings. Of course, there are some amazing German wines, in particular, JJ Prum, Eva Fricke (the newest rising star), and the glorious dry Rieslings from Klaus Peter Keller. But none of these touch the heights and consistency of Egon’s wines. The answer probably lies in the Scharzhofberg hill that is immediately behind Egon’s house where the grapes for the majority of Egon’s wines come from.



As Egon’s father, Egon Müller III, famously stated: “There’s nothing more aristocratic than nature.” Scharzhofberg was always considered one of the top vineyards in all of Germany. South-facing, some distance away from the river Saar, the vineyard was considered a cooler site that has benefited from global warming.  Weathered slate above compressed clay soils, the grapes from Scharzhofberg produce a very concentrated, high acidity wine in good vintages.



Egon’s winemaking is no different in essence to that of his forefathers. He doesn’t use skin contact, and likes to cold settle (15 degrees centigrade) for 24-hours into stainless steel. The juice then goes into old fuders (large old barrels) or stainless steel tanks with fermentation finishing around Christmas time. The wines are then sulphured to stop fermentation, helped by the very low pH levels of the Scharzhofberger wines. The wines are left in the fuders untouched until January when the lees will have settled; after which they are racked and filtered, and bottled around March.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="800" height="533" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Copy-of-IMG_7105.jpeg.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234794873" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Copy-of-IMG_7105.jpeg.webp 800w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Copy-of-IMG_7105.jpeg-300x200.webp 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Copy-of-IMG_7105.jpeg-768x512.webp 768w" sizes="(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px" /></figure>



Egon makes a number of wines from entry level “Schwarzhof” Riesling QbA all the way to the mind-blowing, £10,000-plus-per-bottle (approximately HK$95,915) Trockenbeerenauslese (TBA) sweet, botrytis (noble rot) wine that is one of the most ethereal pleasures life can ever give. The good news is that every wine is great, and the lower-end wines are very affordable and, frankly, too cheap for the quality you are getting.



To explain the German wine laws—undoubtedly the most complicated in the wine world—would bore you to tears. What you need to remember is that the sweeter the wine, the more expensive the wine as they are made in much smaller quantities. Higher sugar concentration wines in the same category are known as Goldkapsel: for instance, Egon sometimes makes an Auslese and an Auslese Goldkapsel. To add to the complexity, many of the best barrels of wines are sold off as Auktion wines in the annual Mosel Valley Auction, and are rarer and more expensive still.



If you’re put off by the fact that the wines are sweet, don’t be. They work wonderfully well with Indian and Asian food, and the acidity makes the sweetness less noticeable than you’d expect.&nbsp;



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="622" height="1024" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Copy-of-Egon-Muller_Flaschenfotos-2021-Klein-Web-72-ppi-Egon-Muller_Scharzhofberger-6.jpg-622x1024.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234794874" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Copy-of-Egon-Muller_Flaschenfotos-2021-Klein-Web-72-ppi-Egon-Muller_Scharzhofberger-6.jpg-622x1024.webp 622w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Copy-of-Egon-Muller_Flaschenfotos-2021-Klein-Web-72-ppi-Egon-Muller_Scharzhofberger-6.jpg-182x300.webp 182w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Copy-of-Egon-Muller_Flaschenfotos-2021-Klein-Web-72-ppi-Egon-Muller_Scharzhofberger-6.jpg-768x1265.webp 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Copy-of-Egon-Muller_Flaschenfotos-2021-Klein-Web-72-ppi-Egon-Muller_Scharzhofberger-6.jpg-932x1536.webp 932w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Copy-of-Egon-Muller_Flaschenfotos-2021-Klein-Web-72-ppi-Egon-Muller_Scharzhofberger-6.jpg.webp 1243w" sizes="(max-width: 622px) 100vw, 622px" /></figure>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">The Best Wines from Weingut Egon Müller</h3>



Weingut Egon Müller, Scharzhofberger Trockenbeerenauslese (TBA), 2018: Tasted just after bottling, I was blown away by this heartstopper. The acidity overwhelms the sweetness such that it’s very moreish and easy to drink despite the “thickness” of the liquid. Golden, treacly textured and audaciously complex for such a young wine with just 5.5 per cent ABV, it was one of life’s great experiences to taste. 



Weingut Egon Müller, Scharzhofberger Beerenauslese (BA), 1988: A marvel of a wine. Ripe apricot notes, with hints of sweet spices, and wonderful fresh acidity that cuts the sweetness in half, with a long, glorious finish. 



Weingut Egon Müller, Scharzhofberger Eiswein, 1983: Viscous, deep copper-gold-coloured nectar with an incredible bouquet of treacle, flowers, and stone-fruit that is so thick, it does not easily fall back into the glass after swirling. The acidity fizzes on your tongue. The wine has 260 grams of sugar and a whopping 14 grams of acidity per litre. One of less than 300 bottles made from this legendary vintage that obtained the record price for a German wine at the time it was sold at the Mosel Valley Auction in 1984. The aftertaste is endless. One of the greatest wines I have ever tasted. 



The next edition of the Golden Vines awards will take place in Miami between 7–9 November 2025. <a href="https://liquidicons.com/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">liquidicons.com</a>



Lewis Chester DipWSET is a London-based wine collector, member of the Académie du Champagne and Chevaliers du Tastevin, co-founder of&nbsp;<a href="https://liquidicons.com/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Liquid Icons</a>&nbsp;and, along with Sasha Lushnikov, co-founder of the Golden Vines® Awards.&nbsp;He is also the honorary president and head of fundraising at the&nbsp;<a href="https://gerardbassetfoundation.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Gérard Basset Foundation</a>, which funds diversity and inclusivity education programmes globally in the wine, spirits, and hospitality sectors.

Best Fine Wine

Golden Vines

Wein keiser

Wine P:roduer

Meet “Wein Keiser” Egon Müller, One of the World’s Most Consistent Fine Wine Makers

In the vibrant tapestry of Hong Kong’s art scene, few figures are as pivotal as Enoch Cheng, the curator behind the gallery programmes of <a href="https://artcentralhongkong.com/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Art Central 2025</a>. With the upcoming edition of this popular fair, Cheng reflects on the transformative power of art, particularly in the context of recovery and renewal following the global challenges of recent years. 



As he embarks on his second consecutive year curating the event, Cheng’s vision has evolved, embracing a deeper commitment to inclusivity and innovation. His initial foray into Art Central was informed by a desire to foster connection amidst the post-pandemic landscape. “Last year, my goal was to engage with audiences in the context of post-Covid recovery,” he says. “I wanted to encourage curiosity, and we succeeded in creating an event that many people could enjoy together.” For the 2025 edition of Art Central, he is taking his vision further, focusing on programming that supports emerging galleries, showcases legendary artists, and highlights photography as a significant medium.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="683" height="1024" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/Enoch-Cheng-Curator-Art-Central-2025.-Photo-credit_-Eric-Hong-683x1024.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234795830" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/Enoch-Cheng-Curator-Art-Central-2025.-Photo-credit_-Eric-Hong-683x1024.jpg 683w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/Enoch-Cheng-Curator-Art-Central-2025.-Photo-credit_-Eric-Hong-200x300.jpg 200w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/Enoch-Cheng-Curator-Art-Central-2025.-Photo-credit_-Eric-Hong-768x1152.jpg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/Enoch-Cheng-Curator-Art-Central-2025.-Photo-credit_-Eric-Hong-1024x1536.jpg 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/Enoch-Cheng-Curator-Art-Central-2025.-Photo-credit_-Eric-Hong.jpg 1067w" sizes="(max-width: 683px) 100vw, 683px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Enoch Cheng, curator, Art Central 2025. Photography: Eric Hong</figcaption></figure>



His introduction of the Neo sector last year has invigorated Art Central, providing a platform for new galleries to flourish. “It’s a privilege to grow alongside small to mid-sized galleries,” Cheng states. Many of the innovative projects presented have since garnered attention from collectors and international art fairs, underscoring the role Art Central plays as a nurturing ground for artistic talent. “It demonstrates that Art Central is not just a testing ground for galleries but also a platform for Hong Kong to cultivate a thriving art ecosystem,” he adds.



As it stands, the current edition of Art Central features an impressive roster of 108 galleries and&nbsp;over&nbsp;500 artists, a testament to the event’s expansive reach. Cheng acknowledges the challenge of ensuring a cohesive narrative amid such diversity. “Curation, at its core, is about care,” he asserts. “While exhibitions often centre around themes, I am particularly interested in nurturing an ecosystem that offers audiences a broader perspective on the world.”



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="892" height="1024" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/Emily-Kam-Kngwarray-Amekameke-Sacred-Place-1994-synthetic-polymer-paint-on-canvas-96-x-111-cm.-Courtesy-of-Rebecca-Hossack-Art-Gallery-892x1024.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234795832" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/Emily-Kam-Kngwarray-Amekameke-Sacred-Place-1994-synthetic-polymer-paint-on-canvas-96-x-111-cm.-Courtesy-of-Rebecca-Hossack-Art-Gallery-892x1024.jpg 892w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/Emily-Kam-Kngwarray-Amekameke-Sacred-Place-1994-synthetic-polymer-paint-on-canvas-96-x-111-cm.-Courtesy-of-Rebecca-Hossack-Art-Gallery-261x300.jpg 261w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/Emily-Kam-Kngwarray-Amekameke-Sacred-Place-1994-synthetic-polymer-paint-on-canvas-96-x-111-cm.-Courtesy-of-Rebecca-Hossack-Art-Gallery-768x881.jpg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/Emily-Kam-Kngwarray-Amekameke-Sacred-Place-1994-synthetic-polymer-paint-on-canvas-96-x-111-cm.-Courtesy-of-Rebecca-Hossack-Art-Gallery-1338x1536.jpg 1338w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/Emily-Kam-Kngwarray-Amekameke-Sacred-Place-1994-synthetic-polymer-paint-on-canvas-96-x-111-cm.-Courtesy-of-Rebecca-Hossack-Art-Gallery.jpg 1394w" sizes="(max-width: 892px) 100vw, 892px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Emily Kam Kngwarray,&nbsp;Amekameke &#8211; Sacred Place, 1994, synthetic polymer paint on canvas, 96 x 111 cm. Courtesy of Rebecca Hossack Art Gallery</figcaption></figure>



A notable initiative in this year’s edition is the new Legend feature, which celebrates artists born before the 1970s to spotlight under-recognised figures from the Asia-Pacific region who have made significant contributions to art history. Cheng explains that “to curate this section, we carefully reviewed the artist rosters of participating galleries to identify key figures who have left a lasting mark.” His meticulous selection process ensures that the works presented not only resonate with the audience but also elevate the discourse around art’s historical context. Cheng’s focus on artists from the past is not merely nostalgic; it is a conscious effort to engage contemporary conversations around art. He notes that “these museum-standard artists have not always received visibility in Hong Kong. I hope Hong Kong can play a role in shaping both the evolving art ecology of today and the development of art history itself.”



As the fair approaches, Cheng is particularly excited about the Yi Tai Sculpture &amp; Installation Projects, which aim to transform the visitor experience through large-scale, immersive works. Each year, the projects evolve based on proposals received, with a focus on creating intimate encounters despite their scale. In 2025, “all the works convey a sense of intimacy,” he reveals. From Roxane Revon’s experimental photography installation to Dai Ying’s delicate Xuan paper temple, these installations are designed to engage and inspire visitors, inviting them to consider the deeper narratives behind each piece.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="929" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/Roxane-Revon-Symbiosis-detail-2025-silk-panels-mycelium-wheatgrass-roots-each-110-x-300-cm.-Courtesy-of-the-artist-and-The-Locker-Room-1024x929.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234795833" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/Roxane-Revon-Symbiosis-detail-2025-silk-panels-mycelium-wheatgrass-roots-each-110-x-300-cm.-Courtesy-of-the-artist-and-The-Locker-Room-1024x929.jpg 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/Roxane-Revon-Symbiosis-detail-2025-silk-panels-mycelium-wheatgrass-roots-each-110-x-300-cm.-Courtesy-of-the-artist-and-The-Locker-Room-300x272.jpg 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/Roxane-Revon-Symbiosis-detail-2025-silk-panels-mycelium-wheatgrass-roots-each-110-x-300-cm.-Courtesy-of-the-artist-and-The-Locker-Room-768x697.jpg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/Roxane-Revon-Symbiosis-detail-2025-silk-panels-mycelium-wheatgrass-roots-each-110-x-300-cm.-Courtesy-of-the-artist-and-The-Locker-Room-1536x1393.jpg 1536w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/Roxane-Revon-Symbiosis-detail-2025-silk-panels-mycelium-wheatgrass-roots-each-110-x-300-cm.-Courtesy-of-the-artist-and-The-Locker-Room.jpg 1764w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Roxane Revon,&nbsp;Symbiosis&nbsp;(detail), 2025, silk panels, mycelium, wheatgrass roots, each 110 x 300 cm. Courtesy of the artist and The Locker Room</figcaption></figure>



Art Central’s commitment to diverse representation is evident in its selection of artists from over 40 countries and territories. Cheng attributes this rich diversity to his focus on nurturing a healthy artistic ecosystem. “I strive to ensure a diversity of artistic voices,” he explains, highlighting the importance of broad perspectives in the global art dialogue.



Curating an event of this magnitude presents both challenges and rewards. Cheng manages a significant roster of galleries, personally engaging with around 20 to 30 of them. “Visitors may have seen countless works before arriving, or they may be looking for something different,” he notes. His greatest pleasure lies in the trust built with galleries and artists, witnessing the joy of visitors from all walks of life as they engage with the art on display.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="688" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/Dai-Ying-Temple-2025-Xuan-paper-silk-stainless-steel-Chinese-pigments-280-x-210-x-155-cm.-Courtesy-of-the-artist-and-Yiwei-Gallery-2-1024x688.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234795836" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/Dai-Ying-Temple-2025-Xuan-paper-silk-stainless-steel-Chinese-pigments-280-x-210-x-155-cm.-Courtesy-of-the-artist-and-Yiwei-Gallery-2-1024x688.jpg 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/Dai-Ying-Temple-2025-Xuan-paper-silk-stainless-steel-Chinese-pigments-280-x-210-x-155-cm.-Courtesy-of-the-artist-and-Yiwei-Gallery-2-300x202.jpg 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/Dai-Ying-Temple-2025-Xuan-paper-silk-stainless-steel-Chinese-pigments-280-x-210-x-155-cm.-Courtesy-of-the-artist-and-Yiwei-Gallery-2-768x516.jpg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/Dai-Ying-Temple-2025-Xuan-paper-silk-stainless-steel-Chinese-pigments-280-x-210-x-155-cm.-Courtesy-of-the-artist-and-Yiwei-Gallery-2-1536x1032.jpg 1536w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/Dai-Ying-Temple-2025-Xuan-paper-silk-stainless-steel-Chinese-pigments-280-x-210-x-155-cm.-Courtesy-of-the-artist-and-Yiwei-Gallery-2-2048x1376.jpg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Dai Ying,&nbsp;Temple, 2025, Xuan paper, silk, stainless steel, Chinese pigments, 280 x 210 x 155 cm. Courtesy of the artist and Yiwei Gallery</figcaption></figure>



Balancing innovation with the preservation of traditional artistic practices is a delicate task, but one that Cheng embraces wholeheartedly. He asserts that “tradition provides a framework, but our role is to push its boundaries.” His philosophy is reflected in the Art Central programming, which seeks to introduce innovative works while maintaining a strong foundation in artistic heritage, and the dialogue among all stakeholders—galleries, artists, and audiences—remains central to Cheng’s curatorial approach.



Art Central has evolved significantly since its inception, becoming a vital space for non-blue-chip galleries. Cheng recalls his own journey, from presenting a performance at the inaugural fair to assuming the role of curator. “Art Central has nurtured Asian talent,” he reflects, noting how visibility shapes the global art narrative. “An art fair is not just about transactions; it’s about visibility. Visibility leads to representation, representation shapes reputation, and reputation determines which narratives become part of the larger cultural discourse.”



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="768" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/Sujin-Lee-Way-Home-Night-detail-2022-wool-felt-22.5-x-16.5-x-5-cm.-Courtesy-of-the-artist-and-FIM-1024x768.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234795840" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/Sujin-Lee-Way-Home-Night-detail-2022-wool-felt-22.5-x-16.5-x-5-cm.-Courtesy-of-the-artist-and-FIM-1024x768.jpg 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/Sujin-Lee-Way-Home-Night-detail-2022-wool-felt-22.5-x-16.5-x-5-cm.-Courtesy-of-the-artist-and-FIM-300x225.jpg 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/Sujin-Lee-Way-Home-Night-detail-2022-wool-felt-22.5-x-16.5-x-5-cm.-Courtesy-of-the-artist-and-FIM-768x576.jpg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/Sujin-Lee-Way-Home-Night-detail-2022-wool-felt-22.5-x-16.5-x-5-cm.-Courtesy-of-the-artist-and-FIM-1536x1152.jpg 1536w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/Sujin-Lee-Way-Home-Night-detail-2022-wool-felt-22.5-x-16.5-x-5-cm.-Courtesy-of-the-artist-and-FIM-2048x1536.jpg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Sujin Lee,&nbsp;Way Home Night&nbsp;(detail), 2022, wool felt, 22.5 x 16.5 x 5 cm. Courtesy of the artist and FIM</figcaption></figure>



Cheng is particularly enthusiastic about several standout works that promise to captivate audiences. From Sujin Lee’s tactile felt sculptures to Satoshi Otsuka’s inventive photographic compositions, these pieces offer compelling entry points for engagement. Cheng emphasises&nbsp;&nbsp;that “these works demand to be experienced, to be seen and felt beyond a first glance.”



As an artist-curator himself, Cheng’s own practices inform his curatorial decisions. “Curating at Art Central as an artist is a privilege,” he acknowledges. His holistic approach encompasses the entire process, from initial communications to the visitor experience at the fair. “I strive for transparency and collaboration,” he says, ensuring that every participant feels a sense of belonging in this collective cultural event.



Looking to the future, Cheng envisions Art Central continuing to expand its global reach and influence. “If we remain committed to supporting and growing alongside small to mid-sized galleries, we have the potential to serve as an instrumental model,” he states.&nbsp;



By maintaining direct dialogue with galleries and artists, Art Central creates meaningful experiences that resonate on a global scale as an enduring power of artistic expression. With each carefully curated work and installation, Cheng invites audiences to embark on a journey of discovery, fostering a deeper appreciation for the narratives that shape our understanding of art in the contemporary world, and our attempts to understand it. 



<a href="https://artcentralhongkong.com/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Art Central 2025</a> will take place from 26–30 March at Central Harbourfront.

Art Central

Art Central 2025

Enoch Cheng

Art Central 2025 Curator Enoch Cheng on Creating Connections and the Evolution of the Hong Kong Annual Art Fair

A convenient city location in a secure and private community has always been a hallmark of luxury living. Everyone dreams of a private enclave tucked away from the rush of the city, yet with all the access to everyday conveniences—an exclusive neighbourhood where comfort meets contemporary design, and a home with liveable spaces that reflect your needs and style. But this luxury can come at a cost—a hefty one.



<a href="https://www.m-residences.com" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">M Residences</a>, the estate development by <a href="https://vconsunji.com/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Victor Consunji Development Corporation</a> (VCDC), defies this notion by providing attractively priced landed homes that unlock a wealth of possibilities that can boost one’s life and style.



The property brand has built its reputation on offering exclusive enclaves of beautifully designed homes that set a fresh benchmark for metropolitan living. It continues to deliver on this promise with M Residences Katipunan, the brand’s fifth and latest development.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Metropolitan Living in Prime Locations</h3>



Like its predecessors, this new M Residences project is situated in a strategic area that’s close enough to modern conveniences but still enjoys the privacy offered by a gated residential community. Located in the rapidly developing area of Katipunan Extension in the northeastern part of Metro Manila, M Residences Katipunan maintains easy access to establishments of note, including top-rate schools and universities, vibrant malls, sizeable hospitals, green spaces, and recreational places.



With major highways and public transportation options nearby, residents will also enjoy seamless connectivity to other parts of the city, making exploring the area effortless.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large is-resized"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="663" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/2-3-1024x663.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234795767" style="width:840px;height:auto" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/2-3-1024x663.jpg 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/2-3-300x194.jpg 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/2-3-768x497.jpg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/2-3-1536x994.jpg 1536w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/2-3-2048x1325.jpg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Image courtesy of Victor Consunji Development Corporation</figcaption></figure>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Homes that Evolve With Its Owners</h3>



This master-planned oasis counters the bustle by providing a gated residential expanse that ensures the peace, security, and privacy its residents deserve. Access to the community will reveal a network of landscaped roads that will soon be lined with well-designed units that, even if they share the same aesthetic, will be built differently to reflect the lifestyle needs of each of its residents.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large is-resized"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="663" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/3-3-1024x663.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234795769" style="width:840px;height:auto" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/3-3-1024x663.jpg 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/3-3-300x194.jpg 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/3-3-768x497.jpg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/3-3-1536x995.jpg 1536w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/3-3-2048x1326.jpg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Image courtesy of Victor Consunji Development Corporation</figcaption></figure>



Three contemporary home types, which are available from two- to as much as eight-bedroom configurations, offer a harmonious fusion of space and functionality. With floor areas that range from 99 to 337 square metres, M Residences homes all include parking for at least two cars, a staff room, and provisions for pocket gardens. The cosy and compact Aerin, the expandable Elise townhouse, and the spacious Kiara each provide an efficient use of space, abundant storage, and a flexible open-space layout that allow homeowners, from successful professionals to growing families, to move walls, add rooms, and even floors to provide for their evolving requirements.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="683" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/4-1-1024x683.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234795770" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/4-1-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/4-1-300x200.jpg 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/4-1-768x512.jpg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/4-1-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/4-1-2048x1365.jpg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Image courtesy of Victor Consunji Development Corporation</figcaption></figure>



“This has been one of M Residences’ core values from the start. In all home types, we offer our homeowners the opportunity to tailor the layout to suit their unique preferences and to cater to their needs at different phases in their lives,” says VCDC founder and CEO Victor Consunji.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">A New Way to Enjoy an Urban Lifestyle</h3>



Each home at M Residences Katipunan will feature a new Brutalist design that is a distinct departure from the modern tropical aesthetics featured in preceding M Residences developments. Brutalism first became popular in the 1960s but has seen modern revival in recent years across southern Asia and the rest of the world. Following the tenets of the iconic architectural style, the homes at M Residences Katipunan will feature a raw concrete structure that’s softened by warm wood details.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large is-resized"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="614" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/5-2-1024x614.png" alt="" class="wp-image-1234795772" style="width:840px;height:auto" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/5-2-1024x614.png 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/5-2-300x180.png 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/5-2-768x461.png 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/5-2-1536x922.png 1536w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/5-2-2048x1229.png 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Image courtesy of Victor Consunji Development Corporation</figcaption></figure>



The M Residences Katipunan community goes beyond the home to embrace the lifestyle that comes with it. On top of having a low-density space in a safe and secure neighbourhood, residents will enjoy an extensive range of amenities at the stunning Lifestyle Club, a new feature to be launched at M Residences Katipunan. Set at the entrance of the complex, the club will house a business centre where residents can work and hold meetings, a spa that will offer a range of treatments to soothe both mind and body, and a Bedrooms on Demand facility, with accommodations for rent should residents have visiting guests.



“M Residences has always strived to unlock opportunities for homebuyers and provide them with the foundation on which to build their lives, and our Katipunan development is no exception. In an area dominated by both low-rise and high-rise condominiums, and where landed property is usually astronomically priced, M Residences Katipunan’s homes offer a tempting proposition for discerning homebuyers seeking a dynamic and well-rounded living experience,” Consunji expounds. “Our established expertise enables us to develop premium townships in desirable locations with attractive price points and the added value of space and privacy, not to mention the flexibility to design and personalise one’s own home. All these factors underscore M Residences Katipunan’s status as a distinctive development within the dynamic landscape of Katipunan Extension.”



For more information, visit <a href="https://www.m-residences.com" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">m-residences.com</a>.

Katipunan

M Residences

M Residences Katipunan

property

Real Estate

VCDC

Victor Consunji Development Corporation

M Residences Unveils Its Fifth Development in Katipunan

In the epicentre of Hong Kong, a city synonymous with luxury and commerce, legendary auctioneer Christie’s has established its new Asia-Pacific headquarters at The Henderson. This monumental move not only signifies the auction house’s commitment to the region but also reflects a broader trend in the art market, one that is increasingly influenced by Asian collectors and their growing appetite for fine art. Francis Belin, president of Christie’s Asia-Pacific, recently shared insights into this strategic transition in an exclusive interview with Robb Report Hong Kong and what it means for the future of art auctions in Asia.



<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="Leaders of Luxury: Francis Belin, President of Christie’s Asia-Pacific" width="500" height="281" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/VAQZlH_WD3U?feature=oembed" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen></iframe>
</div></figure>



The decision to relocate to The Henderson, a whopping 50,000 square feet of gallery and exhibition space with high-ceilings and an open, versatile real estate with movable walls and smart lighting, is rooted in Christie’s recognition of the burgeoning market for art in Asia.



“This is the new crown jewel of Christie’s globally,” Belin says, highlighting the importance of a dedicated space in Asia-Pacific that mirrors the established auction houses in London, New York, and Paris. Christie’s new regional headquarters are designed not just for auctions and sales, but to host a year-round programme of exhibitions and events aimed at engaging a variety of collectors and fostering a deeper appreciation for art. It’s the marriage of commerce and community that the city has been missing among art and culture.



Hong Kong’s unique position as a hub for art, watches, jewellery, vintage porcelain, bags, accessories, and just about anything under the vast umbrella of the term “luxury transactions” cannot be overstated. Belin notes that approximately 80 per cent of the value transacted by collectors in Asia originates from the Greater China region, and this demographic shift has positioned Hong Kong as the focal point for operations in Asia, allowing the auction house to engage directly with its clientele and cultivate relationships that transcend mere transactions.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/francis_belin_interview.00_36_08_28.still014-1024x576.png" alt="" class="wp-image-1234792963" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/francis_belin_interview.00_36_08_28.still014-1024x576.png 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/francis_belin_interview.00_36_08_28.still014-300x169.png 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/francis_belin_interview.00_36_08_28.still014-768x432.png 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/francis_belin_interview.00_36_08_28.still014-1536x864.png 1536w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/francis_belin_interview.00_36_08_28.still014-2048x1152.png 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>



Belin’s journey into the art world is particularly fascinating. Despite not having a formal education in art, his upbringing in a family of collectors instilled in him a profound appreciation for beautiful objects. His academic background in business and psychology has equipped him with the skills necessary to navigate the complexities of the luxury art market.&nbsp;



“Collecting is not merely about wealth preservation; it is about finding one’s identity and emotional connection to objects,” he explains. Belin’s philosophy resonates deeply in a market where emotional engagement often drives purchasing decisions. He emphasises the importance of understanding the stories behind the artworks—stories that add layers of meaning and value beyond the palette and their monetary worth. In an era where art is increasingly seen as an asset class, this focus on narrative and provenance is crucial for collectors seeking to make informed decisions, he explains.



Christie’s new headquarters are not just a local endeavour; it is part of a wider global strategy. With offices spanning Mumbai to Tokyo, Christie’s is interconnected with its international counterparts, allowing for a seamless exchange of information and expertise. As Belin notes, this interconnectedness is essential, with a significant portion of the value sold in Hong Kong being purchased by international clients. The global nature of the art market also means that Hong Kong auctions are often a melting pot of cultures and influences, creating a unique atmosphere that distinguishes them from sales in New York or London. Belin highlighted the importance of having a team of specialists on the ground who are attuned to local tastes while remaining connected to global trends. This dual approach enables Christie’s to curate auctions that resonate with both local and international collectors.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="683" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/francis_belin_interview.00_34_48_17.still020-1024x683.png" alt="" class="wp-image-1234792960" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/francis_belin_interview.00_34_48_17.still020-1024x683.png 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/francis_belin_interview.00_34_48_17.still020-300x200.png 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/francis_belin_interview.00_34_48_17.still020-768x512.png 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/francis_belin_interview.00_34_48_17.still020-1536x1024.png 1536w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/francis_belin_interview.00_34_48_17.still020-2048x1365.png 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>



Describing the atmosphere at a Christie’s auction, Belin conveys a sense of excitement that permeates the room. “Christie’s is a very unique place,” he states as we walk by a library of rare art books, “where the essence of eternity meets the fast-paced world of commerce.” Each auction is an emotional journey, not just for the bidders but for the specialists and staff who curate these exceptional collections. The thrill of witnessing a piece of art change hands often transcends the financial aspects, creating a bond between the collector and the artwork.



Belin recounts a particularly memorable auction, where the price of a piece soared dramatically in the final minutes, illustrating the unpredictable nature of the volatile market. Such moments underscore the exhilarating blend of strategy and emotion that defines the auction experience, which must be witnessed in person for the palpable tension. Just look at how&nbsp;<a href="https://robbreport.hk/posts/monets-nympheas-just-sold-for-a-staggering-hk233-million-at-auction" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Christie’s first auction in its new home</a>&nbsp;skyrocketed past the billion-dollar mark.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="683" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/francis_belin_interview.00_38_04_04.still019-1024x683.png" alt="" class="wp-image-1234792962" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/francis_belin_interview.00_38_04_04.still019-1024x683.png 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/francis_belin_interview.00_38_04_04.still019-300x200.png 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/francis_belin_interview.00_38_04_04.still019-768x512.png 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/francis_belin_interview.00_38_04_04.still019-1536x1024.png 1536w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/francis_belin_interview.00_38_04_04.still019-2048x1365.png 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>



Looking ahead, Belin is optimistic about the future of art collecting in Asia. He believes that as collectors become more sophisticated, their interests will evolve, leading to a broader appreciation for various forms of art, including contemporary pieces and lesser-known artists. “There’s a wealth of talent in the region that is yet to be fully recognised,” he says, pointing to the potential for Asian artists to gain prominence on the global stage. “The interest is there; it is gaining momentum.” Moreover, the integration of technology in the auction process is set to transform how collectors engage with art. Online platforms and virtual previews have made it easier for a broader audience to access the auction experience, democratising the art market to some extent. Belin views this evolution as an opportunity to reach new collectors, particularly younger generations who are more comfortable with digital mediums.



When discussing luxury, Belin offers a nuanced perspective that goes beyond mere opulence. For him, luxury is intrinsically linked to beauty and emotional connection. “It’s not just about rarity or exclusivity,” he explained. “True luxury is about the experiences and emotions that objects evoke.” This philosophy is evident in Christie’s offerings, where each piece carries its own narrative, inviting collectors to become custodians of history.



Belin’s vision for Christie’s in Asia is one of growth, connection, and emotional engagement. As the art market continues to evolve, Christie’s stands poised to embrace these changes, fostering a deeper appreciation for art in a region that is rapidly becoming a powerhouse of collecting. The new headquarters are not just a testament to Christie’s commitment to Asia, but a beacon of the vibrant future that lies ahead for the art world in the region.



Original images by Chris Yau, shot exclusively for Robb Report Hong Kong.

Auction

auctions

Christie's

Christie's Asia Pacific

Francis Belin

The Henderson

Christie’s Asia-Pacific’s Francis Belin on a New Home at The Henderson, a Diary Full of Pending Auctions, and Emotional Connection

Annually, we highlight Lunar New Year special-edition bottles from the finest brands in town. Last year, much was ballyhooed about the&nbsp;<a href="https://robbreport.hk/posts/lunar-new-year-2024-3-luxurious-spirits-to-celebrate-the-year-of-the-dragon" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Year of the Dragon</a>&nbsp;and the designer bottles that dropped; before that, the&nbsp;<a href="https://robbreport.hk/posts/martell-celebrates-the-year-of-the-rabbit-with-a-limited-edition-of-its-lor-de-jean-martell" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Year of the Rabbit</a>&nbsp;saw a very special bottle, and&nbsp;<a href="https://robbreport.hk/posts/ruinart-blanc-de-blancs-arrives-in-guangcai-painted-second-skins-at-the-k11-craft-guild-foundation" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Ruinart</a>&nbsp;released a gorgeous artistic drop the year before that. Well, this Lunar New Year, artists and artisans have gone all out once again, collaborating with those who quench our thirst.



As the Lunar New Year approaches, the anticipation for exquisite offerings moves from slow sizzle to the full rage of red. Fine grapes are working overtime to deliver. It is the Year of the Wood Snake, after all, so tapping on those wooden casks and crates, we have found just the right timbre with Penfolds, Hennessy, and Rémy Martin.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="1024" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/PEN-2022-LNY-Snake-Bin707-CabSauv-750-Giftbox-Duo-Cork-1024x1024.png" alt="" class="wp-image-1234795175" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/PEN-2022-LNY-Snake-Bin707-CabSauv-750-Giftbox-Duo-Cork-1024x1024.png 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/PEN-2022-LNY-Snake-Bin707-CabSauv-750-Giftbox-Duo-Cork-300x300.png 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/PEN-2022-LNY-Snake-Bin707-CabSauv-750-Giftbox-Duo-Cork-150x150.png 150w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/PEN-2022-LNY-Snake-Bin707-CabSauv-750-Giftbox-Duo-Cork-768x768.png 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/PEN-2022-LNY-Snake-Bin707-CabSauv-750-Giftbox-Duo-Cork-1536x1536.png 1536w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/PEN-2022-LNY-Snake-Bin707-CabSauv-750-Giftbox-Duo-Cork.png 1600w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>



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



Australian winery Penfolds uncoiled its 2025 Lunar New Year gifting range from the vast stable, celebrating the Year of the Snake. Its limited-edition collection epitomises sophistication and cultural significance, appealing to connoisseurs and collectors alike.&nbsp;



A symbol of elegance and transformation, the snake serves as the muse for this remarkable series. Each gift box is a visual delight, adorned with a unique gold-embellished design that features the snake gracefully traversing the surface in various angles—an artistic representation of its agility and allure. Such thoughtful design is not merely for aesthetics; it pays homage to the zodiac, enhancing the experience of gifting during this auspicious season.



Among the highlights of this collection are the flagship wines, including the revered Bin 707 Cabernet Sauvignon 2022 and the celebrated Bin 389 Cabernet Shiraz 2022. Bin 707, a quintessential representation of Penfolds’s house style, is crafted from intensely flavoured fruit, matured in new oak to achieve a harmonious balance. First vintaged in 1964, this full-bodied Cabernet has garnered a reputation that places it firmly among Australia’s finest. Its limited availability adds to its allure, making it a coveted addition to any wine cellar.



Similarly, the Bin 389, often affectionately dubbed “Baby Grange,” showcases the best of both worlds by marrying the structure of Cabernet Sauvignon with the richness of Shiraz. Its roots trace back to 1960 when the legendary Max Schubert first crafted this wine, which has since become a benchmark for red wines. Presented in both 750 ml and magnum formats, the 2022 release is perfect for sharing during festive gatherings.



Another gem in the series is the RWT Bin 798 Barossa Valley Shiraz 2022, which redefines what Barossa Valley Shiraz can achieve at the highest quality level. Born from a project that began in the early 1990s, RWT, standing for “Red Winemaking Trial,” has evolved into a contemporary and opulent expression. With its aromatic qualities and plush texture, this wine promises a delightful experience, whether enjoyed upon release or savoured over the years.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="683" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/CLVrbnI7-1024x683.jpeg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234795353" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/CLVrbnI7-1024x683.jpeg 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/CLVrbnI7-300x200.jpeg 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/CLVrbnI7-768x512.jpeg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/CLVrbnI7-1536x1024.jpeg 1536w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/CLVrbnI7-2048x1365.jpeg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>



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



In celebration of Lunar New Year, Hennessy has unveiled a stunning limited-edition collection for 2025, honouring the Year of the Snake. A unique collaboration with Chinese fashion designer Qiu Shuting, this launch seamlessly marries tradition with innovation, encapsulating the essence of renewal and transformation that the snake symbolises.&nbsp;Titled “Reimagination,” the collection features striking, abstract representations of snakes that gracefully adorn the carafes of Hennessy’s iconic VSOP, XO, and Paradis Cognacs.



Drawing inspiration from her cultural heritage in Hangzhou, Qiu integrates vibrant colours and intricate patterns reminiscent of ancient Chinese brocade, expertly reflecting the texture of the snake’s scales.&nbsp;Hennessy’s Paradis edition emerges as a luxurious masterpiece, featuring a sculptural snake motif that embodies elegance and prosperity. Each bottle is exquisitely presented in a recyclable gift box, making it an ideal choice for festive gifting or as a centrepiece for New Year celebrations.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="1024" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/remy-martin-xo-cny-25-front-800-desktop-packaging-glow-241105-01-1024x1024.png" alt="" class="wp-image-1234795174" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/remy-martin-xo-cny-25-front-800-desktop-packaging-glow-241105-01-1024x1024.png 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/remy-martin-xo-cny-25-front-800-desktop-packaging-glow-241105-01-300x300.png 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/remy-martin-xo-cny-25-front-800-desktop-packaging-glow-241105-01-150x150.png 150w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/remy-martin-xo-cny-25-front-800-desktop-packaging-glow-241105-01-768x768.png 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/remy-martin-xo-cny-25-front-800-desktop-packaging-glow-241105-01-1536x1536.png 1536w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/remy-martin-xo-cny-25-front-800-desktop-packaging-glow-241105-01.png 1600w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Rémy Martin</h3>



Rémy Martin has collaborated with renowned Chinese artist Huang Yuxing to create a series of exquisite gift boxes for its Rémy Martin XO and Rémy Martin 1738 Accord Royal. Celebrated for his imaginative interpretations, Huang’s artwork, “Majestic Serpentine,” has just the right amount of regalia, and the bottle masterfully blends the new zodiac sign with the distinctive terroir of Cognac’s Grande and Petite Champagne.&nbsp;



Vibrant designs on the XO casing and carafe feature striking serpents and mountains, diverging from the traditional Lunar New Year palette of red and gold—simply the most auspicious of colours. The 1738 Accord Royal canister showcases Huang’s colourful motifs, perfectly complementing the long-barrel toasted Cognac. The full-bodied warmth that this smooth elixir provides is exactly what you need this winter.



All images courtesy of their respective brands.

Chinese New Year Drinks

Hennessy

Lunar New Year drinks

Penfolds

Remy Martin

special edition

Yay of the Snake

year of the snake drinks

Lunar New Year 2025: 3 Luxurious Spirits to Celebrate the Year of the Snake

<a href="https://www.rosewoodhotels.com/en/hong-kong" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Rosewood Hong Kong</a> is kicking off its sixth-anniversary celebrations with global star power.



Now an annual affair elevating the month of March, the “Rosewood Front Row” campaign is bringing gastronomic giants from around the world to Hong Kong for two weeks of special showcases across its numerous restaurants, collaborating with Michelin-starred chefs and award-winning establishments for one-of-a-kind dining journeys to excite the senses.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="683" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/RWHKG_FB_Butterfly-Patisserie_Front-Row_Sakura-Cake_1-3-1024x683.jpeg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234795933" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/RWHKG_FB_Butterfly-Patisserie_Front-Row_Sakura-Cake_1-3-1024x683.jpeg 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/RWHKG_FB_Butterfly-Patisserie_Front-Row_Sakura-Cake_1-3-300x200.jpeg 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/RWHKG_FB_Butterfly-Patisserie_Front-Row_Sakura-Cake_1-3-768x512.jpeg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/RWHKG_FB_Butterfly-Patisserie_Front-Row_Sakura-Cake_1-3-1536x1024.jpeg 1536w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/RWHKG_FB_Butterfly-Patisserie_Front-Row_Sakura-Cake_1-3-2048x1365.jpeg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Saiko Izawa’s sakura blossom cake.</figcaption></figure>



From 12 to 14 March, Rosewood São Paulo’s executive pastry chef Saiko Izawa—who was honoured as Latin America’s Best Pastry Chef 2017—will team up with Jonathan Soukdéo to present an exclusive set of afternoon tea specials at The Butterfly Room, featuring such delights as the guaca ginger coriander sorbet with avocado cream and tuille, fraisier with maté matcha, and sakura blossom cake, inspired by Izawa’s Japanese roots.



Rosewood Hong Kong’s Botanical Kitchen event space will host the highly anticipated Fried Chicken Gala 2025 from 14 to 15 March, with a diverse lineup of chefs and bartenders presenting their creative takes on the humble fried chicken. Li Chi-wai from The Legacy House, Gaurav Kuthrai from Chaat, David Lai from Neighbourhood, and Lorenzo Antinori from Bar Leone will join forces with Susan Jung to craft a tantalising menu for two nights only.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="683" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/Chef-Parks-Portrait-2-1024x683.jpeg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234795934" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/Chef-Parks-Portrait-2-1024x683.jpeg 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/Chef-Parks-Portrait-2-300x200.jpeg 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/Chef-Parks-Portrait-2-768x512.jpeg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/Chef-Parks-Portrait-2-1536x1024.jpeg 1536w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/Chef-Parks-Portrait-2-2048x1365.jpeg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Park Seung-hun of Hansik Goo.</figcaption></figure>



Chaat and Hansik Goo will come together on 18 to 19 March for a distinguished culinary adventure exploring Indian and Korean cuisines, led by Gaurav Kuthari and Park Seung-hun. On the menu, diners can expect a melding of flavours, such as the tandoori king crab with pine-nut sauce, Kristal caviar, and poached egg; the tandoori chicken roulade with black-garlic sauce; the dried daikon pulao; and the Korean beef tartare samosa with gochujang. Make sure to save space for the exquisite masala chai bingsu shaved-ice dessert.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="683" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/Nokx-Majozi_-Head-Pie-Maker-Senior-Sous-Chef_Holborn-Dining-Room-4-1024x683.jpeg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234795935" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/Nokx-Majozi_-Head-Pie-Maker-Senior-Sous-Chef_Holborn-Dining-Room-4-1024x683.jpeg 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/Nokx-Majozi_-Head-Pie-Maker-Senior-Sous-Chef_Holborn-Dining-Room-4-300x200.jpeg 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/Nokx-Majozi_-Head-Pie-Maker-Senior-Sous-Chef_Holborn-Dining-Room-4-768x512.jpeg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/Nokx-Majozi_-Head-Pie-Maker-Senior-Sous-Chef_Holborn-Dining-Room-4-1536x1024.jpeg 1536w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/Nokx-Majozi_-Head-Pie-Maker-Senior-Sous-Chef_Holborn-Dining-Room-4-2048x1365.jpeg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Nokx Majozi of Rosewood London.</figcaption></figure>



Newly opened Marmo Bistro is hosting Rosewood London’s The Pie Room from 19 to 21 March, where head pie maker Nokx Majozi will present dinner specials to highlight traditional British recipes, including Scotch egg with celeriac remoulade, braised beef steak pie with blue cheese and peppercorn, and sticky toffee pudding with caramel sauce and vanilla ice cream.



On 20 March, Indian flavours will find a willing dance partner in Chinese cuisine through the collaboration between The Legacy House and Michelin-starred Thevar. Mano Thevar will join forces with Li Chi-wai to showcase innovative interpretations on traditional dishes, with creations such as the Goan spice xiaolongbao, crispy amadai and sea cucumber with Madras curry, rasam hot and sour soup, and roast duck biryani in lotus leaf headlining the menu.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="683" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/JP_2019_DC_0318Jewel007-1024x683.jpeg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234795936" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/JP_2019_DC_0318Jewel007-1024x683.jpeg 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/JP_2019_DC_0318Jewel007-300x200.jpeg 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/JP_2019_DC_0318Jewel007-768x512.jpeg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/JP_2019_DC_0318Jewel007-1536x1024.jpeg 1536w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/JP_2019_DC_0318Jewel007-2048x1365.jpeg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Jewel of the South is showcasing New Orleans-style cocktail-making.</figcaption></figure>



DarkSide is inviting Jewel of the South, ranked No. 34 on the World’s 50 Best Bars list, to Rosewood Hong Kong for a showcase of New Orleans cocktail-making from 21 to 22 March. Five special creations by the award-winning restaurant and bar will be part of the experience.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="1024" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/Perrier_Jouet_Pierre_Gagnaire-1024x1024.jpeg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234795937" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/Perrier_Jouet_Pierre_Gagnaire-1024x1024.jpeg 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/Perrier_Jouet_Pierre_Gagnaire-300x300.jpeg 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/Perrier_Jouet_Pierre_Gagnaire-150x150.jpeg 150w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/Perrier_Jouet_Pierre_Gagnaire-768x768.jpeg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/Perrier_Jouet_Pierre_Gagnaire-1536x1536.jpeg 1536w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/Perrier_Jouet_Pierre_Gagnaire-2048x2048.jpeg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Pierre Gagnaire</figcaption></figure>



Last but certainly not least, wrapping up the series of celebrations, the legendary Pierre Gagnaire will make an appearance at The Butterfly Room for one day only on 25 March for a limited afternoon tea set featuring four savoury canapés crafted by the master himself.



It’s shaping up to be an exciting two weeks of feasting at Rosewood Hong Kong.



For more information and booking enquiries, visit <a href="https://www.rosewoodhotels.com/en/hong-kong/rw-front-row" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">rosewoodhotels.com</a>.



All images courtesy of Rosewood Hong Kong.

Rosewood Front Row

Rosewood Hong Kong

Rosewood Hong Kong Is Celebrating Its 6th Anniversary With Exceptional Collaborations

One of Japan’s top steakhouses is coming to town for three nights only.



From 12 to 14 March 2025, <a href="https://hongkong.regenthotels.com/dining-destination/the-steak-house" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">The Steak House</a> at Regent Hong Kong will host Osaka’s acclaimed Kitan In for an exclusive four-hands dinner showcase. “A Celebration of Wagyu” will see The Steak House head chef Amine Errkhis and Kitan Group CEO and chef-owner Takeshita Hiroyuki presenting a menu centred around the prized beef ingredient.



Kitan In, part of the Kitan Group, specialises in seasonal aged Wagyu dishes served in an omakase format, and counts such honours as ranking No. 4 on the Top 20 Japan list by World’s 101 Best Steak Restaurants and repeat appearances on Yakiniku Top 100 among its accolades. Bookings are hard to come by, with reservations often snapped up months in advance.



Both Kitan In and The Steak House are recognised on the World’s 101 Best Steak Restaurants list, making this special collaboration an especially exhilarating treat. “Since being awarded one of the World’s 101 Best Steakhouses, The Steak House at Regent Hong Kong has initiated a series of collaborations with fellow awardees on this prestigious list. We are excited to share with our guests a bespoke collection of exceptional cuts from around the world,” says Errkhis.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="683" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/chef-hiroyuki-takeshita-the-ceo-and-owner-chef-of-the-kitan-group-3_54370433980_o-1024x683.jpeg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234795821" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/chef-hiroyuki-takeshita-the-ceo-and-owner-chef-of-the-kitan-group-3_54370433980_o-1024x683.jpeg 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/chef-hiroyuki-takeshita-the-ceo-and-owner-chef-of-the-kitan-group-3_54370433980_o-300x200.jpeg 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/chef-hiroyuki-takeshita-the-ceo-and-owner-chef-of-the-kitan-group-3_54370433980_o-768x512.jpeg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/chef-hiroyuki-takeshita-the-ceo-and-owner-chef-of-the-kitan-group-3_54370433980_o-1536x1024.jpeg 1536w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/chef-hiroyuki-takeshita-the-ceo-and-owner-chef-of-the-kitan-group-3_54370433980_o-2048x1365.jpeg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Takeshita Hiroyuki of Kitan In.</figcaption></figure>



On the menu, diners can expect such courses as the Miyazaki Wagyu with black truffle tartare, smoked bone marrow with Oscietra caviar, mini dry-aged Wagyu bites, beef consommé, dry-aged Wagyu sushi, aged Miyazaki Wagyu steak with seasonal garden garnish, USDA Prime rib-eye cap with thousand-layer potato beef drippings, and more.



“Growing up as the son of a Wagyu cattle farmer, my deep connection to Wagyu was established early on,” Takeshita shares. “Born in Miyazaki prefecture, I was surrounded by the Wagyu industry in my hometown of Miyakonojo. From a young age, I spent time on my relatives’ farms, many of whom were involved in farming; this connection inspired me to become a chef so I could contribute to sharing the incredible ingredients created by my family and friends.”



Armed with expertise in cooking with top-quality ingredients and respect for their provenance, as well as the dry-ageing know-how that Kitan In brings to the table, the chefs believe that the collaboration will be an ideal platform to show the nuanced flavours and textures of Wagyu.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="683" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/the-steak-house_head-chef-amine-errkhis_tomahawk_landscape_52663655657_o-1024x683.jpeg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234795820" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/the-steak-house_head-chef-amine-errkhis_tomahawk_landscape_52663655657_o-1024x683.jpeg 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/the-steak-house_head-chef-amine-errkhis_tomahawk_landscape_52663655657_o-300x200.jpeg 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/the-steak-house_head-chef-amine-errkhis_tomahawk_landscape_52663655657_o-768x512.jpeg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/the-steak-house_head-chef-amine-errkhis_tomahawk_landscape_52663655657_o-1536x1024.jpeg 1536w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/the-steak-house_head-chef-amine-errkhis_tomahawk_landscape_52663655657_o-2048x1365.jpeg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Amine Errkhis of The Steak House.</figcaption></figure>



Errkhis explains that “[our] styles complement each other in a showcase of creativity and a celebration of Wagyu prepared in a myriad of cooking styles [to] reveal the different textures, flavours and versatility of Wagyu, with each dish crafted using diverse cooking techniques that reflect our respective culinary traditions and expertise as well as the finest ingredients.



“Sourcing premium ingredients is key; the best beef from around the world is essential to our craft. When it comes to preparing steak, our foremost goal is to let the beef be the star of the plate. Our approach to cooking is rooted in simplicity and authenticity. We prepare the steak in a way that highlights its natural qualities, ensuring that every bite is a celebration of its flavour. We intentionally avoid overpowering the palate with excessive seasonings or complex sauces. Instead, we want our guests to fully appreciate the authentic taste of the steak itself.”



“In my culinary approach, I combine my expertise in French techniques with an intimate knowledge of Wagyu and a dedication to innovation,” Takeshita describes. “In our restaurants, we embrace a Japanese philosophy by utilising seasonal ingredients and sourcing Japanese beef from my hometown; the menu reflects this commitment with a twist on traditional Japanese essence, featuring dishes like mini dry-aged Wagyu bites and dry-aged Wagyu sushi.”



“Chef Amine and I are curating a rare culinary journey that reveals the different textures, flavours and versatility of Wagyu, with each dish crafted using diverse cooking techniques that reflect our respective culinary traditions and expertise as well as the finest ingredients,” affirms Takeshita. “Our goal is to honour the rich heritage of Wagyu while pushing culinary boundaries, ensuring that every steak served is not just a meal, but a memorable experience.”



With the chefs working together to create a harmonious connection between the two restaurants’ culinary methodologies, this collaboration sounds like a meal to remember.



For booking enquiries, click <a href="https://www.sevenrooms.com/experiences/rhksteakhouse/101-best-steak-restaurant-collaboration-a-celebration-of-wagyu-with-japan-s-acclaimed-kitan-in-and-the-steak-house-at-regent-hong-kong-6675147738857472" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">here</a>.



<a href="https://hongkong.regenthotels.com/dining-destination/the-steak-house" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">The Steak House</a>



Lower Level, Regent Hong Kong, 18 Salisbury Road, Tsim Sha Tsui, Hong Kong



Tel: (+852) 2313 2313



All images courtesy of Regent Hong Kong.

Kitan In

Regent Hong Kong

The Steak House

Wagyu

Acclaimed Osaka Steakhouse Kitan In Is Coming to Hong Kong For a 3-Night Collaboration

mandarin oriental

Mandarin Oriental Muscat

Muscat

Oman

What It’s Like to Stay at Mandarin Oriental, Muscat, an Enchanting Oceanfront Resort in Oman’s Port Capital

It has taken its time, but the&nbsp;<a href="https://robbreport.com/motors/cars/aston-martin-reveals-production-valhalla-supercar-1234624583/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Aston Martin Valhalla</a>&nbsp;has finally made it to the finished line.



The British marque just unveiled the production version of its eagerly anticipated&nbsp;<a href="https://robbreport.com/tag/plug-in-hybrid/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">plug-in hybrid</a>&nbsp;supercar. The futuristic speed machine will launch as part of the automaker’s 2026 model class and is somehow more impressive than what was originally promised.



The Valhalla made its debut way back in 2019 in the guise of the AM-RB 03 concept. Five years is a significant chunk of time and it should come as no surprise that the supercar has evolved in that time, even since the production version was first teased in 2021. Sure, the finished version of the car may look about the same, but thanks to the&nbsp;<a href="https://robbreport.com/motors/cars/aston-martins-formula-1-team-helped-develop-valhalla-supercar-1235041677/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">help of the automaker’s Formula 1 team</a>&nbsp;the hardware is different—and more powerful.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large is-resized"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/valhalla03.jpg-1024x576.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234794261" style="width:839px;height:auto" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/valhalla03.jpg-1024x576.webp 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/valhalla03.jpg-300x169.webp 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/valhalla03.jpg-768x432.webp 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/valhalla03.jpg.webp 1200w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">2026 <a href="https://robbreport.com/tag/aston-martin/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Aston Martin</a> Valhalla. Image courtesy of Aston Martin</figcaption></figure>



The big story with any supercar is bound to be the powertrain, and the Valhalla is no different. At the centre of the plug-in hybrid setup is a mid-mounted twin-turbocharged 4.0-litre V-8. It’s similar to the mill found in the DBX707 but has a flat-plane crank, dry-sump lubrication system, reworked pistons, and bespoke ignition system. Thanks to these changes the engine, which is mated to an eight-speed dual-clutch gearbox, makes 817 hp, which is 77 hp more than the brand said it was targeting in 2021.



That figure alone would make the Valhalla potent, but its powertrain also includes three electric motors, one more than was supposed to be present in 2021. Two of the motors are positioned on the front axle (which gives the car all-wheel drive) and the other is integrated into the transmission and acts as a starter generator. The trio gets its juice from a 6.0-kWh battery pack that can be recharged while decelerating. Thanks to the motors the vehicle can also operate in EV mode, in which it can cover 8.6 miles at speeds of up to 80 mph.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large is-resized"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/valhalla05.jpg-1024x576.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234794262" style="width:838px;height:auto" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/valhalla05.jpg-1024x576.webp 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/valhalla05.jpg-300x169.webp 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/valhalla05.jpg-768x432.webp 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/valhalla05.jpg.webp 1200w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Image courtesy of Aston Martin</figcaption></figure>



When the engine and all three motors are working together output comes to a combined 1,064 hp and 811 ft lbs of torque. The first figure is 127 hp more than the number quoted in 2021 (937 hp), meaning the powertrain is nearly 14 per cent more powerful than expected. Performance numbers remain the same, but it’s hard to imagine anyone complaining. Aston Martin says the Valhalla can rocket from zero to 62 mph in 2.5 seconds and reach a top speed of 217 mph.



That last number is helped by the Valhalla’s rather aggressive aero kit. The vehicle, as is increasingly common in its class, looks like a LMDh prototype racer with slightly cleaner, more attractive lines. It sits low to the ground, has a wide-mouth grille, sculpted curves, and an active rear wing that can elevate up to 10 inches up into the air. These elements combine to produce 1,323 pounds of downforce once you reach 149 mph, helping keep the car glued to the road. It’s also equipped with a set of forward-hinted dihedral doors that open up to reveal a surprisingly minimalist interior. The cabin lacks the flare of the exterior, but the flat-bottomed steering wheel and simplified digital screen setup are nice touches.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large is-resized"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/valhalla06.jpg-1024x576.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234794263" style="width:838px;height:auto" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/valhalla06.jpg-1024x576.webp 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/valhalla06.jpg-300x169.webp 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/valhalla06.jpg-768x432.webp 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/valhalla06.jpg.webp 1200w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Image courtesy of Aston Martin</figcaption></figure>



The Valhalla is a 2026 model and because of that it won’t go into production until the latter half of next year. The marque plans to build just 999 examples of its electrified supercar, which will likely sell quick. No final price has been announced, but it’s previously been speculated that it would cost between US$800,000 (approximately HK$6.21 million) and US$1 million (approximately HK$7.77 million).



Click <a href="https://robbreport.com/motors/cars/gallery/photos-production-ready-2026-aston-martin-valhalla-1236116968" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">here</a> for more photos of the 2026 Aston Martin Valhalla.

Aston Martin

hybrid

Supercar

Aston Martin Just Unveiled Its First Plug-In Hybrid Supercar

<a href="https://robbreport.com/tag/genesis/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Genesis</a>&nbsp;is going after one of auto racing’s biggest prizes.



The Korean luxury marque has just launched a new&nbsp;<a href="https://robbreport.com/tag/motorsports/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">motorsports</a>&nbsp;team called Genesis Magma Racing. The outfit plans to enter its first prototype racer, the GMR-001 hypercar, in the 24 Hours of Le Mans in 2026.



Genesis is following in the footsteps of other high-end marques, like Cadillac and Lamborghini, by focusing its attention on endurance racing first. The new team will be overseen by Cyril Abiteboul and intends to field two hypercars in the FIA World Endurance Championship (WEC) and IMSA (International Motorsports Association (IMSA) series, starting in 2026 and 2027 respectively. The team has already lined up two drivers for WEC races, current champion André Lotterer and Luis “Pipo” Derani, both of whom will contribute to the GMR-001 development.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large is-resized"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/gmr02.jpg-1024x576.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234793987" style="width:838px;height:auto" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/gmr02.jpg-1024x576.webp 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/gmr02.jpg-300x169.webp 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/gmr02.jpg-768x432.webp 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/gmr02.jpg.webp 1200w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Genesis Magma Racing GMR-001 Image courtesy of Genesis</figcaption></figure>



“As we look to push the boundaries of our brand, motorsport allows us to bring the spirit of hyperspeed—which drives how we create and innovate—in a way that aligns perfectly with our core values: Audacious, Progressive, and Distinctly Korean,” Luc Donckerwolke, Genesis’s chief creative officer, said in a statement.



Genesis also offered up a first glimpse at the GMR-001. The all-new vehicle will compete in the Le Mans Daytona h (LMDh) category and will feature a bubble cockpit, giant fenders over each wheel, and an even bigger rear wing. Technical details about the futuristic racer are all being kept close to the chest at this point, but class rules require it to have a hybrid system and make around 670 hp. Car and Driver reports that that a turbocharged V-8 will be at the heart of the powertrain. Expect details to start filtering out as we get closer to the car’s 2026 debut.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large is-resized"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/gmr03.jpg-1024x576.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234793988" style="width:839px;height:auto" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/gmr03.jpg-1024x576.webp 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/gmr03.jpg-300x169.webp 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/gmr03.jpg-768x432.webp 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/gmr03.jpg.webp 1200w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Image courtesy of Genesis</figcaption></figure>



The establishment of a motorsports team is also another sign that Genesis is serious about upping its performance credentials. Earlier this year, the marque announced a new sub-brand called Magma that will build a sportier version of the marque’s cars and SUVs. The line’s first vehicle is an over-the-top <a href="https://robbreport.com/motors/cars/genesis-electrified-g80-refreshed-extended-wheelbase-1235685371/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">G80</a> variant that comes outfitted with a wide-body kit and a specially tuned powertrain that makes over 400 hp. Another special edition based on the <a href="https://robbreport.com/motors/cars/genesis-unveils-first-ev-gv60-crossover-1234631254/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">GV60 EV</a> is said to be on the way as well.

Genesis

Hypercar

motosport

This New Genesis Hypercar Will Race at Le Mans in 2026

The future of&nbsp;<a href="https://robbreport.com/motors/cars/morgan-midsummer-debut-collaboration-pininfarina-1235616962/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Morgan Motor Company</a>&nbsp;is here.



The historic British marque just unveiled its new flagship, the Supersport, on Tuesday. The launch offers a contemporary take on&nbsp;<a href="https://robbreport.com/motors/cars/first-drive-morgan-plus-four-1235836548/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Morgan</a>’s storied designs while housing a bevy of new tech to bring it into the 21st century. The newest entrance on the market is the company’s attempt to rival other daily drivers, such as the&nbsp;<a href="https://robbreport.com/motors/cars/new-porsche-911-carrera-s-more-power-no-manual-1236147636/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Porsche 911 Carrera.</a>



The Supersport shows off some new exterior changes on its aluminium bodywork, such as the addition of a new shoulder line and a boot, which is the first&nbsp;<a href="https://robbreport.com/tag/morgan/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Morgan</a>&nbsp;vehicle to offer one in over a decade. The new car also offers up an interchangeable carbon-composite hard top and a folding mohair soft top, so you can transform it into a convertible whenever you please.



Besides its sleek, minimalist design, the Supersport has plenty of power under the hood, Top Gear&nbsp;<a href="https://www.topgear.com/car-news/first-look/welcome-future-morgan-new-335bhp-supersport" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">reported.</a>&nbsp;The new ride comes equipped with a B58 TwinPower Turbo inline six-cylinder engine from BNW, which has been a longtime partner of Morgan’s auto endeavours. That straight six produces 335 bph for the new car, and it’s connected to a ZP eight-speed automatic gearbox. As for torque, you can expect 369 ft lbs, along with a zero-to-62-mph time of 3.9 seconds and a 166 mph top speed.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/morgansupersportinteriorcloseup.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234796023" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/morgansupersportinteriorcloseup.webp 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/morgansupersportinteriorcloseup-300x169.webp 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/morgansupersportinteriorcloseup-768x432.webp 768w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">A look at the Supersport’s interior. Image courtesy of Morgan Motor Company</figcaption></figure>



The Supersport also houses an all-new CXV aluminium platform, an upgrade on the previous-gen CX Generation Aluminium platform that increases torsional rigidity by 10 per cent. You can gain a further 10 per cent increase if you adorn that carbon-fibre hard top on your new ride. (Suspension mounting point stiffness is up 100 per cent). This new platform weighs in at about 225 pounds (102 kilograms), while the older iteration sat at nearly 214 pounds (97 kilograms). Steering got an upgrade, too: It’s now 13 per cent quicker than Morgan’s previous Plus Six model.



In the interior, that’s where you’ll see plenty of the modern tech shine. The Supersport offers a wireless charging pad, a Sennheiser audio system, and a driver’s digital display. Though Morgan’s classic retro touches still remain, with plenty of analogue gauges in the middle of the dash. The wood on the door card, meanwhile, can be done up in 11 finishes, from engineered marquetry to traditional walnut.



Morgan’s Supersport is priced from about US$110,000 (£85,000 pounds/HK$859,170), and it comes in a plethora of colour combos to tailor the ride to your liking.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/morgansupersportfront.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234796024" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/morgansupersportfront.webp 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/morgansupersportfront-300x169.webp 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/morgansupersportfront-768x432.webp 768w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">The new Morgan Supersport. Image courtesy of Morgan Motor Company</figcaption></figure>



“The launch of the Morgan Supersport marks the culmination of five years of exploration, craftsmanship, and collaboration—our bold vision of 21st-century coachbuilding,” Jonathan Wells, Morgan’s chief design officer, said in a statement. “It has been a passion project for our team, an opportunity to push boundaries and define what a flagship Morgan can be.”



The&nbsp;<a href="https://robbreport.com/tag/morgan-motor-company/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Morgan Motor Company</a>&nbsp;has been releasing vehicles from its headquarters in Malvern, UK, for over 110 years. One of Britain’s longest-running motor manufacturers, the company produces&nbsp;<a href="https://robbreport.com/tag/cars/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">cars</a>&nbsp;imbued with British DNA, mixing modern tech with traditional craftsmanship that’s been a part of its storied history since the beginning.



As for other Morgan launches, the car maker is actually bringing its retro-style&nbsp;<a href="https://robbreport.com/motors/cars/morgan-plus-four-us-version-1236117322/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Plus Four roadster</a>&nbsp;back to the US market this month. It’s a favourite of&nbsp;<a href="https://robbreport.com/style/menswear/ralph-lauren-designer-american-dream-1235202652/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Ralph Lauren</a>&nbsp;(who owns two models), so it’ll surely fit into any car collection worth its salt—the same could be said for the new Supersport, too.



Click <a href="https://robbreport.com/motors/cars/gallery/morgan-supersport-in-photos-1236353881/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">here</a> to check out new images of the Supersport.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large is-resized"><a href="https://robbreport.com/motors/cars/gallery/morgan-supersport-in-photos-1236353881/"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/morgansupersport.png-1024x576.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234796042" style="width:840px;height:auto" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/morgansupersport.png-1024x576.webp 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/morgansupersport.png-300x169.webp 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/morgansupersport.png-768x432.webp 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/morgansupersport.png.webp 1200w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></a><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Morgan Motor Company</figcaption></figure>

Morgan

Morgan Supersport

Legendary British Marque Morgan Just Unveiled Its New Flagship Sportscar

<a href="https://robbreport.com/tag/mercedes-benz/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Mercedes-Benz</a>’s most beloved <a href="https://robbreport.com/tag/suv/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">SUV</a> is about to get a little sibling.



The German luxury marque confirmed on Thursday, once and for all, that it is working on a smaller version of the <a href="https://robbreport.com/motors/cars/mercedes-amg-g-wagen-suv-1234625265/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">G-Class</a>. The news was tucked into a press release from the brand about what it has planned for the next few years.



Rumours about a Baby G-Wagen have been circulating among enthusiasts for years now. They were only given fuel when the automaker’s CEO, Ola Källenius, <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5ofiyr8BNn0" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">mentioned the possibility of a “Little G”</a> at the International Motor Show Germany in September 2023. Now we know that that model is officially on the way, but that’s as far as the details go.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/1-w-pre-media_24c0076_013.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234795753" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/1-w-pre-media_24c0076_013.webp 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/1-w-pre-media_24c0076_013-300x169.webp 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/1-w-pre-media_24c0076_013-768x432.webp 768w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">The all-electric Mercedes-Benz G 580. Image courtesy of Mercedes-Benz</figcaption></figure>



Fortunately, years of speculation have given us an idea of what to expect. The most commonly held belief is that the smaller G-Class will be an electric-only model, <a href="https://www.roadandtrack.com/news/a63853974/mercedes-benz-confirms-smaller-g-class/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">according to Road &amp; Track</a>. This would make sense since a <a href="https://robbreport.com/motors/cars/mercedes-benz-all-electric-g-580-revealed-1235592257/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">battery-powered G-Wagen</a> already exists (though, it should be noted, that Mercedes <a href="https://robbreport.com/motors/cars/mercedes-benz-will-no-longer-go-all-electric-1235521320/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">no longer seems so eager to go all-electric</a>). There’s also an expectation that the new model would be built on a platform that supports at least some off-road capability, as that is a key part of the nameplate’s identity. It’s also been reported that SUV <a href="https://www.caranddriver.com/news/a63856254/mercedes-benz-small-g-class-confirmed/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">would likely be more accessibly priced</a> than its exclusive bigger sibling.



If the Little G does turn out to be an EV, don’t expect it to look all that different from the standard G-Wagen. In the same press release, Mercedes announced plans to alter its current design language strategy and give all of its battery-powered models a much-needed makeover.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/claconcepts.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234795752" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/claconcepts.webp 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/claconcepts-300x169.webp 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/claconcepts-768x432.webp 768w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Image courtesy of Mercedes-Benz</figcaption></figure>



Since the launch of the company’s first EV, the <a href="https://robbreport.com/motors/cars/mercedes-benz-eqc-2850720/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">EQC SUV</a>, in 2018, the automaker’s gas- and battery-powered models have had different design languages. Those with ICE powertrains look like what you’d expect a Merc to look like in 2025, while those with fully electric powertrains <a href="https://robbreport.com/motors/cars/first-drive-mercedes-benz-eqe-1234675210/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">have tended to look like jellybeans</a>. Going forward, each member of its vehicles will sport a single “coherent, status-oriented design language” whether it is gas-, hybrid-, or battery-powered. This will make it harder to identify the brand’s EVs but should make for a better-looking lineup overall. The upcoming CLA-Class is expected to be the first model to utilise this new strategy.

G-Wagen

Mercedes-Benz

It’s Official: Mercedes-Benz Is Making a Smaller G-Wagen

<a href="https://robbreport.com/tag/rivian/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Rivian</a> first limited-edition models were designed for play.



The EV maker has just unveiled exclusive California Dune Edition variants of the <a href="https://robbreport.com/motors/cars/rivian-design-engineering-studio-2848972/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">R1S</a> and <a href="https://robbreport.com/motors/cars/rivian-r1t-wins-rebelle-rally-1235381672/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">R1T</a>. The battery-powered SUV and truck sport a special paint job and come equipped with the company’s all-terrain package.



There will be no mistaking the California Dune Editions for any of Rivian’s other EVs. The limited-edition R1S and R1T come finished exclusively in a new colour called California Dune. The warm earth tone was inspired by the sands found in California’s deserts, according to the automaker, and is accentuated by Rivian’s Darkout Package. The EVs also come loaded with off-roading goodies, including a reinforced underbody shield, a roof rack with traction boards, and spare tires. Rounding the exterior details out is a choice of dark or body-coloured 20-inch wheels wrapped in all-terrain tires.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/cadune05.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234795740" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/cadune05.webp 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/cadune05-300x169.webp 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/cadune05-768x432.webp 768w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Rivian California Dune Edition R1T. Image courtesy of Rivian</figcaption></figure>



The variants also feature a new two-tone interior motif. The lower half of the cabin is clad in Sandstone and the top in Black Mountain. It’s a slick colour combo that pairs nicely with the exterior of the vehicle. The rest of the space has been left untouched, including the 15.6-inch touchscreen infotainment system. Drivers can use the display to engage the California Dune Edition’s “Soft Sand” driving mode.



The exclusive SUV and truck are only available with Rivian’s new Tri-Motor R1 powertrains. The setup, which situates one motor on the front axle and two on the back, isn’t the company’s most powerful—that would be the new Quad-Motor powertrain—but it still produces a more than respectable 850 hp and 1,103 ft lbs of torque. The last figure, in particular, should make driving over the different types of terrain one encounters in the desert a breeze. The R1S and R1T can both accelerate from zero to 60 mph 2.9. The all-terrain tires do impact range, though. The variants offer an EPA-estimated range of 329 miles, which is 42 miles fewer than that of the standard tri-motor version equipped with 22-inch road wheels.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/cadune07.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234795741" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/cadune07.webp 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/cadune07-300x169.webp 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/cadune07-768x432.webp 768w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Inside the Rivian California Dune Edition. Image courtesy of Rivian</figcaption></figure>



Looking for a new EV for your next desert road trip? Both versions of the California Dune Edition are now available to order directly from Rivian. The R1S variant starts at US$105,900 (approximately HK$823,490) and the R1T at US$99,900 (approximately HK$776,835).



Click <a href="https://robbreport.com/motors/cars/gallery/photos-rivian-california-dune-edition-r1s-r1t-variants-1236230434" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">here</a> for more photos of Rivian’s California Dune Edition EVs.

California Dune

Rivian

Rivian Unveils a New California Dune Edition of Its All-Electric SUVs

<a href="https://robbreport.com/motors/cars/gallery/fascinating-facts-mclaren-1235611308/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">McLaren</a> won its ninth Formula 1 Constructor’s Championship last season, a testament to its current and former racing prowess. <a href="https://robbreport.com/tag/mclaren/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">McLaren</a> is still celebrating, in fact, with new exclusive editions of its Artura and 750S supercars with parts inspired by their F1 win.



The MCL38 Celebration Edition Artura and MCL38 Celebration Edition 750S are both signed by Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri, McLaren’s F1 drivers in 2024. Only nine of each car will be produced, McLaren says, with a livery that looks an awful lot like their F1 car, featuring McLaren’s famous papaya and anthracite.



Each version of the <a href="https://robbreport.com/motors/cars/first-drive-mclaren-artura-spider-1235693091/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Artura</a> and <a href="https://robbreport.com/motors/cars/mclaren-750s-reveal-1234834803/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">750S</a>—the Spider version of the latter <a href="https://robbreport.com/motors/cars/mclaren-750s-spider-2025-robb-report-car-of-the-year-1236203394/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">was Robb Report’s 2025 Car of the Year</a>—will feature a plaque commemorating the F1 championship, made in part from bodywork from the marque’s 2024 F1 car.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="577" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/Original-17117-mcl38-celebration-edition-3-artura-e1739980333274.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234795703" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/Original-17117-mcl38-celebration-edition-3-artura-e1739980333274.webp 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/Original-17117-mcl38-celebration-edition-3-artura-e1739980333274-300x169.webp 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/Original-17117-mcl38-celebration-edition-3-artura-e1739980333274-768x433.webp 768w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Image courtesy of McLaren</figcaption></figure>



The signatures of Norris and Piastri are visible on the interior, on a sill cover on the seat headrest, along with a champions’ laurel. There are actually two plaques on each car, one made in part with the carbon-fibre bodywork from the F1 race car, and another plaque that McLaren calls a “track record plaque.” That one is perhaps more interesting, since it lists every pole position, race win, and fastest lap time from a McLaren car in the 2024 season.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/Original-17114-mcl38-celebration-edition-6-750s-e1739980261578.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234795704" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/Original-17114-mcl38-celebration-edition-6-750s-e1739980261578.webp 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/Original-17114-mcl38-celebration-edition-6-750s-e1739980261578-300x169.webp 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/Original-17114-mcl38-celebration-edition-6-750s-e1739980261578-768x432.webp 768w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Image courtesy of McLaren</figcaption></figure>



The MCL38 Celebration Edition 750S features a couple more papaya accents, and both the 750S and the Artura have the number nine in a star logo. Under the hood, the Artura isn’t different from other versions of it, powered by a 3-litre V-6 hybrid powertrain, while the 750S has a 4-litre twin-turbocharged V-8.



McLaren did not announce the pricing of the MCL38 Celebration Edition Artura or the MCL38 Celebration Edition 750S, but the Artura starts at around US$250,000 (approximately HK$1.94 million), and the 750S starts at around US$318,000 (approximately HK$2.47 million). So buyers of the MCL38 Celebration Edition <a href="https://robbreport.com/tag/cars/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">cars</a> can expect a hefty premium on top of that.



All 18 of the cars are likely already spoken for anyway, since McLaren buyers tend to be fans of McLaren’s F1 team, and there aren’t many better ways to celebrate McLaren’s constructor’s championship triumph than with a new McLaren. For future observers trying to discern which trim Artura or 750S they are looking at, the star-logo nine should be the most immediate giveaway.



Click <a href="https://robbreport.com/motors/cars/gallery/mclaren-mcl38-celebration-edition-photos-1236227984/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">here</a> for more photos of the McLaren MCL38 Celebration Edition cars.

750S

Artura

Formula 1

Lando Norris

McLaren

Oscar Piastri

Supercars

These New Ultra-Exclusive McLaren Supercars Celebrate Its Latest F1 Championship

As the Lunar New Year approaches, this is not just a time for celebration, but also for the most prestigious watchmakers in the world to unveil their exclusive, carefully crafted, limited-edition snake- and serpent-themed timepieces—an annual affair that we have come to embrace as artisans and craftspeople of note exercise their deft skillsets in creating absolutely striking (pun intended) timepieces.



Lunar New Year is always a special occasion in the world of luxury timepieces, with watchmakers unveiling exclusive designs that celebrate the rich symbolism of the Chinese zodiac. As the spotlight falls on the Year of the Wood Snake, precision meets artistry in a series of breathtaking creations. From intricate engravings to masterful enamel work, these watches embody not just a celebration of tradition but also a daring exploration of modern craftsmanship.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="683" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/FRANCK-MULLER_2400x1600-1024x683.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234794971" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/FRANCK-MULLER_2400x1600-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/FRANCK-MULLER_2400x1600-300x200.jpg 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/FRANCK-MULLER_2400x1600-768x512.jpg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/FRANCK-MULLER_2400x1600-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/FRANCK-MULLER_2400x1600-2048x1365.jpg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Image courtesy of Franck Muller</figcaption></figure>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Franck Muller</h3>



Silhouette CX Snake



Paying homage to the transformative power of the snake, Franck Muller’s Silhouette CX Snake is a striking creation that blends serpentine allure with cutting-edge technical innovation. Its unmissable ophidian influence is complemented by the debut of the Silhouette CX case, making this piece an instant standout. With only 28 pieces available in Asia-Pacific, the watch promises to be as rare as it is captivating.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large is-resized"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="683" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/BREITLING-_2400x1600-1024x683.png" alt="" class="wp-image-1234794969" style="width:841px;height:auto" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/BREITLING-_2400x1600-1024x683.png 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/BREITLING-_2400x1600-300x200.png 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/BREITLING-_2400x1600-768x512.png 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/BREITLING-_2400x1600-1536x1024.png 1536w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/BREITLING-_2400x1600-2048x1365.png 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Image courtesy of Breitling</figcaption></figure>



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



Avenger B01 Chronograph 44 Cobra



Breitling’s latest release, the Avenger B01 Chronograph 44 Cobra, features a bold take on the Year of the Snake with a striking cobra motif, with just 200 pieces available. Find the hidden-in-plain-sight snake on the nine o’clock subdial, paired with a conspicuous yellow, black, and red colour scheme. A true statement of power with a perfect fusion of watchmaking mastery and striking design, this distinctive timepiece conveys both personality and prominence.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="683" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/LANGE-1-MOON-PHASE_2400-1600--1024x683.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234794975" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/LANGE-1-MOON-PHASE_2400-1600--1024x683.jpg 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/LANGE-1-MOON-PHASE_2400-1600--300x200.jpg 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/LANGE-1-MOON-PHASE_2400-1600--768x512.jpg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/LANGE-1-MOON-PHASE_2400-1600--1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/LANGE-1-MOON-PHASE_2400-1600--2048x1365.jpg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Image courtesy of A. Lange &amp; Söhne</figcaption></figure>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">A. Lange &amp; Söhne</h3>



Lange 1 Moon Phase



Not a snake in sight but nevertheless a special edition launched ahead of the Lunar New Year, we had to embrace this gorgeous release from A Lange &amp; Söhne. Its unique design is such that the watch captures the spirit of the new year perfectly with its off-centre design—a Lange signature, based on the golden ratio—and moon-phase display.&nbsp;Imagine experiencing this masterpiece, where the moon-phase display unfolds before one’s eyes, with a celestial disc gracefully rotating every 24 hours.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="683" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/IWC-Schaffhausen-_2400x1600-1024x683.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234794967" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/IWC-Schaffhausen-_2400x1600-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/IWC-Schaffhausen-_2400x1600-300x200.jpg 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/IWC-Schaffhausen-_2400x1600-768x512.jpg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/IWC-Schaffhausen-_2400x1600-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/IWC-Schaffhausen-_2400x1600-2048x1365.jpg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Image courtesy of IWC Schaffhausen</figcaption></figure>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">IWC Schaffhausen</h3>



Portofino Automatic Moon Phase



IWC Schaffhausen celebrates the Lunar New Year with a limited-edition Portofino Automatic Moon Phase 37 Year of the Snake, available exclusively at the newly reopened boutique in IFC Mall in Hong Kong. Its 37 mm stainless-steel case is paired with a vibrant burgundy dial, symbolising the colour of fire, while the golden moon and stars create a stunning contrast. Limited to just 500 pieces, this elegant timepiece is a perfect fusion of tradition and sophistication for the festive season.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="683" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Hublot_2400x1600-1024x683.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234794973" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Hublot_2400x1600-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Hublot_2400x1600-300x200.jpg 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Hublot_2400x1600-768x512.jpg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Hublot_2400x1600-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Hublot_2400x1600-2048x1365.jpg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Image courtesy of Hublot</figcaption></figure>



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



Spirit of Big Bang Year of the Snake



Hublot’s Spirit of Big Bang Year of the Snake is a captivating tribute to the wisdom, transformation, and allure of the snake in the Chinese zodiac. Limited to just 88 pieces—a lucky number denoting good luck, fortune, and blessings in Chinese culture—this remarkable timepiece features an intricate, gold-plated snake integrated into the open dial. With the snake motif extending across the engraved bezel and strap, it flawlessly combines horological craftsmanship and artistic expression.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="683" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Parmigiani-Fleurier-Tonda-PF_2400x1600-1024x683.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234794977" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Parmigiani-Fleurier-Tonda-PF_2400x1600-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Parmigiani-Fleurier-Tonda-PF_2400x1600-300x200.jpg 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Parmigiani-Fleurier-Tonda-PF_2400x1600-768x512.jpg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Parmigiani-Fleurier-Tonda-PF_2400x1600-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Parmigiani-Fleurier-Tonda-PF_2400x1600-2048x1365.jpg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Image courtesy of Parmigiani Fleurier</figcaption></figure>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Parmigiani Fleurier</h3>



Tonda PF Xiali Chinese Calendar in Rose Gold



Parmigiani Fleurier’s intricate Tonda PF Xiali Chinese Calendar made waves as the first-ever mechanical watch capable of displaying the complexities of the complete Chinese calendar, seamlessly merging Swiss watchmaking with Chinese&nbsp;cultural heritage. Now available in rose gold, the timepiece celebrates the heritage, innovation, and artistry of Chinese history, and its powerful relationship with the cosmos.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large is-resized"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="683" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Breguet_2400x1600-1024x683.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234794968" style="width:840px;height:auto" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Breguet_2400x1600-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Breguet_2400x1600-300x200.jpg 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Breguet_2400x1600-768x512.jpg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Breguet_2400x1600-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Breguet_2400x1600-2048x1365.jpg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Image courtesy of Breguet</figcaption></figure>



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



Classique 7145 Lunar New Year 2025



Breguet’s latest creation honours the elegance and enigmatic symbolism of the serpent, showcasing trademark artisanal mastery through a gold-engraved dial in bas-relief to transform the dial into a stunning miniature sculpture. Open-tipped hands and a delicate profile make this an instantly recognisable Breguet timepiece, revealing the depth and brilliance of the&nbsp;maison’s mastery and horological expertise.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="683" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Longines_2400x1600-1024x683.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234794976" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Longines_2400x1600-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Longines_2400x1600-300x200.jpg 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Longines_2400x1600-768x512.jpg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Longines_2400x1600-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Longines_2400x1600-2048x1365.jpg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Image courtesy of Longines</figcaption></figure>



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



Conquest Heritage Year of the Snake



Conquest Heritage gets a timely new appearance for the Year of the Snake. Chinese artist Wu Jian’an collaborated with Longines on this project to create a design appropriately dressed in red and gold. On the caseback, the intricate engraving shows a serpent holding a&nbsp;lingzhi&nbsp;mushroom in its mouth, symbolising longevity.



<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="1024" height="683" data-id="1234794974" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Jaeger_2400x1600-1024x683.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234794974" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Jaeger_2400x1600-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Jaeger_2400x1600-300x200.jpg 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Jaeger_2400x1600-768x512.jpg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Jaeger_2400x1600-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Jaeger_2400x1600-2048x1365.jpg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Image courtesy of Jaeger-LeCoultre</figcaption></figure>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="683" data-id="1234794983" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/jaeger_2400-1600-1024x683.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234794983" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/jaeger_2400-1600-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/jaeger_2400-1600-300x200.jpg 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/jaeger_2400-1600-768x512.jpg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/jaeger_2400-1600-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/jaeger_2400-1600-2048x1365.jpg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Image courtesy of Jaeger-LeCoultre</figcaption></figure>
</figure>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Jaeger-LeCoultre</h3>



Reverso Tribute Enamel “Snake”



Jaeger-LeCoultre is back with another instalment of its festive Lunar New Year timepiece series, a fine addition for collectors looking to complete the zodiac. Using hand-engraving and enamelling techniques, the Reverso Tribute Enamel “Snake” features a pink-gold case with Art Deco-inspired detailing. A coiled snake motif, enveloped by clouds, stands as the main highlight, powerfully projected off the black&nbsp;grand feu&nbsp;enamel background that has become a signature for the collection.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large is-resized"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="683" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Harry-Winston_2400x1600-1024x683.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234794972" style="width:823px;height:auto" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Harry-Winston_2400x1600-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Harry-Winston_2400x1600-300x200.jpg 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Harry-Winston_2400x1600-768x512.jpg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Harry-Winston_2400x1600-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Harry-Winston_2400x1600-2048x1365.jpg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Image courtesy of Harry Winston</figcaption></figure>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Harry Winston</h3>



Chinese New Year Automatic



Harry Winston observes the arrival of the Year of the Snake with a pair of extremely limited, 36 mm timepieces in 18-carat rose and white gold. Featuring a green-and-red colourway with a diamond-studded rose-gold case, and a blue-and-red colourway for the equally sparkling white-gold design, the mother-of-pearl dial is decorated with a lacquered snake and painted metal leaves, paired fittingly with a red leather strap.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="683" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Chaumet_2400x1600-1024x683.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234794970" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Chaumet_2400x1600-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Chaumet_2400x1600-300x200.jpg 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Chaumet_2400x1600-768x512.jpg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Chaumet_2400x1600-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Chaumet_2400x1600-2048x1365.jpg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Image courtesy of Chaumet</figcaption></figure>



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



Espiègleries Tresors d’Afrique



Not strictly a Lunar New Year watch, but certainly bearing a serpent motif, Chaumet’s Espiègleries Tresors d’Afrique celebrates Africa’s lush flora and fauna, highlighting the snake as the centrepiece of the dial. It features a golden snake set with brilliant-cut tsavorite garnets and yellow sapphires, decorated with enamel and enhanced with a yellow-gold frog and leaves, completing its vivid design.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="683" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/VAC_MdA_2400x1600-1024x683.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234794978" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/VAC_MdA_2400x1600-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/VAC_MdA_2400x1600-300x200.jpg 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/VAC_MdA_2400x1600-768x512.jpg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/VAC_MdA_2400x1600-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/VAC_MdA_2400x1600-2048x1365.jpg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Image courtesy of Vacheron Constantin</figcaption></figure>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Vacheron Constantin</h3>



The Legend of the Chinese Zodiac—Year of the Snake



In honour of its historic ties with China, Vacheron Constantin recently unveiled&nbsp;the latest addition to its Legend of the Chinese Zodiac series to herald the Year of the Snake. An annual exercise to commemorate Lunar New Year, the timepiece features an exquisite dial decoration crafted by a master artisan, who delicately applies enamel powder using a fine brush. Each layer of colour is fired at high temperatures to create a stunning gradient of hues from the centre to the edge.

2025 new watches

A. Lange & Söhne

Breguet

Breitling

Chaumet

Chinese New Year

exclusive watches

Franck Muller

Harry Winston

Hublot

Lunar New Year 2025: 12 Luxury Watches to Celebrate the Year of the Snake

<a href="https://robbreport.com/tag/rolex/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Rolex</a>&nbsp;is rolling into 2025 hot with a price hike on its&nbsp;<a href="https://robbreport.com/tag/gold/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">gold</a>&nbsp;models. For those who bought new models at retail last year, that’s good news, but for those still on the Crown’s seemingly eternal waitlists, that could mean paying more when the time comes to collect on your long-awaited timekeeper.&nbsp;



Hard-to-get and expensive references are becoming even more out of reach. <a href="https://robbreport.com/style/watch-collector/gallery/all-of-rolexs-new-watches-from-watches-wonders-1235575848/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Last year’s gold releases </a>saw price increases of around nine to 11 per cent. The Rolex Deepsea—the company’s shockingly heavy dive watch with an equally hefty price to match—went up from US$52,100 (approximately HK$405,049) in 2024 to US$58,000 (approximately HK$450,918) today for an 11.33 per cent climb. Meanwhile, Everose models, such as the Rolex Day-Date 40 Ref. 228235 and the Sky-Dweller Ref. 336935, rose 11.57 per cent and 9.26 per cent, respectively, for new price tags of US$46,300 (approximately HK$359,957) for the Day-Date and US$57,800 (approximately HK$449,363) for the Sky-Dweller. That’s almost US$5,000 (HK$38,872) more for each and that doesn’t factor in taxes.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large is-resized"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/m228235-0055-.jpg-1024x576.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234794616" style="width:840px;height:auto" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/m228235-0055-.jpg-1024x576.webp 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/m228235-0055-.jpg-300x169.webp 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/m228235-0055-.jpg-768x432.webp 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/m228235-0055-.jpg.webp 1200w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>



It’s not a price hike just because they’re Rolex, <a href="https://robbreport.com/style/watch-collector/rolex-certified-pre-owned-program-shorting-watch-market-1235779745/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">and they can</a>…although they could certainly get away with it. This is due to the continuing rise of the precious metal industry globally. In 2024, gold prices rose by nearly 40 per cent with both consumers and countries betting on the investment due to varying factors from worldwide instability. At the beginning of last year, gold was roughly US$2,000 (approximately HK$15,549) per ounce and was up to US$2,800 (approximately HK$21,768) by the end of the year. According to some jewellers we’ve spoken with, they expect the price of gold to continue to rise and, given Rolex is, on its own, a pretty steady value riser, getting in on its gold models, even at higher prices than last year, is probably a pretty good idea. That is if you can get your hands on them. Pre-owned Rolex expert <a href="https://robbreport.com/style/watch-collector/rolex-paul-altieri-bobs-watches-2723552/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Paul Altieri</a> of <a href="https://www.bobswatches.com/?gad_source=1&amp;gclid=Cj0KCQiAj9m7BhD1ARIsANsIIvDdxplWFHPCPwqGJk2OHAUP8fVClqoGhcjQ72i-8OiZwqNvb-gZxgcaAg1IEALw_wcB&amp;gclsrc=aw.ds" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Bob’s Watches</a> sees it for what is typically the driving factor in the watch world: rarity. “The Rolex price increases aren’t just an economic reaction,” he tells Robb Report. “It’s a recalibration of value in a world where craftsmanship and scarcity remain timeless currencies.” As suspected, he adds that a price increase at Rolex nearly always equates to an increase in demand.



In other words, it may be high time to follow up with your Rollie AD&#8230; again.

Gold Rolex

Gold Watches

Rolex

Watches

Rolex’s Gold Watches Just Got More Expensive

<a href="https://robbreport.com/tag/girard-perregaux/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Girard-Perregaux</a> and <a href="https://robbreport.com/tag/aston-martin/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Aston Martin</a> are proving, for the sixth time, that they’re a perfect pair. The watchmaker and automotive giant just released their latest timepiece collab with Laureato Chronograph Aston Martin Edition, and it may just be poised to be the most popular version to date.



This Laureato comes in a titanium case and bracelet—already appealing for its lightweight feel on the wrist—but its strongest feature is the unusual hue of the dial. Depending on the light, it can either appear as a subtle sea green or an ombré caramel with flecks of sparkle executed in a less flashy way than an added dimension. That iridescence comes from automotive paint—15 layers, to be exact. Layering paint on a car is less tricky than on a dial, where the tolerances for thickness are much more delicate, so the process involved a protracted filtration method to get rid of any residual grains that would harm the small parameters. The color, of course, is an obvious nod to the automotive maker, but so are details on the seconds hand where the base is meant to mimic the air intakes on the side of <a href="https://robbreport.com/motors/cars/1963-aston-martin-db4-series-v-convertible-rm-sothebys-auction-1235245203/">Aston Martin’</a><a href="https://robbreport.com/motors/cars/1963-aston-martin-db4-series-v-convertible-rm-sothebys-auction-1235245203/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">s</a><a href="https://robbreport.com/motors/cars/1963-aston-martin-db4-series-v-convertible-rm-sothebys-auction-1235245203/"> DB4</a>.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="575" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/GP2.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234795720" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/GP2.webp 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/GP2-300x168.webp 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/GP2-768x431.webp 768w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Girard-Perregaux Laureato Chronograph Aston Martin Edition. Image courtesy of Girard-Perregaux</figcaption></figure>



As with the other editions, the branding is minimal with Aston Martin’s logo only seen on the sapphire crystal caseback. “Never, ever you will see the Aston Martin logo on the front,” Girard-Perregaux’s new global managing director, Marc Michel-Amadry, told Robb Report. “It’s always engraved on the back, because it’s more discreet.” The watch itself is more subdued than recent versions of the brand’s partnership with<a href="https://robbreport.com/motors/cars/aston-martin-ceo-adrian-hallmark-interview-1236224647/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"> Aston Martin</a> from 2023, including the <a href="https://robbreport.com/style/watch-collector/limited-edition-girard-perregaux-neo-bridges-aston-martin-edition-1235408297/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Girard-Perregaux Neo Bridges Aston Martin Edition</a> (a futuristic play on the company’s famous “three bridges” design) and its<a href="https://robbreport.com/style/watch-collector/girard-perregaux-laureato-green-ceramic-aston-martin-edition-1234818361/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"> Laureato Green Ceramic Aston Martin Edition</a>, the latter of which was particularly cool but certainly a lot of look to be an everyday timepiece. This Laureato Chronograph is certainly going to have broader appeal as a bracelet sports watch with a versatile dial with a little bit of interesting detail to still make it a talking point.



The Laureato itself, of course, is a classic. In fact, while the Patek Philippe Nautilus may get the bulk of the attention, the Laureato was actually an earlier trailblazer of the ’70s-era integrated sports watch era that has now experienced a rebirth of popularity. It debuted in 1975, a year before the Nautilus. This year, it celebrates its 50th anniversary and Michel-Amadry says he plans to capitalize on the anniversary. He calls the chronograph with Aston Martin the “first of many other initiatives” around the model.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="575" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/GP4.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234795719" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/GP4.webp 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/GP4-300x168.webp 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/GP4-768x431.webp 768w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Girard-Perregaux Laureato Chronograph Aston Martin Edition. Image courtesy of Girard-Perregaux</figcaption></figure>



Just 12 days into the job and Michel-Amadry can already recite the company’s story like a seasoned heritage director. He speaks of many historical moments that are bragging rights for the brand including the Gyromatic, which debuted in 1966 and was the first high frequency movement released by a watch brand three years before <a href="https://robbreport.com/style/watch-collector/zenith-el-primero-history-2845721/">Zenith’s famous </a><a href="https://robbreport.com/style/watch-collector/zenith-el-primero-history-2845721/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">El</a><a href="https://robbreport.com/style/watch-collector/zenith-el-primero-history-2845721/"> Primero</a>, which went on to power many Rolex timepieces in the ’80s. “Girard-Perregaux demonstrated the ability to develop and design highly precise mechanical movements—the ability to have a 5Hz movement with 36,000 oscillations per hour,” says Michel-Amadry with pride. It could be a sign of things to come in the future. And he’s not just an executive, he’s also a client. The first nice watch he bought in his forties was a Girard-Perregaux, a watchmaker who happened to make timepieces in his own hometown. It was a <a href="https://robbreport.com/style/watch-collector/gallery/hours-away-252256/">WWTC World </a><a href="https://robbreport.com/style/watch-collector/gallery/hours-away-252256/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">T</a><a href="https://robbreport.com/style/watch-collector/gallery/hours-away-252256/">imer</a>. “I love that watch and I still believe we need to do something with this,” he says. If the chronograph with Aston Martin is any indicator, good things are to come. Stay tuned.

Girard-Perregaux

Laureato Chronograph Aston Martin Edition

Girard-Perregaux and Aston Martin’s New Titanium Watch Has an Iridescent Dial Made with Car Paint

There are plenty of watchmaking companies (nearly all of them in the high-end market) that love to wax on about various elements of their timepieces as being “handcrafted.” Still, none of them can claim a watch almost entirely made by hand. [An exception would be independent watchmaker Roger W. Smith, who makes roughly just 12 watches a year.] <a href="https://robbreport.com/style/watch-collector/greubel-forsey-manufacture-switzerland-2870061/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Greubel Forsey</a> is the exception. Its first timepiece crafted by hand, the Handmade 1, debuted in 2019 and was notable as a watch made 95 per cent by hand with hand-operated tools—effectively, the way its Swiss ancestors used to make them before electricity and the industrial age. Ironically, that watch has made headlines for appearing on the wrist of tech tycoon <a href="https://robbreport.com/style/watch-collector/gallery/best-watches-of-the-week-from-mark-zuckerbergs-greubel-forsey-to-paetongtarn-shinawatras-patek-philippe-1236155144/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Mark Zuckerberg</a>, who has a slew of <a href="https://robbreport.com/style/watch-collector/gallery/best-watches-of-the-week-from-taylor-swifts-louis-vuitton-to-mark-zuckerbergs-patek-philippe-1235993397/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ultra-high-end important watches</a>, proving he clearly has an appreciation for past technological achievements that continue to find relevance throughout time. This week, Handmade 2 made its debut and boasts a 1 per cent higher handmade percentage than its predecessor. It may seem like a silly exercise in today’s time, but let us explain why it’s important to the industry as a whole.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="575" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/GF1.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234795473" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/GF1.webp 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/GF1-300x168.webp 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/GF1-768x431.webp 768w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Image courtesy of Greubel Forsey</figcaption></figure>



The Handmade watches are about a lot more than bragging rights. When watchmakers Robert Greubel and Stephen Forsey began planning the first model, the mission wasn’t just to prove they could do it. It was about preserving the know-how and passing the knowledge along to future generations. Greubel and Forsey use the exercise to teach young watchmakers the nuance of making a watch from scratch to become true experts in the craft to preserve the tradition at the highest level.



The stunningly beautiful work of horology is 40.9 mm, and everything—save for the sapphire crystals, case gaskets, spring bars, mainspring, and most jewels—was painstakingly crafted by hand. The components that were not made by hand are notoriously difficult to produce. Ruby jewels, in particular, are almost always outsourced by every watch brand. For this piece, however, the <a href="https://robbreport.com/tag/greubel-forsey/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Greubel Forsey</a> team managed to create a conical jewel for the power-reserve indicator. That may sound simple to the horologically uninitiated, but it is, in fact, a huge feat. The handmade components are crafted using traditional watchmaking tools such as lathes, jig-borers, and a pantograph—all hand-operated tools that starkly contrast with today’s pervasive computer-operated CNC machines used in modern watch manufacturing. Each component is manually machined on the Handmade 2 to within tolerances of just a few microns. And, as always with Greubel Forsey, each piece is hand-finished to the utmost standards of high horology—it’s a big calling card of the house.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="575" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/GF2.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234795472" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/GF2.webp 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/GF2-300x168.webp 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/GF2-768x431.webp 768w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Image courtesy of Greubel Forsey</figcaption></figure>



If you think all of that is impressive, then you might find the numerical stats of this watch even more shocking. Just one watchmaker assembles each piece, which has 270 components and requires 5,000 hours of work. It’s certainly not the kind of thing to build a profit on, but of the three watches that will be able to be made per year, those who do get to wear one on the wrist will have a hell of a story to tell. For the lucky few end clients, visiting Greubel Forsey’s manufacture should be a requirement. There, you will see the young watchmakers who are skilled enough to work on a piece of this calibre—a rare experience indeed.

Greubel Forsey

Handmade 2

Luxury watches

Here’s Why Greubel Forsey’s Latest Handmade Watch Is So Important

Vacheron Constantin is following up on the highly coveted revamp of its 1970s-era 222 model, which debuted in <a href="https://robbreport.com/style/watch-collector/watches-and-wonders-1234670325/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">18-carat yellow gold in 2022</a> at <a href="https://robbreport.com/style/watch-collector/gallery/new-watches-watches-wonders-2024-1235570773/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Watches &amp; Wonders</a> in Geneva. The watch, designed by 24-year-old Jorg Hysek and debuted in 1977 for the company’s 222nd anniversary, was one of several sporty bracelet models released at the time. This period also marked the arrival of the now impossible-to-get<a href="https://robbreport.com/style/watch-collector/gerald-genta-2864111/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"> Gerald Genta-designed</a> Patek Philippe Nautilus and Audemars Piguet Royal Oak. Since the resurgence in popularity of these timepieces in recent years, the 222 had somewhat flown under the radar in comparison (save for some savvy collectors who were already snapping up vintage versions). However, with the updated version that launched two years ago, the timepiece was back on the map in a big way. Now, the Swiss house is coming to the table with a release that promises to be even bigger—a steel Historiques 222.



<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/2025/01/vacheron-constantin-historiques-222.jpg.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234794903" style="width:839px;height:auto" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/vacheron-constantin-historiques-222.jpg.webp 1000w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/vacheron-constantin-historiques-222.jpg-300x169.webp 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/vacheron-constantin-historiques-222.jpg-768x432.webp 768w" sizes="(max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Vacheron Constantin Historiques 222. Image courtesy of Vacheron Constantin</figcaption></figure>



The first iteration received plenty of attention and was embraced by A-listers like <a href="https://robbreport.com/style/watch-collector/brad-pitt-vacheron-constantin-1234801687/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Brad Pitt</a>, Michael B. Jordan, and Chris Paul. However, an all-gold watch is still a flashy proposition for the average client, so the steel version will likely be serious catnip for more conservative collectors. It’s easy to imagine it will also be attractive to current owners of the gold version, as the steel model will be less prone to scratching for a better proposition as a daily wear. The steel 37 mm “Jumbo” 222 comes with a navy blue dial, which, outside of the case and bracelet, is the only difference between the all-gold version. Like its 2022 predecessor, it comes with the Maltese Cross accent on the case at five o’clock, a triple-blade clasp, a sapphire crystal caseback for a view of the 3.6 mm-thick Calibre 2455/2 movement, a gold oscillating weight engraved with the 222 logo, and a better-positioned date window. Compared to the 1970s original, the movement has been updated for modern times with a higher frequency of 4 Hz (28,800 vibrations per hour) compared to its previous 2.75 Hz, as well as enhanced precision and 40 hours of power reserve.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large is-resized"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="575" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/VC1.jpg-1024x575.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234794904" style="width:839px;height:auto" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/VC1.jpg-1024x575.webp 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/VC1.jpg-300x169.webp 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/VC1.jpg-768x431.webp 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/VC1.jpg.webp 1200w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Image courtesy of Vacheron Constantin</figcaption></figure>



While it is not a limited edition, you can safely assume the US$32,000 (approximately HK$249,190) steel 222 will be hard to get. Will it be more challenging to obtain than a Patek Philippe Nautilus or an Audemars Piguet Royal Oak? Vacheron Constantin has always maintained a more discreet position than those two brands in the marketplace, so it will likely be a touch easier for now, and that’s part of the appeal. The hype for the Nautilus and Royal Oak has been so exhaustive that even though Vacheron Constantin seems late to the game on the 1970s design revival frenzy, it may be coming just at the right time, with reports of <a href="https://robbreport.com/style/watch-collector/gallery/shopping-time-prices-for-patek-philippe-nautilus-watches-are-dropping-heres-5-to-buy-right-now-1235696618/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">interest waning in the Nautilus</a> (although it is still not easily obtainable in the primary market and vastly above retail in the secondary market). A few years ago, a colleague in Monaco once told us local collectors were already fatigued from seeing the same models on their friends’ wrists and were already seeking alternatives to hype watches. The steel 222 will be a welcome “newcomer” to the established mix.



Click <a href="https://robbreport.com/style/watch-collector/gallery/in-pictures-vacheron-constantin-historiques-1236156492/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">here</a> for more images of the Vacheron Constantin steel Historiques 222.

Vacheron Constantin

Vacheron Constantin watches

Vacheron Constantin Just Dropped a New Steel Version of Its Ultra-Hot 222

Tiffany &amp; Co. has announced the acquisition of a <a href="https://robbreport.com/tag/titanic/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Titanic</a> piece of history. The storied American jewellery house is adding to its great heritage with a pocket watch recently acquired by the<a href="https://robbreport.com/style/jewelry/lvmh-buys-tiffany-co-in-16-2-billion-deal-2883220/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"> LVMH-owned brand</a> at a <a href="https://robbreport.com/style/watch-collector/tiffany-titanic-pocket-watch-auction-record-1235996019/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Henry Aldridge &amp; Son Ltd. auction</a> in the UK in November. The watch was once gifted to the captain of the RMS Carpathia for saving the lives of nearly 700 passengers of the ill-fated Titanic ship in 1912. Tiffany paid US$1.97 million (approximately HK$15.32 million) for the piece it retailed in 1912, solidifying the timepiece as the most expensive memorabilia related to the historic event ever sold.



Adding to the tale of this palm-sized treasure is the provenance of the three society women of the era who originally purchased it: Madeleine Talmage Astor, Marian Longstreth Thayer, and Eleanor Elkins Widener. Mrs Astor was one of the most famous survivors of the Titanic. Her husband, John Jacob Astor IV, perished aboard the ship. Mrs Thayer, also a survivor of the sinking, was the wife of John Borland Thayer II, a director and second vice president of the Pennsylvania Railroad Company. Mrs Widener was the wife of George Dunton Widener, who ran the Philadelphia Traction Company (known for developing cable and electric streetcars). She also survived, but her husband and eldest son, Harry Elkins Widener, perished. The three women purchased the pocket watch from Tiffany &amp; Co. in 1912 to gift to Captain Arthur H. Rostron as a thank-you for saving their lives and hundreds of others in the wake of the tragedy in April of that year.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large is-resized"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/TITANIC_WTH_v4.1_TM_120524_am_V2.jpg-1-1024x576.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234794689" style="width:840px;height:auto" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/TITANIC_WTH_v4.1_TM_120524_am_V2.jpg-1-1024x576.webp 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/TITANIC_WTH_v4.1_TM_120524_am_V2.jpg-1-300x169.webp 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/TITANIC_WTH_v4.1_TM_120524_am_V2.jpg-1-768x432.webp 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/TITANIC_WTH_v4.1_TM_120524_am_V2.jpg-1.webp 1200w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Image courtesy of Tiffany &amp; Co.</figcaption></figure>



Cementing the piece to the event, which 112 years later remains unforgettable, is an endearing inscription. It is engraved, “Presented to Captain Rostron with the heartfelt gratitude and appreciation of three survivors of the Titanic April 15th 1912, Mrs John B. Thayer, Mrs John Jacob Aster, and Mrs George D. Widener” along with Captain Rostron’s initials “AHR.” The date, of course, commemorates the day the ship sunk in the North Atlantic.



The price tag paid for this slice of history may seem astronomical, but when you consider modern watches sometimes<a href="https://robbreport.com/style/watch-collector/most-expensive-f-p-journe-watch-ever-sold-phillips-8-3-million-1235984334/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"> go for even more</a>, it is clearly a coup for the watch and jewellery house. <a href="https://robbreport.com/style/watch-collector/value-of-heritage-increasing-in-watch-world-1234625266/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Heritage departments</a> are becoming increasingly crucial to storied brands not only for archival purposes but also for bragging rights and publicity, as well as museums. “Tiffany &amp; Co. jewellery and objects have been a cornerstone of global luxury since the mid-19th century, and that Tiffany was entrusted to help give thanks in the wake of the unthinkable Titanic tragedy reminds us of our humble role in the lives of our clients,” said Tiffany &amp; Co. executive Christopher Young. “Captain Rostron’s pocket watch is an incredible expression of thanks and gratitude, and we are humbled to welcome this extraordinary treasure home to Tiffany &amp; Co.”

Pocket Watch

Tiffany & Co.

Titanic

Titanic pocket watch

Turns Out Tiffany & Co. Bought That ‘Titanic’ Pocket Watch for HK$15.32 Million

Steve Kozloff is making his marine dream a reality.



The California-based designer, known for penning pioneering <a href="https://robbreport.com/motors/marine/steve-kozloff-2us-sailing-yacht-1234895603/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">sailing yachts</a>, <a href="https://robbreport.com/motors/marine/steve-kozloff-trimaran-trident-1234694754/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">trimarans</a>, and <a href="https://robbreport.com.au/motors/boating/a-hybrid-expedition-yacht-concept-claims-11000km-on-a-single-tank/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">explorers</a>, just unveiled a new <a href="https://robbreport.com/tag/submarine/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">submarine</a> concept that would allow him to fulfil his dream of traversing the deep sea with his wife, Terry.



Aptly christened the Deep Sea Dreamer, the 107-footer allows two or more seafarers to explore the underwater world in complete privacy. Constructed entirely of sturdy steel, the sub features massive viewing windows and a forward observation bubble that provides cinematic vistas of the surrounding ocean. It can also function as a regular yacht should you wish to explore the world above the waves.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/DeepSeaDream_3-1024x576.webp" alt="Computer rendering of a panoramic observation salon inside a submarine, with dining tables, a grand piano, and armchairs." class="wp-image-1234786638" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/DeepSeaDream_3-1024x576.webp 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/DeepSeaDream_3-300x169.webp 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/DeepSeaDream_3-768x432.webp 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/DeepSeaDream_3.webp 1200w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">The panoramic observation salon. Image courtesy of Steve Kozloff</figcaption></figure>



Built for extended expeditions, the Dreamer is equipped with a hybrid diesel-electric propulsion system comprised of two Cummins engines, one electric motor, and 10 directional thrusters. During long voyages, the vessel cruises just below the waterline, with a fixed dorsal providing fresh air to the interior and the genset while expelling the exhaust. Kozloff says this submerged cruising position results in exceptional range, decent speeds, and smooth conditions. The sub has an estimated cruising speed of six knots, a maximum speed of 10 knots, and a go-anywhere range of 6,000 miles.



In addition, the Dreamer can dive to 328 feet and travel up to 100 miles on silent, electric power. The sub can also remain firmly planted on the ocean floor for up to seven days, with the onboard batteries providing power for the week.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/DeepSeaDream_Owner3-1024x576.webp" alt="Computer rendering of a suite inside a submarine concept, showing a bed and cabinets." class="wp-image-1234786639" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/DeepSeaDream_Owner3-1024x576.webp 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/DeepSeaDream_Owner3-300x169.webp 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/DeepSeaDream_Owner3-768x432.webp 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/DeepSeaDream_Owner3.webp 1200w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">The owner’s suite. Image courtesy of Steve Kozloff</figcaption></figure>



Explorers will traverse the seas in the lap of luxury, too. The plush living quarters are akin to that of a <a href="https://robbreport.com/tag/superyacht/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">superyacht</a>. The two distinctive decks offer approximately 1,500 square feet of space for lounging and entertaining. Guests can easily travel between decks using the watertight elevator or ladder tube.



The interior includes an elegant dining area, a gourmet galley, a spacious salon, a forward lounge, a full-beam owner’s suite of 275 square feet, two guest cabins, and crew quarters. The panoramic observation salon is the highlight of the interior, with four recliners on the glass floor enabling guests to appreciate oceanic treasures. In addition, guests can enjoy nearly 2,500 square feet of space on the expansive exterior deck when the vessel is above water.



The sub remains a concept at this stage but Walt Disney once said, “If you can dream it, you can do it.”



Click <a href="https://robbreport.com/motors/marine/gallery/deep-sea-dreamer-1235558165/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">here</a> to see all the photos of the Deep Sea Dreamer.

Deep Sea Dreamer

Steve Kozloff

Submarine

This Insane Submarine Concept Doubles as a 107-Foot Superyacht

We knew the&nbsp;<a href="https://robbreport.com/motors/marine/gallery/yacht-launches-boot-dusseldorf-boat-show-1235471729/2-mayla-gt-speed-3-4-front-view/">Mayla GT</a>&nbsp;would be one of the&nbsp;<a href="https://robbreport.com/motors/marine/gallery/yacht-launches-boot-dusseldorf-boat-show-1235471729/2-mayla-gt-speed-3-4-front-view/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">most exciting boats</a>&nbsp;at Boot Düsseldorf, but a deep dive into the specs shows it could be downright revolutionary. The brainchild of German start-up&nbsp;<a href="https://www.mayla-yacht.com/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Mayla</a>, the 44-footer brings you the blistering performance of a speedboat and the luxe amenities of a motor yacht in one neat carbon-fibre package.



Inspired by the go-fast boats of the 1970s and 1980s, the GT sports an angular, retro-futuristic body and the sleek lines of a rocket ship. Tipping the scales at just 4.5 tons, the lightweight design features a deep-V hull with twin transversal steps and patented Petestep deflectors that help it slice through the waves with ease. In fact, Mayla says the deflectors decrease energy usage by up to 35 per cent while ensuring a more efficient planing.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/Mayla_GT_2-1024x576.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234785191" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/Mayla_GT_2-1024x576.webp 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/Mayla_GT_2-300x169.webp 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/Mayla_GT_2-768x432.webp 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/Mayla_GT_2.webp 1200w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">The range-topping GT can reach 110 mph. Image courtesy of Mayla</figcaption></figure>



The GT is also capable of soaring at breakneck speeds, with the option of a gas, diesel, electric, or&nbsp;<a href="https://robbreport.com/tag/hybrid/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">hybrid</a>&nbsp;powertrain. The range-topping GTR-R model packs dual petrol-powered engines that can churn out 3,100 hp for a top speed of more than 100 knots (115 mph). At the other, more sustainable end of the spectrum, the E-GT is fitted with an electric powertrain that can produce 2,200 horses for a max speed of 50 knots. The hybrid E-GTR pairs that same electric powertrain with a 400 hp diesel engine for a top speed of 60 knots (69 mph). (The GT in the water at Boot sported two entry-level V8s good for 650 hp and a top speed of over 70 knots.)



The GT is suitable for more than just high-speed jaunts, of course. The multipurpose cockpit, which can accommodate up to eight passengers, features a sundeck with sliding loungers, a wet bar and BBQ, and a foldaway dining table for alfresco entertaining. Further toward the stern, a beach club sits atop a garage with an electric transom door.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/Mayla_GT_3_cc0b0c-1024x576.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234785190" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/Mayla_GT_3_cc0b0c-1024x576.webp 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/Mayla_GT_3_cc0b0c-300x169.webp 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/Mayla_GT_3_cc0b0c-768x432.webp 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/Mayla_GT_3_cc0b0c.webp 1200w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">The garage has an electric transom door. Image courtesy of Mayla</figcaption></figure>



The GT is even fit for overnight stays. Below deck lies a cabin with a double bed, sofa, wardrobe, vanity, and en-suite. You can also expect a high-tech entertainment system with TVs and premium audio.



As for price, the GT with the entry-level powertrain will cost between US$1.74 million and US$1.85 million (HK$13.6 million and HK$14.4 million), depending on the final configuration. (You can fine-tune the layout, hull colour, and interiors, naturally.) Interested buyers can set up a sea trial with Mayla, with test-drives set to begin this spring in Europe.

Carbon-Fibre

Mayla

Speedboat

This 44-Foot Carbon-Fibre Speedboat Can Rocket to 110 MPH

The world’s largest <a href="https://robbreport.com/tag/sailing-yacht/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">sailing yacht</a> will be making some waves next summer. 



The&nbsp;Orient Express Corinthian, the world’s largest sailing yacht, will take to the open sea in June 2026, cruising along the stunning French and Italian Rivieras.&nbsp;



Built through a visionary partnership between Accor and renowned French shipyard Chantiers de l’Atlantique, the Orient Express Corinthian blends stunning design with cutting-edge technology. At 220 metres (722 feet) long, it’s an engineering feat, and with three towering masts and 1,500 square metres (16,145 square feet) of rigid sails, the yacht is impossible to miss. 



Altogether, the vessel will feature 54 luxurious cabins, with 48 suites spread across Decks 4, 5, and 6, plus six premium suites on Deck 7—each offering stunning panoramic sea views. Onboard, guests will enjoy five restaurants, including La Table de l’Orient Express helmed by <a href="https://robbreport.com/tag/michelin/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Michelin</a>-starred chef<a href="https://robbreport.com/travel/luxury-travel/the-chefs-shaking-up-monacos-restaurant-scene-1235805961/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"> Yannick Alléno</a>. There will also be eight bars, including a 1930s speakeasy and a Parisian-style cabaret hall inspired by iconic spots like the Moulin Rouge. For relaxation, there’s a swimming pool, a Guerlain spa, and a movie theatre, plus an unexpected touch: a recording studio. 



One of the&nbsp;Orient Express Corinthian’s&nbsp;most impressive features is its revolutionary SolidSail system. This game-changing technology uses three tilting, rotating masts that make the most of the wind, cutting down on fuel consumption and improving overall performance. It’s the first of its kind, setting a new standard in sailing efficiency. The&nbsp;Orient Express Corinthian&nbsp;also features a hybrid propulsion system powered by liquefied natural gas (LNG), significantly reducing emissions compared to traditional marine fuels.&nbsp;



But sustainability doesn’t stop at the engines. The yacht is equipped with an AI-driven detection system that helps avoid collisions with marine mammals, plus dynamic positioning technology that removes the need for anchoring—protecting fragile seabeds in the process. “Inspired by the golden age of luxury travel, <a href="https://robbreport.com/travel/hotels/accor-dubai-holding-fund-orient-express-superyachts-1235526160/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Orient Express Sailing Yachts </a>reinvents motion and comfort on water while being designed to meet sustainability challenges of today and the future,” said Sébastien Bazin, chairman and CEO of Accor, in a press statement. 



For those ready to experience the world’s largest sailing yacht, <a href="https://www.orient-express.com/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">reservations</a> open on 25 March 2025.

Accor

Orient Express Corinthian

sailing yacht

The World’s Largest Sailing Yacht’s Maiden Voyage Is Set for 2026

Your next summer superyacht charter is here.



Raja², a 180-foot superyacht from the Italian Sea Group, launched just last week at the brand’s headquarters in Marina di Carrara, Italy. And it’s ready to make some waves on the charter market when it’s delivered this spring. Priced at about US$344,000 (approximately €330,000/HK$2.67 million) per week, the vessel will become part of the IYC fleet based out of Greece.



If you’re looking to go all-out on the high seas, this is the superyacht for you. Renderings of Raja² show off its maximalist interiors, full of bright artwork, deep walnut wood paired with a lighter, sandblasted oak, and contrasting black and gold marble. With six cabins, the vessel can hold up to 13 guests. That includes a spacious owner’s suite, adorned with neutral hues and a sizeable en-suite, as well as a VIP suite, complete with dramatic artwork and its own en-suite. Six crew cabins, meanwhile, have space for 11 staff members.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/Raja²ownerssuite.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234795713" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/Raja²ownerssuite.webp 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/Raja²ownerssuite-300x169.webp 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/Raja²ownerssuite-768x432.webp 768w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">The owner’s suite. Image courtesy of IYC</figcaption></figure>



As for lounging inside, there’s no shortage of space there, either. The bold design choices continue into the main salon, with its vibrant furniture, and a circular dining area. A standout spot is the bar, where the contrast between the light and dark marble makes the area pop. Here, too, you can enjoy a mirrored surface overhead; the owner requested plenty of them to reflect the sea throughout the vessel.



Heading outside, you’ll find excellent space for lounging amid Raja²’s powerful layout, including the two aft decks (which offer up their own dining areas) and a beach club. The sundeck’s Jacuzzi, meanwhile, is the perfect perch to take in the sea. The proverbial cherry on top is a circular lounge on the upper deck that can transform into a touch-and-go helipad.



With a nearly 30-foot beam and a gross tonnage of 499 GT, the superyacht offers up some powerful muscle below deck. With two CAT C32 Acert engines,&nbsp;Raja²&nbsp;has a top speed of 18 knots and a cruising speed of 16.5 knots. At 10 knots, its range is about 3,500 nautical miles. The garage carries a 26-foot tender, along with other water toys, for fun on the water.



“M/Y Raja² embodies bold and sophisticated luxury, combining exquisite materials and harmonious contrasts to create a unique and exclusive experience,” Gianmaria Costantino, CCO of the Italian Sea Group, said in a statement. “Every detail is designed to offer not only beauty but also comfort and functionality.”



Seems like that’s your summer plans sorted, then.



Click <a href="https://robbreport.com/motors/marine/gallery/admiral-raja%c2%b2-superyacht-in-photos-1236228041/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">here</a> to see more photos of the 180-foot superyacht.

Italian Sea Group

Raja2

This 180-Foot Superyacht Comes With a Circular Lounge That Turns Into a Helipad