Mandarin Oriental

In the latest edition of Leaders of Luxury, Laurent Kleitman, group chief executive of Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group, discusses the high expectations of luxury customers and his commitment to delivering exceptional experiences that fulfil their dreams and aspirations. With a rich history rooted in iconic hotels, the Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group is set to double its size over the next decade. Kleitman emphasises the importance of personalisation in catering to multi-generational families, ensuring that every guest’s needs are met through curated experiences. He highlights the blend of local essence and graceful service that defines the Mandarin Oriental experience, aiming to create meaningful memories for guests that last long after their stay. What does luxury mean to the man so steeped in its confines? Well, he has a novel twist and an original take on it. 



Video by Chris Yau.

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Interview

Laurent Kleitman

Leaders of Luxury

mandarin oriental

Mandarin Oriental Hotel group

Leaders of Luxury: Laurent Kleitman, Group Chief Executive of Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group

By Michael Verdon, Julie Boatman, and Jen Paolini



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Next-Gen Piloting Is Here</h2>



The fast-approaching era of electric aircraft will transform intracity and regional travel for passengers, but it will also fundamentally change the pilot experience. The new crop of electric vertical-takeoff-and-landing (eVTOL) craft are smaller than most helicopters and conventional planes, but also potentially more complex, with multiple rotors that tilt for hovering and forward motion. That’s supplemented by the need to constantly assess flight conditions in what promise to be busy urban airways, all while managing prop and rotor pitch and adjusting ailerons, rudders, elevators, and landing gear.



How does one lessen the pilot’s burden without compromising safety? The answer, eVTOL leaders Archer and Joby agree, involves unified flight controls, adopted from military programmes such as the F-35B fighter jet. The fly-by-wire systems used by Dassault, Gulfstream, and Bombardier operate on the same principle, with a flight control computer (FCC) linked to a multi-servo digital autopilot. Unlike mechanical systems of older aircraft, where a pilot controls every aspect of flight, here the computer takes over once the pilot inputs commands.



The next generation of unified flight controls are significantly faster, smaller, and more sophisticated. BAE Systems has designed controls that relay pilot input every few milliseconds but are 40 per cent more compact than five years ago. This customised technology is designed to be intuitive for fixed-wing or rotorcraft pilots and far more simplified. 



Joby’s inceptor, or the stick that controls speed, for example, recentres after an input, maintaining the airspeed set by the pilot—similar to cruise control in a car. “If I want to go to 100 knots, I’ll kind of peg the stick,” says Joby’s Greg Bowles. “The number reaches 100, you let go, and it’s going to stay at 100. If you continue to accelerate, it’ll get to a maximum safe top speed and stop.”



“The pilot doesn’t control power,” adds Archer’s Brian Gump. “The pilot commands acceleration or deceleration, a climb or descent, or a heading change, and the FCCs allocate power as required to meet that command.” Archer’s controls include two sticks: the left regulates velocity while the right handles vertical speed and direction. 



These advances signal a new chapter for not only the eVTOL world, but also how pilots train. Flight is not so automated that the aviator is entirely removed from the equation—the pilot still dictates the direction and navigation of the aircraft’s path—but it is a fundamentally new way of flying. Not exactly a magic carpet, but closer than aviation has ever been before.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="683" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/bb-1024x683.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234796192" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/bb-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/bb-300x200.jpg 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/bb-768x512.jpg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/bb-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/bb-2048x1365.jpg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>



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



Gulfstream



G700



Breaking one record for rapid transit is remarkable enough, but what about two? Gulfstream’s ultra-large-cabin G700 did exactly that on recent trips from Savannah to Honolulu, covering the distance in eight hours and 52 minutes at an average speed of Mach 0.9 using a blend of sustainable aviation fuel, and Los Angeles to Sydney in just 14 hours and 26 minutes—that’s two more performancebased honours to swell the G700’s growing tally of city-pair speed records.



Add to that the numerous features that make Gulfstream a commanding presence in its sector—whisper-quiet noise levels, the most spacious cabin in business aviation, 100 per cent freshair ventilation technology, natural-light design with panoramic windows, layout configuration flexibility, the lowest cabin altitude in the industry, and a maximum operating speed of Mach 0.935—and the G700 stands for not only the fastest aircraft in the company’s fleet, but also the most comfortable, providing an unrivalled experience for passengers. 



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="683" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/ee-1024x683.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234796193" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/ee-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/ee-300x200.jpg 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/ee-768x512.jpg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/ee-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/ee-2048x1365.jpg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Jet Card</h3>



Sentient



SJ25+



If there’s a gold standard for jet cards, Sentient, which launched the industry’s first in 1999, can claim the title. Despite the onslaught of competitors, its 25-hour card has remained at the top of the pack even as it celebrates its 25th anniversary. The differentiators: Sentient’s new app allows clients to quote prices and book flights in under 60 seconds via text, its preferred aircraft fleet is top-tier, and the card is backed by a multi-tiered safety structure for its clients, including an independent safety advisory board. Or just consider the numbers over the past 25 years: more than one million passengers flown to over 2,500 destinations; 6,700 active card owners; and revenue growth of 549 per cent. Not to mention the company’s expanding partnerships with luxury hotels and events, which in 2024 offered perks valued at US$225,000 (HK$1.74 million), and its sustainability programme that offsets emissions 300 per cent from each flight with no cost to clients (to date, Sentient has offset 1.34 million metric tons of carbon). 



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="683" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/cc-1024x683.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234796194" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/cc-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/cc-300x200.jpg 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/cc-768x512.jpg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/cc-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/cc-2048x1365.jpg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Super-Midsize Jet</h3>



Textron Aviation



Citation CJ3 Gen2



While it was no surprise that Textron Aviation would sequence through one of its most successful models for next-gen treatment, the Citation CJ3 Gen2 update still rocks, making it our pick for the best of the super-midsize fleet. Inside, the revised CJ3 looks and feels like a bigger jet than its predecessor, with an interior that its engineers are justifiably proud of—from the articulating seats to the use of eco-friendly materials throughout. On the flight deck, the updated Garmin G3000, coupled with the new GDL 60 data link, transforms the pilot’s suite into a connected cockpit. The jet has a max cruise of 416 knots true airspeed, a max range of 2,040 nautical miles, and a landing distance of 2,770 feet. 



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="683" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/ffs-1024x683.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234796195" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/ffs-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/ffs-300x200.jpg 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/ffs-768x512.jpg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/ffs-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/ffs-2048x1365.jpg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Exclusive Experiences</h3>



VistaJet



A global leader in private and business aviation, now with two decades under its belt, VistaJet knows better than most that getting travellers to and from their destination is only one part of the journey. As the demand for tailored experiences continues to rise, the company is reinforcing its commitment to its exclusive Private World programme, creating even more opportunities for VistaJet members to unlock a wealth of unparalleled adventures across the planet. 



From exploring the beautifully restored Bottega Veneta residence in Venice, witnessing spectacular wildlife on a luxury safari in the Serengeti National Park, and cruising through Costa Rica’s waters to discover humpback whales, dolphins, and sea turtles to highly coveted access to Formula 1 racetracks through Ferrari, VistaJet’s Private World collaborations with diverse partners are designed to offer members an everchanging calendar of activities that are personalised, unique, and exciting—not to mention completely unforgettable.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="682" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/a-1024x682.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234796196" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/a-1024x682.jpg 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/a-300x200.jpg 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/a-768x512.jpg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/a-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/a-2048x1365.jpg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Large Cabin</h3>



Dassault



6X



Dassault recently delivered its first long-range 6X, completing a circle that began after the French aerospace firm cancelled its four-year-old 5X programme in 2017 without delivering any aircraft. It stretched the 5X’s fuselage by 20 feet to get the 6X, creating its debut wide-body configuration, which has a wider floor and taller cabin than its competitors. Despite the extra girth, the 6X’s stats are impressive: 5,500-nautical-mile range (delivering nonstop flights from Los Angeles to Geneva or S.o Paulo to London), 16-passenger capacity, and maximum speed of Mach 0.9. The customisable cabin, divided into three zones, has 30 extra-large windows, a full galley, and features such as a low-altitude pressurisation system and circadian-rhythm lights to mitigate jet lag. Fly-by-wire controls and an advanced situational awareness system called Falcon Eye are the cockpit differentiators. Plus, the 6X has paved the way for an even larger wide-body, the ultra-long-range 10X, scheduled for delivery in 2027. 



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="683" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/ffe-1024x683.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234796199" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/ffe-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/ffe-300x200.jpg 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/ffe-768x512.jpg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/ffe-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/ffe-2048x1365.jpg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Light Jet</h3>



Embraer



Phenom 100EX



Embraer leans into the big E with its evolution of the Phenom 100EX. Choose your word: Efficiency, environment, experience—they all play a part to make it the biggestfeeling light jet on the market, which is a particularly crowded segment. Up front, the optional Runway Overrun Awareness and Alerting System (ROAAS) that enhances stabilised approaches adds an extra layer of protection during a critical phase of flight, while the Flight Stream 510 allows the pilot to connect portable electronic devices to the aircraft avionics, thus reducing workload. In the cabin, Embraer’s design team has revised every element—opening up the space, upgrading the seats, increasing workspace by 30 per cent by repositioning tables, and using new combinations of leather, Ultraleather, and veneer to dress up the interior. Stats remain best in class: a top speed of Mach 0.7, a 1,178-nautical-mile range, and a takeoff distance of 3,190 feet.

Aviation

Best of the Best

Best of the Best 2025

Dassault

Gulfstream

Private Jet

Sentient

Textron Aviation

VistaJet

The Best in Wings 2025, From Gulfstream’s G700 and Dassault’s 6X to Textron Aviation’s Citation CJ3 Gen2

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



Sounds like quite the upgrade.

Heathrow

London

Private Terminal

The Windsor

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

<a href="https://www.tcsworldtravel.com/" rel="noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">TCS World Travel</a>&nbsp;is taking the air cruise to new heights.



The <a href="https://robbreport.com/motors/aviation/slideshow/take-these-private-jet-trips-lifetime/tcs-world-travels-around-the-world-culinary-journey/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Seattle-based travel company</a> just unveiled its “most ambitious itinerary to date,” which will allow travellers to visit all seven continents in a month.



The 29-day itinerary, aptly named Seven Continents by&nbsp;<a href="https://robbreport.com/tag/private-jet/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Private Jet</a>, includes stops in 12 iconic destinations, from Machu Picchu, Peru, to the Great Barrier Reef, Australia. Travellers will also embark on some truly incredible experiences, such as walking the otherworldly ice tunnels of Antarctica, trekking across Kenya’s Maasai Mara National Reserve, and exploring the Great Sphinx and the Pyramids of Giza in Cairo.



“Visiting all seven continents in a single journey has long been a dream for TCS World&nbsp;<a href="https://robbreport.com/tag/travel/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Travel</a>, and now it’s a reality,” TCS president Shelley Cline said in a statement.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/TCS_Seven_Continents_1.jpg-1024x576.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234801241" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/TCS_Seven_Continents_1.jpg-1024x576.webp 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/TCS_Seven_Continents_1.jpg-300x169.webp 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/TCS_Seven_Continents_1.jpg-768x432.webp 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/TCS_Seven_Continents_1.jpg.webp 1200w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">The itinerary includes stops in Cairo and Luxor. Image courtesy of TCS World Travel</figcaption></figure>



<a href="https://robbreport.com/travel/destinations/air-cruise-1235786817/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Air cruises</a> have taken off in the past few years, with several firms now offering incredible <a href="https://robbreport.com/travel/destinations/round-the-world-trip-plan-1235865827/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">private jet expeditions</a> that enable high-fliers to live out Jules Verne’s Around the World in Eighty Days at a far greater pace. TCS has carried out 300 jet expeditions to more than 200 destinations over the past 30 years, but has never before offered a seven-continents-in-one adventure.



“Seven Continents is the pinnacle of global adventure—a bucket list experience delivered with comfort, ease, enriching cultural encounters, and the exceptional service our guests know they can expect,” Cline adds.



TCS has also teamed up with White Desert—one of the few companies with commercial jet access to the Antarctic interior—to bring jet-setters even closer to icy tundra. Guests will depart from Cape Town and land on a striking blue-ice runway, before spending a full day immersed in Antarctica’s untouched beauty. Parkas and Baffin boots will, of course, be provided to keep you nice and cosy. As the jaunt will take place during the Antarctic summer, you’ll enjoy 24 hours of sunlight, too.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/TCS_Seven_Continents_4.jpg-1024x576.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234801242" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/TCS_Seven_Continents_4.jpg-1024x576.webp 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/TCS_Seven_Continents_4.jpg-300x169.webp 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/TCS_Seven_Continents_4.jpg-768x432.webp 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/TCS_Seven_Continents_4.jpg.webp 1200w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Travellers will take a trip to Zanzibar, Tanzania, which was not a part of previous Around the World Trips. Image courtesy of TCS World Travel</figcaption></figure>



That isn’t the only new experience TCS has added, either. Travellers will also have the opportunity to visit the spice markets and white-sand beaches of Zanzibar, Tanzania, and take a deeper, end-to-end dive into Africa. Overnight stays will take place at luxury hotels and resorts by One&amp;Only, Belmond, Four Seasons, &amp;Beyond, Raffles, and other hospitality heavyweights.



As for the plane itself, TCS has created a custom Airbus A321 with a spacious cabin that offers leather flatbed seats for up to 52 guests, large lavatories, and full-length mirrors. The aircraft is manned by a crew of 18, including a dedicated chef and an onboard physician, meaning fliers will be taken care of from takeoff to landing.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/TCS_Seven_Continents_2.jpg-1024x576.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234801243" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/TCS_Seven_Continents_2.jpg-1024x576.webp 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/TCS_Seven_Continents_2.jpg-300x169.webp 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/TCS_Seven_Continents_2.jpg-768x432.webp 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/TCS_Seven_Continents_2.jpg.webp 1200w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Guests will be flown in a TCS-branded Airbus A321. Image courtesy of TCS World Travel</figcaption></figure>



The Seven Continents expedition costs US$205,000 (approximately HK$1.596 million) per person based on double occupancy. The itinerary is all-inclusive, with everything from private flights to ground transportation covered in the initial fee. Guests can also request optional suite upgrades.

TCS World Travel

Travel

This New Private Jet Expedition Lets You Explore All 7 Continents in 29 Days

It’s that splendid time of year again to embrace Mid-Autumn festivities in grand style. As the full moon ascends, casting a serene glow over the autumn night, the Mid-Autumn Festival invites families across Asia to gather in celebration, and this cherished occasion calls for indulgent feasts, heartfelt moments, and the warm embrace of tradition. In a remarkable fusion of culture and luxury, <a href="https://www.vistajet.com/en/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">VistaJet</a> unveils an extraordinary mooncake and mixology experience designed to elevate this festive period to new heights—quite literally.



From 22 September to 7 October, VistaJet Members may savour an exclusive selection of artisanal mooncakes, crafted in collaboration with the renowned Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group for selected departures in Hong Kong, Beijing, Shanghai, and Singapore City. Signature cocktails and mocktails that pay homage to the vibrant spirit of key Asian cities will be curated to pair with the range of delicacies. With each sip and bite, passengers embark on a sensory journey that transcends the ordinary, transforming their in-flight experience into an unforgettable celebration of heritage and craftsmanship.



“With sophisticated cocktails for toasting, playful mocktails for children’s enjoyment, and decadent mooncakes for all, we ensure every passenger partakes in the festive spirit,” says Crystal Wong,&nbsp;president,&nbsp;Asia-Pacific.&nbsp;



VistaJet’s emphasis on inclusivity fosters a sense of togetherness high above the clouds, and members departing from major hubs in Asia will enjoy an exquisite selection of mooncakes, each paired with a beverage that encapsulates the essence of its respective city. In Hong Kong, for instance, the Torii cocktail offers a distinctive twist on the classic Negroni, featuring sweet potato&nbsp;shochu&nbsp;and the delicate, fruity aromas of lychee to mirror the tranquil beauty of Hong Kong, where nature and urban life coexist harmoniously.



In Shanghai, the Memory cocktail pays tribute to the city’s rich heritage, blending osmanthus-infused gin with mellow yellow rice wine. Accented by vanilla syrup and a hint of lemon, this layered concoction evokes the elegant charm of autumn evenings along the Bund, transporting passengers to the heart of the vibrant culture of Shanghai.



In Beijing, the Palace Turret cocktail captures the golden silhouette of the Forbidden City’s iconic towers at dusk. A harmonious blend of jasmine, peach, gin, and Champagne allows passengers to savour a taste steeped in six centuries of history. For those preferring a non-alcoholic option, the Kirin mocktail reflects the sophistication of the auspicious Chinese beast, combining layers of pineapple, mango, coconut, and lemon for a refreshing delight.



In Singapore, the Reclaimed Sling reimagines the city’s iconic gin-based cocktail, incorporating pomegranate and herbal liqueur for a smooth, flavourful sip that showcases the region’s culinary prowess. The Gao Lak mocktail, named after beloved roasted chestnuts, pays homage to childhood nostalgia and Singapore’s vibrant hawker culture with its rich blend of black-bean vinegar, water chestnut syrup, and non-alcoholic malt.



Beyond the curated cocktails and mooncakes, VistaJet Members can explore a selection of fine wines through the exclusive Wine in the Sky programme, ensuring every sip complements the exquisite in-flight dining experience. With access to a global network of over 7,000 suppliers, private chefs, and Michelin-starred restaurants, VistaJet guarantees a meticulously crafted culinary journey from take-off to landing.



For those eager to deepen their appreciation of mixology, VistaJet offers an exclusive workshop at Mandarin Oriental, Hong Kong and&nbsp;Mandarin Oriental, Singapore. Guided by expert mixologists, families can engage in an interactive session to uncover closely guarded recipes and master the art of crafting signature cocktails and mocktails, creating lasting memories and instilling a sense of pride in the art of mixology as families unite in Mid-Autumn celebrations.



As the Mid-Autumn Festival approaches, VistaJet stands poised to deliver an unparalleled experience that transcends convention. With guaranteed access to a fleet of over 270 aircraft, VistaJet Members can embark on the ultimate journey to reunite with loved ones amid the luxurious amenities and services that define the brand. For those seeking the pinnacle of comfort, the Global 7500—with four distinct living spaces, including an entertainment room and a permanent stateroom—offers an extraordinary setting for a memorable celebration.&nbsp;



VistaJet not only elevates the experience of flying this Mid-Autumn Festival but redefines it, allowing passengers to savour the rich tapestry of Asian culture and tradition at 45,000 feet. As the moon illuminates the night sky, let VistaJet guide you on a luxurious adventure through the firmament, capturing the spirit of togetherness in every unforgettable moment.



All images courtesy of VistaJet.

Reach For the Skies This Mid-Autumn Festival With VistaJet’s Luxurious Mooncake & Mixology Adventure

<a href="https://robbreport.com/tag/archer/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Archer</a> Aviation’s flagship air taxi just passed another major milestone on the road to launch.



The <a href="https://robbreport.com/motors/aviation/archer-midnight-evtol-first-2024-certification-1234769778/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Midnight eVTOL</a> has completed its first piloted test flight, according to a <a href="https://news.archer.com/archer-showcases-piloted-midnight-flight-as-it-advances-to-next-phase-of-flight-test-program" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">statement</a> shared by the Silicon Valley firm on Monday. The <a href="https://robbreport.com/motors/aviation/archer-aviations-midnight-evtol-successful-transition-flight-1235654497/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">five-person craft</a> notched more than<a href="https://news.archer.com/archer-surpasses-400-test-flights-this-year-achieving-company-milestone-four-months-ahead-of-schedule" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"> 400 test flights</a> in 2024 alone, but this is the first time a pilot has been at the controls.



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With Archer’s chief test pilot, Jeff Greenwood, at the helm, Midnight cruised at speeds up to 125 mph and reached a maximum altitude of over 1,500 feet. The craft also completed a conventional take-off and landing (CTOL) rather than executing both vertically. Midnight already showcased a vertical takeoff and landing (VTOL) in the latter half of 2023.



“Flying Midnight felt just like flying the simulator—everything responded exactly as we trained for, which is exactly what you hope for during a test flight,” Greenwood said in a statement.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1200" height="675" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Archer_Midnight1.jpg.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234800118" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Archer_Midnight1.jpg.webp 1200w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Archer_Midnight1.jpg-300x169.webp 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Archer_Midnight1.jpg-1024x576.webp 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Archer_Midnight1.jpg-768x432.webp 768w" sizes="(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Archer pilot Jeff Greenwood inside Midnight. Image courtesy of Archer Aviation</figcaption></figure>



Archer says government regulators and customers have stressed the importance of being able to take off and land both conventionally and vertically in Midnight. Having an aircraft that is capable of both results in greater operational flexibility and also increases safety, according to Archer.



“Midnight’s VTOL and CTOL capabilities are a strong differentiator for us as they are critical for delivering an aircraft that can integrate into a wide range of operational scenarios while also providing enhanced safety,” added Archer CEO and founder Adam Goldstein.



Equipped with 12 wing-mounted tilting propellers and six battery packs, Midnight will be able to carry a pilot and four passengers at speeds of up to 150 mph. Weighing roughly 6,500 pounds, the aircraft will have a payload capacity of 1,000 pounds and can be charged in minutes.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Archer_Midnight2.jpg-1024x576.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234800116" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Archer_Midnight2.jpg-1024x576.webp 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Archer_Midnight2.jpg-300x169.webp 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Archer_Midnight2.jpg-768x432.webp 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Archer_Midnight2.jpg.webp 1200w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">The Midnight <a href="https://robbreport.com/tag/evtol/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">eVTOL</a>. Image courtesy of Archer Aviation</figcaption></figure>



During the next phase of testing, Archer will focus on things like the control responsiveness and stability of Midnight. The firm is also working to get the aircraft certified and into commercial service in both the US and the UAE. The plan is to eventually launch an <a href="https://robbreport.com/motors/aviation/archer-first-electric-air-taxi-network-new-york-1236478225/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">air-taxi network</a> in New York, providing fliers with the ability to zip from Manhattan to New York’s largest airports in five to 10 minutes for about US$200 (approximately HK$1,570). Rival eVTOL builder <a href="https://robbreport.com/motors/aviation/joby-toyota-investment1235893105-1235893105/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Joby Aviation</a> is also hoping to get its <a href="https://robbreport.com/motors/aviation/joby-demonstrates-its-quiet-electric-mini-chopper-for-the-first-time-1234599351/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">S4 electric aircraft</a> flying around the Big Apple. The timing of Archer’s stateside rollout is still, well, up in the air, but the team expects to start a commercial service in Dubai by the end of this year. Stay tuned.

Air Taxi

Archer Aviation

Electric Air Taxi

eVTOL

Midnight eVTOL

test flights

This 5-Person Electric Air Taxi Just Completed Its First Piloted Flight

The Paris Air Show had some interesting records broken this year, including the <a href="https://robbreport.com/motors/aviation/bombardier-global-7500-transatlantic-record-1236362828/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Bombardier Global 7500</a>’s record flight between Montreal and Paris at five hours, 30 minutes. Not to be outdone, competitor <a href="https://robbreport.com/tag/gulfstream/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Gulfstream</a>’s flagship <a href="https://robbreport.com/motors/aviation/gulfstream-business-jet-700th-speed-record-g700-1236507408/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">G700</a> made its own record run from San Francisco to Paris Le Bourget in nine hours and 26 minutes.



Otto Aviation also had a big announcement in the City of Light. If the brand can make its proposed new record stick, its Phantom 3500 business jet would achieve net-zero carbon emissions about two decades before the rest of the industry. The company plans for its super-midsized Phantom 3500 to enter service in 2030, about 20 years before private aviation has made a collective pledge to reach net-zero carbon emissions.



The clean-sheet Phantom still has some way to go. The futuristic-looking aircraft was highlighted at a press conference in Paris announcing a new manufacturing facility in Florida. Otto describes the Phantom as an “AI-supported clean sheet design, with transonic super-laminar flow architecture and cutting-edge aerodynamics.”



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1200" height="675" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/2.-Phantom-05.jpg.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234799422" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/2.-Phantom-05.jpg.webp 1200w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/2.-Phantom-05.jpg-300x169.webp 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/2.-Phantom-05.jpg-1024x576.webp 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/2.-Phantom-05.jpg-768x432.webp 768w" sizes="(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">The unusual shape of the fuselage and smaller wings reduces drag by 35 per cent compared to competitors’ designs.  Image courtesy of Otto Aviation</figcaption></figure>



The startup says the business jet will fulfill these descriptors by using a laminar-flow design that smooths airflow over its raked wings and fuselage, thereby reducing drag. The aircraft also does away with conventional windows and instead uses high-definition digital displays Otto calls “Super Natural Vision.” An introductory <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wlOK6mhzvs4" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">video</a> shows views of the sky overhead and landscape along the sides of the aircraft via the screens. The 3500 will be powered by two Williams FJ44 turbofan engines mounted at the rear of the fuselage.



Testing of a Phantom 3500 prototype is planned for 2027, with FAA certification and entry to market projected to happen about three years later. “By achieving carbon neutrality 20 years ahead of the 2050 target, we’re not just meeting expectations—Otto is redefining what’s possible in aviation,” said founder and CEO Paul Touw, who made the announcement about a new production facility that will open next year at the Cecil Airport in Jacksonville, Florida.



Florida governor Ron DeSantis, who was at Sunday’s press conference at the Paris Air Show, said that Otto will receive a nearly US$500 million (HK$3.92 billion) incentive package from state and local authorities to create its headquarters in Jacksonville. The facility will be on an 100-acre parcel with an 850,000-square-foot manufacturing plant. Touw said Otto intends to build up to 1,600 Phantom 3500s between 2030 and 2040.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/2.Interior-Otto.jpg-1024x576.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234799420" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/2.Interior-Otto.jpg-1024x576.webp 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/2.Interior-Otto.jpg-300x169.webp 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/2.Interior-Otto.jpg-768x432.webp 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/2.Interior-Otto.jpg.webp 1200w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">The Phantom’s interior uses video screens along the sides and ceiling instead of windows. Image courtesy of Otto Aviation</figcaption></figure>



The Phantom 3500 will burn 60 per cent less fuel than similar-sized jets. “The laminar flow design also allowed us to reduce the aircraft weight by half compared to competitors like the Citation 10 or Praetor 500,” Scott Drennan, Otto’s chief operating officer, told Robb Report. “The design’s efficiency means that all the components can be reduced. The engines and wings are smaller, and the fuselage is also much lighter.”



By burning sustainable aviation fuel, it will reduce emissions by 90 per cent, adds Drennan. The 3500 is a super-midsized business jet for space with nine passengers, with a cabin height of 6’5”, length of 23 feet and width of 7’6”. It will have a max cruise speed of 600-plus mph, cruise altitude of 51,000 feet, and maximum range of 3,500 nautical miles. Drennan says operating costs will be 50 per cent less than its competitors’ super-midsized business jets, thanks to the smaller Williams engine.



The Phantom 3500 follows Otto’s earlier <a href="https://robbreport.com/motors/aviation/otto-aviation-zeppelin-shaped-celera-500l-1234583229/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Celera 500L</a> prototype, which completed testing in 2019. “That was a great demonstrator aircraft that proved our laminar airflow was practical,” says Drennan, noting the Phantom’s preliminary test phases will conclude in October. A sub-scale design has gone through wind-tunnel testing at both low and high speeds. “The tests matched our predictions within five per cent,” he says. “The laminar-flow technology will cut drag by 35 per cent compared to other aircraft.” Most of its tier-1 suppliers for major components like engines, avionics, and landing gear are in place, he adds, so Jacksonville will be more of an assembly hub, rather than manufacturing every component from scratch.



“The Atlanta FAA office told us that they see ‘nothing new or novel’ about our aircraft, which stung for a few seconds,” says Drennan. “But it also meant a clear path to certification.”

Business jet

Otto Aviation

This Bonkers New Business Jet Is Aiming for Zero-Emissions Flight by 2030

Let’s set the scene. The host: Robb Report Hong Kong. Our partner: Edrington. The location: The Garden Suite at The Peninsula Hong Kong. The occasion: The grand unveiling of The Glenrothes 51, a rare and exceptional bottle so precious that only one (of five total in all of Hong Kong) was in the room, guarded by the sharpest of eagle eyes. 



Anyone with HK$363,000&nbsp;to spare for The 51 would join an elite club of just 100 worldwide, and be invited to fly down to Scotland, welcomed at the distillery, and learn about how this liquid gold is created in the finest casks for an unforgettable pour, swivel, sniff, and sip.



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It was an exceptional evening as&nbsp;Robb Report Hong Kong&nbsp;played host to just a handful of VIP guests and distinguished RR1 Hong Kong members as a remarkable whisky, which has been meticulously matured for more than half a century,&nbsp;made&nbsp;its first appearance in Hong Kong, following successful unveilings in San Francisco, New York, and London.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="684" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/RRHK-x-Glenrothes-51-Private-Dinner-3-1024x684.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234797211" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/RRHK-x-Glenrothes-51-Private-Dinner-3-1024x684.jpg 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/RRHK-x-Glenrothes-51-Private-Dinner-3-300x200.jpg 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/RRHK-x-Glenrothes-51-Private-Dinner-3-768x513.jpg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/RRHK-x-Glenrothes-51-Private-Dinner-3-1536x1025.jpg 1536w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/RRHK-x-Glenrothes-51-Private-Dinner-3-2048x1367.jpg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>



Upon arrival, attendees were greeted by the breathtaking panorama of Victoria Harbour and the newly launched Best of the Best 2025 annual magazine by&nbsp;Robb Report Hong Kong, setting the tone for a night steeped in sophistication. Our by-invitation-only guests assembled, each eagerly anticipating the celebration of this extraordinary release.



Tak Man, CEO and publisher of&nbsp;Robb Report Hong Kong, began the evening with a warm welcome. “It is an honour to have you all here tonight for a very special occasion: to unveil the&nbsp;Glenrothes&nbsp;51, a whisky that not only boasts an incredible 51 years of maturation but also introduces a world’s-first in whisky packaging design,” he remarked to the gathering. 



<figure class="wp-block-gallery has-nested-images columns-default is-cropped wp-block-gallery-2 is-layout-flex wp-block-gallery-is-layout-flex">
<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="684" data-id="1234797203" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/RRHK-x-Glenrothes-51-Private-Dinner-94-1024x684.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234797203" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/RRHK-x-Glenrothes-51-Private-Dinner-94-1024x684.jpg 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/RRHK-x-Glenrothes-51-Private-Dinner-94-300x200.jpg 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/RRHK-x-Glenrothes-51-Private-Dinner-94-768x513.jpg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/RRHK-x-Glenrothes-51-Private-Dinner-94-1536x1025.jpg 1536w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/RRHK-x-Glenrothes-51-Private-Dinner-94-2048x1367.jpg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">John Laurie.</figcaption></figure>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="682" data-id="1234797431" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/gl_rs-1024x682.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234797431" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/gl_rs-1024x682.jpg 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/gl_rs-300x200.jpg 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/gl_rs-768x512.jpg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/gl_rs-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/gl_rs-2048x1365.jpg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>



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While the highlight of the evening was, undoubtedly, the unveiling of The Glenrothes 51, the reveal of the highly anticipated whisky was preceded by a spirited (pun intended) talk and engaging fireside chat led by Tak Man, featuring three esteemed whisky connoisseurs: Kam Daswani of Dram Good Stuff, Benjamin Po of Edrington, and John Laurie, head of global partnerships and private client management at The Glenrothes, who had flown in from Scotland specifically for the event. Together, they delved into the nuances of whisky appreciation, sharing insights that resonated with the gathered aficionados.



Guests raised their glasses&nbsp;to toast the occasion, and the selection of welcome drinks curated for the evening featured a range of exquisite Glenrothes, including the 18-, 32-, and 42-year-old variants—each a testament to the artistry and dedication behind every bottle.&nbsp;



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<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="684" data-id="1234797207" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/RRHK-x-Glenrothes-51-Private-Dinner-107-1024x684.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234797207" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/RRHK-x-Glenrothes-51-Private-Dinner-107-1024x684.jpg 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/RRHK-x-Glenrothes-51-Private-Dinner-107-300x200.jpg 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/RRHK-x-Glenrothes-51-Private-Dinner-107-768x513.jpg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/RRHK-x-Glenrothes-51-Private-Dinner-107-1536x1025.jpg 1536w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/RRHK-x-Glenrothes-51-Private-Dinner-107-2048x1367.jpg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>



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<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="684" data-id="1234797209" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/RRHK-x-Glenrothes-51-Private-Dinner-46-1024x684.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234797209" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/RRHK-x-Glenrothes-51-Private-Dinner-46-1024x684.jpg 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/RRHK-x-Glenrothes-51-Private-Dinner-46-300x200.jpg 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/RRHK-x-Glenrothes-51-Private-Dinner-46-768x513.jpg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/RRHK-x-Glenrothes-51-Private-Dinner-46-1536x1025.jpg 1536w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/RRHK-x-Glenrothes-51-Private-Dinner-46-2048x1367.jpg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>
</figure>



In anticipation of the excellent pours, the fine folks at The Peninsula Hong Kong crafted a menu that complemented the notes of the fine whisky. Guests started the meal with appetiser options of either Boston lobster avocado roulade or Hokkaido scallops with cauliflower and seaweed beurre blanc. For the main course, a slow-roasted Wagyu beef striploin was a solid option, and for those preferring lighter fare, there was a crispy&nbsp;amadai&nbsp;fillet with razor clam and young leek ragout. Cooling off the evening with a palate cleanser, dessert naturally had to be a Dulcey whipped ganache with the piquant tastes of mango marmalade and ginger madeleines.



This special gathering&nbsp;was not merely about unveiling a whisky—it was an homage to the shared love of exquisite craftsmanship, heritage, the bonds forged over fine spirits, and the indomitable spirit of fine whisky-making. As guests departed, they carried with them memories of an exceptional evening and the spirit of The Glenrothes and its enduring legacy.&nbsp;&nbsp;



All images shot exclusively for Robb Report Hong Kong.

RR1 event

The Glenrothes

Robb Report Hong Kong and RR1 Hong Kong Members Celebrated the Grand Unveiling of The Glenrothes 51 in Hong Kong

By Jen Paolini and P.Ramakrishnan



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Living Well</h3>



Hong Kong continues to hold its position as one of the most prominent wealth hubs in the world, Knight Frank’s 2025 Wealth Report reveals, with one in every 176 individuals in the city estimated to hold a net worth of over US$10 million (HK$77.7 million). Among the affluent, luxury real estate remains a desirable asset; Knight Frank also reported that for Hong Kong real-estate transactions valued at more than US$10 million (HK$77.7 million), 132 luxury housing sales were recorded between Q2 2023 and Q1 2024, while 166 “super-prime” sales were achieved for 2024. Following the removal of property cooling measures, the primary and secondary residential market is set to experience a rebound. “Markets are at a turning point now following the slowdown in 2023,” says Victoria Allan, founder and director of real-estate agency Habitat Property. “People have been waiting to purchase, and now’s the time. Our clients are buying again for self-use; investors will soon follow.” Developers are also doubling down on attractive financing terms and incentive packages to encourage transactions and move stock. “In a year’s time, we’ll likely experience a shortage of supply, but right now, there are still choices available, especially for those looking for properties in Hong Kong with uncommon features that are not usually available on the market, like a home with a pool or a garden. Buyers can be more selective,” Allan shares. As wealth shifts from one generation to another, many still see investing in real estate as a major consideration. Knight Frank’s Next Generation Survey reveals that 29.8 per cent of respondents would choose to spend on property as a luxury asset, topping the list. But living large is no longer enough—homeowners also want to live well. 24 per cent of those surveyed place great significance on wellness and health, and that desire is seeping into their decision-making for choosing properties that reflect their personal values and way of life. “Buyers are really prioritising quality of life, so they want to have homes or developments that reflect that; they want air- and water-purification systems and access to the best fitness facilities,” says Georgina Atkinson, managing partner of real-estate advisory firm Origin Private Office. “Developers are having to respond to this by incorporating wellness-focused amenities into their projects from the outset, and there’s also a strong sense of encouraging community spaces for social interaction and relaxation. We still see [our next-generation clients] invest into traditional wealth-building assets such as stocks, bonds, and real estate, but they are really aligning their purchases with their personal values.” Brand loyalty is also a game-changing factor in the competitive landscape of branded residences. Consider the growing number of Mandarin Oriental Residences around the world, with a new Abu Dhabi development in the works. Four Seasons occupies a prominent place in this market, and a great number of Aman Residences will soon stud the globe. “Our clients from Asia especially gravitate towards brands because they trust a brand, and they know that particularly hospitality brands will deliver to a certain standard,” says Atkinson.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">VICTORIA PEAK </h3>



WHEELOCK PROPERTIES 1 Plantation Road



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="956" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/pro1-1024x956.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234796507" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/pro1-1024x956.jpg 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/pro1-300x280.jpg 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/pro1-768x717.jpg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/pro1-1536x1435.jpg 1536w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/pro1.jpg 1713w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>



Nestled within a stretch of verdant landscape with uninterrupted panoramic views of Hong Kong’s Victoria Peak, 1 Plantation Road stands as one of Wheelock Properties’ premier developments, featuring a bespoke collection of just 20 meticulously crafted residences. Each home is thoughtfully designed to cater to the unique preferences of its owners, boasting expansive gardens and interiors embellished with handpicked materials, thereby achieving a seamless balance between aesthetics, comfort, and functionality. Ricky Wong, managing director of Wheelock Properties, shares that “each home we build has its own identity. At 1 Plantation Road, no two houses are alike, as we recognise that discerning buyers seek unique residences reflecting their values: lifestyle, privacy, and harmony with their surroundings.” He emphasises sustainability as an important factor for the sophisticated clientele of today, citing it as the motivation behind the development’s use of advanced green building techniques, vertical vegetation, filtered water systems, and more. Even the private garages are crafted to evoke a sense of home. “When owners return, they are not welcomed by a cold, utilitarian concrete structure, but rather a warm, inviting space that embodies the essence of ‘home sweet home,’” Wong says. In every detail, 1 Plantation Road epitomises luxury living, intertwining modernity with ecological consciousness.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">QUEZON CITY </h3>



VICTOR CONSUNJI DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION M Residences Capitol Hills



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="858" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/pro2-1024x858.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234796508" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/pro2-1024x858.jpg 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/pro2-300x251.jpg 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/pro2-768x644.jpg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/pro2-1536x1287.jpg 1536w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/pro2.jpg 1909w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>



M Residences offers an exquisite collection of meticulously designed urban retreats, ensuring that every house seamlessly transforms into a cherished family home. Its Capitol Hills project, in Quezon City, perfectly embodies this ethos of fully customisable living. Some of the key elements that make M Residences stand out are the personalised interiors and different home styles offered to residents, alongside invaluable community amenities such as a recreational pool, clubhouse, function rooms, sunbeds, and shared lounge areas. At M Residences, the compact Aerin Corner townhouse provides functional elegance with its expansive open-plan living areas and soaring ceilings, making it the ideal sanctuary for newlyweds, downsizing empty nesters, or small families. Aerin’s flexible floor plan accommodates at least three bedrooms, with beautifully appointed spaces awaiting your personal touch—be it wider kitchen counters, tempered-glass stair railings, or an expanded rooftop room. Meanwhile, the multi-bedroom Elise features intelligently planned open spaces and functional amenities, with an adaptable layout for growing families. From spacious walk-in wardrobes to intimate gardens and sunlit balconies, every inch is maximised for privacy and comfort. Designed for larger families, with as many as seven bedrooms available, the Kiara residence boasts generous spaces ideal for living and entertaining, abundant storage, and striking floor-to-ceiling windows. Its flexible design accommodates evolving family needs, ensuring style and sophistication remain paramount. All townhouses are designed with a tropical touch, emphasising M Residences as a private urban oasis.



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



ANANDA DEVELOPMENT Porsche Design Tower Bangkok



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="697" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/pro4-1024x697.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234796509" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/pro4-1024x697.jpg 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/pro4-300x204.jpg 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/pro4-768x523.jpg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/pro4-1536x1046.jpg 1536w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/pro4-2048x1394.jpg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>



Porsche Design has joined forces with Ananda Development to introduce Asia’s first Porsche Design Tower in Bangkok, with an expected 2028 completion date. Following predecessors in Miami and Stuttgart, the project will be the third of its kind globally, with a prestigious address on the illustrious Sukhumvit thoroughfare. With the Porsche name attached to it, this state-of-the-art luxury residence is expected to feature cuttingedge design that answers the needs of its ultra-high-net-worth clients. 22 exclusive duplex and quadplex “sky villas,” priced between US$15 million and US$40 million (approximately HK$116.5 million and HK$310.9 million), are planned, and range in size from 525 to 1,135 square metres. It’s not just the space that will be impressive to investors looking for a Bangkok home—the facilities and technology imbued into the structure are remarkable as well. “Our vision is to create a living space where one’s passion thrives,” Stefan Büscher, chairman of the executive board of Porsche Lifestyle Group, shared in an official announcement, expressing his vision for the project. Merging exquisite aesthetics with optimal, modern functionality, the Porsche Design Tower Bangkok will feature integrated “Passion Spaces”—customisable luxury garages for residents to showcase their curated collection of wheels. Central to the architecture is the spiral “Loop” car ramp leading into the building, the exposed “X-Frame” pedestal structure serving as the entry experience, the “Crown” light signature at the top of the high-rise, as well as automated terrace systems blending indoor and outdoor living. Residents will also enjoy a plethora of luxurious shared spaces, including a 25-metre swimming pool, a spa, a business lounge, and a state-of-the-art fitness centre. Inside their own homes, tasteful furniture and materials enhance the opulent living experience.



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



ODIN PROPERTIES Odin Hills



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="852" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/pro3-1024x852.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234796510" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/pro3-1024x852.jpg 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/pro3-300x250.jpg 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/pro3-768x639.jpg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/pro3-1536x1278.jpg 1536w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/pro3.jpg 1923w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>



Located in the spectacular mountains of Niseko, Odin Hills epitomises the pinnacle of alpine luxury. It has achieved a remarkable degree of sales and success as a significant number of its residential plots have already been spoken for as we head to print—a testament to the strong market interest and the inherent appeal of this exceptional community. Aside from a collection of Japanese-European-inflected mountain-village developments—which owners can customise through their own appointed team, or construct following a set of design guidelines Odin Hills developed with award-winning architects such as Shigeru Ban—the community is further enhanced by a soon-to-come Clubhouse, serving as the heart of this prestigious enclave. Keiji Ashizawa’s “honest design” philosophy champions natural aesthetics for a seamless blend of functionality and beauty, offering residents a sanctuary of wellness and social amenities, including a spa, gym, pool, natural onsen, and thermal baths. Designs for the homes can feature multiple bedrooms with en-suite bathrooms, open-plan living spaces, an entertainment room, as well as a private outdoor deck. Odin Properties, a design-driven property brand, champions “intelligent luxury,” prioritising experiential quality over mere prestige. Founded in 2007 by Bjorn Fjelddahl, Chris Fjelddahl, and Nicolas Gontard, Odin has revolutionised the luxury real-estate market in Niseko.

Bangkok

Japan property

Niseko

Robb Report Hong Kong

Thailand property

The Best in Property 2025, From Victoria Peak and Bangkok to Niseko and Quezon City

An extraordinary evening awaits the most discerning palates on 22 October 2025. In partnership with the venerable whisky specialist <a href="https://www.gordonandmacphail.com/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Gordon &amp; Ma</a><a href="https://www.gordonandmacphail.com/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">cPhail</a>, Robb Report Hong Kong is hosting a by-invitation-only dinner for RR1 Hong Kong members and VIP guests to embark on a profound odyssey into the artistry of whisky maturation. 



<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
<iframe loading="lazy" title="Gordon &amp; MacPhail | The World&#039;s Oldest Single Malt Scotch Whisky" width="500" height="281" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/6KtkTxwqELk?feature=oembed" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen></iframe>
</div></figure>



Held at Island Shangri-La, Hong Kong’s Michelin-starred Restaurant Petrus, the special evening promises an exceptional encounter with the&nbsp;<a href="https://robbreport.hk/posts/oldest-scotch-whisky-gordon-macphail-glenlivet" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Gordon &amp; MacPhail 85 Years Old</a>—a masterpiece hailed as the oldest single malt Scotch whisky, a liquid testament to patience, heritage, and unparalleled craftsmanship. Gordon &amp; MacPhail stands as a titan in the realm of Scotch whisky, a brand whose legacy spans 130 years and commands reverence among connoisseurs worldwide. Founded in 1895 in the Speyside heartland of Elgin, Scotland, this independent bottler and distiller has elevated the art of whisky to sublime heights. What sets Gordon &amp; MacPhail apart is its unwavering commitment to maturation—casks are procured from distilleries across Scotland and diligently nurtured, allowing time to weave its magic far beyond the haste of commercial production. Its portfolio boasts some of the rarest expressions ever released, including vintages that whisper tales of bygone eras.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="683" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/1.-Jeanne-x-Decanter-@-Gordon-MacPhail-85-Years-Old-from-Glenlivet-Distillery_CREDIT-GORDON-MACPHAIL_RS-1024x683.jpeg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234801772" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/1.-Jeanne-x-Decanter-@-Gordon-MacPhail-85-Years-Old-from-Glenlivet-Distillery_CREDIT-GORDON-MACPHAIL_RS-1024x683.jpeg 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/1.-Jeanne-x-Decanter-@-Gordon-MacPhail-85-Years-Old-from-Glenlivet-Distillery_CREDIT-GORDON-MACPHAIL_RS-300x200.jpeg 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/1.-Jeanne-x-Decanter-@-Gordon-MacPhail-85-Years-Old-from-Glenlivet-Distillery_CREDIT-GORDON-MACPHAIL_RS-768x512.jpeg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/1.-Jeanne-x-Decanter-@-Gordon-MacPhail-85-Years-Old-from-Glenlivet-Distillery_CREDIT-GORDON-MACPHAIL_RS-1536x1024.jpeg 1536w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/1.-Jeanne-x-Decanter-@-Gordon-MacPhail-85-Years-Old-from-Glenlivet-Distillery_CREDIT-GORDON-MACPHAIL_RS-2048x1365.jpeg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Jeanne Gang with Decanter, Gordon &amp; MacPhail 85 Years Old from Glenlivet Distillery.</figcaption></figure>



Acclaimed for its expertise in cask selection and blending, Gordon &amp; MacPhail owns the Benromach distillery, where the brand revives traditional methods to produce whiskies of exceptional depth and character. It is this dedication to quality over quantity that has earned Gordon &amp; MacPhail a reputation as guardians of Scotch heritage, with releases often fetching astronomical sums at auction. In an industry dominated by giants, Gordon &amp; MacPhail proves that true greatness lies in the slow, deliberate embrace of nature’s rhythms.&nbsp;



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="683" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/1.-Jeanne-Gang-Sketching-@-Gordon-MacPhail-85-Years-Old-from-Glenlivet-Distillery_CREDIT-GORDON-MACPHAIL_RS-1024x683.jpeg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234801775" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/1.-Jeanne-Gang-Sketching-@-Gordon-MacPhail-85-Years-Old-from-Glenlivet-Distillery_CREDIT-GORDON-MACPHAIL_RS-1024x683.jpeg 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/1.-Jeanne-Gang-Sketching-@-Gordon-MacPhail-85-Years-Old-from-Glenlivet-Distillery_CREDIT-GORDON-MACPHAIL_RS-300x200.jpeg 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/1.-Jeanne-Gang-Sketching-@-Gordon-MacPhail-85-Years-Old-from-Glenlivet-Distillery_CREDIT-GORDON-MACPHAIL_RS-768x512.jpeg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/1.-Jeanne-Gang-Sketching-@-Gordon-MacPhail-85-Years-Old-from-Glenlivet-Distillery_CREDIT-GORDON-MACPHAIL_RS-1536x1024.jpeg 1536w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/1.-Jeanne-Gang-Sketching-@-Gordon-MacPhail-85-Years-Old-from-Glenlivet-Distillery_CREDIT-GORDON-MACPHAIL_RS-2048x1365.jpeg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Jeanne Gang sketching at Gordon &amp; MacPhail 85 Years Old from Glenlivet Distillery.</figcaption></figure>



Robb Report Hong Kong’s private dinner embodies that ethos, transforming a simple repast into a celebration of sensory indulgence. Under the guidance of Restaurant Petrus’s masterful chefs, a curated menu will harmonise with the evening’s liquid stars, each dish crafted to accentuate the nuanced profiles of the whiskies on offer. Guests will embark on a tasting journey beginning with Gordon &amp; MacPhail vintages. Drawn from casks that have slumbered for decades, these drams offer glimpses into whisky evolution—notes of rich oak, subtle spices, and ethereal fruits that dance on the tongue like forgotten memories revived.



Yet the true crescendo arrives with the unveiling of the Gordon &amp; MacPhail 85 Years Old. Distilled in 1940 at the Glenlivet and bottled in 2025 after an astonishing 85 years in a single cask, this whisky is a rarity without parallel. Only 125 decanters exist, each a bespoke creation born from a collaboration with the celebrated American architect and designer Jeanne Gang. Her visionary touch infuses the presentation with architectural poetry: crystal decanters that evoke the fluidity of time and the strength of nature, housed in cases that blend modern minimalism with organic forms. It’s an a homage to the inexorable forces that shape excellence—the whisper of wind through Highland glens, the patient seep of wood into liquid gold, and the human artistry that shepherds it to perfection.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="683" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/3.-Stephen-Rankin-@-Gordon-MacPhail-85-Years-Old-from-Glenlivet-Distillery_CREDIT-GORDON-MACPHAIL_RS-1024x683.jpeg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234801771" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/3.-Stephen-Rankin-@-Gordon-MacPhail-85-Years-Old-from-Glenlivet-Distillery_CREDIT-GORDON-MACPHAIL_RS-1024x683.jpeg 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/3.-Stephen-Rankin-@-Gordon-MacPhail-85-Years-Old-from-Glenlivet-Distillery_CREDIT-GORDON-MACPHAIL_RS-300x200.jpeg 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/3.-Stephen-Rankin-@-Gordon-MacPhail-85-Years-Old-from-Glenlivet-Distillery_CREDIT-GORDON-MACPHAIL_RS-768x512.jpeg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/3.-Stephen-Rankin-@-Gordon-MacPhail-85-Years-Old-from-Glenlivet-Distillery_CREDIT-GORDON-MACPHAIL_RS-1536x1025.jpeg 1536w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/3.-Stephen-Rankin-@-Gordon-MacPhail-85-Years-Old-from-Glenlivet-Distillery_CREDIT-GORDON-MACPHAIL_RS-2048x1366.jpeg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Stephen Rankin, Gordon &amp; MacPhail 85 Years Old from Glenlivet Distillery. </figcaption></figure>



For the fortunate invitees, this is an opportunity to partake in history and savour a dram that encapsulates nearly a century of quiet transformation. In a world of fleeting trends, such occasions remind us of the enduring value of heritage, where every sip is a bridge to the past and a toast to the future. It’s the perfect time to raise glasses to the artistry of Gordon &amp; MacPhail, celebrating a legacy that continues to redefine the boundaries of Scotch whisky. In this intimate setting, time stands still, allowing the essence of 85 years to unfold in a single, transcendent taste. Such evenings are the stuff of legends, reserved for those who seek not just indulgence, but enlightenment of the senses.



Learn more about the Gordon &amp; MacPhail dinner in Hong Kong&nbsp;<a href="https://www.rr1hongkong.com/gordon-macphail-dinner-2025" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">here</a>. 



All images courtesy of Gordon &amp; MacPhail.

Gordon & Macphail

Whiskey

whiskey dinner

Gordon & MacPhail Unveils World’s Oldest Whisky at an Exclusive Robb Report Hong Kong Dinner For RR1 Hong Kong Members

Our exclusive contacts at&nbsp;<a href="https://robbreport.hk/brands/sothebys/stories" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Sotheby’s</a>&nbsp;Maison hinted weeks ago at an undeniably surprising and curious exhibition at their elegant <a href="https://robbreport.hk/posts/sothebys-new-maison-landmark-chater-hong-kong" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Hong Kong address</a>. When the curtains parted, the collective gasp was audible. Sotheby’s has unveiled its latest exhibit, Eros/Thanatos—Gesamtkunstwerk II, running from 13 to 26 September.



A remarkable showcase offering an immersive exploration of the dualities of human experience,&nbsp;Eros/Thanatos&nbsp;delves into the intricate dance between desire (Eros) and death (Thanatos) through diverse artistic mediums. A sequel to the recent success of&nbsp;Corpus—Three Millennia of the Human Body, which captivated audiences, this exhibition positions Sotheby’s Maison as the talk of the town, an epicentre of cultural engagement in the region.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="683" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/6DNc2dhg_RS-1024x683.jpeg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234801518" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/6DNc2dhg_RS-1024x683.jpeg 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/6DNc2dhg_RS-300x200.jpeg 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/6DNc2dhg_RS-768x512.jpeg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/6DNc2dhg_RS-1536x1025.jpeg 1536w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/6DNc2dhg_RS-2048x1366.jpeg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>



Curated to ignite the imagination—some exhibits more provocative than others—Eros/Thanatos&nbsp;presents a meticulous selection of works spanning centuries and styles. Iconic artists such as Francis Bacon, Salvador Dalí, Jean-Michel Basquiat, and Jeff Koons are showcased alongside lesser-famed yet profoundly impactful figures.&nbsp;Eros/Thanatos&nbsp;invites visitors to journey through the depths of human emotion, illuminating themes of love, passion, transgression, and, ultimately, mortality. Here, art transcends mere aesthetic appreciation, becoming a vessel for profound reflection on life’s most complex questions as the pendulum swings high and wide, from the erogenous to the fatal.



<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=d4Op0ReS3tc" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nicolas Chow</a>, chairman of Sotheby’s Asia, articulates the ambition behind the exhibition: “Since opening our doors last year, our aim has been to stage exhibitions that ignite wonder and elevate the experience of all who visit.” His curatorial approach draws on the rich tapestry of mythology, psychoanalysis, and art history, suggesting that the exploration of Eros and Thanatos is not merely an artistic showpiece but a fundamental aspect of the human condition set to spotlight.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="683" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/ZXErXglg_RS-1024x683.jpeg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234801523" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/ZXErXglg_RS-1024x683.jpeg 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/ZXErXglg_RS-300x200.jpeg 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/ZXErXglg_RS-768x512.jpeg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/ZXErXglg_RS-1536x1025.jpeg 1536w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/ZXErXglg_RS-2048x1366.jpeg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>



The exhibition’s premise is masterfully underscored by an eclectic mix of artworks. From Bacon’s unsettling&nbsp;Version No. 2 of Lying Figure with Hypodermic Syringe&nbsp;to the ethereal beauty of Dalí’s&nbsp;Rose Meditative, each piece resonates with the tensions of existence, a mortal coil unravelled under the aegis of the famed auction house. Visitors will encounter not only celebrated modern and contemporary works but also Old Master paintings, ancient sculptures, and rare manuscripts, creating a Gesamtkunstwerk—an all-encompassing artistic experience. The juxtaposition of contemporary pieces with historical artefacts highlights the timelessness of these themes, a running thread inviting contemplation on how the human experience has evolved yet remains constant.



A standout work is Yoshitomo Nara’s&nbsp;Can’t Wait ‘til the Night Comes, featuring a mischievous girl with an ambiguous, vampiric smile. One of Nara’s largest and most significant works, this canvas reflects the artist’s nocturnal inspirations while embodying the playful yet dark themes of desire and fear. The exhibition also includes Zao Wou-ki’s&nbsp;12.02.2004—Vague rouge blanc bleu, a testament to the artist’s mastery of colour and form, created during a pivotal moment in his career.



The immersive experience is further enriched by a specially crafted soundtrack that complements the visual feast—a signature touch from Chow that we’ve come to appreciate. This auditory element transforms the exhibition space into a holistic environment, encouraging visitors to reflect deeply on the artworks. The resonance of music with visual art creates an emotional landscape that mirrors the complexities of Eros and Thanatos, amplifying the exhibition’s impact.



In addition to the main exhibition, Sotheby’s Maison is concurrently showcasing works from its upcoming Modern and Contemporary Art sales series, featuring luminaries such as Pablo Picasso and Roy Lichtenstein. These works will be on view from 22 to 28 September, just ahead of the highly anticipated Modern &amp; Contemporary Evening and Day Auctions on 28 and 29 September. This strategic overlap enriches the visitor experience and underscores Sotheby’s commitment to fostering a dynamic dialogue between past and present artistic expressions.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="684" height="1024" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/Butg42lw_RS-684x1024.jpeg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234801519" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/Butg42lw_RS-684x1024.jpeg 684w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/Butg42lw_RS-200x300.jpeg 200w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/Butg42lw_RS-768x1151.jpeg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/Butg42lw_RS-1025x1536.jpeg 1025w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/Butg42lw_RS.jpeg 1068w" sizes="(max-width: 684px) 100vw, 684px" /></figure>



Jasmine Prasetio, managing director of Southeast Asia and interim head of modern and contemporary art, remarks, “We invite everyone to experience art from a fresh perspective through the&nbsp;Eros/Thanatos&nbsp;exhibition.” Her words highlight the significance of the dialogues created through the juxtaposition of diverse works.



An open invitation to engage with the elemental questions that define our existence—a mélange of desire, death, and dreams spliced together—this season, Sotheby’s Maison beckons one and all to explore the sublime contradictions of love, life, and mortality, reminding us that art, at its finest, is a mirror reflecting the myriad facets of our shared humanity.&nbsp;



For more information, log on to&nbsp;<a href="https://www.sothebys.com/en/digital-catalogues/eros-thanatos" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">sothebys.com/en/digital-catalogues/eros-thanatos</a>.



All images courtesy of Sotheby’s Hong Kong.

Auction

HK exhibit

Hong Kong

Sotheby's

Sotheby's Asia

Sotheby's Hong Kong

Death and Desire Converge at Sotheby’s Maison’s ‘Eros/Thanatos’ Exhibition

Over the past few weeks, whisky collectors, connoisseurs, and the curious have been part of a fine whisky experience, launched on a luxury yacht in Monaco, at an all-villa resort in Singapore, and at one of the swishest clubs in Hong Kong (where we at&nbsp;Robb Report Hong Kong&nbsp;were the only press invited to the event). How could we possibly say no?



Particularly to the familiar charms of James Mackay—no stranger to Hong Kong—who may have left our post-typhoon-Wipha-whipped shores years ago for the bucolic adventures of village life in Edinburgh, but the city’s gritty fibres remain in his arteries.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large is-resized"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="683" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/James-Mackay-Private-Client-Director-of-Artisan-Spirits-Company-at-the-global-launch-of-Artisan-Casks-in-Monaco-1024x683.jpeg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234800422" style="width:840px;height:auto" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/James-Mackay-Private-Client-Director-of-Artisan-Spirits-Company-at-the-global-launch-of-Artisan-Casks-in-Monaco-1024x683.jpeg 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/James-Mackay-Private-Client-Director-of-Artisan-Spirits-Company-at-the-global-launch-of-Artisan-Casks-in-Monaco-300x200.jpeg 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/James-Mackay-Private-Client-Director-of-Artisan-Spirits-Company-at-the-global-launch-of-Artisan-Casks-in-Monaco-768x512.jpeg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/James-Mackay-Private-Client-Director-of-Artisan-Spirits-Company-at-the-global-launch-of-Artisan-Casks-in-Monaco-1536x1024.jpeg 1536w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/James-Mackay-Private-Client-Director-of-Artisan-Spirits-Company-at-the-global-launch-of-Artisan-Casks-in-Monaco-2048x1365.jpeg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">James Mackay.</figcaption></figure>



Mackay, a rare whisky and fine spirits specialist with three decades of independent consultancy and positions with industry leaders, is an easily recognised and award-winning figure. He once had a popular drinks column in Hong Kong when he was a resident. His in-depth features read like a friend explaining the glories of vine, wine, wood, and cask as he took more than a passing interest in the exquisite drinks that arrived in the city. He left some time ago but stayed in the news: In 2022, he was made a Keeper of the Quaich, a lifetime honour recognising outstanding contributions to the Scotch whisky industry, and in 2023, he became a Liveryman of the Worshipful Company of Distillers.



But Hong Kong is like a habit he can’t break, so he returns with a bag of tricks and trinkets—or rather, what looks like a trunk fully furnished with armour, but within its protective, sponge-cast interior lies the rarest liquids of amber and gold. He wheels into view and unloads three of the finest whiskies known to cask and country. We sampled Macallan 1993 Artisan Cask, Bowmore 2004 Artisan Cask, and “Ancient Alba” 1972 Artisan Cask while Mackay expounded the raison d’être of Artisan Casks and how it all came to be.



<a href="https://artisanal-spirits.com/artisan-casks" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Artisan Casks</a> was launched by the <a href="https://artisanal-spirits.com/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Artisanal Spirits Company</a>, and it’s an exquisite new private cask programme that offers discerning individuals the opportunity to acquire a selection of exceptional, aged Scotch whisky casks, each with a story as rich as the liquid it holds. It is not about owning one bottle, but an entire fleet, and this initiative is not merely a purchasing opportunity—it is an invitation to immerse oneself in the intricate artistry and heritage of whisky, joining an elite club of like-minded individuals who prize exclusivity, experience, and erudition—well, not exactly in that order—and in having their name and indeed legacy imprinted for posterity, one bottle at a time. Apart from the art of procuring, there’s the F-word that doesn’t often percolate in the refined circles of connoisseurship: fun.



Owning these casks is, quite frankly, for ultra-high-net-worth individuals, the one percent who are looking for something beyond a rare bottle at auction. Artisan Casks epitomises the artisanal spirit of whisky production, allowing connoisseurs to appreciate the meticulous craftsmanship that defines this revered spirit. Each cask, aged a minimum of 20 years, is primed for immediate bottling but also offers the potential for further maturation, tailored to individual preferences in consultation with the company’s expert whisky-makers.



Each year, only a limited number of casks will be made available, with this inaugural selection featuring illustrious names such as Laphroaig, The Macallan, Mortlach, and Bowmore. Prices for these exquisite offerings range from £50,000 (approximately HK$530,615) to £600,000 (HK$6.36 million), reflecting the cask’s age, provenance, and size, ensuring that each acquisition is as unique as the whisky it contains.



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As mentioned, the programme was unveiled to a select audience at the Presidential Villa at Raffles on Sentosa in Singapore, marking the Asia launch after a spectacular debut aboard the 125-year-old classic sailing yacht,&nbsp;The Black Swan, in Monaco. For good measure, we had the exclusive first look under the aegis of Club Bâtard. Further events are slated for New York and Dubai, indicating global interest in this remarkable initiative.



At the helm of this innovative programme, Mackay, the newly appointed private client director for the Artisanal Spirits Company, brings a wealth of experience, having previously served as global private client director and head of rare &amp; exceptional spirits for Diageo. His expertise is instrumental in guiding clients through the unique journey of cask ownership without delving into the tedious notions of numbers, return-on-investment figures, pie charts, or graphs to indicate the fiscal state of the owner’s prized portfolio. What can be discussed is quality and rarity—value, not cost. “[Artisan Casks] unites the core elements that make single malt Scotch whisky extraordinary: authentic craftsmanship, technical artistry, and unwavering attention to detail,” he says, articulating the essence of Artisan Casks. “Owning a cask is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity that I am eager to share with fellow enthusiasts.”



The Artisanal Spirits Company prides itself on the individuality of each cask, underscoring a commitment to superior cask management and an artisanal vision. Its dedication to nurturing each cask ensures that it reaches the zenith of its potential, with regular assessments and meticulous attention to the interplay between spirit and wood. Whisky-makers meticulously select and pair each spirit with the appropriate wood, regularly monitoring its maturation to maintain a harmonious balance, often sourcing casks from the finest cooperages and sherry bodegas, ensuring that no expense is spared in the pursuit of excellence.



Cask owners will be welcomed into an elite circle, sharing an appreciation for the finest craftsmanship and lavish experiences. Collaborations with the company’s esteemed partners will allow them privileged access to some of the most celebrated distilleries in Scotland, exclusive bottlings, and invitations to private events, all designed to deepen their connection to whisky culture. Over the past four decades, the Artisanal Spirits Company has sourced an exceptional assortment of casks from more than 100 renowned single malt Scotch whisky distilleries, curating and selling limited-edition whiskies that celebrate craftsmanship and heritage. Housed in a state-of-the-art facility in Scotland, each cask is matured with the singular aim of achieving peak quality at bottling and the bespoke approach to cask care necessitates an unparalleled level of craftsmanship and precision.



Among the Artisan Casks being showcased are: • The Macallan 1993 Artisan Cask No. #305118 • Bowmore 2004 Artisan Cask No. #161217 • Laphroaig 1998 Artisan Cask No. #151785 • Caol Ila 1992 Artisan Cask No. #180965 • Highland Park 2005 Artisan Cask No. #160821 • Mortlach 1991 Artisan Cask No. #304589 • Bunnahabhain 2004 Artisan Cask No. #903350 • Glen Grant 1994 Artisan Cask No. #305100



In addition to its cask programme, the Artisanal Spirits Company owns the Scotch Malt Whisky Society (SMWS), further enhancing its capability to provide some of the world’s finest whisky experiences through its beautifully appointed clubhouses in Edinburgh, Glasgow, and London. Artisan Casks is an entry into the world of whisky craftsmanship, inviting aficionados to partake in an extraordinary journey of flavour, artistry, and heritage.



For more information, visit <a href="https://artisanal-spirits.com/artisan-casks" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">artisanal-spirits.com</a>.



All images courtesy of Artisan Casks.

Artisan Casks

Whisky

Artisan Casks Presents a Curated, Exclusive, and Exquisite New Era in Luxury Whisky Ownership

In the world of whisky, where tradition reigns supreme, a new independent bottler has emerged to challenge the status quo: Expedition Whisky.&nbsp;



Founded in 2023 by father-and-son duo Garth and Dave Dooley, this pioneering brand arrives with a fresh perspective, inviting connoisseurs and newcomers to embark on a journey of whisky exploration, storytelling, and the joy of discovery.



Expedition Whisky’s inaugural release, the Macallan Aged 33 Years, distilled in 1990 and matured in a PX Sherry Hogshead cask, is a remarkable introduction to this adventurous spirit. Bottled at 47.7 percent ABV, only 249 bottles will be available worldwide, making this expression not just a drink, but a rare piece of liquid history.&nbsp;



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="683" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/ExpeditionWhisky-2-1024x683.jpeg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234800774" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/ExpeditionWhisky-2-1024x683.jpeg 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/ExpeditionWhisky-2-300x200.jpeg 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/ExpeditionWhisky-2-768x512.jpeg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/ExpeditionWhisky-2-1536x1024.jpeg 1536w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/ExpeditionWhisky-2-2048x1365.jpeg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>



The Macallan Aged 33 Years is more than just whisky; it embodies rarity and heritage, setting the stage for what Expedition Whisky aims to achieve. “When setting up Expedition Whisky, we wanted it to be an independent bottler that explores Scotland in search of exceptional spirits,” says Dave Dooley. Its Macallan release serves as a tangible symbol of the brand’s commitment to unearthing hidden gems and crafting stories that resonate with every sip.&nbsp;



Expedition Whisky’s portfolio is thoughtfully divided into three distinct collections: Pinnacle, Chronicles, and Meridian. Pinnacle represents the apex of the brand, featuring rare and highly coveted releases like the Macallan Aged 33 Years, catering to the discerning drinker who appreciates not just the spirit, but the rich tapestry of its story. Chronicles encompasses premium, hand-selected expressions that celebrate adventure and storytelling, evoking a sense of timeless exploration. Each bottle tells a tale, inviting drinkers to savour the whisky and the experiences it represents. Meridian serves as a welcoming entry point for those new to whisky. Named after the prime meridian, this collection invites Spirits enthusiasts to step into the world of Expedition Whisky and embark on their own adventure of discovery.&nbsp;



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="683" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/ExpeditionWhisky-3-1024x683.jpeg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234800775" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/ExpeditionWhisky-3-1024x683.jpeg 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/ExpeditionWhisky-3-300x200.jpeg 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/ExpeditionWhisky-3-768x512.jpeg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/ExpeditionWhisky-3-1536x1024.jpeg 1536w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/ExpeditionWhisky-3-2048x1365.jpeg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>



Bringing depth and expertise to this vision is commercial director Bonnar Fulton, a seasoned figure in the world of whisky with a career spanning some of the industry’s most respected names, including Chivas Brothers and Johnnie Walker. His work across a broad spectrum of the industry, from cask sales to brand development, brings a sharp, intuitive edge to Expedition Whisky’s approach. His passion lies in unearthing rare and remarkable single malts, selecting each cask for its character, provenance, and potential. With an expert eye and a profound respect for tradition, Fulton is helping guide Expedition Whisky into its most exciting chapter yet—ensuring that each bottle is not only exceptional in taste but meaningful in story.&nbsp;



Expedition Whisky’s product design further enhances this narrative of exploration. The Macallan Aged 33 Years is housed in a bespoke illuminated display case that highlights its Speyside origins. Each hand-blown crystal decanter features a compass-inspired stopper. This attention to detail reflects the brand’s commitment to artistry and craftsmanship, ensuring that each release is not just a drinking experience but a celebration of the journey behind it. &nbsp;



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="683" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/ExpeditionWhisky-4-1024x683.jpeg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234800776" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/ExpeditionWhisky-4-1024x683.jpeg 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/ExpeditionWhisky-4-300x200.jpeg 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/ExpeditionWhisky-4-768x512.jpeg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/ExpeditionWhisky-4-1536x1024.jpeg 1536w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/ExpeditionWhisky-4-2048x1365.jpeg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>



As Garth Dooley explains, “We chose The Macallan 1990 as our inaugural release because it symbolises more than just a spirit—it’s a masterpiece, an opening chapter.” It is this ethos that resonates strongly throughout the Expedition Whisky brand, reinforcing the idea that whisky should be an invitation to explore, discover, and connect.&nbsp;



Expedition Whisky seeks to shift the perception of whisky from a traditional spirit to a canvas for exploration. In an age where the whisky landscape is evolving, the Dooley duo brings a refreshing lens to this age-old craft, inviting drinkers to think beyond the bottle and to embrace the stories and experiences that each whisky embodies.&nbsp;



Dave Dooley’s personal journey into whisky began with a fascination sparked by his father’s love for the spirit, and this passion has now blossomed into a mission to create a whisky brand that resonates with the curious and discerning drinker. “Each release, bottled at peak maturation, tells a unique story of character, place, and time,” he says.&nbsp;



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="683" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/ExpeditionWhisky-5-1024x683.jpeg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234800777" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/ExpeditionWhisky-5-1024x683.jpeg 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/ExpeditionWhisky-5-300x200.jpeg 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/ExpeditionWhisky-5-768x512.jpeg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/ExpeditionWhisky-5-1536x1024.jpeg 1536w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/ExpeditionWhisky-5-2048x1365.jpeg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>



As Expedition Whisky prepares to launch its inaugural bottling, the brand invites readers to register their interest on their website. It is not just about securing a rare bottle—it’s about joining a community of explorers eager to delve into the world of exceptional whisky. With future releases already in the pipeline, including a 30-year-old Springbank within the Pinnacle collection, Expedition Whisky promises to keep whisky enthusiasts engaged and intrigued. The Macallan Aged 33 Years is a statement piece that marks the beginning of something special, and for those who appreciate the finer things in life, this inaugural release offers a unique opportunity to own a piece of whisky history. 



As the whisky landscape continues to evolve, Expedition Whisky stands at the forefront, merging heritage with modern exploration. Whether you are a seasoned connoisseur or a curious newcomer, this brand invites you to rethink how independent bottlers curate and share whisky.&nbsp;



If you’re ready to begin your own journey of whisky discovery, visit <a href="https://expeditionwhisky.com/products/acquire" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">expeditionwhisky.com</a> to register your interest for the inaugural release, and exclusive updates on those to follow. Join Expedition Whisky as they chart a course through the rich and varied landscape of whisky, where every bottle is an invitation to explore and savour the stories that lie within.&nbsp;



All images courtesy of Expedition Whisky.

Dave Dooley

expedition

Expedition Whisky

Garth Dooley

Macallan

Expedition Whisky Presents a Bold New Chapter in Whisky Exploration 

It’s been a huge year for <a href="https://robbreport.hk/brands/aman/stories" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Aman</a>, with new <a href="https://robbreport.hk/posts/aman-rosa-alpina-hotel-italian-dolomites-opening" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">openings</a> and <a href="https://www.aman.com/new-developments" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">announcements</a> galore to keep the travel schedules of its devoted “Aman Junkies” busy, but the hotel group is far from done, especially when it comes to expanding across Southeast Asia—the birthplace of the brand.



In a move that brings the hotel group to even more urban centres of the world, Singapore will soon receive a lion’s share of “Aman magic” with the opening of <a href="https://www.aman.com/resorts/aman-singapore" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Aman Singapore</a>. Comprising a hotel, branded residences, and a global private members’ club—a concept first introduced at the New York property in 2022—Aman Singapore will reside within the forthcoming Skywaters skyscraper in the Central Business District, soon to be the tallest building in Singapore. 



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="683" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Aman-Residences-Singapore-Living-Area-1024x683.jpeg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234801710" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Aman-Residences-Singapore-Living-Area-1024x683.jpeg 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Aman-Residences-Singapore-Living-Area-300x200.jpeg 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Aman-Residences-Singapore-Living-Area-768x512.jpeg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Aman-Residences-Singapore-Living-Area-1536x1024.jpeg 1536w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Aman-Residences-Singapore-Living-Area-2048x1365.jpeg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Living area of Aman Residences, Singapore.</figcaption></figure>



Aman Singapore will join Aman’s growing portfolio of cosmopolitan properties, closely followed by launches in global cities such as Dubai, Miami, and Beverly Hills—a dramatic shift from the remote, nature-driven resorts that have long been considered the hallmarks of the brand. With Aman Singapore, the hotel group continues to test the theory that its blueprint for elevated, personalised hospitality can flourish anywhere.



Kerry Hill Architects—no stranger to the aesthetic of the Aman brand, having been involved in the planning and design of numerous properties in the past, present, and foreseeable future—has been tapped to bring Aman’s instantly recognisable, effortlessly elegant, and tastefully minimalist interior design philosophy to the Singapore outpost. 



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="683" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Aman-Singapore-Spa-House-Pool-1024x683.jpeg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234801709" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Aman-Singapore-Spa-House-Pool-1024x683.jpeg 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Aman-Singapore-Spa-House-Pool-300x200.jpeg 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Aman-Singapore-Spa-House-Pool-768x512.jpeg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Aman-Singapore-Spa-House-Pool-1536x1024.jpeg 1536w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Aman-Singapore-Spa-House-Pool-2048x1365.jpeg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Aman Spa House pool.</figcaption></figure>



Drawing inspiration from Singapore’s colonial black-and-white bungalows, the design language will highlight natural materials, textural nuances, and local island influences. Besides an Aman Club and a limited number of Aman Residences, the space will be home to spacious hotel suites, multiple signature dining concepts, and an expansive Aman Spa, featuring what will no doubt become Singapore’s most Instagrammed and sought-after infinity pool.



At this time, Aman is keeping mum on the official opening date for Aman Singapore. Bearing in mind that the 63-storey Skywaters is pencilled in for a 2028 completion date, we imagine the launch of Aman’s debut offering in the Lion City will not trail far behind.



All images courtesy of Aman.

Aman

Aman Singapore

Branded Residences

hotel

Kerry Hill Architects

Singapore

Aman Is Opening a New Hotel in Singapore’s Soon-to-Be Tallest Skyscraper

For the ultimate drive—no, not a nod to a supercar—head to Macao, where all eyes will turn to the stunning Macau Golf &amp; Country Club from 16 to 19 October for the highly anticipated SJM Macao Open 2025. Boasting a prize purse of a cool HK$7.78 million, this prestigious tournament is one of the most eagerly awaited sporting events of the year, promising not only enthralling action on the greens but also a vibrant showcase of Macao’s rich history and culture. Headlined by golfing luminaries such as the legendary Lee Westwood and South Korean star Sungjae Im, the event has once again assembled a stellar field of competitors from across the globe.



Since its inception in 1998, the Macao Open has become a cornerstone of the Asian Tour, and 2025 marks its 22nd edition. With SJM Resorts as the title sponsor for the third consecutive year, the recently announced two-year sponsorship extension underscores a steadfast commitment to elevating golf in Macao.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="683" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/Taichi-community-event_RS-1024x683.jpeg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234801533" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/Taichi-community-event_RS-1024x683.jpeg 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/Taichi-community-event_RS-300x200.jpeg 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/Taichi-community-event_RS-768x512.jpeg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/Taichi-community-event_RS-1536x1024.jpeg 1536w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/Taichi-community-event_RS-2048x1365.jpeg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>



Set against the breathtaking backdrop of the Macau Golf &amp; Country Club, the tournament showcases a course renowned for its challenging layout and spectacular views of the South China Sea, framed by lush greenery and serene waters. This iconic venue, a centrepiece of Macao’s sporting legacy, embodies the city’s unique East-meets-West culture, blending timeless heritage with modern vibrancy. Beyond the competition, players and fans can immerse themselves in Macao’s rich history, vibrant cultural tapestry, and unparalleled offerings, making this event a truly “Uniquely Macao” experience.



Former world number one Westwood’s ties to the Macao Open date back to his victory in 1999. His return is eagerly anticipated, and his insights add a layer of excitement. “I have fond memories of my win here 26 years ago,” Westwood has remarked, hinting at his aspirations for another title. Im, a two-time PGA Tour winner making his Macao debut, is equally enthusiastic, expressing excitement about the competitive field.



Other notable participants include defending champion Rattanon Wannasrichan, Li Haotong, Taichi Kho, and golfing legends Zhang Lianwei and Liang Wenchong. Homegrown star Kelvin Si adds a local flavour to the line-up as he continues to make his mark on the international stage.



Jointly organised by the Sports Bureau of the Macao SAR Government (MSB), title sponsor SJM Resorts, S.A. (SJM), and IMG, the SJM Macao Open is committed to accessibility and community engagement. For the 2025 edition, the organisers will bring the sport to Macao through an initiative designed to inspire the next generation of golfers, sharing the joy and positive values of golf with people from all walks of life to ensure the sport flourishes in the region. All those interested can join a the SJM Macao Open Community Golf Fun Day at Ponte 16 on Sunday, 12 October, featuring golf-themed games led by tournament players. Guests can register for complimentary tickets through the official website, with a maximum allocation of four tickets per person, allowing families and friends to share in the excitement of world-class golf.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/KV_SJM_Macao_Open_2025_Horizontal_RV-2_RS22222-1024x576.jpeg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234801638" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/KV_SJM_Macao_Open_2025_Horizontal_RV-2_RS22222-1024x576.jpeg 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/KV_SJM_Macao_Open_2025_Horizontal_RV-2_RS22222-300x169.jpeg 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/KV_SJM_Macao_Open_2025_Horizontal_RV-2_RS22222-768x432.jpeg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/KV_SJM_Macao_Open_2025_Horizontal_RV-2_RS22222-1536x864.jpeg 1536w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/KV_SJM_Macao_Open_2025_Horizontal_RV-2_RS22222-2048x1152.jpeg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>



As Macao solidifies its reputation as one of Asia’s premier events capitals, the SJM Macao Open 2025 stands as a testament to the city’s ability to host major international sporting events while showcasing its unique offerings. With thrilling golf, exceptional hospitality, a star-studded line-up, a stunning venue, and cultural richness, the tournament promises to be an unforgettable experience for all attendees. Whether you’re a golf aficionado or a curious newcomer, this tournament is an unmissable celebration of sport, culture, and camaraderie. Prepare for four spectacular days of golf that will leave a lasting impression.



For more information and to register for complimentary tickets, visit <a href="http://sjmmacaoopen.com/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">sjmmacaoopen.com</a>.

Golf

Li Haotong

Liang Wenchong

SJM Macao

SJM Macao Open

Taichi Kho

Zhang lianwei

SJM Macao Open 2025 Promises to Be One of the Year’s Most Exciting Golf Events

“I’m a fan.” It’s that memorable tagline—manna from the advertising gods—from the iconic <a href="https://robbreport.hk/brands/mandarin-oriental/stories" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Mandarin Oriental</a> campaign, fronted by a rotating cast of notable celebrities over the years. In the realm of luxury hospitality, however, it’s not the names of actors, athletes, and singers that shine on the marquee. Stars may come and go, but Mandarin Oriental endures.



<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
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With its rich legacy and unwavering commitment to exceptional service, the brand epitomises elegance and sophistication, infused with an unmistakable Asian stamp. At the helm of this storied hotel group is Laurent Kleitman, the soft-spoken and erudite group chief executive who embodies the <a href="https://www.mandarinoriental.com/en" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Mandarin Oriental</a> essence as he guides it into its next chapter. In a candid conversation, Kleitman reflects on how his diverse experiences have shaped his approach to luxury and his vision for the future of the brand.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="683" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Laurent-Kleitman-RRHK5_RS-1024x683.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234801806" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Laurent-Kleitman-RRHK5_RS-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Laurent-Kleitman-RRHK5_RS-300x200.jpg 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Laurent-Kleitman-RRHK5_RS-768x512.jpg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Laurent-Kleitman-RRHK5_RS-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Laurent-Kleitman-RRHK5_RS-2048x1365.jpg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>



Kleitman’s journey in hospitality is as compelling as the brand he leads. His extensive background has endowed him with a nuanced understanding of what discerning guests expect from their luxury experiences. With a career marked by transformative leadership at some of the most prestigious companies in the world, Kleitman’s tenure at industry giants such as Unilever, Coty, and LVMH has seen him orchestrate the strategic evolution and global expansion of iconic brands across continents.&nbsp;



Over a cup of tea in the Presidential Suite of the Mandarin Oriental, Hong Kong, Kleitman’s perspective is as enchanting as the panorama. From the bustling metropolises of New York, London, and Paris to the dynamic hubs of Milan, Moscow, and Bangkok, his global outlook has been honed through immersive experiences in diverse markets. Most recently, as president and chief executive of Parfums Christian Dior, he oversaw a masterful transformation, achieving remarkable growth in fragrance, make-up, skincare, and spa categories. His ability to blend visionary strategy with meticulous execution has cemented his reputation as a luminary in luxury, setting the stage for his leadership at Mandarin Oriental. Whether it’s designer labels or exquisitely designed interiors, the essence of refined luxury remains the same.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="683" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Mandarin-Oriental-Hong-Kong-Lobby-Lounge_RS-1024x683.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234801863" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Mandarin-Oriental-Hong-Kong-Lobby-Lounge_RS-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Mandarin-Oriental-Hong-Kong-Lobby-Lounge_RS-300x200.jpg 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Mandarin-Oriental-Hong-Kong-Lobby-Lounge_RS-768x512.jpg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Mandarin-Oriental-Hong-Kong-Lobby-Lounge_RS-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Mandarin-Oriental-Hong-Kong-Lobby-Lounge_RS-2048x1365.jpg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Mandarin Oriental, Hong Kong Lobby Lounge</figcaption></figure>



“Luxury customers are incredibly discerning and they seek meaningful, authentic experiences,” he says, and this insight drives his mission to create memories that transcend traditional hospitality. For Kleitman, it’s not merely about a stay in a lavish hotel—it’s about curating experiences that linger with guests long after their departure.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="683" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Mandarin-Oriental-Bangkok-Chao-Phraya-Suite-in-the-Garden-Wing_RS-1024x683.jpeg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234801861" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Mandarin-Oriental-Bangkok-Chao-Phraya-Suite-in-the-Garden-Wing_RS-1024x683.jpeg 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Mandarin-Oriental-Bangkok-Chao-Phraya-Suite-in-the-Garden-Wing_RS-300x200.jpeg 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Mandarin-Oriental-Bangkok-Chao-Phraya-Suite-in-the-Garden-Wing_RS-768x512.jpeg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Mandarin-Oriental-Bangkok-Chao-Phraya-Suite-in-the-Garden-Wing_RS-1536x1024.jpeg 1536w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Mandarin-Oriental-Bangkok-Chao-Phraya-Suite-in-the-Garden-Wing_RS-2048x1365.jpeg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Mandarin Oriental, Bangkok Chao Phraya Suite in the Garden Wing</figcaption></figure>



Mandarin Oriental bears a storied history, a tapestry woven from its past. Kleitman observes that “the Bangkok hotel will celebrate its 150th anniversary next year, while Mandarin Oriental, Hong Kong approaches 65 years of unparalleled service.” Heritage enriches the brand, blending historical charm with modern vibrancy, setting the stage for future growth.



Kleitman deeply appreciates the distinct character of each location. “In London, you experience British elegance; in Munich, German efficiency,” he explains. Sensitivity to locale allows Mandarin Oriental to maintain its “graceful Asian style” while honouring the cultural nuances of each destination. It’s a delicate balance, but one Kleitman deems essential to delivering the quintessential Mandarin Oriental experience, no matter where its doors open.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="683" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Laurent-Kleitman-RRHK8_RS-1024x683.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234801811" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Laurent-Kleitman-RRHK8_RS-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Laurent-Kleitman-RRHK8_RS-300x200.jpg 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Laurent-Kleitman-RRHK8_RS-768x512.jpg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Laurent-Kleitman-RRHK8_RS-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Laurent-Kleitman-RRHK8_RS-2048x1365.jpg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>



As the hospitality landscape evolves, personalisation has become paramount. With travel patterns shifting towards multi-generational family trips, Kleitman has tailored Mandarin Oriental to meet these demands. “We’re seeing families travelling together more than ever, often spanning three or four generations. He observes that this trend has spurred the development of bespoke experiences, from children’s clubs to wellness retreats, ensuring every family member finds their niche.&nbsp;Kleitman takes particular pride in initiatives to engage younger generations—the Rising Fan Programme, which recruits graduates from hospitality schools, is a prime example. “Attracting talent to hospitality is vital in a competitive landscape,” he says, noting that the programme nurtures new talent and instils the core values that define MO’s culture of service and excellence. “We want the next generation of leaders to understand the importance of creating memorable experiences for our guests.”



Eventually, the conversation turns to technology’s role in enhancing the guest experience. With the recent launch of a comprehensive app to streamline travel logistics, Kleitman is keen to integrate modern conveniences without sacrificing the personal touch. “We’re constantly innovating—whether through renovations or adopting new technologies,” he explains. Mandarin Oriental has ambitious expansion plans, too—31 new projects in the pipeline means the hotels and resorts portfolio will double over the next decade. Yet, amid this growth, Kleitman remains steadfast in his belief that luxury hospitality hinges on human connection: “It’s about people interacting with people—the true essence of luxury lies not in opulent rooms but in the memories we create together.”



As our conversation draws to a close, Kleitman reflects on his journey and the meaning of luxury. “For me, luxury is about creating time for people,” he says, a novel twist on a sentiment often echoed in our Leaders of Luxury series: not just time, but time for others. It encapsulates his vision for Mandarin Oriental—a brand that prioritises meaningful interactions over transactional exchanges. Ultimately, it’s not about lavish amenities—it’s about crafting moments that linger in guests’ hearts and minds.&nbsp;As Laurent Kleitman steers Mandarin Oriental into its next chapter, his commitment to heritage, personalisation, and human connection ensures the brand remains at the forefront of luxury hospitality.



All original images shot exclusively for Robb Report Hong Kong by Chris Yau.

Mandarin Oriental Group

Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group’s Laurent Kleitman on Crafting Unforgettable Experiences and the Art of Luxury Hospitality

Anyone who has attended the four previous editions of the Golden Vines® will tell you this is no ordinary fine wine function. Also known as the “World’s Best Event,” if you don’t like fine wine, rare spirits, Michelin-star food, and incredible entertainment, it’s probably not for you. That the gathering revolves around celebrating the world’s best wines and rare spirit estates, while raising money for the Gérard Basset Foundation (the only charity to support the wine, spirit and hospitality industry globally), only adds to its feel-good atmosphere. Where else would you find at least 50 of the world’s best winemakers, mingling with A-list celebrities and lovers of hedonistic vinous and culinary pleasures, in the most spectacular venues? 



In 2021, the Golden Vines® launched at Annabel’s, the private members’ club in Mayfair, London. Chef Mauro Colagreco, of three-star Michelin restaurant Mirazur, served his most celebrated dishes paired with the likes of Dom Pérignon P2, Egon Müller, Domaine de la Romanée Conti, and Château d’Yquem, while guests danced in the aisles to a live performance from iconic pop princess Kylie Minogue.



In 2022, the three-day jamboree finished with American-British singer Celeste taking to the stage at the incredible Palazzo Vecchio, as Massimo Bottura—one of the world’s most-lauded chefs—paired his food with Château Cheval Blanc and a host of other top wines.&nbsp;



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="683" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/2022-Golden-Vines®-Montalcino-Masterclass-in-Florence.-Credit-Liquid-Icons.jpg-1024x683.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234801755" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/2022-Golden-Vines®-Montalcino-Masterclass-in-Florence.-Credit-Liquid-Icons.jpg-1024x683.webp 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/2022-Golden-Vines®-Montalcino-Masterclass-in-Florence.-Credit-Liquid-Icons.jpg-300x200.webp 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/2022-Golden-Vines®-Montalcino-Masterclass-in-Florence.-Credit-Liquid-Icons.jpg-768x512.webp 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/2022-Golden-Vines®-Montalcino-Masterclass-in-Florence.-Credit-Liquid-Icons.jpg-1536x1024.webp 1536w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/2022-Golden-Vines®-Montalcino-Masterclass-in-Florence.-Credit-Liquid-Icons.jpg.webp 1890w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>



For the 2023 event, Golden Vines® came to the flamboyant Opéra Garnier in Paris, where Alain Ducasse prepared a sumptuous menu alongside highlights including Domaine Arnoux-Lachaux’s Echézeaux Grand Cru and the world’s most expensive wine, Liber Pater.&nbsp;



Madrid was the host city in 2024. Spanish political dignitaries were present en masse at the magnificent Palacio de Cibeles, along with the main TV channels that covered the event. Guests were not disappointed as the Roca brothers, of three-star Michelin restaurant El Celler de Can Roca, laid on a feast paired with magnums of Ornellaia and the very rare 1980 Marqués de Murrieta Castillo Ygay Gran Reserva Especial from the owner’s personal cellar. Not to be outdone, the Golden Vines® Charity Gala—hosted the night before at Madrid’s Regional President’s palace—featured the outstanding food of the city’s two-Michelinstar Coque—where Mario Sandoval is at the helm—alongside magnums of Barca-Velha and Vega Sicilia, among others.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="683" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/2024-Golden-Vines-Gala.jpg-1024x683.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234801758" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/2024-Golden-Vines-Gala.jpg-1024x683.webp 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/2024-Golden-Vines-Gala.jpg-300x200.webp 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/2024-Golden-Vines-Gala.jpg-768x512.webp 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/2024-Golden-Vines-Gala.jpg.webp 1417w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>



This year, the Golden Vines® is moving across the Atlantic to Miami, from 7–9 November. Having already raised more than €4 million for the Gérard Basset Foundation to date, one can only hope that an American audience will significantly boost those figures when bidding on a range of outstanding auction lots, where every listing features money-can’t-buy experiences. So, what does Miami have in-store for guests? 



On Friday, 7 November, there are at least 10 masterclass sessions, split between the morning and afternoon, featuring many of the finest wine estates from Bordeaux, Burgundy, Champagne, Spain, Italy, Portugal, Germany, Australia, South America, and California. In the evening, the Charity Gala will take place at the historic Alfred DuPont building, with food by a soon-to-be announced celebrated chef. 



On Saturday, 8 November, guests can choose between one of 10 fine wine lunches hosted throughout the city featuring a who’swho of the stars of the fine wine world. In the evening, the black-tie Awards Gala—the “Oscars of Fine Wine”—will be hosted at the Faena Forum, where Kyle Connaughton of three-star Michelin restaurant Single Thread in California and his team will be serving up a dinner for the ages. 



On Sunday, 9 November, a series of incredible guest experiences will be on offer. These include a private jet trip from Slate Aviation—the Golden Vines® official private jet partner—to the Exuma Islands in The Bahamas, where Chef Masayuki Komatsu of Michelin-starred Ogawa will be cooking on the beach, serving Burgundy wines from Domaine Arnoux-Lachaux and Domaine JM Fourrier. Alternatively, sip your fine wine indoors over a gourmet lunch at one of the world’s largest private collections of Ferraris and Porsches; or enjoy a caviar and fine wine experience from actor Aaron Paul’s The Only Caviar brand—plus a host of other equally enticing experiences. 



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="683" height="1024" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/2022-Golden-Vines®-Dom-Perignon-Masterclass-at-Enoteca-Pinchiorri-in-Florence.-Credit-Liquid-Icons-1366x2048.jpg-683x1024.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234801757" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/2022-Golden-Vines®-Dom-Perignon-Masterclass-at-Enoteca-Pinchiorri-in-Florence.-Credit-Liquid-Icons-1366x2048.jpg-683x1024.webp 683w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/2022-Golden-Vines®-Dom-Perignon-Masterclass-at-Enoteca-Pinchiorri-in-Florence.-Credit-Liquid-Icons-1366x2048.jpg-200x300.webp 200w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/2022-Golden-Vines®-Dom-Perignon-Masterclass-at-Enoteca-Pinchiorri-in-Florence.-Credit-Liquid-Icons-1366x2048.jpg-768x1151.webp 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/2022-Golden-Vines®-Dom-Perignon-Masterclass-at-Enoteca-Pinchiorri-in-Florence.-Credit-Liquid-Icons-1366x2048.jpg-1025x1536.webp 1025w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/2022-Golden-Vines®-Dom-Perignon-Masterclass-at-Enoteca-Pinchiorri-in-Florence.-Credit-Liquid-Icons-1366x2048.jpg.webp 1366w" sizes="(max-width: 683px) 100vw, 683px" /></figure>



The wines being served at the two gala dinners are superb: the top reserves, in large formats, from Krug, Dom Pérignon, Rare Champagne, Domaine Vincent Dancer, Château d’Yquem, Colgin Estate, Ridge Monte Bello, Il Marroneto Madonna delle Grazie, Château Lafite Rothschild, and Egon Müller, among others. And don’t expect small pours: the Golden Vines® is designed around generosity of spirit, meaning guests will never run out of wine, however hard they try. 



The hosts and entertainment are yet to be announced for the 2025 event, but as you can imagine the Golden Vines® never disappoint. To be one of the guests in attendance you will need to prove your credentials. This is not an easy ticket to get, as the event is limited to 275 guests. Good luck!&nbsp;



Apply for tickets to the 2025 Golden Vines® in Miami, from 7–9 November, at liquidicons.com/miami and quote “Robb Report Monaco.”

america

Golden Vines

Oscars of Fine Wine

Wine

Wine event

The “Oscars of Fine Wine” Is Going to America For the First Time. Here’s How to Secure a Ticket.

Celebrity chef and restaurateur Akira Back has won over taste buds around the world with his empire of restaurants, and now, his sights are set on Hong Kong.



Back’s first venture in the city—the eponymous <a href="https://akirabackhk.com/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Akira Back</a>—is now open at <a href="https://www.robbreport.hk/posts/bauhinia-bud-inspired-skyscraper-the-henderson-is-reshaping-hong-kongs-skyline" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">The Henderson</a>, marking the first of three culinary concepts to open at the architectural icon in Central. Japanese-Korean-American cuisine is the name of the game at Akira Back, and the oft-awarded chef presents a bold philosophy that sees tradition and innovation woven into an artistic array of dishes, inspired by life and memories.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="1024" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Akira-Back-AB-Cucumber-Salad-1024x1024.jpeg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234801691" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Akira-Back-AB-Cucumber-Salad-1024x1024.jpeg 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Akira-Back-AB-Cucumber-Salad-300x300.jpeg 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Akira-Back-AB-Cucumber-Salad-150x150.jpeg 150w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Akira-Back-AB-Cucumber-Salad-768x768.jpeg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Akira-Back-AB-Cucumber-Salad-1536x1536.jpeg 1536w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Akira-Back-AB-Cucumber-Salad-2048x2048.jpeg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">AB cucumber salad.</figcaption></figure>



As Back dips his toes into a new market with this latest opening—this is, after all, still terra incognita to the chef in terms of audience, reception, and preferences—the restaurant’s initial launch menu is safely puzzled together from the tried-and-tested, the well-received, and the best-selling. Hong Kong diners, those familiar and unfamiliar with the quintessential Akira Back table, can encounter his culinary concept in a nutshell through signatures popularised at his other restaurants, such as the delicate AB cucumber salad, painstakingly constructed by folding slivers of the vegetable into a dome-like shape reminiscent of playground climbers. Back refers to his cuisine as Korean-Japanese with American flair—a reflection of his own personal background, from Seoul to Aspen to the world—and the lines between the food cultures certainly blur when you peruse the menu. It’s “comfortable food, it looks simple, but it takes a long time to make,” Back says, and his compressed watermelon carpaccio is one such creation, where first impressions belie the dish’s true nature. What appear to be slices of roasted red bell peppers are, in fact, neat piles of watermelon marinated in paprika vinaigrette for 24 hours, crumbled over with feta and candied walnuts. Back’s meticulous preparation provides a positively mind-boggling dish with a surprising twist.



<figure class="wp-block-gallery has-nested-images columns-default is-cropped wp-block-gallery-2 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="1234801686" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Akira-Back-48-hour-Wagyu-Short-Ribs-1024x683.jpeg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234801686" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Akira-Back-48-hour-Wagyu-Short-Ribs-1024x683.jpeg 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Akira-Back-48-hour-Wagyu-Short-Ribs-300x200.jpeg 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Akira-Back-48-hour-Wagyu-Short-Ribs-768x512.jpeg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Akira-Back-48-hour-Wagyu-Short-Ribs-1536x1024.jpeg 1536w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Akira-Back-48-hour-Wagyu-Short-Ribs-2048x1365.jpeg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">48-hour Wagyu short ribs.</figcaption></figure>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="683" data-id="1234801688" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Akira-Back-AB-Tuna-Pizza-1024x683.jpeg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234801688" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Akira-Back-AB-Tuna-Pizza-1024x683.jpeg 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Akira-Back-AB-Tuna-Pizza-300x200.jpeg 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Akira-Back-AB-Tuna-Pizza-768x512.jpeg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Akira-Back-AB-Tuna-Pizza-1536x1024.jpeg 1536w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Akira-Back-AB-Tuna-Pizza-2048x1365.jpeg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">AB tuna pizza.</figcaption></figure>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="683" data-id="1234801687" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Akira-Back-Brother-from-Another-Mother-1024x683.jpeg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234801687" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Akira-Back-Brother-from-Another-Mother-1024x683.jpeg 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Akira-Back-Brother-from-Another-Mother-300x200.jpeg 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Akira-Back-Brother-from-Another-Mother-768x512.jpeg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Akira-Back-Brother-from-Another-Mother-1536x1024.jpeg 1536w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Akira-Back-Brother-from-Another-Mother-2048x1365.jpeg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Brother From Another Mother.</figcaption></figure>
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From a moreish grilled avocado with garlic butter and togarashi to a miso black cod with Akira Back’s signature yuja sake foam and shishito, and a nuanced, gujeolpan-inspired toro tartare folded with a blend of condiments and toppings, crowned with Oscietra caviar, drizzled in wasabi soy sauce, and served with wonton chips, the menu is artistic and creative, balancing innovation with precision and a degree of comfortable familiarity. Back’s 48-hour Wagyu short ribs are a straightforward but impressively exemplary take on the classic Korean galbi-jim braised short ribs, and, together with the AB tuna pizza and Brother From Another Mother sushi roll, should not be slept on.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="683" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Akira-Back-AB-Tiramisu-1024x683.jpeg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234801689" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Akira-Back-AB-Tiramisu-1024x683.jpeg 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Akira-Back-AB-Tiramisu-300x200.jpeg 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Akira-Back-AB-Tiramisu-768x512.jpeg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Akira-Back-AB-Tiramisu-1536x1024.jpeg 1536w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Akira-Back-AB-Tiramisu-2048x1365.jpeg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">AB tiramisu.</figcaption></figure>



Akira Back’s apple harumaki dessert is highly accomplished and unexpected. It presents the nostalgic flavours of a comforting apple pie in the form of a deep-fried Japanese spring roll bursting with a delightfully sweet, mouthwatering filling of cinnamon cream cheese and caramelised apple, but the most remarkable part about the dish is it perfectly maintains its structural integrity and superbly crisp texture well after it’s been served. Meanwhile, the tart, light, and bright yuzu shiso—featuring a melange of confit citrus fruit, lime madeleine, yuko yuzu sorbet, and green shiso cream—refreshes the palate with a zesty punch, capping off the meal.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="683" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Akira-Back-04-1024x683.jpeg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234801693" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Akira-Back-04-1024x683.jpeg 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Akira-Back-04-300x200.jpeg 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Akira-Back-04-768x512.jpeg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Akira-Back-04-1536x1024.jpeg 1536w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Akira-Back-04-2048x1365.jpeg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>



Finding a home within a design-forward landmark penned by none other than Zaha Hadid Architects meant the restaurant interiors had to be appropriately striking. AB Concept rose to the occasion, mapping out a space that matches the dynamism and sophistication of Back’s genre-breaking cuisine, while respectfully balancing the building’s original design concept. A soft energy permeates the dining room, influencing shape, material, and colour—a decision that “was absolutely intentional,” shares AB Concept associate Rex Wang. “Our primary goal was to create a chic and serene dining oasis that stands in stark contrast to its setting within an office tower.” Standing in the Akira Back restaurant, the workplace atmosphere is easily forgotten. Gentle curves, undulating lines, and spherical elements evoke a sense of femininity, with dark swathes of colour and finishing standing in contrast to bring drama into the picture.



<figure class="wp-block-gallery has-nested-images columns-default is-cropped wp-block-gallery-3 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="1234801696" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Akira-Back-02-1024x683.jpeg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234801696" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Akira-Back-02-1024x683.jpeg 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Akira-Back-02-300x200.jpeg 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Akira-Back-02-768x512.jpeg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Akira-Back-02-1536x1024.jpeg 1536w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Akira-Back-02-2048x1365.jpeg 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="1234801694" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Akira-Back-05-1024x683.jpeg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234801694" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Akira-Back-05-1024x683.jpeg 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Akira-Back-05-300x200.jpeg 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Akira-Back-05-768x512.jpeg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Akira-Back-05-1536x1024.jpeg 1536w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Akira-Back-05-2048x1365.jpeg 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="1234801695" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Akira-Back-13-1024x683.jpeg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234801695" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Akira-Back-13-1024x683.jpeg 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Akira-Back-13-300x200.jpeg 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Akira-Back-13-768x512.jpeg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Akira-Back-13-1536x1024.jpeg 1536w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Akira-Back-13-2048x1365.jpeg 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="1234801697" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Akira-Back-14-1024x683.jpeg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234801697" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Akira-Back-14-1024x683.jpeg 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Akira-Back-14-300x200.jpeg 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Akira-Back-14-768x512.jpeg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Akira-Back-14-1536x1024.jpeg 1536w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Akira-Back-14-2048x1365.jpeg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>
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“Our design DNA directly draws inspiration from […] The Henderson,” Wang tells Robb Report Hong Kong as he explains how his team used parametric design tools to create the restaurant’s organic interior forms. “For instance, the ceiling’s intricate lattice features individually unique panels, reflecting the tower’s own innovative structural language. […] Elements like the undulating mirrors are a direct homage, mimicking the iconic curving facade of the building itself.” Petal-like shapes throughout the custom-designed furniture pieces echo The Henderson’s Hong Kong orchid concept.



<figure class="wp-block-gallery has-nested-images columns-default is-cropped wp-block-gallery-4 is-layout-flex wp-block-gallery-is-layout-flex">
<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="819" height="1024" data-id="1234801700" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Akira-Back-11-819x1024.jpeg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234801700" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Akira-Back-11-819x1024.jpeg 819w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Akira-Back-11-240x300.jpeg 240w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Akira-Back-11-768x960.jpeg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Akira-Back-11-1229x1536.jpeg 1229w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Akira-Back-11-1638x2048.jpeg 1638w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Akira-Back-11-scaled.jpeg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 819px) 100vw, 819px" /></figure>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="819" height="1024" data-id="1234801699" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Akira-Back-07-819x1024.jpeg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234801699" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Akira-Back-07-819x1024.jpeg 819w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Akira-Back-07-240x300.jpeg 240w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Akira-Back-07-768x960.jpeg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Akira-Back-07-1229x1536.jpeg 1229w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Akira-Back-07-1638x2048.jpeg 1638w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Akira-Back-07-scaled.jpeg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 819px) 100vw, 819px" /></figure>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="819" height="1024" data-id="1234801698" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Akira-Back-06-819x1024.jpeg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234801698" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Akira-Back-06-819x1024.jpeg 819w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Akira-Back-06-240x300.jpeg 240w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Akira-Back-06-768x960.jpeg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Akira-Back-06-1229x1536.jpeg 1229w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Akira-Back-06-1638x2048.jpeg 1638w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Akira-Back-06-scaled.jpeg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 819px) 100vw, 819px" /></figure>
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Notably, Back’s mother’s art is everywhere—in the ceramics, on the menu cover, on the walls. It’s a constant companion for the chef, and AB Concept seamlessly melds Young-hee Back’s abstract motifs into the greater interior canvas. Wang shares that “the artwork of Back’s mother is indeed the heart and soul of the brand, as her cooking was the original inspiration for his culinary journey.” As a tribute, her paintings play prominent roles as large-scale statement pieces in the private dining room and above the sushi bar, “ensuring her creative spirit is part of every aspect of the dining experience,” says Wang. Book out the private dining room, if only to ooh and aah at the whimsical “marshmallow” ceiling—it’s Back’s favourite space in the restaurant because of his mother’s artwork, but it’s our favourite because of the superb views.



<a href="https://akirabackhk.com/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Akira Back</a>



5/F, The Henderson, 2 Murray Road, Central, Hong Kong



Tel: (+852) 9733 8988



All images courtesy of Akira Back.

AB Concept

Akira Back

Fusion

Japanese Cuisine

Korean Cuisine

Akira Back’s New Restaurant in Hong Kong Has Opened. Here’s What to Expect.

Aston Martin

Bentley

Hypercar

Lamborghini

luxury car

motors

Rolls-Royce

The Best in Wheels 2025, From the Rolls-Royce Cullinan Series II and Aston Martin Vantage to Porsche 911 S/T

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.

hybrid

Supercar

Aston Martin Just Unveiled Its First Plug-In Hybrid Supercar

Sure, you can drive the&nbsp;<a href="http://google.com/search?q=lamborghini+sterrato+robbreport&amp;rlz=1C5GCCM_en&amp;oq=lamborghini+sterrato+robbreport&amp;gs_lcrp=EgZjaHJvbWUyBggAEEUYOTIJCAEQIRgKGKABMgkIAhAhGAoYoAEyCQgDECEYChigATIJCAQQIRgKGKABMgkIBRAhGAoYoAEyBwgGECEYqwIyBwgHECEYjwLSAQg1OTAyajBqN6gCALACAA&amp;sourceid=chrome&amp;ie=UTF-8" rel="noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">Lamborghini Huracan Sterrato</a>&nbsp;off-road, but the latest Raging Bull can be taken off land completely.



The Italian supercar maker has teamed up with Cayago for a special edition of the <a href="https://robbreport.com/motors/marine/gallery/best-water-gear-for-entertainment-1235821301/2-superyacht-seat/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ubiquitous Seabob</a>. The German company says the latest version of its battery-powered <a href="https://robbreport.com/tag/personal-watercraft/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">personal watercraft</a> is also its most powerful model yet.



This isn’t the first time&nbsp;<a href="https://robbreport.com/tag/lamborghini/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Lamborghini</a>&nbsp;has built a supercar for the sea. Earlier this decade, the automaker teamed up with Tecnomar for a 4,000-hp sport yacht called the&nbsp;<a href="https://robbreport.com/motors/marine/new-63-foot-lamborghini-yacht-supercar-1234624181/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Lamborghini 63</a>. The new Seabob Special Edition 63 (or SE63)—1963 was the year Lamborghini transitioned from making tractors to sports cars—isn’t anywhere near as powerful but is also a decidedly more accessible type of water toy.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/lamborghini-cayago-seabob-se63-3.jpg-1-1024x576.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234801660" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/lamborghini-cayago-seabob-se63-3.jpg-1-1024x576.webp 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/lamborghini-cayago-seabob-se63-3.jpg-1-300x169.webp 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/lamborghini-cayago-seabob-se63-3.jpg-1-768x432.webp 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/lamborghini-cayago-seabob-se63-3.jpg-1.webp 1200w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Cayago Seabob SE63 for Automobili Lamborghini. Image courtesy of Lamborghini</figcaption></figure>



The collaboration is based on the current-generation Seabob F9, which was actually designed with the help of Studio F.A. Porsche, <a href="https://newatlas.com/boats-watersports/high-power-seabob-se63-jet-sled/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">according to Newatlas</a>. The newer watercraft features a subtly reworked look that includes nods to Lamborghini’s current crop of supercars, including an angular fascia inspired by that of the <a href="http://google.com/search?q=lamborghini+revuelto+robbreport&amp;rlz=1C5GCCM_en&amp;oq=lamborghini+revuelto+robbreport&amp;gs_lcrp=EgZjaHJvbWUqBggAEEUYOzIGCAAQRRg7MgYIARBFGDzSAQg1Njg3ajBqN6gCALACAA&amp;sourceid=chrome&amp;ie=UTF-8" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Revuelto</a> and hexagonal headlamps similar to those found on the <a href="http://google.com/search?q=lamborghini+temerario+robbreport&amp;rlz=1C5GCCM_en&amp;oq=lamborghini+temerario+robbreport&amp;gs_lcrp=EgZjaHJvbWUyBggAEEUYOTIGCAEQRRg8MgYIAhBFGDzSAQgzNzA5ajBqNKgCALACAA&amp;sourceid=chrome&amp;ie=UTF-8" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Temerario</a>. It also comes in a slew of bold colours that were dreamt up in Sant’Agata Bolognese, including Arancio Egon (orange), Verde Gea (bronze green), Grigio Lynx (grey), Verde Selvans (neon green), Giallo (yellow), and Bianco Siderale (white).



The SE63 also packs plenty of power, by Cayago standards. The electric motor in the latest Seabob makes 8.4 hp. That is nothing compared to the Temerario (907 hp) or Revuelto (1,001 hp), but neither of those can operate underwater. That figure is also significantly more than the other Seabobs currently on the market, the F9 and F9S, which make 3.5 hp and 4.8 hp, respectively. The bigger motor does mean that the SE63 weighs 20 pounds more than the rest of the Cayago lineup, but it can still reach a speed of up to 22 mph, dive to a depth of 25 meters (roughly 82 feet), and run for 60 minutes on a single charge.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/lamborghini-cayago-seabob-se63-1.jpg-1-1024x576.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234801661" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/lamborghini-cayago-seabob-se63-1.jpg-1-1024x576.webp 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/lamborghini-cayago-seabob-se63-1.jpg-1-300x169.webp 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/lamborghini-cayago-seabob-se63-1.jpg-1-768x432.webp 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/lamborghini-cayago-seabob-se63-1.jpg-1.webp 1200w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">The SE63 can reach speeds of up to 22 mph. Image courtesy of Lamborghini</figcaption></figure>



Intrigued? Neither Lamborghini nor Cayago has announced how much the SE63 will cost just yet. The F9 starts at US$10,725 (approximately HK$83,445) and the F9S at US$14,465 (approximately HK$112,565), so a price well north of the latter seems likely.



Click <a href="https://robbreport.com/motors/cars/gallery/photos-lamborghini-cayago-se63-most-powerful-seabob-1237037862" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">here</a> for more photos of the Cayago Seabob SE63 for Automobili Lamborghini.

Scooter

underwater scooter

Lamborghini’s First Underwater Scooter Is One of the Most Powerful Ever

A&nbsp;<a href="https://robbreport.com/motors/cars/mansour-ojjeh-orange-mclaren-collection-1236857390/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">collection of 20 pristine McLarens</a>&nbsp;owned by the late&nbsp;<a href="https://robbreport.com/shelter/homes-for-sale/mclaren-formula-one-owner-sells-his-california-ranch-for-110-million-2842941/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Mansour Ojjeh</a>&nbsp;has found a buyer—but who it is is anyone’s guess for now.



Ojjeh, who died in 2021, was a French-Saudi billionaire and former CEO of the TAG Group who spent decades building the collection after a chance meeting with former&nbsp;<a href="https://robbreport.com/tag/mclaren/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">McLaren</a>&nbsp;CEO Ron Dennis following the Italian Grand Prix.



Ojjeh encouraged Dennis and legendary designer <a href="https://robbreport.com/motors/cars/gordon-murray-easier-win-f1-le-mans-1236196912/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Gordon Murray</a> to develop a road-going car, too, which ended up being the F1, one of the greatest cars ever built. Ojjeh’s 20-car collection includes a 1998 F1, in addition to numerous cars from McLaren history, ending with a 2023 Elva. Nearly all of them are in a colour now known as “Mansour Orange,” but originally named for a dessert wine. 



Only two of the cars have actually been driven, including the F1, which has around 1,100 miles on the odometer, and a P1 GTR that was run on the track. Lewis Hamilton drove Ojjeh’s kids around in that latter car,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.thedrive.com/news/worlds-greatest-mclaren-collection-scooped-by-single-undisclosed-buyer" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">according to&nbsp;The Drive</a>. The rest of the cars are in “factory-delivered condition.”



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/ojjeh07.jpg-1-1024x576.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234801285" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/ojjeh07.jpg-1-1024x576.webp 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/ojjeh07.jpg-1-300x169.webp 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/ojjeh07.jpg-1-768x432.webp 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/ojjeh07.jpg-1.webp 1200w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Image courtesy of Tom Hartley Jnr</figcaption></figure>



When the collection was put up for sale earlier this year, it seemed likely that it might be sold for parts, since a collection of this size and provenance was <a href="https://www.reuters.com/sports/formula1/single-buyer-snaps-up-ojjehs-mclaren-collection-2025-08-27/#:~:text=A%20value%20of%20more%20than,come%20off%20the%20production%20line." target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">said to be worth at least US$70 million</a> (approximately HK$544.63 million), which disqualifies all but the wealthiest buyers. Now, though, the broker working on the sale said the entire collection has been sold to one person.



“I am very pleased to share the <a href="https://robbreport.com/tag/news/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">news</a> that we have agreed a sale of the Mansour Ojjeh McLaren Collection in its entirety to a single buyer,” Tom Hartley, Jr, the broker on the sale, <a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/DN2-Re2WAmW/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">said on Instagram</a>. “Despite receiving several world-record offers for individual chassis, both the Ojjeh family and our team were committed to keeping this remarkable collection together as one complete and historic ensemble.”



The name of the buyer was not disclosed, nor was the price. The collection includes the aforementioned F1, P1 GTR, and Elva, in addition to a 2021 Sabre, 2021 Speedtail, 2015 P1, three 2020 Sennas, 2021 620R, 2016 650S Can-Am Spider, two 2016 675LTs, 2016 688 MSO HS, two 2020 600LTs, 2022 765LT Coupe, 2023 765LT Spider, 2015 650S Le Mans, and 2022 720S Le Mans.



Click <a href="https://robbreport.com/motors/cars/gallery/photos-mansour-ojjeh-mclaren-collection-for-sale-1236857654/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">here</a> for more photos of Mansour Ojjeh’s McLaren collection.

Mansour Oijeh

McLaren

McLaren Collection

The World’s Greatest McLaren Collection Was Just Snapped Up by an Anonymous Buyer

Yangwang just set a new top speed record with its&nbsp;<a href="https://robbreport.com/motors/cars/byds-electric-yangwang-u9-supercar-1235525797/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">all-electric U9 hypercar</a>, going 293.5 mph in a speed test and making it what the Chinese marque says is the world’s fastest EV.



The U9 costs something like a quarter-million dollars, and it originally&nbsp;<a href="https://robbreport.com/motors/cars/byd-yangwang-u9-244-mph-top-speed-faster-than-thought-1235993208/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">set out to go just 192 mph</a>&nbsp;when it was first announced. That number was clearly lowballing it a little bit, as&nbsp;<a href="https://robbreport.com/motors/cars/yangwang-u9-233-mph-worlds-third-fastest-ev-1235811600/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">the car went 233 mph</a>&nbsp;within months. Then the hypercar&nbsp;<a href="https://robbreport.com/motors/cars/byd-yangwang-u9-244-mph-top-speed-faster-than-thought-1235993208/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">went 244 mph</a>&nbsp;later last year, behind, among EVs, only the Aspark Owl, which has gone 272.6 mph, and the&nbsp;<a href="https://robbreport.com/motors/cars/rimacs-all-electric-nevera-r-new-world-record-1236876767/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Rimac Nevera R</a>, which has gone 268 mph.



The U9 has now surpassed those cars during a run at a track in Germany earlier this month. The 2,959 horsepower (you read that right) U9 Track Edition did the run powered by its four electric motors on 8 August, with Yangwang <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LiDflyT95E0" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">publishing a video to prove it</a>.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="577" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/pic-3-20250808_Yangwang-4-1-e1756304893926.jpg-1024x577.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234801326" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/pic-3-20250808_Yangwang-4-1-e1756304893926.jpg-1024x577.webp 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/pic-3-20250808_Yangwang-4-1-e1756304893926.jpg-300x169.webp 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/pic-3-20250808_Yangwang-4-1-e1756304893926.jpg-768x433.webp 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/pic-3-20250808_Yangwang-4-1-e1756304893926.jpg.webp 1200w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">The Yangwang U9. Image courtesy of Yangwang</figcaption></figure>



The hypercar achieved that 293.5 mph with a torque-vectoring system that, impressively, can change the amount of torque to each individual wheel up to 100 times per second. That is fast enough to be almost continuous, meaning the car is constantly monitoring grip and optimising power to change wheel speeds virtually instantaneously to go ever faster.



A separate system does something similar for the suspension, Yangwang says, performing “rapid, independent vertical adjustments to the suspension at each corner of the vehicle during aggressive acceleration and cornering, or on uneven surfaces.” When it comes to extreme speeds, having the right tires is just as important, and Yangwang teamed up with the Indonesian tire company Giti on a semi-slick tire specifically for the test.



It’s a little complicated when it comes to actual EV speed records, with Guinness&nbsp;<a href="https://www.guinnessworldrecords.com/world-records/497665-fastest-electric-car-non-fia" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">recognising</a>&nbsp;the Venturi Buckeye Bullet 3 as the current holder. The Venturi Buckeye Bullet 3 went 341.3 mph at the Bonneville Salt Flats in 2016, though that Buckeye Bullet 3 isn’t a road-going car so much as a vehicle expressly designed to break land speed records. The U9 also apparently only did its run in one direction,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.caranddriver.com/news/a65899841/yangwang-u9-top-speed-record-293-mph/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">as&nbsp;Car and Driver&nbsp;pointed out</a>, when record runs typically go once in opposite directions. Still, the U9 is indisputably fast.



“Last year, I thought I’d peaked,” Marc Basseng, the German driver who previously took the U9 to 244 mph,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bydukmedia.com/en/news-articles/yangwang-u9-track-edition-sets-new-global-ev-top-speed-record-472.41-km/h.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">said in a statement</a>. “I never expected to break my own record so soon—but here we are, at the same track, with new technologies that have made it possible.”

Fastest EV

Yangwang

Yangwang’s 2,959 HP Hypercar Just Became the World’s Fastest EV

As Porsche celebrates the 60th anniversary of the Targa model, a trifecta of new offerings are in store, encapsulating the brand’s relentless pursuit of perfection and marrying cutting-edge technology with timeless design. With the introduction of the 911 Carrera 4S, alongside the Cabriolet and Targa 4S variants, the storied marque not only pays homage to its illustrious past but also boldly strides into the future.



At the heart of the new 911 Carrera 4S models lies a potent 3.0-litre twin-turbocharged six-cylinder boxer engine, now delivering an exhilarating 480 PS. This represents a significant leap in power, with an increase of 30 PS over its predecessor. The enhanced performance is attributed to an optimised intercooler system, a design borrowed from the revered 911 Turbo, ensuring that the driving experience is about speed and emotional engagement. The all-wheel-drive system—a hallmark of Porsche’s engineering prowess—provides exceptional traction, particularly in adverse weather conditions, instilling confidence on even the most challenging roads.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="683" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/thumbnail.cgi-2-1024x683.jpeg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234800377" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/thumbnail.cgi-2-1024x683.jpeg 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/thumbnail.cgi-2-300x200.jpeg 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/thumbnail.cgi-2-768x512.jpeg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/thumbnail.cgi-2-1536x1024.jpeg 1536w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/thumbnail.cgi-2-2048x1365.jpeg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>



The Carrera 4S Coupé can sprint from 0 to 100 km/h in a mere 3.3 seconds when equipped with the Sport Chrono Package. This remarkable acceleration is complemented by a top speed of 308 km/h, firmly positioning the 911 as a leader in its class. Yet, it is not just raw power that defines this model; the meticulous engineering of its driving dynamics, with a rear-biased layout, ensures a thrilling yet stable ride, whether navigating winding country lanes or cruising the Autobahn.



The Targa variant, an icon in its own right, marries the open-air experience with the structural integrity of a coupé. In pop culture, the car famously appeared in the television series&nbsp;Friends&nbsp;as the coveted vehicle inherited by one of the lead characters. It has also made memorable cameos in films such as&nbsp;Bad Boys&nbsp;and&nbsp;Gone in 60 Seconds, as well as in television shows including&nbsp;MacGyver&nbsp;and&nbsp;Better Call Saul, among others. Since its introduction in the 1960s, the Targa has evolved while retaining its distinctive charm. The latest iteration features a fully automatic roof mechanism that transitions from enclosed comfort to open-air driving in just 19 seconds—a spectacular transformation that enhances the driving experience. This model is both a tribute to the past and a showcase of Porsche’s commitment to innovation.



Porsche has also taken significant strides in enhancing the standard equipment across these new models. Now featuring staggered-fitment Carrera S wheels, a Porsche Torque Vectoring Plus (PTV+) system, and an aggressive sports exhaust, these cars are designed not only for performance but also for an intoxicating driving experience. The braking system, derived from the GTS models, incorporates distinctive red brake callipers and substantial discs, ensuring that stopping power matches the impressive acceleration.



<figure class="wp-block-gallery has-nested-images columns-default is-cropped wp-block-gallery-5 is-layout-flex wp-block-gallery-is-layout-flex">
<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="819" height="1024" data-id="1234800378" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/thumbnail.cgi-4-819x1024.jpeg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234800378" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/thumbnail.cgi-4-819x1024.jpeg 819w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/thumbnail.cgi-4-240x300.jpeg 240w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/thumbnail.cgi-4-768x960.jpeg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/thumbnail.cgi-4-1229x1536.jpeg 1229w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/thumbnail.cgi-4.jpeg 1280w" sizes="(max-width: 819px) 100vw, 819px" /></figure>



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Inside, the new 911 models reflect Porsche’s dedication to luxury and comfort. A leather package adorns the cabin, complemented by matrix LED headlights and wireless smartphone charging capabilities. The attention to detail is evident, with features such as electrically folding exterior mirrors and a comprehensive light design package, all crafted to elevate the sophistication for which Porsche is renowned.&nbsp;



Porsche’s understanding of its clientele is evident in the extensive range of personalisation options available. Customers can choose from a myriad of colour and material combinations, ensuring that each car can be tailored to reflect individual taste.



As the 911 series continues to evolve, it remains a symbol of automotive excellence and innovation. The introduction of the Carrera 4S, Carrera 4S Cabriolet, and Targa 4S further solidifies Porsche’s position as a leader in the luxury sports car market. With prices starting at HK$3 million for the Carrera 4S and rising for the more elaborate variants, these models are not merely purchases but investments in a legacy of performance and prestige. For those who seek the ultimate driving experience, the latest 911 models offer an invitation to indulge in the pure joy of driving—a privilege that only a few can truly appreciate.



All images courtesy of Porsche.

60th anniversary

911 Carrera 4S

New model

Porsche

Targa model

Porsche Unveils the New 911 Carrera 4S, a Triumph of Engineering and Design

<a href="https://www.kempinski.com/en/bali" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">The Apurva Kempinski Bali</a>, a luxury resort celebrated for its dedication to showcasing Indonesia’s vibrant cultural tapestry, is set to unveil <a href="https://www.kempinski.com/en/the-apurva-kempinski-bali/luxury-spa/special-offer/mauna" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Mauna–The Art of Silence</a> this October. Nestled where emerald rice terraces meet the azure waters of the Indian Ocean, this groundbreaking wellness experience redefines the essence of silence and tranquillity. Drawing inspiration from Nyepi, Bali’s Day of Silence, this innovative, holistic programme invites guests to embark on a journey of mindfulness and spiritual reconnection.



Mauna, derived from the Sanskrit word for “silence,” transcends the concept of a mere wellness retreat. It is an immersive experience that encourages participants to step away from the clamour of daily life and embrace deep introspection. Rooted in traditional Balinese practices, where the Day of Silence fosters self-reflection, purification, and spiritual renewal, the island pauses, allowing inhabitants and visitors alike to immerse themselves in a day devoid of sound, light, and activity—an environment primed for inward exploration.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="768" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/Apurva-Kempinski_Apurva-Spa_RS-1024x768.jpeg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234801125" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/Apurva-Kempinski_Apurva-Spa_RS-1024x768.jpeg 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/Apurva-Kempinski_Apurva-Spa_RS-300x225.jpeg 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/Apurva-Kempinski_Apurva-Spa_RS-768x576.jpeg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/Apurva-Kempinski_Apurva-Spa_RS-1536x1152.jpeg 1536w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/Apurva-Kempinski_Apurva-Spa_RS-2048x1536.jpeg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Apurva Spa.</figcaption></figure>



Ira Maharani, director of the <a href="https://www.kempinski.com/en/the-apurva-kempinski-bali/luxury-spa" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Apurva Spa</a>, articulates the vision behind Mauna, explaining that “Mauna is an opportunity for us to inspire the world by sharing Bali’s spiritual depth.” By weaving together gentle breathwork, guided meditation, and mindful movement, Mauna equips participants with the necessary tools to achieve emotional balance, clarity, and a deeper connection to their authentic selves, as the programme is meticulously crafted to create a sanctuary where guests can discover the restorative power of silence.



Upon arriving at the Apurva Spa, guests are greeted by breathtaking vistas of the serene ocean, setting the stage for a holistic retreat that marries luxury with spirituality. Apurva Spa itself is a haven dedicated to wellness, embodying the Indonesian proverb “rupasampat wahyabiantara,” which underscores that true beauty arises from harmony between our outer and inner selves. Every element of the Mauna experience is curated to align mind, body, and spirit, ensuring participants depart not only rejuvenated but also enriched with a deeper understanding of themselves and their surroundings.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="683" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/Apurva-Kempinski_Apurva-Spa_RS2-1024x683.jpeg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234801124" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/Apurva-Kempinski_Apurva-Spa_RS2-1024x683.jpeg 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/Apurva-Kempinski_Apurva-Spa_RS2-300x200.jpeg 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/Apurva-Kempinski_Apurva-Spa_RS2-768x512.jpeg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/Apurva-Kempinski_Apurva-Spa_RS2-1536x1024.jpeg 1536w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/Apurva-Kempinski_Apurva-Spa_RS2-2048x1365.jpeg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Apurva Spa.</figcaption></figure>



Guided by seasoned practitioners, Mauna sessions blend local wisdom with contemporary mindfulness techniques, honouring Balinese cultural heritage while elevating the wellness experience. Unlike conventional wellness programmes that often prioritise physical exertion, Mauna invites participants to engage with silence as a pathway to inner realignment, allowing guests to explore their thoughts, confront their emotions, and ultimately find peace within.



Vincent Guironnet,&nbsp;general&nbsp;manager of <a href="https://robbreport.hk/posts/what-its-like-to-stay-at-the-apurva-kempinski-bali-where-majesty-meets-the-divine" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">The Apurva Kempinski Bali</a>, echoes Ira Maharani’s sentiments, expressing hope that guests will forge a profound connection between Bali’s sacred essence, the transformative powers of Nyepi, and their personal journeys. “It’s about more than silence; it’s about discovering meaning and harmony within,” he says, and this philosophy resonates deeply with the ethos of the Apurva Spa. Every treatment and ritual honours the island’s spiritual legacy while offering a luxurious escape, aligning seamlessly with the growing global demand for transformative wellness experiences, reflecting a shift in how individuals prioritise mental and emotional well-being.



Mauna is not merely a fleeting retreat funnelled from what’s trending on the spa scene. It provides a portable framework for inner peace that extends far beyond one’s stay,&nbsp;based on the rich cultural heritage of the land and the seas. Participants leave equipped with mindfulness practices and breathing techniques to integrate into their daily lives, fostering a lasting commitment to wellness and self-discovery.



In an era where the noises of modern life can feel overwhelming, Mauna serves as a gentle reminder of the importance of stillness, quietude, and reflection. It invites guests to disconnect from devices and the hustle of everyday responsibilities, focusing instead on their inner landscapes. As Mauna prepares for its debut, anticipation for this innovative wellness experience is palpable. By intertwining a commitment to wellness with a dedication to preserving Indonesia’s rich heritage, this novel concept offers guests an opportunity to embark on a sacred journey that honours the past while embracing the present.



As the programme launches, Mauna promises to become a cherished cornerstone of Bali’s wellness offerings, reflecting the island’s spiritual depth and the universal human need for introspection and peace. In the embrace of silence, where the world’s cacophony fades, a sacred sanctuary unfolds, nurturing inner peace and profound, soulful wellness.



For more information on the Mauna retreat programme and bookings, click <a href="https://www.kempinski.com/en/the-apurva-kempinski-bali/luxury-spa/special-offer/mauna" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">here</a>.

Bali

Bali resort

Kempinski

Luxury Travel

Mauna

Resort

wellness

Discover the Art of Silence and Embrace Serenity With Mauna, a Holistic Wellness Experience at The Apurva Kempinski Bali

Hotelier Marie-Louise Sciò is glad she didn’t know what she didn’t know when she joined the family business, which operates a trio of luxury stays in Italy. “I didn’t go to hospitality school,” says the entrepreneur, whose best-known property is Porto Ercole’s <a href="https://www.pellicanohotels.com/en/hotels/hotel-il-pellicano/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Il Pellicano</a>. “It was a very rigid world, with a lot of men running it.” Her fresh, out-of-the-box thinking has helped her forge a reputation as an innovator—not least for her approach to the hotel’s boutique, which was once just “a little shop with crappy caps and all that.”&nbsp;



To bring it up to snuff, she began partnering with a who’s who of well-known brands and makers, such as fine-jewellery designer <a href="https://www.instagram.com/francescaamfitheatrof/?hl=en" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Francesca Amfitheatrof</a> and even Birkenstock. “That was the groundbreaking one, and it was really huge in terms of sales and global reach,” she says. “And it came out of a personal necessity, as I was wearing them all the time I was in the hotel.” 



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="577" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/Il_Pellicano_Pendant.jpg-1024x577.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234800700" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/Il_Pellicano_Pendant.jpg-1024x577.webp 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/Il_Pellicano_Pendant.jpg-300x169.webp 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/Il_Pellicano_Pendant.jpg-768x433.webp 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/Il_Pellicano_Pendant.jpg.webp 1200w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">A sarong and a Francesca Amfitheatrof–designed pendant from Il Pellicano in Italy. Image courtesy of Pellicano Hotel Group</figcaption></figure>



That sold-out collaboration—and the store itself—isn’t just a loss-leading gimmick. “It does make money for us,” Sciò adds. Now, Il Pellicano has expanded beyond just accommodations: It owns and operates a motor yacht, ideal for trips to the nearby Tuscan islands, and has even gotten into online retail via&nbsp;<a href="https://issimoissimo.com/collections/fichissimo-pellicano" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Issimo</a>, where you can buy wares emblazoned with the property’s logo.&nbsp;



High-end hotels are no longer content simply to charge you for a room or a sun lounger at a beach club. The best ones are dipping their toes into everything from clothes to accessories to yacht charters. Tuscany’s <a href="https://borgosantopietro.com/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Borgo Santo Pietro</a> operates a 136-foot mahogany schooner, Satori, that guests can book for a few days of sailing on the Tyrrhenian Sea; Mexico’s <a href="https://www.paraderohotels.com/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Paradero Todos Santos</a> offers a 46-foot sail-powered catamaran to explore the Sea of Cortez. Saint-Tropez’s <a href="https://www.byblos.com/en/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Hotel Byblos</a> teamed up with <a href="https://robbreport.com/tag/globe-trotter/">Globe-Trotter</a> to make a suitcase, while <a href="https://www.oetkerhotels.com/hotels/le-bristol-paris/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Le Bristol</a> in Paris created a highly wearable capsule collection with <a href="https://sportyandrich.com/?srsltid=AfmBOopg1Vzjlbe1KmkRMHxKK0yVdpi-tESX0drHwyJFE4P6e_4D7JQ5" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Sporty &amp; Rich</a> aimed at injecting some youthful joie de vivre into the sometimes fusty five-star hotel. Back in Italy, Lake Como’s <a href="https://www.passalacqua.it/en/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Passalacqua</a> hotel recently debuted a jaunty menswear capsule with the Swedish brand <a href="https://cdlp.com/?srsltid=AfmBOorOkGSy1SBG0ph0IMb_0heskss-CYd5BufNoItVQzYRU8TMOUhB" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">CDLP</a>. 



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="819" height="1024" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/Passalacqua_CDLP.jpg-819x1024.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234800701" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/Passalacqua_CDLP.jpg-819x1024.webp 819w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/Passalacqua_CDLP.jpg-240x300.webp 240w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/Passalacqua_CDLP.jpg-768x960.webp 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/Passalacqua_CDLP.jpg.webp 1200w" sizes="(max-width: 819px) 100vw, 819px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Passalacqua’s menswear collaboration with CDLP. Image courtesy of CDLP</figcaption></figure>



But these collaborations aren’t just about the way you <a href="https://robbreport.com/tag/travel/">travel</a>. They’re about reminding you of your favourite destinations in your daily life. Need a new rocking chair? Head to the <a href="https://www.grandhotel.com/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Grand Hotel</a> on Michigan’s Mackinac Island, renowned for its massive front porch. Redecorating? Germany’s <a href="https://www.schloss-elmau.de/en/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Schloss Elmau</a> will sell you an entire bolt of one of its signature fabrics. 



Henry Harteveldt, a travel-industry analyst with Atmosphere Research Group, says there’s one strategy underlying such brand extensions. “It’s about loyalty outside the construct of a loyalty programme,” he says. “It’s about the direct sale of a yacht charter, but also it maintains a guest’s engagement with the brand overall.” 



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="683" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/SElmau_Pillow_Throw.jpg-1024x683.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234800702" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/SElmau_Pillow_Throw.jpg-1024x683.webp 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/SElmau_Pillow_Throw.jpg-300x200.webp 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/SElmau_Pillow_Throw.jpg-768x512.webp 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/SElmau_Pillow_Throw.jpg.webp 1200w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">A throw pillow from Krun, Germany’s Schloss Elmau. Image courtesy of Schloss Elmau</figcaption></figure>



Such lifestyle offshoots have been attempted before, but the forms they take are getting more creative and elastic. Like so many other trends in travel, the inflection point was the pandemic. “I remember ordering breakfast from the Berkeley in London, which was delivered to me, so suddenly the hotel wasn’t somewhere you went—it was in your home,” says Annie Fitzsimmons, who works with travel agency <a href="https://www.embarkbeyond.com/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Embark Beyond</a>. Some hotels even launched private members’ programs at that time, adding a localised source of revenue less reliant on guests coming from afar. Operators wanted to diversify, even blur, their role in our lives to better safeguard against another time when simply selling rooms was no longer possible—or enough. 



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="577" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/GlobeTrotter_LeBristol.jpg-1024x577.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234800703" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/GlobeTrotter_LeBristol.jpg-1024x577.webp 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/GlobeTrotter_LeBristol.jpg-300x169.webp 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/GlobeTrotter_LeBristol.jpg-768x433.webp 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/GlobeTrotter_LeBristol.jpg.webp 1200w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Globe-Trotter and Hotel Byblos’s co-branded luggage; Le Bristol’s preppy partnership with Sporty &amp; Rich. Image courtesy of Julien Domionguez-Lama</figcaption></figure>



This expansion beyond rooms and suites is a marker of a wider shift in luxury writ large. “Hospitality has been the fastest-growing luxury sector overall, and it’s only going to get bigger,” says luxury expert Winston Chesterfield of&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bartonconsulting.com/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Barton Consulting</a>, noting the countless studies showing the prominence of experiences over traditional hard goods. “Travel is the ultimate luxury, because you’re prepared to spend thousands, sometimes tens of thousands, to only keep memories or photos. As soon as you’ve experienced it, it’s gone.” If you’re going to buy something, he adds, why not splurge on an item that comes with innate lifestyle associations?&nbsp;



“Being associated with these hotels, it has an equity value, especially in a social-media age.” He pauses. “More than anything, we’re being beaten over the head with luxury hotels because people want it, and they love it.”&nbsp;

Globe-trotter

Hoel Byblos

Hotels

Le Bristol's

Luxury

luxury hotels

Sporty & Rich

Why Luxury Hotels Are Selling Everything From Rocking Chairs to Swimming Trunks

Single-malt whisky maker Ardbeg just stepped onto the&nbsp;<a href="https://robbreport.com/tag/hotel/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">hotel</a>&nbsp;scene.



The famed Scottish distillery, which falls under the LVMH umbrella, has opened the doors of its&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ardbeg.com/visitus/ardbeghouse.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Ardbeg House</a>, a luxe hotel nestled in the village of Port Ellen in Islay—where, of course, the brand crafts its spirits. And, as you’d expect, the property has plenty of nods to Ardbeg’s whiskies.



That starts right with the boutique hotel’s 12 guest rooms and suites, each with their own story that shows off the history of Islay and Ardbeg. The interiors are rather unique, setting the scene for a maximalist stay that’s a far cry from a contemporary-styled retreat. One accommodation, the Rebel Suite, takes its design cues from the sea rebellions of Islay, full of nautical references, striking patterns, and bold green and blue hues. Another, the Monster Room, is awash with red and brown, offering up a chandelier that sprouts from the ceiling, seemingly alive, and a massive bed wrapped in vines as the room’s statement pieces, Afar <a href="https://www.afar.com/magazine/ardbeg-distillery-opens-boutique-hotel-in-western-scotland" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">reported.</a> The wallpaper in this space also has a special meaning: It was a custom project meant to evoke crocodile skin, paying homage to the legend of Islaygator. (The brand even created a whisky in honour of the creature.) And, if you’re looking for an extra surprise, you may find a bottle or two of whisky hidden throughout the rooms.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/ardbeg-house-monster-room.jpg-1024x576.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234801594" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/ardbeg-house-monster-room.jpg-1024x576.webp 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/ardbeg-house-monster-room.jpg-300x169.webp 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/ardbeg-house-monster-room.jpg-768x432.webp 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/ardbeg-house-monster-room.jpg.webp 1200w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Inside the Monster Room Image courtesy of Ardbeg House</figcaption></figure>



Elsewhere, the Signature Restaurant and the Islay Bar each have their own story to tell. The bar space, with a boat looming overhead and moody furniture, offers up a collection of spirits only found at the distillery—and now, the hotel, too. The Ardbeg team tapped Russell Sage Design Studio to bring the new hotel to life. The restaurant, meanwhile, offers fine dining with an Islay twist: Think hand-dived Islay scallops, Islay blackface lamb, and more.



And there are special perks for those who come to lay their heads at the new hotel. You’ll be able to snag private distillery tours and opportunities to explore Islay’s great outdoors. Plus, you’ll want to hang around the bar at 6.15 pm each night for a special whisky tasting.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/ardbeg-house-islay-bar.jpg-1024x576.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234801595" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/ardbeg-house-islay-bar.jpg-1024x576.webp 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/ardbeg-house-islay-bar.jpg-300x169.webp 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/ardbeg-house-islay-bar.jpg-768x432.webp 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/ardbeg-house-islay-bar.jpg.webp 1200w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">You can enjoy a whisky (or two) at the Islay Bar. Image courtesy of Ardbeg House</figcaption></figure>



“With Ardbeg House we are very excited to immerse our guests in the spirit of Islay and the universe of Ardbeg,” says Caspar MacRae, the brand’s president and CEO. “Whether our guests are smoky malt lovers or just discovering our exceptional whisky, we guarantee they will leave the island as lifelong fans of Ardbeg and Islay.”&nbsp;

Ardbeg Houes

Scotland

Whisky maker

Inside Whisky Maker Ardbeg’s Whimsical New Hotel in Scotland

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



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



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



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



Silhouette CX Snake



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



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



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



Avenger B01 Chronograph 44 Cobra



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



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



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



Lange 1 Moon Phase



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



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



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



Portofino Automatic Moon Phase



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



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



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



Spirit of Big Bang Year of the Snake



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



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



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



Tonda PF Xiali Chinese Calendar in Rose Gold



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



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



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



Classique 7145 Lunar New Year 2025



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



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



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



Conquest Heritage Year of the Snake



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



<figure class="wp-block-gallery has-nested-images columns-default is-cropped wp-block-gallery-6 is-layout-flex wp-block-gallery-is-layout-flex">
<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="683" data-id="1234794974" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Jaeger_2400x1600-1024x683.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234794974" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Jaeger_2400x1600-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Jaeger_2400x1600-300x200.jpg 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Jaeger_2400x1600-768x512.jpg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Jaeger_2400x1600-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Jaeger_2400x1600-2048x1365.jpg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Image courtesy of Jaeger-LeCoultre</figcaption></figure>



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



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



Reverso Tribute Enamel “Snake”



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



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



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



Chinese New Year Automatic



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



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



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



Espiègleries Tresors d’Afrique



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



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



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



The Legend of the Chinese Zodiac—Year of the Snake



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

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

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



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



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



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



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

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Rolex’s Gold Watches Just Got More Expensive

Sometimes, the best birthday gifts are the ones you make yourself.



At least that seems to be the logic behind the two newest debuts from&nbsp;<a href="https://robbreport.com/tag/vacheron-constantin/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Vacheron Constantin</a>, the Swiss watchmaker that celebrates its 270th anniversary this week. The milestone makes it the world’s oldest continuously operating timepiece manufacturer.



To commemorate the achievement, the lauded maker has devised an impressive and unique automaton clock—taller than most toddlers—that tells the time not only here on earth, but also across the solar system. In addition, it created a limited edition of 20 watches that distill the clock’s grand gestures into a wearable format. Both pieces are chock-full of references to nearly three centuries of history.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/RR-Vacheron-Constantin-Clock-The-Astronomer.jpg-1024x576.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234801624" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/RR-Vacheron-Constantin-Clock-The-Astronomer.jpg-1024x576.webp 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/RR-Vacheron-Constantin-Clock-The-Astronomer.jpg-300x169.webp 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/RR-Vacheron-Constantin-Clock-The-Astronomer.jpg-768x432.webp 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/RR-Vacheron-Constantin-Clock-The-Astronomer.jpg.webp 1200w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">The Astronomer, an automaton designed by François Junod, is a working complication that points to constellations, indicating the time with 144 tightly choreographed gestures. Image courtesy of Vacheron Constantin</figcaption></figure>



At the centre of the clock, which took seven years to bring to life and is called La Quête du Temps or The Quest for Time, there’s an automaton nicknamed “the Astronomer,” which was conceived as a standing complication and designed by François Junod, a leading maker of automatons. The figure actually tells time with its arms, pointing to retrograde scales suspended inside its glass dome, which is also decorated with constellations. On command—or on a schedule programmed 24 hours in advance—it will look to the stars, trace the path of the moon, and indicate the passing hours, all while a mechanical music box plays melodies composed by Woodkid—a musician who has collaborated with the house for several years.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/Vacheron-Constantin-Clock-Watchmaking-1.jpg-1024x576.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234801625" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/Vacheron-Constantin-Clock-Watchmaking-1.jpg-1024x576.webp 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/Vacheron-Constantin-Clock-Watchmaking-1.jpg-300x169.webp 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/Vacheron-Constantin-Clock-Watchmaking-1.jpg-768x432.webp 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/Vacheron-Constantin-Clock-Watchmaking-1.jpg.webp 1200w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">The movement for the new clock has 15 patent applications under consideration. Image courtesy of Vacheron Constantin</figcaption></figure>



To power the clock, several of the maison’s teams worked together to create a new movement, Calibre 9270, which contains 2,370 components and 23 complications, from sunrise and sunset times to a 3-D moon phase indicator so accurate that it won’t require a reset for another 110 years. All of this merited applications for 15 patents.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/Vacheron-Constantin-Clock-Zodiac-Scorpio-1.jpg-1024x576.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234801627" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/Vacheron-Constantin-Clock-Zodiac-Scorpio-1.jpg-1024x576.webp 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/Vacheron-Constantin-Clock-Zodiac-Scorpio-1.jpg-300x169.webp 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/Vacheron-Constantin-Clock-Zodiac-Scorpio-1.jpg-768x432.webp 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/Vacheron-Constantin-Clock-Zodiac-Scorpio-1.jpg.webp 1200w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">The clock’s design painstakingly references the zodiac signs, using bronze casting, gem-setting, enamelling, and other crafts to achieve its showstopping look. Image courtesy of Vacheron Constantin</figcaption></figure>



And then there’s the look of the thing. To represent all 12 zodiac signs, the stars in the night sky, and the movement of the heavens, Vacheron Constantin’s artisans deployed an impressive array of skills, including bronze casting, grand feu enamelling, gem setting (the tourbillon bezel is set with baguette diamonds, for instance), and marquetry achieved not with wood, but with mother-of-pearl.



The clock is unquestionably a museum piece, and, fittingly, it’s heading straight for one of the world’s finest such institutions. La Quête du Temps will take centre stage at the Louvre’s “Mécaniques d’Art” exhibition, which will be on display from 17 September to 12 November 2025.



Vacheron Constantin hasn’t said whether it will offer this piece for sale, but it is offering something a little more practical for its most dedicated collectors: The Métiers d’Art Tribute to the Quest of Time watch. Limited to 20 pieces, it runs on a brand-new, manually wound movement—Calibre 3670—that took three years to develop.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/RR-Vacheron-Constantin-Watch-Front-Back-1.jpg-1024x576.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234801628" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/RR-Vacheron-Constantin-Watch-Front-Back-1.jpg-1024x576.webp 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/RR-Vacheron-Constantin-Watch-Front-Back-1.jpg-300x169.webp 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/RR-Vacheron-Constantin-Watch-Front-Back-1.jpg-768x432.webp 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/RR-Vacheron-Constantin-Watch-Front-Back-1.jpg.webp 1200w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">The Métiers d’Art Tribute to the Quest of Time watch is limited to just 20 pieces. Image courtesy of Clement Rousset–Studio Cont</figcaption></figure>



Here, too, a human figure tells the time. Borrowing from a 1930s “Bras en l’Air” pocket watch from the brand’s archives, the golden figure on the dial raises its arms to indicate hours and minutes on twin retrograde arcs. But while the clock will keep running, the watch offers wearers a choice: keep the display going continuously, or let it rest in a neutral pose until you activate a pusher that summons the time on demand.



Behind the figure stretches another sky chart, which recreates the night above Geneva on 17 September 1755—the date Vacheron Constantin was founded. A precision three-dimensional moon phase indicator and twin retrograde power reserve displays round out the dial side, while the reverse reveals a sidereal time display that charts the stars in real time. All of it is packed into a 43 mm white gold case.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/Vacheron-Constantin-Watch-Comparisons.jpg-1024x576.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234801629" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/Vacheron-Constantin-Watch-Comparisons.jpg-1024x576.webp 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/Vacheron-Constantin-Watch-Comparisons.jpg-300x169.webp 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/Vacheron-Constantin-Watch-Comparisons.jpg-768x432.webp 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/Vacheron-Constantin-Watch-Comparisons.jpg.webp 1200w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">The watch’s design references archival designs, including a 1930s “Bras en l’Air” pocket watch. Image courtesy of Vacheron Constantin</figcaption></figure>



The movement itself is a feat of miniaturisation: 512 parts humming along at a high frequency of 5 Hz, which achieves a six-day power reserve. It’s an echo of the maison’s 2019 Twin Beat Perpetual Calendar, another watch that offered dual modes of operation.



But in both the case of the watch and the clock that inspired it, the designs aren’t simply about keeping time, but about representing it with real daring and artistry.



“Is it always possible to do better? Is it always possible to be amazed? Undeniably,” says Laurent Perves, CEO of Vacheron Constantin, in a statement shared with Robb Report. “At Vacheron Constantin, the pride and emotion we feel with each new project comes from the freedom and passion to create, which is fuelled by the quest for excellence and innovation.”



It all makes you wonder where this company might be in another 270 years.

clock

Vacheron Constantin

Vacheron Constantin’s Bonkers New Automaton Clock Tells the Time on Earth and Across the Stars

<a href="https://robbreport.com/tag/rolex/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Rolex</a>&nbsp;is back with another authorised history book—and this time, the spotlight is on the&nbsp;<a href="https://robbreport.com/style/watch-collector/gallery/rolex-datejust-history-1236797698/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Oyster Perpetual Datejust.</a>



On the heels of last year’s tome dedicated to the <a href="https://robbreport.com/style/watch-collector/rolex-submariner-book-1235862215/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Submariner</a>, the watch maker has once again teamed up with the publisher Wallpaper to offer an inside look at the coveted model, the brand’s most recognisable. <a href="https://robbreport.com/tag/oyster-perpetual/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Oyster Perpetual</a> Datejust: A Watch that Made History will give fans of the Crown an entire history of the timepiece across its 224 pages.



That history includes 80 years’ worth of stunning new and original photography—plus historical images from the Rolex archives—as well as the story behind how the Oyster Perpetual Datejust came to life thanks to the mind of Rolex’s founder, Hans Wilsdorf. From there, the hardcover will explore every detail behind the model, including how it came to be such a beloved timepiece, adorned by celebrities, athletes, artists, and more.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/rolex-oyster-perpetual-datejust-book-inside.jpg-1024x576.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234801726" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/rolex-oyster-perpetual-datejust-book-inside.jpg-1024x576.webp 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/rolex-oyster-perpetual-datejust-book-inside.jpg-300x169.webp 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/rolex-oyster-perpetual-datejust-book-inside.jpg-768x432.webp 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/rolex-oyster-perpetual-datejust-book-inside.jpg.webp 1200w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">A peek inside the new tome. Image courtesy of Rolex</figcaption></figure>



Rolex tapped horological historian&nbsp;<a href="https://robbreport.com/style/watch-collector/horological-historian-nick-foulkes-just-released-an-encyclopedic-new-book-dedicated-to-the-iconic-jaeger-lecoultre-reverso-1234603074/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nicholas Folkes</a>&nbsp;to tackle its latest book; the writer had previously penned the Submariner tome as well, among his many other watch-centric titles. He used exclusive access to the Rolex archives to make the book come to life, so even the most well-versed Rollie fan can take away something new from the hardcover.



“Of all of its models, the Datejust is the watch that many regard as Rolex’s most representative timepiece,” Foulkes said in a press statement. “However, do not let familiarity blunt your appreciation of what is a historically significant creation that did much to define the course that watch design would take during the second half of the 20th century; the ultimate chameleon adapting itself effortlessly to every era since its launch in 1945, it has remained true to itself throughout and the 80-year-old original is still very recognisable in its 2025 descendant.”



Oyster Perpetual Datejust: A Watch that Made History will be up for grabs starting 29 September on Wallpaper’s <a href="https://www.wallpaper.com/store/oyster-perpetual-datejust" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">website</a>, with the tome priced at about US$136 (£100/approximately HK$1,050). And as for what model the Crown plans on writing about next, we’ll just have to stay tuned.

Authorised book

book

Oyster Perpetual Datejust

Rolex Is Releasing Its First Authorised History of the Oyster Perpetual Datejust

<a href="https://robbreport.hk/brands/van-cleef-arpels/stories" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Van Cleef &amp; Arpels</a>, renowned for its artistic and culturally inspired approach to dazzling accessories, has once again captured the imagination of connoisseurs with its <a href="https://www.vancleefarpels.com/en/collections/watches/extraordinary-dials.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Perlée Extraordinaire Fruits Enchantés</a> watches. These exquisite creations, inspired by the vivid vitality of nature, embody a masterful blend of artistry and innovation that is quintessentially Van Cleef &amp; Arpels.



At the heart of the Perlée Extraordinaire collection lies an enchanting narrative that pays homage to the bountiful gifts of the earth. The Myrtille and Framboise watches are not mere instruments for telling time; they are miniature canvases depicting captivating tableaux of sun-kissed berries, brought to life through the exceptional technique of&nbsp;façonné&nbsp;enamel. This exclusive method, developed by the&nbsp;maison, enables the creation of high-relief decorations that enhance the visual depth of each piece. The result is a stunning interplay of light and texture, inviting the wearer to marvel at the intricate details adorning the dials.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="683" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/VCA_Framboise_CUP_RS-1024x683.jpeg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234801375" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/VCA_Framboise_CUP_RS-1024x683.jpeg 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/VCA_Framboise_CUP_RS-300x200.jpeg 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/VCA_Framboise_CUP_RS-768x512.jpeg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/VCA_Framboise_CUP_RS-1536x1024.jpeg 1536w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/VCA_Framboise_CUP_RS-2048x1365.jpeg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>



The artistry involved in crafting these watches is nothing short of remarkable. Each timepiece showcases delicate raspberry and blueberry motifs, meticulously crafted from&nbsp;façonné&nbsp;enamel, which captures the luscious curves and vibrant colours of the fruits in a multidimensional mirage. Surrounding these enchanting figures is a backdrop of textured gold, reminiscent of a verdant woodland, skilfully rendered through miniature painting. The inclusion of two sculpted fairies—one in rose gold, the other in white gold—adds a whimsical touch. These playful figures, adorned with diamond-set wings, serve as a poetic reminder of the passage of time, harmoniously blending fantasy with horological excellence.



Van Cleef &amp; Arpels’s commitment to preserving traditional craftsmanship is evident in every facet of the Perlée Extraordinaire watches. The&nbsp;maison’s watchmaking workshops in Geneva are sanctuaries for artisans who dedicate their lives to mastering the&nbsp;métiers d’art. Here, the legacy of sculpting and texturing gold is upheld, enriching the dials with intricate designs that reflect light in a captivating dance. The process is painstaking, requiring up to 300 hours of meticulous work to create each miniature tableau, ensuring no detail is overlooked.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="683" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/VCA_Myrtille_3Q_RS-1024x683.jpeg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234801374" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/VCA_Myrtille_3Q_RS-1024x683.jpeg 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/VCA_Myrtille_3Q_RS-300x200.jpeg 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/VCA_Myrtille_3Q_RS-768x512.jpeg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/VCA_Myrtille_3Q_RS-1536x1024.jpeg 1536w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/VCA_Myrtille_3Q_RS-2048x1365.jpeg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>



The innovation of&nbsp;façonné&nbsp;enamel, patented after 16 months of research, exemplifies the&nbsp;maison’s dedication to pushing the boundaries of artistry. This technique begins with enamel powder, carefully poured into a mould and subjected to a precise firing process. The result is a solid slab of enamel that is polished and carved to create the desired form, culminating in a luminous surface that captivates the eye. This marriage of science and art, where technical precision meets aesthetic intent, underscores Van Cleef &amp; Arpels’s unwavering pursuit of perfection.



All images courtesy of Van Cleef &amp; Arpels.

Fruits Enchantés

Luxury watches

Perlée Extraordinaire

Van Cleef

Van Cleef & Arpels

Van Cleef & Arpels’s Perlée Extraordinaire Fruits Enchantés Watches Are Timely Accessories For the Season