Domaine des lambrays

Freund

Grand Cru

Lewis Chester

LVMH

Wine Column

Domaine des Lambrays: The Renaissance of a Grand Cru

As Hong Kong gears up for the eagerly anticipated Festival of Wine, running from 4 to 25 November 2025, <a href="https://robbreport.hk/brands/island-shangri-la/stories" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Island Shangri-La, Hong Kong</a> is poised to transform into a veritable paradise for wine enthusiasts and culinary aficionados alike. This year’s festival promises to be the most ambitious yet, showcasing a curated selection of exquisite wines from the world’s most prestigious vineyards, paired with gastronomic creations by chef Uwe Opocensky—<a href="https://robbreport.hk/posts/uwe-opocensky-frederic-chabbert-petrus-collaboration" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">no stranger to Robb Report Hong Kong</a>—of the acclaimed Restaurant Petrus.



The festival’s allure is undeniable, offering an unparalleled opportunity to indulge in eight extraordinary evenings dedicated to the celebration of wine and food. With a collection spanning the elite estates of Burgundy to the cult classics of Napa Valley, each event weaves a unique narrative, inviting guests to immerse themselves in the storied legacies of legendary producers and rare vintages. The experience is elevated further by distinguished winemakers and sommeliers, who will share their insights and tales behind each bottle, transforming every sip into a moment of connection and discovery.



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One of the Festival of Wine’s highlights is the Domaine Leroy Wine Dinner, scheduled for 6 November at the intimate Restaurant Petrus. Limited to just eight guests, this exclusive gathering will feature some of Burgundy’s rarest and most coveted vintages, including the legendary Clos de la Roche 2006 and Romanée-St-Vivant 1998. Opocensky’s artistry shines through in a specially crafted menu, where seasonal French autumn ingredients harmonise with the exceptional wines. Picture a delicate lobster and scallop dish paired with the illustrious Corton-Charlemagne Grand Cru 2001, or rich beef cheeks elegantly complemented by Gevrey-Chambertin 1er Cru Combettes 2013.&nbsp;



For those with a penchant for exploration, the Prieuré Roch Wine Dinner on 18 November offers a bold culinary journey through the artistry of minimal-intervention wines. Opocensky harnesses earthy, umami flavours to create dishes that perfectly complement the natural, unfiltered wines from Domaine Prieuré Roch. Guests can expect to savour a rich cep mushroom tart alongside the Nuits-St-Georges 1er Cru VV Magnum 2022, culminating in the evening’s pièce de résistance: tarte tatin with confit Rhug venison paired with the magnificent Chambertin-Clos de Bèze Grand Cru 2022. With Yannick Champ, the winemaker and co-director, personally presenting these exceptional vintages, the evening will be unforgettable.



As the festival unfolds, the spotlight shifts to Napa Valley’s most illustrious producer during the Harlan Estate Wine Dinner on 25 November. This event promises a grand showcase of wines that have garnered perfect scores from Robert Parker, reflecting their uncompromising quality. Opocensky’s family-style service will feature a delightful array of dishes, from pork head terrine to whole grilled turbot, all designed to complement the structured and complex profiles of Harlan Estate wines.



Not to be overlooked, the Pommery Champagne Dinner on 4 November sets the stage for a celebration of sparkling elegance. Since 1858, Pommery has been at the forefront of Champagne innovation, and this evening will honour both its classic heritage and contemporary vision. Opocensky’s culinary interpretations will feature a selection of seafood dishes meticulously paired with six exceptional Pommery cuvées, including the celebrated Y by Yoshiki Brut and the rich Louise Brut Rosé 2004.



Each dining experience during the festival is designed to showcase the harmony between exceptional wines and culinary artistry, with chefs drawing inspiration from the unique terroirs of the wine regions. The Château Duhart-Milon Wine Dinner on 13 November, for instance, celebrates the heritage of this distinguished Pauillac estate with creative pairings that surprise and delight. From the rare Sauvignon Blanc Le Blanc de Duhart-Milon 2023 served with Japanese oysters to unexpected charcoal-grilled Wagyu lasagne skewers complementing the elegant 2007 vintage, this evening offers a masterclass in flavour synergy.



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As the festival culminates, Ming Pavilion will host the Pegasus Bay Wine Dinner on 20 November, showcasing expressive wines from New Zealand’s Waipara Valley. The evening will feature masterful Fujian cuisine pairings, highlighting the versatility and complexity of Pinot Noir and Riesling, ensuring that each dish resonates with the wine’s character.



With limited seats available, guests are encouraged to secure their reservations promptly to avoid disappointment. For those seeking an extraordinary oenophile experience, the Festival of Wine at Island Shangri-La, Hong Kong promises to be a highlight—nay,&nbsp;the&nbsp;event of the year.



For more information and reservations, visit <a href="https://www.shangri-la.com/en/landing/isl-festival-of-wine-2025/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">shangri-la.com.</a>

Event

Festival of Wine

Hk Dining

Hong Kong event

Island Shangri-La

Wine

Island Shangri-La, Hong Kong’s Sixth Festival of Wine is Primed for Oenophiles

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

america

Golden Vines

Oscars of Fine Wine

Wine event

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

If terroir is destiny, then the Trimbachs are its nobility—charmingly unpretentious despite a lineage that more than rivals the House of Windsor. <a href="https://www.trimbach.fr/en" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Maison Trimbach</a> has been guided by 12 generations dating back to 1626, when the family settled in Alsace from Switzerland. Every generation has contributed—be it in the vineyard, at the press, or greeting visitors—yet all remain indelibly bound to the vines and the perpetual quest for balance, a theme resonating throughout my visit. Today, Jean Trimbach and his elder brother Pierre, bolstered by their children—the thirteenth generation—uphold the family legacy.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading"><a></a>Ribeauvillé: Where Granite, Limestone &amp; Legend Collide</h2>



Step into Ribeauvillé, a fairytale medieval village, and discover a wine estate that is more than a business; it is an evolving family epic, built on Riesling, castles, enchanting terroir, and spirited drinking songs. Here, within ancient ramparts and beneath the gaze of three eleventh-century castles, Trimbach crafts wine from distinguished Grands Crus such as Geisberg, Osterberg, and Kirchberg, not least their iconic Clos Ste Hune from the Rosacker Grand Cru.



Clos Ste Hune—an exclusive monopole perched on limestone and fossilised seashells—is regarded as the holy grail for lovers of dry Riesling. Since its first vintage in 1919, only 650 cases are produced annually, each offered at €400 (approximately HK$3,665) per bottle. The vineyard’s “whisperer,” Laurent, has tended these venerable vines for over twenty-six years, famously greeting each plant as an old friend, a touch reflecting the estate’s deep respect for tradition. Across the valley, granite dominates Grands Crus Schlossberg and Brand, bestowing their wines with an intense, brooding structure.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="683" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/LC_24_075120-Photo-c-Leif-Carlsson.jpg-1024x683.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234801418" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/LC_24_075120-Photo-c-Leif-Carlsson.jpg-1024x683.webp 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/LC_24_075120-Photo-c-Leif-Carlsson.jpg-300x200.webp 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/LC_24_075120-Photo-c-Leif-Carlsson.jpg-768x512.webp 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/LC_24_075120-Photo-c-Leif-Carlsson.jpg-1536x1024.webp 1536w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/LC_24_075120-Photo-c-Leif-Carlsson.jpg-2048x1366.webp 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Maison Trimbach has been guided by 12 generations, dating back to 1626. Photo by Leif Carlsson</figcaption></figure>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading"><a></a>The Trimbachs: Family, Feast, and Folklore</h2>



To meet the Trimbachs is akin to crashing a lively, centuries-old history lesson, all underpinned by remarkable wines. Jean (b. 1960) is the charismatic ambassador, spending upward of eight years of his life travelling—primarily in the United States, the estate’s foremost market—to introduce aficionados to Trimbach’s treasures. His brother Pierre (b. 1956), the elder sibling, oversees production with a zen serenity born of experience, and once even survived a Himalayan ski adventure.



Anne, Pierre’s daughter and the indefatigable “export queen,” recently weathered a hurricane in Atlanta. Jean’s children, Pauline (sales: France, Belgium, Luxembourg) and Julien (dedicated vigneron and enthusiastic Arsenal supporter), complete the six-member family team. Holidays see up to forty Trimbachs gathered beneath one roof, surely testing the limits of the family’s cellar. Bernard (b. 1932), the patriarch emeritus, still appears at gatherings—opening Eisenhower-era bottles with a deft hand and offering acerbic wisdom.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading"><a></a>The Origin Story: Not Exactly Hollywood</h2>



In the early seventeenth century, the Trimbach family journeyed from Switzerland to Alsace and, demonstrating characteristic stubbornness, never left. Frédéric Emile (1839–1919) earned international acclaim with a Gold Medal from King Leopold II at the Brussels International Wine Fair in 1898, a prize still displayed proudly in the estate’s tasting room. The family now owns sixty-seven hectares—thirty percent Grands Crus—supplemented by eighty more through partnerships, many in the microclimate-blessed Hunawhir-Ribeauvillé-Bergheim corridor. Winds from the Vosges mountains, cool nocturnal temperatures, and meticulous hand-harvesting lend energy and character to each glass.



When I asked Jean about recent changes at the estate, he replied: “Ribeauvillé is not Hollywood. Very few changes can be expected; we are not launching a new wine or changing the packaging every two years. Consistency and quality are our hallmarks.”



Even so, after several glasses, Jean revealed a recent acquisition: a vine parcel from a retiring neighbour—a rare change but one entirely in keeping with their values.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="683" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/20241107_134321_1731063712944.jpg-1024x683.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234801419" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/20241107_134321_1731063712944.jpg-1024x683.webp 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/20241107_134321_1731063712944.jpg-300x200.webp 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/20241107_134321_1731063712944.jpg-768x512.webp 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/20241107_134321_1731063712944.jpg-1536x1024.webp 1536w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/20241107_134321_1731063712944.jpg.webp 1984w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading"><a></a>The Wines: The Many Layers of a Trimbach Table</h2>



For the Trimbachs, tradition and authenticity stand far above transient trends or flashy labels. Riesling may cover 22 percent of Alsace’s vineyards, but it forms 55 percent of Trimbach’s production.



<a></a>The Trimbach Hierarchy (Ageing Potential)



<figure class="wp-block-table"><table><tbody><tr><td>Level</td><td>Ageability</td></tr><tr><td>Classic</td><td>5–10 years</td></tr><tr><td>Reserve</td><td>10+ years</td></tr><tr><td>Vieilles Vignes</td><td>10+ years</td></tr><tr><td>Grand Cru</td><td>20+ years</td></tr><tr><td>Frédéric Emile</td><td>20+ years</td></tr><tr><td>Clos Ste Hune</td><td>20++ years</td></tr></tbody></table></figure>



<a></a>Each vineyard plot adds its own character: limestone for vibrancy, granite for backbone, marl for roundness.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading"><a></a>Legendary Tastings &amp; Family Feasts</h2>



These wines, of course, are best appreciated in the company of those who make them. It took four years—and my wife’s patience stretched to tensile limits—for me to visit Jean. It was well worth the wait.



Chef Marc Haeberlin of Auberge de L’Ill’s legendary foie gras beckoned for lunch and, later, at Jean’s house, Nicole brought her secret-recipe cheese pie to the table, while Pierre raided the cellars. By the third bottle, the table clamoured for more. The lineup? Rayas 2006, Le Pin 2011, VCC 2005, Dujac Bonnes Mares 2005, Clos Ste Hune 1975, Comtes de Champagne 2012, and many more. Akos Forczek, one of Trimbach’s importers, and Istvan Szepsy Jr, a friend and famed maker of Tokaj, dropped their English for Hungarian as the wine flowed, though by midnight everyone was singing the same language. The Trimbach song blasted at the top of our collective lungs:



“My bottle lies over the ocean, My bottle lies over the sea, Trimbach, Trimbach, oh bring back my bottle to me…”



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="684" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/A7S07103.jpg-1024x684.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234801420" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/A7S07103.jpg-1024x684.webp 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/A7S07103.jpg-300x200.webp 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/A7S07103.jpg-768x513.webp 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/A7S07103.jpg-1536x1026.webp 1536w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/A7S07103.jpg.webp 1882w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading"><a></a>Clos Ste Hune: A Love Letter to Riesling</h2>



For those less familiar: Clos Ste Hune is revered as one of the world’s greatest dry Rieslings, a tiny monopole vineyard of 1.67 hectares, separately demarcated within the Rosacker Grand Cru, with a cult following. I have been a dedicated collector of these wines for more than fifteen years, but I have never tasted so many in one day before.



2021: A “difficult” year—mildew, oidium, the usual Biblical drama—yet the result is magic. Light lemon gold in the glass, mineral on the nose, with honeysuckle and fresh mint. The mid-palate delivers juicier fruit than expected, but then the mineral backbone bites back. Rounded. Flamboyant. 13 percent ABV, 3.1 pH (the average for most vintages), and a finish that hums for minutes. Pierre says wait seven years… but just try.



2020: A golden, richer cousin to 2021. Warmer nose—peach, apricot, salt breeze. The palate is broad and muscular, almost glycerol, with a drier finish and more brooding power. 14 percent ABV. My money? 2021 for finesse; 2020 for sheer presence.



2019: A memorable vintage for the centenary bottling, marked by “100 Anniversaire” on the label. White florals and crushed herbs leap from the glass; the palate is tense—crushed stone, honey, underripe fruit, glorious backbone. 13.92 percent ABV, 3.1 pH, almost architectural in its complexity. Very few large formats were bottled; if you find one, hold it close.



2018: Darker hue, and richness to match: sage, smoky citrus, savoury spices, and a nudge toward Sauvignon Blanc in aroma. 14.5 percent ABV. Juicy, slightly drying, the persistence of dinner guests who just won’t leave (as might have been the case on this special evening). Comforting warmth, but always fresh.



2014: The “Suzuki fly” vintage—well remembered for the havoc it caused in the vineyards—but still lively. Pale gold, sweet spice and tropical fruit, tight and angular, 12.8 percent ABV. White pepper, sea spray. It’s all there, just a little shy and waiting to unfurl.



1998:&nbsp;Our lunchtime wine at Auberge de L’Ill, served in ultra-rare magnum format. Amber golden hue, with a touch of noble rot that has created a decadent wine. Apricot, white flowers, vanilla, honeysuckle, a delicate steeliness. Toasted almond, dried fruit, hay on the tongue—startling in how youthful and charged it remains. Only 24 magnums produced, now more legend than wine.



1975:&nbsp;Dark gold like old copper coins. Brioche, burnt apricot, toffee, caramel, roasted honey, all balanced by salinity and oyster-shell minerality. Bernard’s favourite wine according to Jean—fresh, zippy as the day bottled, with “infinite” finish, a glowing memory produced in a 63 hl foudre. No petrol notes*, no oxidation. Breathe it in, and you feel the room hush.



*Note: Pierre explains that true Riesling rarely exhibits petrol notes; these arise from extraction during pressing—modern gentle pressing now prevents this.



Asked to name the greatest Clos Ste Hune vintages, Jean and Pierre cited: 1959, 1966, 1967, 1971, 1975, 1976, 1990, 2015, and 2019. As Pierre commented, “Riesling always delivers in great vintages.”



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="682" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/Domaine-4.jpg-1024x682.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234801421" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/Domaine-4.jpg-1024x682.webp 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/Domaine-4.jpg-300x200.webp 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/Domaine-4.jpg-768x512.webp 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/Domaine-4.jpg-1536x1023.webp 1536w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/Domaine-4.jpg.webp 1882w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading"><a></a>Beyond Clos Ste Hune: Other Trimbach Greats</h2>



<a></a>It was tasting the estate’s 1959 Tokay d’Alsace (today’s Pinot Gris) at his father’s dinner table which made Jean decide to join the family business. So, he has a particular affinity for the quality of wines that can be produced from Alsatian grapes other than Riesling.



Trimbach Réserve Personnelle Pinot Gris 2019



Lush white blossom and ripe peach on the nose, plush without excess. Perceived sweetness whispers, never shouts. Great length, 14.5 percent ABV, a balancing act of richness and precision that leaves a lasting impression.



Trimbach Gewurztraminer Seigneurs de Ribeaupierre 2017



Lychee, roses, a hint of spice. Light gold, mouth-watering acidity, and a grape-y freshness that pairs so well with Peking duck, according to Jean. Light yet energetic, never oily. 14.5 percent ABV but still wonderfully balanced.



The Trimbach Philosophy: Balance—With a Side of Blah Blah Blah



Twelve generations, yet chaos rarely overtakes order.



“The first thing that matters is balance, the second is balance, the third is balance—and the rest is blah blah blah”, Pierre opines on what makes a great fine wine. In Ribeauvillé, greatness is a marathon, not a sprint, and it’s measured in decades, not fads or hashtags.



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<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="689" height="1024" data-id="1234801422" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/PACKSHOT-CSH-100A-1-1378x2048.jpg-689x1024.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234801422" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/PACKSHOT-CSH-100A-1-1378x2048.jpg-689x1024.webp 689w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/PACKSHOT-CSH-100A-1-1378x2048.jpg-202x300.webp 202w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/PACKSHOT-CSH-100A-1-1378x2048.jpg-768x1141.webp 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/PACKSHOT-CSH-100A-1-1378x2048.jpg-1034x1536.webp 1034w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/PACKSHOT-CSH-100A-1-1378x2048.jpg.webp 1378w" sizes="(max-width: 689px) 100vw, 689px" /></figure>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="425" height="645" data-id="1234801423" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/photo_carafe_clos_sainte_hune.jpg.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234801423" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/photo_carafe_clos_sainte_hune.jpg.webp 425w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/photo_carafe_clos_sainte_hune.jpg-198x300.webp 198w" sizes="(max-width: 425px) 100vw, 425px" /></figure>
</figure>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading"><a></a>The Final Act — Jean Trimbach’s Desert Island Choices</h2>



When asked which items he would take to a desert island, Jean replied:



Book: The Pillars of the Earth by Ken Follett.



Watch:&nbsp;“Because time, like Riesling, must be managed.”



Music:&nbsp;Pink Floyd for those existential moments.



His wife, Nicole:&nbsp;“For everything that matters.”



Death Row wine: Egon Müller Trockenbeerenauslese (TBA) 1959—“existential dread meets bliss.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Jean’s three greatest bottles:</h2>



Egon Müller Trockenbeerenauslese (TBA) 1959: “An out-of-body experience.”



Château Lafite 1865: “An incredible relic from time itself.”



Clos Ste Hune 1966: “Layered, nervy acidity and enigmatic.”



<a></a>He also honours Clos Ste Hune 1990, Clos Ste Hune 1975, and Frédéric Émile 1971 as emblematic of the estate’s achievements.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading"><a></a>In Conclusion</h2>



<a></a>Should you ever find yourself in Ribeauvillé’s vineyards or Trimbach’s tasting room, raise a glass, join the song, and remember: you are part of a narrative spanning four centuries—woven with laughter, stubbornness, and the perpetual quest for the perfect Riesling.



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>.

Maison Trimbach

Riesling

Maison Trimbach: Grand Cru, Grand Family, Grand Life

For true wine lovers, a bottle of La Tâche can be just as essential in the packing list as a toothbrush—or, dare I say it, even underwear. The perennial dilemma of how to transport prized bottles safely from A to B is all too familiar. Enter&nbsp;<a href="https://vingardevalise.com/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">VinGardeValise</a>&nbsp;(VGV): the preferred travel companion for oenophiles since 2014, seamlessly blending practicality, eco-conscious design, and style to ease the frustrations of modern travel.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">From Frustration to Global Phenomenon</h2>



Although now closely associated with the Forster family, VinGardeValise was originally invented by Barry Wax’s persistence to solve the age-old problem of shattered bottles and dashed dreams.&nbsp;



Today, the business thrives under the leadership of Bill Forster’s daughter, Brooke Kochman, whose impressive background—including experience in the luxury industry, fashion, and even the memorable moment of ringing the Nasdaq bell—brings both polish and unwavering determination to the company. 



Kochman’s approach—persistent, collaborative, and open to new partnerships—has helped turn the company into a small but dynamic operation. She works alongside owner Bill Forster, CFO Harry Steck, and Ron Scharman, who serves as the senior account executive and e-commerce manager. Despite its modest size, this team has established VGV as the benchmark for wine luggage.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="683" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/VinGardeValise-Suitcases-Lifestyle-2018-09-14-18-2048x1366.jpg-1024x683.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234800507" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/VinGardeValise-Suitcases-Lifestyle-2018-09-14-18-2048x1366.jpg-1024x683.webp 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/VinGardeValise-Suitcases-Lifestyle-2018-09-14-18-2048x1366.jpg-300x200.webp 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/VinGardeValise-Suitcases-Lifestyle-2018-09-14-18-2048x1366.jpg-768x512.webp 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/VinGardeValise-Suitcases-Lifestyle-2018-09-14-18-2048x1366.jpg-1536x1025.webp 1536w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/VinGardeValise-Suitcases-Lifestyle-2018-09-14-18-2048x1366.jpg.webp 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Tried and Tested: Features That Deliver</h2>



Does VinGardeValise live up to its promises? As someone who owns three VGV cases—each road-tested through airports, car boots, and countless Eurostar journeys—I can personally attest to their durability. No matter the bumps from planes, trains, or automobiles, my bottles have always arrived safe and sound.



Features that stand out:



<ul>
<li>Removable Inserts: Specialised foam cradles bottles more tenderly than most airlines handle their passengers, accommodating everything from Bordeaux and Champagne to larger, unusual formats.</li>



<li>Flexible Configurations: Carry bottles, glassware, or even the occasional craft beer—adaptability is built in.</li>



<li>Eco-Conscious Materials: The outer shells are made from 100 percent recycled materials, and inserts are recyclable too—keeping your conscience as clear as your glass.</li>



<li>Lifetime Warranty: Perfect for dedicated travellers intending to drink—and travel—well into the future.</li>



<li>Customisation: Bespoke plates and personal branding options ensure there is never any doubt about ownership.</li>



<li>Cost-Effective: Save on shipping fees or the agony of missed deliveries. With VGV, your treasured bottles arrive with you—and your carbon footprint remains lighter than with couriered alternatives.</li>
</ul>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="997" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/VinGardeValise-Inserts-Photoshoot-2018-09-25-06.jpg-1024x997.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234800508" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/VinGardeValise-Inserts-Photoshoot-2018-09-25-06.jpg-1024x997.webp 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/VinGardeValise-Inserts-Photoshoot-2018-09-25-06.jpg-300x292.webp 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/VinGardeValise-Inserts-Photoshoot-2018-09-25-06.jpg-768x748.webp 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/VinGardeValise-Inserts-Photoshoot-2018-09-25-06.jpg-1536x1495.webp 1536w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/VinGardeValise-Inserts-Photoshoot-2018-09-25-06.jpg.webp 1701w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Endorsements: From Industry Experts to Real Enthusiasts</h2>



With over 100 partners and collaborations with more than 500 wineries, as well as leading retailers such as Total Wine and Williams Sonoma, VGV’s professional reputation is formidable. But the ultimate vote of confidence comes from my own WhatsApp fine wine groups, particularly the formidable Mad Quaffers, whose members are as exacting as they are candid. When a group like that collectively crowns a favourite, you know you’re in safe hands.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">The 2025 Golden Vines® Miami, and Royal Prestige</h2>



As the founder of The Golden Vines®, I spent years trying to bring VGV into our event’s inner circle. This wish is finally fulfilled at the 2025 edition in Miami: every ticket holder will receive a bespoke Golden Vines® 12-bottle case, complete with a bespoke name plate.



To top it off, Grant Macdonald—goldsmith to the King and co-creator of our iconic Golden Vines® Trophy—has crafted an exclusive Golden Vines® luggage label. Attach one to your VGV and then watch as both baggage handlers and fellow travellers regard your case with uncharacteristic reverence.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="749" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/VinGardeValise-Inserts-Photoshoot-2020-08-17-11.jpg-1024x749.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234800509" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/VinGardeValise-Inserts-Photoshoot-2020-08-17-11.jpg-1024x749.webp 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/VinGardeValise-Inserts-Photoshoot-2020-08-17-11.jpg-300x219.webp 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/VinGardeValise-Inserts-Photoshoot-2020-08-17-11.jpg-768x561.webp 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/VinGardeValise-Inserts-Photoshoot-2020-08-17-11.jpg.webp 1134w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">A Range for Every Taste</h2>



From the compact Petite—for the cautious traveller or the admirably abstemious—to the stately Grande and the striking VinAluminum, there’s a VGV for everyone. The lineup now includes:



<ul>
<li>Wine and spirits suitcases in various sizes</li>



<li>Versatile wine and glass carriers</li>



<li>Personal backpacks</li>



<li>Customisation accessories</li>
</ul>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Small Team, Global Reach</h2>



Despite its nimble size, VGV maintains an extensive global presence, enabling me to purchase my luggage direct to my door in London. The brand’s distribution network spans airport shops, duty-free outlets, tasting rooms, and luxury retailers. Excitingly, VGV will also be launching on Costco.com and Nordstrom.com this year, expanding accessibility for wine lovers everywhere.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="838" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/VinGardeValise-VinXplorer-Backpack-Lifestyle-2022-10-26-02-2048x1676.jpg-1024x838.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234800510" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/VinGardeValise-VinXplorer-Backpack-Lifestyle-2022-10-26-02-2048x1676.jpg-1024x838.webp 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/VinGardeValise-VinXplorer-Backpack-Lifestyle-2022-10-26-02-2048x1676.jpg-300x246.webp 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/VinGardeValise-VinXplorer-Backpack-Lifestyle-2022-10-26-02-2048x1676.jpg-768x629.webp 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/VinGardeValise-VinXplorer-Backpack-Lifestyle-2022-10-26-02-2048x1676.jpg-1536x1257.webp 1536w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/VinGardeValise-VinXplorer-Backpack-Lifestyle-2022-10-26-02-2048x1676.jpg.webp 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">In Conclusion: The Only Way to Travel with Wine</h2>



VinGardeValise is far more than just checked luggage. For those who greet their wine cases at baggage claim with more anticipation than their suitcase, it can mean the difference between a perfect holiday and a travel disaster. Why risk bubble wrap and crossed fingers? With VinGardeValise, you’re not just carrying bottles—you’re carrying peace of mind, and perhaps a little envy from your fellow travellers.



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: <a href="https://liquidicons.com/work/golden-vines-awards" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">liquidicons.com/work/golden-vines-awards</a>.<a href="https://robbreportmonaco.com/food-drink/cigars/the-best-in-cigars-from-limited-editions-and-anniversary-specials-to-novel-blends-and-aged-tobacco/"></a><a href="https://robbreportmonaco.com/food-drink/cigars/the-best-in-cigars-from-limited-editions-and-anniversary-specials-to-novel-blends-and-aged-tobacco/"></a><a href="https://robbreportmonaco.com/tech/the-best-in-gear-from-fitness-equipment-to-water-sports-toys/"></a><a href="https://robbreportmonaco.com/tech/the-best-in-gear-from-fitness-equipment-to-water-sports-toys/"></a><a href="https://robbreportmonaco.com/home/home-design/the-best-in-design-from-home-accessories-to-luxury-appliances/"></a><a href="https://robbreportmonaco.com/home/home-design/the-best-in-design-from-home-accessories-to-luxury-appliances/"></a>

Gear

VinGardeValise

Wine luggage

Discover VinGardeValise, the Pinnacle of Wine Luggage For the Modern Connoisseur

Entire websites and innumerable columns are dedicated to the grape concerns of wine countries and their blushing residents who worry about their lot with the burning question: What happens to leftover wine? What does one do with an uncorked, vital varietal before it turns to vinegar? How does one preserve an opened bottle still brimming with promises?



Knocking on the reserves of Penfolds has once again proven to be enlightening, as the clever corks from Down Under are bringing back to Hong Kong a much-needed service not seen in the city since 2017: the <a href="https://penfoldsrecorkingclinic.eventbrite.com/?aff=RR" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Penfolds Re-Corking Clinic</a>.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="576" height="1024" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/edm_9x16_RS-576x1024.jpeg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234800358" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/edm_9x16_RS-576x1024.jpeg 576w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/edm_9x16_RS-169x300.jpeg 169w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/edm_9x16_RS-768x1365.jpeg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/edm_9x16_RS-864x1536.jpeg 864w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/edm_9x16_RS.jpeg 900w" sizes="(max-width: 576px) 100vw, 576px" /></figure>



Raising the experience of refined wine ownership to unmatched heights, this unconventional “clinic” is set to return to Hong Kong this August, offering discerning collectors a rare opportunity to preserve the integrity and legacy of their prized Penfolds bottles. Under the expert guidance of chief winemaker Peter Gago and winemaker Shavaughn Wells, the Penfolds Re-Corking Clinic epitomises the gold standard in wine stewardship, reinforcing the company’s position as a leader in fine wine and showcasing a long-term commitment to its wine connoisseurs.



The Penfolds Re-Corking Clinic is more than just a service—it is a masterclass in preserving the essence of fine wine and demonstrates a continued investment in a trusted circle of clients. Each appointment, held only in select cities, allows collectors to bring their bottles to be professionally inspected, assessed, and re-corked, ensuring that each bottle remains a testament to its rich provenance. It is a careful process that guarantees the longevity of the wine and enhances its market value, a crucial consideration for collectors who see their acquisitions as both passion and investment.&nbsp;Penfolds’ attention to detail is a luxury that few winemakers provide. Notably, Château Lafite Rothschild, a name synonymous with fine wine, last offered a similar service more than a decade ago, underscoring the rarity of this commitment.



For those with long stems of memory, back in 2017, one would remember that Hong Kong had welcomed the Penfolds Re-Corking Clinic, hosted by chief winemaker Peter Gago, as approximately 400 exceptional wines were meticulously examined, including highly coveted limited releases such as the Bin 90A Coonawarra Cabernet Barossa Valley Shiraz, Bin 42 Kalimna Cabernet Sauvignon, and Bin 333 Shiraz. Notably, the collection featured inaugural vintages of Magill Estate Shiraz and RWT Barossa Valley Shiraz, dating back to 1983 and 1997, alongside well-cellared selections of Penfolds Grange and St. Henri Shiraz, spanning several decades. The rarity and diversity of the wines helped ripen the reputation of Hong Kong as one of Asia’s most sophisticated wine markets. This year’s event should push that legend further as the world’s most sophisticated ones with collectors who are second to none.



To partake in the Penfolds Re-Corking Clinic, your selected wine must be a distinguished red wine from Penfolds, boasting a minimum age of 15 years from its vintage date, with a clearly legible label that indicates this vintage. Each submission will undergo a quality assessment by a Penfolds winemaker to ensure it meets the requisite style criteria. However, certain wines will be deemed ineligible at the sole discretion of Penfolds. Wines lacking their original label, featuring illegible markings, previously assessed at a prior Re-Corking Clinic, or missing an original capsule automatically fall into this category. Wines may also be considered ineligible if they show signs of significant ullage, water damage, tampering, or fail to meet the quality standards set forth by the winemakers. Such is the price to pay for quality and the high standards the brand has established since its early years.



<figure class="wp-block-gallery has-nested-images columns-default is-cropped wp-block-gallery-3 is-layout-flex wp-block-gallery-is-layout-flex">
<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="683" height="1024" data-id="1234799640" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/PEN-Recorking-Clinic-Melb-2022-Grange-1970-and-1979-683x1024.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234799640" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/PEN-Recorking-Clinic-Melb-2022-Grange-1970-and-1979-683x1024.jpg 683w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/PEN-Recorking-Clinic-Melb-2022-Grange-1970-and-1979-200x300.jpg 200w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/PEN-Recorking-Clinic-Melb-2022-Grange-1970-and-1979-768x1152.jpg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/PEN-Recorking-Clinic-Melb-2022-Grange-1970-and-1979-1024x1536.jpg 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/PEN-Recorking-Clinic-Melb-2022-Grange-1970-and-1979.jpg 1067w" sizes="(max-width: 683px) 100vw, 683px" /></figure>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="683" height="1024" data-id="1234799637" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/PEN-Recorking-Clinic-SYD-2022-Crumbling-Cork-683x1024.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234799637" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/PEN-Recorking-Clinic-SYD-2022-Crumbling-Cork-683x1024.jpg 683w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/PEN-Recorking-Clinic-SYD-2022-Crumbling-Cork-200x300.jpg 200w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/PEN-Recorking-Clinic-SYD-2022-Crumbling-Cork-768x1152.jpg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/PEN-Recorking-Clinic-SYD-2022-Crumbling-Cork-1024x1536.jpg 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/PEN-Recorking-Clinic-SYD-2022-Crumbling-Cork.jpg 1067w" sizes="(max-width: 683px) 100vw, 683px" /></figure>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="683" height="1024" data-id="1234799638" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/PEN-Recorking-Clinic-SYD-2022-BIN-707-1983-Labelling-683x1024.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234799638" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/PEN-Recorking-Clinic-SYD-2022-BIN-707-1983-Labelling-683x1024.jpg 683w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/PEN-Recorking-Clinic-SYD-2022-BIN-707-1983-Labelling-200x300.jpg 200w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/PEN-Recorking-Clinic-SYD-2022-BIN-707-1983-Labelling-768x1152.jpg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/PEN-Recorking-Clinic-SYD-2022-BIN-707-1983-Labelling-1024x1536.jpg 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/PEN-Recorking-Clinic-SYD-2022-BIN-707-1983-Labelling.jpg 1067w" sizes="(max-width: 683px) 100vw, 683px" /></figure>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="683" height="1024" data-id="1234799636" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/PEN-Recorking-Clinic-Melb-2022-Grange-1979-certified-label-683x1024.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234799636" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/PEN-Recorking-Clinic-Melb-2022-Grange-1979-certified-label-683x1024.jpg 683w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/PEN-Recorking-Clinic-Melb-2022-Grange-1979-certified-label-200x300.jpg 200w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/PEN-Recorking-Clinic-Melb-2022-Grange-1979-certified-label-768x1152.jpg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/PEN-Recorking-Clinic-Melb-2022-Grange-1979-certified-label-1024x1536.jpg 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/PEN-Recorking-Clinic-Melb-2022-Grange-1979-certified-label.jpg 1067w" sizes="(max-width: 683px) 100vw, 683px" /></figure>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="683" height="1024" data-id="1234799639" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/PEN-Recorking-Clinic-Melb-2022-Grange-1979-683x1024.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234799639" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/PEN-Recorking-Clinic-Melb-2022-Grange-1979-683x1024.jpg 683w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/PEN-Recorking-Clinic-Melb-2022-Grange-1979-200x300.jpg 200w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/PEN-Recorking-Clinic-Melb-2022-Grange-1979-768x1152.jpg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/PEN-Recorking-Clinic-Melb-2022-Grange-1979-1024x1536.jpg 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/PEN-Recorking-Clinic-Melb-2022-Grange-1979.jpg 1067w" sizes="(max-width: 683px) 100vw, 683px" /></figure>
</figure>



Penfolds’ Re-Corking Clinic respects wine ownership with the same thoughtful consideration as similar aftercare services found in other luxury sectors, such as Patek Philippe’s Restoration Workshop or vintage automobile certifications. Just as these brands preserve the stories and craftsmanship behind their creations, the Penfolds Re-Corking Clinic safeguards the narrative of each bottle, strengthening the emotional value tied to these wines—often passed down through generations—making the service not just about wine, but about legacy.&nbsp;&nbsp;



For long-time collectors in Hong Kong and across Asia, where fine wine is revered, the return of the Re-Corking Clinic by Penfolds is a heartfelt gesture that reinforces the brand’s commitment to quality and stewardship. This intimate, experience-led service underscores the vital bond between collectors and the winery, where each consultation helps preserve a bottle’s unique story and offers collectors a chance to engage deeply with their wines in an elegant setting at The Upper House.



Each bottle that passes through the Re-Corking Clinic’s doors is a portal to the past, a connection to heritage and craftsmanship that transcends mere consumption, and a window to the future. As Peter Gago aptly states, “Every Clinic is unique; each bottle tells a different story, and our role is to help those stories endure.”&nbsp;New collectors are invited into a community that values the preservation of fine wine, transforming ownership into responsible custodianship, where aged bottles are not just stored but celebrated. In fact, the Re-Corking Clinic extends beyond mere preservation, providing an immersive experience that includes curated wine flights and personalised keepsakes. Guests will benefit from expert advice on cellaring, investment potential, and custodianship, making the event a must-attend for wine enthusiasts.



For those who secure an appointment, it promises to be an experience that echoes through generations, ensuring that the stories of Penfolds wines continue to unfold with every sip. Re-corking clinic sessions are now open for registration, for more details and information, visit the Penfolds Re-Corking Clinic’s page <a href="https://penfoldsrecorkingclinic.eventbrite.com/?aff=RR" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">here</a> to register. Starting 4 August 2025, a limited number of public viewing slots will be available on a first-come, first-served basis.



<a href="https://penfoldsrecorkingclinic.eventbrite.com/?aff=RR" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Penfolds Re-Corking Clinic</a>



22 August 2025–23 August 2025



The Upper House, 88 Queensway, Admiralty, Hong Kong

Penfolds

Penfolds Re-Corking Clinic

Preserving Legacies: Penfolds Re-Corking Clinic Returns to Hong Kong

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 new age of&nbsp;<a href="https://robbreport.com/tag/space-tourism/">space tourism</a>&nbsp;hasn’t arrived quite yet.



Richard Branson’s <a href="https://www.virgingalactic.com/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Virgin Galactic</a> is delaying the launch of its <a href="https://robbreport.com/motors/aviation/virgin-galactic-delta-spacecraft-first-flight-planned-1236263298/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">much-anticipated Delta spacecraft</a>, a vessel for both tourists and research opportunities to reach suborbital flight. The craft was set to debut in summer 2026 but is now slated for the fall of that year, <a href="https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2025-08-06/virgin-galactic-spce-to-delay-first-spaceplane-flight-to-fall-2026?srnd=homepage-americas" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Bloomberg</a> reported.



The British American company has paused all commercial operations since June 2024 in anticipation of the Delta commercial flight’s launch next year, after which tourism trips will resume. The updated timeline follows quarterly financial results that fell short of analysts’ expectations.



<a href="https://robbreport.com/tag/virgin-galactic/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Virgin Galactic</a> reported about US$410,000 (approximately HK$3,192,690.50) in revenue for the second quarter, slightly below the US$420,000 (around HK$3,270,561) forecasted by analysts polled by <a href="https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2025-08-06/virgin-galactic-spce-to-delay-first-spaceplane-flight-to-fall-2026?srnd=homepage-americas" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Bloomberg</a>. The company also reduced the size of its in-house engineering team and overall workforce by 7 percent as it fights to bring to market the upgraded Delta spaceplane.



While Virgin Galactic stock has been down roughly 35 percent for the year, shares rose 2.1 percent in US post market trading this week—a relief for investors who expected a greater loss per share of US$2.34 (HK$18.22) compared to the actual US$1.47 (HK$11.45) dip.



Prior to the halt in operations, Virgin Galactic had been selling seats on the Delta spacecraft for around US$600,000 (HK$4,672,230), and said it plans to raise prices when ticket sales resume at the start of 2026, according to <a href="https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2025-08-06/virgin-galactic-spce-to-delay-first-spaceplane-flight-to-fall-2026?srnd=homepage-americas" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Bloomberg</a>.



The company’s current focus is on developing the upgraded spaceplane, which is being optimised for reusability and faster turnaround time between flights—perhaps an effort to compete with rival commercial space tech companies like Jeff Bezos’s <a href="https://www.blueorigin.com/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Blue Origin LLC</a> or Elon Musk’s <a href="https://www.spacex.com/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">SpaceX</a>. In all cases, flights are sold as short trips to space for sightseeing or research.



Virgin Galactic told Bloomberg that it burned through roughly US$55 million (approximately HK$428.29 million) in cash during the second quarter, down from around US$79 million (HK$615.18 million) during the same period last year. It had cash, cash equivalents, and marketable securities of US$508 million (around HK$3.96 billion) as of the end of June.



Hopefully, Virgin Galactic can unveil a groundbreaking Delta spaceplane next fall in the wake of ongoing delays. While it’s unclear what the availability and pricing of the commercial flights will be, one thing is certain: We can’t hop on just yet.

aviation concept

concept

space

Spaceplane

Virgin

virgin galactic

Virgin Galactic Is Delaying the Launch of Its Delta Spaceplane

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

TCS World Travel

Travel

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



All images courtesy of VistaJet.

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

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



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



<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="Midnight Piloted Flight with CTOL | Full Flight Video" width="500" height="281" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/gmz5yjmeZQ8?feature=oembed" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen></iframe>
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With Archer’s chief test pilot, Jeff Greenwood, at the helm, Midnight cruised at speeds up to 125 mph and reached a maximum altitude of over 1,500 feet. The craft also completed a conventional take-off and landing (CTOL) rather than executing both vertically. Midnight already showcased a vertical takeoff and landing (VTOL) in the latter half of 2023.



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

Air Taxi

Archer Aviation

Electric Air Taxi

eVTOL

Midnight eVTOL

test flights

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="683" height="1024" data-id="1234800423" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Sketch-of-Artisan-Cask-bottle_RS-683x1024.jpeg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234800423" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Sketch-of-Artisan-Cask-bottle_RS-683x1024.jpeg 683w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Sketch-of-Artisan-Cask-bottle_RS-200x300.jpeg 200w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Sketch-of-Artisan-Cask-bottle_RS-768x1152.jpeg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Sketch-of-Artisan-Cask-bottle_RS-1024x1536.jpeg 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Sketch-of-Artisan-Cask-bottle_RS.jpeg 1067w" sizes="(max-width: 683px) 100vw, 683px" /></figure>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="683" height="1024" data-id="1234800424" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Artisan-Casks-whisky-image_RS-683x1024.jpeg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234800424" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Artisan-Casks-whisky-image_RS-683x1024.jpeg 683w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Artisan-Casks-whisky-image_RS-200x300.jpeg 200w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Artisan-Casks-whisky-image_RS-768x1152.jpeg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Artisan-Casks-whisky-image_RS-1024x1536.jpeg 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Artisan-Casks-whisky-image_RS.jpeg 1067w" sizes="(max-width: 683px) 100vw, 683px" /></figure>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="683" height="1024" data-id="1234800425" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Artisan-Casks-whisky-image-during-Asia-launch_RS-683x1024.jpeg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234800425" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Artisan-Casks-whisky-image-during-Asia-launch_RS-683x1024.jpeg 683w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Artisan-Casks-whisky-image-during-Asia-launch_RS-200x300.jpeg 200w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Artisan-Casks-whisky-image-during-Asia-launch_RS-768x1152.jpeg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Artisan-Casks-whisky-image-during-Asia-launch_RS-1024x1536.jpeg 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Artisan-Casks-whisky-image-during-Asia-launch_RS.jpeg 1067w" sizes="(max-width: 683px) 100vw, 683px" /></figure>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="682" height="1024" data-id="1234800426" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Artisan-Casks-launch-in-Monaco-whiskies_RS-682x1024.jpeg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234800426" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Artisan-Casks-launch-in-Monaco-whiskies_RS-682x1024.jpeg 682w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Artisan-Casks-launch-in-Monaco-whiskies_RS-200x300.jpeg 200w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Artisan-Casks-launch-in-Monaco-whiskies_RS-768x1153.jpeg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Artisan-Casks-launch-in-Monaco-whiskies_RS-1023x1536.jpeg 1023w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Artisan-Casks-launch-in-Monaco-whiskies_RS.jpeg 1066w" sizes="(max-width: 682px) 100vw, 682px" /></figure>
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As mentioned, the programme was unveiled to a select audience at the Presidential Villa at Raffles on Sentosa in Singapore, marking the Asia launch after a spectacular debut aboard the 125-year-old classic sailing yacht,&nbsp;The Black Swan, in Monaco. For good measure, we had the exclusive first look under the aegis of Club Bâtard. Further events are slated for New York and Dubai, indicating global interest in this remarkable initiative.



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



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



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



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



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



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



All images courtesy of Artisan Casks.

Artisan Casks

Whisky

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

In a groundbreaking event for wine connoisseurs, Bonhams Hong Kong is set to unveil the first-ever Middle Eastern private wine collection at a live auction on 24 May 2025. Entitled&nbsp;The Oasis Collection, the headline auction showcases over 13,000 meticulously curated bottles, reflecting the refined palate and commitment to provenance of its unique collector. Accompanying this notable collection is&nbsp;The Vault of Legacies, another private collection that highlights the exceptional depth of an Asian collector’s acquisition.



The&nbsp;Oasis Collection&nbsp;represents a significant milestone in the global wine market, shedding light on the sophistication of the Middle East’s oenophile culture for the first time in the city. Each bottle has been stored under optimal conditions, thanks to the expertise of MMI, the exclusive fine wine importer in the region. Careful preservation ensures that the wines retain their integrity and quality, setting a new standard for private collections entering the scene.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large is-resized"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="682" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Spirits-of-Distinction-Whisky-Cognac-Rarities_Springbank-Millennium-Collection_RS-1-1024x682.jpeg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234798184" style="width:840px;height:auto" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Spirits-of-Distinction-Whisky-Cognac-Rarities_Springbank-Millennium-Collection_RS-1-1024x682.jpeg 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Spirits-of-Distinction-Whisky-Cognac-Rarities_Springbank-Millennium-Collection_RS-1-300x200.jpeg 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Spirits-of-Distinction-Whisky-Cognac-Rarities_Springbank-Millennium-Collection_RS-1-768x512.jpeg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Spirits-of-Distinction-Whisky-Cognac-Rarities_Springbank-Millennium-Collection_RS-1-1536x1023.jpeg 1536w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Spirits-of-Distinction-Whisky-Cognac-Rarities_Springbank-Millennium-Collection_RS-1-2048x1364.jpeg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Spirits of Distinction Whisky &amp; Cognac Rarities</figcaption></figure>



Among the auction highlights are 10 vintages of the illustrious Château Pétrus, including a 2000 vintage estimated between HK$55,000 and HK$80,000, alongside a 1996 Magnum valued at HK$28,000 to HK$42,000. Additionally, there are 37 lots featuring the prestigious Domaine de la Romanée-Conti, with the Echézeaux 2002 Magnum estimated at HK$38,000 to HK$55,000, and the Richebourg 2015, with an estimate of HK$110,000 to HK$160,000.



The Vault of Legacies is a testament to decades of dedication by its Asian collector, who has sourced only the finest wines in pristine condition. It includes 43 lots from Domaine de la Romanée-Conti and features other sought-after wines, such as d’Auvenay Mazis-Chambertin 1996 and Leroy Chambertin 2001, complemented by an impressive selection of Italian wines, notably Gianfranco Soldera and Masseto, adding further depth to the offerings.



In addition to the live auction, Bonhams will hold an online sale,&nbsp;The Oasis Collection &amp; Grand Cru Collective, from now till 27 May, providing enthusiasts with additional opportunities to acquire rare wines. Its online auction will feature a diverse selection, ensuring that collectors can engage with the collection from anywhere in the world.



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<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="819" height="1024" data-id="1234798054" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/The-Oasis-Collection-The-Vault-of-Legacies_DRC-Assortment-Cases_RS-819x1024.jpeg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234798054" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/The-Oasis-Collection-The-Vault-of-Legacies_DRC-Assortment-Cases_RS-819x1024.jpeg 819w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/The-Oasis-Collection-The-Vault-of-Legacies_DRC-Assortment-Cases_RS-240x300.jpeg 240w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/The-Oasis-Collection-The-Vault-of-Legacies_DRC-Assortment-Cases_RS-768x960.jpeg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/The-Oasis-Collection-The-Vault-of-Legacies_DRC-Assortment-Cases_RS-1229x1536.jpeg 1229w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/The-Oasis-Collection-The-Vault-of-Legacies_DRC-Assortment-Cases_RS.jpeg 1280w" sizes="(max-width: 819px) 100vw, 819px" /></figure>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="819" height="1024" data-id="1234798053" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Spirits-of-Distinction-Whisky-Cognac-Rarities_Brora-40-year-old_RS-819x1024.jpeg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234798053" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Spirits-of-Distinction-Whisky-Cognac-Rarities_Brora-40-year-old_RS-819x1024.jpeg 819w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Spirits-of-Distinction-Whisky-Cognac-Rarities_Brora-40-year-old_RS-240x300.jpeg 240w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Spirits-of-Distinction-Whisky-Cognac-Rarities_Brora-40-year-old_RS-768x960.jpeg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Spirits-of-Distinction-Whisky-Cognac-Rarities_Brora-40-year-old_RS-1229x1536.jpeg 1229w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Spirits-of-Distinction-Whisky-Cognac-Rarities_Brora-40-year-old_RS.jpeg 1280w" sizes="(max-width: 819px) 100vw, 819px" /></figure>
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For spirits aficionados, Bonhams will also present the&nbsp;Spirits of Distinction: Whisky &amp; Cognac Rarities auction, running from 16 to 27 May. It will showcase rare Japanese whiskies, including the coveted Hanyu Ichiro Malt “Four Aces.” Estimated between HK$360,000 and HK$550,000, this limited release reflects the distillery’s artisanal craftsmanship and the rarity of its casks, ceasing production in 2000.&nbsp;



Collectors can further explore a selection of high-age-statement Scotch whiskies, highlighted by Brora’s 40-Year-Old, with an estimate of HK$110,000 to HK$160,000. Cognac enthusiasts will not be disappointed, as the also auction features the Rémy Martin Louis XIII Black Pearl, a rare blend crafted from one of the oldest casks in the house’s reserve. It is expected to fetch a sum between HK$90,000 and HK$140,000.



As Bonhams continues to elevate its offerings in such high spirits, the debut of The&nbsp;Oasis Collection&nbsp;marks a key moment for the auction house and the fine wine market in Asia. With an impressive array of wines and spirits, the auction promises to be a highly anticipated event for the city’s collectors, curators, and epicureans, celebrating the growing sophistication and global reach of wine culture in the region.



All images courtesy of Bonhams Hong Kong.

Auction

Bonhams

Bonhams Hong Kong

Hong Kong auction

Whiskey

Whiskey auction

wine auction

A Rare Middle Eastern Private Wine Collection Featuring Pétrus and Domaine de la Romanée-Conti Vintages Is Heading to Auction at Bonhams Hong Kong

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



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<iframe loading="lazy" title="Gordon &amp; MacPhail | The World&#039;s Oldest Single Malt Scotch Whisky" width="500" height="281" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/6KtkTxwqELk?feature=oembed" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen></iframe>
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Held at Island Shangri-La, Hong Kong’s Michelin-starred Restaurant Petrus, the special evening promises an exceptional encounter with the&nbsp;<a href="https://robbreport.hk/posts/oldest-scotch-whisky-gordon-macphail-glenlivet" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Gordon &amp; MacPhail 85 Years Old</a>—a masterpiece hailed as the oldest single malt Scotch whisky, a liquid testament to patience, heritage, and unparalleled craftsmanship. Gordon &amp; MacPhail stands as a titan in the realm of Scotch whisky, a brand whose legacy spans 130 years and commands reverence among connoisseurs worldwide. Founded in 1895 in the Speyside heartland of Elgin, Scotland, this independent bottler and distiller has elevated the art of whisky to sublime heights. What sets Gordon &amp; MacPhail apart is its unwavering commitment to maturation—casks are procured from distilleries across Scotland and diligently nurtured, allowing time to weave its magic far beyond the haste of commercial production. Its portfolio boasts some of the rarest expressions ever released, including vintages that whisper tales of bygone eras.



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



All images courtesy of Gordon &amp; MacPhail.

Gordon & Macphail

whiskey dinner

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



All images courtesy of Sotheby’s Hong Kong.

HK exhibit

Hong Kong

Sotheby's

Sotheby's Asia

Sotheby's Hong Kong

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



All images courtesy of Expedition Whisky.

Dave Dooley

expedition

Expedition Whisky

Garth Dooley

Macallan

Expedition Whisky Presents a Bold New Chapter in Whisky Exploration 

best of experiences

Best of Hospitality

Best of the Best 2026

Best of Travel

Travel Luxury

Robb Report Hong Kong’s Best of the Best 2026 Travel, Experiences & Hospitality Edition: Recognising Our Special Guests

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



All images courtesy of Aman.

Aman

Aman Singapore

Branded Residences

hotel

Kerry Hill Architects

Singapore

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

It’s true what they say—time flies when you’re having fun.



In the blink of an eye, the <a href="https://robbreport.hk/posts/upper-house-unified-rebrand-international-expansion" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">recently rebranded Upper House Hong Kong</a> has reached its 16th anniversary. Naturally, a milestone like this does not go uncelebrated, and what better way to mark the occasion than with a one-night-only feast presented by one of Asia’s finest?



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<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="1024" data-id="1234802895" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/Chef-Jordy_Toyo-Eatery-1024x1024.jpeg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234802895" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/Chef-Jordy_Toyo-Eatery-1024x1024.jpeg 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/Chef-Jordy_Toyo-Eatery-300x300.jpeg 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/Chef-Jordy_Toyo-Eatery-150x150.jpeg 150w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/Chef-Jordy_Toyo-Eatery-768x768.jpeg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/Chef-Jordy_Toyo-Eatery-1536x1536.jpeg 1536w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/Chef-Jordy_Toyo-Eatery-2048x2048.jpeg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Jordy Navarra.</figcaption></figure>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="1024" data-id="1234802896" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/Chef-Ricardo_Salisterra-1024x1024.jpeg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234802896" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/Chef-Ricardo_Salisterra-1024x1024.jpeg 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/Chef-Ricardo_Salisterra-300x300.jpeg 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/Chef-Ricardo_Salisterra-150x150.jpeg 150w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/Chef-Ricardo_Salisterra-768x768.jpeg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/Chef-Ricardo_Salisterra-1536x1536.jpeg 1536w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/Chef-Ricardo_Salisterra-2048x2048.jpeg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Ricardo Chaneton.</figcaption></figure>
</figure>



On 7 November 2025, Salisterra at Upper House Hong Kong will welcome chef Jordy Navarra of Manila’s one-Michelin-star Toyo Eatery, who will join hands with Ricardo Chaneton, Salisterra’s culinary advisor, to create culinary magic that bridges the Mediterranean and the Philippines. Both gastronomic traditions are big on shared dining experiences, and for the chefs, this collaboration represents a renewed meeting of minds—Navarra and Chaneton partnered up for a stint at Mono two years ago, which we can assume went well enough to bring about a sequel.



Toyo Eatery, its name derived from the Tagalog word for soy sauce, is dedicated to the appreciation and continuation of Filipino culinary heritage. It also stands as a champion of sustainability, with a strong focus on “closing loops,” sourcing produce locally, and supporting small artisan communities in the Philippines. One of the signature experiences at this acclaimed restaurant in Makati is the kamayan tasting menu, a direct tribute to the Filipino communal dining tradition of enjoying a shared meal off a banana leaf with your hands.



After the meal, the party continues in the Green Room, where the award-winning Ethan Liu of CMYK in Changsha, ranked No. 16 on Asia’s 50 Best Bars 2025, will be putting in a guest shift. For a limited time only, to commemorate the unified brand relaunch of Upper House, the Green Room will also be serving signature cocktails from the Chengdu and Shanghai properties.



For booking enquiries, click <a href="https://www.sevenrooms.com/explore/salisterra/reservations/create/search/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">here</a>.



<a href="https://www.upperhouse.com/en/hongkong/restaurants-and-bars/salisterra/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Salisterra</a>



Level 49, Upper House Hong Kong, Pacific Place, 88 Queensway, Admiralty, Hong Kong



Tel: (+852) 3968 1106



All images courtesy of Upper House Hong Kong.

Manila’s Toyo Eatery Comes to Hong Kong For 1 Night Only This Month

As Hong Kong gears up for the eagerly anticipated Festival of Wine, running from 4 to 25 November 2025, <a href="https://robbreport.hk/brands/island-shangri-la/stories" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Island Shangri-La, Hong Kong</a> is poised to transform into a veritable paradise for wine enthusiasts and culinary aficionados alike. This year’s festival promises to be the most ambitious yet, showcasing a curated selection of exquisite wines from the world’s most prestigious vineyards, paired with gastronomic creations by chef Uwe Opocensky—<a href="https://robbreport.hk/posts/uwe-opocensky-frederic-chabbert-petrus-collaboration" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">no stranger to Robb Report Hong Kong</a>—of the acclaimed Restaurant Petrus.



The festival’s allure is undeniable, offering an unparalleled opportunity to indulge in eight extraordinary evenings dedicated to the celebration of wine and food. With a collection spanning the elite estates of Burgundy to the cult classics of Napa Valley, each event weaves a unique narrative, inviting guests to immerse themselves in the storied legacies of legendary producers and rare vintages. The experience is elevated further by distinguished winemakers and sommeliers, who will share their insights and tales behind each bottle, transforming every sip into a moment of connection and discovery.



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<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="683" height="1024" data-id="1234802681" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/RP-Nov-25-Harlan-Estate-Wine-Dinner_RS-683x1024.jpeg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234802681" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/RP-Nov-25-Harlan-Estate-Wine-Dinner_RS-683x1024.jpeg 683w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/RP-Nov-25-Harlan-Estate-Wine-Dinner_RS-200x300.jpeg 200w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/RP-Nov-25-Harlan-Estate-Wine-Dinner_RS-768x1152.jpeg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/RP-Nov-25-Harlan-Estate-Wine-Dinner_RS-1024x1536.jpeg 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/RP-Nov-25-Harlan-Estate-Wine-Dinner_RS.jpeg 1067w" sizes="(max-width: 683px) 100vw, 683px" /></figure>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="683" height="1024" data-id="1234802680" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/MP-Nov-20-Pegasus-Bay-Wine-Dinner_RS-683x1024.jpeg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234802680" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/MP-Nov-20-Pegasus-Bay-Wine-Dinner_RS-683x1024.jpeg 683w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/MP-Nov-20-Pegasus-Bay-Wine-Dinner_RS-200x300.jpeg 200w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/MP-Nov-20-Pegasus-Bay-Wine-Dinner_RS-768x1152.jpeg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/MP-Nov-20-Pegasus-Bay-Wine-Dinner_RS-1024x1536.jpeg 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/MP-Nov-20-Pegasus-Bay-Wine-Dinner_RS.jpeg 1067w" sizes="(max-width: 683px) 100vw, 683px" /></figure>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="683" height="1024" data-id="1234802682" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/RP-Nov-4-Pommery-Champagne-Dinner_RS-683x1024.jpeg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234802682" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/RP-Nov-4-Pommery-Champagne-Dinner_RS-683x1024.jpeg 683w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/RP-Nov-4-Pommery-Champagne-Dinner_RS-200x300.jpeg 200w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/RP-Nov-4-Pommery-Champagne-Dinner_RS-768x1152.jpeg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/RP-Nov-4-Pommery-Champagne-Dinner_RS-1024x1536.jpeg 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/RP-Nov-4-Pommery-Champagne-Dinner_RS.jpeg 1067w" sizes="(max-width: 683px) 100vw, 683px" /></figure>
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One of the Festival of Wine’s highlights is the Domaine Leroy Wine Dinner, scheduled for 6 November at the intimate Restaurant Petrus. Limited to just eight guests, this exclusive gathering will feature some of Burgundy’s rarest and most coveted vintages, including the legendary Clos de la Roche 2006 and Romanée-St-Vivant 1998. Opocensky’s artistry shines through in a specially crafted menu, where seasonal French autumn ingredients harmonise with the exceptional wines. Picture a delicate lobster and scallop dish paired with the illustrious Corton-Charlemagne Grand Cru 2001, or rich beef cheeks elegantly complemented by Gevrey-Chambertin 1er Cru Combettes 2013.&nbsp;



For those with a penchant for exploration, the Prieuré Roch Wine Dinner on 18 November offers a bold culinary journey through the artistry of minimal-intervention wines. Opocensky harnesses earthy, umami flavours to create dishes that perfectly complement the natural, unfiltered wines from Domaine Prieuré Roch. Guests can expect to savour a rich cep mushroom tart alongside the Nuits-St-Georges 1er Cru VV Magnum 2022, culminating in the evening’s pièce de résistance: tarte tatin with confit Rhug venison paired with the magnificent Chambertin-Clos de Bèze Grand Cru 2022. With Yannick Champ, the winemaker and co-director, personally presenting these exceptional vintages, the evening will be unforgettable.



As the festival unfolds, the spotlight shifts to Napa Valley’s most illustrious producer during the Harlan Estate Wine Dinner on 25 November. This event promises a grand showcase of wines that have garnered perfect scores from Robert Parker, reflecting their uncompromising quality. Opocensky’s family-style service will feature a delightful array of dishes, from pork head terrine to whole grilled turbot, all designed to complement the structured and complex profiles of Harlan Estate wines.



Not to be overlooked, the Pommery Champagne Dinner on 4 November sets the stage for a celebration of sparkling elegance. Since 1858, Pommery has been at the forefront of Champagne innovation, and this evening will honour both its classic heritage and contemporary vision. Opocensky’s culinary interpretations will feature a selection of seafood dishes meticulously paired with six exceptional Pommery cuvées, including the celebrated Y by Yoshiki Brut and the rich Louise Brut Rosé 2004.



Each dining experience during the festival is designed to showcase the harmony between exceptional wines and culinary artistry, with chefs drawing inspiration from the unique terroirs of the wine regions. The Château Duhart-Milon Wine Dinner on 13 November, for instance, celebrates the heritage of this distinguished Pauillac estate with creative pairings that surprise and delight. From the rare Sauvignon Blanc Le Blanc de Duhart-Milon 2023 served with Japanese oysters to unexpected charcoal-grilled Wagyu lasagne skewers complementing the elegant 2007 vintage, this evening offers a masterclass in flavour synergy.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="683" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/SP-19-Nov-Chateau-Batailley-Wine-Dinner_RS-1024x683.jpeg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234802683" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/SP-19-Nov-Chateau-Batailley-Wine-Dinner_RS-1024x683.jpeg 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/SP-19-Nov-Chateau-Batailley-Wine-Dinner_RS-300x200.jpeg 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/SP-19-Nov-Chateau-Batailley-Wine-Dinner_RS-768x512.jpeg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/SP-19-Nov-Chateau-Batailley-Wine-Dinner_RS-1536x1025.jpeg 1536w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/SP-19-Nov-Chateau-Batailley-Wine-Dinner_RS-2048x1366.jpeg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>



As the festival culminates, Ming Pavilion will host the Pegasus Bay Wine Dinner on 20 November, showcasing expressive wines from New Zealand’s Waipara Valley. The evening will feature masterful Fujian cuisine pairings, highlighting the versatility and complexity of Pinot Noir and Riesling, ensuring that each dish resonates with the wine’s character.



With limited seats available, guests are encouraged to secure their reservations promptly to avoid disappointment. For those seeking an extraordinary oenophile experience, the Festival of Wine at Island Shangri-La, Hong Kong promises to be a highlight—nay,&nbsp;the&nbsp;event of the year.



For more information and reservations, visit <a href="https://www.shangri-la.com/en/landing/isl-festival-of-wine-2025/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">shangri-la.com.</a>

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

The&nbsp;<a href="https://robbreport.com/motors/cars/drive-1932-maybach-zeppelin-ds8-1235849622/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Maybach Zeppelin</a>&nbsp;was first shown in 1928 with a 7.0-litre V-12 that made 150 horsepower, a stunning figure for the time, and still impressive 50 years later. Nowadays, the&nbsp;<a href="https://robbreport.com/motors/cars/gallery/how-mercedes-maybach-came-back-from-the-dead-1235696422/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Mercedes-Maybach</a>&nbsp;S680 has a 6.0-litre V-12 engine making over four times that amount of power. The marque just released a new V12 Edition of the car to celebrate the legacy.



The <a href="https://robbreport.com/tag/mercedes/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Mercedes</a>–<a href="https://robbreport.com/tag/maybach/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Maybach</a> V12 Edition debuted on Tuesday in Italy and has details like 24-carat gold in places and special badging, including an emblem that is inspired by that of the hood ornament on the Maybach Zeppelin. The two-tone paint, in colours of olive metallic and obsidian black metallic, takes 10 days to apply, the company says, which is double the time it takes to do the paint on an ordinary <a href="https://robbreport.com/tag/mercedes-maybach/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Mercedes-Maybach</a> S680.



Inside, there is a leather colored in “exclusive” saddle brown, as well as bespoke Champagne flutes, a handcrafted steering wheel, and various other emblems. The key box is also handcrafted, and the key ring is unique, which is a detail you can tell the person you may be gifting the car to.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="577" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/25C0251_005-e1758726168693.jpg-1-1024x577.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234801608" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/25C0251_005-e1758726168693.jpg-1-1024x577.webp 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/25C0251_005-e1758726168693.jpg-1-300x169.webp 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/25C0251_005-e1758726168693.jpg-1-768x433.webp 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/25C0251_005-e1758726168693.jpg-1.webp 1200w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">The Mercedes-Maybach V12 Edition badging. Image courtesy of Mercedes-Benz AG – Communications &amp; Marketing</figcaption></figure>



The V12 Edition is powered by the aforementioned V-12, which sends the car from a stop to 62 mph in 4.5 seconds. That isn’t as fast as a supercar but is pretty quick for a vehicle that weighs over two-and-a-half tons. The top speed is electronically limited at 155 mph.&nbsp;



Mercedes said it will make just 50 examples of the V12 Edition. The brand did not share how much it will cost, but it will likely be more than a base C-Class. The Mercedes-Maybach S-Class starts at around a quarter-million dollars, so we can also assume it’s more than that, too, and perhaps much more. Customers can expect to take delivery of the car this fall.



“As the embodiment of a high-quality travel and representation vehicle—as well as a sporty type for the passionate sportsman—the ʻMaybach-Zeppelinʼ is the ultimate automobile of wish fulfilment, characterised by distinguished elegance and power,” a brochure about the Maybach Zeppelin said at the time of its release. Almost a century later, Mercedes is still going for the same ideal.



Click <a href="https://robbreport.com/motors/cars/gallery/mercedes-maybach-v12-edition-photos-1237088997/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">here</a> for more photos of the Mercedes-Maybach V12 Edition.

Limited Edition

Maybach

mercedes

Mercedes-Maybach

Only 50 Mercedes-Maybach V12 Editions Will Be Made

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

Scooter

underwater scooter

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

Mansour Oijeh

McLaren

McLaren Collection

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

Fastest EV

Yangwang

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

Arsenale Group

Best of the Best 2026 Travel Experiences & Hospitality Edition

Leaders of Luxury Summit

Luxury Summit

Paolo Barletta

Robb Report

Robb Report Hong Kong

Summit

Robb Report Hong Kong Celebrates the Winners of Best of the Best 2026 Travel, Experiences & Hospitality Edition and the 2nd Edition of Leaders of Luxury Summit

Ker &amp; Downey <a href="https://robbreport.com/tag/africa/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Africa</a> wants to help you live out your full Mad Max fantasy.



The luxury travel company, headquartered in Cape Town, South Africa, just unveiled a new <a href="https://robbreport.com/tag/safari/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">safari</a> inspired by George Miller’s famed film franchise. The simply named Mad Max Safari will spotlight some of Namibia’s most remote and breathtaking destinations, allowing travellers to experience the same untamed wilderness featured in the five dystopian action flicks.



Mad Max is set in a post-apocalyptic wasteland that is at once striking and surreal. The new, fully customisable itinerary showcases equally powerful landscapes, ranging from the sweeping dunes of Sossusvlei to the vast deserts of Damaraland to the rugged mountains and sprawling plains of Kaokoland.&nbsp;



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Namib-desert-lunch-AndBeyond-Sossusvlei-Lodge_4.jpg-2-1024x576.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234801993" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Namib-desert-lunch-AndBeyond-Sossusvlei-Lodge_4.jpg-2-1024x576.webp 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Namib-desert-lunch-AndBeyond-Sossusvlei-Lodge_4.jpg-2-300x169.webp 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Namib-desert-lunch-AndBeyond-Sossusvlei-Lodge_4.jpg-2-768x432.webp 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Namib-desert-lunch-AndBeyond-Sossusvlei-Lodge_4.jpg-2.webp 1200w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Guests can take a scenic flight over the dunes and shipwreck coastline to Swakopmund. Image courtesy of Ker &amp; Downey Africa</figcaption></figure>



Unlike the films, you won’t be fighting with violent warlords over natural resources. Quite the contrary, the high-end expedition includes private chartered flights, stays in upscale hotels, and memorable experiences like traditional game drives and hot-air balloon rides. You will also have the opportunity to put pedal to the metal like Max or Furiosa, with plenty of dune driving on the cards.



“This itinerary is fully customisable and perfect for travellers seeking exhilarating adventure in dramatic landscapes while connecting with local cultures,” Ker &amp; Downey Africa COO Jenieen van den Heever said in a statement. 



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1200" height="675" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Onduli-Enclave_2.jpg.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234801985" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Onduli-Enclave_2.jpg.webp 1200w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Onduli-Enclave_2.jpg-300x169.webp 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Onduli-Enclave_2.jpg-1024x576.webp 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Onduli-Enclave_2.jpg-768x432.webp 768w" sizes="(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">You can stay in Damaraland’s stunning Onduli Enclave. Image courtesy of Ker &amp; Downey Africa</figcaption></figure>



Ker &amp; Downey Africa experts will carefully tailor itineraries to meet the preferences of each guest. A typical Mad Max safari may include two-night stays at <a href="https://robbreport.com/travel/hotels/gallery/andbeyond-desert-lodge-in-pictures-2851085/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">&amp;Beyond Sossusvlei Desert Lodge</a>, the Strand Hotel in Swakopmund, the luxe Onduli Enclave in Damaraland, and a boutique lodge nestled at the base of the Omboroko Mountains. Standout experiences include a scenic flight to Kaokoland to explore fascinating Himba culture, a private guided leopard tracking adventure, and an exclusive gin tasting session and three-course dinner at Stillhouse Atlantic. Van den Heever says the flight over Swakopmund and the Skeleton Coast is the “absolute highlight,” though. 



Ker &amp; Downey Africa isn’t the only travel company offering itineraries with a pop-culture twist. Red Savannah previously unveiled trips inspired by films such as <a href="https://robbreport.com/travel/destinations/red-savannah-italian-road-trip-ferrari-movie-1235458474/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Ferrari</a> and <a href="https://robbreport.hk/posts/gladiator-inspired-trip-through-italy" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Gladiator II</a>, while Black Tomato has crafted adventures in honour of the <a href="https://robbreport.com/travel/destinations/black-tomato-bond-inspired-itineraries-1235607610/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">James Bond franchise</a> and TV shows <a href="https://robbreport.com/travel/destinations/black-tomato-yellowstone-ripley-trips-1235678913/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Yellowstone and Ripley</a>. Clearly, there is a subset of jet-setters looking to follow in the footsteps of their favourite characters.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Sandwich-Harbour-4x4-1.jpeg-1024x576.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234801983" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Sandwich-Harbour-4x4-1.jpeg-1024x576.webp 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Sandwich-Harbour-4x4-1.jpeg-300x169.webp 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Sandwich-Harbour-4x4-1.jpeg-768x432.webp 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Sandwich-Harbour-4x4-1.jpeg.webp 1200w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">The itinerary includes a full-day Sandwich Harbour tour with exhilarating dune driving. Image courtesy of Ker &amp; Downey Africa</figcaption></figure>



“Our Mad Max-inspired journey offers a bold, unforgettable way to discover Namibia—from the wild thrill of a Sandwich Harbour dune tour to soaring above shipwreck-strewn coastlines on a scenic flight,” adds van den Heever. “With the combination of driving and flying, guests will experience Namibia from every angle.”&nbsp;



Prices start from US$21,000 (approximately HK$163,130) per person, based on a minimum of four guests. You can contact <a href="https://ker-downeyafrica.com/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Ker &amp; Downey Africa</a> for more information.

Ker & Downey

Safari

This New Safari in Namibia Takes You on Dune Drives Like an IRL Mad Max

The Venice Simplon-Orient-Express is saying ciao to one of Italy’s most spectacular coastal enclaves.



The&nbsp;<a href="https://robbreport.com/travel/hotels/belmond-venice-simplon-orient-express-italian-riviera-itinerary-1235444387/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">legendary luxury train</a>, operated by Belmond and not part of the Accor-managed&nbsp;<a href="https://robbreport.com/tag/orient-express/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Orient Express</a>&nbsp;brand, will journey to the Amalfi Coast for the first time early next year. The 2026 season also includes new three-day Italian itineraries culminating in Venice and Florence. All trips allow travellers to explore Europe’s most romantic cities from the comfort of a carriage and stay in some of Belmond’s finest hotels.&nbsp;



The <a href="https://www.belmond.com/trains/europe/venice-simplon-orient-express/journeys/paris-to-the-amalfi-coast" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">three-day Amalfi route</a>, part of the Villeggiatura by <a href="https://robbreport.com/tag/train/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Train</a> series, kicks off in Paris on 4 May 2026. Guests will be treated to a Champagne welcome as they settle into one of the opulent, midnight-blue twin cabins, elegant suites, or top-tier Grand Suites. 



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Venice-Simplon-Orient-Express-Amalfi-Coast-Route-7.jpg-1024x576.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234801972" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Venice-Simplon-Orient-Express-Amalfi-Coast-Route-7.jpg-1024x576.webp 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Venice-Simplon-Orient-Express-Amalfi-Coast-Route-7.jpg-300x169.webp 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Venice-Simplon-Orient-Express-Amalfi-Coast-Route-7.jpg-768x432.webp 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Venice-Simplon-Orient-Express-Amalfi-Coast-Route-7.jpg.webp 1200w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Guests can enjoy an exceptional menu inspired by the regions on the route.</figcaption></figure>



The train will then travel south from the French capital towards Pompeii, offering views of the Italian countryside along the way. Guests can indulge in a menu inspired by the regions on the route, followed by cocktails and live music in the iconic Bar Car “3674.”



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Venice-Simplon-Orient-Express-Amalfi-Coast-Route-2.jpg-1024x576.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234801971" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Venice-Simplon-Orient-Express-Amalfi-Coast-Route-2.jpg-1024x576.webp 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Venice-Simplon-Orient-Express-Amalfi-Coast-Route-2.jpg-300x169.webp 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Venice-Simplon-Orient-Express-Amalfi-Coast-Route-2.jpg-768x432.webp 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Venice-Simplon-Orient-Express-Amalfi-Coast-Route-2.jpg.webp 1200w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">The adventure includes a guided tour of Pompeii’s historic ruins. Image courtesy of Belmond</figcaption></figure>



The train will arrive in the ancient Italian city around lunchtime, with travellers disembarking shortly after for a guided tour of the historic ruins. Those in the Grand Suites will be given exclusive access to the rarely opened Casa del Larario Regio V, an excavated Pompeii house that provides a snapshot into ancient life. 



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Venice-Simplon-Orient-Express-Amalfi-Coast-Route-4.jpg-1024x576.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234801970" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Venice-Simplon-Orient-Express-Amalfi-Coast-Route-4.jpg-1024x576.webp 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Venice-Simplon-Orient-Express-Amalfi-Coast-Route-4.jpg-300x169.webp 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Venice-Simplon-Orient-Express-Amalfi-Coast-Route-4.jpg-768x432.webp 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Venice-Simplon-Orient-Express-Amalfi-Coast-Route-4.jpg.webp 1200w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Caruso affords postcard-like views of the Amalfi Coast.  Image courtesy of Belmond</figcaption></figure>



The train will then head to the charming, cliffside resort town of Ravello, where guests will enjoy a two-night stay in Belmond’s grandiose Caruso hotel. Perched on a cliff overlooking the Amalfi Coast, the revamped 11th-century palace combines charming original details, such as frescoes and vaulted ceilings, with modern luxuries, like a newly restyled infinity pool that sits 1,000 feet above the sea.&nbsp;



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Venice-Simplon-Orient-Express-Amalfi-Coast-Route-1.jpg-1024x576.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234801969" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Venice-Simplon-Orient-Express-Amalfi-Coast-Route-1.jpg-1024x576.webp 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Venice-Simplon-Orient-Express-Amalfi-Coast-Route-1.jpg-300x169.webp 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Venice-Simplon-Orient-Express-Amalfi-Coast-Route-1.jpg-768x432.webp 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Venice-Simplon-Orient-Express-Amalfi-Coast-Route-1.jpg.webp 1200w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Guests will spend two nights at the former 11th-century palace in Ravello.  Image courtesy of Belmond</figcaption></figure>



The first evening will spotlight the Cilento region’s local delicacies, including Controne beans, anchovies, soppressata, and artichokes. Caruso’s executive chef, Armando Aristarco, will also host a live cooking demonstration by the hotel’s wood-fired pizza oven. The evening will be capped off with regional wines, traditional Cilento music, and incredible Mediterranean vistas.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Venice-Simplon-Orient-Express-Amalfi-Coast-Route-5.jpg-1024x576.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234801968" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Venice-Simplon-Orient-Express-Amalfi-Coast-Route-5.jpg-1024x576.webp 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Venice-Simplon-Orient-Express-Amalfi-Coast-Route-5.jpg-300x169.webp 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Venice-Simplon-Orient-Express-Amalfi-Coast-Route-5.jpg-768x432.webp 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Venice-Simplon-Orient-Express-Amalfi-Coast-Route-5.jpg.webp 1200w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Caruso’s executive chef, Armando Aristarco, will whip up fine-dining fare. Image courtesy of Belmond</figcaption></figure>



The next day, guests are invited to explore the area by land or sea. You could embark on a boat tour of Positano or take a painting class with a local artist, for instance. That evening, a gala dinner will take place in Caruso’s Wagner Gardens, beginning with aperitivo and ending with a fine-dining extravaganza. It’s the perfect way to salute the three-day adventure.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Venice-Simplon-Orient-Express-Amalfi-Coast-Route-3.jpg-1024x576.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234801967" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Venice-Simplon-Orient-Express-Amalfi-Coast-Route-3.jpg-1024x576.webp 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Venice-Simplon-Orient-Express-Amalfi-Coast-Route-3.jpg-300x169.webp 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Venice-Simplon-Orient-Express-Amalfi-Coast-Route-3.jpg-768x432.webp 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Venice-Simplon-Orient-Express-Amalfi-Coast-Route-3.jpg.webp 1200w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Travelers can embark on a boat tour of Positano. Image courtesy of Belmond</figcaption></figure>



“We are thrilled to introduce the Amalfi Coast to our Italian routes, continuing to connect our legendary train with our Belmond hotels,” General Manager of the VSOE, Pascal Deyrolle, said in a statement. “This journey offers guests a unique way to experience one of Italy’s most celebrated coastlines—with its cliffs, villages, and sea views revealed in a way that only the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express can provide.”



Prices for Villeggiatura by Train start from £8,600 (about US$11,400/approximately HK$88,560) per person based on two guests sharing on the Paris to the Amalfi Coast itinerary. (That includes a Historic Cabin on the VSOE and two nights in a Superior Garden View Room at Caruso.)

Belmond

luxury train

Orient Express

train

The Venice Simplon-Orient-Express Wants to Take You to the Amalfi Coast Next Year

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-157 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

The introduction of a new collection of watches is often met with a mix of anticipation and scepticism, particularly when it promises to redefine conventions. Atelier Wen, a brand that has steadily carved its niche in the luxury watch market, has done just that with its latest offering: the Inflection, that launched earlier this week in Hong Kong. With a novel range of hues and ideation, well, colour us intrigued. 



This innovative collection marks a significant milestone not only for the brand but for watchmaking connoisseurs and collectors. Atelier Wen, renowned for its dedication to marrying traditional&nbsp;craftsmanship&nbsp;with contemporary design, brings to the table with Inflection an ambitious new standard, utilising 99.9% pure tantalum—a metal rarely seen in watchmaking outside the most elite brands.&nbsp;



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="682" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/Inflection_Duo_Permanent_1_RS-1024x682.jpeg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234802838" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/Inflection_Duo_Permanent_1_RS-1024x682.jpeg 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/Inflection_Duo_Permanent_1_RS-300x200.jpeg 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/Inflection_Duo_Permanent_1_RS-768x512.jpeg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/Inflection_Duo_Permanent_1_RS-1536x1023.jpeg 1536w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/Inflection_Duo_Permanent_1_RS-2048x1364.jpeg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>



The Inflection collection&nbsp;comprises&nbsp;three variants, each showcasing tantalum&#8217;s unique properties. This rare metal, known for its remarkable corrosion resistance and striking bluish-grey hue, is not merely a choice of material but a visual statement. The watch&#8217;s case and bracelet are crafted entirely from tantalum, a feat that underscores Atelier Wen&#8217;s commitment to pushing the boundaries of contemporary haute horology.&nbsp;&nbsp;



“Tantalum matters on the wrist for three clear reasons,” explains Robin&nbsp;Tallendier, co-founder of Atelier Wen. “It is dense,&nbsp;more or less like&nbsp;18k gold, so it feels&nbsp;substantial&nbsp;and has real presence. Its natural colour is a distinctive bluish grey that is unlike anything else. It is extremely difficult to machine, since the metal is gummy, slow to cut, and unforgiving of tolerances.” Historically, full tantalum bracelets have been extremely rare, existing solely as&nbsp;pièces&nbsp;uniques.&nbsp;Inflection changes that with a complete bracelet in pure tantalum, where every link and clasp&nbsp;component&nbsp;meets tight tolerances in a material that resists every operation.&nbsp;



The collection features a grand feu enamel dial created by the esteemed Kong&nbsp;Lingjun&nbsp;workshop, a name synonymous with exquisite enamel&nbsp;craftsmanship&nbsp;in China. The collection features a grand feu enamel dial created by the esteemed workshop of Kong&nbsp;Lingjun, a name synonymous with exquisite enamel&nbsp;craftsmanshipin China. This collaboration highlights not only the beauty of the material but also the cultural heritage that Atelier Wen&nbsp;seeks&nbsp;to celebrate. “We began with a principle, not a palette: balance,”&nbsp;Tallendier&nbsp;says of the colour scheme. “Inflection is about duality, expressed through material, geometry, and finish, so colour had to support that idea and sit naturally with tantalum’s bluish grey. It also had to work with grand feu enamel, which builds tone through multiple firings and can easily tip into harshness if pushed the wrong way. We chose tones that invite a closer look, serve the architecture, and age well, rather than colours that dominate the object.”&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/2025/11/Inflection_Wristshot_Black_RS-1024x683.jpeg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234802837" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/Inflection_Wristshot_Black_RS-1024x683.jpeg 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/Inflection_Wristshot_Black_RS-300x200.jpeg 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/Inflection_Wristshot_Black_RS-768x512.jpeg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/Inflection_Wristshot_Black_RS-1536x1024.jpeg 1536w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/Inflection_Wristshot_Black_RS-2048x1365.jpeg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>



The Inflection collection is available in three distinct variants: the limited launch edition&nbsp;Yōu, which features a&nbsp;fumé&nbsp;enamel dial transitioning from pale green to deep viridian; the&nbsp;Mò, an obsidian black variant; and the&nbsp;Yuān, which&nbsp;showcases&nbsp;a stunning midnight blue hue. Each dial is not only a testament to the skill of the artisans involved but also highlights the intricate and labour-intensive process of creating grand feu enamel. The enamelling process, which involves multiple firings at extreme temperatures, results in a surface that is both glossy and durable, providing a perfect canvas for the watch’s unique design elements.&nbsp;



Yōu&nbsp;is calm and inward-looking. “The enamel sits on a hand-hammered 925 silver base, so light breaks subtly across the surface and the gradient gains a quiet sense of movement,”&nbsp;Tallendier&nbsp;notes. “It is a demanding colour to execute because a broad, balanced gradient in green is unforgiving during firing. When executed correctly, the dial looks even and composed, and the colour supports the case and bracelet instead of competing with them.”&nbsp;



Mò&nbsp;is tuned to be a profoundly deep black that absorbs light instead of returning it. “That depth creates a very pure stage for the case and bracelet, sharpening the read of concave and convex surfaces and making each transition in brushing, frosting, and polishing register with maximum clarity,” he adds. “On a&nbsp;925 silver&nbsp;base, a black of this intensity requires careful preparation to avoid milkiness and micro-bubbling through repeated firings. The result is restraint, precision, and legibility without noise, which is the clearest expression of the design language.”&nbsp;



Yuān&nbsp;takes midnight blue and aligns it precisely to tantalum. “The metal carries a natural bluish tint, and&nbsp;Yuān&nbsp;extends that temperature onto the&nbsp;dial&nbsp;so the piece reads as a single composition rather than a metal plus a colour,”&nbsp;Tallendier&nbsp;explains. “The enamel opens gently under changing light, revealing depth without pulling focus from the overarching blueish tint of tantalum. The challenge here is consistency: if the blue drifts warmer or colder, the harmony with the metal breaks.” Traditional “lucky” reds or golds were avoided because, as&nbsp;Tallendier&nbsp;puts it, “those&nbsp;colors&nbsp;would dominate the object and reduce the watch to a statement about colour. We intended to let colour support narrative and craft, and to allow tantalum, geometry, and finishing to carry the conversation.”&nbsp;&nbsp;



At the heart of Inflection is the customised Girard-Perregaux&nbsp;movement, calibre 03300, a powerhouse renowned for its precision and finishing. This partnership with a prestigious Swiss manufacture speaks volumes about Atelier Wen’s aspirations. The support from the prestigious Swiss manufacture speaks volumes about Atelier Wen’s aspirations. The movement is adorned with features that pay homage to traditional Chinese aesthetics, including sweeping lines inspired by motifs of wind found in historical paintings. This attention to detail embodies a philosophy of harmony and balance, echoing the yin and yang dichotomy intrinsic to Chinese culture. Each&nbsp;component, from the ruthenium-plated bridges to the meticulously designed rotor, reflects a commitment to high-end finishing that is both functional and visually captivating.&nbsp;



Inflection removes flat planes from the case and bracelet, using alternating concave and convex forms with long, sharp transitions. “We did not simplify the design to make production easier; we increased its complexity to fully embrace our design vision,”&nbsp;Tallendier&nbsp;emphasises. “That makes manufacturing harder, then finishing harder again: vertical brushing must stay straight on curves, polished mid-links must remain clean, and long mirror-polished chamfers must be sharp without rolling edges.” On the wrist, the result is a character distinct from gold, platinum, titanium, or steel—delivering gravitas with a cooler, contemporary blue sheen. “Inflection is not a one-off experiment; it is a continuous collection in pure tantalum, manufactured and finished to an&nbsp;unheard of&nbsp;standard,” he says.&nbsp;



Given the complexity of tantalum manufacturing and limited production capacity—only 100 pieces of Inflection will be available in the first year—this collection is poised to become highly sought after. The by-application sales process further emphasises exclusivity, ensuring each piece finds a home with someone who&nbsp;truly appreciates&nbsp;its artistry.&nbsp;



Atelier Wen’s founders, Robin&nbsp;Tallendier&nbsp;and Wilfried Buiron, have long dreamed of creating a watch that transcends boundaries. With Inflection, they have achieved that, infusing high horology with Chinese cultural elements. You might have heard ‘East meets West’ ad nauseum, but&nbsp;here’s&nbsp;an accessory that encapsulates the phrase in form. Inflection promises to be more than a watch; it will be&nbsp;a lasting legacy, a conversation starter, and a celebration of artistry.&nbsp;



Regarding&nbsp;the market,&nbsp;Tallendier&nbsp;offers perspective: “It offers a clue, but does not give the full picture on its own. In Hong Kong, watch demand tends to move with cross-border travel and overall liquidity&#8230; For us, the situation is&nbsp;very different. Our orders for Inflection are driven&nbsp;mainly by&nbsp;committed collectors, through applications and allocations&#8230; Demand is global and tied to the work itself.” Inflection stands apart, a masterpiece in full tantalum.&nbsp;



For more information log on to&nbsp;<a href="https://atelierwen.com/?srsltid=AfmBOor0_SaIRPSxNsQV0TwMpnpxMKETzAyb1DitufMow7dzrFnIarbK" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">AtelierWen.com</a>&nbsp;

Asian

Asian watch

Atelier Wen

Watch

Atelier Wen Unveils InflectionWristwatch Collection: A Masterpiece in Full Tantalum 

Looking for something a little different than the usual Swiss fare for your wrist? <a href="https://vieren.co/?srsltid=AfmBOoqu_ftMM7mPJ3-xMA_gbsFdkfDXwhVHKw7d10ZG6bpim-PRs9cV" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Vieren</a>, a brand founded by Jess Chow (a daughter of two watchmakers) and Sunny Fong (an award-winning designer), is celebrating its 5th birthday with unique watches created by five different artists. <a href="https://robbreport.com/tag/james-goldcrown/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">James Goldcrown</a> from California, Roberta Boffo from Italy, Cosmodernism from Poland, <a href="https://robbreport.com/tag/kelly-violet/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Kelly Violet</a> from England, and Sébastien Preschoux from France has all lent their hand to creating the funky dials for the the 41.5 × 27 × 9.2  mm timepieces.



<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/2025/09/VIEREN-V-Collection-Hero.jpg-2-1024x576.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234801586" style="width:840px;height:auto" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/VIEREN-V-Collection-Hero.jpg-2-1024x576.webp 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/VIEREN-V-Collection-Hero.jpg-2-300x169.webp 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/VIEREN-V-Collection-Hero.jpg-2-768x432.webp 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/VIEREN-V-Collection-Hero.jpg-2.webp 1200w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption"><a href="https://robbreport.com/tag/vieren/">Vieren</a> V Collection Vieren</figcaption></figure>



But these are not just timepieces featuring the artists’ existing work. Each piece features a unique hand-painted creation specifically created for Vieren. “We were drawn to artists who inspired us,” Chow tells&nbsp;Robb Report. “Each of them was self taught and followed their passions to reach where they are today. From London to Paris to LA, these visionary creatives were able to tell a story through their unique artistry and meticulous hand-painted details. None of them had designed a luxury timepiece before, and seeing them translate their work onto our one-of-one miniature canvas was truly remarkable.”



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="575" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/Vieren-V-Collection-3.jpg-1024x575.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234801587" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/Vieren-V-Collection-3.jpg-1024x575.webp 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/Vieren-V-Collection-3.jpg-300x169.webp 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/Vieren-V-Collection-3.jpg-768x431.webp 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/Vieren-V-Collection-3.jpg.webp 1200w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Vieren V Collection caseback signed by James Goldcrown Vieren</figcaption></figure>



The artists were challenged to create their own interpretations of time. As you might imagine, none were too literal about it. Street artist James Goldcrown used his signature Bleeding Hearts motif to evoke, perhaps, that time is love. Tattoo artist Kelly Violet painted a haunting floral, while Cosmodernism did a composition inspired by microscopic chemical patterns. Roberta Boffo and Sébastien Preschoux went more abstract with various shapes and patterns. Each comes with a sapphire crystal exhibition caseback engraved with the artists signatures.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1200" height="674" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/Vieren-V-Collection-2.jpg.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234801589" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/Vieren-V-Collection-2.jpg.webp 1200w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/Vieren-V-Collection-2.jpg-300x169.webp 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/Vieren-V-Collection-2.jpg-1024x575.webp 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/Vieren-V-Collection-2.jpg-768x431.webp 768w" sizes="(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Vieren V Collection Art Crate Vieren</figcaption></figure>



All five pieces, made in Switzerland and powered by bespoke ETA 2671 automatic movements, will be available in a one-of-one V Collection Art Crate (US$42,000/approximately HK$326,760) in case you want to display them in your home or individually for US$9,000/approximately HK$70,020 each. All are one-of-a-kind and purchases will be honored in order of request.

Jess Chow

Swiss Watchmaker

Vieren

Swiss Watchmaker Vieren Enlists Artists to Create 5 Hand-Painted Watches

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

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