<a href="https://robbreport.com/tag/dior/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Dior</a> is renowned for its <a href="https://robbreport.com/lifestyle/news/dior-lor-de-vie-formulation-update-1235888029/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">cutting-edge skincare products</a> and <a href="https://robbreport.com/style/grooming/francis-kurkdjian-perfumer-1235821273/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">inspiring fragrances</a>. But this year, the company wants to dig a little deeper.



In April, the maison will host its first <a href="https://robbreport.com/tag/wellness/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">wellness</a> retreat at the Hotel du Cap-Eden-Roc, the illustrious writers’-getaway-turned-luxury-resort in Cap d’Antibes, France. The retreat will offer four days of programming designed to address how you look and how you feel—all of it guided by experts at the top of their fields.



From 19 to 22 April, a limited group of just eight guests will check in for a highly personalised regimen of Pilates, nutrition coaching, and signature treatments at the Dior Spa. The Pilates classes, both one-on-one and in group settings, will be taught by Bryony Deery, the movement expert whose app—Pilates by Bryony—has helped countless people start learning the exercise modality. Nutritionist and functional medicine expert Rose Ferguson will be on hand for individual consultations for your relationship with food, mindfulness, and inner well-being. Along with the four spa treatments each attendee will enjoy—which range from facials to full-body scrubs and massages—the goal is that you leave feeling refreshed and empowered.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/RR-Dior-Spa-HDCER-Hotel.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234795241" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/RR-Dior-Spa-HDCER-Hotel.webp 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/RR-Dior-Spa-HDCER-Hotel-300x169.webp 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/RR-Dior-Spa-HDCER-Hotel-768x432.webp 768w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Image courtesy of Oetker Collection</figcaption></figure>



“For Dior, beauty and wellness form an inseparable whole achieved through physical, psychological, and emotional harmony,” the brand says in a statement. “Over the course of this journey, energies are rebalanced through calm breathing, and the senses flourish as they are revealed. Body and mind reconnect with the fundamentals.”



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/RR-Dior-Spa-HDCER-Grounds.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234795242" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/RR-Dior-Spa-HDCER-Grounds.webp 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/RR-Dior-Spa-HDCER-Grounds-300x169.webp 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/RR-Dior-Spa-HDCER-Grounds-768x432.webp 768w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Image courtesy of Oetker Collection</figcaption></figure>



Of course, there are worse places to cure what ails you. The Hotel du Cap-Eden-Roc, ensconced on an idyllic slice of the French Riviera, is a uniquely soothing place to stay—and has been home to a Dior Spa since 2023. Packaged with the very personalised attention, and the barrier to entry is almost understandable. The programme only has space for eight guests. Each spot, which starts at US$27,000 (approximately HK$210,325), can only be booked by calling a Dior Ambassador at (+33) 1 49 53 84 44.

Dior

Dior Spa

Hotel du Cap-Eden-Roc

Oetker Collection

wellness

Wellness Retreat

Dior’s First Wellness Retreat Offers Workout Classes, Nutrition Workshops, and Lots of Spa Time

As January comes to an end, the Year of the Snake is slithering rapidly upon us, and luxury brands are bringing this iconic symbol to life with collections that perfectly balance tradition and sinewy style. Gone are the days of over-the-top designs—this year’s pieces are sleek, sophisticated, and full of character. Whether it’s a bold accessory or a fashionable trinket, these stunning items are a celebration of the snake’s serpentine beauty and unfurling mystery.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="819" height="1024" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Buccellati_LNY_Bubu-Collection-819x1024.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234795136" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Buccellati_LNY_Bubu-Collection-819x1024.jpg 819w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Buccellati_LNY_Bubu-Collection-240x300.jpg 240w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Buccellati_LNY_Bubu-Collection-768x960.jpg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Buccellati_LNY_Bubu-Collection-1229x1536.jpg 1229w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Buccellati_LNY_Bubu-Collection.jpg 1280w" sizes="(max-width: 819px) 100vw, 819px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Image courtesy of Buccellati</figcaption></figure>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Buccellati&nbsp;</h3>



In anticipation and celebration of the Lunar New Year, Italian jewellery house Buccellati has curated a selection of fine accessories and silverware. Buccellati artisans have captured the spirit of the animal in a silver snake figurine that has us beguiled; the lively silver snake ornament, from the Bubu collection, no less, embodies good luck and great fortune.



<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/Bulgari_edt-1024x683.png" alt="" class="wp-image-1234795164" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Bulgari_edt-1024x683.png 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Bulgari_edt-300x200.png 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Bulgari_edt-768x512.png 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Bulgari_edt-1536x1024.png 1536w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Bulgari_edt-2048x1365.png 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Image courtesy of Bulgari</figcaption></figure>



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



Bulgari celebrates the Year of the Snake with the Serpenti Cuore 1968 bag—a tribute to its iconic serpent motif that the noble house has circumnavigated the world with. It features a clever heart-shaped design, with the body of the bag forming one half of a heart, and the snake-shaped golden handle the other. Inspired by house’s heritage, it harkens back to the 1968 Serpenti Harlequin jewellery watch, blending timeless elegance with modern creativity. In fact, there are several pieces—be it watch, jewellery, or leather goods—from the nest that we have taken a shine to.&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/2025/01/Chantel-Shafie-_2400x1600-1024x683.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234795111" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Chantel-Shafie-_2400x1600-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Chantel-Shafie-_2400x1600-300x200.jpg 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Chantel-Shafie-_2400x1600-768x512.jpg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Chantel-Shafie-_2400x1600-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Chantel-Shafie-_2400x1600-2048x1365.jpg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Image courtesy of Chantel Shafie</figcaption></figure>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Chantel Shafie</h3>



A brand closer to home, Hong Kong’s own Chantel Shafie unveiled a diamond-encrusted Medallion Necklace in honour of the Year of the Snake. Part of her Chinese Zodiac Series, the piece features a 24-carat solid gold Hong Kong coin, with a snake curled into the lucky number eight on one side of the face, framed by flowers, while the other showcases iconic Hong Kong skyscrapers and the bauhinia flower. Available with a choice of 18-carat mixed-gauge gold chains.&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/2025/01/compressed-Dior_2400x1600-1024x683.png" alt="" class="wp-image-1234795112" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/compressed-Dior_2400x1600-1024x683.png 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/compressed-Dior_2400x1600-300x200.png 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/compressed-Dior_2400x1600-768x512.png 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/compressed-Dior_2400x1600-1536x1024.png 1536w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/compressed-Dior_2400x1600-2048x1365.png 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Image courtesy of Dior</figcaption></figure>



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



Designer Maria Grazia Chiuri has sent us a special Lunar New Year collection that’s a sparkling take on the holiday, featuring the Dior Astral motif on accessories, knitwear, sneakers, and more. A tip of the hat to Dior’s famed fascination with the stars, the motif combines gold and white tones with celestial elements. For Dior, high fashion is never far from the divine.



<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/Gucci_2400x1600-1024x683.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234795113" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Gucci_2400x1600-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Gucci_2400x1600-300x200.jpg 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Gucci_2400x1600-768x512.jpg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Gucci_2400x1600-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Gucci_2400x1600-2048x1365.jpg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Image courtesy of Gucci</figcaption></figure>



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



For the Year of the Snake, Gucci introduces two striking colour combinations that we are tickled pink by: Gucci Rosso Ancora with pink accents and Gucci Rosso Ancora with blue accents, inspired by the sinuous elegance of the serpent. The collection features the&nbsp;maison’s staple accessories loved by Gen Z, such as Gucci Rosso Ancora patent leather shoes with snake-detailed insoles and the Gucci Re-Web sneakers, each artfully incorporating the serpent emblem.&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/2025/01/Maison-Margiela_2400x1600-1024x683.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234795114" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Maison-Margiela_2400x1600-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Maison-Margiela_2400x1600-300x200.jpg 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Maison-Margiela_2400x1600-768x512.jpg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Maison-Margiela_2400x1600-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Maison-Margiela_2400x1600-2048x1365.jpg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Image courtesy of Maison Margiela</figcaption></figure>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Maison Margiela&nbsp;</h3>



 Maison Margiela rings in the Year of the Snake with its first-ever Lunar New Year launch, focusing on the timely theme of “Renewal.” For a novel twist and turn, this special line reinterprets the snake motif through moon phases, representing new beginnings with elevated streetwear essentials like cotton jerseys, hoodies, sweatshirts, sweatpants, and accessories, emblazoned with a bold, red ouroboros-inspired motif, symbolising the snake’s cycle of rebirth. Look for the striking symbols of prosperity entrenched in design and detail.



<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/MCM_2400x1600-1024x683.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234795115" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/MCM_2400x1600-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/MCM_2400x1600-300x200.jpg 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/MCM_2400x1600-768x512.jpg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/MCM_2400x1600-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/MCM_2400x1600-2048x1365.jpg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Image courtesy of MCM</figcaption></figure>



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



 In celebration of the Year of the Snake, MCM presents a stunning golden python print that is pretty on the nose regarding the zodiac animal of the year; the signature scales in blushing pink, set on leather goods, are a high-voltage touch to the bold print that’s hard to miss. Knitted from soft Japanese bouclé, the collection also features complementing python-print apparel.&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/2025/01/MR-PORTER-_2400x1600-1024x683.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234795116" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/MR-PORTER-_2400x1600-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/MR-PORTER-_2400x1600-300x200.jpg 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/MR-PORTER-_2400x1600-768x512.jpg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/MR-PORTER-_2400x1600-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/MR-PORTER-_2400x1600-2048x1365.jpg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Image courtesy of Mr Porter</figcaption></figure>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Mr Porter</h3>



Mr Porter presents a curated collection of ready-to-wear menswear that embodies the season’s running motif—well, without the obvious one that has snaked through innumerable brands this season. A subtle nod, the selection prominently features contemporary menswear in shades of red, a colour symbolising luck, prosperity, and joy. With its fine fabrication and intricate designs, this is an elevated wardrobe to turn heads during the Lunar New Year festivities.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="776" height="1024" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/02a_Chinese-New-Year-Tiffany-Blue-Box-776x1024.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234795154" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/02a_Chinese-New-Year-Tiffany-Blue-Box-776x1024.jpg 776w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/02a_Chinese-New-Year-Tiffany-Blue-Box-227x300.jpg 227w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/02a_Chinese-New-Year-Tiffany-Blue-Box-768x1014.jpg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/02a_Chinese-New-Year-Tiffany-Blue-Box-1164x1536.jpg 1164w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/02a_Chinese-New-Year-Tiffany-Blue-Box.jpg 1212w" sizes="(max-width: 776px) 100vw, 776px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Image courtesy of Tiffany &amp; Co.</figcaption></figure>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Tiffany &amp; Co.</h3>



Tiffany &amp; Co. celebrates the season with a stunning new collection with an artistic twist. Of course, there are astounding jewellery and watches within the blue box, but one of the pieces we have latched on to is an exquisite ceramic jewellery case crafted from&nbsp;Blanc de Chine porcelain. In collaboration with local artist Oscar Wang, the heart-shaped infinity design merges the snake symbol with the concept of eternal love. It’s so subtle and so perfect; the figure-eight that represents wealth and fortune is beautifully showcased with the signature Tiffany-blue glaze and Chinese knot. This piece beautifully combines art and function, perfect for holding treasures of all kind—a timeless piece that can charm for years to come, not just this serpentine year.&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/2025/01/TUMI_2400x1600-1024x683.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234795117" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/TUMI_2400x1600-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/TUMI_2400x1600-300x200.jpg 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/TUMI_2400x1600-768x512.jpg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/TUMI_2400x1600-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/TUMI_2400x1600-2048x1365.jpg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Image courtesy of Tumi</figcaption></figure>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Tumi&nbsp;</h3>



 Tumi launches the Alpha Bravo collection for the 2025 Lunar New Year, incorporating gold brushstroke designs on functional travel essentials that you can easily spot from a mile away. Be it the Navigation Backpack or the Compass Crossbody, each item is enhanced with a unique snake-shaped luggage tag and a “Lucky Coin” for prosperity. Designed for durability, the Alpha Bravo collection blends aesthetics with everyday functionality. Gold detailing is set against a black base for a brush of elegance, while the lightweight materials ensure optimal performance.



<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/Valextra_2400x1600-1024x683.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234795118" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Valextra_2400x1600-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Valextra_2400x1600-300x200.jpg 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Valextra_2400x1600-768x512.jpg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Valextra_2400x1600-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Valextra_2400x1600-2048x1365.jpg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Image courtesy of Valextra</figcaption></figure>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Valextra&nbsp;</h3>



In celebration of the Lunar New Year, Valextra launched an exclusive capsule collection for the Year of the Snake, and we have been deeply drawn to a signature bag with perforations that perfectly mimic the scales of snake in a unique way. The Iside Micro handbag, crafted in crimson red and Valextra Black Millepunte leather, is stunning. The Snake Charm, created with Valextra’s intarsia technique and available in many hues, is just the right signature to complement the piece.

BVLGARI

Chantel Shafie

Gucci

Maison Margiela

mr porter

Tumi

Valextra

Lunar New Year 2025: 11 Luxury Gifts and Accessories Celebrating the Snake Motif

Picking the right gift for Christmas is a daunting challenge, especially for the person who has everything. But there is a different way: a series of small presents, to be unwrapped each day, and here’s where the trusty advent calendar comes in. No need to wait till Christmas to do a grand unboxing—with these spectacular advent calendars, you can treat your loved ones (and yourself) to something joyful as we cross off the days leading up to the holiday.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="683" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Aman-advent-calendar-2-1024x683.jpeg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234793803" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Aman-advent-calendar-2-1024x683.jpeg 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Aman-advent-calendar-2-300x200.jpeg 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Aman-advent-calendar-2-768x512.jpeg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Aman-advent-calendar-2-1536x1024.jpeg 1536w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Aman-advent-calendar-2-2048x1365.jpeg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>



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



Bring a piece of <a href="https://robbreport.hk/brands/aman/stories" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Aman</a> into your home with this limited-edition advent calendar. Inside a blush-pink collector’s box embellished with geometric patterns and a gold-foiled illustration of snow-capped Mount Fuji, Aman has curated 25 drawers filled with Aman Essentials skincare products, wellness accessories, and fragrances. Among the offerings are the 111Skin x Aman gold algae eye mask, Aman Kyoto essential oil with notes of green tea and cedar to reflect the resort’s surrounding environment, and Amanemu herbal bath sachet. Buy <a href="https://shop.aman.com/aman-advent-calendar-24?lid=g3o4soiqu3mj" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">here</a>.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="683" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Dior-advent-calendar-2-1024x683.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234793805" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Dior-advent-calendar-2-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Dior-advent-calendar-2-300x200.jpg 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Dior-advent-calendar-2-768x512.jpg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Dior-advent-calendar-2-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Dior-advent-calendar-2-2048x1365.jpg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>



Dior



<a href="https://robbreport.hk/brands/dior/stories" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Dior</a>’s Le 30 Montaigne advent calendar is strikingly decorated in homage to the maison’s historic boutique at 30 Avenue Montaigne in Paris, and the miniature gifts inside are equally poised to bring cheer and joy. Expect a collection of fragrances spanning from Miss Dior to Dior Homme and more, lipsticks, nail polishes, eyeshadows, skincare items, and a candle. Buy <a href="https://shop.diorbeauty.hk/en/products/open-the-dior-advent-calendar-le-30-montaigne" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">here</a>.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="683" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Holiday-Advent-Calendar_2-1024x683.jpeg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234793806" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Holiday-Advent-Calendar_2-1024x683.jpeg 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Holiday-Advent-Calendar_2-300x200.jpeg 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Holiday-Advent-Calendar_2-768x512.jpeg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Holiday-Advent-Calendar_2-1536x1024.jpeg 1536w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Holiday-Advent-Calendar_2-2048x1365.jpeg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>



Diptyque



<a href="https://robbreport.hk/brands/diptyque/stories" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Diptyque</a> returns with its highly coveted annual advent calendar; this year’s design, created in collaboration with artist Lucy Sparrow, emulates a festive sewing box, though you’ll not find pin cushions or thread in its compact drawers. Instead, unbox 25 scented candles and personal fragrances, enough to keep the home smelling festive and fantastic all winter long. Buy <a href="https://www.diptyqueparis.com/en_hk/p/advent-calendar-2024.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">here</a>.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="683" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/MTM-Labo-advent-calendar-1024x683.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234793807" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/MTM-Labo-advent-calendar-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/MTM-Labo-advent-calendar-300x200.jpg 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/MTM-Labo-advent-calendar-768x512.jpg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/MTM-Labo-advent-calendar-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/MTM-Labo-advent-calendar-2048x1365.jpg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>



MTM Labo



For the skincare maven in your life, <a href="https://robbreport.hk/brands/mtm-labo/stories" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">MTM Labo</a>’s charming jar-shaped advent calendar will keep them feeling moisturised and looking fresh for the season. Inside, tucked into nine neat drawers, is a range of custom-blended formulations, including eye masks, a cleanser, toner, essence, and cash vouchers for products and spa treatments. Best of all, it comes with two full-size jars of Q10 treatment and hydro lite moisturiser to be personalised at the shop. Buy <a href="https://www.mtmlabo.com/product/2024-mtm-labo-limited-edition-advent-calendar/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">here</a>.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="683" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Festive-2024-Mood-Shot-Chocolate-advent-calendar-1024x683.jpeg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234793808" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Festive-2024-Mood-Shot-Chocolate-advent-calendar-1024x683.jpeg 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Festive-2024-Mood-Shot-Chocolate-advent-calendar-300x200.jpeg 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Festive-2024-Mood-Shot-Chocolate-advent-calendar-768x512.jpeg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Festive-2024-Mood-Shot-Chocolate-advent-calendar-1536x1024.jpeg 1536w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Festive-2024-Mood-Shot-Chocolate-advent-calendar-2048x1365.jpeg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>



The Peninsula Hong Kong



Keeping things classy and classic, <a href="https://robbreport.hk/brands/the-peninsula/stories" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">The Peninsula Hong Kong</a>’s festive chocolate advent calendar is a treasure trove of sweet delights. 12 flavour varieties are part of the collection, covering milk and dark chocolate ganache, ginger ganache, and fine carré chocolates. Buy <a href="https://www.peninsulaboutique.com/hk/en/chocolate-advent-calendar.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">here</a>.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="683" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/2024_HOLIDAY_T2_HOME_KV-01-FULL-1024x683.jpeg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234793809" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/2024_HOLIDAY_T2_HOME_KV-01-FULL-1024x683.jpeg 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/2024_HOLIDAY_T2_HOME_KV-01-FULL-300x200.jpeg 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/2024_HOLIDAY_T2_HOME_KV-01-FULL-768x512.jpeg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/2024_HOLIDAY_T2_HOME_KV-01-FULL-1536x1024.jpeg 1536w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/2024_HOLIDAY_T2_HOME_KV-01-FULL-2048x1365.jpeg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>



Swarovski



An advent calendar from <a href="https://robbreport.hk/brands/Swarovski/stories" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Swarovski</a> is the gift that keeps on giving—because the trinkets inside can be used for years to come! Capturing the excitement of the holiday season with its bright-red, beribboned gift box, the calendar’s windows open to reveal a selection of 25 crystal Christmas tree decorations themed around a holiday locomotive, including train wagons, animals, and festive wintertime emblems like snowflakes and candy canes. Buy <a href="https://www.swarovski.com/en-HK/p-M5653681/Annual-Edition-Advent-Calendar-2024" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">here</a>.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="1024" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Twelfth-Night-Advent-Calendar-「第十二夜」聖誕日曆-2-1024x1024.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234793812" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Twelfth-Night-Advent-Calendar-「第十二夜」聖誕日曆-2-1024x1024.jpg 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Twelfth-Night-Advent-Calendar-「第十二夜」聖誕日曆-2-300x300.jpg 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Twelfth-Night-Advent-Calendar-「第十二夜」聖誕日曆-2-150x150.jpg 150w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Twelfth-Night-Advent-Calendar-「第十二夜」聖誕日曆-2-768x768.jpg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Twelfth-Night-Advent-Calendar-「第十二夜」聖誕日曆-2.jpg 1200w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>



Tea WG



A riff on the well-known Christmas carol and William Shakespeare’s play of the same name, the Twelfth Night advent calendar from <a href="https://robbreport.hk/brands/tea-wg/stories" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Tea WG</a> is a worthy addition to anyone’s kitchen cabinet. Here, a dozen festive blends, housed in colourful collectible tins, include teas of the black, white, green, rooibos varieties. Brew a cuppa and put on Michael Bublé’s Christmas album.

Advent Calendars

Aman

Christmas

Diptyque

MTM Labo

Swarovski

Tea WG

The Peninsula Hong Kong

Robb Report Hong Kong’s Christmas Gift Guide 2024: 7 Advent Calendars to Buy

The numbers are in—according to reports from&nbsp;The&nbsp;Washington Post,&nbsp;Euromonitor International, and Circana, not only has the multi-billion-dollar behemoth that is the fragrance industry recorded an august two-figure growth in 2023 as new designer bottles drop and reimagined classic scents return to the shelves, but sales of the US$64.4 billion (HK$502.25 billion) global fragrance market have been on a steady incline this year, too.



The&nbsp;Post’s analysis of this boom points to fragrance as the fastest-growing category in the beauty sector, thanks to men and first-time buyers driving the rise in sales and revenue of brands the likes of Chanel, YSL, Dior, Le Labo, Jo Malone, and Tom Ford, to name a few.&nbsp;



Come September, the biggest names in the field—Jo Malone, Maison Francis Kurkdjian, Chanel, and Valentino—will dispense their latest scents. In the meantime, taking top notes from the above-mentioned reports, we knocked on the doors of the most elite aromatic designers in the hopes of getting a whiff of what’s already in store this summer. From the classics (Tom Ford) to the fashionable (Dior and Versace) and the novel (Brunello Cucinelli ventures into scents for the first time), the following fragrances have us swooning.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Brunello Cucinelli</h3>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="726" height="1024" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Pack_Cucinelli-Insieme-726x1024.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234790129" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Pack_Cucinelli-Insieme-726x1024.jpg 726w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Pack_Cucinelli-Insieme-213x300.jpg 213w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Pack_Cucinelli-Insieme-768x1084.jpg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Pack_Cucinelli-Insieme-1089x1536.jpg 1089w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Pack_Cucinelli-Insieme.jpg 1134w" sizes="(max-width: 726px) 100vw, 726px" /></figure>



Just this past May, Brunello Cucinelli unveiled the Brunello Cucinelli Pour Femme and Brunello Cucinelli Pour Homme fragrances at a star-studded bash at Regent Hong Kong. Both scents were inspired by the Umbria region in Italy, with a touch of aromatic splendour and a wisp of quiet luxury. A new chapter in the story of the brand—the&nbsp;<a href="https://robbreport.com/style/menswear/brunello-cucinelli-70th-birthday-celebration-italy-1234891575/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">personal and business successes</a>&nbsp;of Brunello Cucinelli were jointly celebrated just a few months ago—the men’s fragrance is a refined blend of angelica, black pepper, ginger, and sage, courtesy of a fruitful collaboration with French master perfumer Olivier Cresp.



Shop&nbsp;<a href="https://shop.brunellocucinelli.com/en-hk/fragrances/mens-fragrances/?_gl=1*1po49qj*_up*MQ..&amp;gclid=Cj0KCQjwiOy1BhDCARIsADGvQnCPA2WSXgogL-1rQTr2PoivNmlfU77uFBxAoN1aOKUeuuDFaa_rOWkaAjwrEALw_wcB&amp;gclsrc=aw.ds" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">here</a>.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Tom Ford</h3>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="732" height="1024" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/993364_NA_1__77683-732x1024.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234790159" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/993364_NA_1__77683-732x1024.jpg 732w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/993364_NA_1__77683-214x300.jpg 214w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/993364_NA_1__77683-768x1075.jpg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/993364_NA_1__77683-1097x1536.jpg 1097w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/993364_NA_1__77683.jpg 1143w" sizes="(max-width: 732px) 100vw, 732px" /></figure>



If the past decade is anything to go by—with the release of wallet-distilling perfumes like Bitter Peach, Lost Cherry, Velvet Orchid, and other magical potions with vivid titles—exceptional scents are to be expected from Tom Ford. As per an early report by JP Morgan, Tom Ford fragrances help to propel the brand to among the top 10 most prestigious in China based on sales, a huge part of the company’s achievements, and the latest drop can certainly only strengthen that sweet smell of success.&nbsp;



Released just seven months ago in the US, you can now find the latest unisex eau de parfum Vanilla Sex at Tom Ford Beauty in Hong Kong. Its top notes are vanilla tincture, vanilla absolute, floral notes, bitter almond, sandalwood, tonka bean absolute, and Ultravanil—the ingredients read like a baking recipe, which is why it is only fitting that the scent itself has a florid, almost pastry-like essence and resonance. Vanilla Sex is light, airy, and quite frankly, delicious.



Shop&nbsp;<a href="https://www.tomfordbeauty.com/product/vanilla-sex-eau-de-parfum" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">here</a>&nbsp;or at Lane Crawford&nbsp;<a href="https://www.lanecrawford.com.hk/product/tom-ford/vanilla-sex-eau-de-parfum-50ml/_/EHR876/product.lc" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">here</a>.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Dior&nbsp;</h3>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="683" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Dior-LCP-Summer-Eden-Roc-02_LR-1024x683.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234790246" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Dior-LCP-Summer-Eden-Roc-02_LR-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Dior-LCP-Summer-Eden-Roc-02_LR-300x200.jpg 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Dior-LCP-Summer-Eden-Roc-02_LR-768x512.jpg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Dior-LCP-Summer-Eden-Roc-02_LR-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Dior-LCP-Summer-Eden-Roc-02_LR-2048x1365.jpg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>



Fashion history repeatedly proves that when Dior does something, it does it right. Instead of confining itself to just one perfume, the La Collection Privée line&nbsp;features three fragrances to encapsulate the essence of summer. The limited-edition scents are housed in couture cases adorned with the Dioriviera 2024&nbsp;toile de Jouy&nbsp;motif: Dioriviera in emerald green, Eden-Roc in yellow, and a blood orange hue for the floral Jasmin des Anges.



To the jet-setting crowd, the unisex eau de parfum trio will ignite memories of the south of France, its scents vividly bringing back memories from the region—and its harmony of top notes are a reminder of Dior’s ideal of&nbsp;la dolce vita&nbsp;and celebration of the season. As Jasmin des Anges’s name suggests, the fragrance has the heady charisma of a jasmine bouquet, blended with apricot nectar and honey. Dioriviera’s dance between fig and rose has a more feminine mystique, while the Eden-Roc’s gentle sophistication is a tribute to the pleasure-indulging Cap Eden-Roc location, just south of Antibes on the Côte d’Azur.



Shop&nbsp;<a href="https://shop.dior.com.sg/collections/la-collection-privee-summer" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">here</a>.



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



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="819" height="1024" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Versace-Eros-Energy_3-819x1024.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234790125" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Versace-Eros-Energy_3-819x1024.jpg 819w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Versace-Eros-Energy_3-240x300.jpg 240w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Versace-Eros-Energy_3-768x960.jpg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Versace-Eros-Energy_3-1229x1536.jpg 1229w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Versace-Eros-Energy_3.jpg 1280w" sizes="(max-width: 819px) 100vw, 819px" /></figure>



The latest adverts from Versace featuring actor Channing Tatum, returning to his roots as a model, have <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-Kt48vT99u8" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">spread online</a> and on billboards across cities overnight, causing quite the media stir. As the eau de parfum for men, Eros Energy—part three of the existing Eros and Eros Flame family of fragrances—lands on our storied shelves, clips of Tatum chasing after an arrow as the star of the new Versace Eros campaign have gone viral.



Like in most perfume adverts, the storyboard is theatrical, with many flashes of striking visuals, overwrought masculinity, and a questionable respect of physics. But how’s the scent? Pretty good, in fact. Perfect for the season, the designer drop has soothing citrus top notes of blood orange, lime, grapefruit, lemon, Sicilian bergamot, and mandarin orange. Fit for olfactory seduction, the base notes are musk, patchouli, and oakmoss, while the middle notes are white amber, pink pepper, and blackcurrant. The yellow bottle is in line with Versace’s signature Greca and Medusa motifs with the crowning glory of a bronze-coloured cap reminding one that it’s a jewel to possess&nbsp;Eros Energy&nbsp;this sizzling season.&nbsp;



Coming soon. All images courtesy of their respective brands.

Aroma

Brunello Cucinelli

Colognes

latest releases

Perfumes

Perfumes 2024

Scents

Summer Scents

Tom Ford

4 Stellar Summer Scents, From Tom Ford and Brunello Cucinelli to Dior and Versace

Ningxia is now China’s largest wine-producing region, with 253 wineries making about 140 million bottles a year. The Fourth China International Wine Culture and Tourism Expo is scheduled for 9–11 August in Yinchuan, Ningxia’s capital, and over 60 foreign wineries are signed up. Expect big names from Australia, Chile, France, Italy, and Spain.



Savvy oenophiles visiting Yinchuan then, or at any time, should head for the 409-key Kempinski Hotel Yinchuan—its top suite is the three-bedroom, 330-square-metre Presidential Suite. In the hotel, the Grand Chai wine room has two PDRs (private dining rooms) exclusively pouring such Chateaux labels as Haut-Brion, Lafite, Margaux, and Pétrus, with more than 3,500 bottles of French wine in total—the most expensive is a 1995 Chateau Pétrus, a snip at HK$115,000. During the expo, says hotel GM Patrick Ritter, the hotel will offer Bounties of Wine Country dinners, featuring five courses paired with such local wines as Jia Beilan, Kanan, and Silver Heights.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="683" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Fiamma_Pizza-Chamber-1024x683.jpeg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234789973" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Fiamma_Pizza-Chamber-1024x683.jpeg 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Fiamma_Pizza-Chamber-300x200.jpeg 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Fiamma_Pizza-Chamber-768x512.jpeg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Fiamma_Pizza-Chamber-1536x1024.jpeg 1536w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Fiamma_Pizza-Chamber-2048x1365.jpeg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Fiamma at Capella Singapore welcomed consultant Mauro Colagreco to host a special menu paired with Veneto wines. Image courtesy of Capella Singapore</figcaption></figure>



Pair wines with big-name chefs and there’s double success, as Fiamma at Capella Singapore knows only too well. Its regular special dinners are clearly promoted: the latest, which took place on 18 July, paired Fiamma consultant Mauro Colagreco with Veneto wines, resulting in dishes like traditional fresh pea risotto with Tedeschi Amarone Valpolicella Marne 180 and tiramisú with Tedeschi Vapitel Recioto Fontana (both wines vintage 2019).



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="683" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/MVC240500991-Gran-Hotel-Mas-den-Bruno-The-Lobby-1024x683.jpeg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234789873" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/MVC240500991-Gran-Hotel-Mas-den-Bruno-The-Lobby-1024x683.jpeg 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/MVC240500991-Gran-Hotel-Mas-den-Bruno-The-Lobby-300x200.jpeg 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/MVC240500991-Gran-Hotel-Mas-den-Bruno-The-Lobby-768x512.jpeg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/MVC240500991-Gran-Hotel-Mas-den-Bruno-The-Lobby-1536x1024.jpeg 1536w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/MVC240500991-Gran-Hotel-Mas-den-Bruno-The-Lobby-2048x1365.jpeg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">The lobby at Mas d’en Bruno featuring Ben Jakober’s circular clock. Image courtesy of Mas d’en Bruno</figcaption></figure>



Wines are also a big deal at Mas d’en Bruno, a sensational new art-filled winery hotel in Priorat, only a 90-minute drive from Barcelona through rolling vineyards. David Stein, Mas d’en Bruno’s man-of-the-world owner, has included pieces from his own collection. One is a three-foot-wide circular clock-with-fringe by Ben Jakober. It hangs on a lobby wall and its peripheral fringe—formed of real books held to the clock by their spines—rotates, the pages flapping as it turns. It’s art, and it’s fun.



It sounds as if the next Art Basel Hong Kong, slated for 28–30 March 2025, will have fun retail. Art Basel’s global CEO Noah Horowitz confirms there will be a boutique, with Unlimited clothing, and trinkets like badges with quips of “See you in Miami Beach.” Art Basel Hong Kong 2025 will, deliberately, coincide with the inaugural Photofair Hong Kong, organised by Scott Gray, who launched the concept in Shanghai.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="683" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Exterior-1024x683.jpeg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234790176" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Exterior-1024x683.jpeg 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Exterior-300x200.jpeg 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Exterior-768x512.jpeg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Exterior-1536x1024.jpeg 1536w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Exterior-2048x1365.jpeg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">InterContinental Shanghai Wonderland is built into the side of a cliff. Image courtesy of InterContinental Shanghai Wonderland</figcaption></figure>



Shanghai has one hotel that is attracting a lot of international interest. InterContinental Shanghai Wonderland in Sheshan, half an hour from Shanghai’s main rail station, isn’t the first hotel to be built in a former mine—Sunway Resort just outside Kuala Lumpur has that honour. But at Wonderland, the architect, Martin Jochman—who did Dubai’s iconic Burj Al-Arab—has produced another wow, an upside-down hotel, with arrival and reception at the top. The best views, says hotel GM Richard Hng, are from the sixth-floor Chairman’s Suite, and the best seafood is at the 330-room hotel’s Mr Fisher restaurant—under water.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="683" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/The-Beverly-Hill-Hotel-Dior-boutique-sun-seating-HR-Dorchester-Collection-1024x683.jpeg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234789876" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/The-Beverly-Hill-Hotel-Dior-boutique-sun-seating-HR-Dorchester-Collection-1024x683.jpeg 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/The-Beverly-Hill-Hotel-Dior-boutique-sun-seating-HR-Dorchester-Collection-300x200.jpeg 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/The-Beverly-Hill-Hotel-Dior-boutique-sun-seating-HR-Dorchester-Collection-768x512.jpeg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/The-Beverly-Hill-Hotel-Dior-boutique-sun-seating-HR-Dorchester-Collection-1536x1024.jpeg 1536w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/The-Beverly-Hill-Hotel-Dior-boutique-sun-seating-HR-Dorchester-Collection-2048x1365.jpeg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Dioriviera pops up at The Beverly Hills Hotel for the summer. Image courtesy of The Beverly Hills Hotel</figcaption></figure>



The best brand for travelling A-list fashionistas these days could well be Dior. Pop-up boutiques at Ember Beach Club at One&amp;Only Desaru Coast and a host of other leisure hotspots are showing Travel with Dioriviera collections. These have soft fern or salmon-coloured toile de Jouy Sauvage and toile de Jouy Soleil pieces by Dior’s global creative director, Maria Grazia Chiuri. Far away in Beverly Hills, the stars-favourite Beverly Hills Hotel, part of Dorchester Collection, has similarly allowed its famous poolside, and spa, to be Dior-ised, temporarily. The world is becoming one small place.

Art Basel Hong Kong

Dorchester Collection

InterContinental Shanghai Wonderland

Kempinski Hotel Yinchuan

Mas d’en Bruno

Mauro Colagreco

Ningxia

The Beverly Hills Hotel

Discover China’s Largest Wine-Producing Region, Celebrate Summer With Dioriviera, and Other Things to Bookmark this August

Fashion

Menswear

Summer 2024

10 Best Summer Menswear Looks, Trends, and Accessories for Your Season in the Sun

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full is-resized"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1000" height="563" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/1.-Flexjet-Global-HQ-Exterior-Rampside.jpg.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234794824" style="width:839px;height:auto" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/1.-Flexjet-Global-HQ-Exterior-Rampside.jpg.webp 1000w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/1.-Flexjet-Global-HQ-Exterior-Rampside.jpg-300x169.webp 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/1.-Flexjet-Global-HQ-Exterior-Rampside.jpg-768x432.webp 768w" sizes="(max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Fractional ownership firms like <a href="https://robbreport.com/tag/flexjet/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Flexjet</a> are seeing growth and making investments in new aircraft and infrastructure. Flexjet’s new US$50 million (around HK$389.25 million) headquarters.  Image courtesy of Flexjet</figcaption></figure>



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

Aviation

Business jet

corporate jet

private

Private Jet

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

Four Seasons

Private Jet Trips

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



Sounds like quite the upgrade.

Heathrow

London

Private Terminal

The Windsor

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

boom supersonic

Boom’s Supersonic Jet Just Broke the Sound Barrier

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



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



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



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



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



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



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

delta

Delta airlines

Luxury Travel

Delta Is Pulling Out All the Stops to Woo Luxury Travellers

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

burgundy

The Domaine

Wine

Wine Column

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

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



Curious fact: Egon’s son is called Egon, his father was called Egon, his grandfather was called Egon, his great-grandfather was called Egon (and even his now-deceased Irish Wolfhound was called Egon). This highlights the importance of continuity at the estate and how winemaking is so deeply rooted in the Müller family over many generations.&nbsp;



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="683" height="1024" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Copy-of-IMG_4174.jpeg-683x1024.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234794872" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Copy-of-IMG_4174.jpeg-683x1024.webp 683w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Copy-of-IMG_4174.jpeg-200x300.webp 200w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Copy-of-IMG_4174.jpeg.webp 709w" sizes="(max-width: 683px) 100vw, 683px" /></figure>



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

Best Fine Wine

Golden Vines

Wein keiser

Wine P:roduer

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

One small step for man, one giant addition to your treasure trove of collectibles.



The only photo of <a href="https://robbreport.com/tag/neil-armstrong/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Neil Armstrong</a> on the moon is heading to <a href="https://robbreport.com/tag/auction/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">auction</a> next month via <a href="https://robbreport.com/tag/bonhams/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Bonhams</a>. The sale, <a href="https://www.bonhams.com/auction/30739/for-all-mankind-the-artistic-legacy-of-early-space-exploration-victor-martin-malburet-collection/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">For All Mankind: </a>The Artistic Legacy of Early Space Exploration, will include 449 other NASA photographs—some of which are <a href="https://robbreport.com/motors/aviation/rare-apollo-11-photograph-astronaut-neil-armstrong-on-the-moon-auction-1234777029/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">previously unknown</a>—from the collection of Victor Martin-Malburet, a space historian who uncovered some of the rare snapshots in archives and collections of former NASA engineers over 25 years.



Taken by Buzz Aldrin, the second person to walk on the moon, the Armstrong photo shows the famed astronaut standing beside the Lunar Module Eagle, which is what took the crew into space on <a href="https://robbreport.com/shelter/art-collectibles/bonhams-auctioning-lunar-samples-neil-armstrong-apollo-11-1234672584/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">the Apollo 11 mission</a>. Expected to fetch between US$20,000 and US$27,000 (HK$155,495 and HK$209,915), the image was discovered 17 years after the 1969 historic trip made Armstrong the first man to walk on the moon.



The astronaut was also behind the camera on the Apollo 11 mission. The first snapshot Armstrong took on the lunar surface is also up for grabs in the auction, estimated to hammer down for between US$7,600 and US$11,000 (HK$59,090 and HK$85,520). After taking that famed first step, the astronaut was supposed to collect a contingency lunar sample in case of an emergency return, Bonhams says. Instead, Armstrong decided to take the first photo on the moon.



<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/firstphotographtakenbyneilarmstrong.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234796216" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/firstphotographtakenbyneilarmstrong.webp 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/firstphotographtakenbyneilarmstrong-300x169.webp 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/firstphotographtakenbyneilarmstrong-768x432.webp 768w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">The first photo taken by Armstrong on the moon. Image courtesy of Bonhams</figcaption></figure>



Another notable memento up for grabs is the first photograph of Earthrise, which is an image that shows both the Earth and part of the moon’s surface. Astronaut William Anders took the black-and-white snapshot during the Apollo 8 mission on Christmas Eve in December 1968; it’s expected to fetch anywhere from to US$13,000 to US$19,000 (HK$101,075 and HK$147,725).



“The Apollo astronauts captured humanity’s greatest dream through their cameras,” Sabine Cornette de Saint Cyr, head of the Bonhams sale, said in a press statement. “Their photographs will forever symbolise the beginning of our expansion into the universe. Today, space exploration is once again a burning topic. It was only natural for Bonhams Cornette de Saint Cyr to present these undisputed masterpieces of the 20th century to collectors, as they continue to fascinate and enrich our imagination.”



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="681" height="383" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/firstphotoofearthrise.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234796217" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/firstphotoofearthrise.webp 681w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/firstphotoofearthrise-300x169.webp 300w" sizes="(max-width: 681px) 100vw, 681px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">The first Earthrise photograph, taken by William Anders. Image courtesy of Bonhams</figcaption></figure>



Alongside these historic images, other space collector’s items going under the hammer include the first selfie in space, taken by Buzz Aldrin on the 1966 Gemini 12 mission (US$8,700 to US$13,000/HK$67,645 and HK$101,080); the first photograph taken in space by humans, which was captured by John Glenn during Friendship 7’s first orbit in 1962 (US$4,400 to US$6,700/HK$34,210 and HK$52,095); and the first snapshot of a human in space, taken by James McDivitt during the first American spacewalk on Gemini 4 (US$1,600 to US$2,200/HK$12,440 and HK$17,105).



For All Mankind: The Artistic Legacy of Early Space Exploration will be held online from 14 to 28 April in Paris, so you won’t have to wait long to hopefully add the memorabilia to your collection.



You could take some stellar space photographs for yourself soon enough, thanks to an wide variety of <a href="https://robbreport.com/motors/aviation/space-tourism-race-rockets-balloons-supersonic-jets-1235684976/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">space-tourism programmes</a> that are on the horizon. <a href="https://robbreport.com/motors/aviation/virgin-galactic-delta-spacecraft-first-flight-planned-1236263298/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Virgin Galactic’s new six-person spacecraft</a> is gearing up to take civilians to space in the fall of 2026, while <a href="https://robbreport.com/motors/aviation/space-perspective-space-tourism-balloon-test-1235867135/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Space Perspective’s Spaceship Neptune</a> balloon also hopes to have consumers hop aboard next year. And Jeff Bezos’s <a href="https://robbreport.com/motors/aviation/billionaire-space-race-blue-origins-launch-1235617433/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Blue Origin</a> also has its eyes set on the stars. Best get your <a href="https://robbreport.com/gear/cameras/gallery/leicas-m11-d-camera-review-1235999476/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">camera</a> ready, then.

Apollo 11

Auction

Bonhams

Buzz Aldrin

Neil Armstrong

Photographs

The Only Photo of Neil Armstrong on the Moon and Other Famed Space Images Are Headed to Auction

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

Art Central

Art Central 2025

Enoch Cheng

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

Katipunan

M Residences

M Residences Katipunan

property

Real Estate

VCDC

Victor Consunji Development Corporation

M Residences Unveils Its Fifth Development in Katipunan

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



All images courtesy of their respective brands.

Chinese New Year Drinks

Hennessy

Lunar New Year drinks

Penfolds

Remy Martin

special edition

Yay of the Snake

year of the snake drinks

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

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



In the spring of 1971, <a href="https://www.rs500albums.com/50-1/14" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">the Rolling Stones</a> fled the UK to avoid its 93 per cent tax rate. The band didn’t want the government seizing its assets, so all four members decamped to France. Not to let their money problems derail their musical ambitions, the famed quartet decided to use the time as tax exiles to record its 10th studio album in the basement of Nellcôte, a villa that guitarist Keith Richards rented in Villefranche-sur-Mer, near Nice. The unusual studio served as the birthplace for the aptly titled Exile on Main St, which rocketed to the No. 1 spot worldwide and is now considered one of the group’s greatest albums. And while the Rolling Stones’ villa recording is many decades in the past, you can now replicate that recording process with an experience that lets you live out your own <a href="https://robbreport.com/tag/music/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">music</a> dreams—perhaps to an equally fantastic reception.



<a href="https://robbreport.com/thevault/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">The Vault</a> by Robb Report is now offering you and seven confidants (or bandmates) a rare chance to write and produce your own song alongside music-industry pros. Jim Scott, a producer with four decades of experience, has worked with rock legends ranging from Tom Petty (on his Wildflowers album) to the Foo Fighters and the Chicks, earning a total of seven Grammys throughout his career. David Garza, meanwhile, has written over 400 songs—and co-wrote hundreds more—since 1987, notching a Grammy for his work with Fiona Apple on her 2020 album Fetch the Bolt Cutters.



Now, the duo is ready to share that experience and craftsmanship with you. You’ll spend five days with Garza and Scott on a luxe property in <a href="https://robbreport.com/tag/ireland/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Ireland</a>, where you can rock out, riff, and record with the pair as they show off the skills it takes to craft a professional-level hit.



Garza sees the project as a kind of musical provocation. “I feel that it’s almost like a dare, this thing we’re doing,” he tells Robb Report. “I think it’s like we’re throwing down the gauntlet and saying, ‘Is anyone out there in the Robb Report community, does anyone think they’re up for this challenge? It’s like a sky-dive thing, like, come along with us, and we will make this happen.”



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/Davidgarza_ShervinLainez-1024x576.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234796148" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/Davidgarza_ShervinLainez-1024x576.webp 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/Davidgarza_ShervinLainez-300x169.webp 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/Davidgarza_ShervinLainez-768x432.webp 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/Davidgarza_ShervinLainez.webp 1200w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">David Garza. Image courtesy of Shervin Lainez</figcaption></figure>



The Emerald Isle digs aren’t too shabby, either. You’ll be recording at the&nbsp;<a rel="noreferrer noopener" href="https://www.lissardestate.ie/en/" target="_blank">Liss Ard Estate</a>, a luxe hotel nestled within the lush countryside of West Cork. Here, the modern country-style estate is surrounded by cypresses and century-old cedar. And don’t worry about distractions: You and your crew will enjoy a complete buy-out of the property’s Lake House accommodation. Naturally, breakfast and lunch each day are included so you can stay focused on music making. There are also three nights of scrumptious dinners, all featuring in-season produce from the garden and meat and fish from local producers.



Bringing a studio to a Georgian mansion makes this experience all the more unique—especially when you’re working with vintage and modern recording equipment handpicked by Scott himself. That includes vintage Neumann U87s that have been used by the Chicks, Crowded House, and others, and his 1964 Fender Jaguar, which was used by the Red Hot Chili Peppers and other musicians. “We’re basically creating a studio on a desert island, and it’s going to be like as close to paradise in the studio as you can get,” Garza says.



Whether you’re interested in creating a song for an anniversary with your loved one, or you just want to tackle a tune that’s been banging around in your brain for a bit, Scott and Garza are game to help you bring it life. “It’s just guiding through the process and encouraging them to greatness, whatever they’re going to do,” Scott says.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/jimscott-1024x576.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234796149" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/jimscott-1024x576.webp 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/jimscott-300x169.webp 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/jimscott-768x432.webp 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/jimscott.webp 1200w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Jim Scott at work in the studio. Image courtesy of Jim Scott</figcaption></figure>



That greatness, for Scott, begins with the musical ensemble. He likes to start the process by getting a band or musicians to play a song altogether—basically, making the record sound about 80 per cent like what the final version of the record will be. From there, he may add in extra details, such as strings, horns, or perhaps background vocals, depending on what the song needs. Luckily, Scott, who has spent decades in the music industry, has a Rolodex of studio professionals he can tap.



“I have a nice thick book of wonderful, beautiful musicians who would participate if we needed them,” he says.



For his part, Garza got his start in Austin’s music scene in the 1980s and 1990s before moving to Los Angeles. With that kind of in-the-trenches experience, he can help all levels of musicianship. If you’re perhaps less knowledgeable about songwriting’s ins and outs, he can help you find the right bridge to perfect your song, or tell you what a 3/4 Waltz looks like. But no matter where you start, Garza says the process is really about making your song feel right for you.



“You’re basically measuring this person and fitting them with a bespoke song, you’re creating something that’s like a dress or a suit for someone, [like] a master tailor,” he says.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/LissArd_WillPryce-1024x576.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234796150" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/LissArd_WillPryce-1024x576.webp 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/LissArd_WillPryce-300x169.webp 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/LissArd_WillPryce-768x432.webp 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/LissArd_WillPryce.webp 1200w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">You’ll be staying at the Liss Ard Estate, West Cork’s toniest hotel. Image courtesy of Will Pryce</figcaption></figure>



Scott offers some sage advice of his own: “You know, music’s like dancing. You gotta let loose a little bit.”



Once you’ve let loose and recorded your masterpiece, you’ll get to celebrate your achievement: a wrap party at the Liss Ard just for your new tune, where you and your guests can revel in your creation before you head back to reality.



Your song won’t be the first musical success for Scott and Garza, of course: The duo has collaborated on plenty of award-winning projects over the years. Those experiences have only burnished their respect for one another.



“This is like sitting down with someone like Martin Scorsese if you’re a filmmaker,” Garza says of the chance to work with Scott. The seven-time Grammy winner echoes the sentiment of collaborating with Garza: “He’s just the sweetest, [the] most patient, and he just always gives you what you want. And it’s so important to have somebody with a good attitude who can also really solve a problem. If we need something special, he can come up with something special.”



And when you get the chance to record your (future No. 1) hit, make sure not to hold anything back.



“Songs are equal-opportunity dreams,” Garza says. “They’re there for writing, and they’re just waiting to be written.”



US$99,000 (HK$769,580), travel to and from Ireland not included. <a href="https://robbreport.com/thevault/grammy-musicians-song-production/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Enquire now</a>.

David Garza

Jim Scott

Robb Report

The Vault

These Grammy Award-Winning Musicians Will Help You Write and Produce Your Own Song

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



All images courtesy of Rosewood Hong Kong.

Rosewood Front Row

Rosewood Hong Kong

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



Tel: (+852) 2313 2313



All images courtesy of Regent Hong Kong.

Kitan In

Regent Hong Kong

The Steak House

Wagyu

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

Aston Martin

hybrid

Supercar

Aston Martin Just Unveiled Its First Plug-In Hybrid Supercar

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

Genesis

Hypercar

motosport

This New Genesis Hypercar Will Race at Le Mans in 2026

Part of the crisis of the ongoing transition to electric vehicles, <a href="https://robbreport.com/motors/cars/manual-transmission-electric-vehicles-future-1234774864/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">some enthusiasts say</a>, is that EVs are less fun to drive, in part because there’s no use in an EV for a manual transmission. Those enthusiasts might not like faux manual transmissions any better, but <a href="https://robbreport.com/tag/lexus/">Lexus</a> is the latest <a href="https://robbreport.com/motors/cars/toyota-gr-performance-ev-manual-transmission-1234857178/">automaker to give it a try</a> in its all-electric RZ <a href="https://robbreport.com/tag/suv/">SUV</a>.



The RZ has a feature called Interactive Manual Drive for a “manual-like control of drive force for an engaging driving experience,” <a href="https://global.toyota/en/newsroom/lexus/42372076.html?padid=ag478_from_kv" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Lexus says</a>. The feature will synchronise acceleration and deceleration with sound to simulate driving a manual car, which could increase one’s driving pleasure. Interactive Manual Drive is among two new interesting features for the RZ, which was first introduced in 2023. There is also a yoke instead of a steering wheel, part of the car’s steer-by-wire system, which is intended to improve manoeuvrability by varying the car’s steering response at different speeds.



The 2026 RZ will perhaps draw more attention than its predecessor, which offered just 201 horsepower in its base model, or 308 horsepower in its more exciting version, numbers that have been upped to 221 horsepower and 376 horsepower, and 402 horsepower in the dual-motor top trim RZ550e F Sport. Range, meanwhile, could be over 300 miles, though official numbers haven’t been released. The Lexus RZ is a basic electric car, in other words, befitting a marque and parent company (Toyota) that have been reluctant to embrace electric cars.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/028-e1741790157747-1024x576.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234796132" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/028-e1741790157747-1024x576.webp 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/028-e1741790157747-300x169.webp 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/028-e1741790157747-768x432.webp 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/028-e1741790157747.webp 1421w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Image courtesy of Lexus</figcaption></figure>



Steer-by-wire and the faux manual transmission should add something to think about, though, and Lexus says that it plans further refinements.



“Moving forward, Lexus will continue to push the boundaries of its signature driving experience by seamlessly integrating cutting-edge hardware and software,” Lexus’s chief engineer Shinya Ito&nbsp;<a rel="noreferrer noopener" href="https://global.toyota/en/newsroom/lexus/42372076.html?padid=ag478_from_kv" target="_blank">said in a statement</a>.



The faux manual transmission and its manufactured sounds to match acceleration and deceleration will be the noise of an EV,&nbsp;<a rel="noreferrer noopener" href="https://www.caranddriver.com/news/a64077258/lexus-rz-update-details/" target="_blank">according to&nbsp;Car and Driver</a>, and not the roar of an internal combustion engine. The faux manual transmission will have eight different “speeds.”



From a performance perspective, 402 horsepower and faux manual transmission aren’t the stuff track dreams are made of, but they are a nod to the fact that many drivers want something more out of EVs than simple push-button operation. Honda, for example, <a href="https://robbreport.com/motors/cars/honda-testing-manual-transmission-for-upcoming-evs-1235928219/">is looking into similar technology</a>, though other automakers haven’t been as keen, perhaps in part because demand for EVs has recently slowed.



It also hasn’t been confirmed if the faux manual transmission in the Lexus RZ will make it to the U.S., as Lexus said for now that it is only planned for the version of the car being sold in Europe. We can only hope, though, because the more ideas the merrier in the still-evolving EV space.



Click <a href="https://robbreport.com/motors/cars/gallery/new-lexus-rz-photos-1236355772/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">here</a> for more photos of the new Lexus RZ.

Lexus

RZ550E

This New All-Electric Lexus SUV Has a Faux Manual Transmission for Shifting Gears

The details are what set <a href="https://robbreport.com/tag/bentley/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Bentley</a>’s latest one-off build apart from the pack.



The British marque has just unveiled a new example of the <a href="https://robbreport.com/motors/cars/bentleys-new-coachbuilt-batar-convertible-w-1235609123/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Batur</a> called “The Black Rose.” The coachbuilt grand tourer is the first to feature 3-D-printed solid rose-gold trim.



Bentleys don’t get much more exclusive than the Batur. Introduced in 2023, the exquisite coupé, like the <a href="https://robbreport.com/motors/cars/1-of-12-bentley-bacalar-roadster-auction-may-1235582059/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">open-top Bacalar</a> before it, is an ultra-exclusive version of the <a href="https://robbreport.com/motors/cars/first-drive-hybrid-bentley-continental-gt-speed-1235631871/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Continental GT</a>. At the time of its unveiling, the automaker announced that its <a href="https://robbreport.com/tag/bespoke/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">bespoke</a> division, Mulliner, would build just 18 examples of the two-door, each of which would be designed with the input of its owner.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/blackrose01-1024x576.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234796139" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/blackrose01-1024x576.webp 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/blackrose01-300x169.webp 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/blackrose01-768x432.webp 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/blackrose01.webp 1200w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Bentley Batur Black Rose. Image courtesy of Bentley</figcaption></figure>



The Black Rose features a striking colour scheme you won’t find on any other Batur. The lower half of the vehicle is done up in metallic black, while the upper body is finished in glossy Beluga. It’s the trim that’s especially noteworthy, though. Satin Rose Gold accents adorn the grille, hood, intakes, side skirts, and mirror caps. You’ll even find traces of the colour on the 22-inch gloss black wheels.



The glitzy hue can also be found inside the vehicle. Bentley says that 210 grams of 18-carat rose gold is present throughout the Black Rose’s decadent cabin, including on the dashboard, steering wheel, and drive mode selector. The trim was applied via a 3-D printing technique that the automaker claims has never previously been used on an automobile. Other premium materials found in the interior include Beluga leather, charcoal grey tweed fabric, and metallic black-painted veneers.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/blackrose07-1024x576.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234796140" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/blackrose07-1024x576.webp 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/blackrose07-300x169.webp 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/blackrose07-768x432.webp 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/blackrose07.webp 1200w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Inside the Batur Black Rose. Image courtesy of Bentley</figcaption></figure>



Bentley’s vehicle announcement doesn’t include any mechanical details, but previous examples of the Batur have been powered by the marque’s <a href="https://robbreport.com/motors/cars/bentley-stop-production-w-12-engine-1234810576/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">soon-to-be-extinct twin-turbocharged 6.0-litre W-12</a>. The brawny mill is mated to an eight-speed dual-clutch gearbox and makes 730 hp and 737 ft lbs of torque. Thanks to all that oomph, the unnamed owner can accelerate from zero to 60 in 3.3 seconds and reach a top speed of 209 mph.



Unfortunately, the Black Rose is a one-off, so if you want a Bentley, looks like it you’ll probably have to commission it from the automaker yourself. If the car does ever wind up on the secondary market, expect to pay its US$2.1 million (HK$16.32 million) sticker price or more to add it to your collection.



Click <a href="https://robbreport.com/motors/cars/gallery/photos-one-off-bentley-batur-black-rose-1236355829" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">here</a> for more photos of the one-off Bentley Batur Black Rose.

Batur

Bentley

Mulliner

The Black Rose

Bentley’s New One-of-a-Kind Batur Has a Dazzling 18-Carat Rose Gold Trim

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

Morgan

Morgan Supersport

Legendary British Marque Morgan Just Unveiled Its New Flagship Sportscar

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

G-Wagen

Mercedes-Benz

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

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



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



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



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



Silhouette CX Snake



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



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



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



Avenger B01 Chronograph 44 Cobra



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



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



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



Lange 1 Moon Phase



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



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



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



Portofino Automatic Moon Phase



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



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



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



Spirit of Big Bang Year of the Snake



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



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



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



Tonda PF Xiali Chinese Calendar in Rose Gold



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



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



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



Classique 7145 Lunar New Year 2025



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



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



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



Conquest Heritage Year of the Snake



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



<figure class="wp-block-gallery has-nested-images columns-default is-cropped wp-block-gallery-1 is-layout-flex wp-block-gallery-is-layout-flex">
<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="683" data-id="1234794974" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Jaeger_2400x1600-1024x683.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234794974" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Jaeger_2400x1600-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Jaeger_2400x1600-300x200.jpg 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Jaeger_2400x1600-768x512.jpg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Jaeger_2400x1600-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Jaeger_2400x1600-2048x1365.jpg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Image courtesy of Jaeger-LeCoultre</figcaption></figure>



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



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



Reverso Tribute Enamel “Snake”



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



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



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



Chinese New Year Automatic



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



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



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



Espiègleries Tresors d’Afrique



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



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



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



The Legend of the Chinese Zodiac—Year of the Snake



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

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Hublot

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

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



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



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



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



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

Gold Rolex

Gold Watches

Rolex

Watches

Rolex’s Gold Watches Just Got More Expensive

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



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



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



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



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



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



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

Girard-Perregaux

Laureato Chronograph Aston Martin Edition

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

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



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



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



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



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



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

Greubel Forsey

Handmade 2

Luxury watches

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

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



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full is-resized"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1000" height="562" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/vacheron-constantin-historiques-222.jpg.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234794903" style="width:839px;height:auto" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/vacheron-constantin-historiques-222.jpg.webp 1000w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/vacheron-constantin-historiques-222.jpg-300x169.webp 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/vacheron-constantin-historiques-222.jpg-768x432.webp 768w" sizes="(max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Vacheron Constantin Historiques 222. Image courtesy of Vacheron Constantin</figcaption></figure>



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



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



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



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

Vacheron Constantin

Vacheron Constantin watches

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

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



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



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



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



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

Pocket Watch

Tiffany & Co.

Titanic

Titanic pocket watch

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