<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

For its fifth edition of the Global Family Office Survey Insights report, <a href="https://www.privatebank.citibank.com/insights/the-family-office-survey?utm_source=RobbReportHK&amp;utm_medium=paid_referral&amp;utm_content=2024web&amp;utm_campaign=fosurvey24&amp;login=no" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Citi Private Bank</a> asked its global network of family-office clients 50 wide-ranging questions to gauge their sentiments and activities, as well as the trends and issues at the top of their agenda. Here are some important takeaways from the <a href="https://www.privatebank.citibank.com/insights/the-family-office-survey?utm_source=RobbReportHK&amp;utm_medium=paid_referral&amp;utm_content=2024web&amp;utm_campaign=fosurvey24&amp;login=no" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Global Family Office 2024 Survey</a> Insights.



<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/global-family-office-survey-insights-takeaway01-1024x683.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234792650" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/global-family-office-survey-insights-takeaway01-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/global-family-office-survey-insights-takeaway01-300x200.jpg 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/global-family-office-survey-insights-takeaway01-768x512.jpg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/global-family-office-survey-insights-takeaway01-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/global-family-office-survey-insights-takeaway01-2048x1365.jpg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>



From cash to risk assets



Cash holdings fell in 2024 as family offices put their liquid resources to work in the markets. Some 43 per cent of respondents increased their exposure to public and private equity, with the strongest shift into public equity recorded in Asia. Fewer family offices raised their weighting to cash—31 per cent compared to 47 per cent in 2023—while 37 per cent of respondents cut cash holdings in 2024. Allocations to real estate saw little overall movement, as in 2023. Meanwhile, half of those surveyed upped their allocation to fixed income.



<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/global-family-office-survey-insights-takeaway02-1024x683.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234792652" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/global-family-office-survey-insights-takeaway02-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/global-family-office-survey-insights-takeaway02-300x200.jpg 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/global-family-office-survey-insights-takeaway02-768x512.jpg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/global-family-office-survey-insights-takeaway02-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/global-family-office-survey-insights-takeaway02-2048x1365.jpg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>



Bullish expectations



Almost all respondents (97 per cent) had a positive outlook for portfolio returns over a 12-month horizon, a two-percentage point increase from 2023. Their optimism last year indeed gave way to upside, with over three quarters of respondents registering gains.



<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/global-family-office-survey-insights-takeaway03-1024x683.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234792653" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/global-family-office-survey-insights-takeaway03-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/global-family-office-survey-insights-takeaway03-300x200.jpg 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/global-family-office-survey-insights-takeaway03-768x512.jpg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/global-family-office-survey-insights-takeaway03-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/global-family-office-survey-insights-takeaway03-2048x1365.jpg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>



Future path of interest rates



The evolution of interest rates was a worry this year with some 52 per cent cited high and rising interest rates as a concern, overtaking inflation in the list of priorities. US-China relations and market overvaluation were also top of mind, mentioned by 45 per cent of respondents.



<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/global-family-office-survey-insights-takeaway04-1024x683.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234792654" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/global-family-office-survey-insights-takeaway04-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/global-family-office-survey-insights-takeaway04-300x200.jpg 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/global-family-office-survey-insights-takeaway04-768x512.jpg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/global-family-office-survey-insights-takeaway04-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/global-family-office-survey-insights-takeaway04-2048x1365.jpg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>



Sophisticated investment approaches



More and more family offices, around 60 per cent, are embracing sophisticated, disciplined processes, such as building in-house teams led by CIOs, creating investment committees, and introducing investment policy statements. Alternative investments are also receiving greater weight in portfolios.



<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/global-family-office-survey-insights-takeaway05-1024x683.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234792655" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/global-family-office-survey-insights-takeaway05-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/global-family-office-survey-insights-takeaway05-300x200.jpg 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/global-family-office-survey-insights-takeaway05-768x512.jpg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/global-family-office-survey-insights-takeaway05-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/global-family-office-survey-insights-takeaway05-2048x1365.jpg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>



Increasing leverage



Family offices are making strides in adopting institutional techniques. These include exploring active strategies to manage the risks of concentrated positions, such as derivative solutions. While nearly half of respondents were not leveraging their portfolio at all, two thirds were exploring their financing needs.



<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/global-family-office-survey-insights-takeaway06-1024x683.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234792656" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/global-family-office-survey-insights-takeaway06-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/global-family-office-survey-insights-takeaway06-300x200.jpg 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/global-family-office-survey-insights-takeaway06-768x512.jpg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/global-family-office-survey-insights-takeaway06-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/global-family-office-survey-insights-takeaway06-2048x1365.jpg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>



Gradual adoption of AI



While portfolio exposure to artificial intelligence (AI) has increased and it is likely a driver of the strong portfolio returns that many family offices saw over the past year, the adoption of generative AI within their operations is lagging, with just one in 10 family offices saying they were doing so. This is broadly similar to the situation across the business world.



<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/global-family-office-survey-insights-takeaway07-1024x683.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234792657" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/global-family-office-survey-insights-takeaway07-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/global-family-office-survey-insights-takeaway07-300x200.jpg 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/global-family-office-survey-insights-takeaway07-768x512.jpg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/global-family-office-survey-insights-takeaway07-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/global-family-office-survey-insights-takeaway07-2048x1365.jpg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>



Coping mechanisms



While 86 per cent of family office respondents identified at least eight areas of risk, most felt that they were handling them well. Cybersecurity, geopolitics, and family dynamics remained top concerns. Against this backdrop, many respondents mentioned risk management as a key responsibility of family office heads, second only to investment management.



<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/global-family-office-survey-insights-takeaway08-1024x683.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234792658" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/global-family-office-survey-insights-takeaway08-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/global-family-office-survey-insights-takeaway08-300x200.jpg 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/global-family-office-survey-insights-takeaway08-768x512.jpg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/global-family-office-survey-insights-takeaway08-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/global-family-office-survey-insights-takeaway08-2048x1366.jpg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>



Adopting formal governance



While two thirds of families relied on a governance system within investments, governance remains a work-in-progress across the broader family enterprise, such as other financial, business, philanthropic, and family activities. Almost half of survey respondents said they did not have a formal investment policy statement. The philanthropic decision-making process appears to be largely informal.



<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/global-family-office-survey-insights-takeaway09-1024x683.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234792659" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/global-family-office-survey-insights-takeaway09-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/global-family-office-survey-insights-takeaway09-300x200.jpg 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/global-family-office-survey-insights-takeaway09-768x512.jpg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/global-family-office-survey-insights-takeaway09-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/global-family-office-survey-insights-takeaway09-2048x1365.jpg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>



Balancing finance and family



Addressing wealth management and family matters remained top priorities for family offices and the families they serve. Family matters embrace the likes of fostering family unity and continuity, such as preparing the next generation for their future responsibilities as stewards of wealth. However, many family offices often find it a struggle to fulfil both mandates. Over half of them said that meeting family expectations were now an ever-greater priority than adapting to shifting market conditions.



<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/global-family-office-survey-insights-takeaway10-1024x683.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234792660" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/global-family-office-survey-insights-takeaway10-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/global-family-office-survey-insights-takeaway10-300x200.jpg 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/global-family-office-survey-insights-takeaway10-768x512.jpg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/global-family-office-survey-insights-takeaway10-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/global-family-office-survey-insights-takeaway10-2048x1365.jpg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>



External collaboration



Serving families effectively increasingly requires collaboration with external parties. Family offices reported more collaboration with such partners, as they further professionalised their operations and investment functions. Investment management and reporting services are most commonly performed in-house, while other tasks are carried out externally or in collaboration with external providers.



Read the full Citi Private Bank Global Family Office 2024 Survey Insights <a href="https://www.privatebank.citibank.com/insights/the-family-office-survey?utm_source=RobbReportHK&amp;utm_medium=paid_referral&amp;utm_content=2024web&amp;utm_campaign=fosurvey24&amp;login=no" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">here</a>.<a id="_msocom_1"></a>

Citi Private Bank

family offices

Global Family Office Survey Insights

Citi Private Bank Revealed Its 2024 Global Family Office Survey Insights. Here Are 10 Key Takeaways You Should Know.

Currently with 17 editions in 29 countries and territories, Robb Report Hong Kong is recognised as the leading voice for its discerning global UHNW audience that appreciates and desires quality, exclusivity, heritage, taste, and fine design. Robb Report is synonymous with affluence, luxury, and the best of the best, and it belongs under Penske Media Corporation (PMC), which includes globally acclaimed media titles and event IPs in its portfolio, such as Billboard, WWD, Variety, Rolling Stone, The Hollywood Reporter, SXSW, Sourcing Journal, Beauty Inc, American Music Awards, and many more.



Robb Report Hong Kong is the region&#8217;s definitive luxury lifestyle media title, highlighting the very finest in luxury living. Alongside its prestigious annual Best of the Best print magazine, Robb Report Hong Kong publishes daily digital content and serves as the ultimate guide to lifestyle and luxury in the city.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="840" height="592" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/Screenshot_2023-02-17_at_11.13.38_AM_50_1_50.png" alt="" class="wp-image-1234771953" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/Screenshot_2023-02-17_at_11.13.38_AM_50_1_50.png 840w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/Screenshot_2023-02-17_at_11.13.38_AM_50_1_50-300x211.png 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/Screenshot_2023-02-17_at_11.13.38_AM_50_1_50-768x541.png 768w" sizes="(max-width: 840px) 100vw, 840px" /></figure>



With this strategic investment, Robb Report Hong Kong will work with Saint Bella to invite its selected ultra-high-net-worth clientele to apply for the global RR1 membership, which allows privileged access to international RR1 events. RR1 is a by-invitation-only private members’ community that gives its discerning members access to one-of-a-kind luxury experiences curated by Robb Report, bringing the pages of the magazine to life. As the leading voice of luxury, Robb Report is strategically positioned to provide RR1 members with exclusive access to the most influential and extraordinary experiences around the world.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="682" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/KE_04496-min-2048x1365-1-1024x682.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234788436" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/KE_04496-min-2048x1365-1-1024x682.jpg 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/KE_04496-min-2048x1365-1-300x200.jpg 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/KE_04496-min-2048x1365-1-768x512.jpg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/KE_04496-min-2048x1365-1-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/KE_04496-min-2048x1365-1-2048x1365.jpg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>



RR1 members may also gain one-of-a-kind access to select experiences under various PMC titles and IPs, such as the Golden Globes, SXSW Austin, SXSW Sydney, Billboard Music Awards, American Music Awards, Life is Beautiful, WWD, Red Sea Week, Culinary Masters, Car of the Year, House of Robb, and more.



Saint Bella Holdings Limited, parent company of SAINT BELLA, the leading luxury family care brand in Asia, has announced a strategic equity investment as a shareholder in Nexus Media Limited, publisher of Robb Report Hong Kong and its RR1 private membership community, bringing the company’s valuation to over HK$100 million.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="694" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/Picture-31-1024x694.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234788433" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/Picture-31-1024x694.jpg 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/Picture-31-300x203.jpg 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/Picture-31-768x521.jpg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/Picture-31-1536x1041.jpg 1536w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/Picture-31-2048x1388.jpg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>



Saint Bella Holdings Limited is an award-winning leader in luxury family care across Asia, offering an unparalleled suite of premium and ultra-premium services and products. These include top-tier postpartum care centres, comprehensive home child care, wellness and nutritional supplements, and specialised elderly care. Its flagship luxury brand, SAINT BELLA, is the largest ultra-premium maternity care provider, serving over 10,000 members and clients annually across more than 25 cities in Asia and now expanding into the US.



“I am pleased to announce that this investment will create mutual benefit for Saint Bella and Robb Report Hong Kong through the RR1 private membership and access to global events that will build a stronger network of UHNW individuals for the global RR1 programme,” says Tak Man, CEO and founder of Nexus Media Limited and publisher of Robb Report Hong Kong. “As part of our exclusive social community, members enjoy truly unique access to luxury with a remarkable group of peers who share similar passions. Lifelong friendships and unforgettable memories are made among a community of connoisseurs at RR1 events around the world.”



CEO of Saint Bella, Danny Xiang, is delighted to announce this strategic equity investment. It is a great opportunity for the two companies to work together and provide access to unique global luxury experiences for UHNW clientele.



“We are excited to partner with Nexus Media Limited to bring the exclusive luxury experiences of Robb Report RR1 membership and PMC networks to Saint Bella’s distinguished clientele worldwide. This collaboration will introduce the esteemed RR1 membership to our ultra-high-net-worth clients in Asia. Together with Robb Report Hong Kong, we are redefining luxury maternity experiences for families globally, creating a unique community with access to unparalleled, one-of-a-kind luxury offerings.”



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="762" height="1024" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/Picture-41-762x1024.jpeg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234788434" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/Picture-41-762x1024.jpeg 762w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/Picture-41-223x300.jpeg 223w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/Picture-41-768x1032.jpeg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/Picture-41-1143x1536.jpeg 1143w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/Picture-41.jpeg 1182w" sizes="(max-width: 762px) 100vw, 762px" /></figure>



Saint Bella Holdings Limited has a diverse portfolio of investors, including Tencent, C Capital, Swire Properties New Ventures, Mirae Asset, and China Life, and it has recently raised US$100 million over a Series C fundraising round.



About Nexus Media Limited



Tak Man founded Nexus Media Limited as a privately owned company under Nexus Media Group. Nexus Media Limited is the licensed publisher of Robb Report Hong Kong. Nexus Media Group includes media companies that specialise in the commercialisation of international titles, custom publishing, live events and experiences, digital media platforms, and more.



About Saint Bella Holdings Limited



SAINT BELLA stands at the forefront of luxury family care services, driven by a vision to become the world’s leading provider and redefine excellence in care for a new generation of families. Established in 2017, Saint Bella Holdings Limited has attracted strategic investment from renowned partners and institutions, quickly establishing a presence along the value chains of top online portals, insurance, and properties.



Its group-wide business covers a wide range of services, including maternal and child care, home child care, internet hospitals, wellness and nutritional supplements, elderly care and investment. Saint Bella Holdings Limited is known for its acclaimed sub-brands SAINT BELLA, Bella ISLA, and Baby Bella, which are synonymous with unparalleled excellence and the largest and most influential high-end direct-operated postpartum care centres in Asia. With recent expansions into the USA and plans to establish presence in major global cities, Saint Bella Holdings Limited is poised to redefine family care on a truly global scale.

Investment

Robb Report Hong Kong

Saint Bella

Saint Bella Holdings Limited Invests in Nexus Media Limited, Setting the Company’s Valuation at HK$105 Million

In 2023, Singapore’s biggest bank, DBS Group,&nbsp;advocated for the “Return of 60/40” for optimal risk-reward investment, balancing income-generating bonds with secular-growth equities, and the strategy paid off handsomely, yielding 10.7 per cent in gains. It marks a highly successful year of earnings for the company, topping its own profit estimates.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="683" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/Photo-2-1024x683.jpeg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234786010" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/Photo-2-1024x683.jpeg 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/Photo-2-300x200.jpeg 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/Photo-2-768x512.jpeg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/Photo-2-1536x1024.jpeg 1536w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/Photo-2-2048x1365.jpeg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>



So what lies ahead, and how can investors continue to ride on this record-breaking wave of&nbsp;&nbsp;achievement? In its latest Q1 report, DBS outlines its assessment for 2024, with the prediction that current market conditions will serve as a supportive environment for risk assets.&nbsp;According to the company’s research, the efficacy of its Barbell Strategy, implemented last year, will continue to drive positive performance for growth stocks over value stocks. DBS also reveals that the shifting of consumer mindsets, driven by the demand for exclusivity, will redefine the luxury sector, as well as future-forward infrastructural spend.



Delve into the full report and case study&nbsp;<a href="https://www.dbs.com.sg/treasures/aics/investment-strategy/templatedata/article/generic/data/en/CIO/122023/CIOInsights1Q24.xml" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">here&nbsp;as DBS publishes its findings</a> for investors, and summarises its CIO insights for the first quarter of 2024.



All images courtesy of DBS.

Banking

Shifting Currents: DBS Forecast for Q1 2024 Underlines Quality Growth Plays

It’s a landmark year for Sotheby’s, celebrating and honouring 50 years in the region. Appropriately, this autumnal season, Sotheby’s Hong Kong will showcase an extraordinary series of evening previews and auctions starting this week.



Looking at the catalogue of treasures that are up for interest and bidding, the breadth and range of items ripe for the picking are magnificent in scope and provenance. Some of the highlights that stand out include dazzling diamonds, rare watches, and vintage artifacts.



From the luxury lot, here’s what caught our eye.



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



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="683" height="1024" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/HK1399_CR776_T1_06_EN_RS-683x1024.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234780464" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/HK1399_CR776_T1_06_EN_RS-683x1024.jpg 683w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/HK1399_CR776_T1_06_EN_RS-200x300.jpg 200w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/HK1399_CR776_T1_06_EN_RS-768x1152.jpg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/HK1399_CR776_T1_06_EN_RS-1024x1536.jpg 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/HK1399_CR776_T1_06_EN_RS-1365x2048.jpg 1365w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/HK1399_CR776_T1_06_EN_RS.jpg 1600w" sizes="(max-width: 683px) 100vw, 683px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">The Infinite Blue</figcaption></figure>



All that glitters is not gold, but, in fact, diamonds of note. “The Infinite Blue” is a single-lot sale offering a captivating 11.28-carat fancy vivid blue diamond ring that has already made international headlines for its size, novelty, and richness of hue. Originating from the legendary Cullinan mine, it is one of the rarest stones to be set in a magnificent ring. In comparison, the 12-carat Blue Moon of Josephine (and sourced from the same mine) set an auction per-carat price record of US$4 million (HK$31.30 million) in 2015 at Sotheby’s.&nbsp;



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="1024" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/HK1358_CS4HY_T3_01_RS-1024x1024.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234780463" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/HK1358_CS4HY_T3_01_RS-1024x1024.jpg 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/HK1358_CS4HY_T3_01_RS-300x300.jpg 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/HK1358_CS4HY_T3_01_RS-150x150.jpg 150w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/HK1358_CS4HY_T3_01_RS-768x768.jpg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/HK1358_CS4HY_T3_01_RS-1536x1536.jpg 1536w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/HK1358_CS4HY_T3_01_RS-2048x2048.jpg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Cartier’s “Tutti Frutti” gem-set, diamond, and enamel bracelet</figcaption></figure>



For a splash of colour and a 1920s Art Deco vibe, there’s&nbsp;Cartier’s “Tutti Frutti” gem-set, diamond, and enamel bracelet. The detailing of the piece is a delicate balance of precious stones;&nbsp;sapphires, rubies, and emeralds are accented by diamonds, mounted in platinum.&nbsp;This is a timeless collector’s&nbsp;piece for any Cartier enthusiast.&nbsp;



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="683" height="1024" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/HK1399_CS39G_04_T1_EN_ST_RS-683x1024.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234780465" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/HK1399_CS39G_04_T1_EN_ST_RS-683x1024.jpg 683w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/HK1399_CS39G_04_T1_EN_ST_RS-200x300.jpg 200w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/HK1399_CS39G_04_T1_EN_ST_RS-768x1152.jpg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/HK1399_CS39G_04_T1_EN_ST_RS-1024x1536.jpg 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/HK1399_CS39G_04_T1_EN_ST_RS-1365x2048.jpg 1365w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/HK1399_CS39G_04_T1_EN_ST_RS.jpg 1600w" sizes="(max-width: 683px) 100vw, 683px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Jadeite Tianchi</figcaption></figure>



The Jadeite Tianchi, a demi-parure of jadeite cabochons and diamonds. For a consistent and perfect texture, the precious stones must have come from a single, impeccable source, making this piece truly exceptional for its rarity and quality. The name of the jewel alludes to “a transcendent scene akin to a goddess bestowing heavenly lakes upon the mortal realm.”&nbsp;



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



A fine curation that includes 50 watches from important Asian collectors spanning some of the most renowned watchmakers, we’ve got our eyes on three particular timepieces.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="681" height="1024" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/HK1354_CSQ25_074_05_T1_IG_RS-681x1024.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234780466" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/HK1354_CSQ25_074_05_T1_IG_RS-681x1024.jpg 681w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/HK1354_CSQ25_074_05_T1_IG_RS-199x300.jpg 199w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/HK1354_CSQ25_074_05_T1_IG_RS-768x1156.jpg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/HK1354_CSQ25_074_05_T1_IG_RS-1021x1536.jpg 1021w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/HK1354_CSQ25_074_05_T1_IG_RS-1361x2048.jpg 1361w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/HK1354_CSQ25_074_05_T1_IG_RS.jpg 1595w" sizes="(max-width: 681px) 100vw, 681px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">RM 53-02</figcaption></figure>



While Richard Mille is no stranger to outlandish designs and boundary-pushing feats, the current watch is among one of their most daring pieces. A body sculpted almost purely from highly scratch-resistant blue sapphire crystal, each unit of the RM 53-02 requires more than 1,000 hours of craftsmanship to be shaped, polished, and finished to the glare-proof, sleek appearance that culminates in the final product—a process that no doubt solidifies the multi-curved blue&nbsp;sapphire case of the RM 53-02 as one of the most impressive to ever grace the fine horological scene. Combined with the double skeletonised baseplate, this blue&nbsp;sapphire case not only provides a lightweight canvas for the watch, but its transparency promises a truly three-dimensional experience that places the impressive cable-suspended tourbillon movement at the centre of attention. Of course, as a Richard Mille timepiece, the spectacle inside is also nothing short of awe-inspiring.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="683" height="1024" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/HK1354_cover_back_fullres_RS-683x1024.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234780467" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/HK1354_cover_back_fullres_RS-683x1024.jpg 683w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/HK1354_cover_back_fullres_RS-200x300.jpg 200w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/HK1354_cover_back_fullres_RS-768x1152.jpg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/HK1354_cover_back_fullres_RS-1024x1536.jpg 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/HK1354_cover_back_fullres_RS-1365x2048.jpg 1365w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/HK1354_cover_back_fullres_RS.jpg 1600w" sizes="(max-width: 683px) 100vw, 683px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Nishiki Star</figcaption></figure>



Fresh to the market, the Nishiki Star comes directly from the family of the original owner who received it as a present from his business partner sometime around 1955. In its original condition, the present lot offers a unique opportunity to acquire a fantastic example of this trophy reference, which stands as the pinnacle of vintage Rolex collecting when the world was finally free from war and restraints. Among vintage Rolex enthusiasts, reference 6062 has become one of the most sought after and acclaimed references. Debuting at Baselworld in 1950, and only five years after the introduction of the first Datejust, reference 6062 was Rolex’s first and unique reference with an automatic triple calendar with moon phases alongside the non-Oyster sister reference 8171, making it one of the most complicated models ever conceived by the Swiss brand. With a very short production timeline which started in 1950 and ceased in 1953, it is calculated that only around 350 examples were ever made, which increases their desirability.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="684" height="1024" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/HK1354_CS82W_053_05_T1_IG_RS-684x1024.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234780468" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/HK1354_CS82W_053_05_T1_IG_RS-684x1024.jpg 684w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/HK1354_CS82W_053_05_T1_IG_RS-200x300.jpg 200w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/HK1354_CS82W_053_05_T1_IG_RS-768x1151.jpg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/HK1354_CS82W_053_05_T1_IG_RS-1025x1536.jpg 1025w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/HK1354_CS82W_053_05_T1_IG_RS-1367x2048.jpg 1367w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/HK1354_CS82W_053_05_T1_IG_RS.jpg 1602w" sizes="(max-width: 684px) 100vw, 684px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Simplicity</figcaption></figure>



Philippe Dufour, arguably one of the most influential independent watchmakers in the world of horology, is a living legend renowned for his exceptional craftsmanship in hand-making watches from start to finish. Born in 1948 in Le Sentier, Vallée de Joux, Dufour comes from a family of watchmakers, with both his parents being part of the trade. After graduating from the Ecole d’Horlogerie in 1967, he began working at renowned watch manufacturers, but soon shifted his focus towards the restoration of antique and vintage timepieces. During this time, while restoring these watches, Dufour developed a deep fascination with the intricate complications concealed beneath their dials. Taking on his passion, Dufour began to create his own pieces. Following the successful of the Grande Sonnerie and Petite Sonnerie, the Simplicity was introduced in 2000. Fresh to the market and consigned by the original owner, this offering presents a highly uncommon opportunity for the public market, showcasing the master watchmaker’s exceptional precision, patience, and craftmanship.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Luxury Handbags</h3>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="678" height="1024" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/HKMRKT_CNN4R_T3_02_RS-678x1024.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234780469" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/HKMRKT_CNN4R_T3_02_RS-678x1024.jpg 678w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/HKMRKT_CNN4R_T3_02_RS-199x300.jpg 199w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/HKMRKT_CNN4R_T3_02_RS-768x1160.jpg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/HKMRKT_CNN4R_T3_02_RS-1017x1536.jpg 1017w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/HKMRKT_CNN4R_T3_02_RS-1356x2048.jpg 1356w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/HKMRKT_CNN4R_T3_02_RS.jpg 1589w" sizes="(max-width: 678px) 100vw, 678px" /></figure>



For fashionistas and purveyors of designer gear, it should come as no surprise that Hermès accessories—especially limited-edition pieces made of premium, rare, and exotic materials—are alternative investment items you can take to the bank (rather literally). If you would like to skip the two- to five-year waitlist, depending on the bag, then hail your hands high when the Hermès Malachite Matte Alligator Quelle Idole (2019) bag goes under the hammer. While the starting bid may be HK$700,000 for the limited-edition Sterling Silver Kellymorphose (2021), also from Hermès, we estimate the lucky bidder ought to expect to hand over a cool million.&nbsp;



But wait—there’s so much more. For motor enthusiasts, a 1989 Lamborghini Countach 25th Anniversary Edition supercar that has to be seen to be believed, and two exceptional fossil specimens: an incredibly rare juvenile Gryposaurus from the Late Cretaceous period (approximately 100 million to 66 million years ago), as well as a remarkably well-preserved skull of a woolly mammoth dating from the Pleistocene period (2.6 million–10,000 years ago), featuring&nbsp;a striking pair of vivianite-swirled tusks, lending them a unique blue colour.



Save the date—it’s a fabulous time to bear witness to or be a part of the winning bid.



<a rel="noreferrer noopener" href="http://sothebys.com/hk" data-type="link" data-id="sothebys.com/hk" target="_blank">Sotheby’s Hong Kong Autumn Sales</a>



2–9 October 2023



Exhibition



2–8 October 2023



Hall 1, Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre, 1 Expo Drive, Wan Chai



For more information and exhibition details, please visit <a rel="noreferrer noopener" href="http://sothebys.com/hk" data-type="link" data-id="sothebys.com/hk" target="_blank">sothebys.com/hk</a>.



All images courtesy of Sotheby’s.

Auction

Autumn Auction

Hong Kong

Important watches

jewellery

Sotheby's

Watches

Sotheby’s Gears Up For Its “50 Years in Asia” Autumn Auctions this October

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



A flock of avid bidders pushed the price of&nbsp;<a href="https://robbreport.com/tag/princess-diana/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Princess Diana</a>’s iconic&nbsp;<a rel="noreferrer noopener" href="https://robbreport.com/shelter/art-collectibles/princess-diana-black-sheep-sweater-auction-1234858747/" target="_blank">“Black Sheep” sweater</a>&nbsp;to record heights at Sotheby’s on Thursday.



The red knit, famously worn by Lady Di at a polo match in the 1980s, absolutely obliterated pre-<a href="https://robbreport.com/tag/auction/">auction</a>&nbsp;estimates to hammer down for US$1.1 million (HK$8,597,374.5) at a sale in New York. It is now the most valuable sweater ever sold at auction, comfortably eclipsing a&nbsp;<a rel="noreferrer noopener" href="https://robbreport.com.au/style/kurt-cobains-mtv-unplugged-cardigan-is-expected-to-fetch-more-than-290000-at-auction/" target="_blank">Kurt Cobain cardigan</a>&nbsp;that achieved US$334,000 (HK$2,610,694)in 2019. It also set an auction record for any piece of Diana’s clothing, surpassing her&nbsp;<a rel="noreferrer noopener" href="https://robbreport.com/lifestyle/news/purple-gown-princess-diana-1991-royal-sold-for-450000-at-auction-1234802140/" target="_blank">Victor Edelstein</a>&nbsp;evening dress that sold for $604,800 earlier this year.



The jumper, which was recently rediscovered by its makers Joanna Osborne and Sally Muir, attracted a total of 44 bids in its first market appearance. The sale culminated in a fierce 15-minute bidding battle that drove the price from US$190,000 (HK$1,484,990.6) up to US$1.1 million (HK$8.6 million). The final sum was 14 times the original high estimate of US$80,000 (HK$625,259).



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full is-resized"><img decoding="async" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/Diana_Sweater1.jpg.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234780206" style="width:651px" width="651" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/Diana_Sweater1.jpg.webp 1000w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/Diana_Sweater1.jpg-300x169.webp 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/Diana_Sweater1.jpg-768x432.webp 768w" sizes="(max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Princess Diana’s&nbsp;<a rel="noreferrer noopener" href="https://robbreport.com/shelter/art-collectibles/princess-diana-black-sheep-sweater-auction-1234858747/" target="_blank">“Black Sheep” sweater</a>&nbsp;sold for US$1.1 million. Courtesy of&nbsp;<a href="https://robbreport.com/tag/sothebys/">Sotheby’s</a></figcaption></figure>



The knit was one of the first pieces Osborne and Muir designed for Warm &amp; Wonderful and helped push the British label into the public eye. The original design was missing for decades but the duo found it earlier this year while searching for an old pattern in an attic.



“Since stumbling upon the sweater in March of this year, we have been reliving the fond memories of Princess Diana appearing on the front pages of every newspaper in 1981, wearing our very own sweater,” the designers said in a statement. “While we are forever indebted to her for the impact this had on our business, our deepest appreciation lies in the knowledge that she shared a unique connection to the black sheep design.”



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full is-resized"><img decoding="async" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/WarmWonderful.jpg-2.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234780207" style="width:650px" width="650" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/WarmWonderful.jpg-2.webp 1000w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/WarmWonderful.jpg-2-300x169.webp 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/WarmWonderful.jpg-2-768x432.webp 768w" sizes="(max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Warm &amp; Wonderful’s “Diana Edition” Sheep Sweater.</figcaption></figure>



Warm &amp; Wonderful stopped producing the sweater in 1994 but&nbsp;<a rel="noreferrer noopener" href="https://robbreport.com/style/fashion/princess-diana-sweater-warm-and-wonderful-1234642675/" target="_blank">resurrected the design</a>&nbsp;in 2020 with Jack Carlson of Rowing Blazers. The contemporary iteration can be purchased via Warm &amp; Wonderful or&nbsp;<a rel="noreferrer noopener" href="https://clicks.trx-hub.com/xid/pmc_0aaa4_robbreport?q=https%3A%2F%2Frowing-blazers.sjv.io%2Fc%2F256585%2F1392538%2F16616%3FsubId1%3DRR--%26u%3Dhttps%253A%252F%252Frowingblazers.com%252Fproducts%252Fmens-cotton-sheep-sweater%253Fvariant%253D41035115855906&amp;p=https%3A%2F%2Frobbreport.com%2Fstyle%2Fmenswear%2Fprincess-diana-black-sheep-sweater-auction-record-1234897755%2F&amp;ref=https%3A%2F%2Frobbreport.com%2Fstyle%2Fmenswear%2Fprincess-diana-black-sheep-sweater-auction-record-1234897755%2F&amp;event_type=click&amp;trx-iid=iid1695087057814efi" target="_blank">Rowing Blazers for US$248</a> (HK1,938). That’s a steal compared to US$1.1 million.



<a rel="noreferrer noopener" href="https://clicks.trx-hub.com/xid/pmc_0aaa4_robbreport?q=https%3A%2F%2Frowing-blazers.sjv.io%2Fc%2F256585%2F1392538%2F16616%3FsubId1%3DRR--%26u%3Dhttps%3A%2F%2Frowingblazers.com%2Fproducts%2Fmens-cotton-sheep-sweater%3Fvariant%3D41035115855906&amp;p=https%3A%2F%2Frobbreport.com%2Fstyle%2Fmenswear%2Fprincess-diana-black-sheep-sweater-auction-record-1234897755%2F&amp;ref=https%3A%2F%2Frobbreport.com%2Fstyle%2Fmenswear%2Fprincess-diana-black-sheep-sweater-auction-record-1234897755%2F&amp;event_type=click&amp;trx-iid=iid1695087057814efi" target="_blank">BUY NOW ON ROWING BLAZERS: US$248/HK$1938</a>

highest bid

millions

Princess Diana

Sweater

Princess Diana’s Iconic ‘Black Sheep’ Sweater Just Sold for a Record HK$8.6 Million at Auction

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

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

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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

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Delta airlines

Luxury Travel

Delta Is Pulling Out All the Stops to Woo Luxury Travellers

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

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starliner spacecraft return

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

Beond

italy

jetsetting

luxury aircrafts

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Milan

Luxury Airline Beond Is Now Flying Between Milan and the Maldives

Heart Aerospace is almost ready for takeoff.



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

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Heart Aerospace

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

Chinese couture

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

This year marks the 10th anniversary of my first visit to Giacomo Conterno. Hosted by Roberto Conterno, the third-generation winemaker at the helm of arguably Piedmont’s most famed estate, we spent four wonderful hours together tasting wines both in the cellar, and later in his reception lounge, while enjoying some local cheeses and meats.&nbsp;



Roberto Conterno is not like many Italian winemakers I have met. Firstly, he’s serious and fastidious. A clean freak, the cellar is always spotless. While tasting wine from one of his barrels, he almost had a coronary when a few drops of red wine spilled from his pipette onto the cellar floor. We met again a few years later, and nothing had changed, except he was keen to show me his new range of glassware, Sensory, that he had designed to taste with wines from any region. In the process, he opened some very pricey wines from Burgundy and Bordeaux to prove his point. Convinced by the taste test, I purchased the first 36 glasses sold in the UK market.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="697" height="1024" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Roberto_2015-1394x2048.jpg-697x1024.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234791428" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Roberto_2015-1394x2048.jpg-697x1024.webp 697w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Roberto_2015-1394x2048.jpg-204x300.webp 204w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Roberto_2015-1394x2048.jpg-768x1128.webp 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Roberto_2015-1394x2048.jpg-1046x1536.webp 1046w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Roberto_2015-1394x2048.jpg.webp 1394w" sizes="(max-width: 697px) 100vw, 697px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Roberto Conterno.</figcaption></figure>



Roberto is deeply respectful of the terroir that he inherited from his late father, Giovanni. This includes the fourteen-hectare monopole (solely owned designated vineyard) of Cascina Francia, in what is considered the best village in Barolo, Serralunga d’Alba. 400 metres in altitude, it includes 9.4 hectares of Nebbiolo, the varietal he uses in his Barolo designated wines. In 2008, Roberto increased the estate’s landholdings by acquiring three hectares of Cerretta, another well regarded vineyard in the village. Finally, in 2015, he purchased Arione, a highly-sought after nine-hectare vineyard situated next to Cascina Francia. 



Although the estate makes more than 10 cuvées, undoubtedly the best is Monfortino Riserva. An iconic wine designed for long-ageing, it has more than a hundred years of history since the inaugural 1920 vintage. Monfortino Riserva is aged for a minimum of seven years in either 50-plus-year-old Slavonian oak or newer Austrian Franz Stockinger large casks. 



Returning from the First World War, Roberto’s grandfather, Giacomo, had the vision to create a unique bottling of Nebbiolo, sourcing the best grapes from different growers at a time when wine was typically sold in cask or purchased by local merchants for blending. Only from 1978 was the first Monfortino produced from grapes sourced from the family’s own Cascina Francia vineyard. 



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="683" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/cantina-2015-2048x1365.jpg-1024x683.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234791429" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/cantina-2015-2048x1365.jpg-1024x683.webp 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/cantina-2015-2048x1365.jpg-300x200.webp 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/cantina-2015-2048x1365.jpg-768x512.webp 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/cantina-2015-2048x1365.jpg-1536x1024.webp 1536w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/cantina-2015-2048x1365.jpg.webp 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>



I first realised that Monfortino Riserva was one of the world’s greatest wines when I purchased some very old bottles from a little wine shop in Alba fifteen years ago: 1955, 1961, and 1978, all legendary vintages. Opening them at various dinners, they all performed remarkably well. The 1955 vintage had a bizarre trajectory. On opening, it buzzed with aromas of violets, rose petals, and a hint of tar, collapsing to oblivion within 20 minutes of pouring. The wine in my glass had become a deadly shade of pale.  However, after a further 30 minutes, it had miraculously revived and was as good as when it had first been poured. The greatest comeback since Lazarus!



Monfortino Riserva is still Italy’s reference fine wine. It is also one of (if not the) most expensive, with many vintages selling in the secondary market for more than £1,000 (HK$10,370) per 75cl bottle. But it’s worth every penny. Fear not, however. Roberto’s other bottlings, in particular Cerretta and Arione, are incredible wines that cost a fraction of the price of Monfortino Riserva. 



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="683" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Facciata-2048x1365.jpg-1024x683.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234791430" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Facciata-2048x1365.jpg-1024x683.webp 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Facciata-2048x1365.jpg-300x200.webp 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Facciata-2048x1365.jpg-768x512.webp 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Facciata-2048x1365.jpg-1536x1024.webp 1536w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Facciata-2048x1365.jpg.webp 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Lewis’s Best 3 Wines from Giacomo Conterno</h2>



Giacomo Conterno, Monfortino Riserva, 2010: An iron fist in a velvet glove is the most apt description of a wine full of power and grace that will no doubt be showing well for the next fifty-plus years. Monfortino is known for aromas of leather, liquorice, incense, and dried rose petals, and this wine has it in abundance.  However, the coup de grâce was the extremely long finish that captivates you to drink the rest of the bottle before your wife reaches for the bottle. 



Giacomo Conterno, Monfortino Riserva, 2002: I was lucky enough to try the 2001 and 2002 (in magnums) together at a dinner in Turin. It was a close toss-up as to which gave greater pleasure. However, the 2002 got the nod as I was wowed by the balsamic and black tea aromas, savoury sweet mid-palate, and the silky but firm tannins. Just divine.



Giacomo Conterno, Monfortino Riserva, 1955: You just can’t beat having a wine that’s older than oneself and marvelling at how it can make you smile. The flowery petal notes, the intensity of the palate despite the wine having lost almost all its colour, and a long delicate finish. The fact that the wine died and then revived miraculously only added to the long-lived memory of its happy consumption. 



The 2024 edition of the Golden Vines awards will take place in Madrid between&nbsp;25–27&nbsp;October 2024. Visit&nbsp;<a href="https://liquidicons.com/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">liquidicons.com</a>.



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

Barolo

Giacomo Conterno

King of Wines

Roberto Conterno

vineyard

Wine

Barolo is the ‘King of Wines’—and This Vineyard is its Crowning Glory

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.

Christie's

High Jewellery

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

If you’ve ever heard composer Johannes Brahms’s Violin Concerto in D Major, you may have already experienced the magic of the Joachim-Ma Stradivarius.&nbsp;



The world-famous violin is estimated to go under the hammer at Sotheby’s <a href="https://robbreport.com/tag/new-york/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">New York</a> next month where it’s estimated to fetch anywhere from US$12 million (approximately HK$93.32 million) to US$18 million (approximately HK$140 million), a sum that would break the record for the most expensive instrument ever sold, Bloomberg <a href="https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2024-12-04/most-expensive-instrument-rare-stradivarius-violin-auction-could-break-record?srnd=phx-pursuits" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">reported</a> on Wednesday. The Lady Blunt Stradivarius, formerly owned by the granddaughter of British Romantic poet Lord Byron, had previously set the record for the highest price paid for a musical keepsake, fetching US$15.9 million (approximately HK$123.65 million) in 2011.



Legendary Hungarian violinist Joseph Joachim owned the Joachim-Ma Stradivarius, which was crafted by Antonio Stradivari in 1714, in the 19th century. Joachim performed with the instrument at Brahms’s previously mentioned concerto in 1879, which today is considered one of the most famous and celebrated pieces of classical&nbsp;<a href="https://robbreport.com/tag/music/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">music</a>&nbsp;ever played on a violin. &nbsp;



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large is-resized"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="745" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Joachim-Ma-Stradivarius-12.jpg-1024x745.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234793995" style="width:839px;height:auto" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Joachim-Ma-Stradivarius-12.jpg-1024x745.webp 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Joachim-Ma-Stradivarius-12.jpg-300x218.webp 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Joachim-Ma-Stradivarius-12.jpg-768x559.webp 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Joachim-Ma-Stradivarius-12.jpg.webp 1200w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">The Joachim-Ma Stradivarius violin could fetch a record US$18 million at <a href="https://robbreport.com/tag/auction/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">auction</a>. Image courtesy of Sotheby’s</figcaption></figure>



“Stradivarius violins, with their depth and warmth, are regarded as the best instruments that Stradivari made, and Stradivari is the best of the best,” Mari-Claudia Jiménez, Sotheby’s chairman and president for the Americas and head of global business development, told Bloomberg.&nbsp;



Nearly 90 years later,&nbsp;the late Chinese-American musician Si-Hon Ma purchased the violin and used it all the way until his passing in 2009 at the age of 84. Before his death, he ended up donating the stringed instrument to his alma mater, the New England Conservatory (NEC). Now, the school has teamed up with the auction house to sell the instrument under Ma’s condition that all proceeds go toward supporting student scholarships. &nbsp;



<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/Joachim-Ma-Stradivarius-.jpg-1024x576.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234793996" style="width:838px;height:auto" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Joachim-Ma-Stradivarius-.jpg-1024x576.webp 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Joachim-Ma-Stradivarius-.jpg-300x169.webp 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Joachim-Ma-Stradivarius-.jpg-768x432.webp 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Joachim-Ma-Stradivarius-.jpg.webp 1200w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">The instrument was originally crafted by Antonio Stradivari in 1714. Image courtesy of Sotheby’s</figcaption></figure>



“After years of individual use by our students, now, we can establish the largest named student scholarship program in the history of NEC, honouring our mission to educate and train the next generation of musicians,” said Andrea Kalyn, president of NEC, in a <a href="https://www.sothebys.com/en/docs/pdf/pr-sothebys-unveils-the-legendary-joachim-ma-stradivarius.pdf?locale=en" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">press release</a>. “While it has been a privilege to have one of the world’s finest violins, this sale will be transformational for our students. It fulfils our responsibility to ensure a violin of this caliber is properly maintained and used as the concert instrument it was meant to be.” 



Ahead of the sale on 7 February during Sotheby’s Masters week, the Joachim-Ma Stradivarius will be shown to the public for viewing at Sotheby’s <a href="https://robbreport.com/tag/london/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">London</a> and <a href="https://robbreport.com/tag/hong-kong/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Hong Kong</a> locations.

Sotheby's Hong Kong

Sotheby's New York

Stradivarius

Violin

A 300-Year-Old Stradivarius Violin Could Sell for a Record HK$140 Million at Auction

<a href="https://robbreportmonaco.com/author/lewis-chester/"></a>The famed castle frontage of <a href="https://yquem.fr/int-en/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Château d’Yquem</a> dates from the days of Léon de Sauvage d’Yquem in 1711, before the estate passed through marriage to the long-time owners, the de Lur-Saluces family.  The history behind this château is simply unrivalled. Thomas Jefferson was enraptured by d’Yquem, in particular the 1784 vintage. Perhaps the most famed vintage of all was the “comet” vintage of 1811 which is on every d’Yquem lover’s bucket list. The 1855 Classification, which still resonates today, rated d’Yquem Premier Cru Supérieur, acknowledging that it was deemed higher than any other wine in the Bordeaux region. 



The sweetness in the wine comes, not from adding sugar, but from botrytised berries (known as Botrytis Cinerea or noble rot) that develop on the skins of the berries due to the micro-climatic conditions of the Sauternes region. Production costs for noble rot grapes are much higher than for still wine grapes, as it takes teams of experienced pickers to select only the best grapes over multiple tries or passages that they make in the vineyard over a period of weeks. Making sweet wine is not for the fainthearted or for those without a big balance sheet to support them.



<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/Chateau-dYquem-–-Bottles-Option-03-Copyright-Chateau-dYquem-2048x1366.jpg-1024x683.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234793741" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Chateau-dYquem-–-Bottles-Option-03-Copyright-Chateau-dYquem-2048x1366.jpg-1024x683.webp 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Chateau-dYquem-–-Bottles-Option-03-Copyright-Chateau-dYquem-2048x1366.jpg-300x200.webp 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Chateau-dYquem-–-Bottles-Option-03-Copyright-Chateau-dYquem-2048x1366.jpg-768x512.webp 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Chateau-dYquem-–-Bottles-Option-03-Copyright-Chateau-dYquem-2048x1366.jpg-1536x1025.webp 1536w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Chateau-dYquem-–-Bottles-Option-03-Copyright-Chateau-dYquem-2048x1366.jpg.webp 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>



Luckily for d’Yquem, LVMH bought the property in 1999 and have been dedicated to keep quality at the highest level, whereas many of their neighbours have dropped theirs to account for falling demand. Indeed, it is one of the wonders of the fine wine world why d’Yquem is always so superior in quality than anyone else in Sauternes or Barsac, the two principal villages making sweet wine in Bordeaux. Although the terroir, perched on the highest hill in the area (up to 80 metres), surrounded by large gravelly pebbles that store heat, and clay soils that retain water greatly assist in producing a majestic wine, we cannot ignore the custodians of the past and present, the de Lur-Saluces and now LVMH, in preserving the vineyard and investing into the wine. 



There is a misconception that sweet wines are either bad for your health and/or bad for the waistline.  In fact, the key criteria is actually the level of alcohol in the wine.  Alcohol has seven calories per gram, whereas sugar has four calories per gram. The level of sweetness is therefore less influential than the level of alcohol. At around 13 per cent ABV and people typically only having one glass of d’Yquem to satisfy themselves, the health and dietary programme is actually much better suited with d’Yquem than drinking two glasses of claret or Napa wine. 



<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/Chateau-dYquem-The-Estate-Option-01-Copyright-G.-Uferas-for-Chateau-dYquem.jpg-1024x683.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234793742" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Chateau-dYquem-The-Estate-Option-01-Copyright-G.-Uferas-for-Chateau-dYquem.jpg-1024x683.webp 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Chateau-dYquem-The-Estate-Option-01-Copyright-G.-Uferas-for-Chateau-dYquem.jpg-300x200.webp 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Chateau-dYquem-The-Estate-Option-01-Copyright-G.-Uferas-for-Chateau-dYquem.jpg-768x512.webp 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Chateau-dYquem-The-Estate-Option-01-Copyright-G.-Uferas-for-Chateau-dYquem.jpg-1536x1024.webp 1536w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Chateau-dYquem-The-Estate-Option-01-Copyright-G.-Uferas-for-Chateau-dYquem.jpg.webp 1620w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Image courtesy of Château d’Yquem © Gérard Uféras</figcaption></figure>



Nonetheless, the reduced amount of sweet wine being drunk today is in stark contrast to the past. Indeed, from the 18th century until the mid-20th century, most connoisseurs viewed the wines of Château d’Yquem—as well as other great sweet wine estates—as the very best expression of quality to be found in the wine world.  Modern palates have not found favour with our forefathers. 



For many of my wine loving friends, Christmas lunch tends to be the time when they whip out a favourite vintage of d’Yquem.  However, I don’t subscribe to this rule. I regularly try to pair d’Yquem not only with dessert or cheese, but also with first course dishes instead of white wine. Drinking a younger d’Yquem with a fish or egg course can be a truly enlightening pairing. What is beyond doubt is that these wines are among the very best expressions of fine wine available in the world today, and deserve their place at the top table. Like the phonetic translation in Mandarin, Château d’Yquem is a “drop of gold.” 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Best 3 Wines from Château d’Yquem&nbsp;</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="866" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Chateau-dYquem-–-Bottles-Option-04-Copyright-Chateau-dYquem.jpg-1024x866.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234793743" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Chateau-dYquem-–-Bottles-Option-04-Copyright-Chateau-dYquem.jpg-1024x866.webp 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Chateau-dYquem-–-Bottles-Option-04-Copyright-Chateau-dYquem.jpg-300x254.webp 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Chateau-dYquem-–-Bottles-Option-04-Copyright-Chateau-dYquem.jpg-768x650.webp 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Chateau-dYquem-–-Bottles-Option-04-Copyright-Chateau-dYquem.jpg.webp 1417w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>



Château d’Yquem 2001: When Pierre Lurton, the CEO of the estate, told me that the wine we were about to drink would last over 100 years, I suspected he was engaged in marketing talk. However, he was probably right. A wine of exceptional balance, vibrant acidity, exhibiting tons of honied fruits and sweet spices, and a sumptuous finish. Exceptional.



Château d’Yquem 1989: My go-to d’Yquem to serve at important occasions. I love the power, complexity, and silky texture of this wine. The marzipan, marmalade, and saffron notes are incredible alongside hints of tobacco aromas from the wood ageing. It also has continued to improve as time has passed—always an indicator of greatness.



Château d’Yquem 1945: A close friend told me this wine would be a disappointment, but in fact it was a revelation. Orange peel, bergamot, smokiness, nuts, and crème brûlée, and a thick dark coloured liquid that reminds you how well d’Yquem can age. Will be interesting to try alongside the 1811 vintage… at some point in my life!



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



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

Lewis Chester

wine producer

Discover the Sweet Secrets of Iconic Wine Producer Château d’Yquem

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, chairmain 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

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

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.



<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-vimeo wp-block-embed-vimeo"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
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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’

French Cuisine

Julian Royer

Loic Portalier

Louise

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

<a href="https://robbreport.com/tag/maldives/"></a>The <a href="https://robbreport.com/tag/maldives/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Maldives</a> is a beach-lover’s paradise, and now there’s one more reason to visit the Indian Ocean archipelago.



Sun Siyam Olhuveli, a luxury resort spread over three islands on the&nbsp;South Malé Atoll, just unveiled 40 brand-new beachfront suites. Located on the&nbsp;<a href="https://robbreport.com/tag/hotel/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">hotel</a>’s so-called Dream Island, each of the recently constructed room features a private plunge pool, while lush tropical gardens and crystal blue waters are just feet from your lodgings.&nbsp;<a href="https://robbreport.com/tag/hotel/"></a>



<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/Sun-Siyam-Olhuveli-suites.jpg-1024x576.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234794299" style="width:839px;height:auto" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Sun-Siyam-Olhuveli-suites.jpg-1024x576.webp 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Sun-Siyam-Olhuveli-suites.jpg-300x169.webp 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Sun-Siyam-Olhuveli-suites.jpg-768x432.webp 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Sun-Siyam-Olhuveli-suites.jpg.webp 1200w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Each of the beachfront suits have a private plunge pool. Image courtesy of Sun Siyam Olhuveli</figcaption></figure>



The swanky new suites offer about 1,100 square feet of living space, big enough to accommodate four adults or two adults plus three children. In terms of the aesthetic, the rooms are decked out with sleek and earthy hues set off by a chic, contemporary vibe. If you do plan on bringing the kids, note that there’s a convertible extra room that can be closed off from the main living area for little ones. Each suite also comes with a secluded outdoor bathtub and rain shower, plus a sprawling outdoor terrace where you can hang with your morning coffee and watch the crashing ocean waves. &nbsp;



“We are incredibly excited to introduce these new&nbsp;<a href="https://www.sunsiyam.com/sun-siyam-olhuveli/accommodation/grand-beach-suite-with-pool/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">grand beach suites</a>&nbsp;with private pools, where guests can indulge in a heightened sense of tranquility and style,” said Hassan Adil, general manager at Sun Siyam Olhuveli, in a press statement. “Our team of professionals from the planning department has truly captured the essence of the Maldives with their design, creating spaces that allow guests to connect with nature while enjoying the very best in comfort and sophistication.”&nbsp;<a href="https://www.sunsiyam.com/sun-siyam-olhuveli/accommodation/grand-beach-suite-with-pool/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"></a>



<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/Sun-Siyam-Olhuveli-suite.jpg-1024x576.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234794300" style="width:838px;height:auto" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Sun-Siyam-Olhuveli-suite.jpg-1024x576.webp 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Sun-Siyam-Olhuveli-suite.jpg-300x169.webp 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Sun-Siyam-Olhuveli-suite.jpg-768x432.webp 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Sun-Siyam-Olhuveli-suite.jpg.webp 1200w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">The rooms also come with outdoor bathtubs and showers. Image courtesy of Sun Siyam Olhuveli</figcaption></figure>



Beyond the new suites, you can make use of Sun Siyam Olhuveli’s amenities, such as its four swimming pools and on-site restaurants. On Dream Island, you’ll find three dining options in addition to a relaxing overwater spa. There are also opportunities to play a game of tennis or head out for water sports like a snorkelling safari. If you’re looking for something more advanced, you’ll also have access to 50 world-class dive sites. 



Sun Siyam Olhuveli opened its doors over two decades ago, in 2002. Located 45 minutes via speedboat from Velana (Malé) International Airport, the hotel features 470 rooms and villas across its three islands which are all connected by a walkway bridge. The most recent addition, known as Romance Island, debuted in 2022. 



Seems like a trip to the Maldives is in order.

Beachfront

Dream Island

holiday

hotel

Private Pools

Resort

Vacation

This Luxe Maldives Resort Just Unveiled 40 New Beachfront Suites With Private Pools

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

Since its introduction late last year, the&nbsp;<a href="https://robbreport.com/motors/cars/rolls-royce-spectre-arrival-1234864752/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Rolls-Royce Spectre</a>&nbsp;has made quite some wafting ripples in the luxury EV landscape. Enough, in fact, for&nbsp;Robb Report&nbsp;editors to have named it the&nbsp;<a href="https://robbreport.com/best-of-the-best/gallery/2024-botb-automotive-1235638998/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Best of the Best&nbsp;</a><a href="https://robbreport.com/tag/electric-vehicle/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Electric Vehicle</a>&nbsp;for 2024. Its substantial presence and performance make it an obvious choice, with the latter every bit the equal of that found in any of Goodwood’s V-12-engined cars.



What makes the&nbsp;<a href="https://robbreport.com/motors/cars/rolls-royce-spectre-ev-on-sale-blacklist-1235497187/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Spectre&nbsp;</a>a standout among other zero-emissions models is its very EV-ness as it embodies the&nbsp;<a href="https://robbreport.com/motors/cars/rolls-royce-facts-2900540/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Rolls-Royce&nbsp;</a>ethos of silent comportment and refined luxury, something to which even the most muffled&nbsp;<a href="https://robbreport.com/motors/cars/the-dirty-dozen-why-12-cylinder-engines-remain-magical-2747474/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">V-12</a>&nbsp;can never match. (It’s to be noted that the original 2004 Phantom did not have visible exhaust tailpipes, so discreet and elegant was its design.)



<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/2024/08/1-w-Spectre-Semaphore-5.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234790121" style="width:680px;height:auto" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/1-w-Spectre-Semaphore-5.jpg 2400w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/1-w-Spectre-Semaphore-5-300x200.jpg 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/1-w-Spectre-Semaphore-5-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/1-w-Spectre-Semaphore-5-768x512.jpg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/1-w-Spectre-Semaphore-5-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/1-w-Spectre-Semaphore-5-2048x1365.jpg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 2400px) 100vw, 2400px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">The one-off <a href="https://robbreport.com/tag/rolls-royce/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Rolls-Royce</a> Spectre Semaphore. Image courtesy of Rolls-Royce Motor Cars</figcaption></figure>



Rolls-Royce automobiles, though, have never been shrinking violets. The automaker has been amenable to bespoke commissions from the very beginning, some of which have been remarkable in the extreme. Today, the latest one-off Rolls-Royce is the Spectre Semaphore, which pushes the creative envelope far afield. This unique Spectre features one-of-a-kind artwork on the bonnet (Brit-speak for a car’s hood), which is, according to Rolls-Royce, “a dramatic ‘Marbled Paint Spill’ requiring 160 hours of development by Rolls-Royce craftspeople, who applied silver lacquer and multiple layers of clear coat for a seamless finish.”



To us, it recalls paintings by Morris Lewis or Paul Jenkins, whose poured colour fields expressed lyrical abstract patterns across vast expanses of canvas or paper, though these were created in far less time than it takes to paint a bespoke Rolls-Royce. The Semaphore Yellow colour was “inspired by the informal elegance of coastal California,” according to the marque’s official statement, which we interpret as a romantic glance over the shoulder at the days when driftwood beaches instead of concours lawns were a destination for drivers coming up from bustling Los Angeles or down from freezing-in-the-summer San Francisco.



<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/2024/08/2-w-Spectre-Semaphore-11.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234790122" style="width:680px;height:auto" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/2-w-Spectre-Semaphore-11.jpg 2400w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/2-w-Spectre-Semaphore-11-300x200.jpg 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/2-w-Spectre-Semaphore-11-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/2-w-Spectre-Semaphore-11-768x512.jpg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/2-w-Spectre-Semaphore-11-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/2-w-Spectre-Semaphore-11-2048x1365.jpg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 2400px) 100vw, 2400px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Rolls-Royce Motor Cars has given the name “Marbled Paint Spill” to the abstract artistic expression adorning the hood. Image courtesy of Rolls-Royce Motor Cars</figcaption></figure>



Donovan’s hit album&nbsp;Mellow Yellow&nbsp;was all the rage in 1966, and the psychedelic patterns of the Spectre’s hood—er, bonnet—would be perfectly at home on a fluorescent Fillmore poster stapled to the wall at a Haight Ashbury love-in. Inhale (the nostalgia) deeply.



Like a field of&nbsp;<a href="https://robbreport.com/shelter/auctions/christies-auction-van-gogh-1235600846/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Van Gogh</a>&nbsp;sunflowers, yellow is carried through the Spectre’s interior in a combination of Bespoke&nbsp;Lemon Yellow and Citrine Yellow leather across the seats, Starlight doors, and above&nbsp;the instrument panel. Grace White and Slate Grey leather is enlivened by Lemon&nbsp;Yellow stitching that enhances the creative vision.



<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/2024/08/3-w-Spectre-Semaphore-6-1-1024x683.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234790123" style="width:680px;height:auto" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/3-w-Spectre-Semaphore-6-1-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/3-w-Spectre-Semaphore-6-1-300x200.jpg 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/3-w-Spectre-Semaphore-6-1-768x512.jpg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/3-w-Spectre-Semaphore-6-1-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/3-w-Spectre-Semaphore-6-1-2048x1365.jpg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Bespoke Lemon Yellow and Citrine Yellow leather dress the interior. Image courtesy of Rolls-Royce Motor Cars</figcaption></figure>



The team at Goodwood also programmed the Spectre’s SPIRIT operating system to illuminate instrument dials in the Semaphore Yellow colourway. Highly polished wood serves as complementing trim, and is finished in Cashmere Grey paint infused with silver mica flakes that sparkle when illuminated.



<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/2024/08/4-w-Spectre-Semaphore-9-1024x683.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234790124" style="width:680px;height:auto" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/4-w-Spectre-Semaphore-9-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/4-w-Spectre-Semaphore-9-300x200.jpg 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/4-w-Spectre-Semaphore-9-768x512.jpg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/4-w-Spectre-Semaphore-9-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/4-w-Spectre-Semaphore-9-2048x1365.jpg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">The Semaphore Yellow paint colour was “inspired by the informal elegance of coastal California,” according to the marque’s official statement. Image courtesy of Rolls-Royce Motor Cars</figcaption></figure>



The Rolls-Royce Spectre Semaphore is infinitely rarer than even a sealed first pressing of Yellow Submarine (The Beatles, 1969). In fact, the factory is emphatic that only one Spectre Semaphore will be built for the entire global market. This one-of-one is available exclusively through authorised dealer partners of Rolls-Royce Motor Cars in the United States.



Click <a href="https://robbreport.com/?post_type=pmc-gallery&amp;p=1235801503/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">here</a> for more photos of the Rolls-Royce Spectre Semaphore.

Best of the Best 2024

Electric Vehicle

luxury car

Rolls-Royce

Rolls-Royce Spectre

Rolls-Royce Spectre Semaphore

Rolls-Royce Just Unveiled a Psychedelic, One-of-a-Kind Spectre. Here’s What We Know.

Mercedes isn’t going to sit out all the performance SUV fun.



The German marque’s sportiest sub-brand,&nbsp;<a href="https://robbreport.com/tag/mercedes-amg/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Mercedes-AMG</a>, has just shared a first look at its upcoming electric people hauler. The EV will be the second model built on the company’s&nbsp;AMG.EA&nbsp;platform and has the chance to be one of the most powerful vehicles to ever wear the three-pointed star.



Mercedes has long understood the allure of a luxury SUV. The boxy&nbsp;<a href="https://robbreport.com/motors/cars/mercedes-amg-g-wagen-suv-1234625265/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">G-Class</a>, or G-Wagen, has been one of the class’s most popular models since its introduction at the tail end of the 1970s. But while the automaker has plenty of SUVs in its lineup, it lacks the sort of high-performance EV that can match up with the&nbsp;<a href="https://robbreport.com/motors/cars/porsche-reveals-details-all-electric-macan-1235487074/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Porsche Macan Electric</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://robbreport.com/motors/cars/first-drive-all-electric-lotus-eletre-suv-1234870979/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Lotus Eletre</a>.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full is-resized"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1000" height="562" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/amgelectricsuv01.jpg.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234794256" style="width:839px;height:auto" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/amgelectricsuv01.jpg.webp 1000w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/amgelectricsuv01.jpg-300x169.webp 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/amgelectricsuv01.jpg-768x432.webp 768w" sizes="(max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Image courtesy of Mercedes-Benz</figcaption></figure>



That’s about to change. AMG has shared photos of an in-development SUV undergoing road testing. Little is known about the prototype at this point, but it is one of two new models the sub-brand is working on, the other being a four-door coupé. Both new models will be built on Mercedes’s new all-electric&nbsp;AMG.EA&nbsp;architecture.



The EV in the photograph may be covered in a camouflage wrap but it’s clear it’s unlike anything else in the current Mercedes line-up. It has an aggressive stance and sharper lines than any of AMG’s other SUVs, including the GLC and GLS. The difference is especially pronounced when compared to the line’s only other electric SUV, the jellybean-like EQE. We’re particularly intrigued by the front fascia which has a concave section that suggests the division’s trademark Panamerican grille could be in line for a radical reimagining.



Mercedes may still be keeping details about its new EVs close to the chest, but the reporting out there is easy to get excited about. Earlier this week, the <a href="https://www.autocar.co.uk/car-news/new-cars/mercedes-amgs-new-super-suv-pack-more-1000bhp" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">UK-based Autocar reported</a> that the SUV will be the latest member of the AMG GT family. Its powertrain could make well over 1,000 hp, since the AMG.EA platform allows for either a twin- or tri-motor setup. The motors used by the setup can supposedly make up to 473 hp and 590 ft lbs of torque by themselves, suggesting the vehicle will be significantly more powerful than the Macan Turbo Electric, which tops out at 630 hp, and the Eletre R, which tops out at 905 hp.



Luckily, we shouldn’t have to wait too much longer to find out more. According to Mercedes, the SUV will soon begin cold-weather testing. Its sibling, the four-door coupé, is expected to debut sometime next year, with the SUV following shortly after.

mercedes

Mercedes-AMG

Mercedes Is Developing an All-Electric SUV With 1,000 HP

<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 new era of exclusivity has arrived at&nbsp;<a href="https://robbreport.com/tag/mercedes-benz/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Mercedes-Benz</a>.



Over the weekend, the German marque unveiled the finished version of its first Mythos car, the AMG PureSpeed, at the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix this past weekend. What better place to debut a stylish speedster equipped with a HALO system similar to that found on Formula 1 cars?



Mercedes <a href="https://robbreport.com/motors/cars/mercedes-benz-new-ultra-luxury-line-mythos-series-1235524023/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">announced plans to launch Mythos</a>, its latest sub-brand, earlier this year. The new line will sit atop of the automaker’s portfolio and will produce ultra-exclusive vehicles that combine the best aspects of its powerful AMG and opulent Maybach models. And, based on the first look at the finished AMG PureSpeed, it will do just that.



<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/purespeed05.jpg-1024x576.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234793952" style="width:839px;height:auto" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/purespeed05.jpg-1024x576.webp 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/purespeed05.jpg-300x169.webp 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/purespeed05.jpg-768x432.webp 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/purespeed05.jpg.webp 1200w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption"><a href="https://robbreport.com/tag/mercedes-amg/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Mercedes-AMG</a> PureSpeed. Image courtesy of Mercedes-Benz</figcaption></figure>



The AMG PureSpeed makes its debut just six months&nbsp;<a href="https://robbreport.com/motors/cars/concept-mercedes-amg-purespeed-roadster-halo-system-mythos-1235627573/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">first shown off in concept form</a>&nbsp;before the Monaco Grand Prix (yes, you’re right to be sensing a theme). The speedster hasn’t changed much in the intervening months, but that’s a good thing since the first Mythos model is one of the more visually striking vehicles of 2024.



The new model is an open-top two-seater that lacks a windshield but does have a halo system that divides the cabin and provides protection in case of an accident. Two aerodynamic helmets with integrated intercoms are provided so that the driver and passenger can converse even at high speeds. It also has a distinctive, for Mercedes, front fascia inspired by that of the AMG One hypercar, as well as two scoops behind the seats like the 300 SLR that Stirling Moss and Denis Jenkinson drove to victory at the 1955 Mille Miglia.



<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/purespeed03.jpg-1024x576.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234793953" style="width:841px;height:auto" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/purespeed03.jpg-1024x576.webp 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/purespeed03.jpg-300x169.webp 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/purespeed03.jpg-768x432.webp 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/purespeed03.jpg.webp 1200w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Inside the AMG PureSpeed. Image courtesy of Mercedes-Benz</figcaption></figure>



The example on display in Abu Dhabi red and black racing-style livery with “10” on the fenders, similar to that worn by the Mercedes that won the Targa Florio race in 1924. Other colours are available, including the marque’s trademark Silver Arrow finish. The interior, meanwhile, features a two-tone colour scheme and a custom analog timepiece on the dash that was designed by IWC Schaffhausen.



Mercedes has confirmed that the AMG PureSpeed will be powered by the same twin-turbocharged 4.0-litre V-8 found in the sub-brand’s <a href="https://robbreport.com/motors/cars/mercedes-amg-sl-63-s-e-performance-most-powerful-sl-yet-1235444374/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">SL63 roadster</a>. Unlike that car, there’s no electrical unit to help boost potency, but output still comes out to an impressive 577 hp and 590 ft lbs of torque. Mercedes says the car will accelerate from zero to 62 mph in 3.6 seconds and reach a top speed of 196 mph. Other technical features include a nine-speed automatic gearbox, all-wheel drive, rear-wheel steering, ceramic composite brakes, and a suspension system with semi-active hydraulic roll stabilisation.



<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/purespeed02.jpg-1-1024x576.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234793957" style="width:842px;height:auto" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/purespeed02.jpg-1-1024x576.webp 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/purespeed02.jpg-1-300x169.webp 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/purespeed02.jpg-1-768x432.webp 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/purespeed02.jpg-1.webp 1200w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Mercedes-Benz. Image courtesy of Mercedes-Benz</figcaption></figure>



Mercedes has already said it plans to build just 250 examples of the AMG PureSpeed. The company doesn’t mention that the vehicle is sold-out, which suggests there are build slots still available. No price has been announced either, but expect it to be well north of the US$208,150 (approximately HK$1.6 million) starting price of the AMG SL63 S E Performance.



Click <a href="https://robbreport.com/motors/cars/gallery/photos-ultra-exclusive-mercedes-amg-purespeed-1236115274" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">here</a> for more photos of the Mercedes-AMG PureSpeed.

German

Mercedes-Benz

Mythos

New mercedes

The New mercedes mythos

The New Mercedes Mythos Is an Ultra-Exclusive Open-Top Car With No Windshield

<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>
</div></figure>



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



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



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



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



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



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

Ayrton Senna

Formula 1

TAG Heuer

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

Omega

Speedmaster

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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

Orkos

Watchlock

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

Cubitus

Patek Philippe

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

Cartier

Luxury watches

Rolex

Sotheby’s

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

The most expensive <a href="https://robbreport.com/tag/f-p-journe/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">FP Journe</a> watch ever sold just hammered at Phillips for a whopping US$8.3 million (HK$64.6 million). And it breaks the record previously held by Philippe Dufour as the priciest watch by an independent watchmaker to ever sell at auction.



If the Phillips Geneva auction <a href="https://robbreport.com/style/watch-collector/gallery/neo-vintage-watches-from-the-80s-and-90s-get-their-own-auction-1235831494/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">“Reloaded: The Rebirth of Mechnical Watchmaking, 1980–1999”</a> is any indication, hype is not dead in the watch world. FP Journe cemented its status as a must-have prized collector’s darling today with the blockbuster sale, which set a new record for the watchmaker. The opening bid reportedly started at jaw-dropping US$5 million (HK$38.9 million), while the original estimate was in excess of CHF 2,000,000, or approximately US$2,360,000 (HK$18.3 million).



Previously, the most expensive watch ever sold by Journe was the FFC Blue made in collaboration with Hollywood director Francis Ford Coppola—made for the <a href="https://robbreport.com/style/watch-collector/only-watch-2021-auction-results-1234646396/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Only Watch charity auction in 2021</a>—which was purchased for approximately US$4.9 million (HK$38.1 million). It also beats Journe’s contemporary, Philippe Dufour (a fellow master of modern independent watchmaking), who had formerly held the record of the most expensive watch ever sold by an indie when his Grande et Petite Sonnerie watch <a href="https://robbreport.com/style/watch-collector/philippe-dufour-grande-sonnerie-most-expensive-independent-watch-1234630541/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">sold at A Collected Man</a> for US$7.63 million (HK$59.3 million).



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="1024" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Journe-Remontre.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234793282" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Journe-Remontre.webp 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Journe-Remontre-300x300.webp 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Journe-Remontre-150x150.webp 150w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Journe-Remontre-768x768.webp 768w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Image courtesy of FP Journe</figcaption></figure>



So, what makes the FP Journe Tourbillon Souverain à Remontoire d’Egalité worth 7,320,000 CHF (roughly US$8,369,834/HK$65.1 million at current exchange rates)? The 38 mm manual-wind timepiece in platinum with an 18-carat movement is the watch that launched Journe’s career as an esteemed independent maker, a modern craftsman and engineer following in the footsteps of long-passed watchmaking legends such as Abraham-Louis Breguet and Antide Janvier. Launched in 1999 as a 20-piece souscription (subscription) set, the timepiece is engraved 15/93; it’s the second wristwatch ever made and the first sold by François-Paul Journe. Firsts and records aside, what was and remains fascinating about this timepiece is that it improved upon Breguet’s tourbillon system with the addition of a remontoire—a constant force mechanism that provides an equal amount of energy regardless of the winding level of the mainspring to provide even greater accuracy.



In an autumn 2016 edition of the FP Journ[al], a print newsletter put out by the brand, Journe further explained his intent: “In 1991, I embarked on a new adventure. I realised (late, I know&#8230;) that it was easier to wear a wristwatch than a pocket watch. Thus was borne by 1st tourbillon wristwatch. And I did not want to replicate (for those who know me, they know I hate to copy, it is just boring to do the same thing over and over) my first movement but come out with yet another movement, this time adding a Remontoir d’Egalite. I take this as a compliment (or at the very least a validating) that we hear now lots of watchmakers talking about the Force Constante (constant force mechanism).”



The original prototype of the watch, of course, remains in the watchmaker’s private collection. This watch is one of two subsequent creations from 1993—the other is engraved 16/93. They would serve as the foundation for the DNA of the company going forward: a 38 mm case size, gold dials, and off-set indications. The secret sauce of Journe is the ability to innovate both in design and function, while looking simultaneously modern and traditional—a formula often strived for but rarely achieved in today’s watchmaking.



The icing on the cake of this beauty is that it is one of only three watches fully handmade by Journe himself. For those that truly know watchmaking, that in of itself is enough to send this timepiece into the stratosphere, but the recognition of its US$8.3 million (HK$64.6 million) importance by the market during his lifetime is significant validation indeed for Journe.

FP Journe

Phillips

The Most Expensive FP Journe Watch Ever Just Sold at Phillips for HK$64.6 Million

Steve Kozloff is making his marine dream a reality.



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

Deep Sea Dreamer

Steve Kozloff

Submarine

This Insane Submarine Concept Doubles as a 107-Foot Superyacht

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

Carbon-Fibre

Mayla

Speedboat

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

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



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



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



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large is-resized"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/2.-Rossinavi_Yves-Behar_Solsea_2024_06.jpg.jpg-1024x576.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234793978" style="width:839px;height:auto" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/2.-Rossinavi_Yves-Behar_Solsea_2024_06.jpg.jpg-1024x576.webp 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/2.-Rossinavi_Yves-Behar_Solsea_2024_06.jpg.jpg-300x169.webp 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/2.-Rossinavi_Yves-Behar_Solsea_2024_06.jpg.jpg-768x432.webp 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/2.-Rossinavi_Yves-Behar_Solsea_2024_06.jpg.jpg.webp 1200w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">The bow pool, with a mechanical but artistic hardtop, is just one of many design features on Solsea. Image courtesy of Rossinavi Yachts</figcaption></figure>



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large is-resized"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/2.-Animal-instinct.jpg-1024x576.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234793979" style="width:839px;height:auto" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/2.-Animal-instinct.jpg-1024x576.webp 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/2.-Animal-instinct.jpg-300x169.webp 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/2.-Animal-instinct.jpg-768x432.webp 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/2.-Animal-instinct.jpg.webp 1200w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Rossinavi’s recently launched Sea Wolf X provides a good template for its future power cats. Image courtesy of Rossinavi Yachts</figcaption></figure>



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



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



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



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



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



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

This Curvaceous 140-Foot Hybrid Catamaran Is Powered by AI