The 2025&nbsp;<a href="https://robbreport.com/tag/formula-1/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Formula 1</a>&nbsp;season hasn’t even started, and&nbsp;<a href="https://robbreport.com/tag/tag-heuer/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">TAG Heuer</a>&nbsp;has already been crowned a winner.&nbsp;



Over the summer, it was<a href="https://robbreport.com/style/watch-collector/tag-heuer-replace-rolex-formula-1-sponsor-1235787146/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"> reported</a> that the Swiss watchmaker was gunning to become the motor-racing competition’s official timekeeper, a title previously held by its competitor <a href="https://robbreport.com/tag/rolex/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Rolex</a>. Now, the brand’s parent company, <a href="https://robbreport.com/tag/lvmh/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">LVMH</a>, has successfully completed the sponsorship transfer with a 10-year contract after more than two decades. 



“I am delighted to welcome TAG Heuer as the Official Timekeeper of Formula 1 as they start the next stage of their long history in our sport,” said Stefano Domenicali, president and CEO of Formula 1,&nbsp;in a&nbsp;<a href="https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article/tag-heuer-returns-to-formula-1-as-official-timekeeper-from-2025-season.5lS9YMOfwnuaQXkRGQW11v" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">press statement</a>. “With their focus on innovation, accuracy and excellence, they are a natural partner, and I am excited to see how our intertwining heritage can tell new stories for the future as we celebrate our 75th year.”&nbsp;



In July, the watch&nbsp;company was in talks to reclaim its timekeeping duties—a role it previously held from 1992 to 2003 before Rolex took over in 2013. As Domenicali mentioned, TAG Heuer has a storied past with the auto&nbsp;racing sport ever since its logo appeared on the back of an F1 car in 1969 and became the first luxury brand to sponsor a team in 1971—which just so happened to&nbsp;<a href="https://robbreport.com/motors/cars/gallery/enzo-ferrari-bio-legend-1235793378/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Enzo Ferrari’s team</a>. After its timekeeping title was handed over, TAG Heuer still remained as a major sponsor for McLaren until 2015 and in 2016, became the official timekeeper and partner of the Oracle Red Bull Racing team. &nbsp;



“In a sport defined by mental resilience, physical strength, strategy, innovation, and performance it is only natural for TAG Heuer to be at the very heart of Formula 1 as Official Timekeeper,” added Antoine Pin, the watchmaker’s CEO.



LVMH, which is owned by French billionaire&nbsp;<a href="https://robbreport.com/tag/bernard-arnault/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Bernard Arnault</a>, has been making a push into sports ever since it sponsored the&nbsp;<a href="https://robbreport.com/lifestyle/sports-leisure/lvmh-sponsor-paris-2024-olympics-1234856390/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">2024 Paris Olympics.</a>&nbsp;The conglomerate made sure its stamp was all over the event with Chaumet designing the medals, Louis Vuitton handling the torch trunks, and Berluti creating the athlete’s uniforms. With this new agreement, expect to see more LVMH&nbsp;maisons&nbsp;trackside including Moët &amp; Chandon, who was named the official Champagne supplier for the 2025 season.

TAG Heuer

Watch

Watches

TAG Heuer Has Replaced Rolex as Formula 1’s Official Timekeeper

<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

Rolex’s Gold Watches Just Got More Expensive

<a href="https://robbreport.com/tag/richard-mille/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Richard Mille</a> is having fun again. The <a href="https://robbreport.com/style/watch-collector/lists/the-greatest-independent-watchmakers-1235792096/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">independent Swiss watchmaker</a> is known for avant-garde designs and technical prowess, but in recent years, the company has also been having a blast playing around with colour. In 2019, it debuted a collection of <a href="https://robbreport.com/style/watch-collector/cecile-guenat-changing-face-of-watchmaking-2850488/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">candy-themed watches</a> in confectionary bubblegum pink and mint green, shocking the watch industry with a downright radical approach to six-figure timepieces (all of which sold out instantly). Last year, Richard Mille made a splash with its <a href="https://robbreport.com/style/watch-collector/richard-mille-memphis-watches-1235068750/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">RM 07-01 watches</a> inspired by Ettore Sottsass’s very distinctive 1980s-era Memphis Movement, which resulted in a kaleidoscope of geometric shapes and colours on dials set in ceramic cases that ranged from baby blue and cotton-candy pink to lilac with straps in teal, coral, and canary yellow. Following up on the hue-happy vibe, Mille just released four strikingly vivid sapphire crystal <a href="https://www.richardmille.com/collections/rm-07-02-automatic-sapphire" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">RM 07-02 models</a> in lime green (two different versions in the colour), lilac, and fuchsia.



<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/rm_07_02_green_sapphire_3_4_front_boon_wb.jpg-1024x576.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234794644" style="width:839px;height:auto" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/rm_07_02_green_sapphire_3_4_front_boon_wb.jpg-1024x576.webp 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/rm_07_02_green_sapphire_3_4_front_boon_wb.jpg-300x169.webp 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/rm_07_02_green_sapphire_3_4_front_boon_wb.jpg-768x432.webp 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/rm_07_02_green_sapphire_3_4_front_boon_wb.jpg.webp 1200w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">The new RM-07 in a minty green. Image courtesy of Richard Mille</figcaption></figure>



Richard Mille was the first to make a watch case entirely of sapphire crystal in 2012, so the material is a bit of a speciality at the house. Creating coloured sapphire crystal is an added layer of difficulty in an already challenging and expensive process. The material is a synthetic form of aluminium oxide, one of the hardest substances second only to diamond. As a result, cases have to be machined with diamond-tipped tools. It can take hundreds of hours to machine the material, and room for error is so slim that a small mistake can destroy the entire piece. Coloured sapphire is even more difficult because achieving consistency in the hue is highly challenging and increases production time—one case can take over 1,000 hours just for the machining.<video muted=""></video>



<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/rm_07_02_pink_sapphire_set_3_4_front_boon_wb.jpg-1024x576.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234794645" style="width:839px;height:auto" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/rm_07_02_pink_sapphire_set_3_4_front_boon_wb.jpg-1024x576.webp 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/rm_07_02_pink_sapphire_set_3_4_front_boon_wb.jpg-300x169.webp 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/rm_07_02_pink_sapphire_set_3_4_front_boon_wb.jpg-768x432.webp 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/rm_07_02_pink_sapphire_set_3_4_front_boon_wb.jpg.webp 1200w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">RM-07 in pink. Image courtesy of Richard Mille</figcaption></figure>



Coloured sapphire crystal isn’t a novelty at the Swiss manufacture, however. It has been making a range of colours in the material since 2015. What’s new here is the lilac version and cool new dial designs. Diamonds, blue sapphires, and yellow sapphires are mixed with stones such as orange spessartite, white agate, or opal, as well as green tsavorite, chrysoprase, and malachite in chevron-style arrangements.



Beneath the eye-catching surface is the skeletonised CRMA5 automatic movement with a variable-geometry rotor, which means the watch winds by the activity of the wearer by the adjustment of two small weights. It boasts 50 hours of power reserve and features baseplates and bridges in either 18-carat red gold or white gold that are hand-microblasted and chamfered. And, just in case that’s not enough, even the oscillating weight is decked in diamonds.



<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/rm_07_02_lilac_sapphire_3_4_front_boon_wb.jpg-1024x576.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234794646" style="width:839px;height:auto" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/rm_07_02_lilac_sapphire_3_4_front_boon_wb.jpg-1024x576.webp 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/rm_07_02_lilac_sapphire_3_4_front_boon_wb.jpg-300x169.webp 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/rm_07_02_lilac_sapphire_3_4_front_boon_wb.jpg-768x432.webp 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/rm_07_02_lilac_sapphire_3_4_front_boon_wb.jpg.webp 1200w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">RM-07 in lilac. Image courtesy of Richard Mille</figcaption></figure>



What is fun and somewhat exceptional about these watches is their unisex appeal. While they might seem to skew toward women’s design, they are just big enough for men to rock while playing into the&nbsp;<a href="https://robbreport.com/style/watch-collector/small-mens-watches-trend-1234825319/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">smaller sizing trend</a>, though certainly not the&nbsp;<a href="https://robbreport.com/style/watch-collector/small-dress-watches-are-back-1235821302/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">trend toward quieter dress watches</a>. Take, for instance, Boston Celtics power forward Jayson Tatum’s lilac and canary yellow&nbsp;<a href="https://robbreport.com/style/watch-collector/jayson-tatum-richard-mille-kids-watch-1235899556/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">RM 07-01</a>, which he recently showed off at a press conference in Abu Dhabi in October. Sporting unusual wrist candy has become par for the course with athletes—Dwayne Wade was spotted in a tiny Tiffany &amp; Co. Eternity timepiece for the Academy Museum gala in October.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large is-resized"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="577" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Tatum_RM.jpg-1-1024x577.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234794648" style="width:842px;height:auto" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Tatum_RM.jpg-1-1024x577.webp 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Tatum_RM.jpg-1-300x169.webp 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Tatum_RM.jpg-1-768x433.webp 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Tatum_RM.jpg-1.webp 1200w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Image courtesy of X/Richard Mille</figcaption></figure>



As a result of the trend, timepieces like these are becoming harder to come by, and these new RMs will be no exception. Only seven of each version will be available globally.

Richard Mille

Sapphire Crystal Watches

Swiss

Richard Mille Just Dropped 4 Technicolor Sapphire Crystal Watches

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

Cubitus

Patek Philippe

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

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



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



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



<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
<iframe loading="lazy" title="Senna | Official Teaser | Netflix" width="500" height="281" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/LT7h6sUeUhU?feature=oembed" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen></iframe>
</div></figure>



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



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



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



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



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



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

Ayrton Senna

Formula 1

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

It has taken the <a href="https://robbreport.com/motors/cars/mclaren-w1-hypercar-revealed-1235895890/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">McLaren W1</a> less than a week to inspire its first outlandish timepiece.



The British automaker’s long-time collaborator, <a href="https://robbreport.com/tag/richard-mille/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Richard Mille</a>, has just unveiled the RM 65-01 <a href="https://robbreport.com/tag/mclaren/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">McLaren</a> Automatic Split-Seconds Chronograph W1. The bold watch is the fourth born out of a years-long partnership between the two brands, both of which are among the most respected names in their respective industries.



The W1 is McLaren’s follow-up to one of the brand’s most revered vehicles, the F1, and its successor, the P1. Each 1 car has been a halo model, showcasing the marque’s most advanced designed techniques, delivering boundary-pushing performance, and built-in low numbers. Sure enough, the W1 looks like a Transformer and is powered by a motorsports-derived, hybrid-assisted twin-turbocharged V-8 that makes a ferocious 1,275 horses. It’s little surprise that the vehicle costs US$2.7 million (HK$20.9 million) and is limited to just 399 examples.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/opener-w--1024x576.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234792482" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/opener-w--1024x576.webp 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/opener-w--300x169.webp 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/opener-w--768x432.webp 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/opener-w-.webp 1200w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">McLaren W1. Image courtesy of McLaren Automotive Limited</figcaption></figure>



Fittingly, Richard Mille claims that the <a href="https://robbreport.com/style/watch-collector/richard-mille-rm-65-01-chronograph-in-gray-quartz-1234876158/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">RM 65-01</a> model is its most powerful timepiece yet. The watch is powered by the Swiss company’s high-performance RMA4C automatic chronograph movement. It beats at high 5Hz, or approximately 36,000 vibrations per hour, and can keep track of two times to the nearest tenth of a second, according to the watchmaker. The 480-piece movement sits on chassis mounting rubbers and has a “rapid winding” system that allows wearers to quickly charge its 60-hour power reserve by using a special pusher made from Quartz TPT.



Performance isn’t the only area in which the watch is a match for its namesake. It features an eye-catching look as well. Its case, which measures 43.84 x 49.94 x 16.19 mm, is made from multi-later TPT carbon, features Richard Mille’s thinnest bezel yet, and sports a design influenced by the lines of the supercar. The skeletonised dial, meanwhile, is made of titanium, shares a pattern with the W1’s wheels, and has several colour accents synonymous with the automaker. Its trademark colour, Papaya Orange, also abounds, popping up on the dial, crowns, and, most notably of all, the rubber strap.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/rm6501w102-1024x576.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234792481" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/rm6501w102-1024x576.webp 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/rm6501w102-300x169.webp 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/rm6501w102-768x432.webp 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/rm6501w102.webp 1200w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Richard Mille RM 65-01 McLaren Automatic Split-Seconds Chronograph W1. Image courtesy of Richard Mille</figcaption></figure>



Richard Mille plans to build 500 examples of the RM 65-01 McLaren Automatic Split-Seconds Chronograph W1. It will <a href="https://uk.motor1.com/news/736783/richard-mille-mclaren-w1-chronograph/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">reportedly cost 320,000 Swiss francs</a>, or roughly US$374,000 (HK$2.9 million). The first 399 will be offered to W1 owners. That means there will be around 100 examples for those just looking to complete their collection of McLaren-themed Richard Mille timepieces.

McLaren

Richard Mille Just Unveiled a Sleek Watch Inspired by McLaren’s New Hypercar

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

Aviation

Business jet

corporate jet

private

Private Jet

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

Four Seasons

Private Jet Trips

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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

delta

Delta airlines

Luxury Travel

Delta Is Pulling Out All the Stops to Woo Luxury Travellers

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

boeing starliner

starliner spacecraft return

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

Beond

italy

jetsetting

luxury aircrafts

luxury leisure

Maldives

Milan

Luxury Airline Beond Is Now Flying Between Milan and the Maldives

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

Best Fine Wine

Golden Vines

Wein keiser

Wine P:roduer

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



All images courtesy of Wheelock Properties.

Hong Kong Property

legacy property

property

VIctoria Peak

Wheelock Properties

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

English billionaire Sir <a href="https://robbreport.com/tag/richard-branson/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Richard Branson</a> bought the 132-acre Moskito Island in the <a href="https://robbreport.com/tag/british-virgin-islands/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">British Virgin Islands</a> in 2007. The Virgin Group founder tapped late Taiwanese architect and educator Dr Ken Kao, a former professor at the Harvard Graduate School of Design, to create a <a href="https://robbreport.com/tag/caribbean/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Caribbean</a> <a href="https://robbreport.com/tag/private-island/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">private island</a> community, which included the <a href="https://robbreport.com/travel/resorts/moskito-island-paradise-adventure-1234658907/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Branson Estate</a> in addition to six <a href="https://robbreport.com/travel/hotels/richard-bransons-moskito-island-the-village-estate-1234758208/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">custom homes</a>. Now, the last waterfront mansion to be completed before Kao’s passing has hit the market with Hamptons and can be yours for a cool <a href="https://www.coldwellbankerbvi.com/sales_listings/the-aerie-moskito-island/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">US$58 million</a> (approximately HK$451.02 million).



Known as The Aerie, the epic waterfront property is perched high on a hilltop offering sweeping 270-degree ocean, island, and sunset views. You can even spot the neighbouring <a href="https://robbreport.com/travel/resorts/richard-bransons-necker-island-has-reopened-first-time-since-hurricane-irma-see-the-first-photos-here-2830501/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Necker Island</a>, Branson’s other BVI hideaway, which he purchased nearly 50 years ago. Altogether, The Aerie offers up 10 bedrooms and can accommodate around 20 people, making it ideal for big families and large groups of friends. For added privacy, the living spaces are split between a two-story main house and three detached guest dwellings, including a hillside <a href="https://robbreport.com/tag/villa/">vill</a><a href="https://robbreport.com/tag/villa/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">a</a> and two courtyard suites, each with their own private terraces. 



<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/A7405452-1.jpg-1024x576.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234794037" style="width:842px;height:auto" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/A7405452-1.jpg-1024x576.webp 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/A7405452-1.jpg-300x169.webp 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/A7405452-1.jpg-768x432.webp 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/A7405452-1.jpg.webp 1200w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">The open-air great room overlooks the ocean. Image courtesy of Samuel Childs at Island Films/Coldwell Banker Real Estate BVI</figcaption></figure>



The main house’s open-air great room was designed in similar fashion to the estates at Necker, bringing the outdoors—and cooling tradewind breezes—inside. If you and your guests want to spread out, head up to the viewing platform one floor above as a bonus place to hang out and watch the sun dip beneath the crystalline blue waters. Additional highlights include a gourmet wood-clad chef’s kitchen, a communal dining area, and a bunk room where the kids can separate themselves from the adults. It also comes with a sprawling crescent-shaped infinity pool that has a swim-up bar and a hot tub, making it “simply the best place to soak in the breathtaking vistas,” according to the listing.&nbsp;



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large is-resized"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/A7404918.jpg-1024x576.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234794038" style="width:838px;height:auto" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/A7404918.jpg-1024x576.webp 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/A7404918.jpg-300x169.webp 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/A7404918.jpg-768x432.webp 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/A7404918.jpg.webp 1200w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">The villa features a dining room, billiards area, and a bar.  Image courtesy of Samuel Childs at Island Films/Coldwell Banker Real Estate BVI</figcaption></figure>



Of course, for those looking to venture off property, the eco-resort has tons to do. Some of the shared amenities include three sandy beaches, two tennis courts, and a state-of-the-art gym. If you’re the more active type, you can take your pick of watersports from kayaking and paddleboarding to sailing, kite surfing, e-foiling, and snorkelling. Since its opening, Moskito Island has faced several hurdles, including severe damage from Hurricane Irma in 2017 and temporary restrictions during the Covid-19 pandemic, but has since made a full recovery. 



Click <a href="https://robbreport.com/shelter/homes-for-sale/gallery/the-aerie-moskito-island-photos-1236112852" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">here</a> to see more photos of The Aerie at Moskito Island.

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Moskito Island

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Richard Branson

Villa

villa for sale

Virgin Founder

Inside a HK$451 Million Villa on Richard Branson’s Moskito Island

<a href="https://robbreport.com/tag/toyota/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Toyota</a>’s latest creation isn’t a new car—it’s an entire city. &nbsp;



The automotive manufacturer recently completed phase one of building a new futuristic community in <a href="https://robbreport.com/tag/japan/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Japan</a>, Bloomberg <a href="https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2025-01-06/toyota-aims-to-open-its-futuristic-city-in-japan-later-this-year" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">reported</a>. Officially dubbed Woven City, the project will be located at the base of Mount Fuji at a 175-acre former factory site in Susono. Slated to launch this autumn, the metropolis will welcome its first 100 residents in its initial phase, consisting mainly of Toyota employees and their families. The population is forecasted to expand to 2,000 once it’s open to the general public.



<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/Woven-City-Photo-03.jpg-1024x576.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234794761" style="width:839px;height:auto" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Woven-City-Photo-03.jpg-1024x576.webp 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Woven-City-Photo-03.jpg-300x169.webp 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Woven-City-Photo-03.jpg-768x432.webp 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Woven-City-Photo-03.jpg.webp 1200w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Phase one of construction is now complete. Image courtesy of Toyota</figcaption></figure>



Toyota tapped award-winning Danish architecture firm&nbsp;<a href="https://robbreport.com/tag/bjarke-ingels/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Bjarke Ingels</a>&nbsp;Group (BIG) for the design, which was unveiled to the public at a consumer electronics show five years ago. In its first phase of construction, Woven City has already earned Japan’s first LEED for Communities Platinum certification.&nbsp;



According to the marque, the plan is to create a fully sustainable city that features advanced, innovative technologies such as self-driving cars,&nbsp;<a href="https://robbreport.com/tag/artificial-intelligence/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">artificial intelligence</a>, and even smart homes that can enhance mobility, connectivity, and well-being.&nbsp;The future citizens of Woven City, to be called Weavers, will be the ones who actually test out these technologies being developed by the automaker while living there and deliver feedback.&nbsp;



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large is-resized"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Woven-City-Photo-01.jpg-1024x576.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234794762" style="width:838px;height:auto" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Woven-City-Photo-01.jpg-1024x576.webp 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Woven-City-Photo-01.jpg-300x169.webp 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Woven-City-Photo-01.jpg-768x432.webp 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Woven-City-Photo-01.jpg.webp 1200w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Woven City will start moving residents in this autumn. Image courtesy of Toyota</figcaption></figure>



“This year, residents will begin moving in as we slowly bring Woven City to life,” said Toyota chairman Akio Toyoda during a press conference on Monday. “We aim to accelerate the pace at which new technologies can be tested and developed at Woven City.” &nbsp;



The Japanese auto giant first announced the project back in 2020 and, at the time, envisioned the development as a “living laboratory” for researchers and start-ups. Similarly, in 2023, billionaire <a href="https://robbreport.com/tag/elon-musk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Elon Musk</a> announced that he was <a href="https://robbreport.com/lifestyle/news/elon-musk-texas-town-snailbrook-1234816845/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">building his own town</a> in Texas to house <a href="https://robbreport.com/tag/tesla/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Tesla</a> and Space X employees. Last year, Tesla shareholders <a href="https://robbreport.com/motors/cars/elon-musk-tesla-shareholders-vote-multi-billion-pay-package-1235653510/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">approved a proposal</a> to move the company’s corporate listing to the Lone Star State.



<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/Woven-City-Photo-10.jpg-1024x576.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234794763" style="width:841px;height:auto" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Woven-City-Photo-10.jpg-1024x576.webp 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Woven-City-Photo-10.jpg-300x169.webp 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Woven-City-Photo-10.jpg-768x432.webp 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Woven-City-Photo-10.jpg.webp 1200w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">The self-sustaining city is LEED-certified. Image courtesy of Toyota</figcaption></figure>



Looking at the year ahead, Toyota has aspirations of launching an accelerator programme over the summer. The programme would invite entrepreneurs, universities, and research institutions from all over the world to Woven City to act as mentors for early start-ups.

City

Japan

toyota

Toyota Is Building a Bjarke Ingels-Designed City in Japan

In one of&nbsp;<a href="https://robbreport.com/tag/london/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">London</a>’s first major deals of 2025, a Grade II-listed&nbsp;mansion asking £38 million (or US$46.5 million, approximately HK$362.04 million) has found a buyer.&nbsp;



Measuring just over 9,000 square feet, the eight-bedroom estate on Wilton Crescent was the original home of the Ponsonby family, the Earls of Bessborough, and dates back to 1827 when it was built by architects Thomas Cubitt and William Howard Seth-Smith. Most recently during the 1990s and early 2000s, the palatial pad belonged to former billionaire financier Glenn Maud. At the time, Maud tapped Robert Kline—decorator to&nbsp;<a href="https://robbreport.com/tag/king-charles-iii/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">King Charles III</a>—to redesign the interiors of the house, which is reported to have cost £6 million&nbsp;(about US$7.3 million, or around HK$56.84 million).&nbsp;



The neo-classical residence, in addition to a mews house on nearby Kinnerton Street, was sold by Fairway Capital to an unidentified&nbsp;UK&nbsp;buyer. The investment firm acquired the abode in 2021 and put the place through yet another renovation with the help of Leconfield Property Group. By the time it hit the market, there were four other competitive bidders interested in the property. &nbsp;



<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/WiltonCrescentBelgraviadiningroom.jpg-1024x683.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234794846" style="width:840px;height:auto" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/WiltonCrescentBelgraviadiningroom.jpg-1024x683.webp 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/WiltonCrescentBelgraviadiningroom.jpg-300x200.webp 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/WiltonCrescentBelgraviadiningroom.jpg-768x512.webp 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/WiltonCrescentBelgraviadiningroom.jpg.webp 1200w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">The dining room has herringbone parquet floors. Image courtesy of Alex Winship/Fairway Capital</figcaption></figure>



“We are delighted to confirm the sale of the turn-key mansion on&nbsp;Wilton Crescent&nbsp;in Belgravia, which we believe is London’s first super-prime residential deal of 2025,” says George Brooksbank,&nbsp;CEO of Fairway Capital. “It follows £120 million of resales that&nbsp;Fairway Capital&nbsp;secured over the last few months of 2024 to buyers from the UK, Middle East, and Asia.”&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;



Post-renovation, the property now has a newly landscaped crescent-shaped garden designed by James Wyatt. In addition, the restored manse has a new lift in the main house that holds three large reception rooms and a kitchen on the ground and first floors with five bedrooms suites located on the upper levels. In terms of finishes, there are tons of details that recreate the home’s original character. Think reproduced Louis XVI fireplaces and custom-designed Versailles and herringbone-style parquet flooring.



<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/WiltonCrescentBelgraviafamilykitchen.jpg-1024x683.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234794847" style="width:839px;height:auto" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/WiltonCrescentBelgraviafamilykitchen.jpg-1024x683.webp 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/WiltonCrescentBelgraviafamilykitchen.jpg-300x200.webp 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/WiltonCrescentBelgraviafamilykitchen.jpg-768x512.webp 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/WiltonCrescentBelgraviafamilykitchen.jpg.webp 1200w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">The kitchen features book-matched marble. Image courtesy of Alex Winship/Fairway Capital</figcaption></figure>



The most modern addition, however, is the lower ground floor, which has been transformed into a wellness centre complete with a gymnasium, an underground swimming pool, and a steam room. Elsewhere, the two-story mews house sports a garage, a&nbsp;kitchen, a reception room, two bedrooms, and a bathroom.&nbsp;



“With the UK general election and 2024 Autumn Budget out of the way there has been a noticeable return to the prime central London market of discerning buyers over the last few months,” Brooksbank adds. “Buyer confidence has returned, and we are looking forward to a successful and busy 2025.”&nbsp;



Click <a href="https://robbreport.com/shelter/homes-for-sale/gallery/wilton-crescent-london-photos-1236155020" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">here</a> to see more photos of Wilton Crescent. 



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><a href="https://robbreport.com/shelter/homes-for-sale/gallery/wilton-crescent-london-photos-1236155020/"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/wiltoncrescent.jpg-1-1024x576.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234794899" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/wiltoncrescent.jpg-1-1024x576.webp 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/wiltoncrescent.jpg-1-300x169.webp 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/wiltoncrescent.jpg-1-768x432.webp 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/wiltoncrescent.jpg-1.webp 1200w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></a></figure>

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This HK$366 Million London Mansion Is the City’s First Super-Prime Sale of the Year

As Valentine’s Day approaches, equestrian aficionados and families alike are poised for an exhilarating experience at the inaugural Longines Hong Kong International Horse Show (LHKIHS). Happening at the AsiaWorld-Expo, this three-day event, taking place from 14 to 16 February 2025, promises to be a spectacle of world-class equestrian talent, action-packed activities, culinary delights, and family-friendly entertainment.



Recognised as an “M” Mark event by the Major Sports Events Committee, the LHKIHS marks a significant addition to Hong Kong’s growing sporting calendar. With attendance expected to exceed 25,000 guests, it heralds a new era for equestrianism in the region, combining thrilling competitions with a cultural celebration that appeals to all ages. 



“We are delighted to be creating this new show for Hong Kong and the Greater Bay Area,” says Richard Ireland, CEO of Clarion Events. “Building on the success of the London International Horse Show, I am convinced that we can create a long standing and highly successful event for the region, bringing the best experience to the audiences.”



At the heart of the event lies a stellar line-up of international show jumpers. Over the course of the three-day programme, visitors will witness the awe-inspiring skills of 30 elite horse-and-rider combinations in a series of 5-Star International Jumping classes. Undoubtedly, the highlight of the competition will be the Longines Grand Prix, scheduled to excite and amaze audiences on the evening of Sunday, 16 February. Attendees can expect to see world-famous riders such as Max Kühner from Austria and Scottish showjumper Scott Brash, among others, competing for a staggering total prize fund of approximately HK$6.5 million.



<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/LHKIHS_Shetland-Pony-Grand-National-1024x683.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234795029" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/LHKIHS_Shetland-Pony-Grand-National-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/LHKIHS_Shetland-Pony-Grand-National-300x200.jpg 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/LHKIHS_Shetland-Pony-Grand-National-768x512.jpg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/LHKIHS_Shetland-Pony-Grand-National-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/LHKIHS_Shetland-Pony-Grand-National-2048x1365.jpg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Shetland Pony Grand National.</figcaption></figure>



In addition to the main competitive events, the LHKIHS will feature the thrilling Shetland Pony Grand National, a delightful spectacle that introduces younger audiences to the excitement of equestrian sports. With jockeys aged eight to 14 guiding their ponies around a track filled with obstacles reminiscent of the famed Aintree Grand National, this non-competitive display also serves a noble cause, raising funds for cancer research.



<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/LHKIHS_Santi-Serra-1024x683.jpeg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234795044" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/LHKIHS_Santi-Serra-1024x683.jpeg 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/LHKIHS_Santi-Serra-300x200.jpeg 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/LHKIHS_Santi-Serra-768x512.jpeg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/LHKIHS_Santi-Serra-1536x1024.jpeg 1536w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/LHKIHS_Santi-Serra-2048x1365.jpeg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Santi Serra.</figcaption></figure>



Among the many activities planned, one performance stands out—a captivating display of horsemanship by the world-renowned equestrian artist Santi Serra. In a masterclass that showcases the unique bond between horse and rider, Serra will perform with four Arabian horses at liberty, eschewing saddle and bridle; this stunning display of trust and communication promises to mesmerise audiences as the horses execute a series of intricate movements, demonstrating the deep connection that can exist between human and animal.



For those eager to delve deeper into the world of equestrianism, visitors will have the opportunity to engage with top riders and behind-the-scenes professionals, including grooms and farriers, through a series of insightful talks and interviews at the HKJC Live Zone. As a founding partner of the event, the Hong Kong Jockey Club promises an enriching experience that will enlighten attendees about the complexities and beauty of equestrian sports.



<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/LHKIHS_Kids-Zone-1024x683.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234795030" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/LHKIHS_Kids-Zone-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/LHKIHS_Kids-Zone-300x200.jpg 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/LHKIHS_Kids-Zone-768x512.jpg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/LHKIHS_Kids-Zone-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/LHKIHS_Kids-Zone-2048x1365.jpg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">LeMieux Kid’s Zone.</figcaption></figure>



Families will find ample entertainment in the Lifestyle Village, particularly within the LeMieux Kid’s Zone, a dedicated area offering young enthusiasts the chance to participate in hobby horse-riding competitions and real-life riding simulations through specially designed courses. With a focus on fun and engagement, the LeMieux Kid’s Zone aims to foster a love for horses and equestrianism in younger generations, making it enjoyable for all.



As one would expect from an event of this magnitude, culinary offerings will play a significant role at the LHKIHS. The Chef’s Theatre will host&nbsp;15&nbsp;interactive cooking shows, featuring renowned local chefs who will share their favourite recipes and culinary secrets. Guests can expect an array of gastronomic delights that showcase the best of local cuisine, ensuring that their taste buds are equally entertained.&nbsp;



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="683" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/LHKIHS_Fashion-Runway_HKKFW-1024x683.jpeg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234795031" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/LHKIHS_Fashion-Runway_HKKFW-1024x683.jpeg 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/LHKIHS_Fashion-Runway_HKKFW-300x200.jpeg 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/LHKIHS_Fashion-Runway_HKKFW-768x512.jpeg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/LHKIHS_Fashion-Runway_HKKFW-1536x1025.jpeg 1536w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/LHKIHS_Fashion-Runway_HKKFW-2048x1366.jpeg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Hong Kong Kids Fashion Week.</figcaption></figure>



In addition to equestrian and culinary highlights, the Longines Hong Kong International Horse Show will feature a Fashion Stage, where local designers and brands will present their latest collections. From exclusive runway presentations to interactive styling tutorials, attendees can immerse themselves in the latest fashion trends. Longines Hong Kong International Horse Show has also partnered with Hong Kong Kids Fashion Week, ensuring this family-friendly fashion event is one for the ages—and all ages!&nbsp;



For those looking to indulge in a little retail therapy, the Lifestyle Village will offer a unique shopping experience with over 50 brands spanning equestrian, fashion, beauty, and culinary categories. From established names to independent artisans, visitors can browse a carefully curated selection of products, including lifestyle items packaged within stylish collectable wooden boxes. The Idea Box section will introduce 12 independent brands, each showcasing captivating products, making for an exciting shopping experience.



Tickets for the Longines Hong Kong International Horse Show are available through&nbsp;<a href="https://premier.hkticketing.com/shows/show.aspx?sh=HORSE2025" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">HK Ticketing</a>&nbsp;starting at HK$560, which grants access to the Lifestyle Shopping Village, the Warm Up Arena viewing area, and a seat in the main arena. VIP tables are also available, providing an unparalleled hospitality experience with first-class views of the action. For more information, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://www.hongkonghorseshow.com/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">hongkonghorseshow.com</a>.

Equestrian event

Hong Kong

Hong Kong event

LHKIHS

Longines

Longines Hong Kong International Horse Show

Be Dazzled at the Longines Hong Kong International Horse Show, an Equestrian Extravaganza Like No Other

Robert De Niro’s hospitality empire is welcoming its newest member.



Besides the recent debut of his second <a href="https://robbreport.com/food-drink/dining/locanda-verde-hudson-yards-robert-de-niro-1235991352/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Locanda Verde restaurant</a> in NYC, the actor is opening a luxury inn in the <a href="https://robbreport.com/tag/caribbean/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Caribbean</a> later this year, The New York Times <a href="https://www.nytimes.com/2025/01/14/travel/robert-de-niro-nobu-hotel-barbuda.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">reported</a>. Called <a href="https://www.nobubeachinn.com/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nobu Beach Inn</a>, the property will be welcoming guests to Barbuda, an island around 38 miles north of Antigua.



Being built on the former K Club resort site (a vacation spot of Princess Diana), the new hotel will be home to 17 bungalows for a total of 36 bedrooms, priced from US$2,500 (approximately HK$19,460) per night for a one-bed option. The property’s 25 privately owned beachfront villas, meanwhile, can be rented out as the owners see fit. These accommodations will cost buyers US$12 million (approximately HK$93.41 million) or more each, offering up anywhere from 4,500 to 6,000 square feet as well as 24 feet of landscaping on each side for privacy. Each room will have private swimming pools, too, and a personal staff member to cater to its guests’ whims.



Of course, there’s also a <a href="https://robbreport.com/tag/nobu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nobu</a> restaurant on the property. Open since 2020, it was the first part of De Niro’s foray into Barbuda, according to the Times. Previously, Nobu Barbuda’s clientele mostly included day-trippers from other isles, though the locale can expect a wave of new customers once the hotel opens its doors.



<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/nobubeachinn2.png-1024x576.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234794948" style="width:838px;height:auto" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/nobubeachinn2.png-1024x576.webp 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/nobubeachinn2.png-300x169.webp 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/nobubeachinn2.png-768x432.webp 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/nobubeachinn2.png.webp 1200w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">A snapshot of Nobu Beach Inn’s reception. Image courtesy of Nobu Beach Inn</figcaption></figure>



De Niro has been in the hospitality game for quite some time. The Goodfellas star founded Nobu Hospitality in 1994 alongside Japanese chef Nobu Matsuhisa—named one of Robb Report’s<a href="https://robbreport.com/food-drink/dining/lists/50-most-powerful-people-american-fine-dining-2024-ranking-1235980759/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"> most powerful people</a> in American fine dining—and film producer Meir Teper. Today, the brand has over 42 <a href="https://robbreport.com/tag/hotels/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">hotels</a> (including those in the pipeline), 12 residential developments, and 56 restaurants in its domain worldwide.



Nobu Beach Inn is the only hotel De Niro has a direct ownership stake in via his Paradise Found Barbuda LLC, the Times reported. The actor’s latest entity was formed in collaboration with Australian billionaire James Parker and international hotelier Daniel Shamoon. The trio acquired the Nobu Beach Inn grounds, which span 392 acres, for a cool US$5.2 million (approximately HK$40.48 million) a decade ago. They hold a 99-year lease on the property.



“I always thought it was something special,” De Niro told&nbsp;The New York Times. “And I said, ‘This is the spot if we can get it.’”



And soon enough, guests will be able to see just how special Nobu Beach Inn is for themselves.

Caribbean

Nobu

Nobu Beach Inn

Travel

Robert De Niro Is Opening a Nobu-Branded Inn in the Caribbean

South <a href="https://robbreport.com/tag/africa/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Africa</a>’s newest <a href="https://robbreport.com/tag/safari/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">safari</a> resort wants to give you a bird’s-eye view of the bush. 



Travel outfitter Far &amp; Few just unveiled its first sustainable safari eco-lodge, set to open this month in South Africa. Called&nbsp;<a href="https://www.fewandfarluvhondo.com/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Far &amp; Few Luvhondo</a>, the property spans 100,000 hectares (about 400 square miles) in the Soutpansberg Mountains of Limpopo with six cliffside suites that place you right within nature’s folds. Better still: The new accommodations, located in one of the most biologically diverse regions on Earth, the UNESCO Vhembe Biosphere Reserve, focus on biophilic features, regenerative tourism, and various conservation efforts to create an eco-friendly experience for all.



That experience begins with the lodge’s design, courtesy of South African–based Nicholas Plewman Architects&nbsp;and&nbsp;Ohkre Collective. The duo took cues from the landscape’s grand baobab, sycamore fig, and shepherd trees to craft the property’s architecture, such as the expansive, towering dining area. Inside, patterns and textures reminiscent of flora, fauna, and rock formations are blended with custom furniture and artwork, like in the bright, open-air suites. Here, expect breezy linens as well as hues inspired by the region’s rich clay, orange foliage, and blue skies. Of course, you can always step outside onto the suite’s expansive terrace overlooking the stunning views or take a dip in the room’s private plunge pool.



<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/Few-Far-Luvhondo_dining.png-1024x576.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234794957" style="width:839px;height:auto" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Few-Far-Luvhondo_dining.png-1024x576.webp 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Few-Far-Luvhondo_dining.png-300x169.webp 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Few-Far-Luvhondo_dining.png-768x432.webp 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Few-Far-Luvhondo_dining.png.webp 1200w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">A peek inside the dining space. Image courtesy of Jemma Wild</figcaption></figure>



Off property, Far &amp; Few Luvhondo offers up game drives, as you’d expect, where you can explore the lush terrain and (hopefully) spot giraffes, leopards, zebras, and over 600 bird species. Guided nature walks and hikes are also on the table, as well as a day trip to track down Samango monkeys. The best activity, though, may be Solfari, a solar-powered aerial safari that brings you soaring above the landscape in a cable car, a first-of-its-kind experience.



Once you’re done exploring the bush, the resort will have plenty of food to fill your plate. The culinary team, led by chef Nhalkanipho Soxhela, is offering up farm-to-table dining experiences that celebrate South African cuisine. Chow down on a traditional&nbsp;boma braai&nbsp;barbeque, try multiple courses at dinner in the bush, or enjoy drinks and snacks under the stars. And speaking of spirits, sommelier Erica Taylor is on hand to pair your meals with local wines from sustainable producers—including the region’s ever-popular&nbsp;<a href="https://robbreport.com/food-drink/spirits/gallery/best-chenin-blanc-wines-2024-guide-1235858986/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Chenin Blancs</a>.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large is-resized"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Few-Far-Luvhondo_cliffsuiteterrace.png-1024x576.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234794958" style="width:838px;height:auto" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Few-Far-Luvhondo_cliffsuiteterrace.png-1024x576.webp 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Few-Far-Luvhondo_cliffsuiteterrace.png-300x169.webp 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Few-Far-Luvhondo_cliffsuiteterrace.png-768x432.webp 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Few-Far-Luvhondo_cliffsuiteterrace.png.webp 1200w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">The Cliff Suite’s terrace.</figcaption></figure>



As for Far &amp; Few Luvhondo’s sustainability practices, the lodge is powered by renewable energy and was built with a zero-waste model. It takes things even further by making a pledge to sequester over 100,000 tons of carbon annually, as well as regenerate over 100,000 hectares via reforesting and other methods within the next 10 years, to protect the Soutpansberg Mountains’ future. The new property also has a carbon-offset programme and partners with local artisans and farmers to create sustainable jobs.



“In a post-pandemic world, luxury travel has evolved to encompass sustainability, authenticity, and a deeper purpose, and Few &amp; Far Luvhondo represents a bold new approach to this, offering travellers opportunities to engage with local cultures and landscapes while leaving a positive impact,” Sarah Dusek, cofounder of Few &amp; Far, said in a statement.



The commitment to local engagements extends to the resort’s other on-site offerings. At the spa, you can enjoy a massage or facial complete with locally sourced organic ingredients. Other wellness practices include a meditative labyrinth walk and that old-travel favorite, outdoor yoga.



Pricing at the lodge is US$3,600 (approximately HK$28,023) per night for double occupancy.



Click <a href="https://robbreport.com/travel/gallery/few-far-luvhondo-in-photos-1236164690" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">here</a> to see more photos of Few &amp; Far Luvhondo.

Far & Few Luvbondo

Safari

South Africa

South Africa’s Newest Eco-Conscious Safari Lodge Gives You a Bird’s-Eye View of Its Verdant Forest

<a href="https://robbreport.com/tag/michelin/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Michelin</a>-starred chefs are hopping aboard the British Pullman.



<a href="https://robbreport.com/tag/belmond/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Belmond</a>’s luxury <a href="https://robbreport.com/tag/sleeper-train/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">sleeper train</a> just announced a new <a href="https://robbreport.com/tag/chef/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">chef</a> dinner series that’s launching this spring. The culinary adventure will kick off in April and feature four journeys spearheaded by a rotating lineup of acclaimed UK-based icons, each bringing their take on the country’s gastronomic scene to the table. During the round-trip voyage, guests will enjoy a seasonal five-course tasting menu, paired with a Champagne reception and fine wines hand-selected by a sommelier.



The series will start on 18 April 2025, with chef Theo Randall returning to the Belmond train. Best known for his rustic Italian fare and for being awarded a Michelin star at the River Café in London, Randall will be serving up a five-course menu highlighting the best springtime ingredients. Then he’ll be handing the torch over to chef Phil Howard on 22 May. Howard, whose held two Michelin stars for nearly 20 years, has a more modern French cooking style. So, expect lots of technique complemented by balanced flavours and pristine plating.  



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full is-resized"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1890" height="1417" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/British-Pullman-Chefs-left-to-right-Chef-Phil-Howard-Chef-Atul-Kochhar-Chef-Theo-Randall-Chef-Andrew-Wong_Photo-credit-Will-Heap.png.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234794930" style="width:837px;height:auto" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/British-Pullman-Chefs-left-to-right-Chef-Phil-Howard-Chef-Atul-Kochhar-Chef-Theo-Randall-Chef-Andrew-Wong_Photo-credit-Will-Heap.png.webp 1890w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/British-Pullman-Chefs-left-to-right-Chef-Phil-Howard-Chef-Atul-Kochhar-Chef-Theo-Randall-Chef-Andrew-Wong_Photo-credit-Will-Heap.png-300x225.webp 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/British-Pullman-Chefs-left-to-right-Chef-Phil-Howard-Chef-Atul-Kochhar-Chef-Theo-Randall-Chef-Andrew-Wong_Photo-credit-Will-Heap.png-1024x768.webp 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/British-Pullman-Chefs-left-to-right-Chef-Phil-Howard-Chef-Atul-Kochhar-Chef-Theo-Randall-Chef-Andrew-Wong_Photo-credit-Will-Heap.png-768x576.webp 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/British-Pullman-Chefs-left-to-right-Chef-Phil-Howard-Chef-Atul-Kochhar-Chef-Theo-Randall-Chef-Andrew-Wong_Photo-credit-Will-Heap.png-1536x1152.webp 1536w" sizes="(max-width: 1890px) 100vw, 1890px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Four Michelin-starred UK chefs will lead a new dinner series aboard The British Pullman. Image courtesy of The British Pullman, a Belmond Train</figcaption></figure>



The British Pullman will depart for a third time on 13 June with <a href="https://robbreport.com/food-drink/dining/a-wong-london-michelin-2-star-chinese-restaurant-1234595914/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">chef Andrew Wong</a> at the helm. Wong, a Michelin two-star chef, has made a name for himself by combining regional Chinese cuisine with local British ingredients that celebrate his cultural heritage. After making his debut, Indian chef Atul Kochhar will join the train for its final departure on 24 October. Kochhar, the chef-patron of the first Indian restaurant to earn a Michelin star, blends British flavours with regional Indian cuisine.



“We are excited to launch a new chef series which showcases the various facets of the British culinary landscape on the British Pullman, with internationally acclaimed chefs expanding its presence into new destinations and new fusion cuisines,” British Pullman general manager Craig Moffat said in a press statement. “The series is a true celebration of the fine-dining experience that has made the train a cherished icon, seamlessly blending its rich heritage with the dynamic evolution of modern British cuisine.”



Prices for the celebrity chef dinner series start at £565 (or US$689, approximately HK$5,364) per person.

Belmond

Michelin chefs

sleeper train

train

train journey

The British Pullman Train Just Unveiled a New Dinner Series With Michelin-Starred Chefs

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

Aston Martin

hybrid

Supercar

Aston Martin Just Unveiled Its First Plug-In Hybrid Supercar

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

Genesis

Hypercar

motosport

This New Genesis Hypercar Will Race at Le Mans in 2026

<a href="https://robbreport.com/tag/sony/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Sony</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://robbreport.com/tag/honda/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Honda</a>’s first EV is nearing the finish line.



The Japanese electronics and automotive giants used their <a href="https://robbreport.com/tag/ces/">CES</a> press conference to announce that they have officially opened the order books for the <a href="https://robbreport.com/motors/cars/gallery/5-top-evs-at-ces-2023-1234792780/2-1098/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Afeela 1</a>. Unfortunately, only those living in California can reserve the tech-laden sedan for now.



The upcoming EV’s roots can be traced back to the&nbsp;<a href="https://robbreport.com/motors/cars/ces-2020-best-car-tech-2892202/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Vision-S sedan concept</a>&nbsp;that Sony brought to the same convention back in 2020.&nbsp;<a href="https://robbreport.com/motors/cars/sony-mobility-division-vision-s-02-suv-concept-1234656637/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">An SUV followed two years later</a>, at which point Sony and Honda joined forces to make the attractive concepts a reality. &nbsp;That year, the companies announced that they were forming a joint venture called Sony Honda Mobility that would sell EVs under the Afeela brand.



<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/afeela102.jpg-1024x576.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234794779" style="width:838px;height:auto" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/afeela102.jpg-1024x576.webp 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/afeela102.jpg-300x169.webp 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/afeela102.jpg-768x432.webp 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/afeela102.jpg.webp 1200w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Inside the Afeela 1. Image courtesy of Afeela</figcaption></figure>



Two Afeela 1 models will be available to start, the Origin and Signature, which will be priced at US$89,900 (approximately HK$699,775) and US$102,900 (approximately HK$800,965) respectively. We’re still waiting for final details, but both versions of the sleek four-door will be powered by a dual-motor powertrain that the brand claims will produce around 480 hp. The all-wheel-drive setup gets its juice from a 91-kWh battery that the brands say will go up to 300 miles between charges.



Unsurprisingly, the two Afeela 1 models are separated by their features. The Signature will be available in three colours (Calm White, Tidal Grey, and Core Black), rides on 21-inch alloy wheels, and comes with an additional rear entertainment system. The Origin will only be available in Core Black and will have 19-inch alloy wheels. Both versions come with a complimentary three-year subscription to a host of in-car features, including Level 2+ driver’s assistance, an AI-powered personal assistant, and what the brand is calling “immersive” entertainment content.



<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/afeela103.jpg-1024x576.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234794778" style="width:838px;height:auto" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/afeela103.jpg-1024x576.webp 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/afeela103.jpg-300x169.webp 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/afeela103.jpg-768x432.webp 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/afeela103.jpg.webp 1200w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">The Afeela 1 Signature in Core Black, Tidal Grey, and Calm White. Image courtesy of Afeela</figcaption></figure>



The Afeela 1 is available to <a href="https://www.shm-afeela.com/config/model/afeela1" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">reserve now through the brand’s website</a> for a US$200 (approximately HK$1,555) deposit. You’ll have to live in California if you want to pre-order the sedan, though. Sony and Honda plan to expand availability over time, <a href="https://insideevs.com/news/746356/sony-honda-afeela-ces-price/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">according to Inside EVs</a>, but it makes sense that they would focus on the Golden State at the beginning. In the third quarter of 2024, over one in every four new cars sold in California was battery-powered. Deliveries of the Signature are expected to begin sometime next year, with the Origin following in 2027.

Afeela

Afeela 1

Honda

Sony

Sony and Honda Are Now Taking Orders for Their Joint EV

Last December, Rolls-Royce Motor Cars Hong Kong proudly unveiled the Cullinan Series II at an exclusive launch event held in its state-of-the-art showroom. The occasion marked the arrival of a model that redefines luxury in the super-SUV segment, establishing a new benchmark in opulence and performance.



<figure class="wp-block-gallery has-nested-images columns-default is-cropped wp-block-gallery-1 is-layout-flex wp-block-gallery-is-layout-flex">
<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" data-id="1234795060" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Image-2-1024x576.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234795060" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Image-2-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Image-2-300x169.jpg 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Image-2-768x432.jpg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Image-2-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Image-2-2048x1152.jpg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Rolls-Royce Cullinan Series II.</figcaption></figure>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" data-id="1234795063" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Image-4-1024x576.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234795063" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Image-4-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Image-4-300x169.jpg 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Image-4-768x432.jpg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Image-4-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Image-4-2048x1152.jpg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Rolls-Royce Cullinan Series II.</figcaption></figure>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" data-id="1234795061" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Image-7-2-1024x576.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234795061" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Image-7-2-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Image-7-2-300x169.jpg 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Image-7-2-768x432.jpg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Image-7-2-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Image-7-2-2048x1152.jpg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Rolls-Royce Cullinan Series II.</figcaption></figure>
</figure>



Since its initial introduction in 2018, the Rolls-Royce Cullinan has captivated discerning clients worldwide, blending the marque’s iconic “Magic Carpet Ride” experience with unparalleled versatility across diverse terrains. Over the past years, it has reshaped perceptions of luxury motoring, becoming the most sought-after model in Rolls-Royce’s illustrious and legendary 120-year portfolio. The Cullinan Series II embodies a sophisticated evolution, meticulously crafted in response to insights gathered from the marque’s esteemed patrons. It incorporates advanced technology, premium materials, and bespoke options while retaining its timeless allure of being “Effortless, Everywhere.”



At the launch, Janice Lai, general manager of Rolls-Royce Motor Cars Hong Kong and Macau, noted the model’s exceptional appeal among a younger clientele, who value the thrill of self-driving. She highlighted that the Cullinan Series II stands as a modern testament to luxury, ensuring continued success with a new generation of discerning clients.



We couldn’t agree with her more—after all, at the&nbsp;<a href="https://robbreport.hk/posts/robb-report-hong-kong-leaders-of-luxury-summit-gala-dinner-2024" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">special award presentation</a>&nbsp;during the gala dinner, Lai was on stage to&nbsp;pick up the&nbsp;Super Luxury All-Terrain SUV&nbsp;award, on behalf of the entire team of Rolls-Royce for the incredible Rolls-Royce Cullinan Series II.&nbsp;&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/2025/01/Image-3-2-1024x576.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234795062" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Image-3-2-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Image-3-2-300x169.jpg 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Image-3-2-768x432.jpg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Image-3-2-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Image-3-2-2048x1152.jpg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Rolls-Royce Cullinan Series II.</figcaption></figure>



What makes the august vehicle so special begins with the first look; the exterior of the Cullinan Series II reflects an urban sensibility, featuring a striking vertical design that resonates with the illuminated skyscrapers of modern metropolises. Its front showcases clean lines and a monolithic presence, enhanced by a newly designed and illuminated Pantheon grille and 23-inch wheels, crafted from aluminium with a distinctive seven-spoke design.



Inside, the Cullinan Series II offers an expansive and innovative interior. The upper dashboard boasts a pillar-to-pillar glass-panel fascia, seamlessly blending digital and physical craftsmanship. The new Illuminated Fascia, inspired by the nightscapes of global cities, features an intricate cityscape graphic composed of 7,000 laser-etched dots.



In a nod to contemporary luxury, the interior palette embraces natural materials, including grey-stained ash and a unique bamboo-based rayon fabric known as Duality Twill. This exquisite textile reflects the brand’s commitment to bespoke craftsmanship and innovation.



The Cullinan Series II is not merely a vehicle; it is a masterclass in luxury and design, setting the standard for super-luxury SUVs worldwide.



All images courtesy of Rolls-Royce.

Rolls Royce

Rolls-Royce Cullinan Series II Makes a Grand Splash in Hong Kong

The Raging Bull shows no signs of slowing down any time soon.



<a href="https://robbreport.com/tag/lamborghini/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Lamborghini</a> announced that it set a new sales record after delivering well over 10,000 vehicles worldwide in 2024. That number easily beat the previous high mark, which was <a href="https://robbreport.com/motors/cars/lamborghini-new-sales-record-10000-cars-1235475219/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">set just one year prior</a>.



In total, Lamborghini delivered 10,687 vehicles globally in 2024. That figure is 6 percent higher than the total from 2023, which was the first year in which the Italian sports car maker sold more than 10,000 vehicles. The new record illustrates also just how much Lamborghini has managed to turn things around this century. The company spent much of the 1970s through ’90s on the verge of financial collapse, though its fortunes have been on an upward trajectory since it was taken over by Audi AG (which is owned by Volkswagen AG) just before the turn of the century.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full is-resized"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1000" height="563" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Lamborghini_Revuelto2.jpg.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234794770" style="width:841px;height:auto" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Lamborghini_Revuelto2.jpg.webp 1000w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Lamborghini_Revuelto2.jpg-300x169.webp 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Lamborghini_Revuelto2.jpg-768x432.webp 768w" sizes="(max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">The hybrid Revuelto is sold out through 2026Andy Casano</figcaption></figure>



Lamborghini didn’t provide a breakdown of its sales by vehicle. The company did claim that all three of its 2024 models—the <a href="https://robbreport.com/motors/cars/review-lamborghini-urus-s-1234854422/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Urus</a>, <a href="https://robbreport.com/motors/cars/lamborghini-revuelto-hybrid-1235423272/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Revuelto</a>, and <a href="https://robbreport.com/motors/cars/gallery/lamborghini-huracans-ranked-1235563169/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Huracán</a>—recorded “balanced growth,” though. That would likely mean that the Urus deserves most of the credit for the record. The <a href="https://robbreport.com/tag/suv/">SUV</a> has consistently been the brand’s best-selling model since its <a href="https://robbreport.com/motors/cars/car-of-the-year-2019-2839752/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">introduction as part of the 2018 model year</a>and accounted for 60 percent of its sales in 2023, the last year for which vehicle-specific delivery information was available. An updated hybrid version called the <a href="https://robbreport.com/motors/cars/first-drive-lamborghini-urus-se-plug-in-hybrid-suv-1235963275/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Urus SE</a> debuted this past spring.



Lamborghini did provide sales numbers by macro-region, each of which also experienced growth in 2024. Leading the way, was Europe-Middle East-Africa region, where sales were up by 6 percent, to 4,227 units. In the Americas region, sales grew by 7 percent, as 3,712 units were moved, and in Asia-Pacific region sales increased by 3 percent, reaching 2,748 units.



<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/temerario01.jpg-2-1024x576.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234794771" style="width:839px;height:auto" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/temerario01.jpg-2-1024x576.webp 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/temerario01.jpg-2-300x169.webp 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/temerario01.jpg-2-768x432.webp 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/temerario01.jpg-2.webp 1200w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Deliveries of the Temerario are set to begin in 2025Lamborghini</figcaption></figure>



There’s a chance things could be about to get even better for Lamborghini. As strong as last year’s sales numbers were, they don’t include the company’s latest car, the hybrid <a href="https://robbreport.com/motors/cars/new-lamborghini-temerario-huracan-replacement-hybrid-supercar-1235820166/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Temerario</a>, which will replace the outgoing Huracán as the lineup’s third model in 2025. Deliveries of the Urus and Revuelto figure to hold steady, too, as both vehicles are sold out through 2026. A fourth model, expected to be the <a href="https://robbreport.com/motors/cars/gallery/lamborghini-lanzador-ev-concept-1234883850/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Lanzador</a> electric grand tourer concept, will arrive before the end of the decade as well.

Lamborghini

sales record

Lamborghini Sets Another Sales Record in 2024, Moving More Than 10,000 Cars

The finish line is in sight for the road-going <a href="https://robbreport.com/motors/cars/glickenhaus-supercars-baja-buggy-2781581/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Glickenhaus 004</a>.



The street-legal versions of the American-made <a href="https://robbreport.com/tag/supercar/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">supercar</a> are finally going into production more than seven years after the vehicle was first announced. The two variants, the <a href="https://www.hkmotorcars.com/004" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">004S and 004CS</a>, will sold by <a href="https://www.hkmotorcars.com/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">HK Motorcars</a>.



The 004 is a throwback of sorts. The low-slung speed machine is bound to remind more than a few people of the vehicle that laid the groundwork for the modern-day supercar, the McLaren F1. Like Gordon Murray’s most famous creation, it has a curvaceous carbon-fiber body and a bubble cockpit that seats three (the driver up front and their two passengers just behind them). It’s not powered by a V-12 like the F1, but a supercharged V-8 produces an impressive 650 horses. If all that wasn’t enough to entice you, how about this: that output is funneled to the rear wheels via a six-speed manual gearbox.



<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/glickenhaus03.jpg-1024x576.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234793946" style="width:841px;height:auto" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/glickenhaus03.jpg-1024x576.webp 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/glickenhaus03.jpg-300x169.webp 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/glickenhaus03.jpg-768x432.webp 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/glickenhaus03.jpg.webp 1200w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Glickenhaus 004CSHK Motorcars/Facebook</figcaption></figure>



It is, in other words, the kind of supercar that purists dream of. And now, thanks to HK Motorcars, it is finally available. The dealer, which is based out of Mount Kisco, New York, has opened up the order books for both versions of the supercar. The cars share the same general look and powertrain but stand apart thanks to some unique features.



The 004S is a true high-performance vehicle, but one that you can also drive comfortably on a daily basis. Both versions of the supercar come with climate control, a backup camera, and charging ports, but the less aggressive variant adds a six-way adjustable rear seat and Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity. It is also, Glickenhaus claims, the first supercar to pass an NHTSA crash safety impact test despite not coming equipped with airbags.



<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/glickenhaus02.jpg-1024x576.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234793947" style="width:839px;height:auto" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/glickenhaus02.jpg-1024x576.webp 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/glickenhaus02.jpg-300x169.webp 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/glickenhaus02.jpg-768x432.webp 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/glickenhaus02.jpg.webp 1200w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Inside the 004HK Motorcars/Facebook</figcaption></figure>



The 004CS is the more hardcore of the pair. It wears a more aggressive aero-kit that includes front-wheel louvres, a rear hood scoop, and a blown rear diffuser. It also features bigger brakes, a front suspension lift system, and center-lock wheels wrapped in Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 tires.



If you’ve been waiting for a chance to add the 004 to your collection you might want to reach out to HK Motorcars soon. The company’s website shows that as of press time, three 004S and one 004CS build slots are available. Pricing for both models starts at US$450,000.

American-made

Glickenhaus 004

HK Motorcars

Manual transmission

This New 3-Seat Supercar Is a Street-Legal Beast With a Manual Transmission

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

Omega

Speedmaster

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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

Orkos

Watchlock

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

Steve Kozloff is making his marine dream a reality.



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

Deep Sea Dreamer

Steve Kozloff

Submarine

This Insane Submarine Concept Doubles as a 107-Foot Superyacht

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

Carbon-Fibre

Mayla

Speedboat

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

AI powered

catamaran

Design Miami

Rossinavi

Salsea

This Curvaceous 140-Foot Hybrid Catamaran Is Powered by AI

The new, multibillion-dollar superyacht destination of <a href="https://robbreport.com/travel/luxury-travel/sindalah-jewel-red-sea-1234834183/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Sindalah Island</a> kicked off its recent inauguration with the mother of all superyacht parties.



Nearly 65 vessels, the majority above 165 feet, journeyed to the northern Red Sea for a lively “Red Sea Week” that featured premium entertainment, wine, cuisine, and waterborne activities.



“We were able to bring together more than 650 of the world’s most accomplished and interesting people,” says Luke Bahrenburg, publisher of <a href="https://robbreport.com/tag/robb-report/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Robb Report</a>, who organised the event on behalf of Penske Media Corporation, Robb Report’s parent company. “We put together unusual, special culinary moments, helicopter rides, water sports, entertainment, and hopefully many unforgettable memories.”



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="681" height="383" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/2.Sindalah2_9b4ff3.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234793253" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/2.Sindalah2_9b4ff3.webp 681w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/2.Sindalah2_9b4ff3-300x169.webp 300w" sizes="(max-width: 681px) 100vw, 681px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Red Sea Week had formal parties, outdoor activities, and many culinary events. Image courtesy of Fight Gravity Films</figcaption></figure>



“The organisers spared no expense and really blew it out of the water,” says Alexander Yulish, a Manhattan-based painter and one of the VIP guests who stayed aboard the 237-foot <a href="https://robbreport.com/motors/marine/6-luxury-charter-yachts-to-explore-remote-destinations-1234658921/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Bleu de Nimes</a>. “The guests were all sorts—from creatives to CEOs to high-net-worth families. There was a lot of mingling, which really added to the event.”



Shows such as the <a href="https://robbreport.com/motors/marine/gallery/monaco-yacht-show-2024-1235866205/'" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Monaco Yacht Show </a>and the <a href="https://robbreport.com/motors/marine/gallery/fort-lauderdale-international-boat-show-best-yachts-2024-1235964017/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show (FLIBS)</a> exhibit <a href="https://robbreport.com/tag/superyachts/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">superyachts</a> to potential buyers, but this event was one of a kind, bringing together yacht owners, captains, world-class chefs, and double the number of guests that organisers had anticipated.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="681" height="383" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/2.1.SindalahMarina-AM.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234793255" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/2.1.SindalahMarina-AM.webp 681w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/2.1.SindalahMarina-AM-300x169.webp 300w" sizes="(max-width: 681px) 100vw, 681px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">The new superyacht marina was the event’s focal point, with 65 superyachts venturing to Sindalah from Europe and other parts of the Middle East. Image courtesy of Fight Gravity Films</figcaption></figure>



Red Sea Week’s superyacht list was as impressive an assemblage as any single event, rivaling even the Monaco Yacht Show. It included <a href="https://robbreport.com/motors/marine/boat-of-the-week-this-sleek-new-180-foot-superyacht-is-like-an-open-air-dance-floor-on-the-water-1234591613/">Geco</a>, Golden Odyssey, <a href="https://robbreport.com/motors/marine/gallery/superyacht-cloudbreak-images-1234856932/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Cloudbreak</a>, <a href="https://robbreport.com/motors/marine/gallery/oceanco-dar-superyacht-1235685559/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Dar</a>, and historical yachts such as <a href="https://robbreport.com/motors/marine/boat-of-the-week-this-historic-325-foot-superyacht-hosted-jfk-winston-churchill-and-elizabeth-taylor-1234876298/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Christina O</a> and <a href="https://robbreport.com/motors/marine/this-240-foot-classic-lurssen-complete-makeover-1234752058/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Coral Ocean</a>.



“I’ve been on many yachts, but this gathering had a totally different feel,” says Yulish. “Their idea of the next iteration of yachting was really inspiring.”



Having been at the first Red Sea Week in <a href="https://robbreport.com/travel/destinations/red-sea-event-2873483/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">2019</a>, Yulish recalls a very different environment. “There was a rawness that was palpable—you could almost see fossils coming out of Sindalah’s seawalls,” he says. “This time around it had a different sense of beauty. They developed it but kept a lot of rock formations and other landmarks to keep the balance between old and new.”



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="681" height="383" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/2.-Sind-CR626138-2.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234793256" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/2.-Sind-CR626138-2.webp 681w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/2.-Sind-CR626138-2-300x169.webp 300w" sizes="(max-width: 681px) 100vw, 681px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Opera singer Katherine Jenkins, along with Alicia Keys and comedian Chris Tucker, performed during the week. Image courtesy of Fight Gravity Films</figcaption></figure>



“Sindalah is one of the world’s first projects to have a single island designed and built from the ground up,” says Luca Dini, an Italian designer responsible for creating the island’s upscale village vibe. The island encompasses just 20 acres, so Dini had to be inventive to create a full-featured luxury environment that also blended in with the coral reefs and clear waters of the Red Sea.



The designer also added features such as “interactive” quartz columns to provide unique sensory experiences and aesthetic appeal. Traditional Saudi elements such as mosaics were reinvented as ceiling coverings, while fibre optics were embedded into the plaster walls to illuminate at night.



On Sindalah’s coastline, hundreds of thousands of coral pieces were relocated to enhance existing reefs. About 30,000 workers contributed to the island’s five-year development.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="681" height="383" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/2.SindalahGolfcourse.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234793257" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/2.SindalahGolfcourse.webp 681w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/2.SindalahGolfcourse-300x169.webp 300w" sizes="(max-width: 681px) 100vw, 681px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">The 20-acre island has a golf course as well as the superyacht marina, high-end retail, and over 38 eateries. Image courtesy of Fight Gravity Films</figcaption></figure>



The island is the first piece of a larger regional jigsaw puzzle, overseen by state development agency Neom, which has a US$500 billion (HK$3.89 trillion) budget to help diversify Saudi Arabia’s economy via its Saudi Vision 2030 initiative.



Other developments include the advanced industrial city Oxagon, a mountain destination called Trojena, and the Line—a linear “smart city” housed in a single building that will be 110 miles long, 660 feet wide, and 1,600 feet tall.



Beyond being the first Neom development to open, Sindalah will be the crown jewel of the initiative. It’s designed not only for the ultra-wealthy, but specifically for superyachts. The goal is to become the next big yachting and charter destination, rivalling the Caribbean for winter cruising.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="681" height="383" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/2.SindRestaurants_016a91.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234793258" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/2.SindRestaurants_016a91.webp 681w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/2.SindRestaurants_016a91-300x169.webp 300w" sizes="(max-width: 681px) 100vw, 681px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Caviar tastings and creative cuisine from Michelin-starred chefs were a central part of the week. Image courtesy of Fight Gravity Films</figcaption></figure>



For hundreds of yachts that make the annual pilgrimage, not having to cross the Atlantic from the Med and come back again for the summer will be a welcome change. “Fuel and maintenance expenses are crazy for any transatlantic trip,” says Captain George Ioannou, captain of the 181-foot Admiral Geco, which cruised to Sindalah in two days from Greece. “It takes a lot out of the boat and the crew.”



The word “amazing” was repeated many times among crew and captains about Sindalah’s new marina. “The facilities and hospitality were exceptional,” says Ionannou. “In this part of the Red Sea, we’re also safe from what’s happening in the rest of the region.”



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="681" height="383" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/2.-Sindalah-copy.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234793259" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/2.-Sindalah-copy.webp 681w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/2.-Sindalah-copy-300x169.webp 300w" sizes="(max-width: 681px) 100vw, 681px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">The marina offers protection but easy access to the local cruising grounds. Image courtesy of Fight Gravity Films</figcaption></figure>



The marina harbour has 85 berths for yachts up to 165 feet, while buoys just outside accommodate gigayachts to 550 feet. The full-service marina includes a yacht club, while the island has a sports club, a spa and wellness centre, more than 51 luxury retail outlets, a golf course, and 38 restaurants, including nine fine-dining establishments and three pop-up eateries on rooftops. 



The island also offers catered cuisine for the superyachts. Neom plans to build other marinas in the area, creating a cruising ground for visiting vessels.



Red Sea Week included a broad swath of owners and yachts from all over the world, including Europe, the US, and Saudi Arabia. Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman announced the island’s development in late 2022, and several members of the Saudi royal family were on hand for the official opening.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="424" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Unknown-1.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234793260" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Unknown-1.webp 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Unknown-1-300x124.webp 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Unknown-1-768x318.webp 768w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">The main stage, built from a converted barge, provided the entertainment all week. Image courtesy of Fight Gravity Films</figcaption></figure>



Red Sea Week featured A-list entertainers such as Alicia Keys, opera singer Katherine Jenkins, and comedian Chris Tucker, as well Saudi entertainers Aref Jaman, Hatoon Idrees, and Eli. Helicopter rides, scuba and snorkelling, private yoga sessions, and personal concierge shopping at Sindalah’s high-end retailers—including Kiton, Jil Sander, and Santoni—were part of the itinerary.



“They had this amazing light show that felt like you were on another planet,” says Yulish. “All these lights pierced the black, inky sky, almost trying to bring the stars onto the ground. It felt like someone’s dream, but was so real you could almost touch and taste it.”



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="681" height="383" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/2.Sindalah-copy.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234793261" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/2.Sindalah-copy.webp 681w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/2.Sindalah-copy-300x169.webp 300w" sizes="(max-width: 681px) 100vw, 681px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Sindalah’s extensive coral reefs will be a big draw. The local waters have 1,100 species of fish. Image courtesy of Neom</figcaption></figure>



The week included tastings of world-class caviar and wine, plus cuisine from two of Italy’s most celebrated chefs, Carlo Cracco and Norbert Niederkofler, as well as other chefs as part of&nbsp;Robb Report’s Culinary Masters event. On the island, 12 eateries will be backed by Michelin-starred chefs.



“The organisers did this week in such a beautiful way,” says Yulish. “The events felt more like life experiences than going to different booths at convention hall. People were sharing what they’d created—whether it was the chefs with their wonderful food or listening to live opera. There was also a kindness that made the week special, spontaneous.”



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="681" height="383" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/2.-SindCR625084.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234793262" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/2.-SindCR625084.webp 681w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/2.-SindCR625084-300x169.webp 300w" sizes="(max-width: 681px) 100vw, 681px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">An idyllic ocean view without crowds. Image courtesy of Fight Gravity Films</figcaption></figure>



Sindalah is still under development, though the marina, <a href="https://robbreport.com/travel/luxury-travel/sindalah-yacht-club-elite-boating-hub-masterminded-italian-design-maestro-stefano-ricci-1235867094/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">yacht club</a>, golf course, and several hotels and restaurants are open for business. Eventually, the island will have 413 luxury hotel rooms and 333 apartments from brands such as Four Seasons and Marriott, along with multiple types of restaurants and high-end retail establishments.



By 2028, organisers expect to accommodate several thousand people per day.



But the kind of welcome the superyacht community received during Red Sea Week was a one-time affair. “Everything was so well curated,” says Yulish. “They only left the magic to chance, but there was no shortage of that, either.”

Red Sea Week

Robb Report

Sindalah Island

Robb Report Throws a Massive Superyacht Bash in the Red Sea to Celebrate the Launch of Sindalah Island

Earlier this year, superyacht builder <a href="https://robbreport.com/tag/oceanco/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Oceanco</a> revealed multiple exteriors for its <a href="https://robbreport.com/motors/marine/oceanco-simply-custom-superyachts-portofino-storm-1235469808/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Simply Custom</a> series. The Dutch builder, which has launched famous superyachts such as <a href="https://robbreport.com/motors/marine/gallery/jeff-bezos-koru-sailing-superyacht-1235852521/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Koru</a>, the world’s largest sailboat for Jeff Bezos, just unveiled interiors for its semi-custom series.



Oceanco revealed the <a href="https://robbreport.com/tag/simply-custom/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Simply Custom</a> concept last year at the <a href="https://robbreport.com/motors/marine/new-launches-concepts-fort-lauderdale-boat-show-1235386402/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show</a>. Unlike the builder’s bespoke superyacht series, Simply Custom all have the same 262-foot lengths, but with one-of-a-kind interiors from some of the world’s most famous yacht designers, including Espen Øino, Lobanov Design, and Nuvolari Lenard.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="681" height="383" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/2.Dini_.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234793150" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/2.Dini_.webp 681w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/2.Dini_-300x169.webp 300w" sizes="(max-width: 681px) 100vw, 681px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">This dramatic beach club has a waterfall and an upper level for dining. Image courtesy of Oceanco</figcaption></figure>



The advantages for buyers include gaining an Oceanco pedigree for the vessel, but with a shorter build time and a range of interiors and exteriors that the client chooses. The yachts will also be available with electric propulsion and interior energy system which adds a sustainability element.



Six world-class interior designers were given a blank canvas to create their interiors, and the results are strikingly different, from Luca Dini’s waterfall through the superyacht’s two-level beach club to the large picture windows on the interior salon by Francois Zuretti.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="681" height="383" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/2.2Zuretti_b59338.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234793151" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/2.2Zuretti_b59338.webp 681w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/2.2Zuretti_b59338-300x169.webp 300w" sizes="(max-width: 681px) 100vw, 681px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Francois Zuretti’s dining area is next to a gigantic picture window for stunning ocean views. Image courtesy of Oceanco</figcaption></figure>



The concepts all share a sense of elegance, and some like Dini’s are groundbreaking. Francois Zuretti and Sebastien Gey of Zuretti Design came up with Terra as a way to “envision the relationship” between the interior and exterior. The interior salon has a dining area in a double-height space with a gigantic window, offering “protection with a dramatic framing of the breathtaking beauty of the sea,” the designers said in a statement. Another lounge actually slides outside on an opening balcony to “stage a great leap towards the oceans.”



Simply Custom is not only a first for the superyacht world, but with the interiors now revealed, it could be the world’s most expensive mix and match.



Click <a href="https://robbreport.com/motors/marine/gallery/oceanco-simply-custom-interiors-photos-1235979237/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">here</a> to learn more about Simply Custom’s interiors.

Oceanco

Simply Custom

Superyacht

You Can Now Have a Two-Story Beach Club With a Waterfall on Your Oceanco Superyacht

<a href="https://robbreport.com/tag/numarine/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Numarine</a>’s first hybrid explorer yacht has hit the seas.



The <a href="https://robbreport.com/motors/marine/numarine-30xp-explorer-yacht-1235406822/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">30XP</a> debuted at the <a href="https://robbreport.com/motors/marine/gallery/cannes-yachting-festival-launches-2024-1235818216/rr-mv-requests-081924-6/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Cannes Yachting Festival</a> in late September, marking the start of a cleaner, greener era for the European yard.



First unveiled in September 2022 to mark Numarine’s 20th anniversary, the <a href="https://www.numarine.com/30XP-Detail3" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">101-foot model</a> sits squarely in the middle of a seven-strong lineup that ranges from 72 to 148 feet. As with the rest of Numarine’s sleek, steel-hulled explorers, the 30XP was designed inside and out by Turkish-based designer Can Yalman but is equipped with a propulsion system that sets her apart from her sisterships.



The newcomer can be powered by either a hybrid setup comprising two electric engines and four 108 kW diesel generators or a traditional drivetrain featuring twin 560 hp MAN engines. Both options give the 101-footer the same maximum speed of around 13 knots, a cruising speed of 10 knots, and a range of 3,000 nautical miles at 8 knots, but the diesel-electric system uses less fuel, produces fewer emissions, and is cheaper to run than conventional gas engines. To further reduce environmental impact, Numarine has incorporated eco-friendly materials and various waste/recycling systems throughout the yacht.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/Numarine_30XP_10.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234792235" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/Numarine_30XP_10.webp 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/Numarine_30XP_10-300x169.webp 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/Numarine_30XP_10-768x432.webp 768w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">The aft decks. Image courtesy of Numarine</figcaption></figure>



The 30XP will be capable of taking owners and their families “far and wide in tremendous comfort and safety,” according to Numarine chairman Ömer Malaz. The explorer will be outfitted with advanced stabilisation systems, high-tech navigation gear, and smart home technologies to elevate the cruising experience. Furthermore, the yacht has a raised pilothouse design that results in a large internal volume of 208 GT.



Penned in partnership with Istanbul-based Ofist Design Studio, the generous living quarters showcase the simplicity, minimalism, and functionality synonymous with Scandinavian design. Think natural stone floors, sisal rugs, and pale oak panelling. The layout can be adapted to meet the requirements of individual clients, but the standard configuration sees a large owner’s suite forward on the main deck, four guest cabins on the lower deck, and a crew quarters for five. The first hull features two VIPs and two standard doubles for guests, plus a lavish owner’s suite with an office and balcony.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/Numarine_30XP_6.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234792236" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/Numarine_30XP_6.webp 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/Numarine_30XP_6-300x169.webp 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/Numarine_30XP_6-768x432.webp 768w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">The salon. Image courtesy of Kerem Sanliman</figcaption></figure>



On the main deck, the light-filled salon is fitted with sliding doors that open to several epic outdoor spaces. Highlights include a plush, alfresco dining area on the aft deck, a semi-open beach club with fold-down wings, and a flybridge with the square footage of a larger yacht. Another standout is the side-loading tender bay, which can accommodate a 19-foot runabout.



“This yacht offers an exceptional onboard experience with its spacious and well-appointed interiors, stunning exterior design, advanced technological features, and sustainable attributes,” Malaz said in a statement.



The 30XP is already proving quite popular, too: Four units have been sold off-plan since 2022. Stay tuned for future launches.



Click <a href="https://robbreport.com/motors/marine/gallery/numarine-30xp-hybrid-superyacht-1235899529/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">here</a> to see all the photos of the first Numarine 30XP.

30XP

Cannes Yachting Festival

Numarine

Numarine Just Unveiled Its First Hybrid Explorer Yacht