We at Robb Report Hong Kong have made no secret about what “the Grande Dame of Hong Kong” means to us; <a href="https://robbreport.hk/brands/the-peninsula/stories" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">The Peninsula Hong Kong</a> is as iconic as it can be. Since its opening in 1928, the hotel has epitomised luxury and elegance, continuously enchanting guests with its rich heritage, impeccable service, refined experience, and unparalleled hospitality that set such a high benchmark from the onset, all others are measured from its lofty ideal.



As the festive season approaches, the hotel invites guests and visitors to experience the holiday season that highlights the hotel’s commitment to creating unforgettable memories, blending time-honoured traditions with contemporary festivities.



The Peninsula Hong Kong commenced the festive season with “The Peninsula Express—Festive Extravaganza” on 21 November 2024, featuring a musical journey, a feast, and a tree-lighting ceremony. During this period, the first floor of the hotel is transformed into the Grand Salisbury Station, featuring a custom-built Peninsula Express train carriage. With its signature Peninsula Green exterior and richly appointed interior, this dining experience is designed to take guests on a journey through iconic Chinese destinations, inspired by The Peninsula hotels in Shanghai and Beijing. Reservations for this unique gastronomic experience can be made on a per-table basis, accommodating up to four guests. 



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="682" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Gaddis-Festive-Menu-1024x682.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234794363" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Gaddis-Festive-Menu-1024x682.jpg 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Gaddis-Festive-Menu-300x200.jpg 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Gaddis-Festive-Menu-768x512.jpg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Gaddis-Festive-Menu-1536x1023.jpg 1536w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Gaddis-Festive-Menu-2048x1364.jpg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Gaddi’s.</figcaption></figure>



The feasting does not stop there. The Peninsula Hong Kong is offering an exquisite array of holiday dining experiences throughout the season. Among them, Gaddi’s, the&nbsp;&nbsp;Michelin-starred French restaurant, invites guests to enjoy a sophisticated dining experience amid elegant. Chef de cuisine Anne-Sophie Nicolas presents a selection of French haute cuisine specialities that pair well with the wine list.



For an equally delightful experience, Aurélie Altemaire, chef de cuisine of Felix has crafted a seasonal menu to celebrate the flavours of the holidays, complemented by creative cocktails. The combination of stunning vistas of Victoria Harbour and culinary excellence makes Felix a must-visit destination, whether to celebrate Christmas with loved ones or for an unforgettable New Year’s Eve countdown. 



<figure class="wp-block-video"><video controls src="https://video.wixstatic.com/video/86217e_3982f11e43ca4f128401664b7647aa47/1080p/mp4/file.mp4"></video></figure>



The festive offerings extend to The Lobby, where guests can indulge in the renowned Peninsula afternoon tea, enhanced with seasonal delicacies and live carol performances. In the spirit of the season, the hotel is proud to introduce the festive-themed Teas of Hope afternoon tea, in which a portion of the proceeds will benefit Make-A-Wish International, a non-profit organisation that grants life-changing wishes to children with critical illnesses, providing them with hope and joy.



<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/Chesa-Festive-Menu-1024x683.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234794362" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Chesa-Festive-Menu-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Chesa-Festive-Menu-300x200.jpg 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Chesa-Festive-Menu-768x512.jpg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Chesa-Festive-Menu-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Chesa-Festive-Menu-2048x1365.jpg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Chesa.</figcaption></figure>



An unmissable classic during the festive season is the culinary indulgence at Chesa, the hotel’s timeless Swiss restaurant. Evoking the atmosphere of a mountain chalet, Chesa’s iconic cheese fondue and raclette is the quintessential winter meal.



For those wishing to extend their stay, The Peninsula Hong Kong offers luxurious accommodations that promise magical holiday memories. Guests booking a two-night stay or more can enjoy daily breakfast, hotel credits for restaurants and spa, and priority dining reservations. Amid the festive bustle, guests can retreat to The Peninsula Spa and Wellness Centre for a moment of tranquillity. Exclusive seasonal treatments designed to relieve stress are on offer, accompanying by a complimentary gift for you to continue your pampering at home.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="786" height="1024" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Star-Ferry-Afternoon-Tea-Sep-2024-3-1-786x1024.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234794365" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Star-Ferry-Afternoon-Tea-Sep-2024-3-1-786x1024.jpg 786w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Star-Ferry-Afternoon-Tea-Sep-2024-3-1-230x300.jpg 230w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Star-Ferry-Afternoon-Tea-Sep-2024-3-1-768x1001.jpg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Star-Ferry-Afternoon-Tea-Sep-2024-3-1-1179x1536.jpg 1179w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Star-Ferry-Afternoon-Tea-Sep-2024-3-1.jpg 1228w" sizes="(max-width: 786px) 100vw, 786px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Star Ferry x The Peninsula Hong Kong.</figcaption></figure>



To top it all, this festive season, guests are invited to rejoice in its celebrated Afternoon Tea on the Harbour experience, resuming its enchanting voyages on the iconic Victoria Harbour from now till 31 March 2025. Hop aboard the beautifully customised World Star ferry to enjoy breathtaking views and live music, whilst savouring a thoughtfully crafted menu by chef de cuisine Kay Ng, featuring seasonal delights and the renowned Peninsula raisin scones, paired with premium teas and coffees for a complete gastronomic experience. These voyages will operate on Saturdays and selected Sundays, with two sessions available.&nbsp;



The Peninsula Hong Kong promises to enchant guests with unforgettable experiences that blend timeless traditions with contemporary luxury. Whether indulging in culinary delights, enjoying festive performances, or simply soaking in the opulent surroundings, guests will embrace the true spirit of the season at The Peninsula Hong Kong.

Christmas at The Peninsula

Christmas in Hong Kong

Dining

Hk Dining

The Peninsula

The Peninsula Hong Kong

Wine and Dine

Embark on a Journey of Tradition in the Peninsula Style

In a significant enhancement to its already illustrious and famed automotive offering, The Peninsula Hong Kong has added to its fleet the luxurious wheels from the famed British marquee Bentley. At a grand unveiling held recently, four bespoke Bentley Bentayga Extended Wheelbase (EWB) Azure SUVs were showcased in a row at the iconic Hong Kong hotel’s entrance. They dazzled in the sun, reaffirming The Peninsula’s position as a paragon of pure luxury and hospitality, a momentous occasion in the world of luxury.



This latest addition joins the hotel’s already esteemed collection, which features 14 Rolls-Royce Extended Wheelbase Phantoms and a meticulously refurbished 1934 Phantom II, symbolising the Grande Dame’s unwavering commitment to exceptional guest transport in and around the city.&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/2024/12/The-Bentley-Bentayga-handover-ceremony-was-held-at-the-hotels-forecourt-on-26-November-2024_2-1024x683.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234793787" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/The-Bentley-Bentayga-handover-ceremony-was-held-at-the-hotels-forecourt-on-26-November-2024_2-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/The-Bentley-Bentayga-handover-ceremony-was-held-at-the-hotels-forecourt-on-26-November-2024_2-300x200.jpg 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/The-Bentley-Bentayga-handover-ceremony-was-held-at-the-hotels-forecourt-on-26-November-2024_2-768x512.jpg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/The-Bentley-Bentayga-handover-ceremony-was-held-at-the-hotels-forecourt-on-26-November-2024_2-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/The-Bentley-Bentayga-handover-ceremony-was-held-at-the-hotels-forecourt-on-26-November-2024_2-2048x1365.jpg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Sir Michael Kadoorie with Dr Frank-Steffen Walliser.</figcaption></figure>



The official handover ceremony, held on 26 November 2024 at the hotel’s forecourt, was attended by Sir Michael Kadoorie, non-executive chairman of The Hongkong and Shanghai Hotels. He accepted the keys to the new Bentayga EWB Azure luxury cars from Dr Frank-Steffen Walliser, CEO of Bentley Motors, a spotlight speaker at the <a href="https://robbreport.hk/posts/robb-report-hong-kong-leaders-of-luxury-summit-gala-dinner-2024" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Leaders of Luxury Summit 2024</a> hosted by Robb Report Hong Kong that same week.



“The acquisition of these vehicles is a truly momentous occasion for The Peninsula,” Joseph W Y Chong, regional executive vice-president for Asia and managing director of The Peninsula Hong Kong. “Not only does it align with our legacy of offering the finest available transport to our guests; it also reflects our dedication to providing them with unparalleled experiences at every turn.”



As any motor enthusiast knows, the Bentley Bentayga EWB Azure is not just a vehicle; it is a statement of sophistication. With its striking design and expansive interiors, it offers unparalleled comfort, making it the ideal choice for discerning travellers. The vehicles feature custom bodywork in the signature Peninsula green, complemented by hushed self-closing extended rear doors. Inside, the opulence continues with custom-quilted seat backs, veneered picnic tables, individual entertainment screens, and a rear control panel that grants passengers the ability to tailor their environment to exacting standards. Additionally, bespoke features such as a rear-seat massage function and dual wireless chargers enhance the travel experience, while spacious leather-clad luggage compartments ensure practicality does not compromise luxury.



Alongside the Bentayga EWB Azures, The Peninsula Hong Kong has also introduced four new bespoke Toyota Alphards, which offer an eco-friendly yet luxurious transport option for family and executive groups. These hybrid-electric vehicles accommodate up to six passengers and are equipped with a plethora of customised Peninsula features, including remote controls for climate, seating, and lighting, as well as a state-of-the-art JBL sound system that adds a layer of entertainment to every journey.



<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/The-Bentley-Bentayga-handover-ceremony-was-held-at-the-hotels-forecourt-on-26-November-2024-1024x683.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234793788" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/The-Bentley-Bentayga-handover-ceremony-was-held-at-the-hotels-forecourt-on-26-November-2024-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/The-Bentley-Bentayga-handover-ceremony-was-held-at-the-hotels-forecourt-on-26-November-2024-300x200.jpg 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/The-Bentley-Bentayga-handover-ceremony-was-held-at-the-hotels-forecourt-on-26-November-2024-768x512.jpg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/The-Bentley-Bentayga-handover-ceremony-was-held-at-the-hotels-forecourt-on-26-November-2024-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/The-Bentley-Bentayga-handover-ceremony-was-held-at-the-hotels-forecourt-on-26-November-2024-2048x1365.jpg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Bentley delivered the Bentayga EWB Azure luxury cars to The Peninsula Hong Kong on 26 November 2024.</figcaption></figure>



The addition of the new luxury vehicles is a defining chapter in the hotel’s famed history. The Peninsula Hong Kong’s automotive legacy dates back to its early years, when luxury cars first defined the hotel’s commitment to providing exceptional transport. The hotel’s history includes operating its own taxis and acquiring a fleet of Lincoln Continentals and Ford Galaxies. A landmark moment came in 1970 with the purchase of seven Rolls-Royce Silver Shadows, marking the largest single order ever placed with the manufacturer at the time. Over the years, The Peninsula Hong Kong has continually refined its fleet, striving to offer the most stylish and comfortable vehicles available.



In 2006, the introduction of 14 Extended Wheelbase Phantoms set a new benchmark in luxury ground transport, with each vehicle meticulously customised to meet Peninsula specifications. Today, the hotel’s collection is not just about transportation; it embodies the essence of the Peninsula experience—one that combines elegance, comfort, and impeccable service.



The unveiling of the Bentley Bentayga EWB Azures further enriches this narrative, ensuring that guests not only enjoy the exquisite surroundings of The Peninsula Hong Kong but also travel in signature style and comfort. As the hotel continues to elevate its offerings, it reaffirms its status as a leader in luxury hospitality, where every detail is curated to create unforgettable experiences.



All images courtesy of The Peninsula Hong Kong.

Bentayga Azure

Bentley

Bentley SUVs

Hong Kong

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The Peninsula Hong Kong Expands Its Luxury Automotive Fleet with 4 New Bentley SUVs

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

Dior

Diptyque

MTM Labo

Swarovski

Tea WG

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

<a href="https://www.raffles.com/singapore/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Raffles Singapore</a> is the main setting for what will undoubtedly prove to be the luxury traveller’s catchphrase for a long—if not a very long—time: “The butler did it.” Full stop. Now, here are four words that imagine and intrigue (what do they say to you?). It’s also <a href="https://robbreport.hk/brands/raffles/stories" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Raffles</a>’s new campaign; fashion, but for a hotel brand, or rather, the butler brand. Robb Report Hong Kong wanted to know how it all came about.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="725" height="1024" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/RAFFLES_The-Butler-Did-It_Pool-1-725x1024.jpeg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234792411" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/RAFFLES_The-Butler-Did-It_Pool-1-725x1024.jpeg 725w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/RAFFLES_The-Butler-Did-It_Pool-1-213x300.jpeg 213w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/RAFFLES_The-Butler-Did-It_Pool-1-768x1084.jpeg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/RAFFLES_The-Butler-Did-It_Pool-1-1088x1536.jpeg 1088w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/RAFFLES_The-Butler-Did-It_Pool-1-1451x2048.jpeg 1451w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/RAFFLES_The-Butler-Did-It_Pool-1-scaled.jpeg 1813w" sizes="(max-width: 725px) 100vw, 725px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Raffles’s new The Butler Did It campaign was shot at Raffles Singapore and launched during New York Fashion Week. Image courtesy of Raffles</figcaption></figure>



Raffles brand director, Claudia Kozma Kaplan, is the creative key. She came from a decade in dressing—including being SVP of marketing for Christian <a href="https://robbreport.hk/brands/dior/stories" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Dior</a> Couture. Now based in New York, she called four top-notch creative agencies into bid. Trey Laird, who is well-known in A-list circles—and he who has Tiffany and <a href="https://robbreport.hk/brands/tom-ford/stories" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Tom Ford</a> in his professional pocket—hardly took breath after hearing the brief. Ah, he said immediately, we’re talking about “the butler did it.”



That was that. Shooting at Raffles Singapore was, well, so appropriate, as butlers were a part of the iconic hotel from the first day of operations, all the way back in 1887. As director, among “guests” whom Laird signed for the campaign video are Malaysian model and writer May Siu, and flamboyant Punjabi actor <a href="https://robbreport.hk/posts/actor-waris-ahluwalia-launches-his-new-guilt-free-sparkling-elixir-in-hong-kong" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Waris Ahluwalia</a>, known for his stunning finger rings. The butler, of course, needed to be an ageless English gent. Think versatile fashion model Tim Easton. Cementing its fashion DNA, The Butler Did It was officially launched during New York Fashion Week.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="683" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/TLBNK-1024x683.jpeg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234792410" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/TLBNK-1024x683.jpeg 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/TLBNK-300x200.jpeg 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/TLBNK-768x512.jpeg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/TLBNK-1536x1024.jpeg 1536w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/TLBNK-2048x1365.jpeg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Customs House, on the Chao Phraya river, will become a 78-room Langham hotel. Image courtesy of Langham Hospitality Group</figcaption></figure>



Heritage is increasingly important in these days of newness. We hear that Bangkok’s 1888-vintage Customs House, on the Chao Phraya river, will become a 78-room Langham hotel. It’s scheduled for opening in 2026. As always, any property on the river has extra clout, especially in Bangkok.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="683" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/506675-Anantara-Palazzo-Naiadi-Rome-Hotel-Front-Facade-bb5b38-original-1696934968-1024x683.jpeg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234792415" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/506675-Anantara-Palazzo-Naiadi-Rome-Hotel-Front-Facade-bb5b38-original-1696934968-1024x683.jpeg 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/506675-Anantara-Palazzo-Naiadi-Rome-Hotel-Front-Facade-bb5b38-original-1696934968-300x200.jpeg 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/506675-Anantara-Palazzo-Naiadi-Rome-Hotel-Front-Facade-bb5b38-original-1696934968-768x512.jpeg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/506675-Anantara-Palazzo-Naiadi-Rome-Hotel-Front-Facade-bb5b38-original-1696934968-1536x1024.jpeg 1536w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/506675-Anantara-Palazzo-Naiadi-Rome-Hotel-Front-Facade-bb5b38-original-1696934968-2048x1365.jpeg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Anantara Palazzo Naiadi Rome will host the Anantara Concorso Roma presented by UBS in April 2025. Image courtesy of Minor Hotels</figcaption></figure>



Who first comes to mind when thinking about Bangkok and luxury lifestyle? US-born Thai citizen Bill Heinecke is a main contender. As the boss of Minor—named because he was underage when he founded the company (his father signed the relevant papers)—his now-worldwide empire encompasses elephant sanctuaries and tented camps, foods from fast to Michelin-starred, and some stunning hotels. Think St Regis in Bangkok, and the equally gorgeous Anantara Palazzo Naiadi Rome, an 18th-century marble palace overlooking the Fountain of the Naiads. It is the official host hotel for the Anantara Concorso Roma presented by UBS, scheduled for 24 to 27 April 2025. Expect an exclusively Italian line-up of motor marques, with Heinecke, a renowned collector of the best, beaming throughout.



One wonders if luxury hotel owners and petrolheads go together naturally. Sir Michael Kadoorie, the Peninsula legend, is similarly a renowned lover of vintage cars (and planes). At its Quail Lodge in California, the Peninsula presents the annual Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance. The 2024 event’s two-day auction realised over US$108 million (HK$839.5 million) in total sales. Star of the show was a 1938 Alfa Romeo 8C 2900B Lungo Spider, sold for US$14 million (HK$108.8 million)—its value perhaps enhanced by having recently been rescued from a high-profile heist. The auction was conducted by leading car auction house Gooding &amp; Company. Founded by CEO David Gooding and his wife Dawn Ahrens, Gooding &amp; Company was recently bought by Christie’s, which in turn is owned by the Pinault family’s Artemis.

Anantara

Bangkok

Langham

Minor Hotels

Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance

Raffles

Raffles Singapore

rome

Raffles Launches “The Butler Did It” Campaign, The Langham Is Opening a New Hotel in Bangkok, and Other Things to Bookmark this October

The time to relish in the delicacies of Mid-Autumn Festival—and partake in the festivities and feasts that come with it—is upon us. A key part of the occasion’s canon, the role of the once-humble mooncake cannot be overstated, and we turn to an icon, The Peninsula Hong Kong, to embrace the Mid-Autumn Festival tradition.&nbsp;



Spring Moon,&nbsp;The Peninsula Hong Kong’s very own Cantonese restaurant,&nbsp;is a Michelin-starred jewel where award-winning chefs have created a fine balance between tradition and novelty for nearly four decades.&nbsp;Back in 1986, the&nbsp;culinary team&nbsp;of Spring Moon manifested what eventually became a local culinary phenomenon: the&nbsp;mini&nbsp;egg&nbsp;custard&nbsp;mooncake. The original recipe may have a Western-inspired filling, but the time-honoured cooking traditions are the same, making it a firm favourite. The treat is included in Spring Moon’s&nbsp;Mid-Autumn Festival&nbsp;offerings every year, whilst a limited-edition&nbsp;sesame&nbsp;paste&nbsp;mochi&nbsp;mooncake&nbsp;is also up for grabs this season.&nbsp;This mooncake flavour was created by Chinese cuisine executive chef, Lam Yuk Ming, as an homage to the steamed sesame and lotus seed paste buns that he enjoyed in his childhood,&nbsp;&nbsp;



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="723" height="1024" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Spring-Moon-Mid-Autumn-Festival-Deluxe-Gourmet-Hamper-723x1024.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234789523" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Spring-Moon-Mid-Autumn-Festival-Deluxe-Gourmet-Hamper-723x1024.jpg 723w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Spring-Moon-Mid-Autumn-Festival-Deluxe-Gourmet-Hamper-212x300.jpg 212w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Spring-Moon-Mid-Autumn-Festival-Deluxe-Gourmet-Hamper-768x1088.jpg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Spring-Moon-Mid-Autumn-Festival-Deluxe-Gourmet-Hamper-1084x1536.jpg 1084w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Spring-Moon-Mid-Autumn-Festival-Deluxe-Gourmet-Hamper.jpg 1129w" sizes="(max-width: 723px) 100vw, 723px" /></figure>



Spring Moon&nbsp;is also offering the&nbsp;Mid-Autumn Festival Premium Gourmet Hamper, which is filled with&nbsp;lavish&nbsp;treats&nbsp;including a box of mini egg custard mooncakes,&nbsp;18-head fish maw, Hokkaido conpoy, shiitake mushrooms, 30-head Middle Eastern dried abalone, caramelised sesame walnuts, Yunnan aged pu’er, and the restaurant’s iconic XO&nbsp;chilli&nbsp;sauce.&nbsp;



To top it all off, as we endure a sizzling season, chef Lam and his culinary team have attuned the à la carte and tasting menus to involve even more elements of traditional Chinese cooking techniques and ingredients, using zucchini, pumpkin, cabbage, cucumber, and celery, adding nutritional value and a soothing effect as temperature hover in the higher degrees. New dishes include the light and healthy&nbsp;pan-fried cod fish with quinoa,&nbsp;preserved vegetables. Moreover, the&nbsp;cod fish dumpling with minced shrimps and bamboo shoots&nbsp;in Sichuan spicy-sour sauce is simply delicious, and the&nbsp;steamed zucchini flower&nbsp;stuffed with bird’s nest, fox nuts, and beans in pumpkin sauce is pure culinary art.



<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="1234790562" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/spring_moon_l-1024x683.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234790562" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/spring_moon_l-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/spring_moon_l-300x200.jpg 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/spring_moon_l-768x512.jpg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/spring_moon_l-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/spring_moon_l-2048x1365.jpg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Spring Moon at The Peninsula Hong Kong.</figcaption></figure>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="683" data-id="1234789521" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Spring-Moon-New-Dishsq-Horizontal-website-use-1024x683.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234789521" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Spring-Moon-New-Dishsq-Horizontal-website-use-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Spring-Moon-New-Dishsq-Horizontal-website-use-300x200.jpg 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Spring-Moon-New-Dishsq-Horizontal-website-use-768x512.jpg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Spring-Moon-New-Dishsq-Horizontal-website-use-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Spring-Moon-New-Dishsq-Horizontal-website-use-2048x1365.jpg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Pan-fried cod fish with quinoa, preserved vegetables, and cod fish dumpling with minced shrimps and bamboo shoots in Sichuan spicy-sour sauce.</figcaption></figure>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="683" data-id="1234789522" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Spring-Moon-New-Dish-2-1024x683.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234789522" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Spring-Moon-New-Dish-2-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Spring-Moon-New-Dish-2-300x200.jpg 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Spring-Moon-New-Dish-2-768x512.jpg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Spring-Moon-New-Dish-2-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Spring-Moon-New-Dish-2-2048x1365.jpg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Steamed zucchini flower stuffed with bird’s nest, fox nuts, and beans in pumpkin sauce.</figcaption></figure>
</figure>



From the chef’s tasting menu, the&nbsp;crispy fish maw and eggplant with caviar&nbsp;is indulgent; the&nbsp;wok-fried Tachiuo fish with Brussels sprouts, bell peppers, and the famed signature XO&nbsp;chilli&nbsp;sauce; and the&nbsp;Inaniwa udon with Boston lobster, cabbage, and black mushrooms&nbsp;are all new additions for elevated and exquisite dining. For exalting dim sum dining, a novel addition includes the&nbsp;steamed blue lobster dumpling with shrimp, pork, egg white, water chestnut, Chinese celery, and spinach sauce. The haute cuisine dumpling is a spectacular, innovative twist on the classic bite, proving once again Spring Moon’s&nbsp;well-deserved Michelin star for&nbsp;eight&nbsp;consecutive years.



Mid-Autumn Festival mooncakes and the Premium Gourmet Hamper from Spring Moon are available for purchase online at <a href="https://eshopphk.peninsula.com/cart/category?cid=3" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">The Peninsula Hong Kong e-shop</a>.



All images courtesy of The Peninsula Hong Kong.

Michelin

Mid-autumn Festival

Mid-autumn Festival 2024

Mooncakes

Spring Moon

Mooncake Magic and Sumptuous Cantonese Dishes at The Peninsula Hong Kong

The Lunar New Year stands as the most significant celebration in Chinese culture. It symbolises renewal and the opportunity to seek blessing, luck, and prosperity at the start of the coming year, and a new annual cycle according to Chinese astrology. This Lunar New Year falls on 10 February 2024, where we welcome the Year of the Dragon.&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/2024/01/CNY-Chor-1024x683.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234783791" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/CNY-Chor-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/CNY-Chor-300x200.jpg 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/CNY-Chor-768x512.jpg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/CNY-Chor-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/CNY-Chor-2048x1365.jpg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">The Peninsula Hong Kong.</figcaption></figure>



The concept of togetherness and reunion is at the heart of Lunar New Year celebrations. Families, relatives, and friends come together to honour traditions, pay respect to elders, savour festive dishes, and venture to the many floral and festive markets dotted throughout the city.&nbsp;



<figure class="wp-block-video"><video controls src="https://video.wixstatic.com/video/a46afd_8b42df1e8bfb426490ec65b3a5982414/1080p/mp4/file.mp4"></video></figure>



The dragon and the lion dance are perhaps the most recognised symbols and the most exciting spectacle during Lunar New Year. Befitting its acclaimed status of being the “Grande Dame of the Far East,” this thousand-year-old tradition is performed in the grandest and most revered fashion at The Peninsula Hong Kong. Guests&nbsp;are invited to celebrate and witness this welcoming of the Lunar New Year in signature Peninsula splendour with a dragon and lion dance, comprising not only one, but nine energetic lions.&nbsp;



This tradition starts with a ceremony to seek blessings and is followed by the symbolic “life-giving” ritual to the dragon and lions by dotting their eyes with auspicious red ink. The mythical creatures will awaken and dance rhythmically to the energetic tunes of drums and cymbals, an experience which must be witnessed first-hand to appreciate the grandeur and grandiosity of this celebration.&nbsp;



Beyond being a spectacle for tourists, this culturally significant dance is believed by locals to ward off bad spirits and bring luck, great fortune, and divine blessings. On the first three days of Lunar New Year, Peninsula guests will receive auspicious couplets—auspicious wishes handcrafted in Chinese calligraphy on red scrolls by artisanal calligraphers—as cherished mementos to take home.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="705" height="1024" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/Hamper-_-V-705x1024.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234783509" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/Hamper-_-V-705x1024.jpg 705w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/Hamper-_-V-206x300.jpg 206w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/Hamper-_-V-768x1116.jpg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/Hamper-_-V-1057x1536.jpg 1057w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/Hamper-_-V.jpg 1101w" sizes="(max-width: 705px) 100vw, 705px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">The Peninsula Hong Kong Chinese New Year Hamper.</figcaption></figure>



The Lunar New Year embraces the timeless tradition of family reunions, where generations gather to savour a myriad of exquisite traditional New Year dishes to symbolise a year of abundance ahead. All Lunar New Year festivities must begin or end with lavish meals—this is where the award-winning chefs at The Peninsula Hong Kong step up and prove their apron strings. Michelin-starred Cantonese restaurant Spring Moon will showcase an array of coveted treats in honour of the Year of the Dragon. Specialties include gourmet puddings and delicacies to share at family reunions, and a beautifully handcrafted “Divine Treasures Hamper,” which is filled with celebratory treats such as red date pudding, dried abalone, homemade XO chilli sauce, aged Yunnan Pu’er premium tea, and more.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="683" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/Deluxe-Harbour-View-Suite-Bedroom-Copy-1024x683.jpeg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234783788" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/Deluxe-Harbour-View-Suite-Bedroom-Copy-1024x683.jpeg 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/Deluxe-Harbour-View-Suite-Bedroom-Copy-300x200.jpeg 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/Deluxe-Harbour-View-Suite-Bedroom-Copy-768x512.jpeg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/Deluxe-Harbour-View-Suite-Bedroom-Copy-1536x1024.jpeg 1536w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/Deluxe-Harbour-View-Suite-Bedroom-Copy-2048x1365.jpeg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">The Peninsula Hong Kong Deluxe Harbour View Suite.</figcaption></figure>



For guests wishing to experience the myriads of festivities, The Peninsula Hong Kong has created a Lunar New Year stay offer, featuring luxurious accommodations, round-trip Rolls-Royce transfer, and a helicopter flight-seeing tour over Hong Kong. For guests staying over&nbsp;11 February 2024, they will be treated to the best and most central view of the highly anticipated Lunar New Year fireworks at the hotel’s Sun Terrace, while the very exclusive Helipad awaits guests staying in suites.&nbsp;For those seeking pampering, the “New Year, New You” spa experience provides a fusion of traditional Chinese medicine-inspired treatments, featuring organic seaweed-based products and rejuvenating massages that draw from ancient philosophies of balancing yin and yang energies.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="683" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/Experience-our-exclusive-collaboration-with-Star-Ferry-1024x683.jpeg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234783422" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/Experience-our-exclusive-collaboration-with-Star-Ferry-1024x683.jpeg 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/Experience-our-exclusive-collaboration-with-Star-Ferry-300x200.jpeg 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/Experience-our-exclusive-collaboration-with-Star-Ferry-768x512.jpeg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/Experience-our-exclusive-collaboration-with-Star-Ferry-1536x1024.jpeg 1536w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/Experience-our-exclusive-collaboration-with-Star-Ferry-2048x1365.jpeg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">The Peninsula Hong Kong’s “Afternoon Tea on the Harbour” experience with Star Ferry.</figcaption></figure>



Due to its popularity, the hotel will once again partner with another Hong Kong legend, the Star Ferry, to offer a third season of “Afternoon Tea on the Harbour.” Both overseas visitors and local residents will have the opportunity to enjoy afternoon tea in the distinct Peninsula style against the dynamic backdrop of Victoria Harbour’s city skyline. The experience extends beyond exquisite tea to include a scenic sail past iconic spots like the West Kowloon Cultural District, Stonecutters Bridge, and Kennedy Town.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="683" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/The-Peninsula-Afternoon-Tea-on-the-Harbour-1024x683.jpeg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234783423" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/The-Peninsula-Afternoon-Tea-on-the-Harbour-1024x683.jpeg 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/The-Peninsula-Afternoon-Tea-on-the-Harbour-300x200.jpeg 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/The-Peninsula-Afternoon-Tea-on-the-Harbour-768x512.jpeg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/The-Peninsula-Afternoon-Tea-on-the-Harbour-1536x1024.jpeg 1536w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/The-Peninsula-Afternoon-Tea-on-the-Harbour-2048x1365.jpeg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">The Peninsula Hong Kong “Afternoon Tea on the Harbour” experience.</figcaption></figure>



Amidst the captivating panoramic harbour, guests aboard will be delighting in an unparalleled afternoon tea experience. Executive pastry chef Florian Couteau and chef de cuisine Anton Ho have crafted a delectable spread, where decadent treats take centre stage. For those desiring a touch of opulence, caviar and premium wines are on offer. Elevating the ambience, the live band and singing onboard add a melodic layer to the entire experience. The indulgent “Afternoon Tea on The Harbour” is available every Saturday and Sunday, from 27 January to 30 June 2024.



As the iconic hotel rings in a landmark anniversary, this golden chapter in its storied books promises to be a memorable one. Famed as one of Hong Kong’s greatest icons, we invite you to experience this exciting Lunar New Year celebration for yourself.



Chinese New Year puddings and the Divine Treasures Hamper from Spring Moon are available for purchase online at&nbsp;<a href="https://eshopphk.peninsula.com/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">The Peninsula Hong Kong e-shop</a>.



For reservations and enquiries for Lunar New Year feasts at Spring Moon, please contact (+852) 2696 6828 or email&nbsp;<a href="mailto:springmoonphk@peninsula.com" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">springmoonphk@peninsula.com</a>.&nbsp;



Book your Lunar New Year stay at The Peninsula Hong Kong&nbsp;<a href="https://www.peninsula.com/en/hong-kong/special-offers/rooms/peninsula-chinese-new-year-room-offer-2024" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">here</a>.



The Peninsula Hong Kong Afternoon Tea on the Harbour is priced at HK$820* per person. Online reservation is now available for tables of two or four&nbsp;<a href="https://gift.peninsula.com/hongkong/phk/the-peninsula-star-ferry-experience" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">here</a>. Private and corporate charters are available upon request. For enquiries, please contact the hotel’s dining service team at (+852) 2696 6691 or (+852) 2696 6693 or email&nbsp;<a href="mailto:diningphk@peninsula.com" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">diningphk@peninsula.com</a>.



All images courtesy of The Peninsula Hong Kong.

Chinese New Year

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Celebrate an Auspicious Year of the Dragon at The Peninsula Hong Kong

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

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

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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

delta

Delta airlines

Luxury Travel

Delta Is Pulling Out All the Stops to Woo Luxury Travellers

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

boeing starliner

starliner spacecraft return

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

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



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



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



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large is-resized"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="683" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Beond_1-1024x683.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234790465" style="width:680px;height:auto" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Beond_1-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Beond_1-300x200.jpg 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Beond_1-768x512.jpg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Beond_1-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Beond_1-2048x1365.jpg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">The seats were designed by Optimares and upholstered by Poltrona Frau. Image courtesy of Matheen Faiz</figcaption></figure>



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



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



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



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



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large is-resized"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="683" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Beond_3-1024x683.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234790467" style="width:680px;height:auto" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Beond_3-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Beond_3-300x200.jpg 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Beond_3-768x512.jpg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Beond_3-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Beond_3-2048x1365.jpg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">The iPad and Bose headphones.</figcaption></figure>



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



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

Beond

italy

jetsetting

luxury aircrafts

luxury leisure

Maldives

Milan

Luxury Airline Beond Is Now Flying Between Milan and the Maldives

Heart Aerospace is almost ready for takeoff.



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

Airplane

clean travel

electric aviation

Heart Aerospace

hybrid-electric airplane

Swedish

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



All images courtesy of Wheelock Properties.

Hong Kong Property

legacy property

property

VIctoria Peak

Wheelock Properties

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

Chinese couture

couturier

Exhibition

Guo Pei

Haute Couture

Hong Kong exhibition

Met Gala outfit

red wedding gown

Rihanna

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

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



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



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



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



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



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

2025

Forecast

Housing

housing market

market

Real Estate

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

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



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



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



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large is-resized"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Harry-Winston-Results.jpg-1024x576.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234794270" style="width:841px;height:auto" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Harry-Winston-Results.jpg-1024x576.webp 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Harry-Winston-Results.jpg-300x169.webp 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Harry-Winston-Results.jpg-768x432.webp 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Harry-Winston-Results.jpg.webp 1200w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Harry Winston spinel and diamond earrings. Image courtesy of Christie’s</figcaption></figure>



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



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



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large is-resized"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Cartier-Brooch-Results.jpg-1024x576.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234794271" style="width:842px;height:auto" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Cartier-Brooch-Results.jpg-1024x576.webp 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Cartier-Brooch-Results.jpg-300x169.webp 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Cartier-Brooch-Results.jpg-768x432.webp 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Cartier-Brooch-Results.jpg.webp 1200w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Cartier Art Deco multi-gem and diamond brooch. Image courtesy of Christie’s</figcaption></figure>



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



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

Auction

Christie's

High Jewellery

jewellery

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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

Golden Visa

Golden visa Program

New Zealand

Travel

UHNW

visa

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

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



Describe the hotel in three words: Exquisite French flair.



What’s the deal?



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



Martin Brudnizki, designer extraordinaire, strikes again—this time, with a pastel-coloured touch that infuses the property with a dreamy romanticism. Dusty lavender and sage green rule the roost across the 97 rooms and suites, but the Swedish visionary artfully left his eclectic signature on the lighting fixtures—spoiler alert: all the lampshades, chandeliers, and sconces are delightfully individual and harmoniously blended into the Art Deco design.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="683" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/2022_09-Fouquets-32-Chambre-705_LivingRoom_003-1-1024x683.jpeg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234793728" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/2022_09-Fouquets-32-Chambre-705_LivingRoom_003-1-1024x683.jpeg 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/2022_09-Fouquets-32-Chambre-705_LivingRoom_003-1-300x200.jpeg 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/2022_09-Fouquets-32-Chambre-705_LivingRoom_003-1-768x512.jpeg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/2022_09-Fouquets-32-Chambre-705_LivingRoom_003-1-1536x1024.jpeg 1536w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/2022_09-Fouquets-32-Chambre-705_LivingRoom_003-1-2048x1365.jpeg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Stay in the 2,400-plus square-feet Fouquet’s Penthouse, spread over two floors, with three private terraces.</figcaption></figure>



The best room?



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



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



Does the hotel have a standout perk?



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



Did they greet you by name at check-in?



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



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



Was a welcome drink ready and waiting when you arrived?



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



Private butler for every room?



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



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



Is the sheet thread count higher than 300?



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



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



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



Are the toiletries full-sized?



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



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



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



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



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



Is the restaurant worth its salt?



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



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



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



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



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



Would you buy the hotel if you could?



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



Score: 8



What Our Score Means:



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



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



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



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



All images courtesy of Fouquet’s New York.

Fouquet’s New York

Groupe Barrière

Hotel Barrière

luxury hotel

New York

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="683" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Rosewood-Doha_01-1024x683.jpeg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234793291" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Rosewood-Doha_01-1024x683.jpeg 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Rosewood-Doha_01-300x200.jpeg 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Rosewood-Doha_01-768x512.jpeg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Rosewood-Doha_01-1536x1024.jpeg 1536w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Rosewood-Doha_01-2048x1365.jpeg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Rosewood Doha.</figcaption></figure>



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



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="683" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Rosewood-Amsterdam_highres-1024x683.jpeg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234793289" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Rosewood-Amsterdam_highres-1024x683.jpeg 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Rosewood-Amsterdam_highres-300x200.jpeg 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Rosewood-Amsterdam_highres-768x512.jpeg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Rosewood-Amsterdam_highres-1536x1024.jpeg 1536w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Rosewood-Amsterdam_highres-2048x1365.jpeg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Rosewood Amsterdam.</figcaption></figure>



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



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="683" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/The-Chancery-Rosewood_exterior-1024x683.jpeg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234793290" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/The-Chancery-Rosewood_exterior-1024x683.jpeg 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/The-Chancery-Rosewood_exterior-300x200.jpeg 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/The-Chancery-Rosewood_exterior-768x512.jpeg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/The-Chancery-Rosewood_exterior-1536x1024.jpeg 1536w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/The-Chancery-Rosewood_exterior-2048x1365.jpeg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">The Chancery Rosewood.</figcaption></figure>



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



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



All images courtesy of Rosewood.

Rosewood

Rosewood Amsterdam

Rosewood Doha

Rosewood Mandarina

Rosewood Miyakojima

The Chancery Rosewood

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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

Chef

Michel Roux jr.

Michelinj-chef

Scotland

Scottish Castle

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

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



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



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



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



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

2024 Golden Vines

awards

Golden Vines

Golden Vines Awards

Oscars of the Wine World

wine awards

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

Dr Pang

Dr Pang Yiu-kai

Leaders of Luxury Summit

Leaders of Luxury Summit 2024

Hong Kong Affirms Its Status as a Premier Luxury Destination

French Cuisine

Julian Royer

Loic Portalier

Louise

Inside Louise, Julien Royer’s Fine French Restaurant, and Its Evolution

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

Bugatti

Garage

Luxury

ultra-luxury

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

The&nbsp;<a href="https://robbreport.com/motors/cars/chevrolet-confirms-c8-corvette-zr1-variant-summer-1235578525/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Chevrolet C8 Corvette ZR1</a>&nbsp;is more than just the most powerful version of the iconic sports car.



The Detroit automaker has just revealed that the high-performance variant will be able to rocket from zero to 60 mph in just 2.3 seconds. That time is 0.2 seconds quicker than the&nbsp;<a href="https://robbreport.com/motors/cars/first-drive-hybrid-chevrolet-corvette-e-ray-1235338608/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">hybrid C8 E-Ray</a>, making the ZR1 the quickest&nbsp;<a href="https://robbreport.com/motors/cars/chevrolet-corvette-guide-americas-sports-car-1234789158/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">‘Vette</a>&nbsp;in the nameplate’s 71-year history.



Are you curious how that acceleration will carry over to the drag strip? Chevy has also shared that ZR1 can cover the quarter-mile in just 9.6 seconds at 150 mph. That’s nowhere near as quick as an NHRA Top Fuel dragster—which can run the same distance in under four seconds—but it will beat most other street-legal vehicles at your next track day.



<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
<iframe loading="lazy" title="And just like that, the Corvette ZR1 is now the quickest and fastest Corvette ever." width="500" height="281" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/iXBzuBjrzJw?feature=oembed" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen></iframe>
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The ZR1 will need to be equipped with the optional ZTK Performance package in order to reach its full potential. The kit includes front drive planes, underbody strakes, a Gurney flap, a rather large rear wing and a set of Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2R tires. But the variant is still pretty quick without the add-ons, able to hit 60 mph in 2.5 seconds and cover the quarter-mile in 9.7 seconds at 152 mph on 93 octane pump fuel.



These numbers shouldn’t come as much of a surprise to anyone who has followed the C8 ZR1’s development. The first turbocharged <a href="https://robbreport.com/tag/corvette/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Corvette</a> is powered by a crackling 5.5-litre flat-plane-crank V-8 that generates a staggering 1,064 hp and 828 ft lbs of torque. That output beats that of the previous most powerful Corvette, the C7 ZR1, by over 300 hp and 100 ft lbs of torque. In October, Chevy revealed that the model <a href="https://robbreport.com/motors/cars/2025-chevrolet-corvette-zr1-233-mph-top-speed-fastest-american-car-1235952263/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">can reach a top speed of 233 mph</a>. Not only does that speed make the car the fastest Corvette, it also makes it the fastest series production vehicle ever built by an American automaker.



Production of the C8 ZR1 is expected to start early next year. <a href="https://robbreport.com/tag/general-motors/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">General Motors</a> has yet to announce a price, but as the new range-topping Corvette it will not be cheap. It wouldn’t be that much of a surprise if it ends up costing close to double the E-Ray’s US$106,900 (approximately HK$831,120) starting price, especially if you opt for the ZTK Performance package.

chevrolet

Chevy Corvette

The New 1,064 HP Chevy Corvette Is the Fastest to 60 MPH in Model History

Good things come to those who wait—especially around the holidays.



<a href="https://robbreport.com/tag/de-tomaso/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">De Tomaso</a> has shared a glimpse of the first production-spec example of the P72 supercar. The stylish speed machine arrived more than five years after the comeback model was first unveiled.



The resurrected De Tomaso announced its return by unveiling the P72 back in the summer of 2019. <a href="https://robbreport.com/motors/cars/de-tomaso-p72-supercar-2857083/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Hailed as a “Modern Day Time Machine</a>,” the flamboyant supercar was heavily inspired by the P70, a collaboration between Carroll Shelby and Alejandro de Tomaso that failed to come to fruition. Unfortunately, the Covid pandemic hit the next year, slowing the development of the vehicle and upping the chances that it would meet the same fate as the car it was inspired by.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/p7203.jpg-1024x576.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234794664" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/p7203.jpg-1024x576.webp 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/p7203.jpg-300x169.webp 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/p7203.jpg-768x432.webp 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/p7203.jpg.webp 1200w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Inside the De Tomaso P72 Image courtesy of De Tomaso Automobil</figcaption></figure>



A half-decade later and the company has announced that the P72 is just about ready to go into production. De Tomaso has shared photos of a production-spec example, chassis 001, that will be used for the final stage of “dynamic evaluation,” or testing, before it begins building customer cars. None of the photos offer a complete image of the finished vehicle, but they suggest that the company will come awfully close to what it promised.



Chassis 001 hasn’t been painted yet, but the photos show that its carbon-fibre body is just as curvaceous as the concept shown at the tail end of the last decade. But the vehicle has evolved in other ways. It will no longer share a bespoke carbon-fibre tub with <a href="https://robbreport.com/motors/cars/apollo-ie-supercar-2784928/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">sister company Apollo’s Intensa Emozione</a> supercar. Instead, it will feature a chassis designed with German motorsports company HWA, which will be safer and allow for more head and legroom inside the vehicle’s outlandish cabin, <a href="https://www.motorauthority.com/news/1134733_de-tomaso-completes-first-production-spec-p72-supercar" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">according to Motor Authority</a>. The photos show a massive 5.0-litre supercharged V-8. The mill, which is similar to that found in the second-generation Ford GT, will make over 700 hp and 640 ft lbs of torque.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/p7202.jpg-1024x576.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234794665" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/p7202.jpg-1024x576.webp 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/p7202.jpg-300x169.webp 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/p7202.jpg-768x432.webp 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/p7202.jpg.webp 1200w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">The P72’s 5.0-liter V-8 Image courtesy of De Tomaso Automobil</figcaption></figure>



De Tomaso plans to build 72 to examples of the P72, each of which will start at €1.6 million, which works out to around US$1.67 million (approximiately HK$12.98 million). The company has another more hardcore supercar, <a href="https://robbreport.com/motors/cars/de-tomaso-p900-track-only-hypercar-1234779314/" data-type="link" data-id="https://robbreport.com/motors/cars/de-tomaso-p900-track-only-hypercar-1234779314/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">the V-12-powered P900</a>, on the way as well.

De Tomaso

This HK$12.98 Million New Supercar Is De Tomaso’s Latest Comeback Bid

Why stop at one special edition when you can make five?



<a href="https://robbreport.com/tag/lotus/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Lotus</a> has just unveiled the new Emira Limited series. The exclusive model will be available in five different colourways, each of which is inspired by one of the automaker’s most beloved <a href="https://robbreport.com/tag/formula-1/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Formula 1</a> cars.



An F1 team hasn’t carried the automaker’s name in nearly a decade now, but it used to be a dominant force in the sport. Between 1963 and 1978, <a href="https://robbreport.com/motors/cars/first-lotus-type-12-formula-1-racer-bonhams-2024-monaco-auction-1235555158/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Team Lotus</a> won seven constructors and six driver’s championships. Its success extends past this period and some of F1’s most noted drivers spent time on the company payroll, including Jim Clark, Mario Andretti, and Ayrton Senna.



<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/emiralimited25.jpg-1024x576.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234794318" style="width:838px;height:auto" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/emiralimited25.jpg-1024x576.webp 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/emiralimited25.jpg-300x169.webp 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/emiralimited25.jpg-768x432.webp 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/emiralimited25.jpg.webp 1200w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Lotus Emira Limited inspired by the Type 25. Image courtesy of James Arbuckle/Lotus</figcaption></figure>



It is five of the Team Lotus race cars that provide the inspiration for the exclusive <a href="https://robbreport.com/motors/cars/first-drive-lotus-emira-1234847682/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Emiras</a>. The first of the special editions is inspired by the Type 25 that Clark drove to the constructor’s and driver’s championship in 1963. It finished in Verdant Green with yellow striping. It’s followed by the Type 72, which has a Shadow grey and gold design that includes a half Union Jack pattern on the side, just like that of the race car that won seven grand prix between 1977 and 1978. There’s also a blue Emira with red and white stripes just like those of the Type 86, the one-off prototype that inspired the Type 88.



Rounding the Emira Limited series out are two special editions inspired by race cars Senna drove in the 1980s, Team Lotus’s final full decade of operation. These include the Type 97T, which was the race car that the Brazilian drove to his first Grand Prix win in 1985. This model is also finished in dark Shadow Grey, with gold graphics (including the number 12 on both sides) and wheels. Finally, there’s the Type 99T, which is finished in vibrant yellow with blue accents, just like the car that Senna drove in the 1988 season, in which he finished third in the driver’s championship standing.



<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/emiralimited99t.jpg-1024x576.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234794319" style="width:838px;height:auto" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/emiralimited99t.jpg-1024x576.webp 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/emiralimited99t.jpg-300x169.webp 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/emiralimited99t.jpg-768x432.webp 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/emiralimited99t.jpg.webp 1200w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Lotus Emira Limited inspired by the Type 99T. Image courtesy of James Arbuckle/Lotus</figcaption></figure>



Emira Limited series cars may all have different liveries, but their powertrains are the same. All five models are powered by the same Mercedes-AMG-sourced turbocharged 2.0-litre inline-four. The mill is mated to an eight-speed dual-clutch transmission and makes 360 hp and 317 ft lbs of torque. The Emira isn’t as fast as an F1 car, but it can still sprint from zero to 60 mph in 4.4 seconds and hit a top speed of 171 mph.



Lotus plans to sell just 12 examples of each Emira Limited model. They start at €98,107, or about US$103,000 (approximately HK$800,810). Unfortunately, as of now, the exclusive editions will only be available to buy in Europe, continuing Emira’s <a href="https://robbreport.com/motors/cars/lotus-emira-us-delay-california-emissions-standards-1235488941/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">frustrating time in America</a>.



Click <a href="https://robbreport.com/motors/cars/gallery/photos-racing-inspired-lotus-emira-limited-series-1236120509" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">here</a> for more photos of the Lotus Emira Limited series.

Emira Limited series

Emiras

Formula 1

Formula 1 Cars

Lotus

race car

Lotus Just Unveiled 5 New Emiras Inspired by Its Greatest F1 Race Cars

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



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



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



<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
<iframe loading="lazy" title="Senna | Official Teaser | Netflix" width="500" height="281" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/LT7h6sUeUhU?feature=oembed" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen></iframe>
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The collaboration between the driver and watchmaker culminated in the release of his first signature timepiece, the <a href="https://magazine.tagheuer.com/en/2022/05/02/the-ultimate-collectors-guide-tag-heuer-senna-special-editions/#:~:text=1994%20%2D%20THE%20FIRST%20TAG%20HEUER%20SENNA%20SPECIAL%20EDITION&amp;text=The%20TAG%20Heuer%206000%20Senna,with%20the%20driver's%20creative%20involvement." target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">6000 Senna Limited Edition</a>, in 1994, the same year before he tragically died following an accident at the San Marino Grand Prix. The agreement to create the watch was <a href="https://www.tagheuer.com/is/en/vintage-collection/tag-heuer-6000-series.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">reached two days before the fatal crash</a> in Imola, Italy. Several references celebrating the driver have been released over the years, including two chronograph <a href="https://robbreport.com/style/watch-collector/gallery/best-new-tourbillons-2024-1235611370/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">tourbillons</a> in the Carrera collection in 2018 and 2019.



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



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



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



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



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

Ayrton Senna

TAG Heuer

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

Omega

Speedmaster

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

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



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/WAT04_Visuel-2_boucle-acier-PS_Nocturne_ind01.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234793707" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/WAT04_Visuel-2_boucle-acier-PS_Nocturne_ind01.webp 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/WAT04_Visuel-2_boucle-acier-PS_Nocturne_ind01-300x169.webp 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/WAT04_Visuel-2_boucle-acier-PS_Nocturne_ind01-768x432.webp 768w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Image courtesy of Orkos</figcaption></figure>



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



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/ORKOS-18MARS-_293.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234793706" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/ORKOS-18MARS-_293.webp 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/ORKOS-18MARS-_293-300x169.webp 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/ORKOS-18MARS-_293-768x432.webp 768w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Image courtesy of Orkos</figcaption></figure>



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



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/ORKOS-18MARS-_097.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234793705" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/ORKOS-18MARS-_097.webp 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/ORKOS-18MARS-_097-300x169.webp 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/ORKOS-18MARS-_097-768x432.webp 768w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Image courtesy of Orkos</figcaption></figure>



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

Orkos

Watchlock

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/PAtek-Cubitus-Two-Tone-with-Cuff-Links.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234793481" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/PAtek-Cubitus-Two-Tone-with-Cuff-Links.webp 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/PAtek-Cubitus-Two-Tone-with-Cuff-Links-300x169.webp 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/PAtek-Cubitus-Two-Tone-with-Cuff-Links-768x432.webp 768w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">The Cubitus two-tone with matching cuff links.</figcaption></figure>



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

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