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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

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

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

One futuristic <a href="https://robbreport.com/motors/aviation/space-race-space-balloon-1234645625/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">space balloon</a> could be up, up, and away as soon as next year.



<a href="https://www.eosxspace.com/" rel="noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">EOS-X Space</a>, the first Spanish space exploration company, has&nbsp;<a href="https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/eos-x-space-will-begin-operating-its-space-flights-in-spain-and-abu-dhabi-in-2025-with-a-total-investment-of-more-than-230-million-dollars-302177819.html" rel="noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">just announced</a>&nbsp;that its Spaceship capsules will be ready to fly passengers to the outer edge of the stratosphere by 2025.



The aim is to start running flights from the company’s headquarters in Seville and from the city of Abu Dhabi around the third quarter of next year. The company says it is spending more than US$230 million (HK$1.79 billion) on engineering and development in both countries to get fliers in the skies. It is also currently in a multi-million dollar investment round led by US investment bank FTI Capital Advisor.



At the same time, company founder and CEO Kemel Kharbachi is finalising the development of the Spaceship capsules and locking in the necessary validation tests. The company expects trials “will take place soon,” with the help of military pilots and the National Institute for Aerospace Technology (INTA).



<iframe loading="lazy" width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/31s-jM8UkHw?si=614MuehzohptDMnm" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen></iframe>



The pressurised carbon-fibre Spaceship, which the company first floated as an idea in 2020, will be propelled by a zero-emission, helium-filled balloon. It will reportedly fly seven passengers and one pilot to an altitude of 131,234 feet, or about 25 miles above the Earth. Each flight will take around five hours, with the capsule launching from the base at dawn, ascending for two hours, cruising at altitude for another two hours, and then descending over one more hour to land.



The upscale interior of each capsule is outfitted with plush ergonomic seats, panoramic windows through which you can enjoy otherworldly views, an onboard bar, and a bathroom. The price per passenger will range from €150,00 to €200,00 (US$160,550 to US$214,060/HK$1.25 million to HK$1.67 million). Those flying out of Seville can also check out immersive experiences at the company’s SpaceHub Complex in La Isla de la Cartuja and stay in an ultra-luxury hotel in the city.



EOS-X Space isn’t the only company in the stratospheric space race, of course: One French and two American firms are also working on <a href="https://robbreport.com/motors/aviation/space-balloon-companies-luxe-amenities-1235397361/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">massive space balloons</a> and pressurised capsules. All three crafts are similar in design and capability, so the <a href="https://robbreport.com/motors/aviation/space-balloon-travel-space-perspective-world-view-zephalto-1234837942/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">respective companies </a>are now trying to best each other with luxury amenities. US outfit <a href="https://robbreport.com/motors/aviation/space-perspective-neptune-spacecraft-test-flights-1235516019/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Space Perspective</a> is incorporating a “Space Spa” into its <a href="https://robbreport.com/motors/aviation/new-space-balloon-jmorphed-into-a-new-shape-1234730784/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Spaceship Neptune</a>, while French competitor <a href="https://robbreport.com/motors/aviation/zephalto-space-balloon-launch-1234832672/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Zephalto</a> will offer an onboard menu from a Michelin-starred chef. Stateside competitor World View has also touted luxe in-flight dining and bar service. The race is on, folks.

EOS-X Space

Space Balloon

This Spanish Space Balloon Will Start Flying From Seville to the Stratosphere Next Year

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/blue-origin/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Blue Origin</a> announced that it will be launching a rocket this Sunday, ending a nearly two-year drought. The <a href="https://robbreport.com/tag/space-tourism/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">space tourism</a> firm hasn’t held a crewed suborbital mission since its <a href="https://robbreport.com/motors/aviation/amazing-sight-newly-minted-astronaut-1234688495/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NS-22 flight</a> in August 2022. A month after that event, during an uncrewed flight, its New Shepard spacecraft disengaged itself from the rocket mid-flight. The capsule parachuted safely back to Earth.



A “thermo-structural failure” on the rocket’s BE-3PM engine nozzle was blamed for the malfunction. After 15 months, Blue Origin returned in <a href="https://robbreport.com/motors/aviation/blue-origin-restarting-flying-1235444852/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">December 2023</a> with its uncrewed NS-24 mission.



The company is offering both research and space-tourism suborbital missions that fly to about 100 kilometres above the Earth to the Karman line, which many scientists call the edge of space. At that point, the crew experiences a few minutes of weightlessness before the capsule drops back to the company’s launch facility in Van Horn, Texas. The flight and space experience lasts about 10 minutes.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/2.-ClintKelly_WIndowView.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234787910" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/2.-ClintKelly_WIndowView.webp 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/2.-ClintKelly_WIndowView-300x169.webp 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/2.-ClintKelly_WIndowView-768x432.webp 768w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Retired aerospace engineer Clint Kelly, the second-oldest man to travel to space, could be the poster child for space tourism. Image courtesy of Getty Images</figcaption></figure>



This mission’s crew is as eclectic as previous flights. It includes Ed Dwight, 90, who in 1961 became the US’s first-ever black astronaut candidate; venture capitalist Mason Angel; Sylvain Chiron, the founder of French craft brewery Brasserie Mont Blanc; entrepreneur Kenneth L. Hess; retired accountant Carol Schaller; and pilot and aviator Gopi Thotakura.



Blue Origin’s resumption of commercial flights—rumored to cost anywhere between US$200,000 (HK$1.56 million) and the US$28 million (HK$218.4 million) one civilian astronaut supposedly paid for the initial flight—means the space race between Jeff Bezos’s company and Richard Branson’s <a href="https://robbreport.com/tag/virgin-galactic/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Virgin Galactic</a> is finally getting serious.



Sort of.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/2.-VSS-Unity.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234787911" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/2.-VSS-Unity.webp 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/2.-VSS-Unity-300x169.webp 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/2.-VSS-Unity-768x432.webp 768w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Virgin Galactic’s VSS Unity during a suborbital flight. Image courtesy of Virgin Galactic</figcaption></figure>



Virgin Galactic says it will be launching its seventh commercial flight aboard its supersonic aircraft VSS Unity on 7 June. Unity will be tethered to a larger mothership, Eve. The two aircraft take off together and separate at 45,000 feet, at which point Unity heads skywards. This would be Virgin Atlantic’s seventh space-tourism flight after it officially launched its <a href="https://robbreport.com/motors/aviation/virgin-galactic-completes-first-commercial-space-flight-1234862250/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">commercial flight programme</a> last year. It flew an earlier mission on 26 January.



7 June’s full crew roster has yet to be released, though Turkish astronaut Tuva Atasever will be on the flight doing suborbital research, according to Axiom Space, a company that has facilitated trips for other scientists to the International Space Station. The other space tourists on the 7 June flight will include two Americans and an Italian.



But there won’t be the highly anticipated leapfrogging between Virgin Galactic and Blue Origin that observers expected after <a href="https://robbreport.com/motors/aviation/richard-branson-unity22-virgin-galactic-space-flight-1234623915/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Branson</a> and <a href="https://robbreport.com/motors/aviation/blue-origin-jeff-bezos-space-flight-1234625502/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Bezos</a> both flew in their respective spacecraft in the summer of 2021.



June’s flight will be the last for VSS Unity, effectively mothballing Virgin Galactic’s commercial programme until 2026. The company is developing two new Delta-class spaceplanes which, if all goes according to plan, should be doing hundreds of suborbital flights, as opposed to a half-dozen, in two years. Virgin Galactic plans to fly 125 flights per year going forward, putting 750 tourists (a seat on the aircraft now costs <a href="https://robbreport.com/motors/aviation/you-can-now-reserve-a-seat-on-virgin-galactics-space-flight-for-1234664075/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">US$450,000</a> / HK$3.51 million) into space. At that point, the company Branson founded 20 years ago will be making money for the first 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/2024/05/2.-SpaceX-GettyImages-2086314936.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234787912" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/2.-SpaceX-GettyImages-2086314936.webp 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/2.-SpaceX-GettyImages-2086314936-300x169.webp 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/2.-SpaceX-GettyImages-2086314936-768x432.webp 768w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption"><a href="https://robbreport.com/tag/spacex/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">SpaceX</a>’s website has four possible missions for civilian astronauts, including the moon and Mars. Image courtesy of Getty Images</figcaption></figure>



Several weeks ago, SpaceX seemed to officially declare itself open for space tourism business by adding a <a href="https://www.spacex.com/humanspaceflight/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">page to its website</a> that described four missions that citizen astronauts could sign up for, even including an email address humanspaceflight@spacex.com. (But the “Join a Mission” button on the page goes nowhere.) The company has accommodated <a href="https://robbreport.com/motors/aviation/civilian-astronaut-jared-isaacman-1234728039/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">private civilian mission</a><a href="https://robbreport.com/motors/aviation/civilian-astronaut-jared-isaacman-1234728039/">s before</a>, but this is the first time SpaceX has floated the possibility to the public.



Elon Musk’s company, which went from plucky startup to the dominant force in commercial space transport, showed diagrams of its two spaceship types, the Dragon and much larger Starship, also noting four possible missions. They include a three- to six-day Earth orbit later this year aboard the Dragon. A 10-day trip for four to the International Space Station will be available as early as 2025.



The 7-day moon mission, 240,000 miles from Earth, doesn’t have a launch date yet. But the website noted it could carry up to 12 passengers in their own suites, presumably aboard Starship. The flight to Mars would involve traveling 140 million miles away from the planet. It didn’t give any information about costs or dates, though it did note that gravity on Mars is 38 per cent of that of Earth’s, and a day there is 24 hours, 37 minutes.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="575" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/RR_MV_Requests_051524_1.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234787913" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/RR_MV_Requests_051524_1.webp 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/RR_MV_Requests_051524_1-300x168.webp 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/RR_MV_Requests_051524_1-768x431.webp 768w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">The billionaires’ space race could accelerate in 2026 if Virgin Galactic can actually pull off 175 flights per year. Image courtesy of Getty Images</figcaption></figure>



Three years ago, many observers forecasted the race to space among the three billionaires would be a slugfest at this point, but technical failures and modifications for all three have tempered expectations, showing that space travel will not be as seamless as proponents expected.



Still, Sunday’s projected flight shows that the race is still on. It just may be more marathon than sprint between the three space-tourism companies.

Blue Origin

Space Race

SpaceX

virgin galactic

The Billionaire Space Race Is About to Heat Up Again—Here’s What You Need to Know

Planes with flapping wings sound more anime than aerospace, but the world’s largest airframers on both sides of the Atlantic are expediting prototypes that could shape the next generation of business and commercial jets in entirely unconventional ways. 



Their mission? To make aircraft exceedingly more fuel-efficient and help deliver on aviation’s sustainability pledge to be carbon-neutral by 2050. In Europe, <a href="https://www.airbus.com/en" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Airbus</a> is designing radical wing configurations, including one that changes form to counter turbulence, while stateside, <a href="https://www.boeing.com/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Boeing</a> has partnered on NASA’s X-66A experimental plane that relies on trusses to support unusually long and slender wings. 



The&nbsp;<a href="https://www.airbus.com/en/newsroom/stories/2023-11-extra-performance-wing-demonstrator-takes-off" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Extra Performance Wing</a>&nbsp;that&nbsp;<a href="https://robbreport.com/tag/airbus/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Airbus</a>&nbsp;is developing “mimics a bird’s feathers and adjusts automatically to maximise aerodynamic flow,” says Sebastien Blanc, technical wing director for the project, part of the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.airbus.com/en/innovation/innovation-ecosystem/airbus-upnext" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Airbus UpNext programme</a>. Flight tests for the 165-foot-long shape-shifting wing will begin next year on a Cessna Citation VII jet. “Like a bird, it dynamically adapts to conditions, using active control technologies,” explains Blanc. And its folding wingtips, an ancillary design, will allow for increased performance while fitting into the constraints of the airport gates.&nbsp;



Thin, elongated wings are also integral to the X-66A, a Boeing concept that NASA greenlighted last year as part of its <a href="https://www.nasa.gov/directorates/armd/iasp/sfd/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Sustainable Flight Demonstrator</a> programme. Spearheading the US$1.15 billion (HK$8.9 billion) plan across a seven-year timeline, Boeing will modify an MD-90 aircraft by shortening the fuselage and mounting the engines under what it calls a Transonic Truss-Braced Wing, which, as the name implies, relies on a set of aerodynamic trusses.



“Our goal was to develop a more sustainable airplane that can replace current single-aisle aircraft,” says Brent Cobleigh, NASA’s X-66A project manager, adding that the latter account for nearly half of global flight emissions. “With advanced propulsion and lighter-weight materials, we think it will have a 30 per cent reduction in fuel burn.”&nbsp;



The industry’s goal to reach carbon neutrality in the next 26 years faces strong headwinds in cost alone. Yet with such out-of-the-box concepts being explored by some of the world’s biggest aerospace innovators, others may soon be motivated to earn their own sustainability wings.

Airbus

Airbus UpNext

Boeing

Extra Performance Wing

NASA

Sustainable Flight Demonstrator

X-66A

Airliners Are Trying Radical New Wing Designs to Improve Fuel-Efficiency

Close to 70 international and local galleries from around the world gathered at Pacifico Yokohama over the first weekend of July for the sophomore edition of <a href="https://tokyogendai.com/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Tokyo Gendai</a>.



From 5 to 7 July, collectors, artists, connoisseurs, gallerists, and art lovers from 40 countries and territories congregated to witness a diverse showcase of contemporary collections that featured the likes of Lois Weinberger, Roby Dwi Antono, Ozaki Satoru, Tsujimura Shiro, Ando Miya, and Robert Longo, whose new set of drawings, presented by Pace Gallery, was among the most expensive lots that found placement with buyers.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="1007" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Longo-Robert-Study-of-Split-Roaring-Tiger-2023-Ink-and-charcoal-on-vellum-1024x1007.jpeg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234789502" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Longo-Robert-Study-of-Split-Roaring-Tiger-2023-Ink-and-charcoal-on-vellum-1024x1007.jpeg 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Longo-Robert-Study-of-Split-Roaring-Tiger-2023-Ink-and-charcoal-on-vellum-300x295.jpeg 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Longo-Robert-Study-of-Split-Roaring-Tiger-2023-Ink-and-charcoal-on-vellum-768x755.jpeg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Longo-Robert-Study-of-Split-Roaring-Tiger-2023-Ink-and-charcoal-on-vellum-1536x1510.jpeg 1536w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Longo-Robert-Study-of-Split-Roaring-Tiger-2023-Ink-and-charcoal-on-vellum-2048x2014.jpeg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Robert Longo’s Study of Split Roaring Tiger was presented by Pace Gallery. Image courtesy of Robert Longo and Pace Gallery</figcaption></figure>



For its second year, the fair welcomed notable private collectors, museum directors, patrons, and curators, and even a few art-loving celebrities. Reporting robust sales, Tokyo Gendai 2024 marks an ambitious step forward in its bid to promote and expand the contemporary art market in the country. Local gallery A Lighthouse called Kanata secured sales for six seminal pieces, while a pair of works titled Waterfall on Colours by Senju Hiroshi went for US$570,000 (HK$4.44 million) and US$385,000 (HK$3 million). Trevor Shimizu’s Water and Branches (2) was sold by Misako &amp; Rosen for US$85,000 (HK$663,360).



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="683" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/許寧-Xu-Ning-Painting-Fairytale-2023.-Oil-on-canvas.-113.5-x-163.5cm.-Photo-by-Kenji-Takahashi.-Courtesy-of-Tomio-Koyama-Gallery-1024x683.jpeg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234789497" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/許寧-Xu-Ning-Painting-Fairytale-2023.-Oil-on-canvas.-113.5-x-163.5cm.-Photo-by-Kenji-Takahashi.-Courtesy-of-Tomio-Koyama-Gallery-1024x683.jpeg 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/許寧-Xu-Ning-Painting-Fairytale-2023.-Oil-on-canvas.-113.5-x-163.5cm.-Photo-by-Kenji-Takahashi.-Courtesy-of-Tomio-Koyama-Gallery-300x200.jpeg 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/許寧-Xu-Ning-Painting-Fairytale-2023.-Oil-on-canvas.-113.5-x-163.5cm.-Photo-by-Kenji-Takahashi.-Courtesy-of-Tomio-Koyama-Gallery-768x512.jpeg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/許寧-Xu-Ning-Painting-Fairytale-2023.-Oil-on-canvas.-113.5-x-163.5cm.-Photo-by-Kenji-Takahashi.-Courtesy-of-Tomio-Koyama-Gallery-1536x1024.jpeg 1536w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/許寧-Xu-Ning-Painting-Fairytale-2023.-Oil-on-canvas.-113.5-x-163.5cm.-Photo-by-Kenji-Takahashi.-Courtesy-of-Tomio-Koyama-Gallery-2048x1365.jpeg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Xu Ning’s 2023 Fairytale painting was one among several pieces that made up her sold-out show. Photo by Kenji Takahashi. Image courtesy of Tomio Koyama Gallery</figcaption></figure>



Blum fetched US$160,000 (HK$1.24 million) for a canvas by Okazaki Kenjiro. Beijist artist Xu Ning—featured in Tomio Koyama Gallery’s booth in the fair’s Hana section—experienced a sell-out show for her pieces. Both contemporary and traditional mediums found success with collectors during the fair, from large-scale works, tapestries, ceramics, and paintings to drawings, sculptures, and photography.



In addition to the fair sectors, Tokyo Gendai offered attendees the opportunity to participate in special VIP events, openings, and exhibitions, in collaboration with Artizon Museum, Mori Art Museum, the Tokyo National Museum, Kiyoharu Art Colony, Pola Art Museum, Enoura Observatory, and more to showcase Japan’s art scene.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="683" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Tokyo-Gendai-2024-3-1024x683.jpeg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234789498" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Tokyo-Gendai-2024-3-1024x683.jpeg 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Tokyo-Gendai-2024-3-300x200.jpeg 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Tokyo-Gendai-2024-3-768x512.jpeg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Tokyo-Gendai-2024-3-1536x1024.jpeg 1536w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Tokyo-Gendai-2024-3-2048x1365.jpeg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Yoshitomo Nara’s Puff Marshie on display, courtesy of Blum. Image courtesy of Tokyo Gendai</figcaption></figure>



Kojima Reiri, general manager of Tokyo Gendai, says, “It was incredible to feel the energy and enthusiasm from both returning and new visitors alike. While the art market in Japan is still growing, we were very encouraged to hear that visitors were delighted by the galleries’ presentations, as well as the public and VIP programmes that connected Japan’s many cultural institutions to the global art world.”



Similarly, co-founder Magnus Renfrew adds that “the second edition of Tokyo Gendai built on the solid foundations laid last year. We were thrilled by the response to the fair by both the Japanese art community and international collectors. Consensus is emerging that Japan has the potential to play a much bigger role in the global art market and we are honoured to be playing an important role in both putting the spotlight on the incredible art scene in Tokyo and connecting Japan to the global art world. We are excited to have secured new autumn dates that will allow the potential for greater participation from galleries, collectors, and international visitors.”



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="683" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Tokyo-Gendai-2024-7-1024x683.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234789499" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Tokyo-Gendai-2024-7-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Tokyo-Gendai-2024-7-300x200.jpg 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Tokyo-Gendai-2024-7-768x512.jpg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Tokyo-Gendai-2024-7-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Tokyo-Gendai-2024-7-2048x1365.jpg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Nan Ke Gallery’s booth featured Meng Zhou’s Mount Top sculpture. Image courtesy of Tokyo Gendai</figcaption></figure>



Following feedback from attendees and gallerists, the upcoming third edition of the Tokyo Gendai fair will return next year in autumn, with dates set for 12 to 14 September 2025, while the preview and vernissage will take place on 11 September 2025. Stay tuned for more information.

Japan

Tokyo Gendai

Tokyo Gendai 2024

Tokyo Gendai 2024 Concludes With Robust Sales and Sell-Out Shows, Counting Robert Longo Drawings Among Most Expensive Lots

Back with a bang, there was indeed&nbsp;Murder on the Dancefloor&nbsp;as Sophie Ellis-Bextor crooned at Rosewood Hong Kong on the eve of Art Basel Hong Kong. Artists, gallerists, and those in their circles braced themselves ahead of the biggest art event in the city this year. Indeed, the 11th iteration of Art Basel Hong Kong culminated in a strong turnout and significant sales.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="683" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/ab2-1024x683.jpg" alt="Abstract painting and sculptures at Art Basel Hong Kong." class="wp-image-1234786729" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/ab2-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/ab2-300x200.jpg 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/ab2-768x512.jpg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/ab2-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/ab2-2048x1365.jpg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Hauser &amp; Wirth. Image courtesy of Art Basel Hong Kong</figcaption></figure>



Starting off strong, Hauser &amp; Wirth stole the show by securing the most expensive reported sale, and on the first VIP day of the fair, no less. Willem de Kooning’s&nbsp;Untitled III&nbsp;(1986) sold for a whopping US$9 million (HK$70.4 million). However, the lithograph was not the only multi-million-dollar baby grabbed. Other significant sales included Philip Guston’s&nbsp;The Desire&nbsp;(1978), not far behind at US$8.5 million (HK$66.5 million). George Condo’s&nbsp;Constructed Female Portrait&nbsp;(2024), which sold for over US$2 million (HK$15.6 million). Lynne Drexler’s&nbsp;Plumed Bloom&nbsp;(1967) went for US$1.2 million (HK$9.3 million) at White Cube. Thaddaeus Ropac’s top lot was Tony Cragg’s&nbsp;Incident Solo&nbsp;(2023), sold for €725,000 (HK$6 million).&nbsp;



Mark Bradford’s return to Hong Kong was rewarding—May the Lord be the First One in the Car&#8230;and the Last Out&nbsp;(2023) sold for US$3.5 million (HK$27 million). Notably, Victoria Miro sold three ever-popular Yayoi Kusama pieces for a total of US$11 million (HK$86 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/2024/04/ab-3-1-1024x683.jpg" alt="A woman inspecting an abstract painting at Art Basel Hong Kong." class="wp-image-1234786736" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/ab-3-1-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/ab-3-1-300x200.jpg 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/ab-3-1-768x512.jpg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/ab-3-1-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/ab-3-1-2048x1365.jpg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Gajah Gallery. Image courtesy of Art Basel Hong Kong</figcaption></figure>



Reports indicate that 75,000 visitors attended Art Basel Hong Kong this year (compared to 86,000 in 2023 and 88,000 in 2019). Not exactly pre-pandemic numbers, but&nbsp;Guernica&nbsp;wasn’t painted in a day, and the coming years can only see a rise in interest, numbers, and relevance.



<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/2024/04/Print_approx_21_x_14_cm_ABHK24__Public_Interactions__Galleries__N-2-1024x683.jpg" alt="Man viewing sculptural artwork on the wall." class="wp-image-1234786733" style="width:650px;height:auto" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Print_approx_21_x_14_cm_ABHK24__Public_Interactions__Galleries__N-2-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Print_approx_21_x_14_cm_ABHK24__Public_Interactions__Galleries__N-2-300x200.jpg 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Print_approx_21_x_14_cm_ABHK24__Public_Interactions__Galleries__N-2-768x512.jpg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Print_approx_21_x_14_cm_ABHK24__Public_Interactions__Galleries__N-2-1536x1025.jpg 1536w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Print_approx_21_x_14_cm_ABHK24__Public_Interactions__Galleries__N-2-2048x1366.jpg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Nanzuka. Image courtesy of Art Basel Hong Kong</figcaption></figure>



“Art Basel Hong Kong returned to its full scale and spirit this edition, with the city opening its doors to visitors from all around the world once again,” said Angelle Siyang-Le, who directed Art Basel Hong Kong for the second year in a row, in an official statement. “I am deeply grateful to all the galleries, artists, patrons, institutional representatives, and cultural partners whose collaboration delivered a show of world-class range and quality in our home in Hong Kong.”



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="683" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Print_approx_21_x_14_cm_ABHK24__Public_Interactions__Galleries__J-1-1024x683.jpg" alt="Two visitors viewing hyperrealistic artworks at Art Basel Hong Kong." class="wp-image-1234786735" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Print_approx_21_x_14_cm_ABHK24__Public_Interactions__Galleries__J-1-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Print_approx_21_x_14_cm_ABHK24__Public_Interactions__Galleries__J-1-300x200.jpg 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Print_approx_21_x_14_cm_ABHK24__Public_Interactions__Galleries__J-1-768x512.jpg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Print_approx_21_x_14_cm_ABHK24__Public_Interactions__Galleries__J-1-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Print_approx_21_x_14_cm_ABHK24__Public_Interactions__Galleries__J-1-2048x1365.jpg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Johyun Gallery. Image courtesy of Art Basel Hong Kong</figcaption></figure>



“This edition reflected the city itself to the world: utterly alive and teeming with energy, a meeting place of tradition and the avant-garde, a port of cultures and an essential bridge in the evolving art landscape across regions. Art Basel Hong Kong continues to be a vital anchor in Asia’s ever-growing local art scenes and a key moment in the global art trade calendar.”



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="683" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Print_approx_21_x_14_cm_ABHK24__Public_Interactions__Galleries__T-9-1024x683.jpg" alt="Woman viewing sculpture at Art Basel Hong Kong." class="wp-image-1234786740" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Print_approx_21_x_14_cm_ABHK24__Public_Interactions__Galleries__T-9-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Print_approx_21_x_14_cm_ABHK24__Public_Interactions__Galleries__T-9-300x200.jpg 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Print_approx_21_x_14_cm_ABHK24__Public_Interactions__Galleries__T-9-768x512.jpg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Print_approx_21_x_14_cm_ABHK24__Public_Interactions__Galleries__T-9-1536x1025.jpg 1536w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Print_approx_21_x_14_cm_ABHK24__Public_Interactions__Galleries__T-9-2048x1366.jpg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Tina Keng Gallery. Image courtesy of Art Basel Hong Kong</figcaption></figure>



Meanwhile, as the curtains close on the 2024 edition of Art Basel Hong Kong, there’s already welcome news in anticipation of next year’s fair. From 2025 onwards, MGM will present a prize for emerging artists under the&nbsp;Discoveries umbrella, Art Basel Hong Kong’s sector for solo presentations by newcomers. The MGM Discoveries Art Prize is designed to foster emerging artists and encourage new talent. Further details will be released later this year.&nbsp;



Until then, watch this space.



<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="936" data-id="1234786750" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/ab-6464-1024x936.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234786750" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/ab-6464-1024x936.jpg 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/ab-6464-300x274.jpg 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/ab-6464-768x702.jpg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/ab-6464-1536x1404.jpg 1536w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/ab-6464.jpg 1751w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="819" height="1024" data-id="1234786752" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/ab-33432-819x1024.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234786752" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/ab-33432-819x1024.jpg 819w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/ab-33432-240x300.jpg 240w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/ab-33432-768x961.jpg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/ab-33432-1228x1536.jpg 1228w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/ab-33432.jpg 1279w" sizes="(max-width: 819px) 100vw, 819px" /></figure>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="768" height="1024" data-id="1234786748" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/432990919_10160935823000236_7008708577744902109_n-768x1024.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234786748" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/432990919_10160935823000236_7008708577744902109_n-768x1024.jpg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/432990919_10160935823000236_7008708577744902109_n-225x300.jpg 225w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/432990919_10160935823000236_7008708577744902109_n-1152x1536.jpg 1152w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/432990919_10160935823000236_7008708577744902109_n.jpg 1536w" sizes="(max-width: 768px) 100vw, 768px" /></figure>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="768" height="1024" data-id="1234786749" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/433462328_10160935822795236_8838527503891715869_n-768x1024.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234786749" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/433462328_10160935822795236_8838527503891715869_n-768x1024.jpg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/433462328_10160935822795236_8838527503891715869_n-225x300.jpg 225w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/433462328_10160935822795236_8838527503891715869_n-1152x1536.jpg 1152w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/433462328_10160935822795236_8838527503891715869_n.jpg 1536w" sizes="(max-width: 768px) 100vw, 768px" /></figure>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="768" height="1024" data-id="1234786747" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/433446707_10160935822080236_3556863214230648387_n-768x1024.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234786747" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/433446707_10160935822080236_3556863214230648387_n-768x1024.jpg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/433446707_10160935822080236_3556863214230648387_n-225x300.jpg 225w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/433446707_10160935822080236_3556863214230648387_n-1152x1536.jpg 1152w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/433446707_10160935822080236_3556863214230648387_n.jpg 1536w" sizes="(max-width: 768px) 100vw, 768px" /></figure>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="768" height="1024" data-id="1234786751" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/433443002_10160935822575236_3361489241671448162_n-768x1024.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234786751" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/433443002_10160935822575236_3361489241671448162_n-768x1024.jpg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/433443002_10160935822575236_3361489241671448162_n-225x300.jpg 225w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/433443002_10160935822575236_3361489241671448162_n-1152x1536.jpg 1152w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/433443002_10160935822575236_3361489241671448162_n.jpg 1200w" sizes="(max-width: 768px) 100vw, 768px" /></figure>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="768" height="1024" data-id="1234786754" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/433016293_10160935822370236_106653004018130502_n-768x1024.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234786754" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/433016293_10160935822370236_106653004018130502_n-768x1024.jpg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/433016293_10160935822370236_106653004018130502_n-225x300.jpg 225w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/433016293_10160935822370236_106653004018130502_n-1152x1536.jpg 1152w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/433016293_10160935822370236_106653004018130502_n.jpg 1200w" sizes="(max-width: 768px) 100vw, 768px" /></figure>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="876" height="1024" data-id="1234786757" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/432987686_10160935821290236_1470229988291370999_n-876x1024.jpeg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234786757" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/432987686_10160935821290236_1470229988291370999_n-876x1024.jpeg 876w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/432987686_10160935821290236_1470229988291370999_n-257x300.jpeg 257w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/432987686_10160935821290236_1470229988291370999_n-768x898.jpeg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/432987686_10160935821290236_1470229988291370999_n-1314x1536.jpeg 1314w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/432987686_10160935821290236_1470229988291370999_n.jpeg 1369w" sizes="(max-width: 876px) 100vw, 876px" /></figure>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="681" data-id="1234786758" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/433269105_10160935823215236_2810702356681753649_n-1024x681.jpeg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234786758" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/433269105_10160935823215236_2810702356681753649_n-1024x681.jpeg 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/433269105_10160935823215236_2810702356681753649_n-300x200.jpeg 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/433269105_10160935823215236_2810702356681753649_n-768x511.jpeg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/433269105_10160935823215236_2810702356681753649_n-1536x1022.jpeg 1536w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/433269105_10160935823215236_2810702356681753649_n-2048x1363.jpeg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="768" data-id="1234786759" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/433444136_10160935823150236_1350942969073024751_n-1024x768.jpeg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234786759" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/433444136_10160935823150236_1350942969073024751_n-1024x768.jpeg 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/433444136_10160935823150236_1350942969073024751_n-300x225.jpeg 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/433444136_10160935823150236_1350942969073024751_n-768x576.jpeg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/433444136_10160935823150236_1350942969073024751_n-1536x1152.jpeg 1536w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/433444136_10160935823150236_1350942969073024751_n-2048x1536.jpeg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="768" height="1024" data-id="1234786760" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/433469142_10160935823080236_5813328710347989558_n-768x1024.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234786760" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/433469142_10160935823080236_5813328710347989558_n-768x1024.jpg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/433469142_10160935823080236_5813328710347989558_n-225x300.jpg 225w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/433469142_10160935823080236_5813328710347989558_n-1152x1536.jpg 1152w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/433469142_10160935823080236_5813328710347989558_n.jpg 1200w" sizes="(max-width: 768px) 100vw, 768px" /></figure>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="683" data-id="1234786761" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/433446098_10160935821370236_6942535374267799173_n-1-1024x683.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234786761" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/433446098_10160935821370236_6942535374267799173_n-1-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/433446098_10160935821370236_6942535374267799173_n-1-300x200.jpg 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/433446098_10160935821370236_6942535374267799173_n-1-768x512.jpg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/433446098_10160935821370236_6942535374267799173_n-1-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/433446098_10160935821370236_6942535374267799173_n-1-2048x1365.jpg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>
</figure>



Above images courtesy of P. Ramakrishnan.

Art Basel

Art Basel 2024

Art Basel Hong Kong

Art Basel Hong Kong 2024

Art Fair

Art Market

Art Sales

Hong Kong

Art Basel Hong Kong 2024 Closes to Strong Sales, With Willem de Kooning Artwork as Most Expensive Lot

The world’s largest dinosaur skeleton ever offered at auction is set to sell for a fittingly large sum this coming winter.



The Apatosaurus specimen, known as “Vulcain,” is expected to fetch between US$3.3 million and US$5.4 million (HK$25.7 and HK$42.1 million) at Parisian auction houses <a href="https://collindubocage.com/en/home" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Collin Du Bocage</a> and <a href="https://www.barbarossa-auction.com/en/home" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Barbarossa</a> in November.



Vulcain measures roughly 69 feet from tip to tail and has a bone structure that is more than 80 per cent complete. The giant herbivore, which is around 150 million years old, was discovered in the palaeontology hotspot of Wyoming in 2018. It required three years of excavation to get the bones to the surface. The GPS point, excavation plan, and osteological map will be sold with the skeleton.



<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/2024/07/Vulcain-side-683x1024.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234789439" style="width:840px;height:auto" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Vulcain-side-683x1024.jpg 683w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Vulcain-side-200x300.jpg 200w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Vulcain-side-768x1152.jpg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Vulcain-side-1024x1536.jpg 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Vulcain-side-1365x2048.jpg 1365w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Vulcain-side.jpg 1600w" sizes="(max-width: 683px) 100vw, 683px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Vulcain and expert Eric Mickeler. Image courtesy of Antione Pascal</figcaption></figure>



The Apatosaurus is remarkably similar to the Brontosaurus. The skeletons of both dinosaurs were discovered around the same time in the late 1800s and named by O.C. Marsh. Fast-forward a few years, American palaeontologist Elmer Riggs argued in a 1903 publication that the two dinosaurs were not different enough for separate monikers. As the Apatosaurus had been christened first, the Brontosaurus adopted that name. Many modern palaeontologists believe the dinosaurs deserve individual titles because of subtle differences.



The sauropod family to which these dinosaurs belonged lived in North America, Europe, and parts of Africa during the late Jurassic period (between 145 million and 160 million years ago). The American Museum of Natural History’s&nbsp;<a href="https://www.amnh.org/exhibitions/permanent/saurischian-dinosaurs/apatosaurus" rel="noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">Apatosaurus</a>&nbsp;was the first sauropod ever mounted and went on view in 1905. It has been a focal point of the collection ever since.



<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/2024/07/Vulcain-skull-683x1024.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234789438" style="width:840px;height:auto" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Vulcain-skull-683x1024.jpg 683w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Vulcain-skull-200x300.jpg 200w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Vulcain-skull-768x1152.jpg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Vulcain-skull-1024x1536.jpg 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Vulcain-skull.jpg 1200w" sizes="(max-width: 683px) 100vw, 683px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Vulcain’s skull. Image courtesy of Antione Pascal</figcaption></figure>



This particular Apatosaurus will be displayed at Dampierre castle in Dampierre-en-Yvelines, France from 13 July until 3 November, before it is auctioned off on 16 November. Eric Mickeler, who has sold a range of dinosaur skeletons at Christie’s, Sotheby’s, and Aguttes over the past 20 years, has been appointed the expert of Vulcain.



Despite <a href="https://robbreport.com/lifestyle/news/sothebys-gorgosaurus-dinosaur-auction-1234731879/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">some criticism</a> from the scientific community, dinosaur skeletons have become <a href="https://robbreport.com/shelter/art-collectibles/buying-t-rex-fossil-for-home-1234865826/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">highly collectible</a> and prices for specimens have increased significantly over the past 25 years. For example, <a href="https://www.nytimes.com/1997/10/05/nyregion/tyrannosaur-skeleton-is-sold-to-a-museum-for-8.36-million.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Tyrannosaurus rex “Sue” </a>achieved US$8.4 million (HK$65.6 million) at Sotheby’s in 1997, while fellow <a href="https://robbreport.com/lifestyle/news/christies-auctions-t-rex-skeleton-32-million-1234573484/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">T.rex Stan</a> realised a record US$31.8 million (HK$248.3 million) at Christie’s in 2020. That makes US$5 million (HK$39 million) sound like a bargain.

Auction

Castle

dinosaur

Dinosaur Fossil

france

Vulcain

This Dinosaur Skeleton Is One of the World’s Largest. It Could Fetch Up to HK$42.1 Million at Auction.

The Hong Kong Philharmonic Orchestra (HK Phil) held its 50th anniversary gala dinner at Regent Hong Kong in the presence of musicians, society, celebrity, and government officials. The landmark year for the musicians was marked with great celebrations, an auction, and fabulous live performances that were a prelude to upcoming concerts. 



Eric Chan Kwok-ki, chief secretary for administration of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR), was the guest of honour among innumerable VIP guests (over 400, in fact) as many turned up in black-tie, gown, and glory regalia to raise funds for Hong Kong’s most celebrated musicians and global talents, who’ve provided grand orchestral shows locally and in international concert venues.



Noted hotelier Winnie Chiu, president and executive director of Dorsett Hospitality International and the chairman of Agora Hospitality Group, chaired the fundraising gala this year. A former member of the HK Phil’s board of governors, Chiu has been deeply involved with the group for years now, honouring the homegrown and internationally acclaimed orchestra. 



<figure class="wp-block-gallery has-nested-images columns-default is-cropped wp-block-gallery-1 is-layout-flex wp-block-gallery-is-layout-flex">
<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="683" data-id="1234789195" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/dsc_4006-2-1024x683.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234789195" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/dsc_4006-2-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/dsc_4006-2-300x200.jpg 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/dsc_4006-2-768x512.jpg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/dsc_4006-2-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/dsc_4006-2-2048x1365.jpg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">HK Phil Concertmaster Jing Wang</figcaption></figure>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="683" height="1024" data-id="1234789196" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/t3_00753-2-683x1024.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234789196" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/t3_00753-2-683x1024.jpg 683w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/t3_00753-2-200x300.jpg 200w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/t3_00753-2-768x1152.jpg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/t3_00753-2-1024x1536.jpg 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/t3_00753-2.jpg 1067w" sizes="(max-width: 683px) 100vw, 683px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">HK Phil Principal Cello Richard Bamping</figcaption></figure>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="720" height="480" data-id="1234789194" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/t3_00512_720.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234789194" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/t3_00512_720.jpg 720w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/t3_00512_720-300x200.jpg 300w" sizes="(max-width: 720px) 100vw, 720px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">HK Phil Music Director Maestro Jaap van Zweden</figcaption></figure>
</figure>



There were several memorable live performances during the gala dinner, melodious interludes between the multiple courses from the famed kitchens of Regent Hong Kong. Of the many highlights of the night, several moments stand out, including soprano Jennifer Holloway and pianist Jan-Paul Grijpink performing Senta’s Ballad from The Flying Dutchman, and concertmaster Jing Wang with guest pianist Colleen Lee, principal violist Andrew Ling, and principal cellist Richard Bamping performing Brahms’ Piano Quartet No. 1 in G minor. Every performance was a constant reminder that the orchestra’s artistic excellence is second to none. 



Music director maestro Jaap van Zweden hit the stage to share his 12-year journey with the HK Phil before zooming back to the rehearsal halls, as the orchestra was preparing for some of the biggest shows of the year. A welcome surprise, John Lee, chief executive of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR), sent a video message to congratulate the HK Phil for its 50th anniversary. 



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="683" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/dsc_3620-1024x683.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234789202" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/dsc_3620-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/dsc_3620-300x200.jpg 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/dsc_3620-768x512.jpg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/dsc_3620-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/dsc_3620-2048x1365.jpg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">John Lee addresses the guests</figcaption></figure>



The evening ended with a heart-racing auction where funds were raised to support the orchestra’s extensive education and community outreach programmes. The fundraising and generosity of spirt not only honoured 50 years of the philharmonic’s past, but ensuring that, for the next 50 years, the musical legacy of the famed institution would continue well into the future.



<figure class="wp-block-gallery has-nested-images columns-default is-cropped wp-block-gallery-2 is-layout-flex wp-block-gallery-is-layout-flex">
<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="682" data-id="1234789311" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/0N7A0200-Large-1-1024x682.jpeg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234789311" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/0N7A0200-Large-1-1024x682.jpeg 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/0N7A0200-Large-1-300x200.jpeg 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/0N7A0200-Large-1-768x512.jpeg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/0N7A0200-Large-1.jpeg 1280w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="682" data-id="1234789313" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/0N7A9173-Large-1-1024x682.jpeg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234789313" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/0N7A9173-Large-1-1024x682.jpeg 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/0N7A9173-Large-1-300x200.jpeg 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/0N7A9173-Large-1-768x512.jpeg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/0N7A9173-Large-1.jpeg 1280w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="682" data-id="1234789316" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/0N7A9293-Large-1-1024x682.jpeg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234789316" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/0N7A9293-Large-1-1024x682.jpeg 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/0N7A9293-Large-1-300x200.jpeg 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/0N7A9293-Large-1-768x512.jpeg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/0N7A9293-Large-1.jpeg 1280w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="682" data-id="1234789312" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/0N7A9412-Large-1-1024x682.jpeg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234789312" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/0N7A9412-Large-1-1024x682.jpeg 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/0N7A9412-Large-1-300x200.jpeg 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/0N7A9412-Large-1-768x512.jpeg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/0N7A9412-Large-1.jpeg 1280w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="682" data-id="1234789323" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/T3_00791-Large-1-1024x682.jpeg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234789323" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/T3_00791-Large-1-1024x682.jpeg 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/T3_00791-Large-1-300x200.jpeg 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/T3_00791-Large-1-768x512.jpeg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/T3_00791-Large-1.jpeg 1280w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="682" data-id="1234789314" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/0N7A9521-Large-1-1024x682.jpeg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234789314" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/0N7A9521-Large-1-1024x682.jpeg 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/0N7A9521-Large-1-300x200.jpeg 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/0N7A9521-Large-1-768x512.jpeg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/0N7A9521-Large-1.jpeg 1280w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="682" data-id="1234789315" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/0N7A9556-Large-1-1024x682.jpeg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234789315" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/0N7A9556-Large-1-1024x682.jpeg 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/0N7A9556-Large-1-300x200.jpeg 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/0N7A9556-Large-1-768x512.jpeg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/0N7A9556-Large-1.jpeg 1280w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="682" data-id="1234789317" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/0N7A9589-Large-1-1024x682.jpeg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234789317" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/0N7A9589-Large-1-1024x682.jpeg 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/0N7A9589-Large-1-300x200.jpeg 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/0N7A9589-Large-1-768x512.jpeg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/0N7A9589-Large-1.jpeg 1280w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="682" data-id="1234789321" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Phil50_0463-Large-1-1024x682.jpeg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234789321" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Phil50_0463-Large-1-1024x682.jpeg 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Phil50_0463-Large-1-300x200.jpeg 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Phil50_0463-Large-1-768x512.jpeg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Phil50_0463-Large-1.jpeg 1280w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="682" data-id="1234789319" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/0N7A9640-Large-1-1024x682.jpeg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234789319" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/0N7A9640-Large-1-1024x682.jpeg 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/0N7A9640-Large-1-300x200.jpeg 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/0N7A9640-Large-1-768x512.jpeg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/0N7A9640-Large-1.jpeg 1280w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="682" data-id="1234789318" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/HKPhil50th-156-Large-1-1024x682.jpeg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234789318" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/HKPhil50th-156-Large-1-1024x682.jpeg 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/HKPhil50th-156-Large-1-300x200.jpeg 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/HKPhil50th-156-Large-1-768x512.jpeg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/HKPhil50th-156-Large-1.jpeg 1280w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="682" data-id="1234789320" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/HKPhil50th-205-Large-1-1024x682.jpeg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234789320" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/HKPhil50th-205-Large-1-1024x682.jpeg 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/HKPhil50th-205-Large-1-300x200.jpeg 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/HKPhil50th-205-Large-1-768x512.jpeg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/HKPhil50th-205-Large-1.jpeg 1280w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="682" data-id="1234789322" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/T_0321-Large-1-1024x682.jpeg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234789322" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/T_0321-Large-1-1024x682.jpeg 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/T_0321-Large-1-300x200.jpeg 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/T_0321-Large-1-768x512.jpeg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/T_0321-Large-1.jpeg 1280w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>
</figure>

The Hong Kong Philharmonic Orchestra’s Golden Celebrations: 50 Fabulous Years and A Night to Remember

In a galaxy not so far, far away, you have the chance to own some sci-fi history.



Several items featured in the <a href="https://robbreport.com/shelter/art-collectibles/boba-fett-most-valuable-vintage-toy-1235638976/"></a><a href="https://robbreport.com/tag/star-wars/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Star Wars</a> films are coming to auction this month during Heritage <a href="https://robbreport.com/tag/auctions/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Auctions</a>’ <a href="https://entertainment.ha.com/c/search/results.zx?si=2&amp;dept=2182&amp;live_state=5318%7E5319%7E5320%7E5321%7E5324&amp;auction_name=7361&amp;mode=live&amp;page=48%7E1&amp;sb=3&amp;ic4=SortBy-071515" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Hollywood/Entertainment Signature sale</a>, taking place 25 and 26 July. The leading lot is a Y-wing starfighter miniature that’s set to achieve at least US$300,000 (HK$2.3 million).



“As Heritage has done time and again, we’re bringing together some of the most important cultural artefacts that have never before been in single place,” Joe Maddalena, the executive vice president of the auction house, said in a statement. “When you do that, you immediately, instinctively recognise the importance and influence of these science-fiction films and television shows—how they’ve shaped how we look at and think about the world and beyond.”



The starfighter, one of the ships that helps destroy the Death Star in the original Star Wars movie, was designed by the modelmaker Colin Cantwell, one of the first artists hired by the director George Lucas to work on the film. Cantwell’s Y-wing was possibly the first concept model approved by Lucas, and the one on offer this month was one of just two hero models meant to be seen up close. A similar screen-matched X-wing starfighter hammered down for a whopping US$3.1 million (HK$24.2 million) last year.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Star-Wars-Auction-Bikini-1024x576.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234789235" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Star-Wars-Auction-Bikini-1024x576.webp 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Star-Wars-Auction-Bikini-300x169.webp 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Star-Wars-Auction-Bikini-768x432.webp 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Star-Wars-Auction-Bikini.webp 1200w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">The Princess Leia bikini from Star Wars. Image courtesy of Heritage Auctions</figcaption></figure>



Elsewhere, one of the series’ most iconic costumes is highlighted in the Heritage auction: the metal bikini that Princess Leia wears when she’s Jabba the Hutt’s slave in&nbsp;Return of the Jedi. The much-debated outfit, made of resin and urethane, was called out by Carrie Fisher, who originated the role of Princess Leia. She and others saw it as a skimpy look that played into the male gaze—not to mention that the bikini was uncomfortable to wear. Still, the bikini has become widely associated with&nbsp;Star Wars, and makes regular appearances as a Halloween costume year after year.



While the auction is a feast for Star Wars fans, Trekkies won’t be disappointed either. Many items <a href="https://robbreport.com/shelter/art-collectibles/slideshow/most-expensive-star-trek-memorabilia-ever-sold-auction/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">associated with </a><a href="https://robbreport.com/tag/star-trek/">Star Trek</a> are also up for grabs, including a USS Excelsior miniature, a 5.5-foot-long version of the USS Enterprise, and original artwork created for the series. So, may the force be with you—where no man has gone before.

Star Wars

Starfighter

Red Five, Standing By: This Rare ‘Star Wars’ Starfighter Miniature Could Fetch an Otherworldly Sum at Auction

Multi-hyphenate Renaissance man <a href="https://www.sldgroup.com/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Steve Leung</a> needs little introduction. Be it his <a href="https://robbreport.hk/posts/a-hong-kong-design-firm-is-transforming-yachts-into-floating-villas" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">super yachts</a>, <a href="https://robbreport.hk/posts/inside-designer-steve-leungs-dream-home-a-niseko-holiday-chalet-bathed-in-natural-light" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">vacation homes</a>, <a href="https://robbreport.hk/posts/a-new-two-storey-private-club-is-coming-to-central-in-february-2023" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">interior designs</a>, and collaborations, Leung’s prolific portfolio has been featured on Robb Report Hong Kong time and again. Adding one more arrow to his quiver, the famed architect and designer has just unveiled his latest design in collaboration with crystal-maker <a href="https://www.baccarat.com/en_hk" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Baccarat</a>: the Printemps Bleu Zenith Chandelier, a grand lighting fixture.



Baccarat and Leung’s Printemps Bleu—literarily “blue spring” in French—chandelier is a breathtaking and exquisite piece. Featuring crystals cut with precision and chinoiserie artwork meticulously painted on fine porcelain, it’s a nod to the heritage of both East and West. It’s a phenomenal achievement, tying in two disparate cultures united through refined craftsmanship and brave innovation. As the head of design of his eponymous label, Steve Leung Design Group (SLD), Leung is the first Chinese designer to collaborate with Baccarat. One hopes Leung’s collaboration with the famed French luxury house paves the way for more cross-cultural design endeavours, as this first iteration is a piece of art.



<figure class="wp-block-gallery has-nested-images columns-default is-cropped wp-block-gallery-2 is-layout-flex wp-block-gallery-is-layout-flex">
<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="768" height="1024" data-id="1234789372" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Printemps-Bleu-Zenith-Chandelier-6-768x1024.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234789372" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Printemps-Bleu-Zenith-Chandelier-6-768x1024.jpg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Printemps-Bleu-Zenith-Chandelier-6-225x300.jpg 225w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Printemps-Bleu-Zenith-Chandelier-6-1152x1536.jpg 1152w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Printemps-Bleu-Zenith-Chandelier-6.jpg 1200w" sizes="(max-width: 768px) 100vw, 768px" /></figure>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="768" height="1024" data-id="1234789373" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Printemps-Bleu-Zenith-Chandelier-3-1-768x1024.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234789373" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Printemps-Bleu-Zenith-Chandelier-3-1-768x1024.jpg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Printemps-Bleu-Zenith-Chandelier-3-1-225x300.jpg 225w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Printemps-Bleu-Zenith-Chandelier-3-1-1152x1536.jpg 1152w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Printemps-Bleu-Zenith-Chandelier-3-1.jpg 1200w" sizes="(max-width: 768px) 100vw, 768px" /></figure>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="768" height="1024" data-id="1234789374" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Printemps-Bleu-Zenith-Chandelier-7-768x1024.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234789374" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Printemps-Bleu-Zenith-Chandelier-7-768x1024.jpg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Printemps-Bleu-Zenith-Chandelier-7-225x300.jpg 225w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Printemps-Bleu-Zenith-Chandelier-7-1152x1536.jpg 1152w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Printemps-Bleu-Zenith-Chandelier-7.jpg 1200w" sizes="(max-width: 768px) 100vw, 768px" /></figure>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="768" height="1024" data-id="1234789376" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Printemps-Bleu-Zenith-Chandelier-4-768x1024.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234789376" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Printemps-Bleu-Zenith-Chandelier-4-768x1024.jpg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Printemps-Bleu-Zenith-Chandelier-4-225x300.jpg 225w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Printemps-Bleu-Zenith-Chandelier-4-1152x1536.jpg 1152w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Printemps-Bleu-Zenith-Chandelier-4.jpg 1200w" sizes="(max-width: 768px) 100vw, 768px" /></figure>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="768" height="1024" data-id="1234789375" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Printemps-Bleu-Zenith-Chandelier-5-768x1024.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234789375" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Printemps-Bleu-Zenith-Chandelier-5-768x1024.jpg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Printemps-Bleu-Zenith-Chandelier-5-225x300.jpg 225w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Printemps-Bleu-Zenith-Chandelier-5-1152x1536.jpg 1152w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Printemps-Bleu-Zenith-Chandelier-5.jpg 1200w" sizes="(max-width: 768px) 100vw, 768px" /></figure>
</figure>



For discerning collectors and connoisseurs of luxury décor, the Printemps Bleu Zenith Chandelier intertwines the Limoges porcelain cupel, baluster, and bowl with Baccarat’s cascading clear and cobalt-blue crystals. “I was profoundly impressed by the sheer professionalism and resourcefulness displayed by the R&amp;D team and seasoned artisans at Baccarat,” says Hester Lau, the design director working along Leung. Despite working from different continents, both Leung and Baccarat’s diligent artisans worked in perfect unison.



The grand mélange of Chinese sensibilities and historic French elegance on Printemps Bleu is one for the books. The contrasts between crystal and porcelain, blue and white, and transparency and opacity mirror the duality of Eastern and Western design philosophies that have come together harmoniously to craft this artefact. The swallows, butterflies, and floral motifs are an ode to the awakening of nature come springtime.



“Our collaboration celebrates Baccarat’s 260th anniversary in 2024. Since its establishment in 1764, Baccarat has always been recognised for its exceptional quality, craftsmanship, and timeless designs,” says Leung. “Today, Baccarat remains a pristine symbol of luxury and elegance. It is our honour to delve into its esteemed history of luxury legacy. Both our countries have a long-standing appreciation for art and literature. I believe this collaboration is the perfect way to celebrate our countries’ mutual understanding and appreciation of each other’s heritage and creativity, especially on the 60th anniversary of Sino-French friendship. I am thrilled to embark on a design journey with the talented team at Baccarat during such a milestone historical moment.”



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="683" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Printemps-Bleu-Zenith-Chandelier-2-1024x683.jpeg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234789371" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Printemps-Bleu-Zenith-Chandelier-2-1024x683.jpeg 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Printemps-Bleu-Zenith-Chandelier-2-300x200.jpeg 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Printemps-Bleu-Zenith-Chandelier-2-768x512.jpeg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Printemps-Bleu-Zenith-Chandelier-2-1536x1024.jpeg 1536w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Printemps-Bleu-Zenith-Chandelier-2-2048x1365.jpeg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>



Leung took inspiration from&nbsp;qinghua ci,&nbsp;China’s iconic blue-and-white porcelain, a notable trope that can be traced back to the early 16th century. He also dug into the archives of Baccarat for inspiration to create Printemps Bleu. It’s not the first time the Chinese motif has found its way to Baccarat. Back in 1878, the Chinese imperial authority made its debut at the Exposition Universelle in Paris and presented&nbsp;qinghua ci&nbsp;among other fine crafts. It caught the eye of a certain French luxury brand, which then imbued creations with similar patterns.&nbsp;



Leung is the latest designer who joins a gilded roster of internationally renowned names who have collaborated with Baccarat to reinterpret the Zenith range of chandeliers, including Philippe Starck, Marcel Wanders, Arik Levy, Louise Campbell, and Jaime Hayon.



Steve Leung’s limited edition—60 pieces only—is available for viewing now in Asia and will be launched worldwide in 2025.



All images courtesy of Steve Leung Design Group (SLD) and Baccarat.

Baccarat

Chandelier

Chinese

collab

Designer Collab

Hong Kong designer

Steve Leung

Baccarat and Hong Kong Designer Steve Leung Have Teamed Up to Create an Exquisite Chandelier

This story is part of a series of features covering MGM x RR1HK Culinary Masters Macau 2024, hosted at MGM COTAI in Macau on 28–30 June 2024.&nbsp;



Over the course of three days and two nights, MGM x RR1HK Culinary Masters Macau 2024 was&nbsp;the&nbsp;place to be for a thrilling programme of gastronomic, artistic, and cultural activities designed to entice, entertain, and enlighten local and international VIP guests, but the work for the dining extravaganza began months ago to ensure that this RR1 Signature Event was one for the ages. At the final curtain call for this year’s Culinary Masters in Macau, nearly 150 people took to the stage to take their bow—a defining moment in the history of gastronomic events held in the region.



A historic event to mark another, the theme “Savor 700 Years of Silk Road Flavors: A Gastronomic Odyssey” was on the mind of all participants in front and behind the scenes. Celebrating the 25th anniversary of the establishment of the Macau Special Administrative Region and the 75th anniversary of the founding of the People’s Republic of China, the occasion coincided with the 700 years since the passing of the renowned Silk Road explorer Marco Polo, and marking the rich legacy of the intrepid explorer in a timely and apt way was always on the cards. Macau provided the perfect backdrop with its East-meets-West history, and to show that on a plate courtesy of six incredible chefs was ingenious.&nbsp;



MGM x RR1HK Culinary Masters Macau 2024 featured a festival of tastes and international cuisines, arts, and cultural activities. Looking back on the eventful long weekend, so many memories stand out, so here’s a quick recap of the highlights. &nbsp;



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="683" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/WAU_1000-1024x683.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234789092" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/WAU_1000-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/WAU_1000-300x200.jpg 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/WAU_1000-768x512.jpg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/WAU_1000-1536x1025.jpg 1536w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/WAU_1000-2048x1366.jpg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Four female Culinary Masters address students of Macau.</figcaption></figure>



It all began early on a Friday morning when Thai chef Chudaree “Tam” Debhakam demonstrated the preparation of her signature dish, Dong Dang, an elevated version of Northeastern Thai noodles with a modern touch, to culinary students from Macau. Chef Sara Aqel followed suit as she flew down from Jordan and, without a hint of jet lag, jumped into the kitchen and shared her insights on the versatile uses of olive oil through her own cooking show as students watched and listened with rapt attention.



<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/2024/07/WAU_0344-1024x683.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234789105" style="width:840px;height:auto" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/WAU_0344-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/WAU_0344-300x200.jpg 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/WAU_0344-768x512.jpg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/WAU_0344-1536x1025.jpg 1536w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/WAU_0344-2048x1366.jpg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Chudaree “Tam” Debhakam demonstrates her take on Thai noodles.</figcaption></figure>



After the cooking demonstration, girl power stormed the stage to talk at length about “Exploring the Culinary Journeys of Trailblazing Women: From the Silk Roads to Global Gastronomy.” Out of our six Culinary Masters, four award-winning local and international female chefs—including two-Michelin-star-studded Garima Arora of Indian restaurant Gaa; Chudaree “Tam” Debhakam of Baan Tepa in Bangkok, the first female Thai chef to win two Michelin stars; Sara Aqel, who heads up Dara Dining in Jordan; and Florita Morais Alves, the renowned ambassador of Macanese cuisine and proprietor of La Famiglia—led a free-wheeling chat about the role women play in contemporary kitchens.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="692" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/img_w4r34-1024x692.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234789130" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/img_w4r34-1024x692.jpg 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/img_w4r34-300x203.jpg 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/img_w4r34-768x519.jpg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/img_w4r34-1536x1039.jpg 1536w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/img_w4r34-2048x1385.jpg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>



Our first evening was set aside for chefs and guests to unwind with cocktails and a buffet dinner as all Culinary Masters, VIP attendees, and RR1 HK members gathered at The Mansion for a welcome dinner. A prelude to what lay ahead, it was a casual affair where many got to meet the Culinary Masters for the very first time, and all six chefs got to meet in person after weeks of emails and conference calls in preparation for the 12-hands dinner.&nbsp;



Come Saturday, as the sun rose summer morning, chef Yang Dengquan of Five Foot Road eschewed the spices of Sichuan for a&nbsp;mapo&nbsp;tofu lesson, just the light touch needed for a balmy morning in Macau. His cooking lesson was followed by a Chinese tea tasting session led by MGM COTAI tea experts, an intricate act of balance, artistry, and aromas.&nbsp;



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="758" height="1024" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/IMG_-2024-07-03-at-12.02.07 PM-758x1024.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234789133" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/IMG_-2024-07-03-at-12.02.07 PM-758x1024.jpg 758w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/IMG_-2024-07-03-at-12.02.07 PM-222x300.jpg 222w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/IMG_-2024-07-03-at-12.02.07 PM-768x1037.jpg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/IMG_-2024-07-03-at-12.02.07 PM-1138x1536.jpg 1138w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/IMG_-2024-07-03-at-12.02.07 PM.jpg 1185w" sizes="(max-width: 758px) 100vw, 758px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Chef Garima Arora demonstrating how to make gobi paratha.</figcaption></figure>



Speaking of aromas, the cauliflower flatbread—gobi paratha—made by chef Garima Arora, of Gaa in Bangkok, was the food equivalent of a warm embrace. Arora and her crew made the preparation of the&nbsp;gobi paratha&nbsp;look so easy when it was anything but, and the popular chef was a crowd favourite as she kept it light and cheery—just like her food.&nbsp;



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="683" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/IMG_-2024-07-03-at-12.03.04 PM-1024x683.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234789134" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/IMG_-2024-07-03-at-12.03.04 PM-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/IMG_-2024-07-03-at-12.03.04 PM-300x200.jpg 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/IMG_-2024-07-03-at-12.03.04 PM-768x512.jpg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/IMG_-2024-07-03-at-12.03.04 PM-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/IMG_-2024-07-03-at-12.03.04 PM-2048x1365.jpg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Chef Marco Galtarossa at his pasta-making workshop.</figcaption></figure>



At Grill 58, chef Marco Galtarossa instructed his students on making pasta from scratch. Flour power with a dash of butter and splash of olive oil, the genius was in its simplicity. Paired with Champagne, the ice-cold flutes of golden bubbles were just the ticket.&nbsp;



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="683" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/BBC3891-1024x683.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234789106" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/BBC3891-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/BBC3891-300x200.jpg 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/BBC3891-768x512.jpg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/BBC3891-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/BBC3891-2048x1365.jpg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Macau tour for international guests.</figcaption></figure>



For those new to the region, the international guests who flew in from the world over, including Australia, the US, the UK, the Middle East, Thailand, South Korea, Singapore, Italy, and more, a Macau tour was organised to take visitors around the city’s scenic spots and historical buildings. Meanwhile, others opted for an immersive art tour within the property as MGM COTAI proved to be a grand haven of great art and sculptures.&nbsp;



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="683" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Img_2024-07-03-at-10.58.21 AM-1024x683.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234789132" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Img_2024-07-03-at-10.58.21 AM-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Img_2024-07-03-at-10.58.21 AM-300x200.jpg 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Img_2024-07-03-at-10.58.21 AM-768x512.jpg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Img_2024-07-03-at-10.58.21 AM-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Img_2024-07-03-at-10.58.21 AM-2048x1365.jpg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Coffee tasting at Aji at MGM COTAI.</figcaption></figure>



Late afternoon, a warm gathering of coffee lovers collected at Aji, where coffee academics from Illy espoused the notions of refined coffee and presented a vast range of aroma profiles, and the goodie bags filled with the fine Italian java elicited many smiles. Other event guests spent their time at Vino Condiviso, the Italian wine expo at MGM COTAI, which proved to be a hit as many were sniffing, swirling, and sampling the finest wines.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="684" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/IMg_-2024-07-03-at-12.07.42 PM-1024x684.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234789137" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/IMg_-2024-07-03-at-12.07.42 PM-1024x684.jpg 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/IMg_-2024-07-03-at-12.07.42 PM-300x200.jpg 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/IMg_-2024-07-03-at-12.07.42 PM-768x513.jpg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/IMg_-2024-07-03-at-12.07.42 PM-1536x1025.jpg 1536w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/IMg_-2024-07-03-at-12.07.42 PM-2048x1367.jpg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Art tour at MGM COTAI.</figcaption></figure>



Always a popular tour, the behind-the-scenes look into the vast industrial kitchens of MGM COTAI wowed many who had never before seen operations of such scale and size, while others took an afternoon siesta in anticipation of the main event: the 12-hands gala dinner.



Presented under “Savor 700 Years of Silk Road Flavors: A Gastronomic Odyssey,” the 12-hands gala dinner by our Culinary Masters was the hottest ticket in town. Six chefs, each more acclaimed and famed than the other, joined hands to create a cohesive multi-course menu to fulfil the central theme of MGM x RR1HK Culinary Masters Macau 2024.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="683" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Img_-2024-07-03-at-12.23.55 PM-1024x683.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234789144" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Img_-2024-07-03-at-12.23.55 PM-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Img_-2024-07-03-at-12.23.55 PM-300x200.jpg 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Img_-2024-07-03-at-12.23.55 PM-768x512.jpg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Img_-2024-07-03-at-12.23.55 PM-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Img_-2024-07-03-at-12.23.55 PM-2048x1365.jpg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>



But a successful meal of this scale goes beyond just six Culinary Masters—it takes a village of hard-working team members and a robust kitchen brigade and waitstaff to pull off a grand finale dinner, serving hundreds of people in choreographed perfection. As the chefs took over one course each, it fell on sommelier Yulia Ezhikova to pair them with wine, which she did with aplomb, presenting labels and beverages with connections to Silk Road history.&nbsp;



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="664" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Img_-2024-07-03-at-12.17.48 PM-1024x664.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234789140" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Img_-2024-07-03-at-12.17.48 PM-1024x664.jpg 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Img_-2024-07-03-at-12.17.48 PM-300x194.jpg 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Img_-2024-07-03-at-12.17.48 PM-768x498.jpg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Img_-2024-07-03-at-12.17.48 PM-1536x996.jpg 1536w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Img_-2024-07-03-at-12.17.48 PM-2048x1328.jpg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Nearly 150 team members behind Culinary Masters 2024.</figcaption></figure>



It was clear that there was definitely some magical alchemy happening backstage as the dishes segued from one into the other with ease and elegance without a single jarring note, even though the dishes, ingredients, and cooking styles were as different and diverse as the chefs themselves were. With six collective Michelin stars twinkling backstage, it was dazzling to watch the final curtain call as each chef took to the dais to rapturous applause.&nbsp;



Our after-party saw many an apron untangle as the guests hit the bar and dancefloor in equal measure and pleasure, and conversations that began the night before continued the morning after when many met for a late breakfast. Just before the guests jetted off, a farewell brunch was hosted at Vista, and the chefs from within the hotel had their moment to shine as they served the best dishes from each of the marquee restaurants under the resort’s umbrella.&nbsp;



In the end, it wasn’t goodbyes or fare thee wells that were exchanged between new friends and old, but promises to return to Macau and “see you at the next Culinary Masters!” Until the next RR1 Signature Event—stay up-to-date on the latest happenings&nbsp;<a href="https://www.rr1hongkong.com/">here</a>.

Culinary Masters

Culinary Masters 2024

Macau

MGM Cotai

MGM Macau

Robb Report Hong Kong

MGM x RR1HK Culinary Masters Macau 2024 Celebrated the Bold Global Cuisines Inspired by the Silk Routes

It’s very tempting, when thinking of winery resorts, simply to recall global legends. In California’s Napa Valley, for instance, there’s Meadowood, a sprawling 250-acre rolling estate on the outskirts of St Helena. It has 36 bedrooms, and many regulars opt for a detached villa partly hidden among the trees, say number 33, which is close to two pools, the gym, and the spa.



Meadowood has evolved from a private club launched in the 1960s by wine guru Bill Harlan and a group of friends. Harlan, now 87, is quite a character. Son of a singing Baptist coal miner from Kentucky, his colourful past includes hitchhiking around the entire continent of Africa, professional gaming and motorbike racing, establishing his own highly successful Harlan Estate winery, and uttering such dogmatisms as “for longevity, a vineyard needs only one owner.”



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="683" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/The-Napa-Valley-Reserve-Bocce-Court-1024x683.jpeg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234789738" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/The-Napa-Valley-Reserve-Bocce-Court-1024x683.jpeg 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/The-Napa-Valley-Reserve-Bocce-Court-300x200.jpeg 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/The-Napa-Valley-Reserve-Bocce-Court-768x512.jpeg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/The-Napa-Valley-Reserve-Bocce-Court-1536x1024.jpeg 1536w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/The-Napa-Valley-Reserve-Bocce-Court-2048x1365.jpeg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">At The Napa Valley Reserve, over 50 acres have been planted with Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot vines. Image courtesy of The Napa Valley Reserve</figcaption></figure>



Bill Harlan remains the brains and power behind Meadowood’s on-site Napa Valley Reserve club, described as a stunning golf club without any golf. What it does have, however, is vines. Over 50 acres have been planted, 90 per cent with Cabernet Sauvignon and the rest with Merlot. Members buy rows of wines to produce “their” wine, and are bottled as such. Members also network at exclusive events, and they can rent the “golf” clubhouse for private events, either bringing their own chefs or working with the resort’s talented team.



The Harlan statement is not a Napa Valley norm. 10 minutes south along the I-29 from Meadowood, for instance, lies St Supéry Estate Vineyards and Winery. It has been owned since 2015 by Alain and Gerard Wertheimer, the German brothers who are best known for also owning Chanel, in all the brand’s variants.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="683" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/1X2A1149-1024x683.jpeg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234789739" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/1X2A1149-1024x683.jpeg 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/1X2A1149-300x200.jpeg 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/1X2A1149-768x512.jpeg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/1X2A1149-1536x1024.jpeg 1536w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/1X2A1149-2048x1365.jpeg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Over a hundred striking sculptures are dotted around the grounds of Lympstone Manor. Image courtesy of Lympstone Manor</figcaption></figure>



In England, however, celebrity chef Michael Caines is the sole owner of the 17,500 vines that cover 11 acres of the stunning 28 waterside acres surrounding his Lympstone Manor. This man’s a Leonardo of a dynamo. He designed every detail of what is now a 21-room luxury country house hotel—a favourite is Kingfisher on the upper floor, looking down to Devon’s beautiful Exe Estuary.



There are over a hundred striking sculptures dotted around the grounds. Caines, whose youngest child, Isabeau, is just three and after whom the Lympstone sparkling rosé is named, has also added six double-sized en-suite shepherds’ huts that attract kids and their parents, and now he’s doing a fully-fledged spa to complement tennis and an Olympic-sized heated outdoor pool.



Around Michelins for as long as he can remember, Michael Caines already has one star for Lympstone (choose one of his paired tasting menus). If possible, by the way, coincide with a special Caines happening—he’s a renowned petrolhead and his latest event was Lympstone’s annual Celebration of Speed, with Ferraris, Lamborghinis, McLarens, and lots of wine—for spectators, at least.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="683" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/MVC240581149-Gran-Hotel-Mas-den-Bruno-Amphitheatre-at-sunset-over-vineyard-1024x683.jpeg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234789740" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/MVC240581149-Gran-Hotel-Mas-den-Bruno-Amphitheatre-at-sunset-over-vineyard-1024x683.jpeg 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/MVC240581149-Gran-Hotel-Mas-den-Bruno-Amphitheatre-at-sunset-over-vineyard-300x200.jpeg 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/MVC240581149-Gran-Hotel-Mas-den-Bruno-Amphitheatre-at-sunset-over-vineyard-768x512.jpeg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/MVC240581149-Gran-Hotel-Mas-den-Bruno-Amphitheatre-at-sunset-over-vineyard-1536x1024.jpeg 1536w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/MVC240581149-Gran-Hotel-Mas-den-Bruno-Amphitheatre-at-sunset-over-vineyard-2048x1365.jpeg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Mas d’en Bruno boasts a working fire pit overlooking vineyard terraces. Image courtesy of Mas d’en Bruno </figcaption></figure>



Priorat is one of Spain’s two major wine region—the other is Rioja—and Priorat now has its first luxury winery resort, Mas d’en Bruno. As at Lympstone Manor, wake up to a minimum 270-degree vista of fruitful vines—in this case, Grenache, farmed by some of Mas d’en Bruno’s partners. Some would choose bedrooms in the original Mas d’en Bruno farmhouse but room number 50, at the end of a modern single-floor extension, is also particularly appealing. It has a padel-sized, vine-surrounded terrace with working fire pit and a private pool, heated year-round.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="683" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Bastide-lac-cygnes_GdeLaubier_2014-1024x683.jpeg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234789622" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Bastide-lac-cygnes_GdeLaubier_2014-1024x683.jpeg 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Bastide-lac-cygnes_GdeLaubier_2014-300x200.jpeg 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Bastide-lac-cygnes_GdeLaubier_2014-768x512.jpeg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Bastide-lac-cygnes_GdeLaubier_2014-1536x1024.jpeg 1536w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Bastide-lac-cygnes_GdeLaubier_2014-2048x1365.jpeg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Les Sources de Caudalie in Bordeaux is located close to the vineyards of Château Smith Haut Lafitte. Image courtesy of Les Sources de Caudalie</figcaption></figure>



It’s obviously sensible to finish in Bordeaux, and where better than Les Sources de Caudalie, known not only for its proximity to the vineyards of Château Smith Haut Lafitte, a Grand Cru Classé de Graves, but also for its outstanding beauty and spa products and its 61-room hotel—think about the Ile aux Oiseau Suite, which is like a little house on stilts over a lake, with white-and-pastel-pink interiors. Les Sources de Caudalie’s 193-acre hospitality and winery estate is owned by the Cathiard-Thomas family of sporting and supermarket fame, and is fronted by Alice Cathiard and her husband Jérome Tourbier.

Les Sources de Caudalie

Lympstone Manor

Mas d’en Bruno

Meadowood

Wine Tourism Is Back. Here Are 5 Luxury Wine Resorts For the Perfect Summer Getaway.

Hear it first, here on Robb Report Hong Kong: Botanic Sanctuary in Antwerp could soon be the top urban resort in the world, anywhere.



Antwerp? It’s the discreet Belgian city, just under an hour by train from Brussels. It’s best known for diamonds—or it was. Soon, Botanic Sanctuary will be top of the list. The experience starts on arrival at Antwerp’s cathedral of a station. Botanic Sanctuary’s white hybrid Porsche Cayenne awaits, with a flat-cap driver and a butler in leaf-green with golden corsage (all the team members are dressed by royal designer Édouard Vermeulen).



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="683" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Monastery-Garden-1024x683.jpeg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234789751" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Monastery-Garden-1024x683.jpeg 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Monastery-Garden-300x200.jpeg 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Monastery-Garden-768x512.jpeg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Monastery-Garden-1536x1024.jpeg 1536w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Monastery-Garden-2048x1365.jpeg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Botanic Sanctuary Antwerp is set in the city’s Botanical Gardens, which evolved over two centuries ago.</figcaption></figure>



It’s 10 minutes to the hotel, set in the city’s Botanical Gardens, which evolved over two centuries ago. They grew medicinal herbs for the neighbouring St Elizabeth’s Hospital, part of a large medieval complex that included monasteries and convents, and a glorious church.



The holies moved out, leaving their superb buildings behind. Local developer Eric De Vocht moved in and, with his designer wife Maryse Odeurs, spent eight years minutely converting six of the former monastic buildings to what is now a 108-room Leading Hotel of the World. (The couple had already created Antwerp’s Hilton and one lesser hotel, but now they were after luxury.)



A hotel reception area that is a giant plant-filled conservatory sets the tone. This is a resort for all the senses. The deconsecrated chapel, still with breathtaking stained glass and acoustics that bring top maestros to tears, is used for organ recitals, regular concerts, and dinners for meetings.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="683" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/hertig-jan-april-2022-©-Pieter-DHoop-110-kopie-1024x683.jpeg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234789756" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/hertig-jan-april-2022-©-Pieter-DHoop-110-kopie-1024x683.jpeg 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/hertig-jan-april-2022-©-Pieter-DHoop-110-kopie-300x200.jpeg 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/hertig-jan-april-2022-©-Pieter-DHoop-110-kopie-768x512.jpeg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/hertig-jan-april-2022-©-Pieter-DHoop-110-kopie-1536x1024.jpeg 1536w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/hertig-jan-april-2022-©-Pieter-DHoop-110-kopie-2048x1365.jpeg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Hertog Jan is one of eight world-class restaurants at Botanic Sanctuary.</figcaption></figure>



Dotted around the whole are eight restaurants, with four Michelin stars between them. Botanic Sanctuary has cleverly persuaded the region’s top restaurateurs to move in, lock, stock, and barrel, bringing awards and regular customers with them. 80 per cent of diners, all meals, are not staying in the hotel.



Lunch at two-star Hertog Jan, for instance, might well include local white asparagus, charred on a charcoal burner and brought to your table by co-owner Joachim Boudens. He then spoons Belgian caviar on top. It’s as creamy as the caviar tart that awaits in your room—one bite of heaven.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="683" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Deluxe-Room-Terrace-2-1024x683.jpeg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234789755" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Deluxe-Room-Terrace-2-1024x683.jpeg 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Deluxe-Room-Terrace-2-300x200.jpeg 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Deluxe-Room-Terrace-2-768x512.jpeg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Deluxe-Room-Terrace-2-1536x1024.jpeg 1536w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Deluxe-Room-Terrace-2-2048x1365.jpeg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">The Deluxe Room with Terrace overlooks the Botanic Sanctuary’s monastery buildings.</figcaption></figure>



Hotel suite 119, typically, is mostly taupe, from satin-smooth new wood floors up to centuries-old wood ceilings. Natural linen forms drapes and upholstery. There’s an electric-fired flickering fire. Copious books cover Matisse through to modern seaside cottage design.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="683" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Pharmacy-3-1024x683.jpeg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234789750" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Pharmacy-3-1024x683.jpeg 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Pharmacy-3-300x200.jpeg 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Pharmacy-3-768x512.jpeg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Pharmacy-3-1536x1024.jpeg 1536w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Pharmacy-3-2048x1365.jpeg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">The St Charles store inside Botanic Sanctuary offers traditional herbal medicine. </figcaption></figure>



Outside comes inside here, just as old pairs seamlessly with new. There’s an apothecary store, where 200 years ago nuns used to dispense. Today, fashionistas and others drive from far afield to stock up on natural potions and lotions including the eighth-generation St Charles, which also has dedicated boutiques in Berlin and Vienna.



One part of this mammoth Antwerp operation flows into another. Botanic Sanctuary’s German managing director, Christian Hirt, knows wedding parties often want to check out the well-labelled plants in the garden. Weekending couples go crazy when they start exploring the history of the whole. And once somebody starts exploring hangings on some walls—a jute sculpture here, Asian heads there—it’s necessary to call in Xavier Le Cerf.



This Antwerp-born passionista is spa director, plus musicologist and the Botanic Sanctuary’s art curator. His storytelling ranges from why a red-white-and-black block painting in one restaurant had to be extended to why four black heads peeping out of grass are at different heights.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="683" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/BHS-Swimming-pool-1024x683.jpeg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234789753" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/BHS-Swimming-pool-1024x683.jpeg 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/BHS-Swimming-pool-300x200.jpeg 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/BHS-Swimming-pool-768x512.jpeg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/BHS-Swimming-pool-1536x1024.jpeg 1536w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/BHS-Swimming-pool-2048x1365.jpeg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Inside the three-floor wellness centre, the indoor pool is Olympic-sized.</figcaption></figure>



But his stories stop when he’s showing off the new-build three-floor wellness centre. There’s a whole floor of latest fitness, an Olympic pool with blazing fire at one end, and the spa.



Try global diagnosis here. Being electrically connected via one’s ankles to a Vitatec global diagnostic machine at 7.30 am for a 14-minute assessment of no less than 600 sound beats in the body is a great pre-breakfast exercise. It certainly gives an appetite for Botanic Sanctuary’s popular breakfast buffet, in a room that centuries ago was a nursing ward run by monks and nuns.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="683" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Breakfast-Catalpa-1-1024x683.jpeg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234789757" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Breakfast-Catalpa-1-1024x683.jpeg 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Breakfast-Catalpa-1-300x200.jpeg 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Breakfast-Catalpa-1-768x512.jpeg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Breakfast-Catalpa-1-1536x1024.jpeg 1536w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Breakfast-Catalpa-1-2048x1365.jpeg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">The Botanic Breakfast Experience happens at Catalpa.</figcaption></figure>



Botanic Sanctuary Antwerp is serious business, from every point of view, and worth every precious minute.



All images courtesy of Botanic Sanctuary Antwerp.

Antwerp

Belgium

Botanic Sanctuary

wellness

Inside Antwerp’s Botanic Sanctuary, a Restored Monastery Complex With a Three-Storey Wellness Centre

Mediterranean holidays are still the toast of the town.



International tourists are set to spend a record-breaking €800 billion (HK$6.8 trillion) in <a href="https://robbreport.com/tag/europe/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Europe</a> this year, according to a <a href="https://etc-corporate.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">European Travel Commission</a> report Bloomberg <a href="https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2024-07-11/tourists-to-boost-european-economy-by-record-800-billion-in-2024" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">received</a>. That marks an impressive 37 per cent increase from the pre-pandemic levels of €583 billion (HK$4.95 trillion), per the United Nations <a href="https://robbreport.com/tag/tourism/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Tourism</a> data cited by the publication.



“For now, we can see that southern European and Mediterranean destinations remain firm favourites for travellers in Europe,” Eduardo Santander, the CEO of the European <a href="https://robbreport.com/tag/travel/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Travel</a> Commission, told Bloomberg.



Tourists appreciate the warmer weather in the aforementioned areas and the sometimes less-expensive options, Santander added. Greece, for example, continues to be a hot spot. And southern locales like Croatia and Malta have seen an increase in overseas tourists, with numbers up 7.6 per cent and 37 per cent, respectively, compared with 2019. Albania, meanwhile, has seen the share of overnight tourists jump a massive 86 per cent compared with 2019.



Overall, 72 per cent of tourists’ spending has occurred in Western Europe, according to the report. And most of those tourists are arriving on the continent from America. But some travellers are interested in avoiding the usual vacation cities, where over-tourism can be rampant. As such, many visitors are heading to Europe’s northern countries: International overnight stays have risen 38 per cent in Denmark, 18 per cent in Norway, and 9 per cent in Sweden, compared with 2019.



Yet others are planning their trips based on a favourable exchange rate. International tourist arrivals are up 22 per cent in Turkey and 29 per cent in Bulgaria, compared with 2019 numbers. And in Serbia, those arrivals have skyrocketed 40 per cent compared with before the pandemic.



While the almost US$900 billion (HK$7 trillion) being added to the European economy is certainly a boon, some countries aren’t so thrilled with all the extra people showing up. A number of places have enacted <a href="https://robbreport.com/travel/destinations/tourism-tax-stop-overcrowding-1235693175/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">anti-tourism policies</a> such as <a href="https://robbreport.com/travel/hotels/amsterdam-hotel-ban-tourism-1235586979/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">bans on new hotels</a> and <a href="https://robbreport.com/travel/destinations/venice-new-tourist-tax-1235596668/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">day-tripper fees</a>. And locals have begun to protest against over-tourism, even <a href="https://robbreport.com/travel/destinations/barcelona-over-tourism-protests-1235702400/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">spraying visitors with water guns</a> to get their point across.



These actions, though, don’t seem to have deterred travellers just yet. They’re still heading to Europe, and bringing their money along with them.

Barcelona

europe

mediterranean

tourism

Tourist attraction

Travel

Tourists Are Set to Spend a Record HK$6.8 Trillion in Europe This Year

Longevity runs for a long time, but it needs at least occasional refreshment. Fashion knows how to diversify outside the box—think Dior Home. So, too, do cars—we have McLaren Residences, Peugeot salt and pepper mills, and Porsche clothing and suitcases. Hotels usually think more in vertical expansion, but Aman breaks that mould.



It is now 35 years since Adrian Zecha opened Amanpuri in Phuket. As Aman grew, the brand became synonymous with individual units offering ultimate privacy and seclusion. Now, in 2024, the Aman concept has a sibling, Janu (“soul” in Sanskrit), that boldly says social connection.



Janu opened in Tokyo’s newest “village,” Azabudai Hills, in March 2024. The exterior looks like any other modern Tokyo glass-and-steel block, but it is set in striking green landscape architecture by Thomas Heatherwick—typical of the designer who came up with New York’s High Line and London’s bulbous-ended red buses. One of Azabudai Hills’ residential blocks is a grass-topped rollercoaster shape.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="683" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Janu-Tokyo-Japan-Accommodation-City-View-Suite_48601-1024x683.jpeg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234789604" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Janu-Tokyo-Japan-Accommodation-City-View-Suite_48601-1024x683.jpeg 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Janu-Tokyo-Japan-Accommodation-City-View-Suite_48601-300x200.jpeg 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Janu-Tokyo-Japan-Accommodation-City-View-Suite_48601-768x512.jpeg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Janu-Tokyo-Japan-Accommodation-City-View-Suite_48601-1536x1024.jpeg 1536w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Janu-Tokyo-Japan-Accommodation-City-View-Suite_48601-2048x1365.jpeg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Janu Tokyo has 122 rooms, many of which can be connected to each other for larger groups staying together. Image courtesy of Janu Tokyo</figcaption></figure>



Inside Janu, the 122 rooms are, in many cases, connected, so you can link, say, four rooms together. See the socialising every day at 12 pm noon when afternoon tea starts: the Janu Lounge in the lobby is all-seats-taken with local lovelies networking before rushing off to pick up their kids from the nearby British School. Tokyo pleasure-seekers use Janu constantly—the Chinese restaurant Hu Jing is the most popular of the eight dining venues. When it comes to wellness, the indoor pool is a staggering 25 metres long. Do try a Janu Experience, with warmed copper massage sticks.



Interestingly, Janu’s main art decoration is dorodango, an ancient Japanese art using plain old mud. The result is that all rooms have large sections of their cream walls covered with deliberately pockmarked panels of dried mud, and remarkably effective it is, too. A hardback in bedrooms, Dorodango: The Japanese Art of Making Mud Balls by specialist Bruce Gardner, explains the process.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="747" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/72329580-scale-a-30042024-1024x747.jpeg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234789602" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/72329580-scale-a-30042024-1024x747.jpeg 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/72329580-scale-a-30042024-300x219.jpeg 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/72329580-scale-a-30042024-768x560.jpeg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/72329580-scale-a-30042024-1536x1120.jpeg 1536w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/72329580-scale-a-30042024-2048x1493.jpeg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">One of Andy Warhol’s many signed Flowers artworks realised HK$35 million, under estimate, at Christie’s Hong Kong. Image courtesy of Christie’s Images Ltd. 2024</figcaption></figure>



Talking of art, is Asian investment taste diversifying away from speculating in things to hang on walls? One of Andy Warhol’s many signed Flowers artworks realised HK$66.6 million at Christie’s Hong Kong on 28 May. Anders Petterson, managing director of ArtTactic, a research firm, says that overall evening art sales in Hong Kong are 40 per cent down year-on-year. It will be interesting to see what happens at Christie’s Hong Kong’s next sale of 20th- and 21st-century art, scheduled for 26 and 27 September. This will be at the global auction giant’s new Asia-Pacific headquarters, in the Zaha Hadid Architects-designed Henderson Building in Central.



At youthful level, Gen Zs are, it seems, still investing in sneakers, especially white, and in fragrance. Italian cashmere king Brunello Cucinelli may be on to a good thing. He is working with celebrated noses on aromas that are inspired by the Cucinelli base in Umbria. OK, Cucinelli is Italian, so why name the perfumes in French? Brunello Cucinelli Pour Femme apparently blends notes of sweet chestnut, citrus, orange blossom, and pink pepper to capture the elegance and depth of women. This perfume has been created by nose Daphné Bugey, a kite-surfing world traveller whose clients also include Dolce &amp; Gabbana, Jean Paul Gaultier, and Kenzo. For men, meanwhile, Brunello Cucinelli Pour Homme is said to be a blend of cypress, juniper, sage, and ginger; this was created by Olivier Cresp, one of the legends of his hometown of Grasse, often said to be French home of perfume.



Cresp is working on five to 10 new fragrances at any one time. It’s probably rather like a chef having to create several menus simultaneously. Switching from one to the other could well stimulate creativity. At his Amber base in the Landmark Mandarin Oriental, Hong Kong, culinary director Richard Ekkebus sees an increasing number of customers—lunch as well as dinner—choose 10-course menus. Planning means an awful lot of tastes to consider. Perhaps multi-thinking is good for the brain, and thus longevity.

Brunello Cucinelli

Christie’s Hong Kong

Janu Tokyo

Explore the New Janu Tokyo in Azabudai Hills, Discover Brunello Cucinelli’s Range of Fragrances, And Other Things to Bookmark this July

Have we seen the last of the Lunar New Year launches? Over the past few weeks, there have been <a href="https://robbreport.hk/posts/lunar-new-year-2024-7-menswear-accessories-collections-celebrating-the-dragon-motif" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">capsule collections</a> from leading brands, special-edition <a href="https://robbreport.hk/posts/lunar-new-year-2024-7-luxury-watches-to-celebrate-the-year-of-the-dragon" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">watches</a> and <a href="https://robbreport.hk/posts/lunar-new-year-2024-3-luxurious-spirits-to-celebrate-the-year-of-the-dragon" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">bottles</a>, and dragon-motif <a href="https://robbreport.hk/posts/lunar-new-year-2024-7-jewellery-pieces-to-usher-in-the-year-of-the-dragon" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">jewellery</a>, but a dragon-inspired car did not cross our minds. Now, zooming into focus, leaving a cloud of dust in its wake, a Range Rover to celebrate the Year of the Dragon has been poised and parked in the region—and we just had to check it out.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="683" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/Overfinch_Int_Front-1024x683.jpeg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234785589" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/Overfinch_Int_Front-1024x683.jpeg 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/Overfinch_Int_Front-300x200.jpeg 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/Overfinch_Int_Front-768x512.jpeg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/Overfinch_Int_Front-1536x1024.jpeg 1536w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/Overfinch_Int_Front-2048x1365.jpeg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>



Overfinch, the Range Rover enhancement specialist, has launched “<a href="https://www.overfinch.com/commission-your-overfinch/the-dragon-edition/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">The Dragon Edition</a>,” a limited series of just eight bespoke enhancement-packed cars, “each embodying the ultimate symbol of power and prosperity.” As part of a suite of unique detailing and design aspects that have been carved into the dashboard, headrest, and other parts of the car’s exquisitely appointed interiors, the emblematic image of the zodiac dragon is gorgeously etched throughout the commemorative models in a sophisticated and elegant manner. 



“The Dragon Edition raises the bar for bespoke automotive luxury,” says Kevin Sloane, chairman and CEO of Overfinch, in an official statement. “It’s an incredible showcase of art and craftsmanship. This was a creatively ambitious project, conceived and executed to exacting standards.”



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="683" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/Overfinch_Int_CentreConsole-1024x683.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234785587" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/Overfinch_Int_CentreConsole-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/Overfinch_Int_CentreConsole-300x200.jpg 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/Overfinch_Int_CentreConsole-768x512.jpg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/Overfinch_Int_CentreConsole-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/Overfinch_Int_CentreConsole-2048x1365.jpg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>



A year in the making, the modifications to the Range Rover are remarkable. Keeping in mind Chinese cultural riches and diversity, The Dragon Edition has been developed exclusively in the region for the 2024 Range Rover model, specifically the SV and Autobiography derivatives. Hone in on the dragon motif in the multi-coloured embroidery detailing in the leather accessories, gear selector, veneer, and limited-edition badging on the front centre console. Keeping with the theme, the custom red-and-black colour scheme is resplendent throughout the plush, comfortable interiors. The perforated dragon-scale patterning on the driver’s and side-passenger’s seat is a nice touch, and the tactile aspects of the cabin have not been neglected. Furthermore, the mystical theme is extended to illuminated treadplates on each door sill, the carbon-fibre styling for Range Rover, and its commemorative badging. Whether in rest or motion, the swish and swag of the car is hard to miss.



“Our ability to discuss details of the design directly with our clients, and really understand their true significance, was hugely important,” comments Sloane, pointing out the various aspects that make this vehicle enhancement package unique. “Whilst paying homage to 2024 being the Year of the Dragon, we wanted to retain our commitment to uninhibited creative exploration. This required us to respectfully adopt a timeless symbol of China and Chinese culture into a considered and imaginative design.”



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="683" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/FRONT-3Q-EXT-1024x683.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234785588" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/FRONT-3Q-EXT-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/FRONT-3Q-EXT-300x200.jpg 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/FRONT-3Q-EXT-768x512.jpg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/FRONT-3Q-EXT-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/FRONT-3Q-EXT-2048x1365.jpg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>



Since the 1970s, Overfinch has been in the market making bespoke enhancements and upgrades to Range Rovers the world over. A happy marriage of luxury and individuality, Overfinch cars and vehicles have distinguished themselves through a range of elegant beautifications, be it for a billionaire on the desert dunes or a celebrity arriving in red-carpet style. Now, the latest Dragon Edition is offered as a conversion programme for existing Range Rover owners and is priced at US$250,000 (HK$1.95 million).



All images courtesy of Overfinch.

Limited Edition

Range Rover

special edition

You Can Now Get a Limited-Edition Year of the Dragon Mod For Your Range Rover 

The <a href="https://robbreport.com/tag/audi/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Audi</a> RS 6 Avant was a participant in our <a href="https://robbreport.com/motors/cars/2022-robb-report-car-of-the-year-1234659382/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">2022 Robb Report Car of the Year contest</a>. I loved that car, and wrote at the time, “Really, a <a href="https://robbreport.com/motors/cars/porsche-911-marques-last-internal-combustion-engine-model-1234872673/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">911</a> and an RS 6 are the only two cars one needs. The only thing the Audi doesn’t do is attract attention.” I still believe that these would be the perfect brace of cars to fill a two-car garage, but the difference today is that the RS 6 Avant GT will attract a lot of attention.



This year celebrates the 40th anniversary of Audi Sport, the automaker’s racing and performance division that has brought so many great cars to the track—and the market, such as the iconic RS4. The most recent is the RS 6 Avant GT, the most potent arrow in Audi’s quiver and the final model in the RS 6 Avant lineage, the fourth series of which was launched in 2019. Reasonable observers would recognise it as a station wagon, albeit one with a pronounced purpose and lots of un-wagon-like attributes.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/2-w-A237097_large_b9b1a2-1024x576.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234785338" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/2-w-A237097_large_b9b1a2-1024x576.webp 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/2-w-A237097_large_b9b1a2-300x169.webp 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/2-w-A237097_large_b9b1a2-768x432.webp 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/2-w-A237097_large_b9b1a2.webp 1200w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">The limited-edition 2025 Audi RS 6 Avant GT. Image courtesy of Audi AG</figcaption></figure>



It’s a car long-awaited by wagon enthusiasts around the world, but if you think chasing one down on the road will be a challenge, try chasing one down in the showroom. <a href="https://robbreport.com/motors/cars/audi-all-factories-build-evs-1234787424/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Audi</a> plans to build only 660 examples for the model year 2025, and of these, a mere 85 are coming to the United States, while just seven will trickle into Canada. It would seem as if North America were getting the short end of the stick, and that’s the bad news. But as the acquisition of many cars remains hypothetical, one can at least revel in the notion that, with its RS 6 Avant GT, <a href="https://robbreport.com/motors/cars/audis-lfuturistic-activesphere-suv-truck-concept-1234800898/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Audi</a> will have arguably built the most impressive series-production wagon in history.



Under the carbon-fibre hood is the most powerful engine of any series-production Audi ever made. A 4.0-litre, twin-turbocharged V-8, it’s rated at 621 hp and 627 ft lbs of torque, up from 591 hp and 590 ft lbs of torque delivered by the 2019 iteration. Top speed, while academic except on a very empty Autobahn, is 190 mph, and the car is claimed to cover zero to 60 mph in 3.3 seconds. Audi engineers have had some fun fettling the underpinnings of the GT, which, with all the ministrations of carbon fibre, carbon-ceramic brakes, and whatnot, loses a mere 33 pounds and weighs in at a still substantial 4,565 pounds.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/4-w-A237164_large_684ebc-1024x576.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234785337" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/4-w-A237164_large_684ebc-1024x576.webp 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/4-w-A237164_large_684ebc-300x169.webp 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/4-w-A237164_large_684ebc-768x432.webp 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/4-w-A237164_large_684ebc.webp 1200w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">The combination of the model’s 4.0-litre, twin-turbocharged V-8 and eight-speed Tiptronic gearbox allows the car to cover zero to 60 mph in 3.3 seconds. Image courtesy of Audi AG</figcaption></figure>



The suspension received much attention, and is a manually adjustable coil-over setup that rides 10 mm lower than typical but has been designed to maintain a comfortable ride for daily driving. Continental Sport Contact 7 tires, designed for the GT, perform in wet as well as dry conditions. Shifting through Audi’s standard eight-speed Tiptronic gearbox, you’ll discover that the driveline features an updated Quattro Sport differential (every RS is AWD, after all) that has been recalibrated for more rear-wheel bias, adding precision and fun to the handling equation.



The exterior design, inspired by Audi’s RS 6 GTO concept, is raw and muscular. The fenders recall the original IMSA Audi 90 GTO, one of the wildest and most aggressive-looking racing sedans ever created. A wide, flat grille and gaping air intakes come on strong, while a huge, double rear wing—mounted topside—and a lower diffusor take up the rear. And the carbon-fibre hood—a first for an Audi—reveals its make-up with exposed sections of woven composite.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/3-w-A237109_large_fbf650-1024x576.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234785336" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/3-w-A237109_large_fbf650-1024x576.webp 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/3-w-A237109_large_fbf650-300x169.webp 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/3-w-A237109_large_fbf650-768x432.webp 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/3-w-A237109_large_fbf650.webp 1200w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">The front seats are carbon buckets stitched with Audi’s honeycomb pattern, and the centre console bears a plaque with the individual number of the car from the series. Image courtesy of Audi AG</figcaption></figure>



The roof is smooth, eschewing roof rails for a clean and aerodynamic look. Outlets at the rear of the carbon-fibre front fenders exhaust air and draw even further attention to the GT’s most obvious fashion accessory: 22-inch rims with six funnel spokes—an homage to Audi’s recognisable motorsport design. These are available in gloss white or black, or matte black, complementing the available graphics packages that are straight out of central casting for the IMSA Audi 90 GTO. For anyone not paying attention, special badging front and rear identifies this as a very special RS 6, indeed. Available colours are Arkona White, Nardo Grey, Chronos Grey Metallic, Madeira Brown Metallic, and Mythos Black Metallic. And the Arkona White, Nardo Grey, and Mythos Black Metallic finishes are available with wild graphics packages that combine the traditional colours of Audi Sport.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/6-w-A237106_large-1024x576.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234785335" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/6-w-A237106_large-1024x576.webp 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/6-w-A237106_large-300x169.webp 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/6-w-A237106_large-768x432.webp 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/6-w-A237106_large.webp 1200w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">The 2025 RS 6 Avant GT rides on 22-inch rims with six funnel spokes—an homage to Audi’s recognisable motorsport design. Image courtesy of Audi AG</figcaption></figure>



The interior is typical, tasteful Audi, a blessed respite from disco-fantasy light shows popular with other German marques. The front seats are carbon buckets stitched with Audi’s honeycomb pattern, and the centre console bears a plaque with the individual number of the car from the series of 660. Behind the front seats is nearly 60 cubic feet of interior volume (with the rear seats folded flat), proof that performance and practicality are not mutually exclusive concepts.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/5-w-A237166_large_14791f-1024x576.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234785334" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/5-w-A237166_large_14791f-1024x576.webp 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/5-w-A237166_large_14791f-300x169.webp 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/5-w-A237166_large_14791f-768x432.webp 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/5-w-A237166_large_14791f.webp 1200w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Deliveries of the model begin during the second quarter of this year. Image courtesy of Audi AG</figcaption></figure>



Unlike the previous RS 6 Avant, which was built entirely at the Neckarsulm factory, partially assembled GTs are sent to a special line at Böllinger Höfe after body construction, painting, and general assembly. This facility, equipped for small-series production, allows final assembly by hand at three stations and by just seven technicians. The stateside MSRP is yet to be announced, though it will likely be around US$220,000 (HK$1.7 million), which is an irrelevant figure given the assured dealer markups. Delivery begins during the second quarter of this year. If you can get your hands on one—you can have it all. The rest of us can dream.

audi

Audi RS 6 Avant GT

Station Wagon

Audi’s Newest RS 6 Station Wagon Is Now Its Most Powerful Production Car

The&nbsp;<a href="https://robbreport.com/tag/goodwood-festival-of-speed/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Goodwood Festival of Speed</a>&nbsp;has a new production car king.



The&nbsp;<a href="https://robbreport.com/motors/cars/czinger-vehicles-c21-hypercar-1234728043/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Czinger 21C</a>&nbsp;set a new record for a street-legal production vehicle during the timed hill climb portion of this year’s event. The hybrid coupé rocketed up the winding course in 48.83 seconds.



The 21C was piloted by Chris Ward while making history on Sunday. <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=p2JZsuBR99Y" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Video of the run</a> shows the 3D-printed hypercar sliding around the 1.16-mile course at blistering speed. But what might be most impressive about the climb is that it could have been even faster. The vehicle makes contact with a hay bale barrier near the finish line—you can see a side view mirror dangling from the car—which makes one wonder what time it could have posted had it completed the run cleanly.



<iframe loading="lazy" width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/p2JZsuBR99Y?si=ytySkRz8H53SdZUF" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen></iframe>



In making it up the hill in 48.83 seconds, the 21C beat the previous production vehicle mark by nearly a half second. The record had belonged to&nbsp;<a href="https://robbreport.com/motors/cars/rimac-nevera-15th-anniversary-edition-one-of-nine-1235702137/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Rimac Nevera</a>&nbsp;for all of a year. In 2023, the electric hypercar completed the same run in 49.32 seconds. The 21C’s time can’t compete with the fastest car in Goodwood hill climb history, though. The&nbsp;<a href="https://robbreport.com/motors/cars/mcmurtrys-electric-speirling-fan-car-production-version-1234858532/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">McMurtry Speirling&nbsp;</a>electric fan car&nbsp;<a href="https://robbreport.com/motors/cars/mcmurtry-speirling-road-car-planned-1234695058/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">shot through the course in just 39.08 seconds</a>—nearly 10 seconds quicker than the 21C—in the summer of 2022.



It’s not all that surprising to see a car like the 21C make its way into the Goodwood records book. The marque’s first car was engineered and designed to go as fast as possible. It features an outlandish design with bulbous fenders, a jet-style two-person cockpit that positions the passenger behind the driver, and a gigantic rear wing. It’s powered by a hybrid powertrain that consists of a twin-turbocharged 2.9-litre V-8 and two mounted electric motors that combine to generate 1,250 horses.



Czinger isn’t done setting records yet. Founder Kevin Czinger <a href="https://carbuzz.com/czinger-chasing-new-records-2025/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">told Carbuzz</a> the California-based company plans to take the 21C on a “little international trip” next year. Though the executive didn’t where the hypercar was headed next, the website guessed that Nürburgring and Spa-Francorchamps could be on the itinerary. Another record or two would certainly help <a href="https://robbreport.com/motors/cars/lists/most-expensive-cars-1234885095/czinger-21c-1-7-million/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">justify the vehicle’s US$1.7 million (HK$13.2 million) price tag</a>.

3D-printed

Chris Ward

Czinger 21C

Goodwood Festival of Speed

Hypercar

The Czinger 21C Just Became the Fastest Production Car in Goodwood History

<a href="https://robbreport.com/tag/ferrari/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Ferrari</a>’s electric future will be before you know it.



The storied automaker’s CEO, Benedetto Vigna, has&nbsp;<a href="https://www.autocar.co.uk/car-news/new-cars/ferrari-boss-sets-ambitious-brief-2025-debut-ev" rel="noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">confirmed to&nbsp;Autocar</a>&nbsp;that the company’s first EV will make its debut in 2025. He also revealed that the company’s test drivers have already put thousands of miles on test mules of the vehicle.



Vigna was careful not to reveal too much about the vehicle, but he did say it will be unveiled late next year, before going on sale sometime in 2026. That timeline isn’t all surprising since Ferrari has been spotted testing out mysterious prototypes around Maranello. The executive didn’t have to say much about that other than that the company’s drivers had already put “several thousand kilometres” on the test mules. Spy shots have shown a heavily camouflaged vehicle wearing a modified version of the Maserati Levante’s body. It remains to be seen whether the finished EV will look at all like that SUV, though. Prototypes of the Ferrari Purosangue (which is pictured above) were also based on the Levante, but the production version was significantly different.



Whatever shape the battery-powered model ends up taking, Vigna is convinced it will appeal to the brand’s most ardent supporters and tech-savvy newcomers alike. That’s because, as Vigna puts it, there’s not one thing that makes a Prancing Horse a Prancing Horse—though they are all fun to drive.



“There is not a pattern really,” Vigna told the magazine. “People buy a Ferrari because when they buy a Ferrari, they have a lot of fun. They don’t buy a Ferrari because A, B, C, D or a single element. It’s a combination of things. When we do electric cars, we will produce them in the right way.”



Although Ferrari is keeping information about the model close to the vest, there has been plenty of speculation about the vehicle. Last month, Reuters reported the company’s debut EV <a href="https://robbreport.com/motors/cars/ferraris-first-ev-will-cost-over-1235661037/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">will likely start at well over US$500,000</a> (HK$3.9 million) and that another battery-powered model is already in the works. Vigna wouldn’t comment on the report other than to say that the price likely won’t be finalized until just before launch.



An electric Prancing Horse may be on the way, but the sports car&nbsp;<a href="https://robbreport.com/motors/cars/ferrari-exec-says-first-ev-deliver-authentic-sound-1235650084/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">remains committed to the traditional gas-powered engine.</a>&nbsp;Vigna didn’t go into much detail about the company’s future but did say it plans to offer internal combustion, hybrid-powered, and all-electric models.

battery-powered

electric car

Ferrari

gas-powered engine

Ferrari Confirms Its First Electric Car Is Coming Next Year

<a href="https://robbreport.com/tag/polestar/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Polestar</a>’s latest prototype will only build anticipation for the company’s first sports car.



The Swedish automaker kicked off this year’s Goodwood Festival of Speed by unveiling the new Concept BST. The one-off EV is a bulked-up version of the&nbsp;<a href="https://robbreport.com/motors/cars/polestar-o2-roadster-concept-production-2026-1234739687/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">upcoming 6</a>&nbsp;that was designed with motorsports in mind.



Polestar really couldn’t have picked a better basis for its latest concept than the 6. The car, which was unveiled a couple of years ago and is itself based on the earlier&nbsp;<a href="https://robbreport.com/motors/cars/all-electric-polestar-o2-concept-revealed-1234666057/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">02 Roadster Concept</a>, will be the marque’s first true sports car when it hits the market in 2026. It’s also, without a doubt, the company’s most striking vehicle.



<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/2024/07/conceptbst02-copy-1024x683.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234789471" style="width:840px;height:auto" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/conceptbst02-copy-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/conceptbst02-copy-300x200.jpg 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/conceptbst02-copy-768x512.jpg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/conceptbst02-copy-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/conceptbst02-copy-2048x1365.jpg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Polestar Concept BST. Image courtesy of Polestar</figcaption></figure>



For the Concept BST, designers have taken the open-top 6’s sleek and athletic shape and added some serious muscle. The prototype, which features a removable roof, sits lower to the ground than the production-bound EV and is outfitted with an aggressive body kit that includes a larger front splitter and rear diffuser, flared wheel arches, and a giant wing in the back. It’s finished silver and wears a racing-style livery that includes a large number 6 on the hood as well as the letters “BST” along the side panels. Rounding things out is a set of 22-inch that hide Swedish gold brake callipers and are wrapped in performance tires.



As tends to be the case with Polestar prototypes, no technical details have been announced. But the 6, which shares an 800-volt architecture with the 5, will have a dual-motor, all-wheel-drive powertrain that pumps out 884 horses and be able to zip from zero to 60 mph in 3.2 seconds. Polestar has released two prior BST models based on the&nbsp;<a href="https://robbreport.com/motors/cars/first-drive-electric-polestar-2-1234634920/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">2</a>, the&nbsp;<a href="https://robbreport.com/motors/cars/first-drive-polestar-2-bst-edition-1234779625/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Edition 270</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.polestar.com/us/polestar-2-bst-edition-230/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">230</a>, which were both more potent than the EV they’re based on so it wouldn’t be all that surprising if this one is too.



<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/2024/07/conceptbst03-copy-1024x683.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234789472" style="width:840px;height:auto" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/conceptbst03-copy-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/conceptbst03-copy-300x200.jpg 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/conceptbst03-copy-768x512.jpg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/conceptbst03-copy-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/conceptbst03-copy-2048x1365.jpg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Image courtesy of Polestar</figcaption></figure>



Unfortunately, the Concept BST is strictly a one-off at this point. Though the car completed the 1.2-mile hill climb at Goodwood, there are no plans to put it into production—yet. Polestar plans to build just 500 examples of the 6 at first, but should production be extended it would not be surprising to see a high-performance BST model at some point.

car model

Concept BST

polestar

sports car

Polestar’s New Concept Is an All-Electric Convertible Built for Speed

It may not be a race car, but&nbsp;<a href="https://robbreport.com/tag/red-bull/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Red Bull</a>’s new&nbsp;<a href="https://robbreport.com/tag/hypercar/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">hypercar</a>&nbsp;is just about the next best thing.



The six-time Formula 1 Constructors’s Champion unveiled the&nbsp;<a href="https://robbreport.com/motors/cars/red-bulls-first-car-will-be-an-f1-style-racer-with-two-seats-1234695023/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">eagerly anticipated RB17</a>&nbsp;at the Goodwood Festival of Speed on Friday. The ultra-lightweight speed machine was designed by the legendary Adrian Newey and features a hybrid assisted V-10 that spits out 1,200 horses.



It’s little surprise that Red Bull’s first customer car is a track-only monster. The RB17, which was first announced in 2022, does nothing to hide its motorsports roots. It looks like an F1 car that’s outfitted with a curvaceous carbon-composite body with cut-outs that show off the skeleton-like structure beneath. The exterior bold lines flow from front to back across the swollen fenders topping its 18-inch wheel (larger 20-inch rims are available as an option), the bubble cockpit with room for two, and the sizeable rear wing that sits above the gigantic spaceship-like diffuser. It’s not quite as hardcore as the Bugatti Bolide, but it can safely be called extreme. Red Bull also claims the vehicle’s striking shape will produce 3,747 pounds of downforce.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full is-resized"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1200" height="675" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/rb1702.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234789409" style="width:840px;height:auto" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/rb1702.webp 1200w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/rb1702-300x169.webp 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/rb1702-1024x576.webp 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/rb1702-768x432.webp 768w" sizes="(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Red Bull RB17. Image courtesy of Red Bull</figcaption></figure>



The RB17 doesn’t just look like something that will go fast. It was specifically developed and engineered to F1-quality lap times. The car is powered by a hybrid setup that includes a <a href="https://robbreport.com/motors/cars/red-bull-racing-rb17-hypercar-v-10-engine-1235495414/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">mid-mounted naturally aspirated 4.5-litre V-10</a> and a drivetrain-mounted electric motor that combines to generate 1,200 hp, which is sent to the rear axle via a six-speed sequential gearbox. Even more impressive might be the mill’s 15,000 rpm redline, all but ensuring the car will scream around the track. Top speed is said to be a very respectable 217 mph.



Red Bull’s hypercar features an adjustable pushrod suspension with active height and ride control. There’s a lift mode in case you need to navigate over some rough asphalt before hitting the track. The vehicle is also equipped with hydraulically assisted power steering and ceramic brakes.



The most impressive thing about the RB17 may be its weight. Thanks to a carbon-composite chassis and gearbox the car somehow tips the scales at less than 1,984 pounds. That makes the vehicle a little over 200 pounds heavier than Red Bull’s current F1 entrant, the RB20. It also means the car’s aerodynamic shape and elements produce almost twice as much downforce as the vehicle’s actual weight.



Red Bull’s press release doesn’t mention how much the RB17 is, but <a href="https://www.autoblog.com/2024/07/12/red-bull-rb17-hypercar-unveiled-1200-hp-naturally-aspirated-v10-redlines-at-15000-rpm/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Autoblog reports</a> that the car carries a US$6.4 million (HK$49.9 million) price tag. Don’t worry about gathering the funds to buy the track beast, though. The entire 50-car production run has already sold out.

Red Bull

Red Bull’s First Hypercar Is a Track-Only 1,200 Horsepower Beast

As I look over the releases from Watches &amp; Wonders this year, I am struck by the general conservatism of the collections. This isn’t a bad thing—perhaps even an improvement over the predominance of<a href="https://robbreport.com/style/watch-collector/best-new-watches-2023-watches-and-wonders-1234822739/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"> Liberace-ready watches offered in Geneva last year</a>. Amid this year’s restraint, however, what’s jumping out for 2024 is the sheer imagination and—I’ll just say it—wondrousness of the watches coming from brands that have traditionally, though not exclusively, catered to women. Watches from Cartier, Chanel, Chopard, Hermès, and Van Cleef &amp; Arpels are blowing our minds.



For too long, watch aficionados have dismissed collections aimed at women as unserious. If you’re catching a whiff of gender trouble here, follow your nose. <a href="https://robbreport.com/style/watch-collector/watches-fashion-gender-1235569136/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">We’ve recently explored this dynamic in detail elsewhere</a>, but to sum it up: Jewellery and fashion have long been women’s turf and highly complicated mechanical watches have long been men’s turf. That passé attitude is shifting. But it’s not just the 21st century’s blurring of gender identities or the rise of dude-bling that’s causing the change; it’s also the imaginative use of highly complicated mechanical works in collections aimed at women.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="1024" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Van-Cleef-Arpels-Summer-Breeze-2024.webp" alt="Van Cleef Arpels’s Brise d’Été" class="wp-image-1234787217" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Van-Cleef-Arpels-Summer-Breeze-2024.webp 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Van-Cleef-Arpels-Summer-Breeze-2024-300x300.webp 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Van-Cleef-Arpels-Summer-Breeze-2024-150x150.webp 150w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Van-Cleef-Arpels-Summer-Breeze-2024-768x768.webp 768w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Van Cleef &amp; Arpels’s Brise d’Été is a masterpiece of mechanical engineering. Image courtesy of Van Cleef &amp; Arpels</figcaption></figure>



I’m prone to gazing at the backside of a Lange Datograph with a loupe magnifier and experiencing sustained awe, but I am profoundly more wonderstruck when gazing on <a href="https://robbreport.com/style/watch-collector/gallery/new-watches-watches-wonders-2024-1235570773/van-cleef-arpels-brise-dete/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Van Cleef &amp; Arpels’s brand-new Brise d’Été</a> in action. This watch sends butterflies around the dial as violets dance in an imaginary breeze for 12 seconds before returning those tiny lepidoptera to display the time on a retrograde scale. Seriously? That’s way cooler than watching yet another chronograph total up the time I’m wasting watching it do so.



I don’t quite understand why some of us watch nerds will obsess over anglage—also known as chamfering or bevelling—found on a flat metal plate, but we will waltz past something like the dial on <a href="https://robbreport.com/style/watch-collector/gallery/new-watches-watches-wonders-2024-1235570773/chopard-watches-wonders-novelties-2024-10/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Chopard’s new Imperiale 36 mm watch</a>. This dial is at least 20 times more interesting—not to mention more difficult to create—than a well-cut corner on a rhodium-plated brass disc.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="1024" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Chopard-Imperiale-2024.webp" alt="Chopard Imperiale for 2024." class="wp-image-1234787218" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Chopard-Imperiale-2024.webp 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Chopard-Imperiale-2024-300x300.webp 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Chopard-Imperiale-2024-150x150.webp 150w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Chopard-Imperiale-2024-768x768.webp 768w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Chopard Imperiale for 2024. Image courtesy of Chopard</figcaption></figure>



I will quote from <a href="https://robbreport.com/style/watch-collector/gallery/new-watches-watches-wonders-2024-1235570773/chopard-watches-wonders-novelties-2024-12/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">my colleague Carol Besler’s description of the Chopard Imperiale</a>, because she put it so well: “The dial… is covered with a blue-green enamel background, dotted with a perfectly uniform pattern of white enamel and pink mother-of-pearl marquetry flowers. The centre of each white flower is set with an orange padparadscha sapphire and each pink flower with a diamond. The flowers and centre gems are surrounded by rims of 18-carat white gold, raised slightly above the dial. The resulting pattern mimics the quatrefoil floral motif in Venetian architecture, particularly in the Doges Palace.”



I’ve discussed at considerable length whether Seiko has accurately reproduced the exact grey of the 1965 62MAS dive watch dial for its US$1,100 (HK$8,615) homage, but the Chopard dial here actually deserves a lengthy discussion. In fact, this watch makes me want to learn more about how it’s made. If you care even a little about the handcraft coming out of the birthplace of Swiss watchmaking, Fleurier, then better not to waltz past this Imperiale from Chopard.



It’s not that watches like <a href="https://robbreport.com/style/watch-collector/gallery/new-watches-watches-wonders-2024-1235570773/iwc-portugieser-eternal-calendar_cdf1fa/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">IWC’s Eternal Calendar</a> aren’t blowing minds. In this new release, IWC has employed a massive gear that skips three leap years over four centuries to account for orbital anomalies, and the moon phase display only misses one day every 45 million years. That’s bonkers. But the IWC which has mastered leap years doesn’t really leap out when compared to Hermès’s Arceau Chorus Stellarum, which sends a skeleton horse and rider literally leaping across its dial.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="1024" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Hermes-Arceau-Chorus-Stellarum-2024.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234787220" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Hermes-Arceau-Chorus-Stellarum-2024.webp 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Hermes-Arceau-Chorus-Stellarum-2024-300x300.webp 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Hermes-Arceau-Chorus-Stellarum-2024-150x150.webp 150w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Hermes-Arceau-Chorus-Stellarum-2024-768x768.webp 768w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Hermès Arceau Chorus Stellarum 2024. Image courtesy of Hermès</figcaption></figure>



Here I will refer you my colleague Victoria Gomelsky: “A pusher at 9 o’clock activates an animation in which the skeleton horse and rider—embodied in mobile yellow-gold appliqués, engraved and painted by hand—prance around the champlevé enamel dial whose colourful lacquer-coated motifs are adorned with applied rhodium-plated stars.”



The complications driving that horse around the dial would be enough to keep most mechanical watch nerds up at night with an illuminated loupe, but when coupled to the animation of a famous Hermès scarf designed by the Japanese illustrator Daiske Nomura, we’re looking not only at a triumph of mechanics but of aesthetics, imagination, and—to the extent that we care—creative brand extension with a cosmopolitan twist. Hermès is on fire this year.



Cartier, meanwhile, has returned to its roots by delivering<a href="https://robbreport.com/style/watch-collector/gallery/new-watches-watches-wonders-2024-1235570773/cartier-santos-group-2/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"> fresh versions of the Santos</a> and revisiting <a href="https://robbreport.com/style/watch-collector/gallery/new-watches-watches-wonders-2024-1235570773/cartier-santos-group-2/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">its historically oriented Privé collection with some traditional Tortue offerings</a>, which are just lovely. But if you want to be bowled over, you’ll have to check out Cartier’s bejewelled timepieces.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="1024" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Cartier-Panther-Watch-2024.webp" alt="Cartier Panther Watch 2024." class="wp-image-1234787221" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Cartier-Panther-Watch-2024.webp 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Cartier-Panther-Watch-2024-300x300.webp 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Cartier-Panther-Watch-2024-150x150.webp 150w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Cartier-Panther-Watch-2024-768x768.webp 768w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Cartier Panther Watch 2024. Image courtesy of Cartier</figcaption></figure>



The famous Panthère is joined by an alligator in this year’s Animals collection, and while these creatures wrap themselves around a somewhat banal quartz movement (found in a majority of Cartier’s watches), the gem setting here ought to cause those who care about hand-cut metal micro-architectures to stop and consider what’s going on beneath the pavement. We’re looking at rhodium-finished white gold cut by hand to hold hundreds of top-grade tourmalines, sapphires, emeralds, diamonds, rhodolite garnets, spessartite garnets, and onyx. The technical skill of setting those stones in on par with, if not beyond, the finest horological handiwork.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="1024" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Cartier-Alligator-Watch-2024.webp" alt="Cartier Alligator Watch 2024." class="wp-image-1234787222" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Cartier-Alligator-Watch-2024.webp 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Cartier-Alligator-Watch-2024-300x300.webp 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Cartier-Alligator-Watch-2024-150x150.webp 150w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Cartier-Alligator-Watch-2024-768x768.webp 768w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Cartier Alligator Watch 2024. Image courtesy of Cartier</figcaption></figure>



If Cartier isn’t convincing you that high mechanical art is on offer from feminine-leaning brands this year, we need only wander back over to Van Cleef &amp; Arpels and consider their museum-grade clocks. The decorative craftsmanship alone astounds, but these clocks also perform jaw-dropping mechanical automations. With the <a href="https://robbreport.com/style/watch-collector/gallery/new-watches-watches-wonders-2024-1235570773/rr_watches_and_wonders_2024_van-cleef-arpels-apparition-des-baies-automaton/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Apparition des Baies</a>, a crown of leaves opens to reveal a bird which takes flight as music chimes from within; when it’s all over, the bird lands and the leaves fold back up around it.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/RR_Watches_And_Wonders_2024_Van-Cleef-Arpels-Apparition-Des-Baies-Automaton.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234787223" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/RR_Watches_And_Wonders_2024_Van-Cleef-Arpels-Apparition-Des-Baies-Automaton.webp 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/RR_Watches_And_Wonders_2024_Van-Cleef-Arpels-Apparition-Des-Baies-Automaton-300x169.webp 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/RR_Watches_And_Wonders_2024_Van-Cleef-Arpels-Apparition-Des-Baies-Automaton-768x432.webp 768w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Van Cleef &amp; Arpels Apparition Des Baies Automaton. Image courtesy of Van Cleef &amp; Arpels</figcaption></figure>



Even more remarkable is the <a href="https://robbreport.com/style/watch-collector/gallery/new-watches-watches-wonders-2024-1235570773/rr_watches_and_wonders_2024_van-cleef-arpels-bouton-dor-automaton/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Bouton d’Or.</a> Van Cleef &amp; Arpels’s own description really captures what we’re seeing here: “A fairy, her face suggested by a rose-cut diamond, crowned with diamonds, and clad in a flamboyant rose-gold gown trimmed with blue lacquer, pirouettes in an enchanted dance upon a blooming flowerbed. She twirls thanks to the beating of her plique-à-jour enamel wings, delicately clasping a briolette-cut sapphire between her fingers.”



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/RR_Watches_And_Wonders_2024_Van-Cleef-Arpels-Bouton-dOr-Automaton.webp" alt="Van Cleef &amp; Arpels Bouton d’Or Automaton." class="wp-image-1234787224" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/RR_Watches_And_Wonders_2024_Van-Cleef-Arpels-Bouton-dOr-Automaton.webp 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/RR_Watches_And_Wonders_2024_Van-Cleef-Arpels-Bouton-dOr-Automaton-300x169.webp 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/RR_Watches_And_Wonders_2024_Van-Cleef-Arpels-Bouton-dOr-Automaton-768x432.webp 768w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Van Cleef &amp; Arpels Bouton d’Or Automaton. Image courtesy of Van Cleef &amp; Arpels</figcaption></figure>



Just to be clear: The fairy turns because it beats its wings. I still love the Lange Datograph, but come on…



Admittedly, some of those watches appear a little on the traditional side of high horological art, but Chanel has countered with two Boyfriend models that display their beautiful mechanical systems as remarkably as any of the big skeletonised offerings this year. Meet the Chanel Boy-Friend Skeleton X-Ray Pink with a transparent sapphire case and the Skeleton Pink with an 18-carat beige-gold case set with 38 baguette-cut pink sapphires. The exposed Calibre 3 is an in-house manual-winding mechanical skeleton movement. No unexposed quartz or second-tier auto-winder here. This is manual high horology on full display.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="1024" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Chanel-Pink-Tanks.webp" alt="Chanel Boy-Friend Skeleton X-Ray Pink (L) and Skeleton Pink (R)." class="wp-image-1234787225" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Chanel-Pink-Tanks.webp 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Chanel-Pink-Tanks-300x300.webp 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Chanel-Pink-Tanks-150x150.webp 150w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Chanel-Pink-Tanks-768x768.webp 768w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Chanel Boy-Friend Skeleton X-Ray Pink (left) and Skeleton Pink (right). Image courtesy of Chanel</figcaption></figure>



Because of the gracefully laid-out gear train that harmonises visually with the timepiece’s ever-so-subtly branded skeletonised dial, this watch outshines every open-worked or skeletonised watch I’ve seen this year. Seriously, I just looked again to make sure I wasn’t overstating my point, and Chanel has them all beat. Each of these Boyfriend Skeleton Pink watches is offered in a limited edition of just 55 pieces and features a quilted leather strap. (By the way, why aren’t there more quilted leather straps? That’s so chic.)



If it seems as if we are stating the obvious—that a flurry of sparkling gems and high handcraft outshines traditionally styled men’s watches—perhaps it bears mentioning that the timepieces we’ve selected here are neither entirely bejewelled nor are they the only bejewelled watches to be found at Watches &amp; Wonders this year. Not even close, given the recent rise of bling. The point, we hope, is subtler: There is a creative freedom explored and expressed among these brands that have historically created watches for women. Their sense of whimsy and their ability to realise it in metal and stone has been hard-earned through consistent effort, decade after decade—which isn’t an entirely inaccurate definition of the horological arts.

Cartier

Chanel

Chopard

Hermès

Van Cleef & Arpels

Watches & Wonders

What the Watch World Could Learn From This Year’s Daring, Wondrous Women’s Collections

Arts Month Hong Kong

Bulgari

Hermes

Louis Vuitton

Luxury watches

Patek Philippe

Vacheron Constantin

Wearable Art

Arts Month 2024: 14 Stunning Luxury Watches That Double as Wearable Art

Following on the heels of <a href="https://robbreport.com/style/watch-collector/lists/audemars-piguet-new-watches-royal-oak-mini-1235632777/royal-oak-mini-frosted-gold/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">the May release of multiple Royal Oaks</a>, <a href="https://robbreport.com/tag/audemars-piguet/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Audemars Piguet</a> is back with a <a href="https://robbreport.com/tag/41-mm/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">41 mm</a> self-winding <a href="https://robbreport.com/tag/openworked/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">openworked</a> offering, now in three striking case and bracelet materials. Stainless steel is going to resonate with the traditionalists, the yellow gold with those who like a louder wrist flex, and black ceramic will offer up a stealthy, futuristic vibe.



We’ve been <a href="https://robbreport.com/style/watch-collector/gallery/shopping-time-audemars-piguet-royal-oak-prices-are-dropping-fast-heres-5-you-can-buy-right-now-1235684745/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">reporting that Royal Oaks are coming down in price</a> on the pre-owned and <a href="https://robbreport.com/style/watch-collector/neo-vintage-watches-how-to-collect-them-1235624589/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">neo-vintage</a> market, and we’ve even just published <a href="https://robbreport.com/style/watch-collector/audemars-piguets-royal-oak-history-1234669410/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">a brief history of the “RO.”</a> The <a href="https://robbreport.com/tag/royal-oak/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Royal Oak</a> was originally penned by acclaimed designer <a href="https://robbreport.com/style/watch-collector/gerald-genta-2864111/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Gerald Genta</a>, who singlehandedly revolutionised the sports watch market.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="555" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Audemars-Piguet-Royal-Oak-Openworked-41-mm-1024x555.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234789172" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Audemars-Piguet-Royal-Oak-Openworked-41-mm-1024x555.webp 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Audemars-Piguet-Royal-Oak-Openworked-41-mm-300x163.webp 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Audemars-Piguet-Royal-Oak-Openworked-41-mm-768x416.webp 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Audemars-Piguet-Royal-Oak-Openworked-41-mm.webp 1200w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Openworked 41 mm in stainless steel. Image courtesy of Audemars Piguet</figcaption></figure>



Audemars Piguet is sometimes said to have a hard time getting past its <a href="https://www.google.com/search?q=patek+royal+oak+robb+report&amp;rlz=1C5GCEM_enUS1103US1104&amp;oq=patek+royal+oak+robb+report&amp;gs_lcrp=EgZjaHJvbWUyCQgAEEUYORigATIGCAEQRRg8MgYIAhBFGDwyBggDEEUYPNIBCDQzNDdqMWo3qAIAsAIA&amp;sourceid=chrome&amp;ie=UTF-8" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">strong association with the Royal Oak</a>, but this doesn’t seem to be hurting the brand whatsoever. As expert collector and vintage dealer at <a href="http://shift/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Analog:Shift</a>, <a href="https://robbreport.com/style/watch-collector/slideshow/5-dapper-vintage-timepieces-from-the-analog-shift-x-j-press-pop-up/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">James Lamdin</a>, told us last week, “The brand is still in demand, and so [the Royal Oak] is still hard to get at the boutiques.” This situation may not come as a surprise to experienced collectors of the Royal Oak, though this new iteration may be especially difficult to get one’s hands on, as it’s at what many consider a perfect size (41 mm) with just enough technology (dual-barrel calibre 3132) and flash (openworked dial) to sing on the wrist.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="555" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Royal-Oak-Openworked-41mm-Black-Ceramic-and-Yellow-Gold-1024x555.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234789173" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Royal-Oak-Openworked-41mm-Black-Ceramic-and-Yellow-Gold-1024x555.webp 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Royal-Oak-Openworked-41mm-Black-Ceramic-and-Yellow-Gold-300x163.webp 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Royal-Oak-Openworked-41mm-Black-Ceramic-and-Yellow-Gold-768x416.webp 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Royal-Oak-Openworked-41mm-Black-Ceramic-and-Yellow-Gold.webp 1200w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Openworked 41 mm in black ceramic (left) and yellow gold. Image courtesy of Audemars Piguet</figcaption></figure>



Especially attractive here is the rose gold movement in the steel and ceramic versions. Rose gold from Audemars Piguet is especially warm due to its copper content. Against the steel, you’ve got a unique <a href="https://robbreport.hk/posts/two-tone-watches-are-having-a-comeback-here-are-5-worth-buying" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">bi-metal</a> (or <a href="https://robbreport.com/style/watch-collector/gallery/two-tone-watches-1235484110/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">two-tone</a>) sensibility, and against the black ceramic that rose-gold movement seems to blossom like a midnight flower. Both are very chic. But it may be the yellow gold iteration that comes closest to classic Royal Oak vibes, with the long-used 18-carat case and bracelet featuring a much quieter rhodium-plated movement that’s all smoke and shadow.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="619" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/image-1024x619.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234789174" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/image-1024x619.webp 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/image-300x181.webp 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/image-768x464.webp 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/image-1536x929.webp 1536w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/image.webp 1882w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">The dual balance wheel mechanism of calibre 3132 helps stabilise the balance staff in its ruby mount, which improves precision. Image courtesy of Audemars Piguet</figcaption></figure>



Calibre 3132 employs a dual balance wheel, which is a unique approach to minimising the tilt of the balance staff (the axil on which the balance wheel oscillates back and forth). When the balance wheel swings, there is a tendency for it to tilt within its ruby mount, which allows gravity to have its way with it, causing timing discrepancies in different positions (known as positional variance). By adding a second balance wheel (not just a second spring, as found in some movements), Audemars Piguet has added stabilising mass to the mechanism, as well as counter-force that steadies the balance staff as it changes direction, according to Audemars Piguet.



Prices are US$76,400 (HK$596,650) for stainless, and US$101,100 (HK$789,545) for either the ceramic or yellow-gold model.

Audemars Piguet

Royal Oak

Audemars Piguet Just Unveiled 3 New Openworked Royal Oaks

One of <a href="https://robbreport.com/tag/omega/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Omega</a>’s most iconic watches is finally getting the <a href="https://robbreport.com/tag/two-tone/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">two-tone</a> treatment.



The <a href="https://robbreport.com/tag/speedmaster/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Speedmaster</a> <a href="https://robbreport.com/tag/moonwatch/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Moonwatch</a> chronograph has long inhabited an exalted place as the modern iteration of the watch NASA issued to astronauts back in the 1960s. But Omega hasn’t kept this model down to Earth in any sense of the phrase: Omega has rendered the Moonwatch in solid gold. It has upgraded the manually wound calibre 3861 as a METAS-certified chronometer. And Omega even reissued the original calibre 321 movement (no small feat) inside a platinum version of the Moonwatch. In retrospect, it seems as if these two new two-tone models are late to launch.



These are most certainly not the first two-tone Speedmasters (a number of references litter the pre-owned market), but it is the first time the modern Speedmaster Moonwatch has been offered in bi-colour metals. At 42 mm, the two new versions use either Moonshine Gold (yellow) or Sedna Gold (red) in the classic two-tone configuration with stainless steel.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="555" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/Omega-Speedmaster-Moonwatch-Two-Tone-Angle-Duo.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234788518" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/Omega-Speedmaster-Moonwatch-Two-Tone-Angle-Duo.webp 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/Omega-Speedmaster-Moonwatch-Two-Tone-Angle-Duo-300x163.webp 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/Omega-Speedmaster-Moonwatch-Two-Tone-Angle-Duo-768x416.webp 768w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Image courtesy of Omega</figcaption></figure>



For those who have not seen the Sedna Gold in person, it renders accurately in digital images (unlike so many pink-and-red gold mixtures). You can expect a deeper red gold, indicating the higher copper content of the formula. Moonshine Gold is a rich yellow gold, not super saturated, but when held next to more common yellow gold alloys, it appears richer. Both golds are quite lovely, and both have become signatures for Omega in recent years.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="555" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/Omega-Speedmaster-Moonwatch-Two-Tone-rose-Gold-Close.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234788517" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/Omega-Speedmaster-Moonwatch-Two-Tone-rose-Gold-Close.webp 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/Omega-Speedmaster-Moonwatch-Two-Tone-rose-Gold-Close-300x163.webp 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/Omega-Speedmaster-Moonwatch-Two-Tone-rose-Gold-Close-768x416.webp 768w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Image courtesy of Omega</figcaption></figure>



These gold colours obviously matter a great deal for these models, and the alloys lend each offering a rather distinctive look. These differences are emphasised by the dial configurations, with the Sedna Gold model using a classic “panda” configuration with black sub-dials, and the Moonshine Gold model offering a far airier visage with a silver dial and yellow gold sub-dials. To my eye, the two models are equally compelling, but I might be drawn to the Sedna Gold version for both its uniqueness as a two-tone model and for offering a salmon (or gilded) dial. Salmon chronographs have long been creations of high horology (Patek reference 130s and Vacheron 4072s come to mind), and there is something quite elevated about a Speedmaster with a pink gilded dial.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="555" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/Omega-Speedmaster-Moonwatch-Two-Tone-Yellow-Gold-Close.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234788516" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/Omega-Speedmaster-Moonwatch-Two-Tone-Yellow-Gold-Close.webp 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/Omega-Speedmaster-Moonwatch-Two-Tone-Yellow-Gold-Close-300x163.webp 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/Omega-Speedmaster-Moonwatch-Two-Tone-Yellow-Gold-Close-768x416.webp 768w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Image courtesy of Omega</figcaption></figure>



Intriguingly, these are the first Moonwatch Speedies to use Omega’s Ceragold for the bezel insert. Other Moonwatch models use a traditional aluminium bezel insert as found on the original Speedmasters, but here we have scratch-proof black ceramic with Ceragold printing. It’s an upgrade of sorts, one that is in keeping with these elevated two-tone models, but perhaps would be less appropriate on the full stainless models. We will keep an eye out for this bezel upgrade across the Moonwatch line.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="555" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/Omega-Speedmaster-Moonwatch-Two-Tone-Rear-View.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234788515" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/Omega-Speedmaster-Moonwatch-Two-Tone-Rear-View.webp 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/Omega-Speedmaster-Moonwatch-Two-Tone-Rear-View-300x163.webp 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/Omega-Speedmaster-Moonwatch-Two-Tone-Rear-View-768x416.webp 768w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Image courtesy of Omega</figcaption></figure>



The movement, calibre 3861, is on full view behind the clear case-back window. This manually wound mechanism is a descendant of the original calibre 321, and the finishing and precision are impressive—as is always the case when Omega showcases their movements through clear crystals.



Both models are priced at US$18,100 (HK$141,385).

Moonwatch

Omega

Speedmaster

Omega’s Beloved Moonwatch Is Now Available in Two-Tone

Still flying under the radar, but gaining in popularity among the most discerning collectors, <a href="https://robbreport.com/tag/parmigiani/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Parmigiani</a> Fleurier has slowly updated its sports watch catalogue since 2021 when the Swiss brand introduced <a href="https://robbreport.com/style/watch-collector/parmigiani-fleurier-tonda-pf-sport-1234857775/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">the “PF” line of watches</a>. These PF models replaced previous versions, as is the case with the PF <a href="https://robbreport.com/tag/tonda/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Tonda</a> Sport <a href="https://robbreport.com/tag/chronograph/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Chronograph</a>, which stepped in for the <a href="https://robbreport.com/style/watch-collector/parmigiani-tondagraph-gt-hands-on-review-2940379/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">previous Tonda GT Line</a>. This most recent refresh of the Tonda Sport Chronograph brings a fresh trio of luxurious colours.



These new models feel very much on trend with <a href="https://robbreport.com/style/watch-collector/gallery/from-grand-seiko-to-parmigiani-pale-green-watch-dials-are-low-key-killing-it-right-now-1235586760/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">paler shades making the rounds</a> these days, as well as with the rest of<a href="https://robbreport.com/style/watch-collector/gallery/new-watches-watches-wonders-2024-1235570773/parmigiani-fleurier-tonda-pf-micro-rotor-_e8354c/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"> the 2024 Parmigiani catalogue</a>, which blew us away at <a href="https://robbreport.com/style/watch-collector/gallery/new-watches-watches-wonders-2024-1235570773/a-lange-sohne-datograph-perpetual-tourbillon-honeygold-lumen-2/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Watches and Wonders</a> this year. Parmigiani is calling these new colours Milano Blue, Arctic Grey, and London Grey, names evocative of entirely different locations united by a sense of adventure and/or sophistication. But what makes these new Tonda Sport Chronographs so special are rather subtle upgrades.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="1024" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/Parmigiani-Macro-Tonda-Chronograph-2024.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234788321" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/Parmigiani-Macro-Tonda-Chronograph-2024.webp 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/Parmigiani-Macro-Tonda-Chronograph-2024-300x300.webp 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/Parmigiani-Macro-Tonda-Chronograph-2024-150x150.webp 150w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/Parmigiani-Macro-Tonda-Chronograph-2024-768x768.webp 768w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Image courtesy of Parmigiani Fleurier</figcaption></figure>



Consider, for example, the new guillouché dial, which refines the previous engraving pattern with a subtler clou triangulaire pattern. This new pattern is akin to a clous de Paris dial, also made of pyramids, which Audemars Piguet would call a tapisserie dial. But putting French semantics aside, we can agree that this Parmigiani guillouché pattern breathes more than the chunkier pyramid-grid dials out there, lending the watch a quietness that suits the desaturated colourways.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="1024" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/Parmigiani-Fleurier-Chronograph-Tonda-Black-and-Rose-Gold-2024.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234788320" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/Parmigiani-Fleurier-Chronograph-Tonda-Black-and-Rose-Gold-2024.webp 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/Parmigiani-Fleurier-Chronograph-Tonda-Black-and-Rose-Gold-2024-300x300.webp 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/Parmigiani-Fleurier-Chronograph-Tonda-Black-and-Rose-Gold-2024-150x150.webp 150w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/Parmigiani-Fleurier-Chronograph-Tonda-Black-and-Rose-Gold-2024-768x768.webp 768w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Image courtesy of Parmigiani Fleurier</figcaption></figure>



Further distinguishing these chronographs is the movement. Calibre PF-070 is crafted in-house, and the beat rate of five Hz lends 10th of a second precision, a smoother sweep of the seconds hand on the sub-dial as well as the central timing hand, and—most would agree—improved precision. Rather impressively, the movement still provides 65-hours of power reserve, despite burning through power at a greater frequency than most mechanical watch movements do.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="1024" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/Parmigiani-Macro-Tonda-Chronograph-2024-Back-1.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234788322" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/Parmigiani-Macro-Tonda-Chronograph-2024-Back-1.webp 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/Parmigiani-Macro-Tonda-Chronograph-2024-Back-1-300x300.webp 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/Parmigiani-Macro-Tonda-Chronograph-2024-Back-1-150x150.webp 150w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/Parmigiani-Macro-Tonda-Chronograph-2024-Back-1-768x768.webp 768w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Image courtesy of Parmigiani Fleurier</figcaption></figure>



None of that may interest the person who is buying this watch to luxuriate in its immaculate elegance, and instead may turn their interest to the solid-gold oscillating weight that imitates the steering wheel of a Ferrari 250 GTO, one of the most beautiful and iconic cars of all time. A watch like the Tonda Sports Chronograph seems perfectly suited to unabashedly luxurious driving experiences, including the inevitable long lunch, glamorous destinations and high-end accommodations surely to appear on the roster when cruising in a vintage air-cooled Ferrari—or the latest electronic super car.



The watches come in satin stainless steel in the new colourways at US$30,000 (HK$234,520), or 18-carat rose gold at US$50,000 (HK$390,865).

Parmigiani Fleurier

Tonda PF

Tonda PF Sport

Parmigiani Fleurier Unveils New Tonda PF Sport Chronographs

As I approached the sidewalk lined with café tables outside <a href="https://robbreport.com/travel/hotels/slideshow/8-hotels-where-youll-mingle-with-the-new-york-fashion-week-jet-set/the-mark/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">The Mark Hotel</a> in Manhattan’s Upper East Side, I instantly felt chic. Given that I’m not prone to feeling especially chic—and that this was happening at nine o’clock in the morning before I had even stepped inside—I think it’s fair to say that this five-star hotel had well exceeded its intended goal of providing guests with an elevated experience.



The black and white stripes on the canvas umbrellas outside extend onto the polished floor of the lobby. The stripes remain the signature motif of the 1927 interior, which was refreshed in the early aughts by the renowned French designer <a href="https://robbreport.com/shelter/home-design/own-a-piece-of-karl-lagerfelds-mad-geniusand-other-bespoke-creations-2790967/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Jaques Granges</a>.



Heels resounded with percussive elegance off that striped floor as the ubiquitously gorgeous hosts—whose perfect cheekbones suggested they’d all been hired through a modelling agency—greeted us with a comfortable deference. By the time they’d escorted my colleague Sebastien and me to a room inside The Mark’s <a href="https://robbreport.com/food-drink/dining/slideshow/five-top-michelin-starred-restaurants-dining-out-thanksgiving-slideshow/jean-georges-2/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Jean-Georges</a> restaurant, we were in a proper frame of mind for wearing <a href="https://robbreport.com/style/watch-collector/gallery/all-of-rolexs-new-watches-from-watches-wonders-1235575848/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">the latest Rolexes</a>.



<a href="https://robbreport.com/style/watch-collector/gallery/watches-wonders-editors-picks-2024-1235578641/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Our editorial team</a> had spent some time with the <a href="https://robbreport.com/tag/2024/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">2024</a> <a href="https://robbreport.com/tag/rolex/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Rolex</a> collection at <a href="https://robbreport.com/style/watch-collector/gallery/new-watches-watches-wonders-2024-1235570773/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Watches and Wonders</a> last month, but there is a big difference between the relatively brief “touch and feel” sessions inside a bustling trade show and hanging out at a swanky hotel sipping perfectly crafted cappuccinos while luxuriating with these watches. Sebastien and I settled into the caffeinated good vibes and spent some quality time with this year’s <a href="https://robbreport.com/style/watch-collector/rolex-acting-like-rolex-again-1235577443/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">perfectly restrained Rolex collection</a>. Below are the watches we loved the most.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="1024" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/Rolex-2024-Collection-3-1-1024x1024.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234788197" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/Rolex-2024-Collection-3-1-1024x1024.jpg 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/Rolex-2024-Collection-3-1-300x300.jpg 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/Rolex-2024-Collection-3-1-150x150.jpg 150w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/Rolex-2024-Collection-3-1-768x768.jpg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/Rolex-2024-Collection-3-1.jpg 1200w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">40 mm Day-Date in Rose Gold With Ombré Dial</h3>



When will I ever learn that my preconceptions about watches (and most things, really) rarely hold up. I’m a 36 mm Rolex guy, not 40 mm. I like Rolex’s yellow gold, not its rose gold. I don’t do Roman numerals, only Arabic. Sure enough, the 40 mm rose gold <a href="https://robbreport.com/tag/day-date/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Day-Date</a> with the inexplicably gorgeous ombré dial and “deconstructed” Roman numerals (made of separate gold pieces) whisked away my preconceptions as swiftly as Adonis (the bus boy) whisked away the crumb-covered cocktail napkins I kept discarding onto the black lacquered side table otherwise littered with sparkling Rolexes.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/Rolex-2024-Collection-6-1024x576.jpeg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234788198" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/Rolex-2024-Collection-6-1024x576.jpeg 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/Rolex-2024-Collection-6-300x169.jpeg 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/Rolex-2024-Collection-6-768x432.jpeg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/Rolex-2024-Collection-6.jpeg 1200w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Sebastien is especially fond of rose gold, and we can see why. Image courtesy of Allen Farmelo</figcaption></figure>



This is the Day-Date Rolex <a href="https://robbreport.com/style/watch-collector/rolex-new-day-date-40-oscars-reveal-1235542715/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">soft-released during The Oscars</a> this year, and the dial astounds. Ombré refers to a technique of gently fading colour from one hue to another, usually light to dark. How—or if—an ombré dial is meaningfully different from a fumé (smoked) dial or a dégradé (shaded) dial isn’t entirely clear. However, having seen my share of dials with these faded effects, the ombré from Rolex is by far the best. This dial shimmers and shines and moves and dances (and all the other analogy-making verbs you can think of) but it’s somehow also black. Amazing.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="1024" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/Rolex-2024-Collection-2-1024x1024.jpeg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234788199" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/Rolex-2024-Collection-2-1024x1024.jpeg 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/Rolex-2024-Collection-2-300x300.jpeg 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/Rolex-2024-Collection-2-150x150.jpeg 150w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/Rolex-2024-Collection-2-768x768.jpeg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/Rolex-2024-Collection-2.jpeg 1200w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Image courtesy of Sebastien Laforest</figcaption></figure>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">40 mm 1908 in Platinum With Ice-Blue Dial</h3>



More than a few folks had chosen this 40 mm dress watch <a href="https://robbreport.com/style/watch-collector/gallery/watches-wonders-editors-picks-2024-1235578641/1908_94e4e0/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">as their favourite</a> from the 2024 Rolex collection, and it was easy to see why. Is the dial as mesmerising in person as it is in photos? Actually, not more so, no—which is a good thing, because that’s a lot of shimmering for one wrist, and any more might overpower the elegant design of this watch.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/Rolex-2024-Collection-11-1024x576.jpeg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234788200" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/Rolex-2024-Collection-11-1024x576.jpeg 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/Rolex-2024-Collection-11-300x169.jpeg 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/Rolex-2024-Collection-11-768x432.jpeg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/Rolex-2024-Collection-11.jpeg 1200w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Image courtesy of Allen Farmelo</figcaption></figure>



The brightness of the highly polished platinum is balances well with the guilloché dial. All told, this watch captures the spirit of the earliest Rolexes, while offering an entirely modern wearing experience. Really stunning.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/Rolex-2024-Collection-5-1024x576.jpeg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234788201" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/Rolex-2024-Collection-5-1024x576.jpeg 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/Rolex-2024-Collection-5-300x169.jpeg 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/Rolex-2024-Collection-5-768x432.jpeg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/Rolex-2024-Collection-5.jpeg 1200w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Image courtesy of Allen Farmelo</figcaption></figure>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">GMT Master II With Jubilee Bracelet</h3>



This is the watch that was missing from the Rolex catalog: A straightforward, steel <a href="https://robbreport.com/tag/gmt-master-ii-2/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">GMT Master II</a> without some whacky colour scheme or precious metal to weigh it down. Sebastien isn’t particularly drawn to sports watches, but when he put it on, the elegance on offer was obvious to everyone. I chose this GMT Master II as one of <a href="https://robbreport.com/style/watch-collector/gallery/the-best-sports-watches-of-1235619811/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">the best sports watches of 2024</a>.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="683" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/Rolex-2024-Collection-9-1024x683.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234788202" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/Rolex-2024-Collection-9-1024x683.webp 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/Rolex-2024-Collection-9-300x200.webp 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/Rolex-2024-Collection-9-768x512.webp 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/Rolex-2024-Collection-9.webp 1200w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Image courtesy of Allen Farmelo</figcaption></figure>



As a personal note, I have often claimed to prefer older Rollies with aluminium bezel inserts, rather than the shiny and scratch-proof Cerachrom ones Rolex produces today. However, as I said to our friends at The Mark on this fine morning, “I’m more of <a href="https://robbreport.com/style/watch-collector/lists/how-to-buy-your-first-rolex-1235609142/step-3-pick-a-four-five-or-six-digit-rolex-reference/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">a five-digit guy</a>, but every time I try on a modern Rolex, I realise they’re better in every way.” Love that pop of Rolex green, too.



<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/2024/06/Rolex-2024-Collection-10-1024x576.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234788203" style="width:840px;height:auto" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/Rolex-2024-Collection-10-1024x576.webp 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/Rolex-2024-Collection-10-300x169.webp 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/Rolex-2024-Collection-10-768x432.webp 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/Rolex-2024-Collection-10.webp 1200w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Our friend Kathleen with the lovely tattoos sports the <a href="https://robbreport.com/tag/deepsea/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Deepsea</a> in solid yellow gold. Image courtesy of Allen Farmelo</figcaption></figure>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Sold Gold Deepsea</h3>



This watch makes zero sense for so many reasons, weight chief among them. I might even declare it prohibitively heavy. But solid-gold Rolex sport watches have long been a thing, and I suppose this is just how Rolex rolls—always finding ways to merge the brand’s sporty side with its elegant side. This Deepsea is obviously the buzziest watch of the 2024 collection—more a talking point than a sincere offering to those who simply want a great watch. But it looks killer with the right tattoos, and those who tried it on made the same two points: It’s really heavy, and it looks way better on their wrist than they could have imagined. Sometimes it’s good to make zero sense.



Below are some other Rollies we got to try on for your enjoyment.



<figure class="wp-block-gallery has-nested-images columns-default is-cropped wp-block-gallery-3 is-layout-flex wp-block-gallery-is-layout-flex">
<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="900" height="600" data-id="1234788204" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/Rolex-2024-Collection-4.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234788204" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/Rolex-2024-Collection-4.webp 900w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/Rolex-2024-Collection-4-300x200.webp 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/Rolex-2024-Collection-4-768x512.webp 768w" sizes="(max-width: 900px) 100vw, 900px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Image courtesy of Allen Farmelo</figcaption></figure>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="900" height="600" data-id="1234788205" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/Rolex-2024-Collection-12.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234788205" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/Rolex-2024-Collection-12.webp 900w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/Rolex-2024-Collection-12-300x200.webp 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/Rolex-2024-Collection-12-768x512.webp 768w" sizes="(max-width: 900px) 100vw, 900px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Image courtesy of Allen Farmelo</figcaption></figure>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="900" height="600" data-id="1234788206" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/Rolex-2024-Collection-13-1.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234788206" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/Rolex-2024-Collection-13-1.webp 900w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/Rolex-2024-Collection-13-1-300x200.webp 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/Rolex-2024-Collection-13-1-768x512.webp 768w" sizes="(max-width: 900px) 100vw, 900px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Image courtesy of Allen Farmelo</figcaption></figure>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="900" height="600" data-id="1234788207" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/Rolex-2024-Collection-14.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234788207" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/Rolex-2024-Collection-14.webp 900w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/Rolex-2024-Collection-14-300x200.webp 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/Rolex-2024-Collection-14-768x512.webp 768w" sizes="(max-width: 900px) 100vw, 900px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Image courtesy of Allen Farmelo</figcaption></figure>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="900" height="600" data-id="1234788208" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/Rolex-2024-Collection-15-1.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234788208" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/Rolex-2024-Collection-15-1.webp 900w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/Rolex-2024-Collection-15-1-300x200.webp 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/Rolex-2024-Collection-15-1-768x512.webp 768w" sizes="(max-width: 900px) 100vw, 900px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Image courtesy of Allen Farmelo</figcaption></figure>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="900" height="600" data-id="1234788209" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/The-Mark-Hotel-Manhattan_dc349b.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-1234788209" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/The-Mark-Hotel-Manhattan_dc349b.webp 900w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/The-Mark-Hotel-Manhattan_dc349b-300x200.webp 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/The-Mark-Hotel-Manhattan_dc349b-768x512.webp 768w" sizes="(max-width: 900px) 100vw, 900px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">The Mark Hotel</figcaption></figure>
</figure>

Rolex

We Wore Rolex’s Best New Watches—Here Are Our Favourites

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

Voodoo Yachts has conjured up some more marine magic.



The New Zealand yard has just unveiled an innovative foil-assisted&nbsp;<a href="https://robbreport.com/tag/catamaran/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">catamaran</a>&nbsp;capable of impressive speeds. Christened the&nbsp;<a href="https://voodooyachts.com/xf95/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">XF95</a>, the new 94-footer is the sixth and largest model in Voodoo’s pioneering Xpedition Foiler range. The line also includes cats measuring 50, 59, 66, 75, and 85 feet, respectively.



“Our personal experience, and the feedback we’ve had from a wide range of our owners is that the speed, which doesn’t exist in any other adventure yachts, combined with the luxury and adventure capability provides the owners much greater freedom than with other yachts,” Mitch Pachoud, co-founder and director of Voodoo Yachts, told Robb Report via email. “With any amount of time, they have many more options regarding how they can use it.”



The newcomer takes design cues from fellow Xpedition Foilers, which have been “tested and battle-hardened in the South Pacific,” according to the yard. As with previous models, the XF95 is fitted with integrated hydrofoils amidship that lift the hulls out of the water to increase efficiency, stability, speed, and range. “Flying” over the waves results in less drag, meaning the multihull uses less fuel than a traditional yacht.



<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/2024/07/Voodoo_X953-1024x683.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234789683" style="width:840px;height:auto" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Voodoo_X953-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Voodoo_X953-300x200.jpg 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Voodoo_X953-768x512.jpg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Voodoo_X953-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Voodoo_X953-2048x1365.jpg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">The aft decks. Image courtesy of Voodoo Yachts</figcaption></figure>



The XF95 can be equipped with two engines rated at either 2,000 or 2,600 hp. The latter option enables a cruising speed of 37 knots and a top speed of 45 knots. Voodoo says there is also another, more powerful setup that results in a top speed of more than 50 knots. In terms of range, the vessel can cruise for 1,200 nautical miles at 30 knots or cover 3,500 nautical miles at eight knots. Owners can add a larger tank to increase the range or install a large solar array to generate clean, green power at sea.



With a beam of 31 feet and an interior volume of 245 GT, the XF95 offers nearly 5,400 square feet of space on board. The yard says the spacious living quarters are on par with yachts spanning 118 to 125 feet. The model is highly customisable, too: Owners can opt for an enclosed or open bridge and choose between several different layouts.



<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/2024/07/Voodoo_X952-1024x683.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234789684" style="width:840px;height:auto" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Voodoo_X952-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Voodoo_X952-300x200.jpg 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Voodoo_X952-768x512.jpg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Voodoo_X952-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Voodoo_X952-2048x1365.jpg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">A bird’s-eye view of the XF95. Image courtesy of Voodoo Yachts</figcaption></figure>



As standard, the yacht is outfitted with five guest staterooms and two crew cabins. One configuration has a full-beam owner’s suite in the bow of the lower deck, four en-suite guest cabins amidship, and a garage aft. The main deck features a large salon and dining area, while the upper deck showcases a plush lounge. Owners can add other interior features such as a sauna, gym, or home theatre.



Amenities also abound outdoors. The main deck is home to a dip pool, a lounge, and a swim platform, while the upper deck sports an alfresco dining area and the foredeck showcases another large lounge.



Marine magic, indeed.

catamaran

Voodoo Yachts

XF95

Yachts

This New 94-Foot Foiling Catamaran Can Fly Across the Seas at Over 50 Knots

The&nbsp;<a href="https://robbreport.com/tag/maldives/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Maldives</a>&nbsp;is already stacked with&nbsp;<a href="https://robbreport.com/travel/resorts/best-maldives-resorts-2871604/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">luxury resorts</a>—172 at the time of writing—but Atoll Estates is bringing something different to the South Asian archipelago nation.



The UAE-based company, founded by hospitality veterans Amit Majumder and Dmitry Bourtov, has designed an epic new destination with facilities that have never before graced the region.



Covering 500 hectares of a natural lagoon in the South Malé Atoll, <a href="https://atollestates.com/projektdelfin" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Zamani Islands</a> comprises eight islands, three individual <a href="https://robbreport.com/tag/resorts/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">resorts</a>, a collection of lavish private residences, and amenities galore. It will also be home to the first superyacht marina in the Maldives and the first medical spa in the country, Atoll Estates claims. To top it off, the company says that Zamani Islands will be the first resort in the region to run on 100 per cent renewable energy.



“It was our intention from the outset to conceive a resort with sustainability truly at its heart that will do good for both people and place,” Majumder and Bourtov said in a&nbsp;<a href="https://www.dovetail-agency.co.uk/blog/2024/01/29/blog-posts/atoll-estates-to-launch-zamani-islands-the-maldives-first-truly-integrated-resort/73-170/" rel="noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">statement</a>. “Within this framework, Zamani Islands will also set new standards for a lifestyle destination both within the Maldives and globally.”



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large is-resized is-style-default"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="683" src="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Zamani_Islands_Marina1-1024x683.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234789677" style="width:840px;height:auto" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Zamani_Islands_Marina1-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Zamani_Islands_Marina1-300x200.jpg 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Zamani_Islands_Marina1-768x512.jpg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Zamani_Islands_Marina1-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Zamani_Islands_Marina1-2048x1365.jpg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">The marina. Image courtesy of Atoll Estates.</figcaption></figure>



Designed in partnership with Dubai-based architectural firm Killa Design, the three resorts each offer different experiences for guests. Vibrant is about “experiential luxury,” Elegant is focused on “uber luxury,” and Dvnes exudes “youthful vibes.” Accommodation ranges from beautifully appointed apartments to splashy overwater villas.



Conveniently located 21 miles from the main international airport, Zamani Islands will also include private estates and mansions. (Atoll Estates says 14 residences are currently available for purchase off-plan.) Penned in partnership with Ukrainian studio YoDezeen, the beachfront abodes each feature four to eight bedrooms, sleek, contemporary décor, and the finest natural materials. You can also expect multiple private pools across different levels, a cinema, a spa, a wellness area, and a gym. In addition, each residence comes with a personal butler service and a berth at the marina. Owners will also have a full run of the resort’s amenities, including a yacht club, three spas, a convention centre, and 26 restaurants and bars. The highlight of the culinary offering will be the largest underwater restaurant in the Maldives.



Zamani Islands will have a strong focus on sustainability, too. The resort is designed to run on 100 per cent renewable energy and could eventually produce up to 50 per cent of its own food. Furthermore, Atoll Estates has carefully selected eco-friendly construction materials and has implemented a coral relocation and propagation programme. That means you can feel extra good during your stay.



The first part of Zamani Islands will open in spring 2026.



Click <a href="https://robbreport.com/travel/destinations/gallery/zamani-islands-maldives-1235774768/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">here</a> to see all the photos of Zamani Islands.

Atoll Estates

Maldives

Superyacht

superyacht marina

Zamani Islands

The Maldives Is Getting Its First Superyacht Marina

One man’s trash will soon be another man’s sailing&nbsp;<a href="https://robbreport.com/tag/catamaran/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">catamaran</a>.



German studio&nbsp;<a href="https://i-yacht.de/" rel="noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">iYacht</a>&nbsp;has been enlisted by German actor Daniel Roesner to design a 55-foot multihull with a focus on sustainability and circularity. Christened&nbsp;<a href="https://i-yacht.de/insights/huchu-55/" rel="noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">Hu’chu 55</a>, the new cat will be built from recycled materials and powered by an emissions-free propulsion system to reduce its environmental impact.



The name “Hu’chu” points to both Roesner’s roots and passions: “Hu” is the abbreviation of his mountainous hometown of Hunsrück, while “Chu” refers to a spot north of Malibu where he fell in love with the ocean and surfing. “I am not an engineer or scientist, but someone who truly fell in love with the water and the planet he lives on,” Roesner said in a statement. The actor tasked <a href="https://robbreport.com/tag/iyacht/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">iYacht</a> with creating a robust vessel on which he could explore the world, produce films, and conduct ocean research. “Daniel had a very ambitious vision, and we guided him in turning it into a feasible project,” explained iYacht CEO Udo A. Hafner. 



<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/2024/07/HuChu55_2-copy-1024x683.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234789477" style="width:840px;height:auto" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/HuChu55_2-copy-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/HuChu55_2-copy-300x200.jpg 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/HuChu55_2-copy-768x512.jpg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/HuChu55_2-copy-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/HuChu55_2-copy-2048x1365.jpg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">The cat will be equipped with two electric motors and a 100 kWh battery. Image courtesy of iYacht</figcaption></figure>



Roesner teamed up with a major aluminium manufacturer to develop a special material for the exterior. It is made from 90 per cent scrap aluminium sourced from discarded license plates, road signs, cosmetic cans, and other junk. With not a single pound of primary metal, the material has a far smaller carbon footprint than regular aluminium. The yacht will also incorporate natural fibres, reclaimed wood, and recycled cork. 



The green ethos extends to the propulsion system. Two electric motors will provide extra, emissions-free power if the wind doesn’t cut it. The battery pack, which has a capacity of more than 100 kWh, can be recharged by integrated solar panels or hydrogeneration to ensure true autonomy on the water. The clean, green energy will be used for everything, from growing vegetables in the garden amidship to powering the gear in the onboard film studio.&nbsp;



<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/2024/07/HuChu55_3-copy-683x1024.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234789480" style="width:840px;height:auto" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/HuChu55_3-copy-683x1024.jpg 683w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/HuChu55_3-copy-200x300.jpg 200w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/HuChu55_3-copy-768x1152.jpg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/HuChu55_3-copy-1024x1536.jpg 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/HuChu55_3-copy-1365x2048.jpg 1365w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/HuChu55_3-copy.jpg 1600w" sizes="(max-width: 683px) 100vw, 683px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">The exterior metal is made from 90 per cent scrap aluminium. Image courtesy of iYacht</figcaption></figure>



Hu’chu will be no slouch on the seas, either. The cat rivals an explorer yacht, with reinforced hulls that allow it to cruise in high and low latitudes. The rig and sail system also allows for quick and easy handling from both the helm position and the aft cockpit. Roesner plans to sail the globe and make documentaries about the world’s oceans. “I have a large circle of friends consisting of divers, free divers, scientists, and underwater filmmakers,” the actor said. “I would like to collaborate with them to implement various projects on topics such as environmental protection, research, and adventure.”



As for when the Hu’chu 55 will hit the water, the team is currently trying to find a shipyard with aluminium expertise to turn the dream yacht into a reality.

Daniel Roesner

environmental

explorer yacht

Hu’chu

iyacht

Luxury

reclaimed

recycle

Yacht

This New 55-Foot Sailing Catamaran Will Be Made From Scrap Metal and Reclaimed Wood

Who better to develop a&nbsp;<a href="https://robbreport.com/tag/superyacht/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">superyacht</a>&nbsp;for the next generation than an up-and-coming talent?



Italian designer <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/feed/update/urn:li:activity:7214674353337073664/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Davide Benaglia</a> has just unveiled an innovative 220-footer that caters to the needs of young digital natives. The industry newcomer developed the aptly named Hype-R for <a href="https://robbreport.com/tag/feadship/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Feadship</a>’s <a href="https://www.feadship.nl/press/feadship-announces-winner-of-the-ydoy-award#:~:text=The%20brief%20required%20the%20concepts,was%20up%20to%20the%20designer." target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Young Designer of the Year</a> Award. The entrants, all of whom were under 28 years of age, were asked to create “futuristic” vessels with environmental innovations, cutting-edge technology, and workable layouts. Benaglia didn’t win the competition—Pradipta R. Hakim of Indonesia scored top honours—but his <a href="https://robbreport.com/tag/concept/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">concept</a> is still an interesting one.



Hype-R showcases a sleek, minimalist exterior inspired by video-game controllers and other gear. The yacht also features flowing lines and dramatic curves that evoke a sports car. “My design language is strongly influenced by car designs, particularly by the renowned masters who have made history, such as Pininfarina and Giugiaro,” Benaglia said in a <a href="https://www.lurssen.com/en/new-build/young-designer/benaglia-2024/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">statement</a>. “Technological products also inspire my designs.”



<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/2024/07/HypeR_Superyacht1-copy-1024x683.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234789509" style="width:840px;height:auto" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/HypeR_Superyacht1-copy-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/HypeR_Superyacht1-copy-300x200.jpg 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/HypeR_Superyacht1-copy-768x512.jpg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/HypeR_Superyacht1-copy-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/HypeR_Superyacht1-copy-2048x1365.jpg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">The interior. Image courtesy of Davide Benaglia</figcaption></figure>



With a beam of nearly 37 feet and an interior volume of 1,300 GT, Hype-R offers ample space for relaxing and entertaining onboard. The layout has been meticulously designed to ensure that each space serves a specific function, according to Benaglia. The sundeck, for instance, is dedicated to the owner and includes a suite with a plush living area and a private study for remote working at sea. In addition, the yacht is equipped with two staterooms and two VIPs that can sleep up to eight guests.



The exterior has an array of distinct zones, too. The upper deck is ripe for chilling, with a dreamy sunset lounge and romantic arches. Conversely, the modular beach area aft can be used as a cinema, a discotheque, or a tranquil lounge by the water’s edge. The aft deck is also home to a striking, asymmetrical pool that cascades over two levels and fold-out platforms that open to create more space as needed.



<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/2024/07/HypeR_Superyacht5-copy-1024x683.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-1234789510" style="width:840px;height:auto" srcset="https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/HypeR_Superyacht5-copy-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/HypeR_Superyacht5-copy-300x200.jpg 300w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/HypeR_Superyacht5-copy-768x512.jpg 768w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/HypeR_Superyacht5-copy-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https://cms.robbreport.hk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/HypeR_Superyacht5-copy-2048x1365.jpg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">The aft decks. Image courtesy of Davide Benaglia</figcaption></figure>



Hype-R is, of course, replete with innovative features that will appeal to tech-savvy seafarers, such as state-of-the-art entertainment equipment and a high-tech hybrid propulsion system. The diesel-electric setup enables the yacht to reach a top speed of 19 knots and a cruising speed of 16 knots while reducing fuel consumption and emissions.



A superyacht for the next generation, indeed.

Davide Benaglia

Design

Feadship

This New 220-Foot Superyacht Has a Striking Asymmetrical Pool