The “White Fox”—the pseudonym for a wealthy Canadian investor—is the man responsible for the glorious renovation of what was once an eye-sore in the heart of the Clos de Vougeot, the famed Grand Cru vineyard in the Côte de Nuits. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy</h2>



Now in his mid-60s, very tall, with a flop of white hair and a white goatee, it was the White Fox who invited me to stay at the newly restored&nbsp;<a href="https://www.la-folie-vougeot.com/en_US/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">La Folie de Vougeot</a>. The White Fox insisted not to mention his true name under any circumstances. Having investigated this intrigue further, it appears his family members “think” he was formerly a spy, whereas his close friends “definitely know” he was a spy. Whether or not this lies at the heart of his reticence for giving his real name, I can certainly attest to the fact that the White Fox is a most interesting, generous and warm-hearted man, as well as a formidable wine connoisseur with a penchant for older vintages of Burgundy.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="684" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Screenshot-2025-07-03-at-09.33.40.png-1024x684.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234799544" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Screenshot-2025-07-03-at-09.33.40.png-1024x684.webp 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Screenshot-2025-07-03-at-09.33.40.png-300x200.webp 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Screenshot-2025-07-03-at-09.33.40.png-768x513.webp 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Screenshot-2025-07-03-at-09.33.40.png-1536x1026.webp 1536w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Screenshot-2025-07-03-at-09.33.40.png.webp 1626w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">The Wife &amp; The Mistress</h2>



Perhaps it is fitting, given the White Fox’s uncertain background, that the history surrounding La Folie de Vougeot is also a little murky. Built in 1892, as an homage to Art Nouveau by a successful Dijon wine négociant to entertain his friends, he was caught red-handed in bed with his mistress at La Folie, leading to a messy divorce. The wife managed to extract La Folie in the divorce settlement, but in 1905, the property was left empty to rot for over 100 years. Given La Folie is located right in the heart of one of the most famous Grand Cru vineyards in Burgundy, close to the neighboring Château du Clos Vougeot, it was a source of much contention and consternation for the whole Burgundy community. This was the project the White Fox decided to try his hand at: the grand restoration of La Folie de Vougeot. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">The Renovation</h2>



By the 21st century, La Folie was jointly owned by Maison Joseph Drouhin, Domaine Jaboulet-Vercherre, and Domaine de Montille. The White Fox formed a new company, La Folie Restoration, to take partial ownership of the property, arranging for the purchase of Domaine Jaboulet-Vercherre’s stake. Then began the design and permitting stage of the project, which required consent from the town of Vougeot, the Château du Clos Vougeot, Batiments de France, and Burgundy’s vineyard association. Key to the approved works was to ensure that the restoration would not interfere with work in the vineyards, given the property is surrounded by vines. This meant all 10 phases of construction needed to be carried out over short periods of downtime in the vineyards. The project took 2.5 years to complete from start to finish for a property with a mere 110 square metres of interior space on four levels, of which the basement is designed as a wine cellar and the top floor is a viewing tower. The one magnificent bedroom and bathroom is 40 square metres, similar in size to the stunning dining room and kitchen on the ground level. 



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="688" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Screenshot-2025-07-03-at-09.33.16.png-1024x688.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234799545" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Screenshot-2025-07-03-at-09.33.16.png-1024x688.webp 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Screenshot-2025-07-03-at-09.33.16.png-300x201.webp 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Screenshot-2025-07-03-at-09.33.16.png-768x516.webp 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Screenshot-2025-07-03-at-09.33.16.png-1536x1032.webp 1536w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Screenshot-2025-07-03-at-09.33.16.png.webp 1620w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Unparalleled Quality</h2>



Accessed from its own entrance into the Clos de Vougeot along a driveway, La Folie de Vougeot has been renovated to the highest quality standard. The White Fox told me they blew the budget many times, as he was dedicated to ensuring that the end product was unsurpassed. No doubt part of the reason for the inflated budget—other than the extensive costs of restoring the many Art Nouveau wood and metal decorative pieces that exist all over the property—was the installation of a secret underground wine cellar, accessed by a floor rising up electronically under the kitchen. The wine cellar features 750 bottles of Clos de Vougeot, the largest historic collection in Burgundy, including vintages ranging from 1918 (in magnum) to current day, from virtually every producer who has made Clos de Vougeot in the last hundred years, along with special selections from the historic cellars of Maison Joseph Drouhin and Domaine de Montille.  



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="684" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Screenshot-2025-07-03-at-09.32.23.png-1024x684.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234799546" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Screenshot-2025-07-03-at-09.32.23.png-1024x684.webp 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Screenshot-2025-07-03-at-09.32.23.png-300x200.webp 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Screenshot-2025-07-03-at-09.32.23.png-768x513.webp 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Screenshot-2025-07-03-at-09.32.23.png-1536x1025.webp 1536w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Screenshot-2025-07-03-at-09.32.23.png.webp 1624w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">A Very Special Place</h2>



Experiencing La Folie de Vougeot for the first time, you cannot help but realise you are in a very special place. The White Fox has created the ultimate luxury experience, with great attention to detail, in an authentic 1890s environment. Waking up on an enormous bed in one of the most historic vineyards in the world, lounging in your period bath while viewing the vines literally a few feet away, and taking in the breathtaking and highest view in Burgundy from the top of the La Folie tower, is truly sensational.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Lovingly Pampered</h2>



I loved and appreciated the double sinks in the bathroom—an absolute requirement for my wife wherever we stay!—the great water pressure in the shower, the complimentary range of Hermès soaps and bathroom accessories, the multitude of power plug sockets in the bedroom and house, iPads located wherever you look, and top quality Devialet speakers. Provided you come with a toothbrush and a change of clothing, everything else is taken care of. And then, there are the arrival gifts: half-bottle of Krug Grande Cuvée, Le Labo men’s travel kit, and a bottle of Hermès lady’s perfume, valued at €450 (approximately HK$4,160). 



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="681" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Screenshot-2025-07-03-at-09.31.52.png-1024x681.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234799548" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Screenshot-2025-07-03-at-09.31.52.png-1024x681.webp 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Screenshot-2025-07-03-at-09.31.52.png-300x200.webp 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Screenshot-2025-07-03-at-09.31.52.png-768x511.webp 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Screenshot-2025-07-03-at-09.31.52.png-1536x1022.webp 1536w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Screenshot-2025-07-03-at-09.31.52.png.webp 1626w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Taking a Bath</h2>



On the wall of the bedroom is an original Sara Bernhardt pastel of Cleopatra from 1890, coupled with an array of furnishings dating from the same period, including some very rare Lalique pieces, antique crystal, and hand-carved standing lamps, as well as the original hand-painted ceiling canvas from 1890 which has been lovingly restored. At the insistence of the White Fox—who is not a man you say “no” to—I took a bath on a warm, still sunny early evening, while sipping Krug and overlooking the vineyards with not a single human in view—simply idyllic. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Dinner with Burgundy Royalty</h2>



The best was yet to come. Spy or no spy, the White Fox had laid on a Michelin-starred dinner in the impressive dining room filled with celebrated vignerons who were delighted to be invited and experience La Folie for the first time themselves. From Domaine Lefaive, Brice de la Morandière and his wife; Cecile Tremblay from Domaine Cecile Tremblay; Anne Gros from Domaine Anne Gros; Virginie Taupenot from Domaine Taupenot Merme; and Vincent Dureuil-Janthial from Domaine Vincent Dureuil-Janthial. Naturally, the White Fox sat at the head of the table, overseeing the wine pouring and ensuring everything was just so. 



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="684" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Screenshot-2025-07-03-at-09.33.02.png-1-1024x684.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234799549" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Screenshot-2025-07-03-at-09.33.02.png-1-1024x684.webp 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Screenshot-2025-07-03-at-09.33.02.png-1-300x200.webp 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Screenshot-2025-07-03-at-09.33.02.png-1-768x513.webp 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Screenshot-2025-07-03-at-09.33.02.png-1-1536x1026.webp 1536w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Screenshot-2025-07-03-at-09.33.02.png-1.webp 1632w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Food &amp; Wines Fit For A King</h2>



Chef Keishi Sugimura of Michelin-star Le Benaton prepared a sensational culinary multi-course feast paired perfectly with Dom Pérignon P2 2004, Krug Grande Cuvée 167eme, Domaine Baron Thenard Montrachet Grand Cru 2019 in magnum, Domaine de la Vougeraie Le Clos Blanc de Vougeot 2009, Domaine Comte Liger-Belair Clos Vougeot 2016, Domaine Henri Boillot Clos de Vougeot 2009, Domaine Jean Grivot 1989, Domaine François Gros Clos de Vougeot 1969, Clos Vougeot 1949 (from a long-gone négociant called Couleuse Stadelhoffer), Château d’Yquem 1996, and Taylor’s Port Golden Age 50-year-old Tawny. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Rates Less Than Expected</h2>



As you might imagine, access to La Folie de Vougeot is not well advertised. It’s deliberately low-key and aims to target those “in the know,” particularly among Burgundy aficionados through the Chevalier de Tastevin. Rates for a night’s stay for two guests vary between €1,750 in high season and €1,250 in low season (approximately HK$16,175 and HK$11,555). (Interestingly, for those attending Les Trois Glorieuses in the third week of November, this is deemed low season!) For those wishing to combine their stay with a Michelin-star chef catered dinner for up to 12 guests, rates are €2,750 in high season and €1,850 in low season (approximately HK$25,420 and HK$17,100). If you prefer an extensive wine tasting for up to 18 guests instead of a Michelin-star chef catered dinner, rates are €2,850 in high season and €2,250 in low season (approximately HK$26,345 and HK$20,800). All rates include an overnight stay and breakfast, which I can attest was first class. 



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="681" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Screenshot-2025-07-03-at-09.32.47.png-1024x681.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234799550" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Screenshot-2025-07-03-at-09.32.47.png-1024x681.webp 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Screenshot-2025-07-03-at-09.32.47.png-300x200.webp 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Screenshot-2025-07-03-at-09.32.47.png-768x511.webp 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Screenshot-2025-07-03-at-09.32.47.png-1536x1021.webp 1536w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Screenshot-2025-07-03-at-09.32.47.png.webp 1624w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>



For those seeking to explore the wine cellar, the pricing is similar or better than most restaurants in the area. The oldest bottle of Domaine Leroy Clos Vougeot from 1969 sells for €2,500 (approximately HK$23,105) per bottle. La Folie also stores plenty of bottles of Krug and Dom Pérignon, plus Château d’Yquem and old Armagnac, at very fair prices. Indeed, for lovers of a truly unique and unparalleled wine, food, and stay extravaganza, I believe the White Fox has underpriced the experience&#8230; perhaps deliberately! 



To book your stay at La Folie de Vougeot email:&nbsp;<a href="mailto:concierge@la-folie-vougeot.com" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">concierge@la-folie-vougeot.com</a>&nbsp;referencing Robb Report. &nbsp;



Lewis Chester DipWSET is a London-based wine &amp; rare spirit collector and writer, member of the Académie du Champagne and Chevaliers du Tastevin, co-founder of Liquid Icons and, along with Sasha Lushnikov, the founder of the Golden Vines® Awards. He is also Honorary President and Head of Fundraising at the Gérard Basset Foundation, which funds diversity &amp; inclusivity education programmes globally in the wine, spirits &amp; hospitality sectors. The Golden Vines® 2025 will take place in Miami, USA between 7-9 November 2025, recognising the world’s best fine wine estates as voted by hundreds of fine wine professionals. Please register your interest for tickets on the website:&nbsp;<a href="https://liquidicons.com/work/golden-vines-awards" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">liquidicons.com/work/golden-vines-awards</a>.&nbsp;

How to Enjoy Unique Luxury Stay in the Middle of a Grand Cru Burgundy Vineyard

Boyish good looks, charming, sharp as a whistle, fluent in English, and still just 24 years of age, Théo Dancer is a rare phenomenon in the world of fine wine. At the tender age of 20, he became the vigneron (winemaker) at Domaine Vincent Dancer in Chassagne-Montrachet in the Côte de Beaune, Burgundy. Taking over from Vincent, his 48-year old father, he runs an estate of just over eight hectares and produces 17 cuvées. Most importantly, his wines are stellar and improving every year as he experiments with quality improvements in the vineyard and cellar.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Tennis Prodigy</h2>



It might not have been this way if the young Théo had become a tennis player.  From just four years old until he was 15, Théo was playing tennis at international level. He played for the French Federation and was on the European tour from the age of 12. His opponents include many faces that make their living on the professional tennis circuit today. However, the constant practice, travel, and scrutiny eventually caught up with him and he made a dramatic decision to stop. Today, he rarely, if ever, plays.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Running Man</h2>



Instead, Théo put his youthful energy into mountain running. At the 2019 World Championships in Patagonia, he placed in the top 15 in the world. Like tennis, he would train constantly. However, in 2020, having decided to take over the family estate, he chose to focus on winemaking. Today, he competes in a couple of long-distance (90 km-plus) races a year, although “work is my priority, but I need to stay fit and healthy,” Théo tells me seriously as if he’s embarrassed to be doing something unrelated to wine!



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large is-resized"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="923" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/88b0c0e9-dfde-49f7-9c42-73ff9cdacde7_RS-1024x923.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234799080" style="width:690px;height:auto" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/88b0c0e9-dfde-49f7-9c42-73ff9cdacde7_RS-1024x923.jpg 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/88b0c0e9-dfde-49f7-9c42-73ff9cdacde7_RS-300x270.jpg 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/88b0c0e9-dfde-49f7-9c42-73ff9cdacde7_RS-768x692.jpg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/88b0c0e9-dfde-49f7-9c42-73ff9cdacde7_RS-1536x1385.jpg 1536w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/88b0c0e9-dfde-49f7-9c42-73ff9cdacde7_RS.jpg 1775w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Improving the Vines</h2>



With just three full-time staff, as well as assistance from his parents, Théo has sought to make his own imprint on the estate. In the vineyard, he has introduced the Echalas system, now employed by some of the top estates in Burgundy, such as Domaine Bizot and Domaine Arnoux-Lachaux. Experimenting with the “long stick” Echalas (1.9 m) per vine, he has taken out the wire system entirely, such that the vineyards resemble a garden. Out has gone the tractor in favour of horses. He sprays by hand rather than machine, and has deliberately introduced the idea of “agroforestry” to create biodiversity in the vineyard by adding forest and fruit trees in the centre of his plots.  There are currently 400 new trees planted in his vineyards. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Low Yields</h2>



To increase quality, lower yielding vines are a very important part of his winemaking philosophy. “For white wines, in a great vintage, I am looking for no more than 35–40 hectolitres per hectare and 20–25 hectolitres per hectare for red wines,” he explains. The Echalas system, in any case, naturally results in fewer grapes per vine, which helps with ripening the berries earlier than other vine training systems, retaining more acidity and reaching phenolic ripeness quicker. Consequently, Théo is picking at least one week earlier, on average, than his neighbours.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Winemaking Simplicity</h2>



In the cellar, “I try to keep things as simple as possible,” he tells me. “I like to pick the grapes early to keep freshness, low pH, and high acidity. I make the press with more pressure and for longer than before, to extract the full potential and qualities of my grapes, which leads to more dry extracts.” Interestingly, Théo looks to extract the characteristics of “the things which are not even supposed to produce some juice such as the skin, pips, even the bunches; this is where the real body of the wine is!” Théo has also stopped using new oak to mature his wines, as “I want purity of fruit, not aromas and flavours of oak.” The end result is more complexity and structure in the wines. 



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="819" height="1024" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/6525E155-B8F1-472B-BF13-9DE90EC08DF2_RS-819x1024.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234799081" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/6525E155-B8F1-472B-BF13-9DE90EC08DF2_RS-819x1024.jpg 819w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/6525E155-B8F1-472B-BF13-9DE90EC08DF2_RS-240x300.jpg 240w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/6525E155-B8F1-472B-BF13-9DE90EC08DF2_RS-768x960.jpg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/6525E155-B8F1-472B-BF13-9DE90EC08DF2_RS-1229x1536.jpg 1229w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/6525E155-B8F1-472B-BF13-9DE90EC08DF2_RS.jpg 1280w" sizes="(max-width: 819px) 100vw, 819px" /></figure>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">All About the Terroir</h2>



Soils vary considerably depending upon the plot—clay, limestone, and white marl. Théo’s top crus include his now widely regarded Meursault Perrières 1er Cru and Chevalier Montrachet Grand Cru. In addition to his white wines, he makes six red wines from both the Haut-Côtes de Bourgogne and Côte de Beaune. In all instances, “I make the wines exactly the same way, but it is the soil and overall terroir that distinguishes each wine,” Théo explains. “When the client smells or tastes differences in their glasses between my wines, the one and only explanation to that is the soil structure and terroir, rather than because of me!”  



All of this work, across multiple vineyard plots, produces a mere 25,000 bottles in good vintage conditions. “It’s a lot of work, but I make wines that include a part of my soul, that taste and look like me: fresh, electric, energetic, and that will adapt to conditions I can’t control,” Théo explains with a cheeky grin. (For me, the style of the wines is distinct: elegance, delicacy, femininity, full of balance, and with intellectual subtlety as opposed to being showy and obvious.) 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">He’s His Own Man</h2>



Théo’s friends include his best friend, Pierre-Vincent Girardin, another exceptionally young vigneron, and Charles Lachaux, who has taken him under his wing. His father, Vincent, is someone he relies on for advice, although Théo is keen to point out that “I will never divert from my convictions because of someone else’s viewpoint—I have always been my own man.” 



His vision for the future is to create an estate with a reputation for knowledgeable wine lovers: “Domaine Vincent Dancer doesn’t have to be a massive, famous domaine—I prefer if it’s more loved by connoisseurs as a niche producer of great wines,” Théo explains. “I am also keen to give back to society by supporting local charities, especially in the athletics area, as well as wine charities like the Gérard Basset Foundation.” Indeed, Théo will be serving magnums of his Meursault Perrières 1er Cru at this year’s Golden Vines® Gala in Miami in November which raises funds for the Gérard Basset Foundation.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="850" height="850" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/032A1597-9CC9-4647-88BB-517B9D4D0FBE.png.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234799078" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/032A1597-9CC9-4647-88BB-517B9D4D0FBE.png.webp 850w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/032A1597-9CC9-4647-88BB-517B9D4D0FBE.png-300x300.webp 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/032A1597-9CC9-4647-88BB-517B9D4D0FBE.png-150x150.webp 150w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/032A1597-9CC9-4647-88BB-517B9D4D0FBE.png-768x768.webp 768w" sizes="(max-width: 850px) 100vw, 850px" /></figure>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">The 3 Best Wines Théo Has Made</h2>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Chassagne 1er Cru La Romanée 2020</h2>



What an incredibly vibrant and balanced wine. With some pleasant reduction on the nose, this was a wine I can only describe as having a steely backbone with a velvet undercoat. The fruit is perfectly fresh and pure, and the finish is long and elegant. Théo chose this wine as it was “the first wine that I actually made myself—it’s the first plot to harvest annually, and I made all the decisions about everything; so it means a lot to me!”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Oskar Vin de France 2021</h2>



This was the vintage that decimated production due to a big frost. As a result, volumes were very small. Théo saw an opportunity to blend the full production of his top four plots—Tête de Clos, La Romanée, Meursault Perrières, and Chevalier Montrachet—into one cuvée. The end result was just three barrels of wine. He declassified the wine to a Vin de France and created something unique in his region. The completed wine is very refined, delicate and fresh with a bit of grip on the powerful finish. Delicious.*



*Théo now replicates this exercise every year with a limited amount of juice from each of his top four plots to create a reserve wine from one barrel.  



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Meursault Perrières 1er Cru 2023</h2>



Théo chose this wine as part of his top three because “it’s the most accurate and precise wine I have made to date. It needs a lot more time to show, but it has amazing potential.” Indeed, the aromas jump out of the glass and the palate has incredible energy and tingly freshness. Flavours are once again not overly ripe, but delicate and elegant, and the body is balanced, full but not fat, with a lot of extract that provides some subtle power and drive. A linear and complex wine that will no doubt be a stunner with more time in the bottle.



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<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Théo’s Best 3 Wines He Has Ever Tasted</h2>



Domaine Bizot Marsannay 2017: “My wow moment, I fell in love with Jean-Yves Bizot’s wines after tasting such an incredible wine from Marsannay!”&nbsp;&nbsp;



Domaine d’Auvenay Meursault-Genevrières 2008: “I had incredible emotion drinking this wine, and it was on a Friday night which helped!”



Domaine Takahiko “Nana-Tsu-Mori” Pinot Noir 2017: “Blew my mind that a Pinot from Japan could be better than most red wines I have tasted from Burgundy—I tasted it blind.” 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Théo’s Desert Island Choices</h2>



Book: Everything Token by Steve Kaczynskei



Luxury Item: Ferrari



Film: James Bond – the early films



Band / Musician: Charles Aznavour (!)



What would you do on a desert island?: Build a house and fish



Death Row Wine Choice: Domaine Bizot Marsannay 2017



Lewis Chester DipWSET is a London-based wine &amp; rare spirit collector and writer, member of the Académie du Champagne and Chevaliers du Tastevin, co-founder of Liquid Icons and, along with Sasha Lushnikov, the founder of the Golden Vines® Awards. He is also Honorary President and Head of Fundraising at the Gérard Basset Foundation, which funds diversity &amp; inclusivity education programmes globally in the wine, spirits &amp; hospitality sectors. The Golden Vines® 2025 will take place in Miami, USA between 7-9 November 2025, recognising the world’s best fine wine estates as voted by hundreds of fine wine professionals. Please register your interest for tickets on the website:&nbsp;<a href="https://liquidicons.com/work/golden-vines-awards" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">https://liquidicons.com/work/golden-vines-awards</a>.&nbsp;



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Lewis Chester

Théo Dancer

Wine

Wine Column

Théo Dancer is Burgundy’s Youngest Sensation

Cyril Camus stands as a rare, distinguished figure in the world of luxury spirits, leading the house of Camus, which, despite being in fifth-generation hands, is one of the youngest and most innovative Cognac producers in the world. With a legacy that spans generations, Camus—both man and brand—embodies a unique blend of tradition and modernity, pushing the boundaries of what Cognac can represent in the luxury market.&nbsp;



We at Robb Report Hong Kong have had a lengthy relationship with Camus. After all, the brand has been featured in the annual Best of the Best edition often and is part of our curated, hand-picked selections at <a href="https://robbreport.com/thevault/camus-cuvee-electrum-4-186-black-cognac/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">The Vault</a>. In our conversation with Cyril Camus, we delve into his journey, the history of the brand, and the innovative spirit that drives Camus to new heights.



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Founded in 1863, Camus has carved out a unique niche in the Cognac industry. Cyril Camus’s great-great-grandfather established the brand with a vision that has persisted through generations: to produce exceptional Cognac that stands on its own merit. Unlike many of its competitors, Camus began as a winegrower, selling its products to established houses. However, in a bold move, the founder decided to market his own Cognac, thus laying the foundation for a brand that would eventually thrive in the luxury sector like no other for more than a century. Camus—the man—reflects on this history with pride, noting that being a newcomer in an industry dominated by long-established houses has shaped their approach. “We came in about 150 years after some of the already established Cognac houses,” he says. “Even though we are 162 years old, we are still young in the industry!” A pioneering spirit is deeply entrenched within the company, driving the brand to focus on the high end of the Cognac range, specifically targeting the ultra-luxury market.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="683" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/camus4-1024x683.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234799069" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/camus4-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/camus4-300x200.jpg 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/camus4-768x512.jpg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/camus4-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/camus4-2048x1365.jpg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Cyril Camus at Sotheby’s in Hong Kong.</figcaption></figure>



Cyril Camus took the helm of the family business at the young age of 33, a time when many would still be finding their footing in the world. However, his journey into the Cognac industry was not driven by familial obligation but by a genuine passion for the craft. He tells us that “there was no pressure from my father to join the business, but he made it very attractive. I travelled the world with him, saw how much happiness Cognac gives to the world. […] He made it all so exciting. How could I not like it?”&nbsp;



Encouragement allowed Cyril Camus to explore the many facets of the Cognac world, from production to consumer interaction. His early experiences, including globetrotting business trips with his father, provided him with invaluable insights into how consumers perceive Cognac. “He focused on how people react to what we do,” Camus explains, and this understanding of consumer experience has been pivotal in shaping the house’s direction, ensuring that each generation surpasses the last in both quality and innovation.



One of the hallmarks of the brand is its commitment to discovery, and the fifth-generation producer highlights that while many luxury brands cling to traditional methods, Camus embraces change. “Our goal is [for] each generation to surpass what the previous generation has done,” he asserts, explaining how this ethos has led them to explore new frontiers in the Cognac industry, pushing boundaries that others have not dared to cross.



An example of this innovative spirit is the recent collaborations with the world of art. Camus has partnered with renowned artists to create visually stunning bottles that tell a story. Earlier this year, in the&nbsp;<a href="https://robbreport.hk/posts/best-in-wines-spirits-2025-krug-royal-salute-the-glenlivet-domaine-des-lambrays" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">2025 edition of Best of the Best</a>&nbsp;by&nbsp;Robb Report Hong Kong, Camus was prominently featured. Its stunning&nbsp;Poets &amp; Birds collection, housed in crystal decanters designed by Brazilian artist Janaïna Milheiro, is a staggeringly beautiful artefact. Previously, the&nbsp;<a href="https://robbreport.hk/posts/the-best-in-wines-spirits-from-the-macallan-to-liber-pater-and-dom-perignon" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Camus 4.186 Electrum</a>, housed in a Baccarat decanter, was designed by the sculptor Serge Manseau. In fact, the frequent collaborations between the&nbsp;maison&nbsp;and artists studded around the world has become somewhat a signature of Camus, as is the heady aroma that is unique to the brand.&nbsp;Such artistic collaborations serve to enhance the sensory experience of enjoying Cognac, reinforcing the house’s commitment to beauty and refinement. “We bring together beauty and refinement to create emotion and pleasure,” Camus explains.



His international outlook has played a significant role in shaping the&nbsp;maison. Having spent more than three decades living in China, he has witnessed the transformation of Cognac from a niche luxury product to a widely consumed spirit in the region. His happenstance (or foresight) in learning the Chinese language as a teenager not only facilitated his personal connection with consumers but also positioned Camus to take advantage of the burgeoning Cognac market in Asia. He notes that “the Chinese market has grown to become one of the largest markets for Cognac.” He came to China during his university years and fell in love with the region, and, in many ways, never left. (“I travel to France every month but for decades, Shanghai has been home.”) It is this growth that has allowed the brand to thrive, adapting its strategies to meet the diverse preferences of consumers across different cultures. “Cognac is a completely international business,” he adds, emphasising its global appeal. “Most of it is consumed [and] enjoyed outside of France, which is very unique factor.”



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At the core of the Cognac experience is the notion of sharing. Cyril Camus describes Cognac as a celebratory drink, often reserved for significant moments in life. Whether it’s a business deal or a graduation, “Cognac is typically something that’s shared,” he explains, and the communal aspect of drinking Cognac enhances its status, creating an emotional connection between the drink and the consumer. In addition to being a drink you can enjoy by yourself in a bar on a casual Friday, there’s a luxe patina that makes Cognac perfect for a momentous occasion.&nbsp;



Cyril Camus himself enjoys Cognac in various settings, whether as a pre-dinner drink, during meals, or consumed during intimate gatherings with friends. He believes that the experience of drinking Cognac goes far beyond the liquid itself—it has the ability to foster deeper connections. “Cognac has a tendency to facilitate conversation,” he says, highlighting its role in building relationships. “We’ve had long talks over glasses, late into the night.”&nbsp;



Innovation at the house of Camus is not limited to artistic collaborations. We caught up with Alexa and Cyril Camus, accompanying a few VIPs in town for the grand unveiling of the Sous Les Mers collector’s piece at Sotheby’s,&nbsp;the latest expression from its Voyages Extraordinaires collection, available for approximately—pause for effect—HK$1.87 million.It goes without saying that it’s an extraordinarily artistic (and exclusive) bottle, of which there are only five in the world.&nbsp;A fruitful partnership with famed French crystal-maker Daum, the remarkable decanter that’s under the aegis of a crystal and bronze octopus is a tip of the hat to&nbsp;Twenty Thousand Leagues Under the Sea, as Captain Nemo’s submarine Nautilus encounters the kraken, the mythic sea creature that attacks the adventurers.



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Cyril Camus has embarked on ambitious projects that explore unconventional methods of production. Inspired by the works of Jules Verne, he and his team submerged barrels of Cognac in the ocean to witness the effects of pressure and temperature on the blending process. “We discovered that the transformation was unlike anything we had seen before. We tried to imagine, ‘How would [Captain Nemo] make Cognac?’ He would obviously do it under the sea!” he recounts. His groundbreaking approach has resulted in a Cognac that is more aromatic and complex than traditional methods could achieve.&nbsp;&nbsp;



As Cyril Camus looks ahead, he is committed to maintaining the legacy of the&nbsp;maison&nbsp;while embracing new opportunities and innovations. His recent investment in a whiskey company in China reflects his desire to expand Camus’s reach and influence. “I want to create the most aromatic whiskey in the world,” he asserts, drawing on his expertise in Cognac production and his deep knowledge of&nbsp;baijiu&nbsp;traditions to push the boundaries of what is possible in the spirits industry.&nbsp;



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="683" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/CC_RS-1024x683.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234798628" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/CC_RS-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/CC_RS-300x200.jpg 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/CC_RS-768x512.jpg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/CC_RS-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/CC_RS-2048x1365.jpg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>



Cyril Camus’s vision for the future is not just about creating exceptional products—it’s about redefining luxury itself. He believes that true luxury lies in the ability to provide unique experiences that create genuine connections between people. “Bringing all this together in a refined way creates a level of emotion that is just out there,” he points out to the busy arteries of Central, Hong Kong—but really addressing the world at large.



Sotheby’s Hong Kong is now offering the limited-edition Sous Les Mers collector’s piece at its Sotheby’s Maison through the end of August 2025.



All original images by Chris Yau. Other images courtesy of Camus.

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Camus’s Cyril Camus on the Legacy of Luxury, the Fine Art of Cognac, and the Importance of Innovation

Few things are more thrilling than discovering an open secret in the heart of Hong Kong. In an inconspicuous high-rise on Lyndhurst Terrace, only those in the know have made their pilgrimage through a labyrinth of stairs and corridors to discover treasures of untold fortune and global sourcing. Liquid amber and gold are painstakingly collected, curated, and coursed as the man behind the locked and lacquered doors entrances you with his bon mots on the glory-be bottles that he has in store: simply, the finest whisky in town, hence the name.



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Kam Daswani, founder and managing partner of Dram Good Stuff, has carved a niche for himself in the whisky sector. With a passion for fine spirits—and an impressive collection of watches that he’s known for in equal measure—his journey is as captivating as the things he curates. In an exclusive interview with&nbsp;Robb Report Hong Kong, Daswani shares insights into his philosophy on whisky, the evolution of the brand, and the essence of luxury.



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His foray into the whisky business was born from a simple idea: to provide a premium experience for private events. “Dram Good Stuff stemmed from the desire to allow people to enjoy themselves at private parties and dinners, ensuring all their alcohol needs were met,” he explains. Before establishing Dram Good Stuff, Daswani and his wife were partners in a small restaurant, where they became the go-to source for patrons seeking quality spirits, particularly whisky. “We were inundated with requests for vodka, tequila, and, primarily, whisky. It became clear that there was a significant demand for a more structured approach to catering these needs.”



In formalising Dram Good Stuff, Daswani transformed a passion into a thriving business, and his wife continues to play a pivotal role in its operations. His path to this luxurious realm was not paved with formal, specialised education. As a young adult, he ventured to Los Angeles to study gemmology, earning a graduate diploma from the Gemological Institute of America, a unique background that would later inform his aesthetic sensibilities in both whisky and watches. When asked to choose between his two passions, Daswani responds, “It’s a difficult choice, and thankfully,” he says with a knowing smile, “I don’t have to make one!” He relishes the opportunity to indulge in both worlds, stating, “Dram Good Stuff allows me to enjoy some of the finest whiskies globally. We partner with major distilleries, including Macallan and the Diageo portfolio, to offer unparalleled selections.”



His appreciation for whisky is deeply personal. “Collecting whisky was a hobby that became a business,” he admits. “My wife once told me either to monetise my collection or drink it all. Clearly, drinking it all wasn’t feasible!” It is this blend of personal enjoyment and professional commitment that sets Daswani apart in the industry.



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At Dram Good Stuff, each customer’s experience is tailored to their preferences. “When you walk in, you’ll notice a tasting station. We conduct palate tests to understand what our guests enjoy,” Daswani explains, with this attention to detail ensuring that each encounter is unique, accommodating a wide range of tastes from casual drinkers to connoisseurs. “It’s about mood and context. Sometimes people want something simple to unwind after work, while others seek a refined whisky for a special occasion,” he says.



His approach transcends merely selling expensive bottles; Daswani believes in fostering genuine connections. “Whisky is a mood-based experience. It’s essential to get to know the person to recommend the right dram,” he emphasises. You don’t need a fictional purple dinosaur to tell you that “sharing is caring” but the finest of whiskies essentially rely on a community experience of connoisseurs who gather around and discuss at length the good and the great casks in town, from dusk till dawn, from cask till dram.



In discussing the distinction between true whisky connoisseurs and mere collectors, Daswani offers a keen insight. “Hoarding is often driven by the intention to sell. A true collector ties their acquisitions to significant life moments,” he states. He believes that collectors seek to create shared experiences rather than simply amassing wealth.



Reflecting on his journey, Daswani recalls his first memorable whisky experience. “I started drinking whisky at 18, and Glenfiddich 12-Year-Old was my entry point—like many others,” he shares. However, it was a Macallan 30-Year-Old gifted by his then-girlfriend (now wife) that left a lasting impression. “She brought it home, and I thought, ‘What are we going to do with a HK$5,000 whisky?’ But her response was simple: ‘We’re going to drink it.’ Those moments are what whisky is all about—sharing and celebrating,” he reminisces with a smile.



Daswani also offers his thoughts on how whisky sales can reflect the broader economy. “Luxury goods, including whisky, are tied to disposable income. Right now, Hong Kong is going through a tough patch, and it shows in our sales,” he observes. He notes a shift in consumer behaviour, with many opting for younger, more affordable whiskies. “The market for older expressions has diminished, but people haven’t given up on whisky entirely.”



Addressing common misconceptions, Daswani highlights two prevalent myths: that colour and age indicate quality. “The colour of whisky can be misleading. It doesn’t necessarily correlate with its taste or quality,” he asserts, pointing out three rare vintages: one lighter than the other, one as dark as a bottle of Coca-Cola, and another a pale golden yellow. He provides insight into the ageing process: “Older doesn’t always mean better. I’ve enjoyed 10-year-old whiskies more than some that are decades older.” His expertise underscores the importance of understanding the nuances of whisky rather than relying on superficial indicators.



For Daswani, luxury transcends material possessions. “True luxury is the ability to enjoy a moment without distraction,” he explains. Whether it’s savouring a rare bottle of whisky or admiring a finely crafted watch, he values the experience above all else. “When I open a 45-year-old Scotch, I honour the time and effort that went into making it. I disconnect from the outside world to fully appreciate that moment,” he says.&nbsp;



Daswani speaks fondly of the community that whisky has helped him cultivate. “We have WhatsApp groups for collectors and enthusiasts—the connections I’ve made through whisky tastings and festivals are invaluable,” he shares, reflecting on how this camaraderie fosters friendships that span cultures and borders, creating a rich tapestry of shared experiences that has taken him around the world—and helped him collect recognition and accolades from unexpected quarters. As we meet for this interview, just days after his whirlwind trip to Scotland, he returns with dazzling tokens of appreciation and acknowledgement by peers.



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Daswani received the prestigious title of Keeper of the Quaich, an honour recognising his contributions to the Scotch whisky industry. “It’s a tremendous acknowledgment, and I’m humbled to have been nominated by a Master of the Quaich,” he says with humility and pride. It’s an accolade that reflects his commitment to educating others about whisky and promoting a culture of appreciation rather than mere consumption and conspicuous collection. His “hobby,” which he converted to a successful business, is a man cave studded with the rarest vintages from all corners of the world, featuring bottles of different shapes, sizes, and colours, including a bottle that distinctly looks like a weapon! “Isn’t it a lawsuit waiting to happen?” he asks rhetorically as he pull out the most peculiar bottle of vodka.&nbsp;



Behind guarded and secret doors, there are five- and six-figure vintages of amber and gold. “We rent out the space for VIP gatherings and some of the rare bottles are definitely under lock and key!” Daswani demonstrates how a particular puzzle unravels to reveal a bottle of significant value. Let it not be said that presentation isn’t everything!



Looking ahead, Daswani is excited about the future of Dram Good Stuff and the whisky industry. “We’re planning unique events that pool resources and showcase exceptional whiskies,” he reveals. His passion for whisky continues to drive him as he aims to create unforgettable experiences for his clients, including a programme he’s masterminding for&nbsp;Robb Report Hong Kong&nbsp;and RR1 Hong Kong that’s in the works. (More on that soon.)



Like the origin story of a refined whisky, his journey, from a restaurant investor to a key player in the whisky industry to a leader of luxury, illustrates the transformative power of passion and dedication. As Daswani aptly states, “If you can’t share whisky, then what’s the point?” In this ethos lies the true luxury of whisky—connection, celebration, and the joy of shared experiences. Sounds like the beat of a drum we’re all too familiar with at Robb Report Hong Kong.



All original images by Chris Yau, others courtesy of Kam Daswani.

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Whisky

Dram Good Stuff’s Kam Daswani on the Exquisite World of Fine Whisky, How Each Encounter Is Unique, and Being a Keeper of the Quaich

Penfolds has unveiled its ultra-exclusive new wine, Grange La Chapelle 2021, now officially available in limited quantities in Hong Kong. A highly anticipated vintage, this release signifies an unprecedented collaboration in the world of viticulture, showcasing the artistry and innovation of two legendary winemakers: Peter Gago of Penfolds and Caroline Frey of La Chapelle, who proved that it does take two to tango.



Grange La Chapelle 2021 emerges from the deep-rooted friendship between Gago, chief winemaker of Penfolds Grange, and Frey, chief winemaker of La Chapelle in France, but their partnership is not merely a blending of wines—it is a celebration of culture, tradition, and the relentless pursuit of excellence. Resulting from that is a pioneering 50/50 blend of French Syrah and Australian Shiraz, marrying the storied terroirs of Hermitage and South Australia in a way that has, as far as memory serves, never been accomplished before.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="683" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/Grange-La-Chapelle-2_RS-1024x683.jpeg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234798539" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/Grange-La-Chapelle-2_RS-1024x683.jpeg 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/Grange-La-Chapelle-2_RS-300x200.jpeg 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/Grange-La-Chapelle-2_RS-768x512.jpeg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/Grange-La-Chapelle-2_RS-1536x1024.jpeg 1536w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/Grange-La-Chapelle-2_RS-2048x1365.jpeg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>



While Penfolds and La Chapelle have crossed paths before, including at a major tasting organised by The Institute of Masters of Wine decades ago, and again in 1987, at a luncheon at the Rakel restaurant in New York (helmed by a young Thomas Keller, no less) co-hosted by Gerard Jaboulet and Max Schubert, where the 1971 Penfolds Grange and 1978 Jaboulet Hermitage La Chapelle was poured. 38 years later, this connection has now come full circle.



For the exclusive Grange La Chapelle 2021, the grapes were sourced from two iconic regions: the steep slopes of Hermitage in France, renowned for its powerful Syrah, and the sun-soaked vineyards of Barossa Valley, McLaren Vale, and Clare Valley in Australia, celebrated for their exceptional Shiraz. Each varietal brings its unique characteristics to the blend, resulting in a wine that is not only bold but also remarkably refined.



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<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="683" height="1024" data-id="1234798534" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/Grange-La-Chapelle-2021-_RS-683x1024.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234798534" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/Grange-La-Chapelle-2021-_RS-683x1024.jpg 683w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/Grange-La-Chapelle-2021-_RS-200x300.jpg 200w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/Grange-La-Chapelle-2021-_RS-768x1152.jpg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/Grange-La-Chapelle-2021-_RS-1024x1536.jpg 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/Grange-La-Chapelle-2021-_RS.jpg 1067w" sizes="(max-width: 683px) 100vw, 683px" /></figure>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="684" data-id="1234798533" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/Caroline-Frey-Chief-Winemaker-of-La-Chapelle-and-Peter-Gago-Chief-Winemaker-of-Penfolds-Grange-11_RS-1024x684.jpeg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234798533" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/Caroline-Frey-Chief-Winemaker-of-La-Chapelle-and-Peter-Gago-Chief-Winemaker-of-Penfolds-Grange-11_RS-1024x684.jpeg 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/Caroline-Frey-Chief-Winemaker-of-La-Chapelle-and-Peter-Gago-Chief-Winemaker-of-Penfolds-Grange-11_RS-300x200.jpeg 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/Caroline-Frey-Chief-Winemaker-of-La-Chapelle-and-Peter-Gago-Chief-Winemaker-of-Penfolds-Grange-11_RS-768x513.jpeg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/Caroline-Frey-Chief-Winemaker-of-La-Chapelle-and-Peter-Gago-Chief-Winemaker-of-Penfolds-Grange-11_RS-1536x1026.jpeg 1536w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/Caroline-Frey-Chief-Winemaker-of-La-Chapelle-and-Peter-Gago-Chief-Winemaker-of-Penfolds-Grange-11_RS-2048x1368.jpeg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>
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On the nose, the Grange La Chapelle 2021 reveals a bouquet of black cherry, pomegranate, and raspberry, along with subtle hints of spice and earthiness, while the palate is woven from a rich tapestry of flavours, revealing a bold and elegant structure to encapsulate the shared history of Syrah and Shiraz, and paving the way for future possibilities. While the 2021 vintage marks the first release, both winemakers are committed to continuing this exceptional collaboration in the years to come, Mother Nature permitting.



Grange La Chapelle 2021 was officially launched at an intimate, invite-only black-tie event in Paris earlier this year on 9 February 2025, a fitting celebration of the partnership that brought this wine to life, attended by distinguished guests from the wine industry and beyond. For the discerning collector and oenophile, a limited quantity of Grange La Chapelle 2021 is available in Hong Kong from <a href="http://grangexlachapelle.com/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">grangexlachapelle.com</a> at HK$17,500 for a 750 ml bottle. 



All images courtesy of Penfolds.

collaboration

Grange La Chapelle 2021

Penfolds

Penfolds Unveils Its Exclusive Grange La Chapelle 2021 Collaboration in Hong Kong 

When I reach the pearly gates of heaven, I am going to be on bended knees asking God to answer two questions I have had swirling in my head for the last 20 years. Firstly, how did Jim Simons’s Medallion Fund manage to extract between US$5 to US$10 billion of profits from the financial markets year-on-year for the last three decades? Secondly, how have Dom Pérignon managed to produce millions of bottles of the finest Champagne in every declared vintage?



It is surely one of the wonders of the world that this remarkable Champagne brand is able to produce an artisanal, extremely high quality product in such high quantity that it makes Château Lafite Rothschild’s production numbers look miniscule. The exact numbers are a trade secret that no one, including former employees, are ever willing to talk about. They believe revealing the numbers will somehow diminish their brand and achievements. In fact, it’s quite the opposite. It would be something to be admired and marvelled at given that the end-product is as good as anything else produced in the Champagne region. 



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="945" height="708" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Dom-Perignon-Hautvillers-abbey-1-©James-Bort-DomPerignon_BalayMaxime.jpg.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234797922" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Dom-Perignon-Hautvillers-abbey-1-©James-Bort-DomPerignon_BalayMaxime.jpg.webp 945w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Dom-Perignon-Hautvillers-abbey-1-©James-Bort-DomPerignon_BalayMaxime.jpg-300x225.webp 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Dom-Perignon-Hautvillers-abbey-1-©James-Bort-DomPerignon_BalayMaxime.jpg-768x575.webp 768w" sizes="(max-width: 945px) 100vw, 945px" /></figure>



As a long-time lover of <a href="https://www.domperignon.com/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Dom Pérignon</a>, it is clear that what sets this maison apart from its competitors are its resources: it attracts and keeps the most talented human resources in the industry; it has more financial muscle than any other wine estate globally; and it controls huge swathes of Premier Crus and Grands Crus vineyards all over the region. Add to this a history of pioneering and emblematic chefs de caves—modelled in some respect after the original man himself, Dom Pierre Pérignon (1638–1715), the French Benedictine monk who it is said invented the process of second fermentation in bottle (i.e. sparkling wine)—and you have all the ingredients for greatness.



The maison’s main product is Dom Pérignon Brut, always impressive, always admired and always delicious. Made in a reductive style, it’s the essence of what people have come to expect of Champagne: notes of brioche, toasted bread, chalky minerality, vibrancy, and generosity on the palate and in the finish. However, as well as a highly regarded and often epic Dom Pérignon Brut Rosé, the recently retired legendary chef de cave, Richard Geoffroy, introduced the concept of Plénitudes, both for white and rosé Champagnes. Today, Geoffroy’s able acolyte, Vincent Chaperon, holds the reins at the estate. 



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="921" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/VINCENT-CHAPERON-CHEF-DE-CAVE-DOM-PERIGNON-5-©ALEX-MAJOLI-DomPerignon_BalayMaxime-1.jpg-1024x921.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234797923" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/VINCENT-CHAPERON-CHEF-DE-CAVE-DOM-PERIGNON-5-©ALEX-MAJOLI-DomPerignon_BalayMaxime-1.jpg-1024x921.webp 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/VINCENT-CHAPERON-CHEF-DE-CAVE-DOM-PERIGNON-5-©ALEX-MAJOLI-DomPerignon_BalayMaxime-1.jpg-300x270.webp 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/VINCENT-CHAPERON-CHEF-DE-CAVE-DOM-PERIGNON-5-©ALEX-MAJOLI-DomPerignon_BalayMaxime-1.jpg-768x691.webp 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/VINCENT-CHAPERON-CHEF-DE-CAVE-DOM-PERIGNON-5-©ALEX-MAJOLI-DomPerignon_BalayMaxime-1.jpg.webp 1134w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Vincent Chaperon.</figcaption></figure>



Plénitudes are principally about longer ageing than the standard Dom Pérignon Brut which is typically aged for at least eight years on its lees (dead yeast cells). The second Plénitude (P2) will be aged for between 12 to 15 years (and longer for the P2 Rosé). The third Plenitude (P3) will see at least 25 years of ageing on its lees.  



P2 is made in much smaller quantities than the Brut (often referred to as P1 at the maison). P3 is made in relatively minute quantities. The difference between a P1 and P2 can be stark in terms of additional complexity and length on the finish. The difference between a P2 and a P3 can be gigantic in that P3 can often be a wine that stands alongside the very greatest fine wines you are ever likely to taste. The price tag is equally reflective of this jump in complexity and quality, as well as the rarity factor compared with P1.



October is a great month to visit Abbaye d’Hautvillers, the spiritual heart of Dom Pérignon, which is seeing a major renovation project due to complete around 2028 that will greatly enhance the visitor experience. Harvest is over, the vins clairs (the base wines) are being produced, and the autumnal leaves enhance the beauty of the vineyards. I highly recommend it.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="682" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/©2023-Harold-De-Puymorin-06–-Dom-Perignon_RGB.jpg-1024x682.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234797924" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/©2023-Harold-De-Puymorin-06–-Dom-Perignon_RGB.jpg-1024x682.webp 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/©2023-Harold-De-Puymorin-06–-Dom-Perignon_RGB.jpg-300x200.webp 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/©2023-Harold-De-Puymorin-06–-Dom-Perignon_RGB.jpg-768x512.webp 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/©2023-Harold-De-Puymorin-06–-Dom-Perignon_RGB.jpg.webp 1400w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Lewis’s Best 3 Wines from Dom Pérignon&nbsp;</h2>



Dom Pérignon P2, 1995: From a vintage that was nowhere near as highly regarded as its successor, the development of this wine over the years has now surpassed the 1996 vintage. There is not a P2 vintage drinking better than the 1995 right now. The nose is hugely complex and it has an ethereal quality in the mouth that makes you sit up and smile. An extraordinary wine. 



Dom Pérignon P3, 1975: A wine of such depth, complexity, and one of the longest finishes I have ever experienced, it’s firstly a fine wine and only secondly a sparkling wine. Floral, petal-y aromas compete with the typical toasty notes you would expect of a long-aged Champagne. 



Dom Pérignon Oenothèque Brut Millésime, 1966 (Magnum): Oenothèque is the precursor to the longer-ageing Plénitudes. Richard Geoffroy, the former chef de cave, opened this magnum at the home of Dom Pérignon, Abbaye d’Hautvillers, for a friend and I to share. All three of us were overwhelmed by how incredible this bottle showed. Graceful, powerful, constantly evolving in the glass. One of the all time greatest wines I have tasted. 



The Golden Vines® 2025 will take place in Miami, USA between 7–9 November 2025, recognising the world’s best fine wine estates as voted by hundreds of fine wine professionals. Please register your interest for tickets on the website: <a href="https://liquidicons.com/work/golden-vines-awards" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">https://liquidicons.com/work/golden-vines-awards</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.

Champagne

Dom Pérignon

Take an Exclusive Look Inside the Remarkable Dom Pérignon Champagne House

By Michael Verdon, Julie Boatman, and Jen Paolini



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



Gulfstream



G700



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



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



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



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



Sentient



SJ25+



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



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



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



Textron Aviation



Citation CJ3 Gen2



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



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



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



VistaJet



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



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



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



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



Dassault



6X



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



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



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



Embraer



Phenom 100EX



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

Aviation

Best of the Best

Best of the Best 2025

Dassault

Gulfstream

Private Jet

Sentient

Textron Aviation

VistaJet

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



Sounds like quite the upgrade.

Heathrow

London

Private Terminal

The Windsor

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

Business jet

Otto Aviation

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

Bombardier’s&nbsp;<a href="https://robbreport.com/motors/aviation/bombardier-global-8000-business-jet-1236458103/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Global 8000</a>&nbsp;took another step toward certification last weekend after the first production aircraft completed its successful inaugural flight. The world’s fastest civilian aircraft since the&nbsp;<a href="https://robbreport.com/motors/aviation/supersonic-jet-concorde-replaced-boom-overture-1235428265/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Concorde</a>, the new plane replaces the&nbsp;<a href="https://robbreport.com/motors/aviation/gallery/best-bombardier-aircraft-1236219544/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Global 7500</a>. The first production 8000 took off from Bombardier’s Aircraft Assembly Centre in Mississauga, Ontario, executing a series of tests before landing. The final aircraft will have a top speed of Mach 0.94 (it crossed the supersonic threshold into Mach 1.105 during a controlled dive during the first tests in 2021) and an 8,000-nautical-mile range.



“Having this first production aircraft take to the skies is another important step in this journey that will redefine the business aviation landscape,” Stephen McCullough, Bombardier’s senior vice president of engineering and product development, said in a statement.



<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="World’s Fastest Business Jet Completes Inaugural Flight" width="500" height="281" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/MaG7k9QduxI?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>



Bombardier says its new flagship should be certified and delivered to its first owner before the end of 2025. The next step is flying to the Laurent Beaudoin Completion Center in Montreal, where Bombardier is headquartered, to complete the interior.



Pilot Sandro Novelli, co-pilot Charlie Honey, and flight engineer Bhargav Bhavsar comprised the flight crew. The company said that all test controls were used and everything performed as expected.



The Global 7500, which entered service in 2018, has more than 250,000 total flying hours among 200 deliveries. It recently broke its <a href="https://robbreport.com/motors/aviation/bombardier-global-7500-transatlantic-record-1236362828/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">100th speed record</a> between San Luis Obispo, California, and London’s Biggin Hill airport. Possible city pairs for the Global 8000 include Dubai to Houston, Singapore to Los Angeles, and London to Perth. Bombardier says the Global 8000’s range at this ultra-high cruise speed of Mach 0.92 will be up to 4,200 nautical miles.



The Global 8000 is close to the 7500, but it also has modifications that include space in its wings where it can store more fuel reserves for increased range. Also, Bombardier’s engineers tweaked the engine software on the General Electric Passport engines to assist in the range targets and to also increase the top speed by 33 knots, or 38 mph. Its maximum cruising altitude will remain the same as the Global 7500 at 51,000 feet.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large is-resized"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/2.-Global-8000-Landing.jpg-1024x576.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234798336" style="width:838px;height:auto" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/2.-Global-8000-Landing.jpg-1024x576.webp 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/2.-Global-8000-Landing.jpg-300x169.webp 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/2.-Global-8000-Landing.jpg-768x432.webp 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/2.-Global-8000-Landing.jpg.webp 1200w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">The 8000 after landing. It will move to Bombardier’s interior completions centre in Montreal, Canada.  Image courtesy of Bombardier</figcaption></figure>



Bombardier claims the 8000 will have the lowest cabin pressurisation of any business jet, 2,900 feet at a 41,000-foot cruising altitude. The cabin also promises to be the largest in its class, with four customisable living zones that could include a rear master suite with a bed and a stand-up shower.  



The Global 8000 is just one of the new ultra-long-range business jets that have either entered service or will be entering service in the next few years. Gulfstream had the first customer deliveries of its flagship&nbsp;<a href="https://robbreport.com/motors/aviation/gulfstream-business-jet-700th-speed-record-g700-1236507408/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">G700</a>&nbsp;in April 2024, and the longer-range&nbsp;<a href="https://robbreport.com/motors/aviation/gulfstream-g800-broke-distance-record-1236477480/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">G800</a>&nbsp;could enter service in the next few weeks after receiving FAA and EASA approvals. The G800 will replace the&nbsp;<a href="https://robbreport.com/motors/aviation/gallery/best-gulfstream-jets-1236181283/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">G650.</a>&nbsp;It claims to have business aviation’s longest range of 8,200 nautical miles. The&nbsp;<a href="https://robbreport.com/motors/aviation/dassault-new-falcon-6x-1234585648/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Dassault Falcon 6X</a>&nbsp;long-range jet entered service in 2024, while its larger sibling&nbsp;<a href="https://robbreport.com/motors/aviation/dassault-falcon-10x-business-jet-1236164677/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">10X</a> should enter service in 2027 after supply-chain issues among its engine suppliers forced its delays for two years.



The entry of all these competitive new aircraft provide a boon for the growing ultra-long-range segment for the next five years.&nbsp;

bombardier

Bombardier Global 8000

The World’s Longest-Range Business Jet Just Completed Its First Test Flight

Morgan Freeman wasn’t quite sure about whether the world’s first certified flying car will really take off in the real word. Freeman, along with two-time Oscar winner John Travolta, presented Slovakia-based Klein Vision with a Special Recognition Award for Engineering Excellence at last month’s 2025 Living Legends of Aviation Gala Dinner in Beverly Hills, California. The event recognises advances in flight, exploration, and personal air mobility.



But Freeman wasn’t buying it, at least not initially. “Anybody can come to our shop and see the AirCar flying,” Anton Zajac told the actor, who also has an Oscar. Zajac, who co-founded Klein Vision in 2016 with Stefan Klein, told Robb Report that Freeman came closer to accepting the AirCar’s reality by the end of the conversation.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large is-resized"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/KV08prototype.png-1024x576.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234798279" style="width:841px;height:auto" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/KV08prototype.png-1024x576.webp 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/KV08prototype.png-300x169.webp 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/KV08prototype.png-768x432.webp 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/KV08prototype.png.webp 1200w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">The AirCar promises to shorten flight times between cities by letting you take off from your home. Image courtesy of Klein Vision</figcaption></figure>



When it comes to skepticism about <a href="https://robbreport.com/tag/flying-cars/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">flying cars</a>, Freeman’s not alone. The history of the flying car has had one or two successes—including the <a href="https://robbreport.com/motors/aviation/flying-cars-certification-first-on-market-1235679218/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Aerocar</a> which made it into production, barely, in the 1950s, and of course, The Jetsons’ famous bubble-top commuter—but most attempts have failed over the years. Now, a <a href="https://robbreport.com/motors/aviation/gallery/7-flying-cars-change-air-transport-1234831349/palv_flyingcar-2/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">half-dozen manufacturers</a> are trying to bring their versions of a flying car to market. The offerings include the <a href="https://robbreport.com/motors/aviation/flying-cars-certification-first-on-market-1235679218/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Pal V Liberty</a>, <a href="https://robbreport.com/motors/aviation/samson-sky-switchblade-flying-car-makeover-1235981351/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Samson Switchblade</a>, <a href="https://robbreport.com/motors/aviation/aksa-a5-flying-car-initial-faa-certification-1234863617/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Aska A5</a>, <a href="https://robbreport.com/motors/aviation/alef-model-a-flying-car-detroit-auto-show-1235002804/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Alef Model A</a>, and <a href="https://robbreport.com/motors/aviation/doroni-h1x-electric-flying-car-1235529337/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Doroni H1X</a>. Like Klein Vision, they are small firms with limited resources, attempting to bring their aircraft to market while facing multiple technical and regulatory challenges. All are in different phases of development.



Klein Vision says it’s on the brink of breaking into the real world, with plans to commercially introduce its AirCar in the first quarter of next year. That will come after test-flights of the second pre-production prototype happen in the autumn. That’s the culmination of a long journey for Klein, who has designed five generations of ever-more sophisticated flying cars since 1989. Zajac has been his partner for nearly a decade. “We were cautious when we started the [AirCar] project,” says Zajac, referring to the first prototype. “The goal was to get proof of concept and proof of geometry and come up with something we could fly.”



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large is-resized"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/2.AircarinFight.jpg-1024x576.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234798280" style="width:839px;height:auto" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/2.AircarinFight.jpg-1024x576.webp 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/2.AircarinFight.jpg-300x169.webp 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/2.AircarinFight.jpg-768x432.webp 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/2.AircarinFight.jpg.webp 1200w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">The first prototype of the AirCar doing an intercity flight in 2021.  Image courtesy of Klein Vision</figcaption></figure>



Since its maiden flight in 2021, the first prototype has completed 170 flight hours, with more than 500 takeoffs and landings. The second version will be 440 pounds lighter, thanks to a more advanced composite construction method. Its small aircraft engine from Adept has FADEC (full-authority digital engine controls) that regulate engine performance for easier flying.



“This will climb and fly faster than the first prototype and we’ve put in a larger cockpit,” says Zajac. The AirCar will also include Garmin avionics and is autopilot ready. Its flight range will be about 620 miles, he explained, and about 500 miles on the ground. After being tested for 50 hours, it will be eligible to receive an EASA airworthiness certificate, which allows Klein Vision to put it on the market in Europe. Long-term plans include distribution in Asia and North America. The price will range between US$800,000 (approximately HK$6.26 million) and US$1 million (approximately HK$7.83 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/2025/05/KVprototype.png-1024x576.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234798281" style="width:838px;height:auto" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/KVprototype.png-1024x576.webp 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/KVprototype.png-300x169.webp 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/KVprototype.png-768x432.webp 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/KVprototype.png.webp 1200w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">In flight mode, with wings out. Image courtesy of Klein Vision</figcaption></figure>



Zajac sees a market for commuters who want to eliminate airports and fly between their homes and other unrestricted landing spots. Klein is even thinking bigger. “The AirCar fulfils a lifelong dream to bring the freedom of flight into the hands of everyday people,” he said during the ceremony. “With the launch of our production prototype, we are one step closer to transforming how the world moves—merging the road and the sky into a new dimension of personal mobility.”



One can imagine that Freeman just smiled.

flying car

Klein Vision

This HK$7.83 Million Flying Car Is Hitting the Market Next Year

Emirates is poised to enhance its presence in the Asia-Pacific region with the introduction of retrofitted Airbus A380s and Boeing 777s, set to debut in Hong Kong later this year. The retrofitted Boeing 777 makes its debut in Hong Kong in July, followed closely by the refurbished A380 is set to launch in October. An ambitious expansion, this marks a significant milestone in the premium airline’s ongoing retrofit programme, which represents one of the largest of its kind in aviation history; the staggering Emirates investment of HK$39.15 billion is aimed at elevating passenger experiences across its fleet. By the end of 2025, Emirates plans to operate routes to over 70 cities with upgraded aircraft featuring the latest interiors.



Its upgrades will roll out to additional cities, including Bangkok, Nice, and Perth, alongside enhanced services to Madrid, Kuala Lumpur, Phuket, and Dublin. Each destination will benefit from the introduction of refurbished interiors, providing a consistent and luxurious experience for travellers. Emirates’ deputy president and chief commercial officer, Adnan Kazim, emphasised the importance of this expansion, stating that the newly refurbished aircraft will enable the airline to offer an unparalleled premium onboard experience.&nbsp;



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="685" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/biz_lounge-1-1024x685.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234798237" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/biz_lounge-1-1024x685.jpg 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/biz_lounge-1-300x201.jpg 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/biz_lounge-1-768x513.jpg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/biz_lounge-1-1536x1027.jpg 1536w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/biz_lounge-1-2048x1369.jpg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Both First Class and Business Class Emirates A380 onboard lounge. </figcaption></figure>



“The latest rollout of refurbished Airbus A380s and Boeing 777s and new A350s offer more opportunities for customers in over 70 dynamic cities and growing economies to enjoy our latest-generation premium onboard experience combined with our award-winning service,” he says. “The redoubling of our refurbishment programme efforts means that by the end of this year, Emirates will have established itself as one of the preeminent industry leaders.”



He noted that the retrofit programme is not just about aesthetics—it is a strategic move to cater to the growing demand for premium travel experiences. Since the inception of the retrofit programme in 2022, Emirates has completed upgrades on 51 aircraft, with plans to refurbish a total of 219. Its meticulous approach involves over 270 engineers working tirelessly to ensure that each aircraft meets the highest standards of quality and comfort.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large is-resized"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="683" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Emirates-Lounge-at-Hong-Kong-International-Airport_RS-1024x683.jpeg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234798222" style="width:840px;height:auto" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Emirates-Lounge-at-Hong-Kong-International-Airport_RS-1024x683.jpeg 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Emirates-Lounge-at-Hong-Kong-International-Airport_RS-300x200.jpeg 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Emirates-Lounge-at-Hong-Kong-International-Airport_RS-768x512.jpeg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Emirates-Lounge-at-Hong-Kong-International-Airport_RS-1536x1024.jpeg 1536w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Emirates-Lounge-at-Hong-Kong-International-Airport_RS-2048x1365.jpeg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Emirates Lounge at Hong Kong International Airport.</figcaption></figure>



As frequent flyers know, this is on par with Emirates’ famed reputation—the carrier is frequently listed among one of the best in the world. Just a few months ago, Emirates was voted as the World’s Best Airline by Telegraph Travel, and&nbsp;Robb Report Hong Kong&nbsp;has similarly honoured the airline in our&nbsp;<a href="https://robbreport.hk/posts/the-best-in-aviation-from-bombardiers-global-8000-to-icon-aircrafts-icon-a5" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Best in Aviation 2024</a>. In fact, Emirates ended 2024 with a slew of awards that included Best International Airline by Forbes Travel Guide’s Air Travel Awards, and 2025 APEX World Class Airline for delivering outstanding customer service.



Emirates will roll out its refreshed fleet to Hong Kong, Bangkok, Nice, and Perth in the coming months. Passengers in Asia will be among the first few to check out the refurbished A380 with four classes and the latest interiors. As the airline prepares for its next phase of growth, travellers can look forward to a refined experience that embodies the luxury, comfort, and unparalleled services that the brand is known for—be it on land or on air.



All images courtesy of Emirates.

emirates

First Class

Jumbo jet

Emirates Expands Luxury Aircraft Services to Hong Kong and Beyond With Billion-Dollar Upgrades

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



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



<figure class="wp-block-gallery has-nested-images columns-default is-cropped wp-block-gallery-1 is-layout-flex wp-block-gallery-is-layout-flex">
<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="684" data-id="1234797201" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/RRHK-x-Glenrothes-51-Private-Dinner-47-1024x684.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234797201" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/RRHK-x-Glenrothes-51-Private-Dinner-47-1024x684.jpg 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/RRHK-x-Glenrothes-51-Private-Dinner-47-300x200.jpg 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/RRHK-x-Glenrothes-51-Private-Dinner-47-768x513.jpg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/RRHK-x-Glenrothes-51-Private-Dinner-47-1536x1025.jpg 1536w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/RRHK-x-Glenrothes-51-Private-Dinner-47-2048x1367.jpg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>
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It was an exceptional evening as&nbsp;Robb Report Hong Kong&nbsp;played host to just a handful of VIP guests and distinguished RR1 Hong Kong members as a remarkable whisky, which has been meticulously matured for more than half a century,&nbsp;made&nbsp;its first appearance in Hong Kong, following successful unveilings in San Francisco, New York, and London.



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



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



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



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



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<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="684" data-id="1234797466" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/RRHK-x-Glenrothes-51-Private-Dinner-127_RS-1024x684.jpeg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234797466" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/RRHK-x-Glenrothes-51-Private-Dinner-127_RS-1024x684.jpeg 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/RRHK-x-Glenrothes-51-Private-Dinner-127_RS-300x200.jpeg 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/RRHK-x-Glenrothes-51-Private-Dinner-127_RS-768x513.jpeg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/RRHK-x-Glenrothes-51-Private-Dinner-127_RS-1536x1025.jpeg 1536w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/RRHK-x-Glenrothes-51-Private-Dinner-127_RS-2048x1367.jpeg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="684" data-id="1234797204" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/RRHK-x-Glenrothes-51-Private-Dinner-132-1024x684.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234797204" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/RRHK-x-Glenrothes-51-Private-Dinner-132-1024x684.jpg 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/RRHK-x-Glenrothes-51-Private-Dinner-132-300x200.jpg 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/RRHK-x-Glenrothes-51-Private-Dinner-132-768x513.jpg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/RRHK-x-Glenrothes-51-Private-Dinner-132-1536x1025.jpg 1536w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/RRHK-x-Glenrothes-51-Private-Dinner-132-2048x1367.jpg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="684" data-id="1234797212" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/RRHK-x-Glenrothes-51-Private-Dinner-2-1024x684.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234797212" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/RRHK-x-Glenrothes-51-Private-Dinner-2-1024x684.jpg 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/RRHK-x-Glenrothes-51-Private-Dinner-2-300x200.jpg 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/RRHK-x-Glenrothes-51-Private-Dinner-2-768x513.jpg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/RRHK-x-Glenrothes-51-Private-Dinner-2-1536x1025.jpg 1536w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/RRHK-x-Glenrothes-51-Private-Dinner-2-2048x1367.jpg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>
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While the highlight of the evening was, undoubtedly, the unveiling of The Glenrothes 51, the reveal of the highly anticipated whisky was preceded by a spirited (pun intended) talk and engaging fireside chat led by Tak Man, featuring three esteemed whisky connoisseurs: Kam Daswani of Dram Good Stuff, Benjamin Po of Edrington, and John Laurie, head of global partnerships and private client management at The Glenrothes, who had flown in from Scotland specifically for the event. Together, they delved into the nuances of whisky appreciation, sharing insights that resonated with the gathered aficionados.



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



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



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



All images shot exclusively for Robb Report Hong Kong.

RR1 event

The Glenrothes

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

By Jen Paolini and P.Ramakrishnan



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



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



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



WHEELOCK PROPERTIES 1 Plantation Road



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



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



VICTOR CONSUNJI DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION M Residences Capitol Hills



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



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



ANANDA DEVELOPMENT Porsche Design Tower Bangkok



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



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



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



ODIN PROPERTIES Odin Hills



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



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

Bangkok

Japan property

Niseko

Robb Report Hong Kong

Thailand property

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

5 Whistler Square

Belgravia

Chelsea Barracks

This HK$587 Million London Family Townhouse Has a Spa With a 10-Metre Pool

You don’t need a massive plot of land or over-the-top design to make a powerful statement in&nbsp;<a href="https://robbreport.com/tag/real-estate-2/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">real estate</a>—especially not in the Swiss&nbsp;<a href="https://robbreport.com/tag/alps/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Alps</a>.



This boxy, three-storey home and its detached carport cut striking figures among the dense greenery of the Alpine landscape during the summer and the glimmering white snow during winter. The dark-stained larch wood siding will only get darker over time through exposure to the elements, while the steep pitch of the solar-equipped standing seam metal roof helps keep snow from piling up and wood slats over some windows offer privacy while maintaining the views from inside.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/Gryon-Chalet_Living-Room.jpg-1024x576.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234798946" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/Gryon-Chalet_Living-Room.jpg-1024x576.webp 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/Gryon-Chalet_Living-Room.jpg-300x169.webp 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/Gryon-Chalet_Living-Room.jpg-768x432.webp 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/Gryon-Chalet_Living-Room.jpg.webp 1200w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">A Nero Marquina marble fireplace anchors the living room. Image courtesy of Nicolas Sedlatchek</figcaption></figure>



Designed by the firm <a href="https://www.montalbaarchitects.com/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Montalba Architects</a> as a modern homage to a classic architectural trope, the home is built into the hillside and angled to take in the best view of the 10,000-foot-tall Grand Muveran. Drawing inspiration from the shape of traditional chalets, the residence has been rethought with an open floor plan, vast picture windows, and clean-lined mid-century-inspired furnishings.



Constructed over just 10 months, Montalba worked with a local builder to complete the property. All of the millwork, including the angular staircase, was also done in collaboration with local carpenters and cabinet makers. Many of the furnishings came from <a href="https://robbreport.com/tag/switzerland/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Switzerland</a>&nbsp;as well, with additional pieces curated from throughout Europe and California.



It’s a style of sourcing that mirrors the other work of Montalba, an international firm with offices in Los Angeles, New York, and Lausanne. The company was founded back in 2004 by the Swiss-American architect David Montalba, and it draws on Swiss precision and California Modernism to create properties that evoke both styles.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/Gryon-Chalet_Bedroom.jpg-1024x576.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234798947" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/Gryon-Chalet_Bedroom.jpg-1024x576.webp 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/Gryon-Chalet_Bedroom.jpg-300x169.webp 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/Gryon-Chalet_Bedroom.jpg-768x432.webp 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/Gryon-Chalet_Bedroom.jpg.webp 1200w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">The primary bedroom has a private covered balcony that looks out on the mountains. Image courtesy of Nicolas Sedlatchek</figcaption></figure>



Modest in size at just 2,600 square feet, the Alpine abode takes advantage of lighter woods and neutral tones that contrast with the dark, moodier exterior. The main living spaces are on the middle floor and include a living room with a Nero Marquina marble fireplace and a cosy Ligne Roset sofa and armchairs. In the dining area, the tables is from Moyard, and the light-filled kitchen opens to a small patio on the home’s east side.



The top floor is largely for sleeping. The primary suite has a covered balcony and private bath, and two guest rooms share an additional bathroom with a shower sheathed in the same marble used on the downstairs fireplace. The lowest level, which is embedded into the mountainside, has a studio space with a separate entrance, as well as a small sauna and storage areas.



Click <a href="https://robbreport.com/shelter/home-design/gallery/gryon-chalet-photos-1236810929/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">here</a> to see all the photos of the modern Swiss getaway.

Chalet

Montalba Architects

Real Estate

Travel

This Mountaintop Home in Switzerland Is a Modern Take on a Classic Alpine Chalet

Late last month, Christie’s concluded its Spring Luxury Week in Hong Kong, achieving remarkable results across various categories, including jewellery, watches, wine, and handbags—and the sale of a <a href="https://robbreport.hk/posts/christies-auction-regent-kashmir-regal-ruby" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Kashmiri sapphire</a> we had our eyes on earlier. Spring Luxury Week culminated in total sales of HK$725 million, with an impressive 95 per cent sell-through rate by lot and a hammer price exceeding the low estimate by 111 per cent. 



Christie’s continues to lead the luxury auction sector in Asia, successfully selling eight of the 10 most expensive lots this season, and the auction house’s ability to attract a diverse range of buyers is evident, with 22 per cent of participants being new to their sales—an increase of 19 per cent from spring 2024. Notably, nearly half of these new buyers belong to the Millennial generation or younger, indicating a significant shift in the demographics of luxury collectors, which have traditionally leaned towards a more mature age-bracket.



Christie’s Spring Luxury Week results underscore a robust demand for high-value pieces, as demonstrated by competitive bidding that saw 45 per cent of lots sell above their high estimates. Moreover, the packed saleroom atmosphere further attested to the vibrancy of the luxury market, as Christie’s welcomed close to 4,000 visitors to its Luxury Week preview exhibition at The Henderson, a 50 per cent increase compared to the previous autumn.



Among the standout pieces,&nbsp;The Regent Kashmir sapphire, weighing 35.09 carats, achieved a record-breaking price of HK$74.6 million (US$9.5 million), setting a new auction record price per carat at US$273,021. This sapphire not only became the most valuable gem auctioned in Asia this season, but also set the standard for future auctions globally.



In the realm of fine wines,&nbsp;Part III of Iconic Wines from Joseph Lau&nbsp;garnered HK$72.8 million (US$9.3 million), with a staggering 100 per cent sell-through rate.&nbsp;



The watch segment also saw significant achievements, with the&nbsp;F.P. Journe Sonnerie Souveraine wristwatch&nbsp;commanding HK$17.5 million (US$2.2 million). This sale represented the highest value for a watch sold this season and set a new auction record for the model. Additionally, the digital engagement during these sales was noteworthy, with 50 per cent of buyers participating online, reflecting a 39 per cent increase from the previous year.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="683" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/ch_rs33-1024x683.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234799102" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/ch_rs33-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/ch_rs33-300x200.jpg 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/ch_rs33-768x512.jpg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/ch_rs33-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/ch_rs33-2048x1365.jpg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>



An&nbsp;Hermès Custom Matte Bougainvillier Alligator Quelle Idole&nbsp;sold for HK$2.5 million (approximately US$323,300), establishing a new record for a Kelly Doll. The handbags segment also showed promising growth, with competitive bidding resulting in 93 per cent sold by lot and a 125 per cent increase over low estimates.



The significant buyer growth, particularly among younger demographics, suggests a shift in the luxury market landscape. As more Millennials and Gen Z buyers enter the market, their preferences for unique and high-quality items, with instantly recognisable legacy brands (Hermès, Patek Philippe, Van Cleef &amp; Arpels, Cartier, and so on) are shaping the auction scene. The increase in digital participation, with 8.6 million viewers tuning into the auction livestreams, further illustrates the evolving nature of luxury auctions in the digital age.



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<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="752" height="1024" data-id="1234799099" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/Screenshot-2025-06-18-at-5.24.54 PM-752x1024.png" alt="" class="wp-image-1234799099" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/Screenshot-2025-06-18-at-5.24.54 PM-752x1024.png 752w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/Screenshot-2025-06-18-at-5.24.54 PM-220x300.png 220w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/Screenshot-2025-06-18-at-5.24.54 PM-768x1046.png 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/Screenshot-2025-06-18-at-5.24.54 PM-1128x1536.png 1128w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/Screenshot-2025-06-18-at-5.24.54 PM.png 1175w" sizes="(max-width: 752px) 100vw, 752px" /></figure>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="738" height="1024" data-id="1234799098" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/Screenshot-2025-06-18-at-5.24.42 PM-738x1024.png" alt="" class="wp-image-1234799098" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/Screenshot-2025-06-18-at-5.24.42 PM-738x1024.png 738w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/Screenshot-2025-06-18-at-5.24.42 PM-216x300.png 216w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/Screenshot-2025-06-18-at-5.24.42 PM-768x1066.png 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/Screenshot-2025-06-18-at-5.24.42 PM-1107x1536.png 1107w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/Screenshot-2025-06-18-at-5.24.42 PM.png 1153w" sizes="(max-width: 738px) 100vw, 738px" /></figure>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="762" height="1024" data-id="1234799101" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/Screenshot-2025-06-18-at-5.21.30 PM-762x1024.png" alt="" class="wp-image-1234799101" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/Screenshot-2025-06-18-at-5.21.30 PM-762x1024.png 762w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/Screenshot-2025-06-18-at-5.21.30 PM-223x300.png 223w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/Screenshot-2025-06-18-at-5.21.30 PM-768x1033.png 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/Screenshot-2025-06-18-at-5.21.30 PM-1142x1536.png 1142w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/Screenshot-2025-06-18-at-5.21.30 PM.png 1190w" sizes="(max-width: 762px) 100vw, 762px" /></figure>
</figure>



Christie’s Spring Luxury Week in Hong Kong has not only reaffirmed the auction house maintaining its supreme position in the luxury market but also highlighted the resilience and adaptability of the sector amidst changing buyer dynamics, as addressed by&nbsp;<a href="https://robbreport.hk/stories/1234792739">Francis Belin, president of Christie’s Asia-Pacific</a>, in an earlier interview. Christie’s impressive sales figures and record-setting auctions reflect a robust demand for luxury collectibles, driven by a new generation of buyers eager to invest in iconic pieces.&nbsp;



As Christie’s prepares for near-future sales and previews, marrying the blend of tradition and innovation—coupled with its commitment to showcasing the finest items—the auction house will undoubtedly continue to attract a global audience with a wide age demographic. The luxury market in Asia is poised for further growth, powered by a new generation showing discerning interest, intrigue, and their raised paddle number at auction.



All images courtesy of Christie’s.

Auction

Christie's

Hong Kong auction

Luxury Week

Christie’s Hong Kong Spring Luxury Week Ends With a Whopping HK$725 Million in Sales

Always wanted to live out your very own Pretty Woman fantasy—albeit one that involves idling away your days at a tropical beachfront retreat in <a href="https://robbreport.com/tag/hawaii/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Hawaii</a> as opposed to a posh Beverly Hills hotel? You’re in luck, because a blissful estate that Oscar-winning actress Julia Roberts once called home has just popped up for sale on <a href="https://robbreport.com/tag/kauai/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Kauai</a>’s magical North Shore in the remote town of Hā‘ena, asking a dash under US$30 million (approximately HK$235.08 million). Neal Norman of Hawaii Life holds <a href="https://www.hawaiilife.com/nealnorman/listings/5-8192-kuhio-hwy-hanalei-hi-96714" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">the listing</a>.



With a main home and a guest cottage offering up a total of four bedrooms and four baths in nearly 3,150 square feet, the secluded residence has plenty of room for any like-minded dreamer to eat, pray, love, and more while enjoying some particularly stunning ocean and mountain views. Famously owned by the Oscar-winning actress and her longtime cinematographer husband Danny Moder for more than a decade, records show the ranch-style property was last sold to an entity linked to a Miami-based LLC in 2020 for around US$20 million (approximately HK$156.72 million).



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large is-resized"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="712" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Limahuli-Ocean-Estate-1_5e1e08.jpg-1024x712.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234798403" style="width:840px;height:auto" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Limahuli-Ocean-Estate-1_5e1e08.jpg-1024x712.webp 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Limahuli-Ocean-Estate-1_5e1e08.jpg-300x209.webp 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Limahuli-Ocean-Estate-1_5e1e08.jpg-768x534.webp 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Limahuli-Ocean-Estate-1_5e1e08.jpg.webp 1200w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">A spacious great room spills out to a covered lanai with picturesque views of the Pacific. Image courtesy of Gelston Dwight</figcaption></figure>



Tucked away off a private road on three contiguous parcels that total 8.3 acres and offer 400 feet of ocean frontage on pristine Limahuli Beach, the three-bedroom, three-bath primary dwelling was built in 1970. Remodelled during Roberts’s tenure by the San Francisco architecture firm <a href="https://walkerwarner.com/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Walker Warner</a>, it comes complete with rustic hardwood floors, soaring exposed-beam ceilings bolstered by steel tie bars, wood-panelled walls, and vast expanses of glass, plus new solar panels.



Upon entry, an open-concept great room features a living room, a dining area, and a kitchen boasting a butcher block-topped eat-in island that seats up to four for casual meals and an accompanying workstation. French doors lead out to a covered lanai. The primary bedroom sports a spa-like bath with a large oval soaking tub and access to an outdoor shower, and one of the guest bedrooms has been converted into a gym.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large is-resized"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="689" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Limahuli-Ocean-Estate-7.jpg-1024x689.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234798404" style="width:840px;height:auto" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Limahuli-Ocean-Estate-7.jpg-1024x689.webp 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Limahuli-Ocean-Estate-7.jpg-300x202.webp 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Limahuli-Ocean-Estate-7.jpg-768x516.webp 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Limahuli-Ocean-Estate-7.jpg.webp 1200w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">An infinity pool overlooks the towering, cathedral-like green peak of Makana Mountain. Image courtesy of Gelston Dwight</figcaption></figure>



In addition to a detached one-bedroom, one-bath guest cottage, the alluring grounds also host a 490-square-foot infinity pool integrated into a wood sundeck, along with landscaped gardens, a running stream, and plenty of grassy spots suited to alfresco lounging and dining. An added bonus: The retreat is adjacent to protected land that includes Hā‘ena State Park and the National Tropical Botanical Garden.



Roberts and Moder acquired the Limahuli Beach spread in June 2009 for US$10 million (approximately HK$78.36 million), and they previously owned another Kauai property, a charming compound on Hanalei Bay they bought in late 2011 for US$13.3 million (approximately HK$104.22 million) and offloaded to <a href="https://archive.ph/o/SF80k/https:/www.bizjournals.com/bizjournals/search/results" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Michael Fleiss</a>, creator of ABC’s The Bachelor, in 2016 for US$16.2 million (approximately HK$126.94 million).



Click <a href="https://robbreport.com/shelter/celebrity-homes/gallery/julia-roberts-house-in-photos-1236748500" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">here</a> for more photos of the Kauai residence.

Hawaii

Julia Roberts

Kauai

property

Julia Roberts’s Former Hawaii Hideaway Can Be Yours for HK$235 Million

In a significant move and expansion for global luxury lifestyle journalism, Robb Report proudly announces the launch of Robb Report en Español, a new platform that seamlessly integrates the curated content of Robb Report Mexico with its grand debut in Spain. Robb Report en Español is an innovative initiative set to cater to Spanish-speaking audiences who share a passion for the finer things in life, and for luxury without compromise.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="838" height="1024" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/rrsss-838x1024.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234798824" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/rrsss-838x1024.jpg 838w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/rrsss-245x300.jpg 245w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/rrsss-768x939.jpg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/rrsss.jpg 1080w" sizes="(max-width: 838px) 100vw, 838px" /></figure>



Launched in Madrid, the platform will showcase exclusive content from Latin America, Spain, and other luxury capitals around the globe, in Spanish language. Luke Bahrenburg, president of&nbsp;Robb Report, says that “this launch represents a significant milestone as we strive to connect deeply with Spanish-speaking luxury enthusiasts.”



Alberto Romero, a distinguished journalist with over 15 years of experience in luxury media, will lead the editorial team of&nbsp;Robb Report en Español, promising a wealth of insights that spans the key pillars of&nbsp;Robb Report&nbsp;editorial coverage. Later in the year, the inaugural print edition of&nbsp;Robb Report en Español&nbsp;is set to debut, further solidifying&nbsp;Robb Report’s presence in Europe and its commitment to delivering captivating stories for a discerning audience.&nbsp;



By the end of 2025, there will be 21 international editions of Robb Report as other countries in Asia and Europe launch their titles—watch this space for more updates!

Robb Report

Robb Report in Spanish

Spain

Spanish

Robb Report en Español Joins the Global Robb Report Family

Finally, a wellness centre in Asia that does take itself seriously but also knows how to have fun. If you want to detox and then have, well, a debauched dinner, it’s all possible at Layan Life, part of the Anantara Layan Phuket Resort, named for the river it overlooks.



America-born Bill Heinecke, who is the best-known and most prolific hotel owner in Thailand, had in 2014 bought the already-operating Bundarika resort for its 400 metres of private beach and 6.4 hectares of surrounding land that were just calling out for creativity. Sure enough, he provided it, in the form of a rebuilt 77-room resort, with 15 stupendous villas for sale, restaurants galore, a wedding chapel, and, as of November 2024, the Layan Life wellness centre. 



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="683" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Layan_Life_by_Anantara_Wellness_Pool_0381-1024x683.jpeg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234799797" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Layan_Life_by_Anantara_Wellness_Pool_0381-1024x683.jpeg 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Layan_Life_by_Anantara_Wellness_Pool_0381-300x200.jpeg 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Layan_Life_by_Anantara_Wellness_Pool_0381-768x512.jpeg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Layan_Life_by_Anantara_Wellness_Pool_0381-1536x1024.jpeg 1536w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Layan_Life_by_Anantara_Wellness_Pool_0381-2048x1365.jpeg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>



According to the charming Anantara GM, Frédéric Varnier—surely the best luxury hotelier ever produced by the South Pacific island capital of Nouméa—he and Bill Heinecke, who has a villa here (partly to house a couple of cars and a much-used Vespa), were daydreaming about wellness. As we all know, wellness, betterment, longevity, maximising life, and combating ageing are now not only mainstream concepts but a way of life—and a big-bucks business.



The result of their conception is spectacular. Imagine a two-floor rectangular building set in a football-field-sized lake. The architect of the 2,767-square-metre facility is, in fact, Martin Palleros of Tierra Design, and the interiors are by Bangkok’s cult residential specialists, P49. What do you find within? Naturally, there’s a brilliant gym, with the latest Technogym equipment, and dedicated studios for Pilates and yoga. The hydrotherapy area has more than enough saunas and steam rooms. There’s cryotherapy, IV therapy, and colonic hydrotherapy, and a hyperbaric oxygen chamber that resembles a Musk-to-the-moon pod: climb into it, someone closes the mirrored lid, and watches minutely. After, say, 30 minutes, every ounce of blood feels rejuvenated.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="683" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Layan_Life_by_Anantara_Wellness_Gym_7234-HDR-1024x683.jpeg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234799798" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Layan_Life_by_Anantara_Wellness_Gym_7234-HDR-1024x683.jpeg 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Layan_Life_by_Anantara_Wellness_Gym_7234-HDR-300x200.jpeg 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Layan_Life_by_Anantara_Wellness_Gym_7234-HDR-768x512.jpeg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Layan_Life_by_Anantara_Wellness_Gym_7234-HDR-1536x1024.jpeg 1536w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Layan_Life_by_Anantara_Wellness_Gym_7234-HDR-2048x1365.jpeg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>



Of course there is traditional Thai medicine, not a mile removed from TCM, traditional Chinese medicine, and there’s pain management, perhaps not surprisingly the most popular treatment. My therapist, working on a back muscle aggravated by a recent fall from a rowing machine, worked with one of Layan Life’s three different Winback deep-tissue wands from Korea. The equipment throughout is, as any Heinecke follower would expect, the best—as are the therapists, some of whom honed their skills working at Chiva-Som’s satellite setup in Qatar for the 2022 FIFA World Cup.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="683" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Layan_Life_by_Anantara_Plunge_Pool_Landscape-1024x683.jpeg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234799796" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Layan_Life_by_Anantara_Plunge_Pool_Landscape-1024x683.jpeg 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Layan_Life_by_Anantara_Plunge_Pool_Landscape-300x200.jpeg 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Layan_Life_by_Anantara_Plunge_Pool_Landscape-768x512.jpeg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Layan_Life_by_Anantara_Plunge_Pool_Landscape-1536x1024.jpeg 1536w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Layan_Life_by_Anantara_Plunge_Pool_Landscape-2048x1365.jpeg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>



Ultra-enthusiasts could spend all day, every day, working their way through the many treatments on offer. Everyone has a pre-arrival assessment, virtual, and, after checking in at the resort, there’s a one-on-one consultation, which includes the dreaded standing on scales (while holding your breath in as hard as you can). Yes, the nutritionist can design a bespoke weight-management programme, specially for you. Although regular retreats are planned, at this early stage of Layan Life, every multi-treatment concept is one-off.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="683" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Layan_Life_by_Anantara_Aerial_Yoga_Female_Model_Landscape-1024x683.jpeg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234799795" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Layan_Life_by_Anantara_Aerial_Yoga_Female_Model_Landscape-1024x683.jpeg 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Layan_Life_by_Anantara_Aerial_Yoga_Female_Model_Landscape-300x200.jpeg 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Layan_Life_by_Anantara_Aerial_Yoga_Female_Model_Landscape-768x512.jpeg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Layan_Life_by_Anantara_Aerial_Yoga_Female_Model_Landscape-1536x1024.jpeg 1536w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Layan_Life_by_Anantara_Aerial_Yoga_Female_Model_Landscape-2048x1365.jpeg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>



Meanwhile, your other half can be sunning or running or windsurfing. You can both, at any time, enjoy some of Asia’s best steaks at Age, or new-wave Thai at Dara. Toast that evening with a glass or more of Thai rosé—the 2024 GranMonte Sakuna rosé, for one, from Khao Yai. Produced by Thailand’s preeminent female oenologist Visootha “Nikki” Lohitnavy, it received a gold medal at the Hong Kong International Wine &amp; Spirit Competition (HKIWSC) in 2024. Honestly, Layan Life layers wellness with so much fun.

Anantara

Anantara Layan Phuket Resort

Layan Life

Phuket

Thailand

wellness

Inside Layan Life, the New Holistic Wellness and Longevity Centre at Anantara Layan Phuket Resort

<a href="https://robbreport.com/partners/hilton-luxury-brand-adds-hawaii-property-portfolio-1235856417/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Hilton</a>&nbsp;is the latest hospitality heavyweight to dive into cruises.



The American company has announced its flagship luxury brand,&nbsp;<a href="https://robbreport.com/shelter/homes-for-sale/waldorf-astoria-residences-new-york-first-residents-1236204658/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Waldorf Astoria</a>, will begin offering voyages next year, bringing even more of the five-star hotel experience to the water.



Kicking off in late 2026, the new <a href="https://stories.hilton.com/emea/releases/waldorf-astoria-set-to-launch-one-of-a-kind-river-nile-experience" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Waldorf Astoria Nile River Experience</a> will allow travellers to explore the world’s longest river in the lap of luxury. Ranging from four to six nights, the itineraries will spotlight some of Egypt’s most famous landmarks. The routes run either downriver from Luxor to Aswan or upriver from Aswan to Luxor, with private docks in both locations. Guests will be able to see historic temples in the Valley of the Kings, as well as many more cultural attractions in Esna, Edfu, and Kom Ombo. Each stop will provide extraordinary insight into Egypt’s rich history, according to Waldorf Astoria.



The hotel brand didn’t specify the ship it will use for the experience, but says it will feature five decks and 29 suites. It will offer hotel-like amenities, such as a high-tech fitness centre, a lavish spa, and a rooftop deck. Gourmands will also be catered to, with the Waldorf Astoria’s signature Peacock Alley serving up refined dishes and a brasserie offering Egyptian, Mediterranean, and international cuisine. Guests can expect the finest Waldorf Astoria service throughout their stay, with personal concierges at their whim.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large is-resized"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/Waldorf_Astoria_Cruise_2.jpg-1024x576.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234799277" style="width:840px;height:auto" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/Waldorf_Astoria_Cruise_2.jpg-1024x576.webp 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/Waldorf_Astoria_Cruise_2.jpg-300x169.webp 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/Waldorf_Astoria_Cruise_2.jpg-768x432.webp 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/Waldorf_Astoria_Cruise_2.jpg.webp 1200w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">A render of the lounge in the suite.  Image courtesy of Hilton</figcaption></figure>



“This new destination experience offers guests a spectacular view of Egypt, and we look forward to welcoming guests aboard this one-of-a-kind experience when it launches next year,” Dino Michael, senior vice president and global head,&nbsp;<a href="https://robbreport.com/tag/hilton/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Hilton</a>&nbsp;Luxury Brands, said in a statement.



Hilton helms some 24 brands that collectively comprise more than 8,600 properties across the globe. It currently operates 14 hotels in Egypt, but is set to triple its presence with plans to&nbsp;<a href="https://stories.hilton.com/emea/releases/waldorf-astoria-set-to-launch-one-of-a-kind-river-nile-experience" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">open 35 hotels</a>&nbsp;in the country. Waldorf Astoria itself has 34 locations worldwide, including a 589-room hotel in Cairo that opened in 2023. Focusing on Egypt is a smart move: The country welcomed 3.9 million tourists during the first quarter of 2025, marking a&nbsp;<a href="https://www.sis.gov.eg/Story/208442/Tourism-Minister-Confidence-in-Egyptian-Destination-on-the-Rise-Despite-Geopolitical-Challenges?lang=en-us." target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">25 percent increase</a> compared to the previous year.



There are, however, several players offering high-end cruises along the Nile, such as&nbsp;<a href="https://robbreport.com/travel/destinations/viking-aton-ship-nile-river-cruise-1235401646/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Viking</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://robbreport.com/motors/marine/ama-waterways-nile-river-cruise-1235972507/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Ama Waterways</a>. (You can charter <a href="https://robbreport.com/motors/marine/ypi-berge-luxury-charter-yact-nile-river-1234660349/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">a luxury yacht</a>&nbsp;to sail the world-famous river, too.) Waldorf Astoria is also quite late to the cruising game:&nbsp;<a href="https://robbreport.com/travel/hotels/ritz-carlton-ilma-yacht-1235977858/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Ritz-Carlton</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://robbreport.com/travel/destinations/belmonds-new-epicurean-burgundy-is-most-the-decadent-2901455/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Belmond</a>, <a href="https://robbreport.com/motors/marine/aman-sama-cruise-liner-1234654724/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Aman</a>, and&nbsp;<a href="https://robbreport.com/motors/marine/four-seasons-yachts-holiday-itineraries-1235884377/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Four Seasons</a>&nbsp;have all launched or are planning to launch&nbsp;<a href="https://robbreport.com/motors/marine/gallery/4-luxury-hotels-taking-to-sea-1234773134/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">cruise liners</a>. But hey, there’s nothing like a little friendly competition to help raise the bar.

cruise ship

Nile

Nile river

The Waldorf Astoria

The Waldorf Astoria Is Launching an All-Suite Cruise Ship on the Nile River Next Year

Fairmont

Fairmont Hotels and Resorts

Fairmont Mumbai

Fairmont Tokyo

Fairmont Udaipur Palace

Omer Acar

Luxury Hotel Brand Fairmont Is Launching 5 New Properties in Asia This Year

Aston Martin

Bentley

Hypercar

Lamborghini

luxury car

motors

Rolls-Royce

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

hybrid

Supercar

Aston Martin Just Unveiled Its First Plug-In Hybrid Supercar

Rolls-Royce’s Ghost Extended Series II, the latest iteration of the iconic grand tourer, has made its grand entrance in Hong Kong. Unveiled against the backdrop of Lantau Island, the launch event embraced a French Riviera theme—a cherished destination for Rolls-Royce’s discerning clientele—evoking the romantic allure of the grand-touring tradition.



It was a fitting stage for a vehicle that epitomises the intersection of unparalleled opulence, performance, craftsmanship, and design that we’ve reviewed, appreciated, and coveted at Robb Report Hong Kong. After all, under the legendary marque, Rolls-Royce has been voted among <a href="https://robbreport.com/motors/cars/lists/greatest-luxury-cars-all-time-1236189132/duesenberg-model-j/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">the greatest of luxury cars</a> time and again, and it often crops up as a leading contender for <a href="https://robbreport.com/motors/cars/lists/2025-car-of-the-year-1236202293/bentley-continental-gt-speed-first-edition/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Car of the Year</a>. In fact, every new launch, feature, and even colour scheme has been written about innumerable times since Robb Report was launched in 1976, when it was an exclusive circular for Rolls-Royce owners! As the Rolls-Royce Ghost Extended Series II wheels into view, there are so many reasons why this is yet another strong offering.



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The exterior of the Ghost Extended Series II showcases a stunning evolution of Rolls-Royce’s monolithic design philosophy. The façade retains the marque’s signature Pantheon grille, now more contemporary and refined, framed by updated headlight graphics that flow elegantly from the grille to the front wings. The new chrome embellishments create a striking visual plinth for the Spirit of Ecstasy mascot, enhancing the vehicle’s imposing presence.



Inside, the craftsmanship is nothing short of extraordinary, as the interior features a seamless blend of traditional artistry and modern technology. A central information display, housed within a pillar-to-pillar glass panel, integrates Rolls-Royce’s advanced operating system, allowing clients to personalise their environment, and the introduction of grey-stained ash, a unique new material, complements the elegant design, while the meticulously crafted upholstery showcases Rolls-Royce’s commitment to bespoke luxury.



At the heart of the Ghost Extended Series II lies the formidable 6.75-litre twin-turbocharged V12 engine, a hallmark of the marque’s commitment to performance and refinement. It’s a powerhouse that delivers an effortless surge of power, achieving maximum torque at just 1,600 rpm, facilitating an unparalleled driving experience characterised by its distinctive “waftability.” A planar suspension system further enhances this driving experience, enabling the vehicle to glide over any terrain with an extraordinary sense of stability.



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<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="683" data-id="1234799229" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/5iARXp8w_RS-1024x683.jpeg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234799229" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/5iARXp8w_RS-1024x683.jpeg 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/5iARXp8w_RS-300x200.jpeg 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/5iARXp8w_RS-768x512.jpeg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/5iARXp8w_RS-1536x1025.jpeg 1536w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/5iARXp8w_RS-2048x1366.jpeg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="683" data-id="1234799230" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/RErwGr-g-1024x683.jpeg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234799230" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/RErwGr-g-1024x683.jpeg 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/RErwGr-g-300x200.jpeg 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/RErwGr-g-768x512.jpeg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/RErwGr-g-1536x1025.jpeg 1536w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/RErwGr-g-2048x1366.jpeg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>
</figure>



Rolls-Royce has invested heavily in chassis innovations, ensuring that the Ghost Extended Series II does not merely transport its occupants, but also engages them in a dynamic driving experience. The combination of all-wheel steering and advanced suspension technologies allows for a remarkable blend of agility and comfort, making it a truly driver-focused vehicle.



Incorporating cutting-edge technology, the Ghost Extended Series II features the Spirit digital interface, which places the car’s controls at the fingertips of the driver. This advanced system not only enhances usability but also integrates seamlessly with the bespoke lifestyle of its owners. The Whispers app, a private members’ platform, allows clients to manage their vehicle remotely, elevating the ownership experience to an unprecedented level.



Moreover, the entertainment features have been significantly upgraded. Rear-seat passengers can now connect multiple devices to enjoy independent streaming on high-definition screens, all while benefiting from a state-of-the-art audio system. The 18-speaker setup, enhanced by a powerful 1,400-watt amplifier, transforms the cabin into a luxurious auditory experience, cementing the automobile’s reputation as a mobile concert hall.



<figure class="wp-block-gallery has-nested-images columns-default is-cropped wp-block-gallery-12 is-layout-flex wp-block-gallery-is-layout-flex">
<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="683" data-id="1234799233" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/8xZSEdy6_RS-1024x683.jpeg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234799233" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/8xZSEdy6_RS-1024x683.jpeg 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/8xZSEdy6_RS-300x200.jpeg 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/8xZSEdy6_RS-768x512.jpeg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/8xZSEdy6_RS-1536x1024.jpeg 1536w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/8xZSEdy6_RS-2048x1365.jpeg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" data-id="1234799236" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/IIkxGCd1-1024x576.jpeg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234799236" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/IIkxGCd1-1024x576.jpeg 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/IIkxGCd1-300x169.jpeg 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/IIkxGCd1-768x432.jpeg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/IIkxGCd1-1536x864.jpeg 1536w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/IIkxGCd1-2048x1152.jpeg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="683" data-id="1234799235" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/7hNuifTy_RS-1024x683.jpeg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234799235" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/7hNuifTy_RS-1024x683.jpeg 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/7hNuifTy_RS-300x200.jpeg 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/7hNuifTy_RS-768x512.jpeg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/7hNuifTy_RS-1536x1024.jpeg 1536w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/7hNuifTy_RS-2048x1365.jpeg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>
</figure>



True to the Rolls-Royce ethos, the Ghost Extended Series II offers an extensive array of bespoke options for clients to express their individuality. With over 44,000 paint hues available and the possibility to create unique shades, the vehicle becomes a canvas for personal expression. In fact, the new exterior colour, Mustique Blue, inspired by the Caribbean island, exemplifies this commitment to bespoke aesthetics.&nbsp;Interior customisation options are equally impressive, with materials sourced from the finest suppliers and crafted by skilled artisans. Whether opting for the elegant Duality Twill fabric or the innovative Placed Perforation leather technique, each choice reflects personal taste and lifestyle.



The Rolls-Royce Ghost Extended Series II is not merely a vehicle; it is a statement of luxury, performance, and individuality. Designed for those who prioritise both elegance and driving dynamics, this latest iteration embodies the spirit of modern grand touring. As you embark on your journey, you are enveloped in a mesmerising atmosphere of refinement and sophistication, ensuring that every drive is an experience like no other.



For those seeking a more daring interpretation of luxury, the Black Badge Ghost Series II also awaits commissioning—this variant offers a bold aesthetic and enhanced performance, appealing to those who desire a more assertive presence on the road.



Learn more on <a href="https://www.instagram.com/rollsroycemotorcarshongkong/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">@rollsroycemotorcarshongkong</a>. 



All images courtesy of Rolls-Royce Motor Cars Hong Kong.

Grand Touring

Hong Kong Rolls-Royce

Rolls-Royce Ghost Extended Series II

Rolls-Royce in Hong Kong

Rolls-Royce Ghost Extended Series II Unveiled: A Masterpiece of Grand Touring

Sometimes you just need to shake things up. No matter how successful something may be.



Anyone familiar with&nbsp;<a href="https://robbreport.com/tag/audi/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Audi</a>&nbsp;knows that the automaker is content to leave well enough alone, as long as it’s working. Just look at the German brand’s best-selling model, the Q5, which hasn’t undergone any major changes since the second-generation version debuted in 2016. Sure, there was a facelift earlier this decade, but the midsize&nbsp;<a href="https://robbreport.com/tag/suv/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">SUV</a>&nbsp;has not been altered in any meaningful way—until now, that is.



The 2025 model year sees the debut of the third iteration of the Q5 and its performance variant, the SQ5. As hoped, both models have received a much-needed makeover and a bump in performance.&nbsp;Robb Report&nbsp;recently got the chance to take the latter for a spin on the winding mountain roads surrounding Aspen, Colo. Here’s what we thought after time behind the wheel of the new SQ5.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large is-resized"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/sq507.jpg-1024x576.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234798958" style="width:839px;height:auto" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/sq507.jpg-1024x576.webp 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/sq507.jpg-300x169.webp 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/sq507.jpg-768x432.webp 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/sq507.jpg.webp 1200w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">The 2025 Audi SQ5. Image courtesy of Audi</figcaption></figure>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">What’s New for 2025</h2>



The latest SQ5 has been thoroughly redesigned, both inside and out, with everything from the grille to the wheels given an appropriately modern sheen. It’s still powered by a turbocharged V-6, but that now comes mated to a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission. This is the most powerful power plant we’ve seen in the model to date (even if the vehicle will still leave performance junkies longing for an RS variant). In all the ways that matter, the new SQ5 is better than its predecessors.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Design</h2>



It’s impossible to miss the biggest difference between the second- and third-generation SQ5. The general shape and profile remain the same, but sharper lines and a more athletic stance combine to make this the best-looking version of the SUV yet. We’re especially taken with the redesigned front fascia, which features a larger grille sandwiched between a set of prominent air intakes. The new lighting package, which includes matrix-design LED headlights and a taillight strip that spans the width of the vehicle, also helps bring the design into the 2020s.



The interior has also been re-envisioned, with the biggest changes up front. The SQ5 has a curved dual-display configuration that stretches from the cockpit to the centre stack and includes an 11.9-inch digital-gauge cluster and a 14.5-inch touchscreen. If that’s not enough for you, the Prestige package adds a 10.9-inch screen for the passenger—featuring an auto-shutter function so that it doesn’t distract the driver while the vehicle is in motion—and a 16-speaker Bang &amp; Olufsen sound system. The seats, which were covered in Arras Red Nappa leather in the SUV we drove, are large and comfortable, and there’s plenty of shoulder room in the front and back. There’s plenty of cargo room as well, with up to 56.9-cubic-feet of space for groceries or camping gear when the three-seat rear bench is folded down.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/sq503.jpg-1024x576.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234798959" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/sq503.jpg-1024x576.webp 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/sq503.jpg-300x169.webp 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/sq503.jpg-768x432.webp 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/sq503.jpg.webp 1200w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">The interior has been re-envisioned, with the biggest changes up front. Image courtesy of Audi</figcaption></figure>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Power Train and Other Hardware</h2>



The 2025 SQ5 may have a new body and reworked cabin, but the engine beneath its clamshell hood is the same turbocharged 3.0-litre V-6 that’s been there since the model’s 2013 launch. The mill is more powerful than it was last generation, now producing 362 hp and 406 ft lbs of torque, which is 13 hp and 37 ft lbs of torque more than the 2024 SQ5 (and 94 hp and 111 ft lbs of torque more than the new Q5). The old transmission, an eight-speed automatic, has also been swapped out for the aforementioned seven-speed dual-clutch automatic defined by impressively smooth shifting.



Because it’s a performance Audi, the SQ5 comes equipped with the automaker’s trademark Quattro all-wheel-drive system and an adaptive air suspension. Those two features come in handy on rough roads and in inclement weather, even if the SQ5, like most models in its class, isn’t exactly fit for rock climbing. You can take it off-road—trust us, we did it during our drive—but it’s no 4×4.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Performance</h2>



The most powerful Q5 variant may not be one of Audi’s top-tier RS models, but it can still hold its own. Audi claims the SUV can accelerate from zero to 60 mph in 4.6 seconds, which is a tenth of a second faster than last year’s model, while its top speed remains unchanged at 155 mph. &nbsp;It may not be a match for the Porsche Macan, which should come as no surprise, but it can really move, even 12,500 feet above sea level. The delivery of power takes a hit at high altitudes—you’re said to lose three percent output for every 1,000 feet of elevation—but thanks to the V-6’s turbocharger, the SQ5 still felt like it had plenty of pep. Whenever we had to pass someone on one of the region’s long two-lane roads, it was a breeze.



The best part of the driving experience wasn’t the power, though. It was how the SUV handled. True, despite being one of Audi’s S models, the SQ5 doesn’t steer like a sports car, but we found the handling to be pleasingly precise, especially while slaloming down mountain roads in slushy conditions, which we encountered towards the end of our drive. It didn’t matter how slippery it got, control never felt compromised.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/sq504.jpg-1024x576.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234798960" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/sq504.jpg-1024x576.webp 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/sq504.jpg-300x169.webp 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/sq504.jpg-768x432.webp 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/sq504.jpg.webp 1200w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Audi claims the SQ5 midsize SUV can accelerate from zero to 60 mph in 4.6 seconds. Image courtesy of Audi</figcaption></figure>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Is It Worth It?</h2>



You know what you’re getting with Audi. For the past four decades, the marque has built a reputation in the US on smooth-driving, tastefully appointed vehicles that that won’t let you down. The SQ5, which starts at US$64,800 (approximately HK$508,670), is sure to reinforce this reputation.



Whether or not it deserves a spot in the garage comes down to your priorities. If you want something that will get your blood truly pumping, perhaps look elsewhere. But if all-around capability, reliability, and versatility are your focus, the more powerful and precise 2025 Audi SQ5 will kick that morning commute up a notch, regardless of conditions.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Specifications</h2>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Vehicle Type</h3>



<ul>
<li>Midsize SUV</li>
</ul>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">In Production Since</h3>



<ul>
<li>2013</li>
</ul>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Power Train</h3>



<ul>
<li>Turbocharged 3.0-litre V-6, 362 hp and 406 ft lbs of torque</li>



<li>Seven-speed S Tronic dual-clutch transmission</li>



<li>Mileage: 22 mpg combined city/highway, 19 mpg city, 26 mpg highway</li>
</ul>



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



<ul>
<li>Zero to 60 mph:&nbsp;4.6 seconds</li>



<li>Top Speed:&nbsp;155 mph</li>
</ul>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Price as Tested</h3>



<ul>
<li>US$74,740 (approximately HK$586,665)</li>
</ul>



Click <a href="https://robbreport.com/motors/cars/gallery/photos-2025-audi-sq5-suv-review-1236812137" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">here</a> for more photos of the 2025 Audi SQ5.

audi

Road Test: Audi’s Refreshed SQ5 SUV Delivers More Power and Precision

While Mercedes lines up fourth in the tally of&nbsp;<a href="https://robbreport.com/motors/cars/formula-1-saudi-arabian-grand-prix-biggest-spectacle-racing-1236502423/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Formula 1</a>&nbsp;Constructors’ Championship titles, securing eight in 75 seasons, it appears to be taking pole position when it comes to involvement with the soon-to-be released blockbuster focused on the premier&nbsp;<a href="https://robbreport.com/tag/motorsport/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">motorsport</a>&nbsp;series. The automaker and the&nbsp;<a href="https://robbreport.com/motors/cars/interview-mercedes-f1-toto-wolff-global-mercedes-ceo-ola-kallenius-1234752691/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Mercedes-AMG Petronas F1 team</a>&nbsp;have been closely associated with what’s promising to be a benchmark racing film, the&nbsp;<a href="https://robbreport.com/motors/cars/f1-movie-first-trailer-bradd-pitt-1236362599/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">highly anticipated&nbsp;F1</a>, opening this summer. Both in honor of this collaboration and representative of it, the marque debuted the 2026&nbsp;<a href="https://robbreport.com/tag/mercedes-amg/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Mercedes-AMG</a>&nbsp;GT 63 “APXGP Edition” on Saturday night as part of the festivities surrounding the Miami Grand Prix.



“F1&nbsp;brilliantly intertwines the fictional APXGP team with the real-world&nbsp;<a href="https://robbreport.com/tag/formula-1/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Formula 1</a>,” stated Michael Schiebe, chairman of the board of management for Mercedes-AMG, in the manufacturer’s released announcement. “With the exclusive APXGP Edition, we’re creating a limited number of GTs that blend AMG’s excitement with the cinematic masterpiece&nbsp;F1.”



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large is-resized"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/2-w-.jpg-1024x576.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234797747" style="width:840px;height:auto" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/2-w-.jpg-1024x576.webp 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/2-w-.jpg-300x169.webp 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/2-w-.jpg-768x432.webp 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/2-w-.jpg.webp 1200w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">The 2026 Mercedes-AMG GT 63 “APXGP Edition” 2+2 coupe. Image courtesy of Mercedes-Benz AG</figcaption></figure>



What separates the special-edition car from other variants in the Mercedes-AMG GT model line are aesthetic embellishments more than performance enhancements. Interestingly, the movie-inspired 2+2 coupe is not equipped with the&nbsp;<a href="https://robbreport.com/motors/cars/first-drive-2025-mercedes-amg-gt-63-s-e-performance-hybrid-1235800376/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">AMG GT 63 S E Performance</a>’s 805 hp setup, but carries the base model’s 577 hp, 4.0-litre biturbo V-8, which is mated to AMG’s nine-speed automatic transmission. Complementing the power train is the 4Matic+ all-wheel-drive configuration, the Active Ride Control adaptive suspension, active rear-wheel steering, and an aerodynamics package. The latter includes a front splitter, rear diffusor, and fixed rear wing—all comprised of carbon fibre.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large is-resized"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/3-w-.jpg-1024x576.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234797748" style="width:840px;height:auto" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/3-w-.jpg-1024x576.webp 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/3-w-.jpg-300x169.webp 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/3-w-.jpg-768x432.webp 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/3-w-.jpg.webp 1200w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">The finish on the 21-inch wheels and the checkered-flag pattern on the car’s flanks are among the ubiquitous Race Gold–coloured accents. Image courtesy of Mercedes-Benz AG</figcaption></figure>



Truly defining this latest release are its overall livery and accents. The car is dressed in a dark APXGP Edition paint scheme that integrates &nbsp;a unique design motif done by hand. The marque’s Race Gold colour festoons the outline of the radiator grille, front fenders, rear apron, and rear diffusor blade, as well as the 21-inch AMG Forged Cross-Spoke wheels, among other components. There’s even a checkered-flag pattern on the front flanks. The Race Gold theme continues inside, seen on such trim elements as the upholstery’s contrast stitching, the steering wheel’s carbon fibre, and the door panels. The APXGP logo and additional signature badging are also part of the presentation. Other amenities include an 1,170-watt, 15-speaker Burmester audio system and the AMG Track Pace system, which records data during circuit sessions.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large is-resized"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/4-w-.jpg-1024x576.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234797749" style="width:840px;height:auto" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/4-w-.jpg-1024x576.webp 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/4-w-.jpg-300x169.webp 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/4-w-.jpg-768x432.webp 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/4-w-.jpg.webp 1200w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Inside, there’s access to the onboard AMG Track Pace system to record performance data. Image courtesy of Mercedes-Benz AG</figcaption></figure>



Yet while details about the car are plentiful, less is known about the movie, although its authentic portrayal of track competition has already been well publicised. Racing scenes were shot on actual Formula 1 circuits during grand prix weekends. Also surmised by the movie trailer is that the plot surrounds fictional driver Sonny Hayes, played by actor&nbsp;<a href="https://robbreport.com/lifestyle/news/brad-pitt-training-for-f1-movie-1235620811/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Brad Pitt</a>. The racer is searching for redemption and validation in the cockpit of a Formula 1 race car, and must vie for the spotlight with a teammate played by Damson Idris. The two are competing under the banner of the APXGP team overseen by actor Javier Bardem’s character.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large is-resized"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/6-w-.jpg-1024x576.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234797750" style="width:840px;height:auto" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/6-w-.jpg-1024x576.webp 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/6-w-.jpg-300x169.webp 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/6-w-.jpg-768x432.webp 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/6-w-.jpg.webp 1200w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">The car carries the base model’s 577 hp, 4.0-liter biturbo V-8, which is mated to AMG’s nine-speed automatic transmission. Image courtesy of Mercedes-Benz AG</figcaption></figure>



The movie, from Apple Original Films, was produced and directed by Joseph Kosinski—with&nbsp;Top Gun: Maverick&nbsp;to his credit. It also had a number of co-producers, most notable being Pitt himself, in association with his Plan B Entertainment, and seven-time Formula 1 champion&nbsp;<a href="https://robbreport.com/motors/cars/lewis-hamilton-design-modern-day-ferrari-f40-1236401046/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Sir Lewis Hamilton</a>, in conjunction with his own Dawn Apollo Films. Mercedes-AMG’s SL, G-Wagen, and GT also appear on screen, as do its official Formula 1 safety and medical cars.



During a recent interview with&nbsp;Robb Report, Mercedes-AMG Petronas F1 driver&nbsp;<a href="https://robbreport.com/motors/cars/formula-1-george-russell-talks-miami-grand-prix-1236704671/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">George Russell</a>&nbsp;briefly commented on the film that he, and many of the other drivers and teams, participated in. “The guys have kindly shown us a number of the clips of what they’ve been doing to make it look as realistic as possible,” says Russell. “From what I’ve seen, they’ve done an incredible job, far better than I could have imagined.”



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large is-resized"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/1-w-.jpg-1024x576.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234797751" style="width:840px;height:auto" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/1-w-.jpg-1024x576.webp 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/1-w-.jpg-300x169.webp 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/1-w-.jpg-768x432.webp 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/1-w-.jpg.webp 1200w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Actor Damson Idris poses with one of the fictional APXGP team’s Formula 1 cars and the 2026 Mercedes-AMG GT 63 “APXGP Edition” coupé. Image courtesy of Mercedes-Benz AG</figcaption></figure>



With regards to the GT 63 “APXGP Edition” coupé, Russell had not yet seen it at the time, but had high praise for the AMG GT 63 model in general. “I’ve driven that car a lot. It’s really light and nimble on a racetrack, really easy to get the rear of the car around as well and have a lot of fun,” says Russell. He also mentions “seeing the improvements in the suspension, in the ride, how it transitions from comfort mode to race mode,” and calls it “really good for that sort of versatility.”



The Mercedes-AMG GT 63 “APXGP Edition” will be limited to only 52 examples. As for the movie&nbsp;F1, that will be released globally on 25 June, though it’s not scheduled to be at North American theatres until 27 June.



Click <a href="https://robbreport.com/motors/cars/gallery/mercedes-amg-gt-63-apxgp-edition-in-photos-1236707850" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">here</a> for more photos of the 2026 Mercedes-AMG GT 63 “APXGP Edition” coupé. 



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><a href="https://robbreport.com/motors/cars/gallery/mercedes-amg-gt-63-apxgp-edition-in-photos-1236707850"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="577" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/50-w-_a56aaa.jpg-1024x577.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234799111" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/50-w-_a56aaa.jpg-1024x577.webp 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/50-w-_a56aaa.jpg-300x169.webp 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/50-w-_a56aaa.jpg-768x433.webp 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/50-w-_a56aaa.jpg.webp 1200w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></a></figure>



<a href="https://robbreport.com/?post_type=pmc-gallery&amp;p=1236707850/"> </a>The 2026 Mercedes-AMG GT 63 “APXGP Edition” coupe. Mercedes-Benz AG

Brad Pitt

Mercedes-AMG

Mercedes-Benz

Meet the New Mercedes-AMG GT Promoting Brad Pitt’s Movie ‘F1’

McLaren’s Oscar Piastri may have been the big winner at this year’s Miami Grand Prix, but Bonhams didn’t exactly fare shabbily.



The auction house held its&nbsp;<a href="https://robbreport.com/motors/cars/gallery/10-best-cars-bonhams-second-miami-auction-1236700853/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">second annual Miami sale</a>&nbsp;in May at the Miami International Autodrome, just prior to the first American date on the&nbsp;<a href="https://robbreport.com/tag/formula-1/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Formula 1</a>&nbsp;calendar.&nbsp;Robb Report&nbsp;was on hand for the boisterous event, which brought in over US$12.6 million (approximately HK$98.17 million), despite no one taking home the headline lot.



As with the one last year, the auction was held on the Miami track in front of the winner’s podium, where Piastri would be presented with his fourth Grand Prix trophy of the season on Sunday evening. Bids were taken over the phone and online, but only the more than 250 people in attendance the night prior got to see the actual cars driven onto center stage before bidding commenced.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large is-resized"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/bonhamsmiami01.jpg-1024x576.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234797823" style="width:838px;height:auto" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/bonhamsmiami01.jpg-1024x576.webp 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/bonhamsmiami01.jpg-300x169.webp 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/bonhamsmiami01.jpg-768x432.webp 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/bonhamsmiami01.jpg.webp 1200w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Cars like this 2016 Dodge Viper ACR were driven onto the Miami Grand Prix’s track. Image courtesy of Bonhams</figcaption></figure>



The <a href="https://robbreport.com/motors/cars/brawn-gp-f1-car-up-for-auction-1236195901/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">2009 Brawn BGP001</a> was the big talking point heading into this year’s edition of the Miami Auction, which is a collaboration between Bonhams and South Florida Motorsports. The F1 car is one of only three chassis that Brawn GP used to win the most unexpected constructors’ and drivers’ championships in the sport’s history—and the first of those to be offered for sale. The vehicle carried a US$4.5 million (approximately HK$35.07 million) to US$6.5 million (approximately HK$50.65 million) estimate heading into the auction, but didn’t sell after bidding failed to meet the reserve.



One of the other big cars on offer, a <a href="https://robbreport.com/motors/cars/porsche-911-reimagined-singer-bonhams-auction-1236523048/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">1990 Porsche 911 reimagined by Singer’s Classic Turbo services</a>, did successfully cross the auction block, though. The restomod was the first of Singer’s Classic Turbo restoration services to ever go up for auction. Collectors tend to favor vehicles that are as original as possible, but this heavily upgraded air-cooled 964-generation example is anything but, despite taking visual cues from the 1970s-era Porsche 930, the marque’s first turbocharged production 911. It sold for US$1.68 million (approximately HK$13.09 million), including the buyer’s premium, which was just shy of the presale, low-end estimate of US$1.75 million (approximately HK$13.64 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/2025/05/bonhamsmiami04.jpg-1024x576.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234797832" style="width:840px;height:auto" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/bonhamsmiami04.jpg-1024x576.webp 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/bonhamsmiami04.jpg-300x169.webp 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/bonhamsmiami04.jpg-768x432.webp 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/bonhamsmiami04.jpg.webp 1200w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">The auction’s 1990 Porsche 911 reimagined through Singer’s Classic Turbo services. Image courtesy of Bonhams</figcaption></figure>



“It’s amazing to see market changes,” Louis Frankel, the Bonhams consignment specialist who heads the Miami Auction, told&nbsp;Robb Report&nbsp;before the sale. “But I think it comes back to, you know, collectors are going back to things they want to drive, and they love that personalization.”



Another car that generated plenty of excitement on Saturday was a <a href="https://robbreport.com/motors/cars/gallery/10-best-cars-bonhams-second-miami-auction-1236700853/eb110/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">1994 Bugatti EB100 GT</a>. A number of attendees got out of their seats to take pictures and shoot video of the silver supercar as it was driven out. Bonhams could not reveal what the final price of the vehicle was, but a presale estimate of US$1.45 million (approximately HK$11.30 million) to US$1.65 million (approximately HK$12.86 million), suggests the number had plenty of zeros at the end of it.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large is-resized"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/bonhamsmiami02.jpg-1024x576.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234797833" style="width:840px;height:auto" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/bonhamsmiami02.jpg-1024x576.webp 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/bonhamsmiami02.jpg-300x169.webp 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/bonhamsmiami02.jpg-768x432.webp 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/bonhamsmiami02.jpg.webp 1200w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">A 1970 Plymouth Hemi Superbird is presented to the crowd. Image courtesy of Bonhams</figcaption></figure>



Other noteworthy sales included the only <a href="https://cars.bonhams.com/auction/30996/lot/40/2019-ford-gt-carbon-series-vin-2fagp9cw3kh200065/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">2019 Ford GT Carbon Series finished in Epic Orange</a>, which commanded US$828,000 (approximately HK$6.49 million), and a <a href="https://cars.bonhams.com/auction/30996/lot/17/1971-alfa-romeo-gta-r-by-alfaholics-chassis-no-ar1256749-engine-no-009/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">1971 Alfa Romeo GTA-R restomod from Alfaholics</a>, which, like the Singer, was the first sold at auction, going for US$392,000 (approximately HK$3.05 million). Uncharacteristic of such <a href="https://robbreport.com/tag/auctions/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">auctions</a>, the Bonhams event was not dominated by Ferraris, but a <a href="https://cars.bonhams.com/auction/30996/lot/53/2005-ferrari-575-superamerica-vin-zffgt61a750143911/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">2005 Superamerica</a> went for US$403,200 (approximately HK$3.14 million), a <a href="https://cars.bonhams.com/auction/30996/lot/37/2014-ferrari-458-italia-vin-zff67nfa9e0203030/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">2014 458 Italia</a> for US$257,600 (approximately HK$2.01 million), and a <a href="https://cars.bonhams.com/auction/30996/lot/16/1991-ferrari-testarossa-vin-zffsg17a1m0088976engine-no-26441/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">1991 Testarosa</a> for US$156,800 (approximately HK$1.22 million).



The cars weren’t the only items that enthusiasts could bid on, though. A selection of F1 automobilia was also offered, including <a href="https://cars.bonhams.com/auction/30996/lot/12/charles-leclercs-2020-scuderia-ferrari-f1-turkish-grand-prix-used-helmet-by-bell-signed/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Charles Leclerc’s 2020 Scuderia Ferrari F1 Turkish Grand Prix helmet</a>, which sold for US$57,600 (approximately HK$448,920), and <a href="https://cars.bonhams.com/auction/30996/lot/11/fernando-alonsos-2004-renault-f1-used-helmet-by-arai-signed/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Fernando Alonso’s 2004 Renault helmet</a>, which sold for US$38,400 (approximately HK$299,280). There was a <a href="https://cars.bonhams.com/auction/30996/lot/15/the-silverstone-british-grand-prix-2025-the-ultimate-motorsport-experience-with-sir-jackie-stewart-for-two-guests-donated-by-race-against-dementia/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">2025 Silverstone British Grand Prix experience</a> with Sir Jackie Stewart that went for US$80,000 (approximately HK$623,500). All proceeds from that sale will be donated to his charity, <a href="https://robbreport.com/motors/cars/f1-tech-advancements-changing-industries-1236353795/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Race Against Dementia</a>.

Bonhams’ Miami Auction Rakes in HK$98.17 Million, Thanks to a Singer Restomod, a Bugatti, and a Handful of Ferraris

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



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



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



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



Silhouette CX Snake



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



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



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



Avenger B01 Chronograph 44 Cobra



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



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



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



Lange 1 Moon Phase



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



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



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



Portofino Automatic Moon Phase



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



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



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



Spirit of Big Bang Year of the Snake



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



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



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



Tonda PF Xiali Chinese Calendar in Rose Gold



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



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



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



Classique 7145 Lunar New Year 2025



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



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



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



Conquest Heritage Year of the Snake



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



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



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



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



Reverso Tribute Enamel “Snake”



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



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



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



Chinese New Year Automatic



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



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



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



Espiègleries Tresors d’Afrique



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



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



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



The Legend of the Chinese Zodiac—Year of the Snake



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

2025 new watches

A. Lange & Söhne

Breguet

Breitling

Chaumet

Chinese New Year

exclusive watches

Franck Muller

Harry Winston

Hublot

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

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



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



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



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



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

Gold Rolex

Gold Watches

Rolex

Watches

Rolex’s Gold Watches Just Got More Expensive

<a href="https://robbreport.com/tag/louis-vuitton/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Louis Vuitton</a> is paying homage to its Parisian roots with a new, très chic timepiece.



The second model in the Escales Autour du Monde pocket&nbsp;<a href="https://robbreport.com/tag/watch/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">watch</a>&nbsp;collection, which LV revealed on Tuesday, has been adorned with an assortment of landmarks and icons tied to the French fashion house.



Fittingly christened the Escale au Pont-Neuf, the métiers d’art pocket watch features a tableau of the French capital for a dial. Beneath the dome of sapphire crystal lies the historic Pont-Neuf bridge, the Louis Vuitton headquarters, and the Samaritaine department store. The idyllic scene also depicts a barge carrying Louis Vuitton’s famous trunks along the Seine. The barge actually moves from right to left, while the trunks slowly open to reveal golden LV Monogram flowers.



That isn’t the only trick the Escale au Pont-Neuf has in store. Powered by the in-house LFT AU14.03 calibre—the most complex mechanical movement ever created by Louis Vuitton’s esteemed La Fabrique du Temps watch manufacture—the watch has some seven animations and 13 moving elements. A gold compass at 12 o’clock spins clockwise, the sparrow at 1 o’clock flutters, and the LV flag at the centre waves about, for example. 



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large is-resized"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="819" height="1024" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/LV_PONT_NEUF_2.jpg-819x1024.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234798936" style="width:840px;height:auto" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/LV_PONT_NEUF_2.jpg-819x1024.webp 819w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/LV_PONT_NEUF_2.jpg-240x300.webp 240w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/LV_PONT_NEUF_2.jpg-768x960.webp 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/LV_PONT_NEUF_2.jpg.webp 1200w" sizes="(max-width: 819px) 100vw, 819px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">The mesmerising moving dial. Image courtesy of Louis Vuitton</figcaption></figure>



All the elements were carved in thin layers of gold using the bas-relief engraving technique, meaning they appear slightly raised from the background. Each one is finished with intricate hand-engraved details that add further depth and dimension. To top it off, the dial showcases three types of champlevé enamel in 30 different hues. The enamelling work alone took 300 hours, or two months, to complete, according to the house.



To further accentuate the colourful and interactive face, the white-gold bezel has been set with 60 baguette-cut precious and coloured stones. Sapphires and tsavorites play against topazes and diamonds, creating a feast for the eyes. The 50 mm case, crown, and chain also draw the eye with gleaming 18-carat white gold.



The Escale au Pont-Neuf doesn’t just look good, it sounds good, too. The 561-component manual movement, which took another 500 hours to finish, incorporates a minute repeater that chimes the hours, quarters, and minutes. Another distinguishing touch is that the two hands have been placed on the caseback rather than the face, so as not to detract from the theatrical show.



The Escale au Pont-Neuf, which took two and a half years and 1,000 hours of work to come to fruition, comes with a doctor’s-style bag inspired by a 1906 archive design and a bespoke trunk. Price upon request, naturally.



Louis Vuitton recently launched the Escales Autour du Monde collection as part of a broader strategic plan to&nbsp;<a href="https://robbreport.com/style/watch-collector/louis-vuitton-escale-1235650279/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">elevate its watch category</a>. The house presented the first model, the Escale en Amazonie, during Watch Week in Miami earlier this year. First, the Amazon, now France; one can only imagine what destination LV will tackle next.

Louis Vuitton

Paris

Pocket Watch

Louis Vuitton’s New Pocket Watch Is a Striking Ode to Paris

<a href="https://robbreport.com/tag/chopard/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Chopard</a>&nbsp;has once again nabbed pole position at the&nbsp;<a href="https://robbreport.com/motors/cars/mille-miglia-car-race-dirty-truth-1234752021/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Mille Miglia</a>.



The Swiss watchmaker has returned as world sponsor and official timekeeper of the famous Italian endurance rally for another year, releasing two new timepieces to mark the occasion.



The partnership between&nbsp;<a href="https://robbreport.com/style/watch-collector/chopard-30th-anniversary-timepiece-tribute-to-the-mille-miglia-2834719/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Chopard and the Mille Miglia</a>&nbsp;stretches back 38 years. Chopard co-president and racing enthusiast&nbsp;<a href="https://robbreport.com/style/watch-collector/the-answers-karl-friedrich-scheufele-1234662510/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Karl-Friedrich Scheufele&nbsp;</a>first entered the rally in 1988, taking to the track in his family’s cherished 1955 Mercedes-Benz 300 SL Gullwing with six-time 24 Hours of Le Mans winner Jacky Ickx by his side. (He kick-started Chopard’s sponsorship the same year.) Scheufele and his esteemed co-driver Ickx will once again jump into the metallic strawberry Merc and&nbsp;<a href="https://robbreport.com/tag/race/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">race</a>&nbsp;against more than 400 other classic cars in the multi-day motorsport event this June.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/Chopard_MilleMiglia2025.jpg-1024x576.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234799010" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/Chopard_MilleMiglia2025.jpg-1024x576.webp 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/Chopard_MilleMiglia2025.jpg-300x169.webp 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/Chopard_MilleMiglia2025.jpg-768x432.webp 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/Chopard_MilleMiglia2025.jpg.webp 1200w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Six-time 24 Hours of Le Mans winner Jacky Ickx and Chopard Co-President Karl-Friedrich Scheufele.&nbsp; Image courtesy of Chopard</figcaption></figure>



To celebrate the upcoming race, Chopard will unveil the 2025&nbsp;<a href="https://robbreport.com/tag/mille-miglia/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Mille Miglia</a> editions at the start/finish point in Brescia. Drivers will follow a&nbsp;<a href="https://1000miglia.it/en/events/1000-miglia/1000-miglia-2025/#:~:text=On%20the%20fourth%20day%2C%20the,two%20days%20earlier%2C%20towards%20Rome." target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">figure-eight route</a>&nbsp;inspired by legendary pre-war races, heading through cities such as Verona, Ferrara, San Marino, Livorno, and Rome, before finishing back in Brescia.



Christened the Mille Miglia Classic Chronograph Tribute to Sir Stirling Moss, the first model celebrates its namesake British racing driver and his memorable victory at the Mille Miglia. Moss and co-driver Denis Jenkinson took the chequered flag in 1955, with a record time of 10 hours, 7 minutes, and 48 seconds. The duo averaged an astonishing speed of 97.96 mph in the 1,000-mile race, setting a record that still stands to this day.&nbsp;



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1200" height="676" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/Chopard_MilleMiglia2025_2.jpg.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234799012" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/Chopard_MilleMiglia2025_2.jpg.webp 1200w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/Chopard_MilleMiglia2025_2.jpg-300x169.webp 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/Chopard_MilleMiglia2025_2.jpg-1024x577.webp 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/Chopard_MilleMiglia2025_2.jpg-768x433.webp 768w" sizes="(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">The Chopard Mille Miglia Classic Chronograph Tribute to Sir Stirling Moss. Image courtesy of Chopard</figcaption></figure>



Crafted in Chopard’s ultra-resistant Lucent Steel, the 40.5 mm timepiece is equipped with a mechanical self-winding chronograph movement that offers a 54-hour power reserve and is as reliable as Moss was on the track. The silvered, opaline dial also mirrors the matte silver hue of his winning Mercedes-Benz 300 SLR. The limited edition will be capped at just 70 examples in a nod to the 70th anniversary of the Brit’s win.



“As a long-time participant in the Mille Miglia, I felt it was only fitting to honour such a legendary drive with an equally exceptional timepiece,” Scheufele said in a statement.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="577" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/Chopard_MilleMiglia2025_3.jpg-1024x577.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234799013" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/Chopard_MilleMiglia2025_3.jpg-1024x577.webp 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/Chopard_MilleMiglia2025_3.jpg-300x169.webp 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/Chopard_MilleMiglia2025_3.jpg-768x433.webp 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/Chopard_MilleMiglia2025_3.jpg.webp 1200w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">The Chopard Mille Miglia GTS Power Control—2025 Race Edition. Image courtesy of Chopard</figcaption></figure>



The second timepiece, the Mille Miglia GTS Power Control—2025 Race Edition, highlights the evolution of Chopard’s Grand Turismo Sport range that was introduced a decade ago. The 43 mm timepiece again showcases Chopard’s luminous Lucent Steel alloy and a striking salmon-coloured dial with a satin finish that the watchmaker says is supposed to evoke “historical aluminium bodywork and painted metal dashboards.” Powered by a chronometer-certified 01-02-M, the watch also features a fuel gauge-inspired indicator between 8 and 10 o’clock that monitors the automatic movement’s 60-hour power reserve. Only 250 examples will be made.



Both limited editions are exclusively available in Chopard boutiques, with price available upon request.

Chopard

Mille Miglia

Chopard Just Unveiled Two New Watches in Honour of the Mille Miglia

As the saying goes, out with the old, in with the new. But why not keep both the old&nbsp;and&nbsp;the new around?



That’s what&nbsp;<a href="https://robbreport.com/tag/ulysse-nardin/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Ulysse Nardin</a>&nbsp;has done with its latest timepiece. The new&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ulysse-nardin.com/watches/freak/2305-270le-3ae-blue-1a" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Freak X Gold Enamel</a>, the latest addition to the watchmaker’s visually striking&nbsp;<a href="https://robbreport.com/style/watch-collector/ulysse-nardin-ceo-patrick-pruniaux-discusses-future-freak-2797911/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Freak</a> collection, combines both 17th-century and 21st-century watchmaking techniques to make a rather stunning piece.



As with the original Freak watch, this new creation doesn’t have a traditional dial—no hands, no dial, and no crown to be found here. Instead, you’re getting Ulysse Nardin’s flying carousel complication to display the time via the rotating movement; the hours are shown by a pointer on the disc, while the movement itself turns 360 degrees each hour to indicate the minutes. The movement appears to “fly” over the hour disc, since it’s held without an upper bridge. Made from 22-karat rose gold, the guilloché-flinque rotating disc is the first in the Freak X line, showing off a sunray pattern and coated in a deep-blue enamel. (As for the setting the time, that’s done via a system in the bezel that’s wound by a mechanism in the caseback.)



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large is-resized"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/ULYSSE-NARDIN-FREAK-X-GOLD-ENAMEL-dial.png-1024x576.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234798940" style="width:837px;height:auto" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/ULYSSE-NARDIN-FREAK-X-GOLD-ENAMEL-dial.png-1024x576.webp 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/ULYSSE-NARDIN-FREAK-X-GOLD-ENAMEL-dial.png-300x169.webp 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/ULYSSE-NARDIN-FREAK-X-GOLD-ENAMEL-dial.png-768x432.webp 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/ULYSSE-NARDIN-FREAK-X-GOLD-ENAMEL-dial.png.webp 1200w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">A closer look at the enamel disc.</figcaption></figure>



And that hour disc, as you might expect, is rather challenging to bring to life. That’s where the artisans at Donez Cadrans, Ulysse Nardin’s enamelling atelier, step in. The intricate technique of enamelling dates back 3,000 years, when it was used in ancient Egyptian and Chinese cultures as well as the Roman Empire. Now, the creatives at the atelier have mastered the art for today. Throughout the extensive process of crafting the Freak X Gold Enamel, each disc alone takes about eight hours to complete. The enamelling process also means that each of these rotating discs is a true one-off—so no one piece is the same.



The Freak X Gold Enamel, with a 43 mm case in blue PVD titanium, has a 72-hour power reserve and plenty of other rose-gold touches, as can be seen on the side parts of the case. Ulysse Nardin paired the <a href="https://robbreport.com/style/watch-collector/gallery/metiers-dart-watches-1235434101/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">métiers d’art</a> with a blue alligator strap. The model also has a water resistance of 164 feet (50 metres).



Of course, all of that work makes for a rather elusive creation: Only 120 examples of the highly exclusive timepiece are up for grabs. You can learn more about the Freak X Gold Enamel, retailing for US$48,500 (approximately HK$380,670 excluding VAT) on <a href="https://www.ulysse-nardin.com/en-us/watches/freak?category_uid=MTU%3D" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Ulysse Nardin’s website</a>.

Freak X

Ulysse nardin

Watch

Ulysse Nardin Just Launched a New Limited-Edition Freak Watch

“It wasn’t our intention to own a watch brand—ever,” says <a href="https://robbreport.com/tag/alex-rosenfield/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Alex Rosenfield</a>, the co-CEO of the newly relaunched Danish-Swiss watchmaking brand Urban Jürgensen, referring to himself and his father, Andrew, a silent co-owner. Neither has a business background in horology. Alex (pictured, right) has worked in fashion, marketing, and media and was decked in head-to-toe Thom Browne when Robb Report met him in Geneva in April. Andrew, meanwhile, is president of the financial-services juggernaut Guggenheim Partners. But together, with master <a href="https://robbreport.com/style/watch-collector/independent-watchmaking-1235367160/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">independent watchmaker </a>and co-CEO <a href="https://robbreport.com/style/watch-collector/a-collected-man-kari-voutilainen-1234669361/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Kari Voutilainen</a>, they are breathing new life into the enterprise founded in Copenhagen over two and a half centuries ago and now based in Bienne, Switzerland.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large is-resized"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/Andy-Alex-Rosenfield.jpg-1024x576.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234798920" style="width:838px;height:auto" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/Andy-Alex-Rosenfield.jpg-1024x576.webp 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/Andy-Alex-Rosenfield.jpg-300x169.webp 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/Andy-Alex-Rosenfield.jpg-768x432.webp 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/Andy-Alex-Rosenfield.jpg.webp 1200w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Andrew Rosenfield and Alex Rosenfield.</figcaption></figure>



Andrew is a longtime collector. “My father started collecting Urban Jürgensen in the late ’90s and has always loved it,” says Alex. “He thought of it as one of the great watch brands.” He also has other heavyweight independents like Rexhep Rexhepi and Philippe Dufour in his vault. When Andrew learned Urban Jürgensen was in financial trouble, he was determined to save it. The first person he approached as a partner was Voutilainen. The watchmaker began his career at the company, so returning to lead its workshop while he continues to operate his own revered namesake brand in Môtiers has been a seamless transition for all involved. “Kari is himself very entrepreneurial and creative, and I think he’s always looking to do new things,” says Alex. “We were really lucky, but it was a good fit.”



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large is-resized"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/UJ-1-PT-G-Reverse-1.jpg-1024x576.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234798921" style="width:838px;height:auto" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/UJ-1-PT-G-Reverse-1.jpg-1024x576.webp 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/UJ-1-PT-G-Reverse-1.jpg-300x169.webp 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/UJ-1-PT-G-Reverse-1.jpg-768x432.webp 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/UJ-1-PT-G-Reverse-1.jpg.webp 1200w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">The movement of the&nbsp;<a href="https://robbreport.com/tag/urban-jurgensen/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Urban Jürgensen</a>&nbsp;UJ1.</figcaption></figure>



Naturally, the watches reflect the master’s touch. There are his signature exaggerated Breguet-style hands, Roman-numeral hour markers, well-balanced dials, and immaculate finishing. Three models launch today: the limited-edition UJ1 (in platinum with a silver or grey dial and in gold with a silver dial, all limited to 25 each (CHF 368,000 or approximately HK$3.52 million); the time-only UJ2, powered by a double-balance-wheel natural escapement (CHF 105,000 or approximately HK$1 million); and the perpetual calendar UJ3, featuring an instantaneous moon phase created by Andreas Strehler (CHF 168,000 or approximately HK$1.6 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/2025/06/UJ-1-PT-S-Three-Quarter.jpg-1024x576.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234798922" style="width:840px;height:auto" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/UJ-1-PT-S-Three-Quarter.jpg-1024x576.webp 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/UJ-1-PT-S-Three-Quarter.jpg-300x169.webp 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/UJ-1-PT-S-Three-Quarter.jpg-768x432.webp 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/UJ-1-PT-S-Three-Quarter.jpg.webp 1200w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Urban Jürgensen UJ1. Image courtesy of Urban Jürgensen</figcaption></figure>



But the grail is the UJ1—a wristwatch take on a legendary oval pocket watch, with a flying tourbillon coupled with a remontoire and detent escapement, begun by the late Derek Pratt of Urban Jürgensen and finished by his protégé, Voutilainen. The one-of-a-kind pocket watch sold at Phillips last November for nearly US$4.5 million (approximately HK$35.32 million).



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="575" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/Untitled-1.jpg-1024x575.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234798923" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/Untitled-1.jpg-1024x575.webp 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/Untitled-1.jpg-300x169.webp 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/Untitled-1.jpg-768x431.webp 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/Untitled-1.jpg.webp 1200w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Urban Jürgensen campaign. Images courtesy of Casey Zhang</figcaption></figure>



What is entirely new is Alex’s vision for the branding. Drawing upon his fashion background, he brought on famed photographer Ellen von Unwerth for visuals, developed bespoke typography based on Urban Jürgensen’s own calligraphy, and even introduced Lug, a Great Dane mascot, who wears a timepiece around his neck. “We can take the watchmaking seriously,” Alex says. “But we don’t have to take ourselves too seriously.”

Danish-Swiss

Kari Voutilainen

Urban Jürgensen

Urban Jürgensen Relaunches With New 6-Figure Watches Designed by Kari Voutilainen

<a href="https://robbreport.com/tag/pershing/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Pershing</a>’s sporty fleet just got a new member.



The Italian shipyard, part of the Ferretti Group, launched its first GTX70 from the port of Fano last week. The third model in the brand’s Sport Utility&nbsp;<a href="https://robbreport.com/tag/yachts/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Yachts</a> range, the 72-footer offers up all the agility and space you’d expect from a Pershing—just in a slightly smaller package.



The GTX70 is the brainchild of Vallicelli Design, the Ferretti engineering department, and the group’s Product Strategy Committee, led by Piero Ferrari, Enzo Ferrari’s son—which makes sense, given the yacht’s supercar-like exterior. With a nearly 18-foot beam, the launch is decked out in Pershing’s signature grey, with sweeping lines that can be seen across the exterior.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large is-resized"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/pershinggtx70aerial.png-1024x576.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234796834" style="width:838px;height:auto" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/pershinggtx70aerial.png-1024x576.webp 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/pershinggtx70aerial.png-300x169.webp 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/pershinggtx70aerial.png-768x432.webp 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/pershinggtx70aerial.png.webp 1200w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Pershing’s sporty GTX70 can hit a top speed of 35 knots. Image courtesy of Pershing</figcaption></figure>



That exterior (and interior) space is more extensive than other models of a similar length, Pershing says, and that can be seen especially in the beach area aft. On this first GTX70, the yard placed a sunpad on the transom; the space’s stern swim platform, besides being the perfect spot to launch your Jet Ski, comes with dual linear lift tech, which gives you more space to unwind by aligning the platform with the beach area. In total, the area spans about 248 square feet when the side terraces are open.



As for the sportbridge, the 172-square-foot space is divided into three zones: a spot for sunbathing, a dining area, and the helm station. This first GTX70 also comes with an electric bimini top, which can give you some much-needed shade in the helm and the dining area if you’ve spent too much time in the sun.



The main deck, meanwhile, has a sprawling, open layout. Here, the owners can enjoy a fully shaded cockpit, with a sofa and a table. Heading inside, the exterior and interior space are connected by the galley, much like on the&nbsp;<a href="https://robbreport.com/motors/marine/pershing-new-gtx80-sport-yacht-1235486267/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">GTX80</a>. The L-shaped sofas inside are done up in a dark nubuck leather, while the muted tones of the stairwell close by add contrast to the area.



Accommodations onboard, also crafted to optimise space, include three cabins and three en suite bathrooms on the lower deck. In terms of grunt, the GTX70 has three 900 hp Volvo Penta D13 IPS12000, which helps bush the yacht to a top speed of 35 knots and a cruising speed of 30 knots.



As we mentioned, the GTX70 does share some similarities with the&nbsp;<a href="https://robbreport.com/motors/marine/pershing-gtx80-yacht-1236011533/">G</a><a href="https://robbreport.com/motors/marine/pershing-gtx80-yacht-1236011533/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">TX80</a>, which we checked out at the Cannes Yachting Festival last year. That weekend cruiser, a touch larger than Pershing’s newest launch, also has a spacious beach area and an open-concept main deck. After all, two sporty yachts are always better than one.

Ferretti Group

Pershing

Yacht

Pershing Just Launched Its New Sporty 72-Foot Yacht