Audemars Piguet

There will soon be a new butterfly flying over Southern California. <a href="https://robbreport.com/tag/overair/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Overair</a> today announced the completion of its full-scale Butterfly electric air-taxi prototype. The Santa Ana firm expects to begin flight tests early next year.



Overair joins other California-based <a href="https://robbreport.com/tag/evtol/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">eVTOL</a> competitors <a href="https://robbreport.com/motors/aviation/joby-electric-air-taxi-first-piloted-flight-1235268626/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Joby </a>and <a href="https://robbreport.com/motors/aviation/archer-midnight-evtol-aircraft-flight-launch-1235386743/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Archer</a>, as well as European firms like <a href="https://robbreport.com/motors/aviation/voloconnect-evtol-completes-maiden-flight-1234689152/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Volocopter,</a> <a href="https://robbreport.com/motors/aviation/lilium-special-edition-electric-jet-1234751448/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Lillium</a> and <a href="https://robbreport.com/motors/aviation/vertical-aerospace-first-evtol-flight-1234753186/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Vertical Aerospace</a>, in testing their electric air taxis. A number of these manufacturers expect to have FAA certification by 2025, with commercial operations starting shortly afterwards.



Overair CEO Ben Tigner, according to the <a href="https://www.ocbj.com/technology/ben-tigner-taking-overair-to-the-skies/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Orange County Business Journal</a>, expects FAA certification in 2027. “Shortly thereafter we should be able to begin commercial operations,” he told the paper.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1000" height="563" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/2.-Prototype-Group-Image85.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234782634" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/2.-Prototype-Group-Image85.webp 1000w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/2.-Prototype-Group-Image85-300x169.webp 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/2.-Prototype-Group-Image85-768x432.webp 768w" sizes="(max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">The Butterfly prototype will soon begin flight testing. Image courtesy of Overair</figcaption></figure>



The Butterfly incorporates four 20-foot-long rotors—about twice as large as other eVTOL models—into its design. Overair says the Optimum Speed Tilt Rotor (OSTR) and Individual Blade Control (IBC) technologies also differentiate its electric aircraft from competitors. OSTR varies propeller revolutions per minute to increase efficiency across vertical, transitional, and forward flight phases. It can also reduce power demand during the hover phase—the most energy-consuming part of an eVTOL flight—by 60 per cent. IBC also reduces vibration and propeller loads, resulting in a smoother, quieter flight, according to the company.



“Together, these technologies deliver an efficient, quiet, and reliable propulsion system in almost any weather, temperature, or altitude,” said a company statement. Tigner co-founded Overair in 2020 with Predator&nbsp;drone pioneer&nbsp;Abe Karem, who remains closely involved with the Butterfly project.



The Butterfly will have space for a pilot, five passengers and bags. The zero-emissions craft will have a 100-mile range and 200-mph top end, and theoretically, will be the quietest eVTOL on the market. The company it is designed to have no single point of failure, with the ability to hover on two of its four propellers.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1000" height="563" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/2.-runway_night_V003.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234782633" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/2.-runway_night_V003.webp 1000w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/2.-runway_night_V003-300x169.webp 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/2.-runway_night_V003-768x432.webp 768w" sizes="(max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">The company claims the Butterfly will be the quietest eVTOL on the market, producing decibel levels similar to a normal human conversation. Image courtesy of Overair</figcaption></figure>



After initial testing in Santa Ana, the prototype will move to Overair’s flight centre in Victorville, California, to test in different flight and weather conditions, as well as validating its 55-decibel noise target—equivalent to a normal conversation between two people. The Butterfly can be configured for different markets, including passenger, medical, cargo and military applications.



Overair has signed development agreements with authorities in Arlington, Texas, and Dallas-Fort Worth to explore eVTOL transport from those airports, as well as recently taking orders for 20 aircraft for South Korea air taxis and police. It recently received a US$145 million investment from a South Korean backer, according to the Business Journal.

This New Butterfly-Shaped eVTOL Aims to Be the Quietest and Safest in the Sky

The Best in Aviation, From Bombardier’s Global 8000 to Icon Aircraft’s Icon A5

<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;

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Delta airlines

Luxury Travel

Delta Is Pulling Out All the Stops to Woo Luxury Travellers

The&nbsp;<a href="https://robbreport.com/motors/aviation/starliner-spacecraft-launch-details-1235600665/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Starliner spacecraft</a>&nbsp;hasn’t had the smoothest ride thus far, but it will soon attempt its return home.



The&nbsp;<a href="https://robbreport.com/motors/aviation/nasa-starliner-spacecraft-fly-international-space-station-april-1235487687/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Boeing vessel</a>&nbsp;is scheduled to come back to Earth on Friday evening,&nbsp;The New York Times&nbsp;<a href="https://www.nytimes.com/2024/09/04/science/space/boeing-starliner-space-station-nasa.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">reported</a>&nbsp;on Wednesday, parachuting into White Sands Space Harbor in New Mexico six hours after undocking from the International Space Station. The return will take place a full three months after Starliner arrived at the ISS in June, but it will leave behind the astronauts it delivered to the space station.



“We have confidence in the vehicle,” Steve Stich, the manager of <a href="https://robbreport.com/tag/nasa/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NASA</a>’s commercial crew programme, said during a news conference, according to the Times. “We’ve had two good landings with Starliner so far, and we’re expecting another one Friday.”



In the works&nbsp;<a href="https://robbreport.com/motors/aviation/boeing-starliner-iss-launch-1234680879/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">for years</a>, Starliner finally took off for the ISS with astronauts in tow earlier this summer. But as the craft approached the space station, it encountered propulsion system problems,&nbsp;The New York Times&nbsp;noted. NASA officials said they’re still not sure what caused those issues, but they don’t expect them to reoccur upon Starliner’s return.



Still, NASA decided that the vessel should come back sans the astronauts Suni Williams and Butch Wilmore. The duo will stay on the ISS until February, the Times wrote, when they’ll return to Earth aboard SpaceX’s Crew Dragon. Dana Weigel, NASA’s programme manager for the space station, told the newspaper that Williams and Wilmore both trained for a longer mission, and that they know how to perform spacewalks and operate the ISS’s robotic arm.



“We had them well prepared to move into this role,” she said.



As for what will happen with Starliner after it returns to Earth, it’s not clear what NASA has planned. The most recent flight to the ISS was supposed to be the space agency’s last step in making sure that the craft could take astronauts to the space station once a year,&nbsp;The New York Times&nbsp;reported. Now, NASA could ask&nbsp;<a href="https://robbreport.com/tag/boeing/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Boeing</a>&nbsp;to undertake another crewed test flight before those more regular trips begin. (Last month, NASA Administrator Bill Nelson said that Kelly Ortberg, the new CEO of Boeing, had told him that the company would continue to work on Starliner.)



The first step, though, will be the craft’s return home tomorrow. If weather or technical issues force a delay, backup dates are set for 10, 14, and 18 September.

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starliner spacecraft return

Boeing’s Starliner Spacecraft Is Coming Back to Earth—Without NASA Astronauts

Jet-setters just got a luxurious new way to travel between&nbsp;<a href="https://robbreport.com/tag/italy/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Italy</a> and the dreamy islands of South Asia.



<a href="https://robbreport.com/tag/beond/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Beond</a>, which markets itself as “the world’s first <a href="https://robbreport.com/motors/aviation/beond-aviation-start-up-maldives-1235562349/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">luxury leisure airline</a>,” recently <a href="https://flybeond.com/latestnews" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">launched flights</a> between <a href="https://robbreport.com/tag/milan/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Milan</a> and the <a href="https://robbreport.com/tag/maldives/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Maldives</a>. The new route connects Malpensa (MXP) and Malé (MLE), with a 45-minute refuelling break in Dubai in between. (Guests remain onboard during the brief stopover.) The flight takes roughly 12 hours and runs twice a week on Wednesdays and Saturdays.



Milan is the third addition to Beond’s European network, which includes Munich, Germany, and Zurich, Switzerland. The airline recently decided to reduce flights to Munich (MUC) and Zurich (ZRH) due to seasonal demand and therefore could launch the new service.



<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/2024/08/Beond_1-1024x683.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234790465" style="width:680px;height:auto" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Beond_1-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Beond_1-300x200.jpg 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Beond_1-768x512.jpg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Beond_1-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Beond_1-2048x1365.jpg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">The seats were designed by Optimares and upholstered by Poltrona Frau. Image courtesy of Matheen Faiz</figcaption></figure>



Beond enlisted Poltrona Frau to help glamorise the first aircraft on the Milan-Malé route. The renowned Italian furniture brand upholstered all 44 lie-flat <a href="https://robbreport.com/tag/business-class/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">business-class</a> seats on the specially designed Airbus A319. Designed by Optimares, each seat was handmade by artisans using full-grain Pelle Frau leather from Poltrona Frau. They also feature unique quilting that ensures more comfort than the typical aircraft seat, according to Beond.



“Partners like Poltrona Frau and Optimares were instrumental in the design of our luxurious cabin,” Beond CEO Tero Taskila said in a statement. “They understood from the outset our vision for customer comfort.”



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large is-resized"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="683" height="1024" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Beond_4-683x1024.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234790466" style="width:680px;height:auto" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Beond_4-683x1024.jpg 683w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Beond_4-200x300.jpg 200w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Beond_4-768x1152.jpg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Beond_4-1024x1536.jpg 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Beond_4-1365x2048.jpg 1365w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Beond_4.jpg 1600w" sizes="(max-width: 683px) 100vw, 683px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">The lie-flat seat.</figcaption></figure>



The cabin décor echoes the dark charcoal livery of the A319. The white leather seats and light walls are elegantly juxtaposed with dark flooring. Seats are in pairs on both sides of the aisle, with enough room in between that each passenger can stretch out and catch Zs. In the air, fliers can expect professional service, top-notch fare, iPads, and Bose headphones.



<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/2024/08/Beond_3-1024x683.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234790467" style="width:680px;height:auto" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Beond_3-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Beond_3-300x200.jpg 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Beond_3-768x512.jpg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Beond_3-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Beond_3-2048x1365.jpg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">The iPad and Bose headphones.</figcaption></figure>



For the unversed, Beond offers three types of “experiences”: Delight, Bliss, or Opulence. Delight is the least expensive fare and offers the fewest perks. Bliss includes access to the airport lounges and premium seat selection. Opulence has those perks, plus a private chauffeur transfer, a more generous baggage allowance, free booking changes, and access to an&nbsp;<a href="https://robbreport.com/motors/aviation/beond-maldives-apple-vision-pro-1235524165/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Apple Vision Pro</a>&nbsp;headset.&nbsp;Robb Report&nbsp;<a href="https://robbreport.com/motors/aviation/beond-aviation-start-up-maldives-1235562349/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">recently flew “Bliss”</a>&nbsp;from Zurich to the Malé, awarding the overall experience four stars out of five.



Beond recently took delivery of a second aircraft, with the Airbus A321 currently undergoing refurbishment. Look for more new routes soon, then.

Beond

italy

jetsetting

luxury aircrafts

luxury leisure

Maldives

Milan

Luxury Airline Beond Is Now Flying Between Milan and the Maldives

Heart Aerospace is almost ready for takeoff.



The Swedish outfit is set to launch its&nbsp;<a href="https://robbreport.com/tag/hybrid/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">hybrid</a>-electric airplane in 2028, after reaching several significant milestones in the past few months.



First unveiled in 2022, the&nbsp;<a href="https://heartaerospace.com/newsroom/heart-aerospace-unveils-new-airplane-design-confirms-air-canada-and-saab-as-new-shareholders/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ES-30</a>&nbsp;is designed to make regional travel cleaner and more efficient. (<a href="https://robbreport.com/motors/aviation/gallery/regional-aircraft-electric-vtols-1235523846/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nine other companies</a>&nbsp;have developed concepts to do the same.) The hybrid can run on either lithium-ion batteries or sustainable aviation fuel (SAF), meaning it will produce fewer emissions than traditional&nbsp;<a href="https://robbreport.com/tag/aircraft/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">aircraft</a>. It will also be cheaper to operate than conventional competitors, according to Heart.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full is-resized"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="2400" height="1600" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Heart_ES_301.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234790041" style="width:680px;height:auto" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Heart_ES_301.jpg 2400w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Heart_ES_301-300x200.jpg 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Heart_ES_301-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Heart_ES_301-768x512.jpg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Heart_ES_301-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Heart_ES_301-2048x1365.jpg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 2400px) 100vw, 2400px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">The onboard batteries. Image courtesy of Heart Aerospace</figcaption></figure>



Powered by four electric motors, the ES-30 can fly 124 miles in emissions-free “electric mode” or 249 miles in “hybrid mode” with the help of two turbo generators. The reserve-hybrid system means that the generators only kick in when additional grunt is needed on longer routes. The ES-30 will also be quieter than gas-powered craft and can take off from runways as short as 3,609 feet.



The ES-30 will offer all the usual creature comforts, too. The spacious cabin features three-abreast seating that can accommodate up to 30 fliers. (Having 25 passengers aboard increases the hybrid range to 497 miles.) The interior also features a galley, a lavatory, and large overhead bins to ensure a comfortable in-flight experience.



Heart has a rather aggressive timeline, but is making solid progress. The company opened a new research and development hub in the United States in May to speed up the development of the ES-30. The team plans to test the propulsion system on a full-scale demonstrator and showcase fully electric flight in 2025. It will then pursue type certification in 2028.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full is-resized"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="2400" height="1600" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Heart_ES_303.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234790042" style="width:680px;height:auto" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Heart_ES_303.jpg 2400w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Heart_ES_303-300x200.jpg 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Heart_ES_303-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Heart_ES_303-768x512.jpg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Heart_ES_303-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Heart_ES_303-2048x1365.jpg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 2400px) 100vw, 2400px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">The ES-30 in flight. Image courtesy of Heart Aerospace</figcaption></figure>



Heart has a decent amount of backing, too. It has already raised US$145 million (HK$1.13 billion) in development funding from significant industry players like <a href="https://robbreport.com/motors/aviation/united-airlines-100-electric-planes-from-swedish-1234625038/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">United Airlines</a>, Air Canada, and Saab.



“Heart Aerospace has just entered an exciting new phase of hardware testing, and our aim is to have a hybrid-electric passenger plane on the market before the end of this decade;” Heart Aerospace CEO and co-founder Anders Forslund said in a <a href="https://heartaerospace.com/newsroom/swedish-region-gotland-partners-with-heart-aerospace-for-sustainable-aviation/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">statement</a>. “As we get closer to this goal, collaborations with airports, operators, and regional authorities are crucial to ensure the eco-system needed to support electric aviation.



Heart has secured 250 orders for the ES-30, with purchase rights for another 120 planes. It has also received letters of intent for a further 191 aircraft.

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clean travel

electric aviation

Heart Aerospace

hybrid-electric airplane

Swedish

This New Hybrid-Electric Airliner Could Hit the Skies by 2028

More than a residential enclave, the Peak encapsulates the history of Hong Kong and serves as a symbolic pinnacle of its success and resilience.&nbsp;Rising majestically above the Victoria Harbour, the Peak has long been hailed as the pinnacle of luxury living in Hong Kong. Since the colonial era, this elevated haven has been reserved for society’s most privileged, offering a rare blend of exclusivity, prestige, and natural beauty.



It’s here that Hong Kong’s iconic skyline converges with serene, verdant greenery, granting a fortunate few breathtaking views of the city and the ocean beyond, cool mountain breezes, and an unrivalled escape from the frenetic energy below.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="682" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/1-Plantation-Road-Edited-Selects-2-2-1024x682.jpeg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234794406" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/1-Plantation-Road-Edited-Selects-2-2-1024x682.jpeg 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/1-Plantation-Road-Edited-Selects-2-2-300x200.jpeg 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/1-Plantation-Road-Edited-Selects-2-2-768x511.jpeg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/1-Plantation-Road-Edited-Selects-2-2-1536x1023.jpeg 1536w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/1-Plantation-Road-Edited-Selects-2-2-2048x1364.jpeg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>



The Peak’s timeless appeal stems from its blend of history, natural beauty, and architectural sophistication. Over a century of careful preservation and reinvention has solidified its reputation as Hong Kong’s most sought-after address and one of the world’s best-known residential locations—a legacy that Wheelock Properties has seamlessly woven into its portfolio of prime properties across this enclave.&nbsp;



As a subsidiary of the 150-year-old Wheelock and Company, Wheelock Properties has grown alongside Hong Kong, having shaped the city’s urban landscape and become one of its most respected names in real estate.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">A Storied Past</h3>



The Peak’s transformation into arguably Asia’s most luxurious residential address began in the mid-19th century when British colonial settlers sought refuge from Hong Kong’s tropical humidity. Rising over 500 metres above sea level, Victoria Peak—simply known as “the Peak”—offered a cool, verdant retreat that quickly became synonymous with privilege.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="683" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Craigieburn_Effect_2_C-1-1024x683.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234794467" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Craigieburn_Effect_2_C-1-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Craigieburn_Effect_2_C-1-300x200.jpg 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Craigieburn_Effect_2_C-1-768x512.jpg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Craigieburn_Effect_2_C-1-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Craigieburn_Effect_2_C-1-2048x1365.jpg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>



Grand mansions and sprawling estates soon dotted the landscape, creating a community that epitomised exclusivity. Access to the area improved dramatically with the construction of the Peak Tram in 1888, allowing wealthy expatriates to ascend with ease. In the 20th century, the Peak’s exclusivity transformed, no longer dictated by legislation but by the financial means required to attain it, ensuring its accessibility remained restricted to a privileged few.&nbsp;



Today, the Peak serves as a cultural and architectural time capsule, a place where heritage whispers through every tree-lined driveway and meticulously preserved estate. For many families, homes on the Peak are cherished legacies, passed down through generations.&nbsp;



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Where Taipans Call Home</h3>



Among the prestigious addresses of the Peak lies Plantation Road, affectionately known as “Bankers Road.” Its storied history is tied to the financial elite, particularly during the late 19th and early 20th centuries, when expatriate taipans and senior bankers of leading financial institutions such as HSBC and Standard Chartered established grand residences along this prestigious avenue.



“More than a residential enclave, the Peak encapsulates the history of Hong Kong and serves as a symbolic pinnacle of its success and resilience. Here, every street and home tell a story. Plantation Road, or as many know it—‘Bankers Road’—is iconic because it has always been home to some of the most influential figures in this city’s history,” says Ricky Wong, managing director of Wheelock Properties.



Perched on an elevated hillside, tucked away from the main road and accessible via a peaceful driveway, properties on Plantation Road offer unique vantage points overlooking either the tranquil greenery of the Peak or the iconic harbour. Some homes even boast the best views of both worlds.&nbsp;



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">1 Plantation Road: A Bespoke Masterpiece</h3>



One of Wheelock Properties’ newest jewels, 1 Plantation Road is a bespoke collection of 20 meticulously crafted residences. Each home is thoughtfully designed to meet the unique needs of its owners, featuring expansive gardens and interiors adorned with handpicked materials, balancing aesthetics and functionality seamlessly.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="683" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/1-Plantation-Road-Edited-Selects-20-1024x683.jpeg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234794398" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/1-Plantation-Road-Edited-Selects-20-1024x683.jpeg 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/1-Plantation-Road-Edited-Selects-20-300x200.jpeg 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/1-Plantation-Road-Edited-Selects-20-768x512.jpeg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/1-Plantation-Road-Edited-Selects-20-1536x1024.jpeg 1536w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/1-Plantation-Road-Edited-Selects-20-2048x1365.jpeg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>



“Each home we build has its own identity. At 1 Plantation Road, no two houses are alike because we understand that discerning buyers seek unique residences that reflect their values—lifestyle, privacy, and harmony with their surroundings,” Wong adds, noting that sustainability is another priority for today’s discerning buyers. “That’s why 1 Plantation Road also incorporates advanced green building features, vertical greenery, and filtered water systems, to name a few.”&nbsp;



Even the private garage is designed to evoke the comfort of home. “When owners drive back, they aren’t greeted by a cold, utilitarian concrete box but by a warm, inviting space that feels like home sweet home,” he describes.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">The Peak Collection</h3>



In addition to the 1 Plantation Road development, the company’s Peak Collection offers an array of equally remarkable residences, each uniquely embodying a commitment to innovation and heritage preservation.



A tribute to colonial elegance, 77/79 Peak Road comprises eight luxury houses that seamlessly blend tradition with modernity. European-inspired interiors, enhanced by contemporary functionality, are set against a backdrop of verdant greenery, ensuring an atmosphere of exclusivity.



Widely celebrated as the “Crown Jewel of The Peak,” Mount Nicholson—a collaboration between Wheelock Properties and Nan Fung—offers a harmonious mix of apartments and houses. Architecturally designed by the world-renowned Robert A. M. Stern Architects, each residence is meticulously crafted with expansive layouts and breathtaking views, complete with the starchitect’s signature neo-classical stylings.



For those with an appreciation for nostalgia, Strawberry Hill captures the charm of The Peak’s mid-20th-century heritage. Originally built in the 1970s, this oceanfront townhouse development has been thoughtfully modernised, blending vintage allure with contemporary comforts.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Crafting a Legacy</h3>



Not only are these developments super-prime homes, but they are also experiences, according to Wong, meticulously designed to honour the legacy of the Peak. At the heart of this approach is a dedication to preserving history, promoting sustainability and crafting timeless designs.



“It’s about crafting an ecosystem where people can thrive—families, nature, and history all co-existing harmoniously,” says Wong. This philosophy extends to preserving natural features, such as the century-old trees integrated into properties like 77 Peak Road. “These trees are not just features; they’re part of the history.”



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">From the Peak with Love</h3>



For the select few who seek to become part of the Peak’s storied legacy, Wheelock Properties has a showroom in the heart of Central, an exclusive space that offers a peek into the design and craftsmanship of its prestigious residences and a panoramic overview of its Peak Collection.



“Matching the right home with the right owner is like courtship. It takes time to understand which home aligns with one’s lifestyle. Each home we create is distinct, and building a relationship of trust is equally important. Only through this mutual understanding can we move forward together to introduce a home where one reckons this is ‘the one,<a>’</a>” Wong tells&nbsp;Robb Report Hong Kong.



All images courtesy of Wheelock Properties.

Hong Kong Property

legacy property

property

VIctoria Peak

Wheelock Properties

A Legacy Lived, a Legacy Continued: Wheelock Properties Offers Prime Living on Hong Kong’s Victoria Peak

Chinese couture

couturier

Exhibition

Guo Pei

Haute Couture

Hong Kong exhibition

Met Gala outfit

red wedding gown

Rihanna

First Look: Chinese Haute Couture Icon Guo Pei Brings a Career-Spanning Collection to M+

As 2024 draws to a close, it’s time for buyers, sellers, and renters to prepare for what the housing market will have in store next year. &nbsp;



If you’re planning on snapping up <a href="https://robbreport.com/shelter/vacation-homes/second-homes-draw-luxury-buyers1235477999-1235477999/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">a second home</a> or parting ways with your property, the <a href="https://robbreport.com/tag/real-estate-2/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">real estate</a> sector is entering a new phase. As a refresher, <a href="https://robbreport.com/tag/home/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">home</a> price growth hit 4 per cent in 2024, up from 1.1 per cent in 2023, while average mortgage rates hovered around 6.3 per cent, according to Realtor.com’s <a href="https://www.realtor.com/news/trends/housing-forecast-mortgage-rates-home-prices/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">2025 forecast</a>. As of the third quarter, the median sale price in the <a href="https://robbreport.com/tag/united-states/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">United States</a> was US$420,400 (approximately HK$3.26 million), a 32 per cent jump from Q3 2020. Rents nationwide rose as well, coming in at US$1,382 (approximately HK$10,745) a month in November which is 20 per cent higher than what they were in January 2020, The New York Times <a href="https://www.nytimes.com/2024/12/11/realestate/housing-market-2024-2025.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">reported</a>. 



“This past year brought us a surprising upward trend in home price growth despite the persistence of high mortgage rates and rising inventory,”&nbsp;Realtor.com&nbsp;economists wrote in the report. “Mortgage rates are expected to keep mortgage payments essentially unchanged in 2025 despite continued home price growth.”&nbsp;



Per the experts, home prices are projected to soar an additional 3.7 per cent within the next year after hitting an <a href="https://robbreport.com/shelter/homes-for-sale/us-home-prices-all-time-high-june-1235832594/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">all-time high</a>. On the upside, when it comes to supply, inventory is expected to surge 11.7 per cent, making the market less competitive and giving buyers more time to negotiate. However, those who have been waiting on the sidelines may actually drive up the number of home sales in 2025. Redfin <a href="https://www.redfin.com/news/housing-market-predictions-2025/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">predicts</a> approximately four million homes will be sold by the end of next year with an expected annual increase in the number of sales rising between 2 per cent and 9 per cent.



“Prices are going to keep rising because we’re not going to have a recession,” Ralph McLaughlin, a senior economist at&nbsp;Realtor.com, told&nbsp;<a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/housing-market-2025-outlook-home-prices-mortgage-rates-realtor-com-2024-12" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Business Insider</a>. “If you look at the times that home prices fall, it’s typically only when there’s a recession, and only when people are forced to sell.”&nbsp;



If you’re a renter, prices won’t change all that much. The Realtor.com forecast sees asking rents <a href="https://robbreport.com/shelter/homes-for-sale/luxury-rental-prices-falling-across-the-world-1235510668/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">actually declining</a> albeit slightly as more units become available. Nationally, a construction boom which began in 2024 has significantly increased the number of available units. Over the summer, <a href="https://www.zillow.com/research/july-2024-rent-report-34276/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Zillow</a> found that in June, more multifamily units were completed than any month in approximately 50 years creating more options for renters.

2025

Forecast

Housing

housing market

market

Real Estate

Here’s How the Real Estate Market Will Fare Next Year, According to 2025 Housing Forecasts

A&nbsp;<a href="https://robbreport.com/style/jewelry/blue-diamond-ring-christies-auction-1235999563/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">blue diamond</a>&nbsp;lived up to the hype at auction this week.



The 5.7-carat fancy intense stone, mounted as part of a diamond ring, hammered down for US$8.8 million (approximately HK$68.42 million) during Christie’s Magnificent Jewels sale. That price was more than the diamond’s pre-auction high estimate and makes the jewel the second most expensive sold at auction globally this year.



“Today’s sale in New York was a testament to the vibrant market for <a href="https://robbreport.com/tag/jewelry/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">jewellery</a> of the highest calibre with singular provenance,” Rahul Kadakia, the international head of jewellery at Christie’s, said in a statement. “We were particularly pleased with the result of the top lot&#8230; We also were deeply honoured to sell jewels from several of the world’s most esteemed private collectors, including Mica Ertegun. Offering this selection of jewellery hailing from the collection Mica Ertegun was a tribute to her brilliant eye, and we are thrilled by the exceptional outcome.”



<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/Harry-Winston-Results.jpg-1024x576.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234794270" style="width:841px;height:auto" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Harry-Winston-Results.jpg-1024x576.webp 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Harry-Winston-Results.jpg-300x169.webp 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Harry-Winston-Results.jpg-768x432.webp 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Harry-Winston-Results.jpg.webp 1200w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Harry Winston spinel and diamond earrings. Image courtesy of Christie’s</figcaption></figure>



In total, the Magnificent Jewels auction was sold 97 per cent by lot, for a grand total of US$49.2 million (approximately HK$382.52 million). Buyers came from around the globe, with 62 per cent from the Americas, 21 per cent from Europe, and 17 per cent from the Asia-Pacific region. While the blue diamond was far and away the star of the show, other pieces similarly crossed the US$1 million (approximately HK$7.77 million) mark: A pair of Harry Winston spinel and diamond earrings fetched US$2.2 million (approximately HK$17.10 million), four times their high estimate, and another pair of Harry Winston diamond earrings also achieved a cool US$1.9 million (approximately HK$14.77 million).



As Kadakia mentioned, Ertegun’s collection of jewels was also highly desired by bidders. The 16 lots were all sold, with more than 80 per cent hammering down for more than double their pre-auction low estimate. The most valuable piece was a Cartier Art Deco multi-gem and diamond brooch, which sold for US$1.4 million (HK$10.88 million), more than 10 times its low estimate. The next highest-priced items were a JAR ruby and diamond torsade necklace (US$378,000/approximately HK$2.93 million) and a pair of Old European brilliant-cut diamond earrings (US$352,800/approximately HK$2.74 million).



<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/Cartier-Brooch-Results.jpg-1024x576.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234794271" style="width:842px;height:auto" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Cartier-Brooch-Results.jpg-1024x576.webp 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Cartier-Brooch-Results.jpg-300x169.webp 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Cartier-Brooch-Results.jpg-768x432.webp 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Cartier-Brooch-Results.jpg.webp 1200w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Cartier Art Deco multi-gem and diamond brooch. Image courtesy of Christie’s</figcaption></figure>



Also achieving a rather impressive sum was a Van Cleef &amp; Arpels “Ruban Mysterieux” necklace, which went home for US$1.4 million (approximately HK$10.88 million). And the Jewels as Art sale, part of the same auction, was led by a Suzanne Belperron diamond “Tube” bracelet (US$945,000/approximately HK$7.34 million).



If you’re feeling left out from not having acquired any of these exquisite jewels, Christie’s is keeping its Jewels Online auction open until Thursday.

Auction

Christie's

High Jewellery

jewellery

A 5.7-Carat Blue Diamond Ring Just Fetched Nearly HK$70 Million at Auction

<a href="https://robbreport.com/tag/new-zealand/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">New Zealand</a> isn’t scrapping its golden visa programme, but the government is making tweaks to lure deep-pocketed property investors.



The country’s government is worried after the number of applicants for its Active Investor Plus Visa plummeted in the past two years, Bloomberg <a href="https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2024-12-12/new-zealand-plans-golden-visa-changes-to-lure-wealthy-migrants?srnd=phx-wealth" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">reported</a> on Thursday. In its prime, the lucrative programme brought in an average NZ$1 billion (or roughly US$580 million/approximately HK$4.5 billion) per year. Since changes to the regulations were made in 2022, the nation has only approved 35 international applications totalling NZ$352 million (approximately HK$1.58 billion)—and now it’s trying to win people back.



“We are conscious that the government changed those settings and we saw a marked decline in the number of investors,” New Zealand finance minister Nicola Willis said during an interview. “You can expect to see announcements from us on that in the coming weeks.”



While the exact details of the proposed plan have not been released, under the current programme rules, aspiring applicants for the visa must invest at least NZ$5 million (approximately HK$22.46 million) directly or NZ$15 million (approximately HK$67.38 million) via passive investments. Previously, before the change in regulations in 2022, applicants only had to commit to a minimum of NZ$3 million (approximately HK$13.48 million). 



Already, the government has taken action to expedite the application process. In addition, Willis plans to introduce legislation in 2025 “to emphasise that the nation requires foreign capital to achieve its economic objectives.” However, she maintains that gaining more wealthy foreigners isn’t the only goal.



“It’s also the networks, the expertise, the experience, the ideas that they bring with them,” Willis explained. “There are many examples throughout the country where investor migrants, while they may make initial investments, then go on to make other investments and become more engaged in the economy in a range of ways which are helpful.”&nbsp;



Golden visas for foreign investors have become <a href="https://robbreport.com/lifestyle/news/golden-visa-demand-portugal-greece-1234882030/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">immensely popular</a> since the pandemic crisis when hordes of US citizens migrated abroad. At the time, high-net-worth individuals flocked mostly to <a href="https://robbreport.com/tag/europe/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Europe</a>, settling down in places such as <a href="https://robbreport.com/tag/portugal/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Portugal</a> and <a href="https://robbreport.com/tag/ireland/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Ireland</a>. However, more European countries have now decided to <a href="https://robbreport.com/travel/destinations/golden-visa-portugal-ireland-1234809695/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">end their programmes, </a>which allowed real estate investors to gain visas and sometimes citizenship. Last month, Spain was the latest country to attempt to discontinue the gold visa over concerns it was driving up housing costs. While the bill was <a href="https://www.euronews.com/travel/2024/12/10/spain-flip-flops-on-golden-visa-ban-as-applications-continue-to-flood-in" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">vetoed by the Senate</a>, Congress could still push the proposed ban forward next year.

Golden Visa

Golden visa Program

New Zealand

Travel

UHNW

visa

New Zealand Is Changing Its Golden Visa Programme to Lure Wealthy Visitors

Welcome to Checking In, a review series in which our editors and contributors rate the best luxury hotels based on a rigorous—and occasionally tongue-in-cheek—10-point system: Each question answered “yes” gets one point. Will room service bring you caviar? Does your suite have its own butler? Does the bathroom have a bidet? Find out below.



Describe the hotel in three words: Exquisite French flair.



What’s the deal?



Groupe Barrière, a continental name that has made its mark on Paris, Courchevel, Cannes, Marrakesh, St Barts, and more, has stepped foot stateside for the first time after more than 100 years since its founding. Fouquet’s New York, located in the fashionable Tribeca district, is the dashing debut, and while the outside screams post-industrial warehouse, the inside oozes French sophistication. Boasting a rooftop garden, private cinema room with velvet chaise lounges, residential-style accommodations, a spa and fitness centre, two restaurants, and a bar, the property brings the perfect blend of Parisian chic and New York glamour.



Martin Brudnizki, designer extraordinaire, strikes again—this time, with a pastel-coloured touch that infuses the property with a dreamy romanticism. Dusty lavender and sage green rule the roost across the 97 rooms and suites, but the Swedish visionary artfully left his eclectic signature on the lighting fixtures—spoiler alert: all the lampshades, chandeliers, and sconces are delightfully individual and harmoniously blended into the Art Deco 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/2024/12/2022_09-Fouquets-32-Chambre-705_LivingRoom_003-1-1024x683.jpeg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234793728" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/2022_09-Fouquets-32-Chambre-705_LivingRoom_003-1-1024x683.jpeg 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/2022_09-Fouquets-32-Chambre-705_LivingRoom_003-1-300x200.jpeg 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/2022_09-Fouquets-32-Chambre-705_LivingRoom_003-1-768x512.jpeg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/2022_09-Fouquets-32-Chambre-705_LivingRoom_003-1-1536x1024.jpeg 1536w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/2022_09-Fouquets-32-Chambre-705_LivingRoom_003-1-2048x1365.jpeg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Stay in the 2,400-plus square-feet Fouquet’s Penthouse, spread over two floors, with three private terraces.</figcaption></figure>



The best room?



Our Hudson View Corner Suite, with its floor-to-ceiling windows and sizeable living room, was a delightful choice, but guests looking to go big or go home will want to spring for the 2,400-plus square-feet Fouquet’s Penthouse. Spread over two floors, the two-bedroom duplex includes spacious entertaining and dining areas, an executive office with a separate powder room, two outdoor terraces with loungers and a firepit, a master suite with its own private terrace, and a second bedroom. Brudnizki did the honours, infusing the penthouse with maximalism, vibrant colour and patterns, and custom-designed wallpapers.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="683" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Appartement_Terrasse-1-1024x683.jpeg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234793731" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Appartement_Terrasse-1-1024x683.jpeg 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Appartement_Terrasse-1-300x200.jpeg 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Appartement_Terrasse-1-768x512.jpeg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Appartement_Terrasse-1-1536x1024.jpeg 1536w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Appartement_Terrasse-1-2048x1365.jpeg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">A number of suites at Fouquet’s New York overlook the Hudson River.</figcaption></figure>



Does the hotel have a standout perk?



It’s a fantastic place to throw a big party. All of the suites on the seventh floor can be combined into one huge space, with a connecting terrace that wraps around the outside, affording you not only ample room to host a night to remember, but also urban views of the surrounding neighbourhood and the Hudson River. Bookmark that for your next soirée.



Did they greet you by name at check-in?



Yes, and the check-in process was smooth and swift to boot. We were promptly guided to the Hudson View Corner Suite for our stay, and given a tour of the facilities.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="683" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/20220924_Fouquets_2_123_Nightlife_2_082-copie-2-1024x683.jpeg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234793734" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/20220924_Fouquets_2_123_Nightlife_2_082-copie-2-1024x683.jpeg 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/20220924_Fouquets_2_123_Nightlife_2_082-copie-2-300x200.jpeg 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/20220924_Fouquets_2_123_Nightlife_2_082-copie-2-768x512.jpeg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/20220924_Fouquets_2_123_Nightlife_2_082-copie-2-1536x1024.jpeg 1536w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/20220924_Fouquets_2_123_Nightlife_2_082-copie-2-2048x1365.jpeg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Fouquet’s New York is located in the fashionable Tribeca district.</figcaption></figure>



Was a welcome drink ready and waiting when you arrived?



No, the refreshments that came with the room were standard Evian bottled waters and a fruit platter, but there were macarons and an Arc de Triomphe-shaped chocolate waiting.



Private butler for every room?



You won’t find private butler service at Fouquet’s New York, but all the staff members we encountered during our stay were more than happy to help, and the reception team in the lobby handled our requests, bookings, and questions for recommendations efficiently.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="683" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/6N0A5862-2-1024x683.jpeg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234793735" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/6N0A5862-2-1024x683.jpeg 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/6N0A5862-2-300x200.jpeg 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/6N0A5862-2-768x512.jpeg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/6N0A5862-2-1536x1024.jpeg 1536w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/6N0A5862-2-2048x1365.jpeg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">The hotel has a rooftop garden that doubles as a bar in the summertime.</figcaption></figure>



Is the sheet thread count higher than 300?



It’s 300 exact, and the luxurious linens are provided by Matouk, a manufacturer with nearly 100 years of history under its belt. (It counts many other boutique and heritage hotels in the United States among its clients, and is also preferred supplier for North American Relais &amp; Châteaux properties, so that should give you an idea of its plush and reliable quality.)



Is there a heated floor in the bathroom? What about a bidet?



No heated floors, but the king of washroom thrones, Toto, was a welcome fixture in the bathroom, and comes with all the bells and whistles you could ask for in a bidet.



Are the toiletries full-sized?



Yes, and it’s one of our favourite brands, too: Diptyque’s L’Art Du Soin, imparting zesty and refreshing notes of bergamot, green mandarin, and neroli. Full-sized dispensers are stationed inside the rain shower, while the large soaking tub comes with miniature bottles of the body wash (and a television, should you like to catch up on the latest happening in the world beyond the hotel while luxuriating in a long bath). A shoutout here to the gorgeous, richly patterned Calacatta marble counter with his-and-hers sinks—a beautiful centrepiece.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="683" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/2209_Fouquets-15-sauna-pool-001-coloredit2-1-1024x683.jpeg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234793730" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/2209_Fouquets-15-sauna-pool-001-coloredit2-1-1024x683.jpeg 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/2209_Fouquets-15-sauna-pool-001-coloredit2-1-300x200.jpeg 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/2209_Fouquets-15-sauna-pool-001-coloredit2-1-768x512.jpeg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/2209_Fouquets-15-sauna-pool-001-coloredit2-1-1536x1024.jpeg 1536w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/2209_Fouquets-15-sauna-pool-001-coloredit2-1-2048x1365.jpeg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">The Spa Diane Barrière has five treatment rooms, a sauna and steam room, and a hydrotherapy pool.</figcaption></figure>



Is there a private pool for the room’s exclusive use? How are the spa and gym?



No private pools to be found in any of the rooms or suites, but there is a hydrotherapy pool in the subterranean Spa Diane Barrière that guests can avail themselves of. Guests will not be doing laps, but loosening up those sore shoulders under the massaging jets is an equally good option during rest days. Fouquet’s New York also partners with the Dogpound gym brand to offer an on-site fitness centre and appointments with personal trainers for bespoke workouts. Pop over to the sauna and steam room or one of the five treatment rooms or after your workout for an Ultimate Glow facial and Diane Barrière signature massage, developed in partnership with Parisian skincare experts Biologique Recherche. Its deep-pressure application will reduce inflammation, nourish the skin, and drain the lymphatic system.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="683" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Brasserie_Fouquets_New-York-1024x683.jpeg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234793729" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Brasserie_Fouquets_New-York-1024x683.jpeg 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Brasserie_Fouquets_New-York-300x200.jpeg 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Brasserie_Fouquets_New-York-768x512.jpeg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Brasserie_Fouquets_New-York-1536x1024.jpeg 1536w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Brasserie_Fouquets_New-York-2048x1365.jpeg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Pierre Gagnaire lends his expertise to Brasserie Fouquet’s, a spin on the original Fouquet’s on the Avenue des Champs-Élysées.</figcaption></figure>



Is the restaurant worth its salt?



Yes, and it comes with a Michelin-star-studded name, too. Chef Pierre Gagnaire lends his exceptional craft and expertise to Brasserie Fouquet’s, a spin on the original Fouquet’s on the Avenue des Champs-Élysées, and the menu is packed with classic French refinement—the likes of escargots in velouté, foie gras terrine, beef tartare, sole meunière with pomme purée, and roasted duck breast are all heavily represented. I was strongly recommended to order the highly popular Fouquet’s cheeseburger, of all things, and it did not disappoint. Pair that with the indulgent Fouquet’s onion soup, and lips will be smacked in delight.



Next door, Élysée’s sees to breakfast, lunch, and dinner. In a conservatory-slash-courtyard-like environment dotted with potted trees, florals, and cosy banquettes, guests will find little to fault with the bistro-inflected Mediterranean fare; the crème brûlée French toast makes for a sweet and toothsome start to the day. Other highlights include the linguine with lobster and mushroom, branzino à la plancha, and ricotta gnudi with sage and brown butter.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="683" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Titsou_Bar-181-3-1024x683.jpeg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234793727" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Titsou_Bar-181-3-1024x683.jpeg 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Titsou_Bar-181-3-300x200.jpeg 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Titsou_Bar-181-3-768x512.jpeg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Titsou_Bar-181-3-1536x1024.jpeg 1536w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Titsou_Bar-181-3-2048x1365.jpeg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">The Titsou Bar is an intimate speakeasy that brings the energy of 1920s and 1930s Paris to New York.</figcaption></figure>



Do you want to spend Friday night in the lobby bar?



Yes, and the fun part is finding it first. Hidden behind an innocuous display wall of trinkets and tasteful decorations, the Titsou Bar—named for Lucien Barrière, founder of Groupe Barrière, whose daughter fondly called him “Titsou”—is an intimate speakeasy that brings the energy of 1920s and 1930s Paris to New York. Lavishly dressed in a sumptuous palette of burgundy and maroon, with a dash of contrasting green that has become a signature theme across the hotel, the Titsou Bar’s buzzy atmosphere lends itself well to the innovative cocktails on offer, and the indulgent bar bites— Imperial Ossetra caviar on blini, anyone?



Would you buy the hotel if you could?



Sure would. What’s not to like about owning an elegant property in the heart of the city, just walking distance from some of the best boutiques and restaurants in the neighbourhood? Plus, living our best lives in fabulous Brudnizki-designed residences is a no-brainer for us—this is what a “home away from home” in New York should look and feel like.



Score: 8



What Our Score Means:



1–3: Fire your travel agent if they suggest you stay here.



4–6: Solid if you’re in a pinch—but only if you’re in a pinch.



7–8: Very good. We’d stay here again and recommend it without qualms.



9–10: Forget booking a week. When can we move in permanently?



All images courtesy of Fouquet’s New York.

Fouquet’s New York

Groupe Barrière

Hotel Barrière

luxury hotel

New York

What It’s Like to Stay at Fouquet’s New York, Groupe Barrière’s Parisian-Chic Mansion

2025 is shaping up to be a big year for <a href="https://www.rosewoodhotels.com/en/default" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Rosewood Hotels &amp; Resorts</a>.



Currently counting 33 hotels, resorts, and residences in 21 countries in its burgeoning portfolio, the hospitality brand, owned by Hong Kong-based <a href="https://robbreport.hk/brands/rosewood/stories" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Rosewood</a> Hotel Group, has its eyes set on rapid global expansion, with 27 more properties to come in the near future. Among them, five are slated to open next year, dotted across the world map.



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<a href="https://www.rosewoodhotels.com/en/miyakojima" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Rosewood Miyakojima</a> on tropical Okinawa marks the first Rosewood property in Japan. Encompassing 55 villas, each with individual private pools, the Studio Piet Boon-designed accommodations liberally embrace local materials and draw inspiration from the surrounding natural landscape to immerse guests in a tranquil environment replete with lush gardens and sweeping ocean views, channelling the Ryukyu Island spirit. From Oceanview Villas and Beachfront Villas with direct access to the ocean to the residential-style Kuura House, Upra House, and Kamii House, sized from 150 to 200 square metres, the elegantly appointed retreats make for an unrivalled getaway.



Fresh seafood, island-raised beef, and craft spirits and beverages are the focus of the four restaurants and bars at Rosewood Miyakojima, and with space and seascapes aplenty for get-togethers large and small. Rosewood Explorer’s Club, geared towards children, and the innovative Asaya integrated wellness concept, complete with treatment rooms, private gardens, and hydrotherapy facilities, make up some of the property’s on-site recreation options. Venture forth from Rosewood Miyakojima to discover the lighthouse at Higashi-Hennazaki Cape; Yonaha Maehama, hailed as Japan’s best beach and renowned for its cinematic sunsets; and the local culture, language, and customs of the local Okinawan uchinanchu (“sea people”).



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Meanwhile, <a href="https://www.rosewoodhotels.com/en/mandarina" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Rosewood Mandarina</a> will open its doors on Mexico’s Pacific Coast from 1 April, adding to the group’s existing three properties in the country. Lining the coast of Riviera Nayarit, the hotel sits in an area abundant with flora and fauna, picturesque beaches, and dramatic cliffs. 134 suites and villas, ranging from 92 to 1,216 square metres in size, come with terraces and plunge pools. Among them, the Cora Mountaintop Villa is the cream of the crop, and accommodates up to 14 guests, too, with a gym, media room, kitchen, living and dining areas, and a private outdoor terrace with a full-sized infinity pool to boot. Need we mention the spectacular views?



Aside from the trademark Asaya spa to meet your pampering needs, Rosewood Mandarina’s five restaurants and bars will keep guests fed and watered. If your own private plunge pool leaves you wanting more, the property’s four pools should do the trick. Pre-Hispanic Huichol and Cora cultures inform the activities, experiences, and sophisticated design of the hotel, emphasising influences drawn from the surrounding ocean, flatland, and mountain landscapes, whether it’s hiking to an ancient abuela&nbsp;tree, going horseback-riding on the beach, or zip-wiring through the jungle.



<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/Rosewood-Doha_01-1024x683.jpeg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234793291" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Rosewood-Doha_01-1024x683.jpeg 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Rosewood-Doha_01-300x200.jpeg 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Rosewood-Doha_01-768x512.jpeg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Rosewood-Doha_01-1536x1024.jpeg 1536w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Rosewood-Doha_01-2048x1365.jpeg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Rosewood Doha.</figcaption></figure>



Over in the Middle East, Rosewood is briskly breaking new ground. Aside from three future openings in Saudi Arabia, the hotel brand is readying for the opening of <a href="https://www.rosewoodhotels.com/en/doha" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Rosewood Doha</a> in 2025. 155 guest rooms and suites, 162 serviced apartments, and 276 residences make up the impressive accommodations, and the on-site experiences are no slouch, either—the property will house a multitude of speciality restaurants, bars, a cigar lounge, a library, wellness centre, the Manor Club executive lounge, meeting rooms, a 1,050-square-metre ballroom, and even a grab-and-go market. It’s not just the rooms that are fabulous, either; Rosewood Doha and its branded residences are located in stunning twin towers wrapped in a façade inspired by coral reef formations.



<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/Rosewood-Amsterdam_highres-1024x683.jpeg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234793289" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Rosewood-Amsterdam_highres-1024x683.jpeg 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Rosewood-Amsterdam_highres-300x200.jpeg 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Rosewood-Amsterdam_highres-768x512.jpeg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Rosewood-Amsterdam_highres-1536x1024.jpeg 1536w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Rosewood-Amsterdam_highres-2048x1365.jpeg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Rosewood Amsterdam.</figcaption></figure>



Amsterdam will soon receive its first Rosewood, too, and the setting is as grand as it is historical. Overlooking the scenic Prinsengracht canal, the former Palace of Justice is being converted into the newest ultra-luxury hotel in the Dutch capital. <a href="https://www.rosewoodhotels.com/en/amsterdam" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Rosewood Amsterdam</a> will be located in the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Amsterdam Canal District, and is a stone’s throw away from a wealth of museums, high-end shopping opportunities on PC Hooftstraat, and the lively De Pijp neighbourhood. Aside from 134 rooms and suites, the property will offer three restaurants, an indoor swimming pool, a ballroom, a fitness centre, and the ever-popular Asaya wellness concept.



<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/The-Chancery-Rosewood_exterior-1024x683.jpeg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234793290" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/The-Chancery-Rosewood_exterior-1024x683.jpeg 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/The-Chancery-Rosewood_exterior-300x200.jpeg 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/The-Chancery-Rosewood_exterior-768x512.jpeg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/The-Chancery-Rosewood_exterior-1536x1024.jpeg 1536w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/The-Chancery-Rosewood_exterior-2048x1365.jpeg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">The Chancery Rosewood.</figcaption></figure>



London’s second Rosewood property will take shape as <a href="https://www.rosewoodhotels.com/en/the-chancery-rosewood" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">The Chancery Rosewood</a>, a prestigious address in the Mayfair district. Balancing legacy with modern luxury, the hotel will feature architectural restoration by the legendary Sir David Chipperfield of David Chipperfield Architects, with French architect Joseph Dirand putting his spin on the interiors. Yabu Pushelberg was brought in to design an integrative wellness facility. The Chancery Rosewood will consist of 144 keys.



With even more Rosewood hotels announced for Rome, Milan, Shenzhen, Mexico City, Crete, Seoul, and Shanghai, among many others, the group’s opening calendar is packed all the way through to 2028. Not a bad way to keep fans of the brand on the go.



All images courtesy of Rosewood.

Rosewood

Rosewood Amsterdam

Rosewood Doha

Rosewood Mandarina

Rosewood Miyakojima

The Chancery Rosewood

Rosewood Is Opening 5 New Hotels in 2025. Here’s a Look Inside.

Taylor Swift has finally ended her Eras tour, so the question is, how long will she remain at the top of any entertainment list? For now, she’s unbeatable. Fashion-wise, she’s known to wear Zimmermann, and that Aussie brand seems to excite more interest than ever. Founded by Sydneysider sisters Nicky and Simone Zimmermann in 1992, they will only issue gear you can dance in. Since 2023, it’s been partly owned by US private equity giant Advent International, who must be dancing all the way to the bank. Zimmermann has 56 stores worldwide, including such locations as Shanghai and Shenzhen and London’s Bond Street. Looking at its current website, by the way, you might be convinced that anything all black, with gold accessories, is absolutely right for chic events. (Remember how many all-black outfits there were at the Leaders of Luxury Summit 2024 in Hong Kong last November?)



This particular column could well be called the Aussie special. Let’s switch from looking good to good-looking, as in wearable timepieces. Take note of Andrew McCutchey’s Watch Discovery Studio. He’s made watches his life forever, it seems, and now he has set up a watch discovery studio in Melbourne. It’s part of his Time and Tide empire. The discovery studio is to see what watches he’s got; have a look, and generally network with other watch collectors.



Some say that watches are the Shangri-La when it comes to alternative investments for the young: 28-year old Charles Tian, founder of Texas-based WatchCharts, estimates the CPO—certified pre-owned—market is worth US$27 billion a year



CPO, or already-loved—never “second-hand”—can apply to tangible assets but not to experiences. The newest river-boat cruiser in Southeast Asia could well be called a 13-cabin air-conditioned private yacht. The 50-metre-long Bohème by Mekong Kingdoms’ best cabin is the 60-square-metre Royal Suite, with private sundeck. Bohème has an onboard crew of 20 for a maximum 26 guests so you could theoretically have massages daily, at least; tourist excursions include the Elephant Conservation Centre at Sayabouri, and the two Pak Ou caves, both containing hundreds of statues of Buddha in various positions.



Bohème started its maiden voyage 9 December 2024, sailing from Luang Prabang and the Laotian capital, Vientiane. It makes sense for a pre-cruise layover at the Avani+ in Luang Prabang, which has the same ownership as the boat—both are managed by Bangkok-based Bill Heinecke’s Minor International, which, in his quest to be asset-light, means he has no equity in either the hotel or the boat.



Those who prefer faster travel, or at least watching it, will have to wait for 16 March for the first full-scale F1 of the year in Melbourne (get your Zimmermanns out…). Those who really are suffering petrolhead panic, of course, can head for re-season testing from 26 to 28 February, but what might entice even more is a two-hour F1 evening show at London’s 02 on 18 February. All 20 drivers and all 10 team principals will be among the central players and it’s a good chance to try one of London’s two newest luxury hotels. The boutique Mandarin Oriental London Mayfair is right next to Bond Street while the classic-style Peninsula, London is under 10 minutes’ walk to Hong Kong-owned Harvey Nichols—add a further five minutes to Harrods.

Mekong Kingdoms

Watch Discovery Studio

Zimmermann

Cruise the Majestic Mekong River on Bohéme, Discover Luxury Timepieces at Melbourne’s Watch Discovery Studio, and Other Things to Bookmark this January

A Michelin-starred chef is getting ready to expand his footprint in <a href="https://robbreport.com/tag/scotland/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Scotland</a>.



Michel Roux Jr, who oversaw the Michelin two-star Le Gavroche, will open a new restaurant at Crossbasket Castle in Glasgow early next year, the Scottish Sun <a href="https://www.thescottishsun.co.uk/money/14041012/bbc-chef-michelin-stars-hotel-restaurant-castle-scotland/?utm_source=chatgpt.com" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">reported</a> on Thursday. Trocadero’s Restaurant and Cocktail Bar will be his second outpost at the property, where he already has his namesake Michel Roux Jr. Restaurant. When it opens on 16 March, Trocadero’s will feature a fine-dining menu accompanied by specialty cocktails and live entertainment.



The new restaurant is part of a larger renovation taking place at Crossbasket Castle, the Sun noted. Alison and Steve Timoney, who acquired the property in 2011, are investing more than US$25 million (approximately HK$194.37 million) into updates. The hotel will add 40 new bedrooms, including two grand suites, four junior suites, eight deluxe rooms, and 26 classic double/twin rooms. Along with the restaurant, there will also be two private cottages and a luxury spa.



“A tribute to the elegance and allure of a bygone era, we wanted to create a destination where guests could escape the ordinary and immerse themselves in a world of glamour and sophistication, whilst enjoying the full experience that only the finest live music and entertainment can provide,” Alison Timoney told the Sun. “We have an incredibly talented team, who have worked in some of the most respected five-star venues in the world and have been hand chosen to bring this unrivalled experience to us here in Scotland.”



The additions to Crossbasket Castle will allow the property to host an extra 35,000 guests a year and create 50 jobs in the area, the Sun wrote. It’s the second time that the Timoneys are updating the hotel, after it reopened in 2016 following a US$12.6 million (approximately HK$97.96) restoration. (The castle dates all the way back to the 17th century.)



As for Roux, he’s <a href="https://robbreport.com/food-drink/dining/brasserie-prince-balmoral-edinburgh-michel-roux-interview-2800532/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">following in the footsteps</a> of his father and uncle, two icons in the fine-dining world. He took over their Le Gavroche in 1991, before closing the restaurant earlier this year. He’s also appeared on local versions of MasterChef, and he hosted Five Star Chef on Netflix.



The opening of Trocadero’s adds to Roux’s legacy in the United Kingdom, and gives diners one more spot for chowing down on his lauded fare.

Chef

Michel Roux jr.

Michelinj-chef

Scotland

Scottish Castle

This Michelin-Starred Chef’s Next Restaurant Will Be Inside a Former Scottish Castle

After showing out this year in Madrid, the Golden Vines weekend is headed to Miami after previous wine-splashed editions in London, Florence, and Paris. While the 2024 Golden Vines pulled out all the stops for wine lovers who gathered from around the world, Miami is set to one-up one of the great wine weekends of the year. Guests had the opportunity to rub elbows—and enjoy a glass—with 55 winemakers from all over the globe who took part in masterclasses, lunches, and other experiences during three days of jam-packed with events.



Held Friday, 25 October through Monday, 27 October, the weekend in Madrid began with tastings and masterclasses by the likes of <a href="https://robbreport.com/food-drink/wine/dom-perignon-2023-scrapped-vintage-1235853717/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Dom Pérignon</a>, Château d’Yquem, Maison Krug, Bond, Ridge Vineyards, and Opus One. Friday evening brought guests to the Real Casa de Correos for the Golden Vines Charity Gala hosted by Ronan and Storm Keating and featuring the culinary creations of Michelin two-star chef Mario Sandoval served alongside wines such as Krug Grand Cuvée 162ème, Vega Sicilia Unico, and Taylor’s Port 50-Year-Old Tawny. All that food, wine, and elbow-rubbing serves a higher purpose: The Golden Vines Live Auction, hosted by Sotheby’s, offered exclusive “money can’t buy” wine and luxury experiences that raised over £800,000 (US$1,020,300/approximately HK$7.86 million) alongside additional online bids for the Gerard Basset Foundation. Established in 2021, the foundation supports educational opportunities for people from underserved communities in the wine, spirits, and hospitality industries.



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Saturday’s festivities began with lunches hosted by esteemed wine producers such as Maison F. E. Trimbach, Weingut Müller, Harlan Estate, Iwa Sake, Liber Pater, Château Cheval Blanc, Tenuta San Guido, and Biondi-Santi. Nightfall saw guests arriving at the Palacio Cibeles for the Golden Vines Awards Gala, where Michelin three-star chefs Joan and Josep Roca from El Celler de Can Roca created an ethereal five-course dinner paired with Dom Pérignon Plénitude 2 2006, Le Petit Cheval Blanc 2020, Tenuta dell’Ornellaia 2006, Marques de Murrieta 1980, Château d’Yquem 1983, and Gonzalez Byass Golden Vines Barrel Select Palo Cortado.



The evening’s highlight was the awards presentation, which saw winners from the world’s top wineries take to the stage to accept a custom trophy presented in a specially designed Gucci trunk. Award winners included Spain’s famed Vega Sicilia and Familia Torres, <a href="https://robbreport.com/food-drink/wine/domaine-de-la-romanee-conti-2020-vintage-review-1234820591/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Domaine de la Romanée-Conti</a>—which needs no introduction—Harlan Estate from Napa Valley, South Australia’s Henschke, Saadie Family Wines from South Africa, and Scotch legend The Macallan. Guests were also treated to a performance by rising star Victor Ray. The weekend culminated with a variety of experiences on Sunday including a visit by private jet to Asador Extebarri in San Sebastian, a private shopping experience at Gucci followed by a Michelin-starred lunch paired with Taylor’s Port and Maison Camus Cognac, and a rooftop whiskey and cigar tasting with the Dalmore.



Miami plans to bring the heat for the 2025 Golden Vines, with Friday’s night gala to be held at the Dupont Building and Saturday’s awards dinner to take place in the Faena Forum. The weekend is limited to just 300 guests, who will enjoy cuisine from Michelin-star chefs and wine from Colgin Estate, Ridge Monte Bello, Château d’Yquem, Château Lafite, Krug, Dom Pérignon, and Burgundy’s Domaine Vincent Dancer. Masterclasses will include Iconic Women in Wine, Iberian Icons, Bordeaux All Stars, and Burgundy Icons, while lunches will feature the likes of Salon Champagne, Château Angelus, Burgundy Rising Stars, and 2024 Golden Vines Award winners. Sunday experiences offer guest choices that include caviar and Champagne, a white truffle lunch at Cartier, private yachting with Garrus Rosé, and Opul Jets private jet to the Bahamas with lunch hosted by Burgundian vignerons. <a href="https://liquidicons.com/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Tickets</a> are priced at US$15,000 (approximately HK$116,630) per person, which includes VIP concierge services to assist with all travel, hotel, and on-the-ground requirements. US taxpayers can pay 50 per cent of the ticket price to Americas Charities Inc. as a deductible cash donation.

2024 Golden Vines

awards

Golden Vines

Golden Vines Awards

Oscars of the Wine World

wine awards

Inside the 2024 Golden Vines, the ‘Oscars of the Wine World’

In an exclusive interview following the inaugural Leaders of Luxury Summit 2024, hosted by&nbsp;Robb Report Hong Kong&nbsp;on 27 November 2024 with support from the Hong Kong Tourism Board, Dr Pang Yiu-kai, chairman of the Hong Kong Tourism Board, shares his insights on the ever-evolving luxury landscape and Hong Kong’s pivotal role within it.&nbsp;



A formidable roster of delegates spoke on stage in a resoundingly positive and hopeful spirit as the conversations explored reshaping the future of luxury beyond Hong Kong. Its ripples reached far and wide as the words of the most significant players in industry, many of whom flew down especially for the event, resonated with the audience.&nbsp;



“When I first heard about the theme, ‘Redefining Luxury Through a Global Lens,’ I thought, ‘What better place to host such a forward-looking dialogue than Hong Kong?’” Dr Pang reflects on the overarching theme of the entire event.&nbsp;“Hong Kong is an ideal backdrop for such a discussion. As one of the fastest-growing luxury markets globally and the gateway to Mainland China, Hong Kong is strategically positioned to lead this conversation. With projections indicating that Mainland China will contribute 25 per cent of worldwide luxury sales by 2025, the timing of the Leaders of Luxury Summit is indeed opportune.”



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="768" height="1024" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Chmns-portrait_Jul-2023-768x1024.jpeg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234794469" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Chmns-portrait_Jul-2023-768x1024.jpeg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Chmns-portrait_Jul-2023-225x300.jpeg 225w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Chmns-portrait_Jul-2023-1152x1536.jpeg 1152w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Chmns-portrait_Jul-2023-1536x2048.jpeg 1536w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Chmns-portrait_Jul-2023-scaled.jpeg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 768px) 100vw, 768px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Dr Pang Yiu-kai, chairman of the Hong Kong Tourism Board.</figcaption></figure>



Speaking on stage on the busy and eventful day, his view from the dais oversaw roughly 550 attendees in the audience, each individual related to lifestyle and luxury. “The Hong Kong Tourism Board was honoured to partner with and co-host this inaugural event, aiming to influence the future trajectory of luxury. This vibrant city, located at the heart of Asia, offers unparalleled connectivity, allowing luxury brands to access half the world’s population within a mere five-hour flight,” he says, elaborating on Hong Kong’s distinctive advantages as a luxury hub and highlighting its strategic location, favourable business environment, and affluent demographics. “The anticipated influx of over 180,000 high-spending business visitors between 2024 and 2026 underscores the immense market potential.”



“The business environment in Hong Kong further enhances its allure for luxury brands. The absence of sales tax, alongside a competitive corporate tax rate, creates a thriving ecosystem for growth. Recent investments, such as The Landmark’s US$400 million upgrade and the reopening of Louis Vuitton’s flagship store, testify to this vibrant economic landscape.”



Without question, Hong Kong’s affluent demographic is pivotal, with one of the highest concentrations of ultra-high-net-worth individuals (UHNWIs) globally. “The expected 22.4 per cent growth in UHNWIs by 2028 signifies a burgeoning demand for luxury goods and experiences, further augmented by the city’s focus on hosting mega-events that attract high-spending business travellers,” Dr Pang adds. Events like&nbsp;Robb Report Hong Kong’s Leaders of Luxury Summit, Culinary Masters, and other programmes currently entrenched in the planning stages have deep economic impact—and perhaps more so culturally.&nbsp;“The city not only serves as a premier shopping destination but also as a cultural nexus, where cuisine, creativity, and luxury converge,” Dr Pang affirms, asserting that Hong Kong’s unique selling proposition is rooted in its sophisticated luxury ecosystem, which seamlessly integrates Eastern and Western influences. “With nearly 100 award-winning restaurants recognised by the Michelin Guide, World’s Best Restaurants, and Asia’s Best Restaurants and Bars, Hong Kong is a true paradise for gourmands.”



Dr Pang conveyed a message of inspiration and collaboration to international guests at the Leaders of Luxury Summit 2024 as well: “Such events not only elevate Hong Kong’s image on the world stage but also foster meaningful connections among industry leaders.”&nbsp;



As the Hong Kong Tourism Board looks to the future, Dr Pang assures us that a wealth of experiences awaits. “With an emphasis on the mega-events economy, luxury travellers can anticipate a dynamic year ahead, filled with top-tier exhibitions, festivals, and culinary showcases. Hong Kong stands ready to deliver exceptional luxury experiences, continuing to captivate those who seek the pinnacle of sophistication and enjoyment.”



The Leaders of Luxury Summit 2024 and the insights shared by Dr Pang affirm Hong Kong’s status as a leading luxury destination, uniquely poised to redefine the luxury narrative on a global scale. “Whether it’s a global art fair, a luxury fashion showcase, or a gourmet food festival, there will always be something to excite and inspire,” concludes Dr Pang. “For those seeking the pinnacle of luxury travel, Hong Kong is ready to deliver.”



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="1024" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/official_post_-10-2048x2048-1-1024x1024.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234793662" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/official_post_-10-2048x2048-1-1024x1024.jpg 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/official_post_-10-2048x2048-1-300x300.jpg 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/official_post_-10-2048x2048-1-150x150.jpg 150w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/official_post_-10-2048x2048-1-768x768.jpg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/official_post_-10-2048x2048-1-1536x1536.jpg 1536w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/official_post_-10-2048x2048-1.jpg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>

Dr Pang

Dr Pang Yiu-kai

Hong Kong

Leaders of Luxury Summit

Leaders of Luxury Summit 2024

Hong Kong Affirms Its Status as a Premier Luxury Destination

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

Last December, Rolls-Royce Motor Cars Hong Kong proudly unveiled the Cullinan Series II at an exclusive launch event held in its state-of-the-art showroom. The occasion marked the arrival of a model that redefines luxury in the super-SUV segment, establishing a new benchmark in opulence and performance.



For Robb Report Hong Kong, and indeed the Robb Report family, of course, it was in fact not the first look. Days prior to the official unveiling, the Robb Report Hong Kong team, and our VIP guests, were given a sneak peek at the dream machine at the black-tie dinner following the <a href="https://robbreport.hk/posts/robb-report-hong-kong-leaders-of-luxury-summit-gala-dinner-2024" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Leaders of Luxury Summit 2024</a>, two weeks before the official launch of the Cullinan series. As guests arrived in their gown and glory, circling the entrance of Regent Hong Kong, the latest Rolls-Royce Cullinan Series II model was lined up in all its glistening elegance and sun-kissed dazzle—as these exclusive images show. A picture-perfect first look at the truly grand vehicle, little did many know of how epic the preview was for motor enthusiasts. 



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="683" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/DC2_2497-1024x683.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234794157" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/DC2_2497-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/DC2_2497-300x200.jpg 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/DC2_2497-768x512.jpg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/DC2_2497-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/DC2_2497-2048x1365.jpg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>



Since its initial introduction in 2018, the Rolls-Royce Cullinan has captivated discerning clients worldwide, blending the marque’s iconic “Magic Carpet Ride” experience with unparalleled versatility across diverse terrains. Over the past years, it has reshaped perceptions of luxury motoring, becoming the most sought-after model in Rolls-Royce’s illustrious and legendary 120-year portfolio. The Cullinan Series II embodies a sophisticated evolution, meticulously crafted in response to insights gathered from the marque’s esteemed patrons. It incorporates advanced technology, premium materials, and bespoke options while retaining its timeless allure of being “Effortless, Everywhere.”



At the launch, Janice Lai, general manager of Rolls-Royce Motor Cars Hong Kong and Macau, noted the model’s exceptional appeal among a younger clientele, who value the thrill of self-driving. She highlighted that the Cullinan Series II stands as a modern testament to luxury, ensuring continued success with a new generation of discerning clients.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="683" height="1024" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/DSC_0635-2-683x1024.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234794167" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/DSC_0635-2-683x1024.jpg 683w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/DSC_0635-2-200x300.jpg 200w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/DSC_0635-2-768x1152.jpg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/DSC_0635-2-1024x1536.jpg 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/DSC_0635-2.jpg 1067w" sizes="(max-width: 683px) 100vw, 683px" /></figure>



We couldn’t agree with her more—after all, at the <a href="https://robbreport.hk/posts/robb-report-hong-kong-leaders-of-luxury-summit-gala-dinner-2024" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">special award presentation</a> during the gala dinner, Lai was on stage to pick up the Super Luxury All-Terrain SUV award, on behalf of the entire team of Rolls-Royce for the incredible Rolls-Royce Cullinan Series II.  



What makes the august vehicle so special begins with the first look; the exterior of the Cullinan Series II reflects an urban sensibility, featuring a striking vertical design that resonates with the illuminated skyscrapers of modern metropolises. Its front showcases clean lines and a monolithic presence, enhanced by a newly designed and illuminated Pantheon grille and 23-inch wheels, crafted from aluminium with a distinctive seven-spoke design.



<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="1234794154" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/DC2_2507-1024x683.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234794154" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/DC2_2507-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/DC2_2507-300x200.jpg 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/DC2_2507-768x512.jpg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/DC2_2507-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/DC2_2507-2048x1365.jpg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="683" data-id="1234794159" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/DSC_0646-1024x683.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234794159" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/DSC_0646-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/DSC_0646-300x200.jpg 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/DSC_0646-768x512.jpg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/DSC_0646-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/DSC_0646-2048x1365.jpg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="683" data-id="1234794156" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/DC2_2498-1-1024x683.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234794156" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/DC2_2498-1-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/DC2_2498-1-300x200.jpg 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/DC2_2498-1-768x512.jpg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/DC2_2498-1-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/DC2_2498-1-2048x1365.jpg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="683" height="1024" data-id="1234794166" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/DSC_0641-1-683x1024.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234794166" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/DSC_0641-1-683x1024.jpg 683w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/DSC_0641-1-200x300.jpg 200w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/DSC_0641-1-768x1152.jpg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/DSC_0641-1-1024x1536.jpg 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/DSC_0641-1.jpg 1067w" sizes="(max-width: 683px) 100vw, 683px" /></figure>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="683" data-id="1234794160" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/DSC_0651-2-1024x683.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234794160" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/DSC_0651-2-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/DSC_0651-2-300x200.jpg 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/DSC_0651-2-768x512.jpg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/DSC_0651-2-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/DSC_0651-2-2048x1365.jpg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="683" data-id="1234794168" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/DSC_0682-1-1024x683.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234794168" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/DSC_0682-1-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/DSC_0682-1-300x200.jpg 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/DSC_0682-1-768x512.jpg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/DSC_0682-1-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/DSC_0682-1-2048x1366.jpg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>
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Inside, the Cullinan Series II offers an expansive and innovative interior. The upper dashboard boasts a pillar-to-pillar glass-panel fascia, seamlessly blending digital and physical craftsmanship. The new Illuminated Fascia, inspired by the nightscapes of global cities, features an intricate cityscape graphic composed of 7,000 laser-etched dots.



In a nod to contemporary luxury, the interior palette embraces natural materials, including grey-stained ash and a unique bamboo-based rayon fabric known as Duality Twill. This exquisite textile reflects the brand’s commitment to bespoke craftsmanship and innovation.



The Cullinan Series II is not merely a vehicle; it is a masterclass in luxury and design, setting the standard for super-luxury SUVs worldwide.



All images shot exclusively for Robb Report Hong Kong.

Rolls Royce

Rolls-Royce Cullinan Series II Makes a Grand Splash in Hong Kong

The Raging Bull shows no signs of slowing down any time soon.



<a href="https://robbreport.com/tag/lamborghini/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Lamborghini</a> announced that it set a new sales record after delivering well over 10,000 vehicles worldwide in 2024. That number easily beat the previous high mark, which was <a href="https://robbreport.com/motors/cars/lamborghini-new-sales-record-10000-cars-1235475219/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">set just one year prior</a>.



In total, Lamborghini delivered 10,687 vehicles globally in 2024. That figure is 6 percent higher than the total from 2023, which was the first year in which the Italian sports car maker sold more than 10,000 vehicles. The new record illustrates also just how much Lamborghini has managed to turn things around this century. The company spent much of the 1970s through ’90s on the verge of financial collapse, though its fortunes have been on an upward trajectory since it was taken over by Audi AG (which is owned by Volkswagen AG) just before the turn of the century.



<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/Lamborghini_Revuelto2.jpg.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234794770" style="width:841px;height:auto" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Lamborghini_Revuelto2.jpg.webp 1000w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Lamborghini_Revuelto2.jpg-300x169.webp 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Lamborghini_Revuelto2.jpg-768x432.webp 768w" sizes="(max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">The hybrid Revuelto is sold out through 2026Andy Casano</figcaption></figure>



Lamborghini didn’t provide a breakdown of its sales by vehicle. The company did claim that all three of its 2024 models—the <a href="https://robbreport.com/motors/cars/review-lamborghini-urus-s-1234854422/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Urus</a>, <a href="https://robbreport.com/motors/cars/lamborghini-revuelto-hybrid-1235423272/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Revuelto</a>, and <a href="https://robbreport.com/motors/cars/gallery/lamborghini-huracans-ranked-1235563169/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Huracán</a>—recorded “balanced growth,” though. That would likely mean that the Urus deserves most of the credit for the record. The <a href="https://robbreport.com/tag/suv/">SUV</a> has consistently been the brand’s best-selling model since its <a href="https://robbreport.com/motors/cars/car-of-the-year-2019-2839752/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">introduction as part of the 2018 model year</a>and accounted for 60 percent of its sales in 2023, the last year for which vehicle-specific delivery information was available. An updated hybrid version called the <a href="https://robbreport.com/motors/cars/first-drive-lamborghini-urus-se-plug-in-hybrid-suv-1235963275/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Urus SE</a> debuted this past spring.



Lamborghini did provide sales numbers by macro-region, each of which also experienced growth in 2024. Leading the way, was Europe-Middle East-Africa region, where sales were up by 6 percent, to 4,227 units. In the Americas region, sales grew by 7 percent, as 3,712 units were moved, and in Asia-Pacific region sales increased by 3 percent, reaching 2,748 units.



<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/temerario01.jpg-2-1024x576.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234794771" style="width:839px;height:auto" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/temerario01.jpg-2-1024x576.webp 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/temerario01.jpg-2-300x169.webp 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/temerario01.jpg-2-768x432.webp 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/temerario01.jpg-2.webp 1200w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Deliveries of the Temerario are set to begin in 2025Lamborghini</figcaption></figure>



There’s a chance things could be about to get even better for Lamborghini. As strong as last year’s sales numbers were, they don’t include the company’s latest car, the hybrid <a href="https://robbreport.com/motors/cars/new-lamborghini-temerario-huracan-replacement-hybrid-supercar-1235820166/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Temerario</a>, which will replace the outgoing Huracán as the lineup’s third model in 2025. Deliveries of the Urus and Revuelto figure to hold steady, too, as both vehicles are sold out through 2026. A fourth model, expected to be the <a href="https://robbreport.com/motors/cars/gallery/lamborghini-lanzador-ev-concept-1234883850/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Lanzador</a> electric grand tourer concept, will arrive before the end of the decade as well.

Lamborghini

sales record

Lamborghini Sets Another Sales Record in 2024, Moving More Than 10,000 Cars

The finish line is in sight for the road-going <a href="https://robbreport.com/motors/cars/glickenhaus-supercars-baja-buggy-2781581/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Glickenhaus 004</a>.



The street-legal versions of the American-made <a href="https://robbreport.com/tag/supercar/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">supercar</a> are finally going into production more than seven years after the vehicle was first announced. The two variants, the <a href="https://www.hkmotorcars.com/004" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">004S and 004CS</a>, will sold by <a href="https://www.hkmotorcars.com/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">HK Motorcars</a>.



The 004 is a throwback of sorts. The low-slung speed machine is bound to remind more than a few people of the vehicle that laid the groundwork for the modern-day supercar, the McLaren F1. Like Gordon Murray’s most famous creation, it has a curvaceous carbon-fiber body and a bubble cockpit that seats three (the driver up front and their two passengers just behind them). It’s not powered by a V-12 like the F1, but a supercharged V-8 produces an impressive 650 horses. If all that wasn’t enough to entice you, how about this: that output is funneled to the rear wheels via a six-speed manual gearbox.



<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/glickenhaus03.jpg-1024x576.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234793946" style="width:841px;height:auto" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/glickenhaus03.jpg-1024x576.webp 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/glickenhaus03.jpg-300x169.webp 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/glickenhaus03.jpg-768x432.webp 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/glickenhaus03.jpg.webp 1200w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Glickenhaus 004CSHK Motorcars/Facebook</figcaption></figure>



It is, in other words, the kind of supercar that purists dream of. And now, thanks to HK Motorcars, it is finally available. The dealer, which is based out of Mount Kisco, New York, has opened up the order books for both versions of the supercar. The cars share the same general look and powertrain but stand apart thanks to some unique features.



The 004S is a true high-performance vehicle, but one that you can also drive comfortably on a daily basis. Both versions of the supercar come with climate control, a backup camera, and charging ports, but the less aggressive variant adds a six-way adjustable rear seat and Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity. It is also, Glickenhaus claims, the first supercar to pass an NHTSA crash safety impact test despite not coming equipped with airbags.



<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/glickenhaus02.jpg-1024x576.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234793947" style="width:839px;height:auto" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/glickenhaus02.jpg-1024x576.webp 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/glickenhaus02.jpg-300x169.webp 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/glickenhaus02.jpg-768x432.webp 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/glickenhaus02.jpg.webp 1200w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Inside the 004HK Motorcars/Facebook</figcaption></figure>



The 004CS is the more hardcore of the pair. It wears a more aggressive aero-kit that includes front-wheel louvres, a rear hood scoop, and a blown rear diffuser. It also features bigger brakes, a front suspension lift system, and center-lock wheels wrapped in Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 tires.



If you’ve been waiting for a chance to add the 004 to your collection you might want to reach out to HK Motorcars soon. The company’s website shows that as of press time, three 004S and one 004CS build slots are available. Pricing for both models starts at US$450,000.

American-made

Glickenhaus 004

HK Motorcars

Manual transmission

This New 3-Seat Supercar Is a Street-Legal Beast With a Manual Transmission

A drive around town isn’t the only way to show off your <a href="https://robbreport.com/tag/bugatti/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Bugatti</a>.



The French marque has teamed up with Germany-based <a href="https://fahrengold.com/en-us" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Fahrengold</a> on a new luxury garage called the Bugatti Edition FG-01. The slick structure includes almost everything needed to keep a hypercar in tip-top shape and doubles as an ultra-slick display case for the vehicle.



Bugatti is quick to point out that it doesn’t build cars, it builds “bespoke work[s] of art.” As such, the <a href="https://robbreport.com/motors/cars/bugatti-restores-first-veyron-grand-sport-1234625495/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Veyron</a>, <a href="https://robbreport.com/motors/cars/bugatti-chiron-super-sport-lultime-final-example-1235633592/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Chiron</a> and just-unveiled <a href="https://robbreport.com/motors/cars/bugatti-tourbillon-hybrid-hypercar-revealed-1235660589/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Tourbillon</a> are really more suited to being parked in a museum rather than a grease-stained garage. Not every Bugatti owner has access to the former, though, which is where the FG-01 comes in.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/fg0102.jpg-1024x576.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234794635" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/fg0102.jpg-1024x576.webp 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/fg0102.jpg-300x169.webp 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/fg0102.jpg-768x432.webp 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/fg0102.jpg.webp 1200w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Bugatti X Fahrengold Bugatti Edition FG-01 Garage Image courtesy of Bugatti</figcaption></figure>



Bugatti and Fahrengold’s garage is a structure with an anodised frame specifically designed to hold a seven-figure hypercar. The FG-01 includes its own security system, temperature and moisture regulation systems, and plenty of storage for tools and other driving gear. But what’s likely to really appeal to most Bugatti owners is that one of its sides has a floor-to-ceiling window that offers a completely unobstructed view of the vehicle inside. Additionally, there are built-in tire protection pads, as well as a personalised plaque identifying the vehicle.



Each Bugatti is the product of intense collaboration between the automaker and its owner, and so is the FG-01. Each of the garages is specifically tailored to be a perfect match for the vehicle it will house. It takes eight to 12 weeks to create the structure and a shockingly quick 30 minutes to set it up upon delivery, <a href="https://www.topgear.com/car-news/supercars/a-life-sized-toy-box-your-bugatti" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">according to Top Gear</a>.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/fg0103.jpg-1024x576.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234794636" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/fg0103.jpg-1024x576.webp 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/fg0103.jpg-300x169.webp 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/fg0103.jpg-768x432.webp 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/fg0103.jpg.webp 1200w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Image courtesy of Bugatti </figcaption></figure>



“Whether at a client’s residence, a museum, or an exhibition, this collaboration ensures that every Bugatti masterpiece is presented with the same artistry and care that defines its creation,” Wiebke Ståhl, Bugatti International’s managing director, said in a statement.



It’d be nice if Bugatti owners would actually drive their <a href="https://robbreport.com/tag/hypercars/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">hypercars</a>, but if they insist on locking them away, this seems like a decent way to do so. No price is mentioned in the announcement, but it seems safe to say that the Bugatti Edition FG-01 Garage will cost a pretty penny. And if all this seems a bit much, don’t worry, because Bugatti and Fahrengold are also selling custom-made CarPads to display the vehicles with a little less fuss.

Bugatti

Garage

Luxury

ultra-luxury

Bugatti’s New Ultra-Luxury Garages Are Custom Made for Your Hypercar

<a href="https://robbreport.com/tag/tag-heuer/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">TAG Heuer</a> wasn’t about to let a chance to celebrate the legendary driver <a href="https://robbreport.com/tag/ayrton-senna/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Ayrton Senna</a> pass it by.



The Swiss watchmaker is teaming up with the late <a href="https://robbreport.com/tag/formula-1/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Formula 1</a> icon’s eponymous brand to release a special <a href="https://robbreport.com/style/watch-collector/tag-heuer-carrera-963-chronograph-porsche-1235653719/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Carrera</a> chronograph. The limited-edition timepiece is set to drop later this year to coincide with the release of <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LT7h6sUeUhU" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Senna</a>, a six-part <a href="https://robbreport.com/tag/netflix/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Netflix</a> mini-series based on the driver’s life that stars Gabriel Leone.



The exclusive Carrera Chronograph Tourbillon x Senna is the latest chapter in a relationship that dates back to 1988. It was during his time as a TAG Heuer brand ambassador that Senna achieved the success that made him one of the sport’s most revered figures, winning three driver’s championships—in 1988, 1991, and 1993—and setting several records on the track.



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The collaboration between the driver and watchmaker culminated in the release of his first signature timepiece, the <a href="https://magazine.tagheuer.com/en/2022/05/02/the-ultimate-collectors-guide-tag-heuer-senna-special-editions/#:~:text=1994%20%2D%20THE%20FIRST%20TAG%20HEUER%20SENNA%20SPECIAL%20EDITION&amp;text=The%20TAG%20Heuer%206000%20Senna,with%20the%20driver's%20creative%20involvement." target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">6000 Senna Limited Edition</a>, in 1994, the same year before he tragically died following an accident at the San Marino Grand Prix. The agreement to create the watch was <a href="https://www.tagheuer.com/is/en/vintage-collection/tag-heuer-6000-series.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">reached two days before the fatal crash</a> in Imola, Italy. Several references celebrating the driver have been released over the years, including two chronograph <a href="https://robbreport.com/style/watch-collector/gallery/best-new-tourbillons-2024-1235611370/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">tourbillons</a> in the Carrera collection in 2018 and 2019.



The third Senna Carrera is still being finalised, but TAG Heuer has shared some tantalising details about the timepiece. The watch has been designed to be something the driver would have actually wanted to wear and features several elements that reference his life and racing career. These include a carbon bezel inscribed with a tachymeter scale that goes to 400 km/h, a reworked skeletonised dial that incorporates a checkered flag motif, and a 44 mm caseback that reveals an image of Senna with helmet.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="681" height="383" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/tagsennna01.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234793044" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/tagsennna01.webp 681w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/tagsennna01-300x169.webp 300w" sizes="(max-width: 681px) 100vw, 681px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Ayrton Senna with TAG Heuer watch. Image courtesy of TAG Heuer</figcaption></figure>



In addition to the exclusive release, several TAG Heuer watches can be seen in Senna, its star, Leone, recently told Robb Report. The actor, who is also an ambassador for the watchmaker, revealed that he wore two of its timepieces in the series, a Carrera 409 the driver is given by his character’s father and a Senna S/EL Link Chronograph S25.706C. The vintage watches help ground the show in the 1980s and 1990s, while also serving as a reminder of the brief-but-intense life lived by Senna.



“When you think about a watch, it’s like having time on your wrist,” Leone told us. “He loved watches, so they were important to us, not only as an object, but a concept.”



Luckily, we won’t have to wait much longer to see the finished Carrera Chronograph Tourbillon x Senna. The watch is expected to launch in November, shortly before the 4 December premier of Senna. The timepiece will be limited to just 500 pieces, and is priced at 37,000 CHF, which works out to around US$43,375 (HK$337,205).

Ayrton Senna

Formula 1

TAG Heuer

TAG Heuer Is Releasing a New Carrera Watch With Netflix’s ‘Senna’ Series This Autumn

It was one small decision for <a href="https://robbreport.com/tag/omega/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Omega</a>, one giant win for <a href="https://robbreport.com/tag/watch/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">watch</a> collectors.



The Swiss watchmaker has re-released the first <a href="https://robbreport.com/tag/speedmaster/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Speedmaster</a> that went to space, combining classic 1950s styling with modern horological innovations.



Launched in 1959, the original watch (Ref. CK 2998) was the successor to the first Speedmaster model that Omega unveiled in 1957. It featured a symmetrical 39.7 mm case, a dark bezel, and slender Alpha hands that set it apart from the previous iteration. <a href="https://robbreport.com/tag/nasa/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NASA</a> astronaut Walter “Wally” Schirra famously wore the second-gen Speedy on the Mercury-Atlas 8: Sigma 7 mission of 1962, earning it the title of “first Omega in Space.” Omega did drop a model in 2012 to honour this feat but discontinued it in 2021. The “First Omega in Space” is now back, with a bold new look.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="820" height="1024" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/Speedmaster_Space4-820x1024.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234792269" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/Speedmaster_Space4-820x1024.webp 820w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/Speedmaster_Space4-240x300.webp 240w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/Speedmaster_Space4-768x959.webp 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/Speedmaster_Space4.webp 1200w" sizes="(max-width: 820px) 100vw, 820px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">A close-up of the dial. Image courtesy of Omega</figcaption></figure>



The contemporary release takes design cues from the CK 2998, maintaining the same polished-brushed stainless-steel case, triple-register chronograph display, and domed crystal. The CVD-coated dial is finished in a grey-blue hue that appeared on some CK 2998 models produced in the 1960s, while the black aluminium bezel features the signature “Dot-Over-Ninety” tachymeter bezel synonymous with the earliest Speedys. The hour markers and Alpha hands are filled with Super-LumiNova in a golden hue that gives an aged quality. In keeping with that historic feel, vintage Omega logos have been added to the dial and crown.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="819" height="1024" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/Speedmaster_Space2-819x1024.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234792270" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/Speedmaster_Space2-819x1024.webp 819w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/Speedmaster_Space2-240x300.webp 240w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/Speedmaster_Space2-768x960.webp 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/Speedmaster_Space2.webp 1200w" sizes="(max-width: 819px) 100vw, 819px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">The engraved caseback. Image courtesy of Omega</figcaption></figure>



The major difference between the two is the movement. The original was powered by the Calibre 321, while the modern edition is driven by the Calibre 3861. The hand-wound movement, which has the all-important Master Chronometer certification from METAS, offers the highest standard of precision, performance, and magnetic resistance, according to Omega. It has a frequency of 21,600 beats per hour (3 Hz) and a power reserve of 50 hours.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="819" height="1024" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/Speedmaster_Space3-819x1024.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234792271" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/Speedmaster_Space3-819x1024.webp 819w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/Speedmaster_Space3-240x300.webp 240w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/Speedmaster_Space3-768x960.webp 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/Speedmaster_Space3.webp 1200w" sizes="(max-width: 819px) 100vw, 819px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">The stainless-steel bracelet. Image courtesy of Omega</figcaption></figure>



The new Speedmaster also has a couple of special, sentimental touches. The caseback showcases an integrated Seahorse medallion and the engravings “Speedmaster,” “The First Omega in Space” and “October 3, 1962.” The latter is the date that the Mercury-Atlas spacecraft took off from the Canaveral Air Force Station in Florida, orbiting the Earth six times, before landing in the Pacific Ocean. Schirra was the sole occupant of the spacecraft, completing the nine-hour mission with his trusty Speedmaster on his wrist.



The new Speedmaster First Omega in Space costs US$7,500 (HK$58,265) with a leather strap or US$7,900 (HK$61,375) with a steel bracelet.

Omega

Speedmaster

Omega Just Re-Released Its First Watch to Ever Go to Space

<a href="https://robbreport.com/tag/richard-mille/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Richard Mille</a> is having fun again. The <a href="https://robbreport.com/style/watch-collector/lists/the-greatest-independent-watchmakers-1235792096/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">independent Swiss watchmaker</a> is known for avant-garde designs and technical prowess, but in recent years, the company has also been having a blast playing around with colour. In 2019, it debuted a collection of <a href="https://robbreport.com/style/watch-collector/cecile-guenat-changing-face-of-watchmaking-2850488/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">candy-themed watches</a> in confectionary bubblegum pink and mint green, shocking the watch industry with a downright radical approach to six-figure timepieces (all of which sold out instantly). Last year, Richard Mille made a splash with its <a href="https://robbreport.com/style/watch-collector/richard-mille-memphis-watches-1235068750/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">RM 07-01 watches</a> inspired by Ettore Sottsass’s very distinctive 1980s-era Memphis Movement, which resulted in a kaleidoscope of geometric shapes and colours on dials set in ceramic cases that ranged from baby blue and cotton-candy pink to lilac with straps in teal, coral, and canary yellow. Following up on the hue-happy vibe, Mille just released four strikingly vivid sapphire crystal <a href="https://www.richardmille.com/collections/rm-07-02-automatic-sapphire" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">RM 07-02 models</a> in lime green (two different versions in the colour), lilac, and fuchsia.



<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/rm_07_02_green_sapphire_3_4_front_boon_wb.jpg-1024x576.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234794644" style="width:839px;height:auto" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/rm_07_02_green_sapphire_3_4_front_boon_wb.jpg-1024x576.webp 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/rm_07_02_green_sapphire_3_4_front_boon_wb.jpg-300x169.webp 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/rm_07_02_green_sapphire_3_4_front_boon_wb.jpg-768x432.webp 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/rm_07_02_green_sapphire_3_4_front_boon_wb.jpg.webp 1200w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">The new RM-07 in a minty green. Image courtesy of Richard Mille</figcaption></figure>



Richard Mille was the first to make a watch case entirely of sapphire crystal in 2012, so the material is a bit of a speciality at the house. Creating coloured sapphire crystal is an added layer of difficulty in an already challenging and expensive process. The material is a synthetic form of aluminium oxide, one of the hardest substances second only to diamond. As a result, cases have to be machined with diamond-tipped tools. It can take hundreds of hours to machine the material, and room for error is so slim that a small mistake can destroy the entire piece. Coloured sapphire is even more difficult because achieving consistency in the hue is highly challenging and increases production time—one case can take over 1,000 hours just for the machining.<video muted=""></video>



<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/rm_07_02_pink_sapphire_set_3_4_front_boon_wb.jpg-1024x576.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234794645" style="width:839px;height:auto" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/rm_07_02_pink_sapphire_set_3_4_front_boon_wb.jpg-1024x576.webp 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/rm_07_02_pink_sapphire_set_3_4_front_boon_wb.jpg-300x169.webp 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/rm_07_02_pink_sapphire_set_3_4_front_boon_wb.jpg-768x432.webp 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/rm_07_02_pink_sapphire_set_3_4_front_boon_wb.jpg.webp 1200w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">RM-07 in pink. Image courtesy of Richard Mille</figcaption></figure>



Coloured sapphire crystal isn’t a novelty at the Swiss manufacture, however. It has been making a range of colours in the material since 2015. What’s new here is the lilac version and cool new dial designs. Diamonds, blue sapphires, and yellow sapphires are mixed with stones such as orange spessartite, white agate, or opal, as well as green tsavorite, chrysoprase, and malachite in chevron-style arrangements.



Beneath the eye-catching surface is the skeletonised CRMA5 automatic movement with a variable-geometry rotor, which means the watch winds by the activity of the wearer by the adjustment of two small weights. It boasts 50 hours of power reserve and features baseplates and bridges in either 18-carat red gold or white gold that are hand-microblasted and chamfered. And, just in case that’s not enough, even the oscillating weight is decked in diamonds.



<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/rm_07_02_lilac_sapphire_3_4_front_boon_wb.jpg-1024x576.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234794646" style="width:839px;height:auto" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/rm_07_02_lilac_sapphire_3_4_front_boon_wb.jpg-1024x576.webp 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/rm_07_02_lilac_sapphire_3_4_front_boon_wb.jpg-300x169.webp 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/rm_07_02_lilac_sapphire_3_4_front_boon_wb.jpg-768x432.webp 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/rm_07_02_lilac_sapphire_3_4_front_boon_wb.jpg.webp 1200w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">RM-07 in lilac. Image courtesy of Richard Mille</figcaption></figure>



What is fun and somewhat exceptional about these watches is their unisex appeal. While they might seem to skew toward women’s design, they are just big enough for men to rock while playing into the&nbsp;<a href="https://robbreport.com/style/watch-collector/small-mens-watches-trend-1234825319/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">smaller sizing trend</a>, though certainly not the&nbsp;<a href="https://robbreport.com/style/watch-collector/small-dress-watches-are-back-1235821302/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">trend toward quieter dress watches</a>. Take, for instance, Boston Celtics power forward Jayson Tatum’s lilac and canary yellow&nbsp;<a href="https://robbreport.com/style/watch-collector/jayson-tatum-richard-mille-kids-watch-1235899556/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">RM 07-01</a>, which he recently showed off at a press conference in Abu Dhabi in October. Sporting unusual wrist candy has become par for the course with athletes—Dwayne Wade was spotted in a tiny Tiffany &amp; Co. Eternity timepiece for the Academy Museum gala in October.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large is-resized"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="577" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Tatum_RM.jpg-1-1024x577.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234794648" style="width:842px;height:auto" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Tatum_RM.jpg-1-1024x577.webp 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Tatum_RM.jpg-1-300x169.webp 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Tatum_RM.jpg-1-768x433.webp 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Tatum_RM.jpg-1.webp 1200w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Image courtesy of X/Richard Mille</figcaption></figure>



As a result of the trend, timepieces like these are becoming harder to come by, and these new RMs will be no exception. Only seven of each version will be available globally.

Richard Mille

Sapphire Crystal Watches

Swiss

Watches

Richard Mille Just Dropped 4 Technicolor Sapphire Crystal Watches

<a href="https://robbreport.com/tag/rolex/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Rolex</a> has long been the <a href="https://robbreport.com/food-drink/dining/restaurant-thefts-nyc-rolex-patek-philippe-1235698756/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">catnip for robbers</a>, and reports of Rolex thefts have increased with a vengeance over the last couple of years. Crimes have been reported everywhere, from <a href="https://robbreport.com/style/watch-collector/rolex-thief-nyc-1235808553/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NYC</a> to the <a href="https://robbreport.com/style/watch-collector/rolex-robberies-bay-area-california-1234741619/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Bay Area of California </a>to <a href="https://robbreport.com/style/watch-collector/watch-thefts-rise-targeting-rolex-patek-1234784453/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">London and Paris</a>. A new company, Orkos, thinks it has the solution for keeping your Rollie on your wrist.



<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/WAT04_Visuel-2_boucle-acier-PS_Nocturne_ind01.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234793707" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/WAT04_Visuel-2_boucle-acier-PS_Nocturne_ind01.webp 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/WAT04_Visuel-2_boucle-acier-PS_Nocturne_ind01-300x169.webp 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/WAT04_Visuel-2_boucle-acier-PS_Nocturne_ind01-768x432.webp 768w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Image courtesy of Orkos</figcaption></figure>



After French entrepreneur Sébastien Buonomo nearly lost his Rolex GMT-Master II, given to him by his late brother, he devised a system to ensure his prized heirloom would always remain in his possession. Alongside watchmaker Bruno Herbert, the duo invented <a href="https://orkos-watches.com/en/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Watchlock</a>, a bracelet clasp with an integrated micro-locking system that effectively locks your timekeeper. Made from 316 L 1.4441 stainless steel and fully assembled in Switzerland, the system uses a micro-locking system with a key. When the key is inserted, the deployment buckle can be used conventionally. When the key is pulled out, it fastens the micro-lock, effectively locking the clasp in place so there is no risk of someone grabbing it off your wrist without taking your arm with it. It also prevents loss during swimming, diving, or other sporting activities. The <a href="https://robbreport.com/tag/watchlock/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Watchlock</a> system is currently available for Airking, DateJust, and Daytona models.



<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/ORKOS-18MARS-_293.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234793706" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/ORKOS-18MARS-_293.webp 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/ORKOS-18MARS-_293-300x169.webp 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/ORKOS-18MARS-_293-768x432.webp 768w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Image courtesy of Orkos</figcaption></figure>



It certainly seems like a good idea for those travelling to destinations known for widespread theft or for any adventure-ready trips. The catch is that it cost €680 (approximately US$708/HK$5,510 at current exchange). That’s a small price to pay to prevent your US$15,100 (HK$117,535) Daytona from being snatched off your wrist (particularly when you factor in its secondary market value). But the <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XOeVM4wk0Ck&amp;t=1s" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Watchlock system </a>also requires a bit of handiwork. The folding clasp comes with a Bergeon SA x Orkos tool kit, including a screwdriver, pump driver, magnifier x 4, and microfibre, as well as a 5 ml tube of Loctite 243 thread locker to optimise the tightening and locks of the screws when reassembling the Watchlock buckle. It also comes with a smart and sage key holder for removing and securing the key (a total of three are supplied). For the average consumer, that’s a lot of work. But on the company’s Instagram, @orkos_watchparts, it does offer free installation at one of its distributors or watchmakers. Again, that’s a bit of an inconvenience. On the other hand, if you have an insanely valuable Rollie it could be worth it in certain circumstances.



<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/ORKOS-18MARS-_097.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234793705" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/ORKOS-18MARS-_097.webp 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/ORKOS-18MARS-_097-300x169.webp 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/ORKOS-18MARS-_097-768x432.webp 768w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Image courtesy of Orkos</figcaption></figure>



Questions remain about the product’s practicality, and we’ve sent queries to the brand that have not yet been answered. As one of my colleagues pointed out, “What happens if you’re travelling and forget the key at home? Will you need to wear the watch the whole time? That wouldn’t be fun, haha.” Indeed, you would be putting its water resistance to the test daily. While it does come with extra keys, if you happened to forget them while travelling, you would be in quite a predicament. Nevertheless, Orkos may be on to something here, and we’ll be curious to see if it catches on.

Orkos

Watchlock

This New Watch Clasp Aims to Keep Your Rolex From Being Stolen

Perched on a balcony high above a crowd of retailers, clients, and press, <a href="https://robbreport.com/tag/patek-philippe/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Patek Philippe</a> president Thierry Stern lorded over the official unveiling of the brand’s first new collection in 25 years, <a href="https://robbreport.com/style/watch-collector/patek-philippe-debuts-cubitus-collection-watches-1235953276/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">the Cubitus</a>. The October event, held about an hour outside Munich, was supposed to provide the first glimpse of the latest offering, but the much-anticipated reveal was spoiled when an ad for the timepiece leaked online a few days before, sending social-media commentators into a frenzy. Word of the release caught like wildfire, but the response was anything but warm. (Even The New York Times went so far as to compare it, if unfairly, to a US$717 (HK$5,580) model from an English microbrand powered by a cheap Miyota movement.)



None of this seems to have stopped demand for the Cubitus, and it didn’t take long for seasoned collectors to start bragging about receiving their orders. Among the first was American rapper NORE, born Victor Santiago Jr, who <a href="https://www.instagram.com/therealnoreaga/p/DCOdmuEuyGu/?img_index=1" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">posted photos and videos</a> of himself opening his two-tone Cubitus (Ref. 5821/1AR) just four days after its launch. 



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="683" height="1024" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Patek_CubitusGreenDial-683x1024.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234793479" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Patek_CubitusGreenDial-683x1024.webp 683w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Patek_CubitusGreenDial-200x300.webp 200w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Patek_CubitusGreenDial-768x1152.webp 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Patek_CubitusGreenDial-1024x1536.webp 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Patek_CubitusGreenDial.webp 1200w" sizes="(max-width: 683px) 100vw, 683px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Patek Philippe’s much-anticipated Cubitus is available in three references: steel with a green dial (above); a calendar watch with a blue dial; and a two-tone time-and-date. Image courtesy of Patek Philippe</figcaption></figure>



Even if you run watchmaking’s most revered brand, releasing a new collection is no easy feat—especially when it comes two and a half decades after the previous one. The weight of the watch world’s expectations was upon Stern’s shoulders. In response, Patek’s head honcho produced what many pundits agreed was a rather simple design; the time-and-date pieces were so straightforward, in fact, that watch enthusiasts complained they were just reinterpretations of existing Nautilus models housed in a larger 45 mm case. 



The Cubitus line includes three references: Ref. 5821/1A comes in steel with an olive-green dial—if you can get it at retail, it will cost US$41,243 (HK$320,935)—and the aforementioned two-tone version has a blue dial for US$61,276 (HK$476,825). A third iteration, Ref. 5822P, has a platinum case with a blue dial and is priced at US$88,378 (HK$687,725); it’s the only Cubitus to sport a strap. It houses the new Calibre 240 PS CI J LU and combines a large date window, moon phase, and day-of-the-week indications, all of which can be changed simultaneously in 18 milliseconds. The watch has six patents pending (many of which concern the perfect alignment of the date digits and the ability to correct the indications at any time of day), proving that you can’t judge the Cubitus by its cover. 



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="683" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Patek_CubitusBlue.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234793480" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Patek_CubitusBlue.webp 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Patek_CubitusBlue-300x200.webp 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Patek_CubitusBlue-768x512.webp 768w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Calendar watch with a blue dial. Image courtesy of Patek Philippe</figcaption></figure>



As for the comparisons to the best-selling Nautilus, “they’re right,” Stern admits, noting that he looked to both the Nautilus and the Aquanaut when creating the Cubitus. “Today, I have an amazing line with the DNA of the other one—that’s what I do,” he says. “I also do it with the Calatrava line or the complications, all of them. You should not always reinvent everything from zero,” he adds. “Take the best of what you know and improve it.” It’s a winning formula for other luxury brands, after all—Hermès, Rolex, and Ferrari do this sort of thing all the time. 



<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/PAtek-Cubitus-Two-Tone-with-Cuff-Links.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234793481" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/PAtek-Cubitus-Two-Tone-with-Cuff-Links.webp 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/PAtek-Cubitus-Two-Tone-with-Cuff-Links-300x169.webp 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/PAtek-Cubitus-Two-Tone-with-Cuff-Links-768x432.webp 768w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">The Cubitus two-tone with matching cuff links.</figcaption></figure>



Yet Stern insists the idea behind the Cubitus is not to stay stuck in the past, but instead to attract new customers. “I cannot only stay with the older clients—and I will not lose them—but I also know that at one point they will be gone, and the new ones should also be part of it.” His ideal Cubitus buyer is someone young and active, who might be just starting a new business—and in the same breath he adds that, unless that person is already a VIP client, they’ll have to get in line. “It will be the same as the Aquanaut,” he notes. “The first year might be a bit difficult for the newcomer to have it, but after that, it will be easier.” The nonchalant admission only seemed to further drive home the message: There’s nothing radically new here. And yet it’s all anyone can talk about—which is just the way Patek Philippe likes it.

Cubitus

Patek Philippe

Patek Philippe’s Buzzy New Cubitus Line Is Not Radically New—and That’s the Whole Point

Sotheby’s had a record-setting weekend—four times over.



The auction house’s live watch sales in Geneva broke four world records, with two occurring in the Important <a href="https://robbreport.com/tag/watches/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Watches</a> event and two coming in the Treasures of Time sale. In total, the two auctions combined for an impressive US$22.9 million (HK$178.2 million), with more than 27 per cent of the lots hammering down for more than their high estimate.



Two of the world records came for <a href="https://robbreport.com/style/watch-collector/gallery/sothebys-will-auction-a-31-piece-watch-collection-full-of-rare-patek-philippes-1235845907/lot-16-patek-philippe-first-series-reference-2499-pink-gold-perpetual-calendar-chronograph-moon-phases-and-wenger-case-est-2500000-5000000-chf-1/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Patek Philippe timepieces</a>, some of the most coveted among collectors. A Ref. 1563—a yellow-gold split-second chronograph with luminous Breguet numerals and hands made in 1947—fetched US$3.8 million (HK$29.5 million). One of just three known examples of the reference, the watch includes the case of Patek’s 1463, but it was made larger to include the movement of the brand’s 1436. Then a Patek Ref. 2499 Black Dial hammered down for US$2.6 million (HK$20.2 million). That timepiece is the only known third-series 2499J (yellow gold) fitted with a black dial, and only six 2499s in total are known to have such a dial.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="681" height="383" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Geneva-Watch-Auction-Patek-Black.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234793415" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Geneva-Watch-Auction-Patek-Black.webp 681w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Geneva-Watch-Auction-Patek-Black-300x169.webp 300w" sizes="(max-width: 681px) 100vw, 681px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">A <a href="https://robbreport.com/tag/patek-philippe/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Patek Philippe</a> Ref. 2499 Black Dial. Image courtesy of Sotheby’s</figcaption></figure>



Elsewhere, a <a href="https://robbreport.com/tag/cartier/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Cartier</a> London Tank “Oblique” was <a href="https://robbreport.com/style/watch-collector/gallery/shaped-watches-headed-to-auction-this-fall-from-rolex-to-patek-philippe-1235980414/lot_65_cartier_tank_oblique_yellow_gold_wristwatch_circa_1970_est_30000_60000_chf/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">auctioned off</a> for a record-breaking US$190,920 (HK$1.48 million). The yellow-gold watch from around 1970 features rare details from the jeweller’s London atelier, including a slimmer case with spring bars and screws between the lugs and no rail track on the dial. And a <a href="https://robbreport.com/tag/rolex/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Rolex</a> Coin watch fetched US$95,460 (HK$742,955): Just 10 versions of the Rolex “50 Pesos” Ref. 3612 were made to commemorate the 150th anniversary of the Treaty of Cordoba. The 39 mm case is shaped like a 50-peso gold coin, while the band is engraved with “Libertad—Independencia.”



“There is plenty of feel positive about the outcome of our live sales, not just the great overall total and the records, but knowing that discerning watch collectors will always be prepared to defend their bids to win outstanding lots, whether from independent or major watchmakers,” Mikael Wallhagen, Sotheby’s head of watches for Europe and the Middle East, said in a statement.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="681" height="383" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Geneva-Watch-Auction-Cartier.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234793414" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Geneva-Watch-Auction-Cartier.webp 681w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Geneva-Watch-Auction-Cartier-300x169.webp 300w" sizes="(max-width: 681px) 100vw, 681px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">A Cartier London Tank “Oblique.” Image courtesy of Sotheby’s</figcaption></figure>



Beyond the record-smashing results, the Sotheby’s Geneva sales point in a positive direction for the collecting market. The majority of bidders overall were under 50 years old, with 32 per cent under 40. Buyers in Europe made up 34 per cent of the sales, with those in the United States and Asia each responsible for 19 per cent of sales. Of those groups, an impressive 60 per cent were under the age of 50.

Cartier

Luxury watches

Rolex

Sotheby’s

Sotheby’s Just Set 4 World Records at Its Geneva Watch Sales

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

What do you get when you put one of the world’s most famous designers and a forward-thinking boat builder together? Answer: A cool-looking hybrid-electric catamaran that blends art and technology.



Italian custom yacht builder <a href="https://robbreport.com/motors/marine/rossi-family-rossinavi-launches-nolimits-yacht-brand-1235517314/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Rossinavi</a> introduced Solsea at Design Miami, which is being held alongside Art Basel Miami. The concept is the result of a three-year collaboration with designer Yves Béhar. The 141-foot catamaran, plus its electric-hybrid propulsion and AI-powered systems, is designed for sustainability. Béhar’s designs add understated elegance across the yacht.



“It’s been an incredible journey to see how Yves Béhar reimagined the naval platform of our hybrid-electric catamaran,” says Federico Rossi, chief operations officer at the shipyard, during the launch event. “He brought a style that is both fresh and refined.”



<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/2024/12/2.-Rossinavi_Yves-Behar_Solsea_2024_06.jpg.jpg-1024x576.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234793978" style="width:839px;height:auto" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/2.-Rossinavi_Yves-Behar_Solsea_2024_06.jpg.jpg-1024x576.webp 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/2.-Rossinavi_Yves-Behar_Solsea_2024_06.jpg.jpg-300x169.webp 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/2.-Rossinavi_Yves-Behar_Solsea_2024_06.jpg.jpg-768x432.webp 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/2.-Rossinavi_Yves-Behar_Solsea_2024_06.jpg.jpg.webp 1200w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">The bow pool, with a mechanical but artistic hardtop, is just one of many design features on Solsea. Image courtesy of Rossinavi Yachts</figcaption></figure>



Features like the bow pool, with delicate, crisscrossed mechanical supports that raise and lower the hardtop, or the artistic curving arches beside the bar on the flybridge, or the stylised wooden walls in the salon all demonstrate the designer’s subtle flourishes.



Béhar’s work is part of the permanent collection at the Cooper Hewitt Smithsonian National Design Museum, and he has had solo exhibitions at the San Francisco Museum of Modern Art and the other at the Musee de Design et D’arts Appliques Contemporains in Lausanne, Switzerland. He has designed hundreds of beautiful, functional objects, including chairs and lighting for Herman Miller, <a href="https://robbreport.com/shelter/home-design/slideshow/the-moma-design-stores-top-5-of-2017/samsung-frame-tv-by-yves-behar/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">frames for Samsung televisions</a>, <a href="https://robbreport.com/style/accessories/yves-behar-making-sunglasses-recycled-ocean-plastic-1234577740/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">sunglasses made from recycled ocean plastic </a>and even <a href="https://robbreport.com/motors/marine/underwater-space-station-2937518/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">underwater research centres</a>.



“When working with clients, my philosophy is to connect emotionally through ideas and content rather than style,” says Béhar. “It’s less about this or that aesthetic and more about meaningful conversations where people come to agreement in terms of approach and direction.”



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="722" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Screenshot-2024-12-11-at-1.48.46 PM-1024x722.png" alt="" class="wp-image-1234793981" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Screenshot-2024-12-11-at-1.48.46 PM-1024x722.png 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Screenshot-2024-12-11-at-1.48.46 PM-300x212.png 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Screenshot-2024-12-11-at-1.48.46 PM-768x541.png 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Screenshot-2024-12-11-at-1.48.46 PM.png 1268w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">The salon has a calming, subtle feel, with lots of muted-tone woodwork.  Image courtesy of Rossinavi Yachts</figcaption></figure>



That’s certainly apparent in his first yacht. Rather than bold statements, there is a timeless look throughout Solsea, bolstered by natural matte wood and bouclé textiles across the interior. The designer also employed recycled ocean plastics and solar panels to enhance sustainability. “For me, Solsea is a return to simpler, more respectful ways to enjoy the oceans while integrating the future of efficient propulsion, and cutting-edge technologies,” says Béhar.



Of course, without the recent launch of <a href="https://robbreport.com/tag/rossinavi/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Rossinavi</a>’s <a href="https://robbreport.com/motors/marine/gallery/rossinavi-ai-catamaran-1235985649/2-animal-instinct/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Sea Wolf X</a>, another 140-foot catamaran, Solsea would be just another fancy concept. But that vessel, which the shipyard showed at the last <a href="https://robbreport.com/motors/marine/gallery/monaco-yacht-show-2024-1235866205/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Monaco Yacht Show</a>, would form a baseline for the technology and design for a future Solsea, if any owner comes forward.



It is also a hybrid electric yacht with batteries, electric engines, and diesel generators, but also contained artificial intelligence software to enhance performance as well as the owners’ and guests’ experiences.&nbsp;Robb Report&nbsp;was the first to exclusively tour the yacht following its delivery in August.



<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/2024/12/2.-Animal-instinct.jpg-1024x576.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234793979" style="width:839px;height:auto" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/2.-Animal-instinct.jpg-1024x576.webp 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/2.-Animal-instinct.jpg-300x169.webp 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/2.-Animal-instinct.jpg-768x432.webp 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/2.-Animal-instinct.jpg.webp 1200w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Rossinavi’s recently launched Sea Wolf X provides a good template for its future power cats. Image courtesy of Rossinavi Yachts</figcaption></figure>



The artificial intelligence system, named Rossinavi AI, hones in on performance and efficiency. It continuously monitors the vessel’s operations, learning from observation and even anticipating guests’ needs. “[The AI] will be able to self-learn, surely surprising even us in the future,” Federico Rossi, chief operating officer of Rossinavi, tells&nbsp;Robb Report.



The AI works in tandem with a series of sensors that are fitted throughout the yacht. These include checking when guests are present in their cabins to prevent unnecessary use of air-conditioning and to switch off TVs that have been left on. When they return, the AI recalls the guests’ exact preferences for temperature and powers up, as if it had continued running the entire time.



The interior lighting throughout the yacht also automatically brightens or dims depending on the time of day and exterior sunlight. It even interacts with the crew to encourage lower-impact behaviors. It also highlights interesting landmarks along the cruise. Presumably,&nbsp;Solsea’s AI system will be even more advanced.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large is-resized"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="724" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/cc99f84d-14a7-2a90-3f6f-2c216302734e.jpg-1024x724.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234793980" style="width:840px;height:auto" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/cc99f84d-14a7-2a90-3f6f-2c216302734e.jpg-1024x724.webp 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/cc99f84d-14a7-2a90-3f6f-2c216302734e.jpg-300x212.webp 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/cc99f84d-14a7-2a90-3f6f-2c216302734e.jpg-768x543.webp 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/cc99f84d-14a7-2a90-3f6f-2c216302734e.jpg-1536x1086.webp 1536w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/cc99f84d-14a7-2a90-3f6f-2c216302734e.jpg.webp 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Behar’s rendition of the upper deck emphasises curves and stylised arches. Image courtesy of Rossinavi Yachts</figcaption></figure>



Of course, another advantage of large catamarans is the wide beam, which dramatically increases the internal volume.&nbsp;Solsea’s full-beam master suite has about the same space as a 229-foot superyacht. It also offers a 180-degree view and direct access to a private external balcony that sits across the twin hulls and connects to the bow.



Perhaps its best feature is the hybrid-electric system. It will power the boat on just the batteries for full-day trips, and even cross the Atlantic at 80 per cent electric mode. That whisper-quiet experience is a game-changer not for power cats but for the whole superyacht world.

AI powered

catamaran

Design Miami

Rossinavi

Salsea

This Curvaceous 140-Foot Hybrid Catamaran Is Powered by AI

The new, multibillion-dollar superyacht destination of <a href="https://robbreport.com/travel/luxury-travel/sindalah-jewel-red-sea-1234834183/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Sindalah Island</a> kicked off its recent inauguration with the mother of all superyacht parties.



Nearly 65 vessels, the majority above 165 feet, journeyed to the northern Red Sea for a lively “Red Sea Week” that featured premium entertainment, wine, cuisine, and waterborne activities.



“We were able to bring together more than 650 of the world’s most accomplished and interesting people,” says Luke Bahrenburg, publisher of <a href="https://robbreport.com/tag/robb-report/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Robb Report</a>, who organised the event on behalf of Penske Media Corporation, Robb Report’s parent company. “We put together unusual, special culinary moments, helicopter rides, water sports, entertainment, and hopefully many unforgettable memories.”



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="681" height="383" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/2.Sindalah2_9b4ff3.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234793253" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/2.Sindalah2_9b4ff3.webp 681w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/2.Sindalah2_9b4ff3-300x169.webp 300w" sizes="(max-width: 681px) 100vw, 681px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Red Sea Week had formal parties, outdoor activities, and many culinary events. Image courtesy of Fight Gravity Films</figcaption></figure>



“The organisers spared no expense and really blew it out of the water,” says Alexander Yulish, a Manhattan-based painter and one of the VIP guests who stayed aboard the 237-foot <a href="https://robbreport.com/motors/marine/6-luxury-charter-yachts-to-explore-remote-destinations-1234658921/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Bleu de Nimes</a>. “The guests were all sorts—from creatives to CEOs to high-net-worth families. There was a lot of mingling, which really added to the event.”



Shows such as the <a href="https://robbreport.com/motors/marine/gallery/monaco-yacht-show-2024-1235866205/'" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Monaco Yacht Show </a>and the <a href="https://robbreport.com/motors/marine/gallery/fort-lauderdale-international-boat-show-best-yachts-2024-1235964017/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show (FLIBS)</a> exhibit <a href="https://robbreport.com/tag/superyachts/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">superyachts</a> to potential buyers, but this event was one of a kind, bringing together yacht owners, captains, world-class chefs, and double the number of guests that organisers had anticipated.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="681" height="383" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/2.1.SindalahMarina-AM.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234793255" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/2.1.SindalahMarina-AM.webp 681w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/2.1.SindalahMarina-AM-300x169.webp 300w" sizes="(max-width: 681px) 100vw, 681px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">The new superyacht marina was the event’s focal point, with 65 superyachts venturing to Sindalah from Europe and other parts of the Middle East. Image courtesy of Fight Gravity Films</figcaption></figure>



Red Sea Week’s superyacht list was as impressive an assemblage as any single event, rivaling even the Monaco Yacht Show. It included <a href="https://robbreport.com/motors/marine/boat-of-the-week-this-sleek-new-180-foot-superyacht-is-like-an-open-air-dance-floor-on-the-water-1234591613/">Geco</a>, Golden Odyssey, <a href="https://robbreport.com/motors/marine/gallery/superyacht-cloudbreak-images-1234856932/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Cloudbreak</a>, <a href="https://robbreport.com/motors/marine/gallery/oceanco-dar-superyacht-1235685559/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Dar</a>, and historical yachts such as <a href="https://robbreport.com/motors/marine/boat-of-the-week-this-historic-325-foot-superyacht-hosted-jfk-winston-churchill-and-elizabeth-taylor-1234876298/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Christina O</a> and <a href="https://robbreport.com/motors/marine/this-240-foot-classic-lurssen-complete-makeover-1234752058/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Coral Ocean</a>.



“I’ve been on many yachts, but this gathering had a totally different feel,” says Yulish. “Their idea of the next iteration of yachting was really inspiring.”



Having been at the first Red Sea Week in <a href="https://robbreport.com/travel/destinations/red-sea-event-2873483/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">2019</a>, Yulish recalls a very different environment. “There was a rawness that was palpable—you could almost see fossils coming out of Sindalah’s seawalls,” he says. “This time around it had a different sense of beauty. They developed it but kept a lot of rock formations and other landmarks to keep the balance between old and new.”



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="681" height="383" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/2.-Sind-CR626138-2.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234793256" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/2.-Sind-CR626138-2.webp 681w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/2.-Sind-CR626138-2-300x169.webp 300w" sizes="(max-width: 681px) 100vw, 681px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Opera singer Katherine Jenkins, along with Alicia Keys and comedian Chris Tucker, performed during the week. Image courtesy of Fight Gravity Films</figcaption></figure>



“Sindalah is one of the world’s first projects to have a single island designed and built from the ground up,” says Luca Dini, an Italian designer responsible for creating the island’s upscale village vibe. The island encompasses just 20 acres, so Dini had to be inventive to create a full-featured luxury environment that also blended in with the coral reefs and clear waters of the Red Sea.



The designer also added features such as “interactive” quartz columns to provide unique sensory experiences and aesthetic appeal. Traditional Saudi elements such as mosaics were reinvented as ceiling coverings, while fibre optics were embedded into the plaster walls to illuminate at night.



On Sindalah’s coastline, hundreds of thousands of coral pieces were relocated to enhance existing reefs. About 30,000 workers contributed to the island’s five-year development.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="681" height="383" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/2.SindalahGolfcourse.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234793257" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/2.SindalahGolfcourse.webp 681w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/2.SindalahGolfcourse-300x169.webp 300w" sizes="(max-width: 681px) 100vw, 681px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">The 20-acre island has a golf course as well as the superyacht marina, high-end retail, and over 38 eateries. Image courtesy of Fight Gravity Films</figcaption></figure>



The island is the first piece of a larger regional jigsaw puzzle, overseen by state development agency Neom, which has a US$500 billion (HK$3.89 trillion) budget to help diversify Saudi Arabia’s economy via its Saudi Vision 2030 initiative.



Other developments include the advanced industrial city Oxagon, a mountain destination called Trojena, and the Line—a linear “smart city” housed in a single building that will be 110 miles long, 660 feet wide, and 1,600 feet tall.



Beyond being the first Neom development to open, Sindalah will be the crown jewel of the initiative. It’s designed not only for the ultra-wealthy, but specifically for superyachts. The goal is to become the next big yachting and charter destination, rivalling the Caribbean for winter cruising.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="681" height="383" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/2.SindRestaurants_016a91.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234793258" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/2.SindRestaurants_016a91.webp 681w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/2.SindRestaurants_016a91-300x169.webp 300w" sizes="(max-width: 681px) 100vw, 681px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Caviar tastings and creative cuisine from Michelin-starred chefs were a central part of the week. Image courtesy of Fight Gravity Films</figcaption></figure>



For hundreds of yachts that make the annual pilgrimage, not having to cross the Atlantic from the Med and come back again for the summer will be a welcome change. “Fuel and maintenance expenses are crazy for any transatlantic trip,” says Captain George Ioannou, captain of the 181-foot Admiral Geco, which cruised to Sindalah in two days from Greece. “It takes a lot out of the boat and the crew.”



The word “amazing” was repeated many times among crew and captains about Sindalah’s new marina. “The facilities and hospitality were exceptional,” says Ionannou. “In this part of the Red Sea, we’re also safe from what’s happening in the rest of the region.”



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="681" height="383" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/2.-Sindalah-copy.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234793259" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/2.-Sindalah-copy.webp 681w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/2.-Sindalah-copy-300x169.webp 300w" sizes="(max-width: 681px) 100vw, 681px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">The marina offers protection but easy access to the local cruising grounds. Image courtesy of Fight Gravity Films</figcaption></figure>



The marina harbour has 85 berths for yachts up to 165 feet, while buoys just outside accommodate gigayachts to 550 feet. The full-service marina includes a yacht club, while the island has a sports club, a spa and wellness centre, more than 51 luxury retail outlets, a golf course, and 38 restaurants, including nine fine-dining establishments and three pop-up eateries on rooftops. 



The island also offers catered cuisine for the superyachts. Neom plans to build other marinas in the area, creating a cruising ground for visiting vessels.



Red Sea Week included a broad swath of owners and yachts from all over the world, including Europe, the US, and Saudi Arabia. Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman announced the island’s development in late 2022, and several members of the Saudi royal family were on hand for the official opening.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="424" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Unknown-1.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234793260" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Unknown-1.webp 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Unknown-1-300x124.webp 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Unknown-1-768x318.webp 768w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">The main stage, built from a converted barge, provided the entertainment all week. Image courtesy of Fight Gravity Films</figcaption></figure>



Red Sea Week featured A-list entertainers such as Alicia Keys, opera singer Katherine Jenkins, and comedian Chris Tucker, as well Saudi entertainers Aref Jaman, Hatoon Idrees, and Eli. Helicopter rides, scuba and snorkelling, private yoga sessions, and personal concierge shopping at Sindalah’s high-end retailers—including Kiton, Jil Sander, and Santoni—were part of the itinerary.



“They had this amazing light show that felt like you were on another planet,” says Yulish. “All these lights pierced the black, inky sky, almost trying to bring the stars onto the ground. It felt like someone’s dream, but was so real you could almost touch and taste it.”



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="681" height="383" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/2.Sindalah-copy.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234793261" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/2.Sindalah-copy.webp 681w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/2.Sindalah-copy-300x169.webp 300w" sizes="(max-width: 681px) 100vw, 681px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Sindalah’s extensive coral reefs will be a big draw. The local waters have 1,100 species of fish. Image courtesy of Neom</figcaption></figure>



The week included tastings of world-class caviar and wine, plus cuisine from two of Italy’s most celebrated chefs, Carlo Cracco and Norbert Niederkofler, as well as other chefs as part of&nbsp;Robb Report’s Culinary Masters event. On the island, 12 eateries will be backed by Michelin-starred chefs.



“The organisers did this week in such a beautiful way,” says Yulish. “The events felt more like life experiences than going to different booths at convention hall. People were sharing what they’d created—whether it was the chefs with their wonderful food or listening to live opera. There was also a kindness that made the week special, spontaneous.”



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="681" height="383" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/2.-SindCR625084.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234793262" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/2.-SindCR625084.webp 681w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/2.-SindCR625084-300x169.webp 300w" sizes="(max-width: 681px) 100vw, 681px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">An idyllic ocean view without crowds. Image courtesy of Fight Gravity Films</figcaption></figure>



Sindalah is still under development, though the marina, <a href="https://robbreport.com/travel/luxury-travel/sindalah-yacht-club-elite-boating-hub-masterminded-italian-design-maestro-stefano-ricci-1235867094/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">yacht club</a>, golf course, and several hotels and restaurants are open for business. Eventually, the island will have 413 luxury hotel rooms and 333 apartments from brands such as Four Seasons and Marriott, along with multiple types of restaurants and high-end retail establishments.



By 2028, organisers expect to accommodate several thousand people per day.



But the kind of welcome the superyacht community received during Red Sea Week was a one-time affair. “Everything was so well curated,” says Yulish. “They only left the magic to chance, but there was no shortage of that, either.”

Red Sea Week

Robb Report

Sindalah Island

Robb Report Throws a Massive Superyacht Bash in the Red Sea to Celebrate the Launch of Sindalah Island

Earlier this year, superyacht builder <a href="https://robbreport.com/tag/oceanco/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Oceanco</a> revealed multiple exteriors for its <a href="https://robbreport.com/motors/marine/oceanco-simply-custom-superyachts-portofino-storm-1235469808/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Simply Custom</a> series. The Dutch builder, which has launched famous superyachts such as <a href="https://robbreport.com/motors/marine/gallery/jeff-bezos-koru-sailing-superyacht-1235852521/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Koru</a>, the world’s largest sailboat for Jeff Bezos, just unveiled interiors for its semi-custom series.



Oceanco revealed the <a href="https://robbreport.com/tag/simply-custom/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Simply Custom</a> concept last year at the <a href="https://robbreport.com/motors/marine/new-launches-concepts-fort-lauderdale-boat-show-1235386402/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show</a>. Unlike the builder’s bespoke superyacht series, Simply Custom all have the same 262-foot lengths, but with one-of-a-kind interiors from some of the world’s most famous yacht designers, including Espen Øino, Lobanov Design, and Nuvolari Lenard.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="681" height="383" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/2.Dini_.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234793150" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/2.Dini_.webp 681w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/2.Dini_-300x169.webp 300w" sizes="(max-width: 681px) 100vw, 681px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">This dramatic beach club has a waterfall and an upper level for dining. Image courtesy of Oceanco</figcaption></figure>



The advantages for buyers include gaining an Oceanco pedigree for the vessel, but with a shorter build time and a range of interiors and exteriors that the client chooses. The yachts will also be available with electric propulsion and interior energy system which adds a sustainability element.



Six world-class interior designers were given a blank canvas to create their interiors, and the results are strikingly different, from Luca Dini’s waterfall through the superyacht’s two-level beach club to the large picture windows on the interior salon by Francois Zuretti.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="681" height="383" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/2.2Zuretti_b59338.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234793151" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/2.2Zuretti_b59338.webp 681w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/2.2Zuretti_b59338-300x169.webp 300w" sizes="(max-width: 681px) 100vw, 681px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Francois Zuretti’s dining area is next to a gigantic picture window for stunning ocean views. Image courtesy of Oceanco</figcaption></figure>



The concepts all share a sense of elegance, and some like Dini’s are groundbreaking. Francois Zuretti and Sebastien Gey of Zuretti Design came up with Terra as a way to “envision the relationship” between the interior and exterior. The interior salon has a dining area in a double-height space with a gigantic window, offering “protection with a dramatic framing of the breathtaking beauty of the sea,” the designers said in a statement. Another lounge actually slides outside on an opening balcony to “stage a great leap towards the oceans.”



Simply Custom is not only a first for the superyacht world, but with the interiors now revealed, it could be the world’s most expensive mix and match.



Click <a href="https://robbreport.com/motors/marine/gallery/oceanco-simply-custom-interiors-photos-1235979237/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">here</a> to learn more about Simply Custom’s interiors.

Oceanco

Simply Custom

Superyacht

You Can Now Have a Two-Story Beach Club With a Waterfall on Your Oceanco Superyacht

<a href="https://robbreport.com/tag/numarine/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Numarine</a>’s first hybrid explorer yacht has hit the seas.



The <a href="https://robbreport.com/motors/marine/numarine-30xp-explorer-yacht-1235406822/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">30XP</a> debuted at the <a href="https://robbreport.com/motors/marine/gallery/cannes-yachting-festival-launches-2024-1235818216/rr-mv-requests-081924-6/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Cannes Yachting Festival</a> in late September, marking the start of a cleaner, greener era for the European yard.



First unveiled in September 2022 to mark Numarine’s 20th anniversary, the <a href="https://www.numarine.com/30XP-Detail3" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">101-foot model</a> sits squarely in the middle of a seven-strong lineup that ranges from 72 to 148 feet. As with the rest of Numarine’s sleek, steel-hulled explorers, the 30XP was designed inside and out by Turkish-based designer Can Yalman but is equipped with a propulsion system that sets her apart from her sisterships.



The newcomer can be powered by either a hybrid setup comprising two electric engines and four 108 kW diesel generators or a traditional drivetrain featuring twin 560 hp MAN engines. Both options give the 101-footer the same maximum speed of around 13 knots, a cruising speed of 10 knots, and a range of 3,000 nautical miles at 8 knots, but the diesel-electric system uses less fuel, produces fewer emissions, and is cheaper to run than conventional gas engines. To further reduce environmental impact, Numarine has incorporated eco-friendly materials and various waste/recycling systems throughout the yacht.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/Numarine_30XP_10.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234792235" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/Numarine_30XP_10.webp 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/Numarine_30XP_10-300x169.webp 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/Numarine_30XP_10-768x432.webp 768w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">The aft decks. Image courtesy of Numarine</figcaption></figure>



The 30XP will be capable of taking owners and their families “far and wide in tremendous comfort and safety,” according to Numarine chairman Ömer Malaz. The explorer will be outfitted with advanced stabilisation systems, high-tech navigation gear, and smart home technologies to elevate the cruising experience. Furthermore, the yacht has a raised pilothouse design that results in a large internal volume of 208 GT.



Penned in partnership with Istanbul-based Ofist Design Studio, the generous living quarters showcase the simplicity, minimalism, and functionality synonymous with Scandinavian design. Think natural stone floors, sisal rugs, and pale oak panelling. The layout can be adapted to meet the requirements of individual clients, but the standard configuration sees a large owner’s suite forward on the main deck, four guest cabins on the lower deck, and a crew quarters for five. The first hull features two VIPs and two standard doubles for guests, plus a lavish owner’s suite with an office and balcony.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/Numarine_30XP_6.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234792236" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/Numarine_30XP_6.webp 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/Numarine_30XP_6-300x169.webp 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/Numarine_30XP_6-768x432.webp 768w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">The salon. Image courtesy of Kerem Sanliman</figcaption></figure>



On the main deck, the light-filled salon is fitted with sliding doors that open to several epic outdoor spaces. Highlights include a plush, alfresco dining area on the aft deck, a semi-open beach club with fold-down wings, and a flybridge with the square footage of a larger yacht. Another standout is the side-loading tender bay, which can accommodate a 19-foot runabout.



“This yacht offers an exceptional onboard experience with its spacious and well-appointed interiors, stunning exterior design, advanced technological features, and sustainable attributes,” Malaz said in a statement.



The 30XP is already proving quite popular, too: Four units have been sold off-plan since 2022. Stay tuned for future launches.



Click <a href="https://robbreport.com/motors/marine/gallery/numarine-30xp-hybrid-superyacht-1235899529/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">here</a> to see all the photos of the first Numarine 30XP.

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